Neil Docking

Arsenal are preparing to begin their Premier League title defence against Coventry City after signing Bruno Guimaraes, Ezri Konsa and Christos Tzolis. Rio Ferdinand praised the £51 million Konsa deal as an “absolute steal” because of the defender’s reliability and versatility. Arsenal are also reportedly considering a swap involving Gabriel Martinelli and Juventus winger Kenan Yildiz, whose valuation exceeds £60 million, although the proposal would require extensive negotiations and potentially additional funds.

Cody Gakpo has reportedly agreed personal terms to move from Liverpool to Tottenham, although the transfer still requires agreement between the clubs. His potential departure could help Liverpool pursue Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, whose reported asking price of at least £145 million has made negotiations difficult. Tottenham are rebuilding after narrowly avoiding relegation and have already spent heavily, while Liverpool have added Victor Munoz and may give Rio Ngumoha a larger role.

Football supporters are warned that flares, throwing objects, entering the pitch, discriminatory chanting, disorder and entering without a ticket can result in arrest, prosecution or a football banning order. Olliers Solicitors says 2,460 banning orders are currently in force and argues that laws originally aimed at hooliganism are increasingly affecting ordinary, particularly younger, fans. Criminal defence solicitor Laura Baumanis is calling for a government review, citing potential criminal records, travel restrictions and employment consequences for relatively minor incidents.

Manchester United lost 4-2 to AC Milan in their pre-season finale after twice surrendering the lead. Harry Maguire opened the scoring from a Bruno Fernandes corner, but Milan equalized through Samuel Chukwueze after defensive mistakes. Fernandes then missed another penalty before Patrick Dorgu restored United's advantage, only for Alphadjo Cisse, Goncalo Ramos and Ruben Loftus-Cheek to complete Milan's comeback. Marcus Rashford made a lively return from the bench and was rated United's best substitute, while Luke Shaw struggled and Fernandes was criticized for his missed penalty.

AC Milan defeated Manchester United 4-2 in a pre-season friendly in Poland, overcoming two United leads after Harry Maguire and Patrick Dorgu scored. Samuel Chukwueze, Alphadjo Cisse, Goncalo Ramos and Ruben Loftus-Cheek scored for Milan, while Bruno Fernandes missed a penalty. Ruben Amorim, facing his former club and successor Michael Carrick, secured his first Milan win ahead of the Serie A season. Marcus Rashford returned to the United lineup after 612 days, but United's defensive weaknesses remained the dominant concern.

Liverpool have reduced their asking price for Curtis Jones after prolonged negotiations with Inter Milan, reportedly agreeing to a fee of about €35 million (£30 million) after previously valuing him at £35 million. Jones is entering the final year of his contract, and Liverpool are under pressure to generate transfer income after several departures on free transfers. Stefan Bajcetic and Calvin Ramsay could also leave, while Liverpool attempt to strengthen the squad. New signings Ronald Araujo and Victor Munoz have arrived, but talks with Paris Saint-Germain for winger Bradley Barcola remain stalled, despite manager Andoni Iraola identifying the position as a priority.

Arsenal are reportedly in negotiations with Bayer Leverkusen to sign former Liverpool defender Jarell Quansah as they seek defensive cover following William Saliba's injury setback. Leverkusen are reluctant to sell and would reportedly demand significantly more than the £30 million they paid for Quansah. Liverpool previously had a £64 million buy-back clause, though it has expired, while a potential option could fall to £52 million next summer. Quansah has impressed in Germany after making 44 appearances and scoring five goals last season.

Liverpool are seeking attacking and defensive reinforcements before the new Premier League season under manager Andoni Iraola. The club has reportedly cooled its interest in Ibrahim Mbaye after deciding that a combined deal for Mbaye and Bradley Barcola would cost about £171 million, while Barcola's future at Paris Saint-Germain remains uncertain. Liverpool and Arsenal are also heading to a tribunal over compensation for 16-year-old England youth international Vincent Joseph, who moved to Arsenal after rejecting Liverpool's scholarship offer.

