Nicholas Mcgee

Manchester United have reportedly agreed to pay Brighton £65 million plus £5 million in add-ons for Cameroon midfielder Carlos Baleba. The 22-year-old has permission to travel to Manchester for a medical despite an ankle ligament injury, which is not expected to be long term. His arrival would add physicality and athleticism to a midfield already featuring recent signings Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, while manager Michael Carrick could then focus on strengthening at left-back.

Arsenal began their Premier League title defence with a rapid 2-0 lead over newly promoted Coventry City. Kai Havertz opened the scoring in the 15th minute from Riccardo Calafiori’s pass, before Bukayo Saka doubled the advantage eight minutes later after Carl Rushworth failed to hold Christos Tzolis’ cross. The result extended Arsenal’s unbeaten home record against promoted sides to 46 Premier League matches.

Al Nassr defeated Al Riyadh 4-0 in the Saudi Pro League, earning a second consecutive league win. Abdulelah Al-Amri, Angelo and João Félix scored before Cristiano Ronaldo, returning from a pelvic muscle injury as a substitute, added a late goal with an emphatic finish.

Chelsea have confirmed that Stamford Bridge will host Shakhtar Donetsk’s home matches in the Champions League this season. Shakhtar have been unable to play in Donetsk since 2014 because of the conflict in eastern Ukraine and have staged European matches at various venues across Europe. The London arrangement, which follows Shakhtar’s Ukrainian league title and qualification for the Champions League league phase, has received preliminary approval from UEFA and Hammersmith and Fulham Council, with final regulatory approval still required.

Newcastle manager Matthias Jaissle says the club is not feeling external pressure as it seeks further midfield reinforcements before the transfer deadline. Newcastle are reportedly interested in Manchester City's Nico Gonzalez, although a deal is unlikely to be completed in time for the match against Liverpool. Jaissle expects new signing Amar Dedic to make his Premier League debut and says the club is realistic about its current limitations while remaining ambitious.

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has called the club’s 2025–26 season unacceptable after a fifth-place Premier League finish and early exits from every cup competition. With Arne Slot departing and Andoni Iraola taking charge, Van Dijk believes Liverpool can restore the standards set in Slot’s first season and during Jürgen Klopp’s tenure. He said the squad is motivated to improve, compete on all four fronts and demonstrate its commitment to the club. Liverpool have made relatively few additions so far, signing Jeremy Jacquet and Victor Muñoz and borrowing Ronald Araújo from Barcelona, with Van Dijk suggesting further transfer activity could follow before the window closes.

Arsenal CEO Richard Garlick says Mikel Arteta’s new contract is expected to be finalized very shortly. Arteta, whose current deal has 12 months remaining, has indicated that he wants to stay after leading Arsenal to their first Premier League title in 22 years. Both the manager and club say they are comfortable with the timing, despite earlier concerns over delays. Arsenal begin their title defense against newly promoted Coventry City.

The BBC has confirmed its Match of the Day presenters and pundits for the 2026–27 season. Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan return as hosts, while Alan Shearer, Wayne Rooney and several other regular pundits remain. Martin Keown, Dion Dublin, Shay Given, Stephen Warnock, Nedum Onuoha and Theo Walcott are absent from the season’s regular line-up but are expected to contribute to other BBC football coverage. New additions include Ashley Young, Robbie Keane, Toby Alderweireld and former Tottenham and Brentford manager Thomas Frank. The BBC rejected reports of a talent exodus linked to Gary Lineker’s Netflix programme and The Overlap, with the new season beginning on Saturday.

Venus Williams has received a discretionary wild card for the 2026 US Open women’s singles draw at age 46. The seven-time Grand Slam champion will join fellow wild-card recipient Sloane Stephens, while one place remains to be announced. The unfilled spot has fueled speculation that Serena Williams could enter the singles draw after returning to major-level competition at Wimbledon. Serena and Venus recently reunited in doubles in Cincinnati, and their participation in New York is confirmed in some form, although Serena’s singles or doubles status remains unresolved.

