Patrick Austen-Hardy

Amy Hunt won her fourth gold medal at the European Athletics Championships in Birmingham as she helped Team GB win the mixed 4x100m relay alongside Jeremiah Azu, Dina Asher-Smith and Zharnel Hughes. Their time of 39.95 seconds set a new European record. Hunt had already won gold in the 100m, 200m and women's 4x100m relay, making her the first athlete to win all four sprinting events at the championships and surpassing Fanny Blankers-Koen's previous benchmark. Asher-Smith also became the most successful athlete in European Championships history by medal count.

Victor Osimhen has declined to rule out leaving Galatasaray while responding cautiously to renewed speculation linking him with Arsenal. The striker said he is focused on preseason preparations and will consider his future later. Arsenal are reportedly weighing a move for the £58 million-rated forward after setbacks in pursuing Morgan Rogers and Vinícius Júnior, while Atlético Madrid are seeking more than £100 million for another target, Julian Alvarez.

Amy Hunt won the women’s 200m final at the European Athletics Championships in Birmingham in 22.19 seconds, securing her second gold medal of the week after winning the 100m. Ireland’s Rhasidat Adeleke took silver in 22.28, while Hunt’s Great Britain teammate Dina Asher-Smith won bronze in 22.29 and equalled Sandra Elkasevic’s record of seven European Championship medals. Hunt credited her coach and bravery on the bend, while noting health issues and low blood pressure had made the 200m challenging. She will next compete in the women’s and mixed 4x100m finals as Team GB seeks more medals.

Paul Pogba is reportedly in talks with AS Monaco over the mutual termination of his two-year contract after suffering a hamstring injury during pre-season. The former Manchester United midfielder made only six appearances for Monaco last season following an 18-month reduction to his doping ban, and his future has become increasingly uncertain. Monaco CEO Thiago Scuro said the club would assess Pogba’s physical and technical condition before deciding whether their objectives remain aligned.

A lightning strike during the Golok FA Cup match in Sungai Golok, Thailand, killed 24-year-old footballer Sofwan Awae and injured 12 others. Teammates and emergency responders attempted to revive Awae, but he died from severe injuries. Police, the Football Association of Thailand and Yala FC expressed condolences, while the incident renewed attention on the dangers of lightning in Thailand, where hundreds of deaths were attributed to strikes between 2020 and 2024.

Arsenal are reported to be close to signing Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes for £75 million, with the midfielder said to have completed his medical, while Martin Zubimendi’s role at the club is questioned. Arsenal players are also reportedly confident that a record-breaking deal for Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior could be completed, although Vinicius remains in contract talks and is still expected by some sources to stay in Spain. Manchester United are linked with Juventus forward Francisco Conceicao, Newcastle left-back Lewis Hall and Real Madrid midfielders, while Liverpool continue to monitor PSG players. Other updates include Mohamed Salah agreeing to join Trabzonspor, Chelsea nearing a deal for Pep Chavarria, Everton signing Christian Norgaard and Real Madrid reportedly finalising a major deal for Yan Diomande.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino is facing mounting internal and external pressure after abandoning a controversial plan to create a commercial subsidiary capable of selling stakes in the World Cup and other FIFA competitions. UEFA, CONCACAF, the Asian Football Confederation and several national associations opposed the proposal, while senior adviser Carlos Cordeiro resigned and Arsene Wenger endorsed its withdrawal. A leaked email from FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom described the episode as a serious and troubling series of events, urged staff to remain focused on FIFA's mission and appeared to signal that Infantino's leadership is increasingly vulnerable. UEFA has also threatened potential legal, arbitration and regulatory action.

Manchester United have reportedly told Toby Collyer, Ralf Rangnick's sole signing during his interim tenure, that he can leave permanently this summer. The midfielder was omitted from Michael Carrick's squad for a friendly against Atlético Madrid and instead played for the under-21s. Collyer has made only 13 senior appearances for United and endured injury-hit loan spells at West Bromwich Albion and Hull City. Although United began the summer short of central midfielders, signings including Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos, the expected arrival of another midfielder, and Tyler Fletcher's higher standing have left Collyer outside Carrick's plans.