Liverpool have completed the season-long loan signing of Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo, with a £47 million option to buy, giving manager Andoni Iraola additional cover at centre-back and right-back amid several injuries. The club is also in direct talks with Paris Saint-Germain over winger Bradley Barcola, who has reportedly agreed personal terms, although PSG continue to demand £145 million. Liverpool have already signed Jeremy Jacquet and Victor Munoz, while Alexis Mac Allister has returned to training following Argentina's World Cup final defeat.

Liverpool are reportedly negotiating with Paris Saint-Germain over winger Bradley Barcola, although PSG could demand around £140m–£145m. PSG’s progress toward signing Monaco winger Maghnes Akliouche may improve Liverpool’s chances of securing Barcola. Liverpool are also facing defensive problems after Joe Gomez suffered a muscle injury and Jeremy Jacquet joined him on the sidelines, leaving inexperienced centre-backs covering in pre-season while Virgil van Dijk returns to training. Curtis Jones remains linked with Inter Milan, though the clubs are apart on his valuation.

Arsenal are pursuing Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr amid stalled contract-renewal talks and reports that he wants wages comparable to Kylian Mbappe's. A deal would likely require Arsenal to break their transfer record and make Vinicius the club's highest earner. Separately, Arsenal are demanding at least £15 million for Fabio Vieira, while Hamburger SV reportedly wants to pay about £8.5 million; Hamburg chief Eric Huwer says the club will move on to another target if Arsenal do not agree.

Manchester United have completed the signing of 20-year-old goalkeeper Kit Margetson from Swansea City, making him Michael Carrick’s fifth summer acquisition. Margetson joins after a loan spell at Connah’s Quay Nomads, where he kept 10 clean sheets and helped secure European qualification. United are also monitoring midfield targets, including Bournemouth’s Alex Scott, but have reportedly withdrawn from the race after Bournemouth rejected Chelsea’s £64 million opening bid and demanded more than £70 million. Scott has declined a new Bournemouth contract, while Chelsea are considering a second offer. United are additionally linked with Manu Koné, Aurélien Tchouaméni and Carlos Baleba.

Daily Star sports writer Neil Docking introduces a weekly Name the Football Star quiz for Star Gold subscribers. Readers must identify five footballers using only their Wikipedia senior-career club records, appearances and goals, without clues about nationality or position. The feature highlights a former Liverpool player and other footballers associated with top-flight clubs, and invites readers to share their scores and return for future quizzes.

Arsenal are reportedly exploring moves for Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr and Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola. Vinicius has 12 months remaining on his contract and is seeking a salary of about £17 million net per year, though reports suggest he still prefers to remain in Madrid. Barcola has reportedly rejected a contract extension and may want to leave PSG, but is not expected to force a transfer; PSG are believed to value him at £140 million. Arsenal have already signed Christos Tzolis for £34 million and are planning further attacking reinforcements under Mikel Arteta.

Bradley Barcola has reportedly rejected Paris Saint-Germain’s latest contract proposal but will not force a move, leaving his future and a potential £140 million transfer uncertain. Liverpool are interested in the winger as a possible replacement for Mohamed Salah, although Barcola has also reportedly rejected Chelsea. Liverpool have suffered a defensive setback after new signing Ifeanyi Ndukwe was ruled ineligible to play this season because he does not qualify for a UK work permit, making a loan move likely amid injuries and departures in the back line.

Manchester United have begun formal talks with Roma to sign £51m-rated France midfielder Manu Kone, moving ahead of Liverpool and Arsenal in the transfer battle. Kone’s standout World Cup displays, including displacing Aurelien Tchouameni in France’s midfield, have driven his rising valuation as Roma seek player sales despite qualifying for the Champions League. United, already having spent £85m on Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, aim to further strengthen their midfield and consider Kone a priority acquisition. Arsenal remain interested but are also pursuing Bruno Guimaraes, who is reportedly willing to leave Newcastle.

Liverpool intensify transfer efforts as Andoni Iraola seeks to strengthen the right flank following Mohamed Salah’s departure and ongoing issues at right-back. Jason McAteer urges reinforcements in both wide and full-back positions, with high-profile targets such as Yan Diomande and Bradley Barcola linked, though PSG reportedly lead the Diomande chase. Liverpool secure a youth signing by acquiring 14-year-old centre-back Isaiah Bryan from West Brom for a compensation fee of around £200,000, beating Aston Villa to the prospect.

