Mark Wakefield

Wayne Rooney has urged Manchester United to make four more signings before the transfer deadline, identifying left-back, centre-back, central midfield and centre-forward as areas requiring reinforcement. He particularly supports a move for Arsenal’s versatile young player Myles Lewis-Skelly. Rooney also called on Marcus Rashford to improve his body language, work rate and attitude if he wants to remain at United, while saying he wants the forward to rediscover his form at Old Trafford rather than elsewhere.

Shakhtar Donetsk are reportedly considering Chelsea’s Stamford Bridge as the venue for their Champions League home matches after qualifying for the competition. The club have been unable to use Donbass Arena since Russia annexed Donetsk in 2014 and have instead played home fixtures across Ukraine and other European countries. Stamford Bridge is believed to be the leading option because of its capacity, Chelsea’s relationship with Shakhtar and London’s large Ukrainian community, although Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium and Fulham’s Craven Cottage were also considered. Shakhtar are expected to make an official announcement, while Chelsea have indicated that the arrangement would not be commercially motivated.

Lille coach Davide Ancelotti says he hopes Ayyoub Bouaddi remains at the club despite reported interest from Manchester City and Arsenal. The 18-year-old midfielder, valued by Lille at around €100 million, has attracted attention after impressive performances for Morocco and is reportedly viewed by City as a potential successor to Rodri. Lille chairman Oliver Létang reinforced the club’s demanding stance by comparing Bouaddi’s potential with recent high-value transfers.

Liverpool’s pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola could receive a boost after PSG signed Ferran Torres and moved closer to deals for Maghnes Akliouche and Mika Godts. The squad additions have fueled speculation that Barcola may be available, although PSG’s reported £140 million valuation would likely be too high for Liverpool. Meanwhile, Cody Gakpo is reportedly close to agreeing personal terms with Tottenham Hotspur, which would increase Liverpool’s need for attacking reinforcements.

Manchester United are interested in Leicester City midfielder Louis Page, who was omitted from Leicester’s League One opener against Notts County. Leicester manager Russell Martin said the absence was not linked to an imminent transfer and confirmed that the club had rejected an offer for the 18-year-old. Martin stressed that Leicester are not under pressure to sell and would only agree to a deal that benefits the player and club, while referencing his relationship with United director of football Jason Wilcox.

Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly close to agreeing a deal for Barcelona forward Ferran Torres. Liverpool, which has been negotiating with PSG over Bradley Barcola, could see the transfer as a boost if PSG becomes more willing to sell the France international. PSG is believed to value Barcola at £140 million, a fee Liverpool is not expected to pay, while manager Luis Enrique declined to discuss either player's future. Barcola remains linked with Liverpool and Arsenal and has been included in PSG's squad for the UEFA Super Cup.

Former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard said he offered Jeremy Clarkson ownership of his south-west London pub, The Brown Dog, at no upfront cost, on the condition that Coulthard would receive a share if Clarkson later made money. Clarkson declined, reportedly because the pub was too far from his home to operate sensibly. Clarkson already owns The Farmer’s Dog in Oxfordshire and continues to build his profile through Amazon’s Clarkson’s Farm.

Liverpool lost 3–2 to Monaco in Andoni Iraola’s first match at Anfield as manager. Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz impressed after giving Liverpool a two-goal lead, while young defender Ifeanyi Ndukwe also strengthened his case with a composed performance alongside Virgil van Dijk. Monaco responded through Aleksandr Golovin, Mika Biereth and Paris Brunner, exposing Liverpool’s recurring problem of losing intensity and defensive control late in matches, particularly after substitutions.

Ronald Araujo is set to join Liverpool from Barcelona on a season-long loan after completing a medical, with Liverpool holding a reported £47 million option to buy him permanently. Barcelona manager Hansi Flick praised the defender but said his style and desire for a fresh start contributed to the move. The transfer follows criticism and limited starts for Araujo last season, while Liverpool are dealing with multiple defensive injuries and absences ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

Álvaro Morata could leave Como for Atlanta United just two months after joining the Italian club permanently. The former Chelsea striker spent last season on loan at Como from AC Milan, scoring no goals in 26 appearances, although the team finished fourth in Serie A and qualified for the Champions League. Atlanta is seeking a striker and has also considered Romelu Lukaku, but Lukaku reportedly prefers a move to Fenerbahçe.