Arsenal are pursuing a major move for Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior while continuing to explore a deal for Atlético Madrid forward Julian Alvarez. The club is also reportedly closing in on Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, raising the possibility of an exceptional summer transfer window. Manager Mikel Arteta has said Arsenal need greater squad depth and elite players to compete across four competitions and sustain their Premier League title challenge.

Manchester United have been advised not to sell Marcus Rashford to a Premier League rival such as Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal or Chelsea because he could return to hurt the club. Former United assistant manager Rene Meulensteen said Rashford remains capable of making a significant difference and suggested an overseas transfer, Saudi Arabia or Major League Soccer as alternatives. He also urged manager Michael Carrick to discuss Rashford’s mindset and potential role before deciding whether to reintegrate him. Barcelona have declined to sign Rashford permanently, while United’s current attacking options could make a guaranteed starting place unlikely.

Newcastle United confirmed that Eddie Howe has resigned as head coach after nearly five years. Howe guided the club to two Champions League qualifications and its first domestic trophy in 70 years, but the team struggled to a 12th-place Premier League finish after major player departures and significant transfer spending. Coaches Jason Tindall, Graeme Jones, Stephen Purches, Simon Weatherstone and head of performance Dan Hodges are also leaving. Howe issued an emotional farewell thanking the club, supporters, players and ownership. Matthias Jaissle, formerly of Al-Ahli, is expected to replace him.

Seventeen-year-old Tate Ferdinand has signed his first professional contract with Brighton & Hove Albion after impressing for the club's under-18s and under-21s teams. His father, former Manchester United and England defender Rio Ferdinand, celebrated the milestone, while former United teammates Edwin van der Sar and Darren Fletcher sent congratulations. Tate joins his brother Lorenz, who is also under contract at Brighton, and has been praised for his leadership, performances and progress against older players.

Carlos Cordeiro has resigned as a senior advisor to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, citing opposition to a proposed $20 billion commercial subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprises. The plan would reportedly sell a 20–30% stake to outside investors to raise $4.2 billion, prompting opposition from UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation and CONCACAF. Cordeiro argued that FIFA has sufficient reserves and revenue to fund football development without selling part of the World Cup’s future, and criticized the proposal’s lack of transparency, oversight and justification.

The Asian Football Confederation has joined UEFA and CONCACAF in opposing Gianni Infantino’s proposal to create FIFA Forward Enterprise and sell 20–30% of it to private investors. With 143 of FIFA’s 211 member associations represented by the opposing confederations, the plan may fail to secure the more than 50% support required. The AFC warned that the proposal could undermine the World Cup’s unity and criticized FIFA for inadequate transparency, consultation and oversight, calling for urgent governance reform.

Gianni Infantino’s plan to create FIFA Forward Enterprise and offer private investors stakes in the World Cup and other FIFA competitions has provoked strong opposition. UEFA says its 55 member associations will boycott FIFA competitions unless the proposal is abandoned, while CONCACAF also opposes it. Under FIFA statutes, 20% of member associations—43 countries—could call an emergency Congress and initiate a vote of no confidence, potentially threatening Infantino’s expected unopposed re-election through 2031. FIFA denies that football is being sold and says the proposal is intended to give member associations greater commercial ownership, but its assurances have not eased the backlash.

CONCACAF and its 41 member associations have rejected Gianni Infantino’s proposal to create FIFA Forward Enterprise and sell a 20–30% stake in FIFA’s commercial operations to private investors. The plan has also been opposed by UEFA, which has threatened to boycott FIFA competitions, while U.S. Soccer publicly backed CONCACAF’s position. The opposition represents 96 FIFA member nations—more than 45% of the total—complicating Infantino’s attempt to secure the majority support he says is needed and potentially creating tension with Donald Trump’s administration, which was reportedly briefed on the scheme.