Manchester United continue their summer rebuild under Michael Carrick after completing three signings and preparing for further additions. A planned £38m move for Atalanta midfielder Ederson collapsed due to an issue discovered during his medical, leading the player to sign a new contract with the Italian club. Defender Tyler Fredricson is close to leaving United, with Celtic and continental clubs among potential destinations as he seeks regular playing time.

England’s World Cup run ended in a 2-1 semi-final defeat to Argentina after late goals overturned Anthony Gordon’s opener, sparking criticism of Thomas Tuchel’s defensive substitutions. Jude Bellingham clashed with Valentin Barco after the match, while Argentina faced scrutiny for displaying a Falklands-themed political banner. Lionel Messi avoided punishment for an alleged stamp before Argentina’s winner, angering England fans. Jordan Pickford drew attention for an obscene celebration and later being mocked by Argentina players. Despite criticism, Tuchel retains FA support ahead of Euro 2028.

Jude Bellingham showed visible frustration after Argentina equalised in England’s World Cup semi-final, with replays appearing to show him blaming Jordan Pickford for conceding from distance. Gary Neville echoed the criticism, calling the shot saveable and highlighting earlier handling errors. Roy Keane instead praised Enzo Fernandez’s strike and anticipated Lautaro Martinez’s later winner, crediting Argentina’s quality and Lionel Messi’s influence as England exited the tournament 2-1.

Alan Shearer explains why he rejected a return from international retirement to play for England at the 2002 World Cup, citing long-term injury issues and the impact that additional travel and matches would have had on his body and club career. Despite strong goal-scoring form, he felt resuming England duty would risk worsening persistent knee and ankle problems. Shearer reflects that being asked to return affirmed his original 2000 retirement decision and compares the risks of returning to international play to Manuel Neuer’s recent struggles after reversing his own retirement.

A 16-year-old Argentine tennis prodigy, Luisana Schönberger, was killed along with the 20-year-old driver, Renzo Retamozo, in a high‑speed crash in Eldorado City, Misiones, following celebrations of Argentina’s World Cup quarter-final win. Their Volkswagen Golf struck a Toyota Corolla before hitting a tree, leaving three other passengers injured, one critically. Police are investigating whether the vehicles were participating in an illegal street race. Tributes were issued by her tennis club, school and the Argentine Tennis Association, and a third vehicle has been seized as the inquiry continues.

England prepare to face Argentina in the World Cup semi-final as Spain beat France 2-0 to reach the final. Thomas Tuchel confirms Declan Rice is fit, while England players downplay pressure. Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni urges focus on football amid historical tensions. Severe weather threatens travel delays in Atlanta. Didier Deschamps criticizes the referee and plans to step down after France’s play‑off, while Kylian Mbappe blames tactical shortcomings. ITV issues an on‑air apology to Patrick Vieira. FIFA plans an extended halftime show for the final, exceeding allowed limits.

Manchester United accelerate their midfield rebuild under new manager Michael Carrick, securing a £50m signing of Andrey Santos from Chelsea after the player cited Carrick’s influence on his decision. The club moves closer to activating a £36m release clause for Aston Villa’s Youri Tielemans, whose Premier League experience is valued. A previously agreed deal for Atalanta’s Ederson stalls after he fails a medical due to a knee issue, leaving his future uncertain as United consider renegotiating terms.

England prepares to face Argentina in the World Cup semi-finals amid concerns over Declan Rice’s recent illness, criticism of referee Ismail Elfath, and controversy sparked by former Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy’s remarks about the French national team. Alexi Lalas publicly taunts England while acknowledging the squad’s strength. France and Spain gear up for their own semi-final, with French players responding to questions on team diversity and tactics. The UK government is considering a conditional bank holiday should England win the tournament.

Supporters argue that Lautaro Martinez should miss Argentina’s World Cup semi-final against England after celebrating his goal by climbing into the crowd while already on a yellow card, an action they insist warrants another booking under IFAB rules. Fans also criticised refereeing and VAR decisions in Argentina’s win over Switzerland, including the controversial second yellow card issued to Breel Embolo, which Switzerland manager Murat Yakin condemned. The match adds to broader frustration over officiating, including earlier VAR controversies involving Egypt. England advance to face Argentina after defeating Norway in extra time.