Middlesbrough striker Will Lankshear scored the only goal in a 1-0 Carabao Cup win over Wrexham, but became the first player affected by the EFL's new 10-second substitution rule. After taking too long to leave the pitch, Lankshear's replacement, Fin Cartwright, had to wait an additional minute before entering. Lankshear joined Middlesbrough from Tottenham in a deal worth about £10 million initially, potentially rising to £20 million, and manager Kim Hellberg praised his performance and development.

Liverpool’s prospects of signing Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola have reportedly improved after PSG moved toward a €40 million deal for Ajax winger Mika Godts, viewed as a possible replacement. PSG are also nearing an agreement for Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche, adding to speculation that Barcola could leave. Liverpool are reportedly preparing talks and hope to negotiate a fee closer to £100 million rather than PSG’s reported £140 million valuation.

Manchester United goalkeeper Altay Bayindir is reportedly close to joining Celta Vigo on loan. The 28-year-old Turkey international has made only 17 appearances since joining United from Fenerbahçe in 2023 and has fallen further down the goalkeeping order following Senne Lammens’s emergence and Karl Darlow’s arrival. Reports indicate Celta Vigo hope to announce the deal next week, with Bayindir expected to undergo a medical on Sunday or Monday and join the club’s training camp in Italy. United nevertheless included him in the squad for their preseason victory over Atlético Madrid.

Chelsea were charged with 74 breaches of FA rules relating mainly to agent regulations and third-party investment during Roman Abramovich’s ownership. The FA initially considered a 15-point deduction, reduced it to 10 points because of the club’s self-reporting and cooperation, and a regulatory commission then imposed a suspended six-point deduction and a £10 million fine. Chelsea’s appeal overturned the points sanction and replaced it with a suspended two-window transfer ban, valid until June 30, 2027. The fine will be invested in grassroots football, while Chelsea says the FA process concludes its outstanding regulatory proceedings.

Bruno Guimaraes' agent, Alexis Malavolta, intensified speculation about Arsenal signing both the Newcastle midfielder and Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr by sharing an image of the players together for Brazil. Reports suggest Arsenal could pay around £77 million for Guimaraes, while the club remains interested in Vinicius despite indications that he may stay in Madrid. Guimaraes' future has become more uncertain following Eddie Howe's departure from Newcastle, but no deal for either player has been confirmed.

Newcastle United confirmed that Eddie Howe has resigned as head coach after nearly five years. Howe led the club to two Champions League qualifications and its first domestic trophy in 70 years, but the team later struggled to a 12th-place Premier League finish amid major player departures and transfer uncertainty. Several members of his coaching and performance staff are also leaving. Howe said he was stepping away after personal reflection to recharge, while thanking the club, ownership, staff, players and supporters. Matthias Jaissle, formerly of Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli, is expected to succeed him.

CONCACAF and its 41 member associations rejected Gianni Infantino’s proposal to establish FIFA Forward Enterprise and sell interests in the World Cup and other FIFA competitions to private investors. They criticised the lack of due process, the short decision timeline and the absence of proper review by FIFA governance bodies, arguing that existing reserves should fund football development. UEFA and its 55 associations went further, threatening to withdraw from all FIFA competitions until the proposal is abandoned and FIFA provides binding assurances against private ownership. UEFA argued that investor demands could place commercial returns above the interests of national teams, leagues, clubs, players and supporters.

UEFA and its 55 national associations, including England, unanimously backed a boycott of all FIFA competitions if Gianni Infantino’s proposal to sell private ownership stakes in competitions such as the men’s and women’s World Cups proceeds. UEFA condemned the plan as secretive, coercive and incompatible with football’s interests, while the FA, Wales and Scotland supported the position. CONCACAF rejected the proposal but stopped short of endorsing a boycott. Infantino defended the scheme as an optional way to generate investment and expand FIFA’s development programs, while the UK government backed UEFA’s opposition.

Alan Shearer has thanked Eddie Howe for transforming Newcastle United, guiding the club from relegation danger to European football and its 2025 Carabao Cup triumph over Liverpool at Wembley. Shearer said he was surprised by Howe’s expected departure three weeks before the new season and speculated that frustration over the possible sale of key players may have contributed. Howe’s exit follows a 4-1 pre-season defeat to Bristol City, with Matthias Jaissle expected to replace him, while Bruno Guimaraes’s future remains uncertain amid reported interest from Arsenal.