Wayne Rooney believes Manchester United should make an approach for Arsenal defender Myles Lewis-Skelly, calling the versatile young left-back a “no-brainer” signing. His recommendation follows Luke Shaw’s poor display in a 4-2 pre-season defeat by AC Milan, which renewed concerns over United’s ability to rely on Shaw throughout the season. Rooney also argued that Michael Carrick’s midfield needs a more physical, athletic box-to-box player, citing Amadou Onana’s profile, despite the arrivals of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans.

Cardiff City drew 1-1 with Wrexham in the Championship after Rubin Colwill scored a 98th-minute free-kick. Kieffer Moore had given Wrexham an early lead, and the visitors created numerous opportunities to extend it, including several chances for Callum Doyle. Cardiff struggled to convert possession into clear chances but applied late pressure, eventually earning a point when Colwill’s set-piece beat goalkeeper Nathan Patterson.

Rodri has arrived in Barcelona to complete his transfer from Manchester City after Barcelona accepted a third bid worth up to £65.3 million. The Spain captain called joining Barcelona a dream, having chosen the club over reported interest from Real Madrid. Rodri said he wants to help Barcelona win the Champions League, a competition the club has not won since its 2015 treble.

Chelsea co-controlling owners Todd Boehly and Mark Walter are reportedly in talks to sell their 12.8% stakes in the club to majority owner Clearlake Capital. The potential transaction would value Chelsea at more than £5 billion, roughly double the consortium's 2022 purchase price, and could ease tensions within the ownership group. Clearlake currently holds 61.5%, while the remaining shares are divided among Boehly, Walter and Hansjörg Wyss. Ownership agreements are believed to restrict sales to Clearlake or Wyss during the first decade. Boehly's five-year term as Chelsea chairman is also due to end, with the role expected to pass to Clearlake next May. The development comes as Walter faces a U.S. investigation into loans linked to his businesses, although no connection has been established between that inquiry and his planned sale of the Los Angeles Lakers.

Jamie Carragher has criticized Liverpool’s pre-season style under new manager Andoni Iraola, arguing that the team has too many attacking players and resembles a chaotic “basketball game” rather than a balanced top side. Liverpool conceded nine goals while scoring nine in their warm-up matches. Iraola was appointed after Arne Slot’s dismissal, with Liverpool seeking to restore the intense, pressing football associated with Jürgen Klopp. Carragher expects supporters to blame the players rather than Iraola if the approach fails to produce results.

CAF has declined to condemn Gianni Infantino’s proposal to create FIFA Forward Enterprise, a company that would oversee major men’s and women’s competitions and sell minority stakes to private investors. Instead, CAF president Patrice Motsepe will convene its executive committee to assess the plan and has encouraged African member associations to participate in the consultation process. FIFA says member associations could receive $40 million for supporting the proposal, while Joshua Kushner is identified as the prospective lead investor. UEFA, the AFC, CONCACAF and former FIFA president Sepp Blatter have criticized the plan over its governance process, commercialization of football and potential conflicts of interest.

Newcastle United were beaten 4-1 by Championship side Bristol City in a pre-season friendly at Ashton Gate. Sam Greenwood, Lorent Tolaj and Max Bird gave Bristol a three-goal advantage before Harvey Barnes pulled one back, with Sven Botman's own goal completing the defeat. Botman and makeshift right-back Jacob Murphy were singled out for defensive struggles, underscoring Newcastle's need for reinforcements at full-back and centre-back. The report also notes friendly defeats for Ipswich Town against Osasuna, while Atlético Madrid beat Getafe 4-1 with two goals from Ademola Lookman.

AFC Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi is expected to miss three to four months after undergoing foot surgery for an injury sustained during the club’s pre-season trip to Austria. The setback ends immediate transfer speculation involving Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Tottenham and leaves new manager Marco Rose without Bournemouth’s leading scorer from the 2025–26 Premier League season, when Kroupi scored 13 goals. Evanilson, Rayan, Justin Kluivert and Marcus Tavernier will face greater pressure to replace his output as Bournemouth prepares for its Premier League and Europa League campaigns.