England prepare for a World Cup semi-final amid reports of tension between Jude Bellingham and manager Thomas Tuchel, which insiders deny, while Harry Kane attempts to calm the situation. Senegal dismiss head coach Pape Thiaw following their last‑16 exit, and Alexander Sorloth’s partner condemns online abuse after Norway’s defeat to England. Lionel Messi reportedly rebukes a referee over perceived disrespect during Argentina’s win against Switzerland. FIFA faces criticism over the overturning of Folarin Balogun’s red card and perceived preferential decisions benefiting Argentina, including VAR calls and disciplinary leniency.

Liverpool prepare for preseason under new manager Andoni Iraola as transfer activity intensifies. Arsenal have reportedly agreed personal terms with Bruno Guimaraes on a long-term deal, though Newcastle remain reluctant to sell and a fee of about £76m may be required. Lyon stand to gain from a sell-on clause. Curtis Jones publicly dismissed rumours of a move to Nottingham Forest, though Liverpool could still consider offloading him as he enters the final year of his contract.

Jannik Sinner defended his Wimbledon title by defeating Alexander Zverev in four sets, securing his fifth Grand Slam and extending his winning streak over the German. His mother repeatedly left Centre Court due to nerves, prompting Sinner to playfully acknowledge her in his victory speech. Zverev praised Sinner despite expressing frustration at another loss, reflecting on his progress after winning the French Open. Both players thanked their teams, fans, and the All England Club, highlighting the significance of competing on Centre Court.

Antonio Cassano’s turbulent football career is recounted through his exceptional talent, volatile temperament, and off‑field excesses that repeatedly derailed his progress. After rising from poverty to early stardom with Bari and Roma, clashes with managers and indulgent behaviour shadowed moves to Real Madrid and later clubs. Notable incidents included public disputes with Fabio Capello, fines for being overweight, and controversies linked to his hedonistic lifestyle. Despite periods of stability at Sampdoria and AC Milan, issues persisted until his eventual retirement. Now a podcast co‑host, he continues to spark disputes, most recently with Cristiano Ronaldo, highlighting his enduring ability to generate controversy.

Martina Hingis’s tennis career ended at 27 after a positive cocaine metabolite test led to a two‑year ban, despite her claims of innocence and an unsuccessful appeal based on alleged contamination. Her personal life also drew attention through accusations of infidelity from her first husband, Thibault Hutin. Hingis later remarried Harald Leemann, with whom she has a daughter, before their separation in 2022. Reflecting on her career, she credited her success to creativity and passion for the sport.

A 19-year-old Nîmes Olympique reserve-team captain, Teva Rodriguez, died from injuries sustained in a car crash near Nîmes. The club and former coaches issued emotional tributes highlighting his talent, character and long involvement with the team. The club altered its crest in mourning, and police continue to investigate the collision involving his car and an oncoming van.

Manchester United are moving to complete three imminent signings—Karl Darlow, Andrey Santos and Ederson—while continuing to pursue additional targets including Manu Kone, Aurelien Tchouameni and Neco Williams. Departures of several goalkeepers are underway, and medical assessments for incoming midfielders are progressing as the club accelerates its summer transfer overhaul under manager Michael Carrick.

Violence involving Legia Warsaw hooligans ahead of a 2023 Europa Conference League match in Birmingham left multiple officers and police animals injured, including one officer who caught fire after being hit by a flare. New footage shows the attack as prosecutors confirmed that seven men pleaded guilty to violent disorder and another to affray. West Midlands Police reviewed extensive evidence and praised the officers’ bravery as sentencing is set for December.

England face injury concerns as Declan Rice battles illness and Marc Guehi races to recover before the quarter-final against Norway, while Bukayo Saka returns to full fitness. Kylian Mbappe’s frustration grew after a long VAR delay preceded his missed penalty against Morocco, though he later scored and assisted in France’s 2-0 win. Erling Haaland criticised the prolonged VAR process, and Roy Keane supported the view that such delays harm players. Thomas Tuchel condemned FIFA after Jarell Quansah received a two-match ban, urging the FA to challenge the decision, as the squad prepares to refocus for the next match.