British para-cyclist Daphne Schrager has received a two-year ban after an out-of-competition test detected a trace amount of Ligandrol. Schrager denies ever knowingly using a banned substance and argued that environmental contamination from a gym or shared home caused the positive result. A National Anti-Doping Panel tribunal accepted that she had not intentionally used Ligandrol and was not reckless, but upheld the ban because she could not establish the precise source of the contamination. Backdated to June 2, 2025, the ban ends on June 1, 2027, leaving open the possibility of competing at the 2028 Paralympics. Schrager, who won a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, described the mental-health impact as severe and said she plans to return in 2027.

Lewis Hamilton was given a three-place grid penalty after FIA stewards ruled that he unnecessarily impeded Oscar Piastri during Hungarian Grand Prix qualifying. Hamilton, who had qualified second for Ferrari behind McLaren's Lando Norris, will start fifth. Kimi Antonelli also received a penalty and will start seventh despite qualifying fourth. Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur accepted that the team warned Hamilton too late, while Piastri criticized Hamilton for failing to check his mirrors.

Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in extra time to win the 2026 World Cup, but post‑match incidents involving Argentina players drew widespread criticism. Leandro Paredes was sent off for violent conduct, and the Argentina squad turned their backs during Spain’s medal ceremony, prompting accusations of disrespect from fans. Ferran Torres, who scored the winning goal, and coach Luis de la Fuente expressed pride in Spain’s achievement, while Lionel Messi was seen in tears during what is expected to be his final World Cup appearance.

Argentina’s players refused to return a Falklands-related banner to the fan who smuggled it into their World Cup semifinal win over England, prompting political backlash and a FIFA investigation. The UK government condemned the display, while the White House defended it as protected expression. The banner’s creator, Santiago, said the Argentine Football Association told him the squad wanted to keep it. Argentina will face Spain in the World Cup final.

Spain forward Borja Iglesias criticised Donald Trump for lacking fundamental values but said he will follow protocol and shake the US President’s hand if Spain win the World Cup. Iglesias expressed discomfort but noted he wants to avoid creating controversy. The article also covers Joan Capdevila’s denied US visa and his appeal for help, while noting Iglesias’ past activism on social issues.

Argentina’s President Javier Milei will not attend the World Cup final against Spain due to superstitions he has maintained throughout the tournament, opting to stay in his Buenos Aires residence where he has watched every victory. Despite planned attendance by Donald Trump and other world leaders, Milei believes changing his routine risks jinxing Argentina’s success. The article highlights his long-standing political alignment with Trump, including a major currency swap tied to Milei’s electoral win, and notes Argentina’s historical presidential avoidance of World Cup matches due to superstition.

Lewis Hamilton recovered to qualify fifth for the Belgian Grand Prix after damaging his Ferrari in a practice crash that forced a rapid repair effort. He said the car felt weaker than before the incident and doubted he could match Mercedes’ superior straight-line speed. Charles Leclerc also felt more was possible but said yellow flags hindered his final lap, and both drivers agreed Mercedes hold a clear power advantage heading into the race.

Former Premier League referee Graham Scott criticised Harry Kane’s persistent questioning of officials during England’s 2-1 World Cup semifinal loss to Argentina, arguing that Kane’s behaviour irritates referees and can influence close decisions against him. Scott urged England players to better understand referee tendencies and noted that Argentina were more effective in their interactions with officials. England conceded a second-half lead after goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez, ending their tournament run ahead of a third-place match against France.

FIFA is reviewing Argentina players’ display of a Falklands-related banner following their World Cup semi-final win over England, prompting criticism from the Falkland Islands Government and calls for investigation from the UK. Thomas Tuchel is reported to have rejected claims he instructed England to defend their early lead against Argentina, while the FA continues to support him. England’s Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham issued messages to supporters after the team’s semi-final exit. Slavko Vincic was appointed referee for the upcoming final between Spain and Argentina, becoming emotional upon receiving the news, and preparations continue ahead of the tournament’s concluding matches in the United States.