FIFA has charged Argentina players Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, Thiago Almada and assistant coach Roberto Ayala over alleged assaults and unsporting behavior following Argentina’s 2026 World Cup final defeat by Spain. Spain won 1–0 through Ferran Torres in extra time. FIFA also opened proceedings against the Argentine Football Association over player conduct, discriminatory chants and gestures, security and protocol violations, and a banner stating that the Falkland Islands are Argentine after Argentina’s semi-final victory over England. The British government demanded an investigation, while the accused parties and AFA will be allowed to present their positions before FIFA’s disciplinary committee.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has given the organization’s 211 member associations until September 19 to approve a proposed investment structure and accept a one-time $40 million payment. The plan would place the World Cup and Club World Cup under FIFA Forward Enterprise, with private investors acquiring a minority stake and Infantino potentially becoming its commissioner after his presidency. UEFA, the Football Association, CONCACAF, the Asian Football Confederation, FIFPRO Europe and European Leagues have criticized the proposal for its lack of consultation, governance safeguards and potential impact on players, fans and the international calendar. UEFA is considering a World Cup boycott, although the prospect is complicated by the 2030 tournament’s European hosts, while some national officials, including Czech FA president David Trunda, have expressed tentative support.

Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter warns that football’s governing body would lose its identity if it creates FIFA Forward Enterprise, a company intended to oversee major men’s and women’s competitions with private investors holding a minority stake. The plan could enable more frequent World Cups, provide FIFA member associations with financial incentives to approve it, and potentially lead to Gianni Infantino becoming the company’s highly paid commissioner after his presidency. UEFA has strongly opposed the proposal, while Blatter argues that the World Cup belongs to the public and football community rather than executives or investors.

Savinho has reportedly told Manchester City he wants to leave the club after two seasons. The Brazil winger, signed from Troyes for £30.8 million in 2024, has recorded seven goals and 13 assists in 84 appearances. Tottenham are considered the frontrunners for his signature, although City are expected to demand approximately £65 million. The potential fee comes as Tottenham continue a major squad rebuild and have already made several expensive signings.

UEFA has condemned FIFA’s plan to create FIFA Forward Enterprise, a commercial subsidiary combining the governing body’s broadcast, sponsorship, ticketing and licensing rights with tournament operations. FIFA says minority investment would fund development and increase payments to member associations while retaining control over football governance. Critics argue the proposal lacks transparency, could encourage more frequent or expanded World Cups, and may substantially benefit Gianni Infantino, who could reportedly earn about $64 million annually as the venture’s future commissioner or CEO. Thrive Eternal is expected to lead the investor group, with J.P. Morgan advising FIFA.

Roberto Mancini is expected to return as Italy coach after the proposed appointment of Andrea Pirlo collapsed over Pirlo’s association with Russian betting company Fonbet. FIGC president Giovanni Malago faced political pressure, while technical director Paolo Maldini resigned after only 16 days. Claudio Ranieri is reportedly set to replace Maldini. Mancini, who led Italy to Euro 2020 glory, inherits a team that has missed the last two World Cups and recently lost a World Cup qualifying playoff to Bosnia-Herzegovina. His return begins with Nations League matches against Belgium, Turkey and France.

Manchester City confirmed that Rodri has undergone successful back surgery and will begin a short rehabilitation period before taking time to rest and recover. The midfielder remains linked with a return to Spain to join Real Madrid, with his City contract set to expire at the end of the coming season. Although City reportedly remain optimistic about extending his deal, Madrid are believed to have renewed their interest. City manager Enzo Maresca said speculation around elite players was normal and expressed confidence that Rodri would return to the club.

Tottenham face Sydney FC in the Sydney Super Cup after pre-season wins over MK Dons and Auckland FC. Roberto De Zerbi may rotate his squad, with Sandro Tonali potentially returning while several players remain unavailable or are recovering from injuries. Sydney reached last season’s A-League Grand Final despite finishing fifth in the league. The match is unavailable on UK television but can be streamed on SPURSPLAY, and Tottenham are predicted to win 3-0.