British tennis player Arthur Fery’s run to the Wimbledon semi-finals has sparked interest in his private life amid rumours linking him to culinary influencer Honor Millard, though the pair are confirmed to be only friends. Fery’s rise has included wins over Zizou Bergs and Grigor Dimitrov, despite recurring nosebleeds attributed to heat and dry conditions. Raised in southwest London and trained at Westside Tennis Club before studying at Stanford University, he has advanced rapidly through the rankings. Coming from a wealthy but tennis-connected family, he has gained praise for his work ethic and grounded character as he prepares to face Alexander Zverev.

Liverpool’s new manager Andoni Iraola evaluates his squad during preseason while transfer activity remains limited due to the ongoing World Cup. John Barnes urges the club to extend Virgil van Dijk’s contract amid recent high-profile departures. Harvey Elliott may receive a renewed opportunity after returning from a difficult loan spell. PSG forward Bradley Barcola, linked with Liverpool and Arsenal, is advised by Marcel Desailly to remain in Paris despite a £128m valuation.

Arsenal accelerate transfer plans with interest in major signings, including Bruno Guimaraes, who has asked to leave Newcastle as the club faces continued departures. The search for a new left‑winger intensifies as Bradley Barcola signals a desire to leave PSG despite advice from Marcel Desailly to stay. Reports from Italy suggest Arsenal have agreed personal terms with Roma midfielder Manu Kone, who has earned strong praise from Didier Deschamps. The club aims to strengthen key positions ahead of defending their Premier League title.

England prepare for a World Cup quarter-final against Norway amid reports of illness and tension in the Norwegian squad and complaints about disrupted accommodation. Belgium file a formal protest to FIFA over poor training pitch conditions ahead of their own knockout match. FIFA rejects France’s appeal to overturn Michael Olise’s yellow card, leaving him at risk of suspension. Mexico appoint Rafael Márquez as their new national team manager following Javier Aguirre’s departure after their loss to England.

Argentina advanced after a dramatic comeback against Egypt, prompting Egyptian players and staff to accuse officials of biased and incorrect decisions. Switzerland reached the quarter-finals by defeating Colombia on penalties following a tense but low-scoring match. Jordan Henderson was ruled out of the remainder of the tournament after suffering a severe wrist injury while celebrating England’s previous win, raising doubts about his future international career.

Liverpool continue transfer planning as uncertainty surrounds Curtis Jones, whose contract situation has attracted interest from Inter Milan, Nottingham Forest and Galatasaray. The club are also pursuing RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, though an initial £86m verbal offer was rejected, with Leipzig valuing him at £112m. Joe Cole has advised Diomande to prioritise Liverpool over PSG, arguing he would have a clearer path into the team. The club weigh potential midfield changes as the transfer window progresses.

Belgium eliminated the USA from the 2026 World Cup with a 4–1 win, prompting widespread mockery of Donald Trump for his intervention that helped overturn Folarin Balogun’s suspension. Portugal were knocked out by Spain, leading to Roberto Martinez’s resignation and an emotional exit for Cristiano Ronaldo. England players pranked manager Thomas Tuchel after their win over Mexico, while Emmanuel Macron publicly backed Kylian Mbappe following racist attacks from Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla, prompting planned legal action from the French Football Federation.

Manchester United intensify their search for midfield reinforcements after Casemiro’s departure, having already secured Ederson and missing out on Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes. Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi has drawn interest from United, Liverpool and Arsenal, with Lille president Olivier Letang indicating a valuation potentially reaching £120m. United are also monitoring Chelsea’s Andrey Santos, who is open to leaving in pursuit of regular playing time, with Chelsea valuing him at around £50m as they seek funds for new signings.

England’s 3-2 World Cup win over Mexico was overshadowed for many fans by BBC iPlayer delays and stream interruptions that left viewers behind live action. Social media posts highlighted widespread frustration over buffering, dropouts and lag compared with broadcast TV. On the pitch, Jude Bellingham’s quick-fire brace and Harry Kane’s penalty secured England’s quarter-final place despite Jarell Quansah’s red card and late pressure from Mexico.