Manchester United continue to explore midfield options despite adding Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Karl Darlow, with Eduardo Camavinga emerging as an internal discussion point according to Fabrizio Romano. Camavinga is reported to prefer staying at Real Madrid, making any deal difficult, while Manu Kone is also under consideration. Reports suggest Camavinga could be available for around £43 million. Doubts remain over a previously agreed move for Atalanta’s Ederson following United’s recent spending.

FIFA requires broadcasters at the 2026 World Cup to show celebrities and officials, including Gianni Infantino, during matches. Infantino’s frequent on‑screen presence coincides with his bid for a third term as FIFA president, already backed by three continental confederations. The tournament has faced controversies involving US handling of Iran’s squad, VAR errors, and Donald Trump’s interventions. High‑profile attendees such as David Beckham and Brad Pitt have been regularly featured at games, with the final set to take place at MetLife Stadium.

Manchester United activated Youri Tielemans’ £35 million release clause to sign the Belgian midfielder from Aston Villa, making him their second major addition after Andrey Santos. The move follows the departure of Casemiro and an injury to Manuel Ugarte, prompting a midfield rebuild under Michael Carrick. Club director Jason Wilcox praised Tielemans’ quality and consistency. United continue to explore further midfield options, including Ederson, Aurelien Tchouameni and Alex Scott, as preparations continue for the new season.

Manchester United are planning at least three additional signings after completing deals for Andrey Santos and Karl Darlow. Youri Tielemans is a key target, though uncertainty surrounds a previously agreed move for Atalanta midfielder Ederson. The club may seek a midfielder, left winger and forward once the Tielemans deal is finalised, though further additions could be paused while outgoings are evaluated. Pre-season preparations include friendlies across Finland, Norway, Sweden and Ireland before opening the Premier League season against Hull City.

Manchester United are close to signing Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa by activating his £35 million release clause, with the Belgium midfielder favouring the move despite Villa offering a new contract. The club has paused a previously agreed deal for Atalanta’s Ederson due to a knee issue, leaving the transfer unlikely for now but potentially revisitable later in the summer. Tielemans’ arrival strengthens United’s midfield following departures and injuries as the club continues its broader recruitment efforts.

Thomas Tuchel voiced frustration despite England’s extra‑time victory over Norway that secured a place in the World Cup semi‑finals, criticising the team for mistakes and calling the win fortunate. Jude Bellingham’s two goals overturned Andreas Schjelderup’s opener, with Tuchel praising individual players but rejecting suggestions of a mentality problem. Bellingham defended the team’s effort, emphasising perseverance in difficult conditions. England now prepare to face Switzerland or Argentina in the semi‑final in Atlanta.

A Norway goal against England in the World Cup quarter-final was overturned after VAR identified a push by Erling Haaland on Elliot Anderson before a corner, triggering a new law covering fouls committed while the ball is out of play. Referee Clement Turpin reviewed the incident and ordered the corner to be retaken. Analyst Christina Unkel anticipated the decision based on Haaland’s clear extension of the arm. The match was tied after first‑half goals from Andreas Schjelderup and Jude Bellingham, with the ruling underscoring updated tournament officiating protocols.

Michael McIntyre described an awkward brief encounter with FIFA president Gianni Infantino during a World Cup 2026 match while discussing recent controversy surrounding FIFA’s decision to lift Folarin Balogun’s suspension following intervention from Donald Trump. The incident occurred amid ongoing criticism as the USA exited the tournament after losing to Belgium. McIntyre recounted the moment on Netflix’s Rest is Football podcast with Gary Lineker and Joe Cole, joking that he could only utter the word “FIFA” when meeting Infantino.

Manchester United are reportedly considering a move for Nottingham Forest full-back Neco Williams, who previously chose Liverpool over United as a youth player. United’s main transfer focus has been midfield, but defensive reinforcements are also being explored, with Newcastle United similarly interested. Williams’ long-term Forest contract creates uncertainty over his future amid speculation of a possible extension. The 25-year-old has become an important figure at Forest since joining in 2022, but his situation has prompted rumours of a potential summer move.