Manchester United recorded their first pre-season win by defeating Rosenborg 5-0 in Norway. Shea Lacey opened the scoring, while Joshua Zirkzee, Jacob Devaney, Harry Amass and Ethan Williams added second-half goals. United controlled the match, with Patrick Dorgu and Leny Yoro also hitting the post or crossbar, and will next face Atlético Madrid on August 1.

Italy are expected to appoint Andrea Pirlo as head coach after Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola rejected approaches from the Italian Football Federation. Pirlo has reportedly accepted a verbal proposal and would replace Gennaro Gattuso, despite a mixed coaching record that includes dismissal by Sampdoria and a current role at Dubai United. The appointment is portrayed as a gamble as Italy seek to recover from repeated World Cup qualification failures. Pirlo’s first major competitive test is scheduled against Belgium in the UEFA Nations League on September 25.

Rafael Leao says he does not know whether he will remain at AC Milan after discussing the possibility of pursuing a new experience with the club. The Portugal winger, who has two years left on his contract, is reportedly attracting interest from Fenerbahçe but plans to report for Milan training and remains committed to giving his best while he is a Milan player. He scored nine Serie A goals and supplied three assists last season, when Milan finished fifth and missed out on Champions League qualification.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport will hear Senegal’s appeal on October 8 over CAF’s decision to overturn Senegal’s 1-0 extra-time victory against Morocco in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final and record the match as a 3-0 Moroccan win. CAF ruled that Senegal had forfeited the final after its players temporarily left the field following a contentious stoppage-time penalty. The CAS hearing will not use an expedited procedure, and a decision is not expected on the same day.

Manchester United face Rosenborg in Trondheim in a pre-season friendly as they continue preparations for the new Premier League season. Michael Carrick makes two changes from the side beaten 1–0 by Wrexham, with Radek Vitek replacing Tom Heaton in goal and Shea Lacey replacing Jack Fletcher. The match is unavailable on UK television but can be watched live on MUTV.

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca says he is unconcerned by speculation linking Rodri with Real Madrid, describing the midfielder as one of the best players while prioritising his recovery from impending back surgery. Maresca also says goalkeeper James Trafford and winger Jack Grealish remain City players for now, though transfers remain possible during the window. He acknowledges the challenge of replacing Pep Guardiola, calling the opportunity a privilege and recognising Guardiola's exceptional record at the club.

Elliot Anderson has joined Manchester City from Nottingham Forest for £116 million, becoming the club's fourth signing of the summer. The England midfielder said City are the “kings of Manchester” ahead of the September derby with Manchester United and praised the club's dominance and winning culture. New director of football Hugo Viana described Anderson as one of the world's outstanding young midfielders, while manager Enzo Maresca will oversee his development as he seeks the first major trophy of his career.

Nottingham Forest have signed Austria midfielder Xaver Schlager on a two-year contract as a free agent from RB Leipzig, making him the first acquisition of new head coach Oliver Glasner. Schlager reunites with Glasner after their time at Wolfsburg and says he is motivated by Forest’s history, ambitions and goal of returning to European competition.

Arsenal completed the £34 million signing of winger Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge, making him their third addition of the summer. After a standout season in Belgium, Tzolis aims to fill the left‑wing vacancy created by Leandro Trossard’s departure and looks forward to contributing goals, assists and hard work under Mikel Arteta. He reflects on past matches against Arsenal, praises the Premier League’s level and targets winning titles as he settles into the squad.

Aston Villa reached an agreement to sign Alejandro Garnacho from Chelsea on an initial loan that could become permanent, shortly after Chelsea secured Morgan Rogers from Villa for a record £117 million. Garnacho arrives following a disappointing season at Chelsea, while Villa continue reshaping their squad after key departures and new signings as they prepare for Champions League football.

Federico Valverde praised new Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho, calling him a “special person,” after returning to training following Uruguay’s disappointing World Cup exit. As club captain, Valverde expressed pride in his role and emphasized his determination to help end Madrid’s trophy drought after last season’s struggles. He highlighted his eagerness to learn from Mourinho, whose appointment marks a second spell at the club. Madrid will begin preparations for the season with an unofficial match against Albacete, who eliminated them from the previous Copa del Rey.