Mohamed Salah vowed to work toward greater international success for Egypt following their 2026 World Cup exit to Argentina. After losing 3-2 despite leading 2-0, Salah urged supporters to maintain confidence in the team and promised a renewed push for improvement. Controversy over refereeing decisions, including a ruled‑out Egypt goal and disputes over Argentina’s winner, led manager Hossam Hassan to express frustration over perceived unfairness. Salah finished the tournament with one goal and two assists, while Argentina advanced to face Switzerland.

Manchester United is moving ahead with plans for a new 100,000‑seat stadium located near Old Trafford, emphasizing that increased future revenues will justify additional borrowing despite the club’s existing £1.3 billion debt. Stadium development CEO Collette Roche stated that all funding options except public financing remain under consideration, including debt, equity, investors and naming rights. Cost estimates are still uncertain, and the club stresses the project must remain financially sensible while supporting competitive success. Cooperation with Trafford Council will focus on infrastructure, while supporter consultations will shape final design decisions.

Manchester United are close to completing deals for Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Ederson from Atalanta while also pursuing West Ham’s Crysencio Summerville as their top forward target. Talks have begun with West Ham, who may seek around £50 million following their relegation, and United may use funds from a potential Marcus Rashford sale. Liverpool and Tottenham are also interested in Summerville as transfer activity accelerates after the World Cup.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani referenced Egypt’s controversial 3-2 World Cup defeat to Argentina while promoting a new public transit initiative, echoing frustrations over a VAR decision that ruled out an Egyptian goal. The Egyptian FA filed an official complaint against referee Francois Letexier, citing inconsistencies and a lack of transparency, while head coach Hossam Hassan claimed the match favored Argentina and Lionel Messi. The dispute has intensified global debate over officiating standards at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Arsenal have a clearer understanding of the fee required to sign Bruno Guimaraes after reports that a bid of around £75 million could advance negotiations with Newcastle, who previously rejected lower offers. Guimaraes has informed Newcastle that he wants to join Arsenal, though the club is reportedly surprised that sporting director Andrea Berta has not yet made formal contact. Newcastle’s willingness to sell remains uncertain following major recent departures, while Arsenal aim to strengthen their midfield as they prepare to defend their Premier League title.

Manchester United are considering an £80 million move for Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott after missing out on Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes in deals worth a combined £201 million. Michael Carrick is preparing for his first full season as manager and continues to target midfield reinforcements following Casemiro’s departure. Bournemouth may seek to extend Scott’s contract with a release clause, while Arsenal and Liverpool are also monitoring the player. United have already secured a deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson as part of their summer rebuild.

Argentina overturned a 2-0 deficit to defeat Egypt 3-2 in the World Cup round of 16, with late goals from Cristian Romero, Lionel Messi and Enzo Fernandez securing progress to the quarter-finals. Messi, who had a penalty saved earlier, scored a crucial equaliser and was visibly emotional after the match. The result keeps Argentina’s title defence alive and moves Messi ahead in the Golden Boot race, while pundits debated whether he should remain the team's penalty-taker.

Gary Neville drew laughter from fellow ITV pundits during Argentina’s World Cup match against Egypt when he jokingly suggested Donald Trump as an alternative penalty taker after Lionel Messi’s missed spot‑kick. The discussion highlighted doubts about Messi’s penalty record and the difficulty of challenging high‑status players on such decisions. Argentina later overturned a 2‑0 deficit with goals from Cristian Romero, Messi and Enzo Fernandez to advance to the quarter‑finals.

Arsenal have reportedly reached an agreement to sign former Leeds United goalkeeper Illan Meslier on a free transfer, pending a medical. The move is expected to push young keeper Tommy Setford out on loan as Mikel Arteta reshapes squad depth behind David Raya and Kepa Arrizabalaga. Meslier’s departure from Leeds follows limited playing time and the expiration of his contract. Arsenal continue to assess additional transfer targets including Morgan Rogers, Bradley Barcola and Eli Junior Kroupi, while Leandro Trossard is linked with a potential move to Besiktas as he enters the final year of his contract.

Manchester United has introduced three new core values—badge, bravery and spirit—as part of a rebrand overseen by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos. The shift accompanies preparations for Michael Carrick’s first full season as manager, with the club returning to the Champions League and seeking to challenge domestically. United continue restructuring behind the scenes while progressing in the transfer market, including an agreement to sign Atalanta’s Ederson. Pre-season will include matches across several European countries as the team readies for the new Premier League campaign.