Italy are negotiating with Pep Guardiola to become the national team’s next coach, with FIGC president Giovanni Malago confirming that financial exceptions are being made to facilitate talks. Guardiola, who recently ended his tenure at Manchester City, is considered the leading candidate, though Roberto Mancini and Andrea Pirlo are also under consideration. Malago emphasized that discussions with multiple candidates remain active and that no appointment is guaranteed. Italy is seeking a new manager after failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup and will return to competition in September in a challenging Nations League group featuring Belgium, France, and Turkey.

Thomas Tuchel reaffirms his intention to lead England into Euro 2028 despite criticism following the World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina. England’s defensive shift after taking the lead resulted in losing control, culminating in two late goals from Argentina. Tuchel acknowledges tactical failures but attributes England’s collapse partly to cultural differences in ball possession and physical fatigue from the tournament. The Football Association leadership publicly backs him as calls for his dismissal continue.

Jackson Suber led the first round of the 2026 Open Championship with a five-under 65 in his first experience of links golf, while Rory McIlroy struggled to a two-over 72. Several top players, including Aaron Rai, Ludvig Aberg and Matt Fitzpatrick, also faltered, while contenders such as Scottie Scheffler, Collin Morikawa and Bryson DeChambeau posted solid scores to stay in early contention.

FIFA is reviewing Argentina’s use of a politically charged Falklands banner displayed after the World Cup semi-final win over England, following condemnation from the UK and the Falkland Islands government. Officials argue the act breaches FIFA rules prohibiting political messaging, with the Falklands government calling the gesture insensitive given the history of the 1982 conflict. The UK government publicly reaffirmed its position on the islands, while urging FIFA to enforce its regulations as the disciplinary committee considers possible actions.

Spain’s Lamine Yamal and Pedro Porro missed training three days before the World Cup final against Argentina, though both are believed to be managing only minor discomfort. Yamal trained separately with strapping on his left leg, while Porro is also dealing with light issues. Spain enter the final as favourites after defeating France 2-0, while Argentina reached the match through a late comeback win over England. Yamal has contributed one goal at the tournament and had another disallowed against France.

Fiorentina secured Alex Jimenez on loan from Bournemouth with an option to buy, following his suspension by the English club amid an investigation into social media allegations. Bournemouth confirmed his removal from the first-team setup in early May due to a serious matter linked to circulating posts. The defender, who joined permanently from AC Milan earlier in the year, made 32 appearances last season. The club extended well‑wishes as he departs to Italy.

Liverpool drew criticism for posting a message supporting Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister ahead of the World Cup semi-final against England, prompting debate given the club’s limited England representation and its complex relationship with the national team. The match revives one of football’s fiercest rivalries, rooted in historic World Cup clashes and tension over the Falkland Islands. Both nations meet for the first time since 2005, with a place in the final against Spain at stake.

England face uncertainty ahead of their World Cup semi-final against Argentina as Declan Rice continues to struggle with illness following his early exit against Norway. His absence would leave limited midfield options, with Reece James and Kobbie Mainoo the only alternatives, each carrying risks due to fitness concerns or inexperience. With key players recovering from injuries and the magnitude of the upcoming match, Rice’s availability is viewed as vital to maintaining England’s midfield stability alongside Elliot Anderson.

Leandro Trossard is set to leave Arsenal after the club agreed a €20 million deal with Besiktas, with the winger travelling to Istanbul for a medical. Arsenal are exploring replacements, targeting Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers and showing interest in PSG’s Bradley Barcola, while also pursuing Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes despite the club’s reluctance to sell.

Jordan Pickford warns that England cannot concentrate solely on Lionel Messi as they prepare to face Argentina in the World Cup semi‑final in Atlanta. England emphasize readiness for all scenarios after containing Erling Haaland in the quarter‑finals, while Messi approaches the match in prolific form. The encounter marks the first meeting between the nations in over 20 years, with England aiming to secure a place in the final.

Rodri expresses confidence that Lamine Yamal can rediscover his influence as Spain prepares to face France in the World Cup semi-final, noting the teenager’s maturity and need for calm despite limited impact in the tournament so far. He highlights Spain’s growth throughout the competition while acknowledging France’s strong defensive qualities and expecting a more controlled, less open match compared to previous high-scoring encounters. Spain’s competitive progression and ability to dictate the game are presented as central to their hopes of advancing.

England and Norway confirmed their starting lineups for their World Cup 2026 quarter-final in Miami. England made two changes, introducing John Stones and Noni Madueke, while Norway added Andreas Schjelderup. The article also provides match timing, UK broadcast and streaming details, and key historical and statistical context, including goal-scoring records and quarter-final appearances for both teams.

Linda Noskova captured her first Grand Slam title by defeating compatriot Karolina Muchova in a hard-fought Wimbledon final marked by emotional tributes to her late mother. Noskova overcame missed match points to win in three sets, becoming the third Czech ladies’ champion in four years. Muchova, despite the loss, praised Noskova’s performance and expressed gratitude to her team and supporters while vowing to continue pursuing a major title.

Linda Noskova claimed her first grand slam title by defeating Karolina Muchova in an all‑Czech Wimbledon final, overcoming missed match points in the second set before sealing the match in three sets. Noskova’s victory makes her the third Czech women’s singles champion in four years, following Marketa Vondrousova and Barbora Krejcikova.

Jürgen Klopp reached an agreement in principle with the German Football Association to become Germany’s next head coach following Julian Nagelsmann’s resignation after an early World Cup exit. Klopp, currently Red Bull’s global head of football and working as a pundit in North America, held initial talks in New York that produced consensus on key contractual terms. Final negotiations depend on resolving his release from Red Bull. If appointed, Klopp’s first match would be against the Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League on September 24.

Ken Bates, former owner and chairman of Chelsea and later Leeds United, has died at 94 in Monaco. Chelsea announced his death and paid tribute to his role in stabilizing the club after purchasing it for £1 in 1982 and guiding it through promotions and major trophy wins, including the 1997 and 2000 FA Cups. Bates sold Chelsea to Roman Abramovich in 2003 and later owned Leeds United, overseeing both setbacks and a return to the Championship. Supporters praised his lasting impact on Chelsea’s modern history.

Jayden Adams, a 25-year-old midfielder for Mamelodi Sundowns and South Africa, has died shortly after representing his nation at the 2026 World Cup. He featured in all three group-stage matches as South Africa reached the knockout rounds for the first time. The South African Football Players Union described his death as a devastating loss and praised his talent, humility, and contribution to the national team while offering condolences to his family and clubs.

Atletico Madrid signed Danish midfielder Morten Hjulmand from Sporting CP on a contract until 2031, marking their second summer acquisition after Alejandro Grimaldo. Hjulmand leaves Sporting after 142 appearances, contributing to consecutive league titles and a Portuguese double, and helping the club reach the Champions League quarter-finals. His final season ended without trophies as Sporting finished second to Porto and lost the cup final to Torreense. Atletico begin their LaLiga campaign on August 16 against Malaga.

Mikel Merino secured Spain’s 2-1 World Cup quarter-final win over Belgium with another late goal, becoming the first player to score knockout-stage winners as a substitute in two matches. Spain initially led through Fabian Ruiz before Charles De Ketelaere equalised, but a mistake by Belgium’s replacement goalkeeper Senne Lammens allowed Merino to score. The victory sets up a semi-final meeting with France, with Merino describing the achievement as a dream and expressing excitement for the challenge ahead.

Spain reached the World Cup semi-finals with a late 2-1 win over Belgium after Mikel Merino capitalized on a handling error by substitute goalkeeper Senne Lammens. Fabian Ruiz opened the scoring before Charles De Ketelaere equalized, and Spain ultimately advanced to face France after Thibaut Courtois exited injured and Belgium missed chances to turn the match around.