Severe thunderstorms forecast in Miami threaten delays to England’s World Cup quarter-final against Norway due to FIFA lightning regulations. England’s previous match in Mexico was already delayed by similar weather, and Jordan Henderson has been ruled out of the tournament after injuring his arm during celebrations, remaining in Mexico City for treatment.

Multiple Wimbledon matches were halted after several spectators fell ill in extreme heat, prompting medical interventions and short delays. Flavio Cobolli assisted one affected fan by providing water before stewards led her away. Broadcasters noted temperatures above 30 degrees, with heat affecting both spectators and play scheduling.

Updates cover World Cup developments including Cristiano Ronaldo starting for Portugal against Spain, statements by Gianni Infantino and Donald Trump regarding Folarin Balogun’s overturned suspension, and ongoing injury concerns for England’s Jordan Henderson as the tournament advances toward the quarter-finals.

England reached the World Cup quarter-finals with a 3-2 win over Mexico despite Jarell Quansah’s red card, while Jordan Henderson suffered a severe wrist injury expected to end his tournament. Jude Bellingham scored twice and Harry Kane added a penalty as England held off a late Mexican push. Controversy grew over FIFA’s reversal of Folarin Balogun’s red-card suspension after reported calls from U.S. President Donald Trump, prompting objections from UEFA and the Belgian FA. UK officials also intervened earlier over England’s match scheduling. Additional reactions included statements from Gianni Infantino, criticism from Sepp Blatter, fan celebrations, and Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa announcing his retirement.

Ruben Amorim described his new role as AC Milan manager as a greater challenge than his previous spell at Manchester United, expressing pride and determination as he begins his tenure. After being dismissed by United following mixed results, he arrives in Milan with his full backroom staff and a three‑year contract. Amorim emphasised the expectation to win at Milan, where the club is seeking to rebound after missing out on Champions League qualification last season.

Tottenham Hotspur completed the £85 million signing of Portugal midfielder Mateus Fernandes from West Ham, beating Manchester United to the transfer as part of Roberto De Zerbi’s summer rebuild. Fernandes expressed excitement about joining Spurs, while De Zerbi highlighted his qualities and fit within the team's style. The 21-year-old moves after West Ham’s relegation following a single season with the club. Tottenham continue preparations for preseason matches in Australia and New Zealand and may pursue further signings, with Sandro Tonali and Savinho among potential targets.

England came from behind to beat DR Congo 2-1 after a late Harry Kane brace, with Declan Rice reassuring fans his substitution was precautionary. DR Congo manager Sebastien Desabre learned of his father’s death immediately after the match. Belgium overturned a two-goal deficit to defeat Senegal 3-2 in extra time, sealed by a Youri Tielemans penalty after a VAR review, while Senegal’s Pape Gueye announced a boycott of the national team. The United States beat Bosnia and Herzegovina 2-0 despite a red card to Folarin Balogun, ending a long winless World Cup run against European teams and setting up a last-16 clash with Belgium.

The United States advanced to the World Cup Round of 16 with a 2-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina, despite Folarin Balogun being sent off following a VAR review for a challenge on Tarik Muharemovic. Mauricio Pochettino strongly disputed the red card, insisting the contact was accidental, while Christian Pulisic and Malik Tillman highlighted the team’s resilience in securing victory with ten men. Balogun faces possible additional suspension from FIFA ahead of the upcoming match against Belgium.

Folarin Balogun scored for the United States against Bosnia and Herzegovina at the World Cup and celebrated with LeBron James' signature gesture, prompting a supportive message from the NBA star. His first goal was disallowed for offside, but he later scored again before being sent off early in the second half following a VAR review of a challenge on Tarik Muharemovic. The red card rules him out of the United States' last‑16 match against Belgium.

Belgium advanced to the World Cup last 16 with a 3-2 comeback win over Senegal after overturning a 2-0 deficit and securing victory through a late extra‑time penalty converted by Youri Tielemans. The decision, awarded via VAR after a challenge by Lamine Camara, sparked anger among Senegal’s players, leading to delays as they protested around the review monitor and penalty spot. The result eliminated Senegal and set Belgium up for a match against the United States in the next round.