Spain opened the scoring against Belgium in their 2026 World Cup quarter-final through Fabian Ruiz after Thibaut Courtois parried a shot into his path. Despite further chances from Lamine Yamal, Belgium equalised when Kevin De Bruyne set up Timothy Castagne to cross for Charles De Ketelaere, whose header marked Spain’s first goal conceded of the tournament.

Manchester United’s planned signing of midfielder Ederson has fallen through due to concerns arising from his medical, despite Atalanta maintaining he is fully fit. The club recently agreed a deal for Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos and is now expected to pursue other midfield targets, including Manu Kone and Alex Scott.

Barcelona reached an agreement to sign Karim Adeyemi from Borussia Dortmund on a five‑year contract for €22 million plus €7 million in add‑ons. Adeyemi brings pace and goal-scoring experience from four seasons in Germany and joins a growing group of wide options that includes recent signing Anthony Gordon. His speed statistics are highlighted, including acceleration surpassing Usain Bolt’s first 30 metres. He may debut in a preseason friendly against Birmingham City as Barcelona prepare for the upcoming season.

Rafael Benitez signaled openness to international management as Scotland search for a successor to Steve Clarke following their World Cup group‑stage exit. Scotland’s return to competitive action comes in September’s UEFA Nations League match against Slovenia, and Benitez did not rule out interest in taking charge. Highlighting the motivational advantages of national‑team coaching compared with club management, he said he would consider offers from any country that presents a meaningful opportunity.

Egypt exited the World Cup after Argentina overturned a late 2–0 deficit with three goals, prompting Egypt coach Hossam Hassan to accuse officials and FIFA of decisive errors and bias. Key incidents included a disallowed Egypt goal, a potential penalty that was not reviewed, and a disputed buildup to Argentina’s stoppage‑time winner. Players and staff expressed frustration, claiming the decisions undermined their efforts while Argentina advanced.

Switzerland reached their first World Cup quarter-final since 1954 by defeating Colombia 4–3 on penalties after a goalless match marked by few clear chances. Gregor Kobel delivered key saves throughout, while Colombia squandered major opportunities, including misses from Luis Suarez and Jaminton Campaz. In the shootout, errors from Davinson Sanchez and Cucho Hernandez allowed Ruben Vargas to convert the decisive penalty. Switzerland, despite underdog status, advance to face defending champions Argentina.

Belgium defeated the United States 4-1 in Seattle to reach a World Cup quarter-final against Spain, aided by two goals from Charles De Ketelaere and capitalizing on major U.S. defensive errors. The match followed controversy over Folarin Balogun’s eligibility after his red card was overturned following a request from President Donald Trump for FIFA to review the incident, a move that drew criticism from football bodies, including Belgium’s federation. Despite USA’s brief equalizer from Malik Tillman, Belgium dominated, with goals from Hans Vanaken and Romelu Lukaku sealing the result. The defeat raises questions about Mauricio Pochettino’s future as USA coach amid ongoing fallout from the Balogun decision.

Belgium secured a 2-1 halftime lead over the United States in their World Cup last‑16 match after Charles De Ketelaere scored twice, capitalizing on sustained early pressure. The match followed controversy over Folarin Balogun’s reinstatement after a red card, a decision influenced by a call from President Donald Trump to FIFA’s Gianni Infantino, drawing criticism from across the football community and prompting objections from the Belgian FA. The United States equalized through a deflected Malik Tillman free‑kick, but Belgium quickly restored their advantage, with additional missed opportunities preventing a larger lead.

Roberto Martinez resigned as Portugal coach after their last‑16 World Cup defeat to Spain, citing failure to meet the goal of winning the tournament. A late Mikel Merino goal ended Portugal’s campaign and marked Cristiano Ronaldo’s final World Cup appearance. Martinez said a new voice is needed and reflected on his tenure, which included winning the UEFA Nations League. Portugal will begin their next cycle in September against Wales.

Kylian Mbappé condemned Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla for racist comments she made on social media following France’s World Cup win over Paraguay. He denounced her remarks as unworthy of her position and harmful to Paraguay’s image. The French Football Federation announced it would file criminal charges, calling Amarilla’s comments abhorrent and insisting they constitute criminal behavior.