Tim Henman says he plans to watch England’s World Cup round‑of‑32 match against DR Congo on ITV even while working as a BBC Wimbledon commentator. England advanced from their group under Thomas Tuchel and could face Mexico next if they progress. Several major nations have already exited the tournament, and future opponents may include Brazil, Norway or their star players. An advertisement promotes Sky Glass as a football‑focused TV upgrade.

Rayan Cherki appeared to briefly ignore Didier Deschamps after France’s 3-0 World Cup win over Sweden, creating an awkward post-match moment before offering a short greeting. Cherki, who entered late as a substitute, hopes for more minutes as France prepare to face Paraguay in the last 16. Deschamps highlighted the squad’s unity following his recent return after his mother’s death and stressed the need to maintain focus for the upcoming knockout match.

Piero Hincapie was sent off during Ecuador’s World Cup loss to Mexico after covering his mouth while speaking to Santiago Gimenez, breaching a new FIFA rule designed to curb abusive or discriminatory language. The red card, confirmed by VAR, made him the second player penalised under the regulation after Miguel Almiron. Mexico advanced 2-0 with goals from Julian Quinones and Raul Jimenez. Reactions from fans and pundit Jobi McAnuff supported the rule’s intention to address potential verbal misconduct. Ecuador exited the tournament, and Hincapie will return to Arsenal following his recent permanent transfer.

David Beckham drew attention in Wimbledon's Royal Box by enthusiastically joining a Mexican wave during Jannik Sinner’s five‑set win over Miromir Kecmanovic, countering Andrew Castle’s suggestion that the wave typically fades near the dignitaries. Beckham attended with family and other well‑known figures, and his proximity to Katherine Jenkins resurfaced interest in a past leaked email. The piece also notes his recent knighthood and includes promotional ticket information.

PSG are unwilling to sell Bradley Barcola despite Liverpool’s long-standing interest, placing a valuation above £116 million and signalling intent to keep him through the summer. Liverpool’s attempt to strengthen their wide options is further complicated by Yan Diomande’s preference to join PSG. The club is exploring alternative targets, including Yankuba Minteh, Said El Mala and Matias Fernandez-Pardo, while having already completed the signing of Victor Munoz.

Danny Simpson has ended his retirement to join UAE Second Division side Arabian Falcons as a player-coach, reuniting with Ravel Morrison and working under manager Jonjo Shelvey. The club, co-owned by Jason Puncheon, aims for promotion after narrowly missing out last season. Shelvey and Puncheon highlight Simpson’s experience and leadership as key to strengthening the squad for a successful campaign.

Gary Lineker revealed he once recommended Emma Hayes to Leicester City for their managerial vacancy following relegation, praising her coaching ability and potential impact. Hayes, now leading the U.S. women’s national team and working as an ITV World Cup pundit, responded that club owners must answer why such opportunities are rare for women, noting her extensive experience coaching men within her staff. Leicester ultimately chose other managers, including Russell Martin for the upcoming season.

England prepare to face DR Congo in the World Cup round of 32, with Alan Shearer warning that Thomas Tuchel’s side may again struggle to break down a defensive opponent similar to Panama and Ghana. Shearer highlights key performances from Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Elliot Anderson and Marc Guehi while cautioning that England must limit defensive lapses as the tournament progresses. Other round‑of‑32 surprises include the Netherlands losing to Morocco and Germany being knocked out by Paraguay, while Brazil and Canada have secured last‑16 places.

Moises Caicedo has been named Ecuador’s new captain during the World Cup, replacing Enner Valencia ahead of a round‑of‑32 match against Mexico. Ecuador advanced after a decisive 2‑1 win over Germany following earlier struggles in the group stage. Caicedo recently wore the armband during that victory and has previous captaincy experience with Chelsea. A potential matchup with England awaits should Ecuador progress.

Manchester City appointed Enzo Maresca as their new manager following Pep Guardiola’s departure, finalizing the move after reaching a confidential settlement with Chelsea. Chelsea released a detailed statement explaining that Maresca resigned abruptly in December 2025 to pursue the City job, causing disruption during a disappointing season. Maresca acknowledged the disruption and apologised while expressing excitement about returning to City. Chelsea confirmed compensation agreements and voiced confidence in new manager Xabi Alonso.