Spain advanced to the World Cup quarter-finals with a 91st‑minute goal from Mikel Merino, eliminating Portugal and concluding Cristiano Ronaldo’s final World Cup appearance. Spain controlled much of the match but struggled to convert chances until substitutes Ferran Torres and Merino combined for the decisive late strike. Portugal created late opportunities but failed to equalise, with Bernardo Silva missing a close-range header and a last‑minute free‑kick evading Ronaldo. The result also increases expectations that Roberto Martinez will depart as Portugal coach.

Nottingham Forest parted ways with head coach Vítor Pereira after activating a break clause, despite him guiding the club to Premier League safety and the Europa League semi-finals. Oliver Glasner, who recently left Crystal Palace after winning multiple trophies, is expected to take over. The change comes as Forest have agreed to sell midfielder Elliot Anderson to Manchester City for up to £130 million. The club thanked Pereira and his staff for their contributions as preparations begin for the next managerial era.

Japan exited the World Cup in the last 32 after losing to Brazil despite leading through Kaishu Sano. A late winner from Gabriel Martinelli ended their hopes, prompting coach Hajime Moriyasu to say he will take time to consider his future. His tenure has included notable successes but recent disappointments have increased scrutiny. Moriyasu believes Japan can continue progressing toward competing for a world title.

UEFA will not adopt FIFA’s new rule mandating a red card for players who cover their mouths during confrontations, instead allowing referees to judge incidents individually and issue yellow cards when appropriate. The decision diverges from IFAB’s approved change initiated by Gianni Infantino, which has already led to dismissals at the World Cup. UEFA emphasized that disciplinary investigations may still follow when necessary.

Manchester City reached an agreement with Nottingham Forest to sign midfielder Elliot Anderson for up to £130 million, with the move to be finalised after his return from the 2026 World Cup. Anderson, a key performer for Forest after joining from Newcastle United, has completed a medical at England’s training base in Kansas. Forest, undergoing managerial change with Vitor Pereira departing and Oliver Glasner set to take over, praised Anderson’s contributions while allowing him to focus on international duty.

Everton signed midfielder Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough for around £24 million on a five‑year contract, with the player citing David Moyes’ track record and the club’s direction as key factors in his decision. Hackney expressed enthusiasm for joining before pre‑season and confidence in contributing both offensively and defensively. Moyes highlighted Hackney’s promise and the added depth he brings to the midfield as Everton prepares for the new season.

Tottenham completed the signing of Matheus Fernandes from West Ham and prepared to finalize a £100 million deal for Sandro Tonali, who cited Roberto De Zerbi as the key factor in choosing the club despite interest from Arsenal and Manchester City. Fernandes praised De Zerbi’s style and vision, while the coach highlighted the midfielder’s quality and adaptability. Tonali described his move from Newcastle as amicable and motivated by both football and family considerations, crediting De Zerbi’s influence and Brescia ties. He also left open the possibility of a future return to AC Milan.

The United States advanced to the World Cup last 16 with a 2-0 win over Bosnia-Herzegovina despite Folarin Balogun being sent off after scoring the opener. Malik Tilman secured the win with a late free-kick, and Bosnia failed to exploit their numerical advantage. The result sets up a last‑16 match against Belgium, where the absence of the suspended Balogun may be significant.

Folarin Balogun put the United States ahead just before half-time against Bosnia-Herzegovina, scoring his third goal of the tournament after an earlier effort was ruled offside. The United States struggled to break down Bosnia’s strong defensive setup but gained momentum after the breakthrough, with Balogun later striking the crossbar in stoppage time as the team moved closer to securing a place in the last 16.

USA and Bosnia and Herzegovina confirmed extensive lineup changes for their World Cup 2026 last‑32 match in San Francisco, with the USA reverting to their opening‑match starters and Bosnia making three adjustments from their win over Qatar. Match details include kickoff times, broadcast information and statistical context such as the USA’s knockout‑stage record and Bosnia’s set‑piece scoring strength. Additional notes highlight player backgrounds and recent team performances as both sides compete for a place in the last 16 against either Belgium or Senegal.