CONCACAF and its 41 member associations have rejected FIFA president Gianni Infantino’s proposal to sell private investors interests in the World Cup and other FIFA competitions. The confederation questioned the need for outside equity after FIFA’s most profitable World Cup and criticized the proposal’s lack of due process, short deadline and limited governance review. UEFA and its 55 member associations have gone further, threatening to boycott FIFA competitions until the plan is abandoned and binding assurances are given that FIFA competitions will not be privately owned. Both organizations argue that commercial investors could place shareholder returns ahead of football’s long-term interests.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino is proposing a $20 billion commercial subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise, to manage the men's and women's World Cups and the Club World Cup. FIFA would sell a 20–30% stake to private-equity investors, potentially raising $4.2 billion, while offering member federations up to $20 million each. Infantino could lead the venture after leaving the FIFA presidency in 2031. UEFA strongly opposes the plan, citing concerns over transparency, privatization and private influence, and European associations have threatened to boycott FIFA competitions. CONMEBOL and the Asian Football Confederation were reportedly blindsided, while FIFA has set a September 19 deadline for member federations to accept or reject the funding proposal.

UEFA and its 55 member associations have unanimously rejected Gianni Infantino's proposal to sell stakes in the World Cup and other FIFA competitions to private investors. UEFA says its national teams will boycott FIFA tournaments while the proposal remains active, potentially jeopardizing the FIFA U20 Women's World Cup in Poland, which is due to begin on September 5. Infantino has set September 19 as the deadline for national associations to support the plan and reportedly needs just over half of FIFA's members for it to proceed. Other confederations have not yet declared their positions, leaving the tournament's participation and FIFA's broader governance structure uncertain.

The Premier League has endorsed European Leagues' opposition to Gianni Infantino's plan to create FIFA Forward Enterprise, a subsidiary that would consolidate and potentially sell FIFA's commercial and event-related rights to private investors. European football bodies argue that the World Cup and football's commercial value belong to leagues, clubs, players and supporters, and accuse FIFA of pursuing the proposal without transparency or stakeholder consent. FIFA's 211 member associations reportedly face a September 19 deadline to approve the plan in exchange for funding, while UEFA president Alexander Ceferin is expected to coordinate resistance. The Czech Football Association has expressed conditional support, and Thrive Capital is reported to be a major backer.

Former racing driver Christian Danner says rumors suggest Michael Schumacher may be recovering at an estate in Majorca, but he has received no confirmation from Schumacher's wife, Corinna. Schumacher has remained out of public view since suffering severe injuries in a 2013 skiing accident, while his family has kept details of his condition private. Corinna says the family continues therapy and does everything possible to keep him comfortable, while Danner believes his continued absence indicates that he remains seriously unwell.

The Mirror’s live transfer blog reports that Arsenal’s pursuit of Vinicius Junior has suffered a setback because Real Madrid remain confident of retaining him and plan further contract talks. Real Madrid have also made a second, potentially record-breaking bid for RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande. Liverpool are negotiating with PSG over Bradley Barcola but face a substantial valuation gap, while the club also discusses Fikayo Tomori and Ezri Konsa. Chelsea are close to agreeing a deal for Danny Welbeck, Manchester United are in talks with Juventus over Joshua Zirkzee and continue to monitor Lewis Hall, and Manchester City winger Savinho has reportedly told the club he wants to leave. Other updates include John Stones nearing a move to Inter, Kalvin Phillips returning to Sheffield United on loan and Wrexham pursuing Danny Imray.

Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin has reportedly been approached by a consortium seeking to buy about 30% of Liverpool FC. Led by Amit Bhatia, the group could become the club's second-largest shareholder in a deal valuing Liverpool at approximately $6 billion (£4.5 billion). Saverin's estimated £24.3 billion fortune would make him one of the wealthiest potential Premier League owners, while Jeff Bezos has also been linked to the consortium. Fenway Sports Group confirmed that the group had expressed interest in a strategic minority investment, but no agreement involving Saverin has been reached.

Tottenham captain Cristian Romero is reportedly expected to leave the club this summer after criticism from supporters and uncertainty following the arrivals of Jan Paul van Hecke and Marco Senesi. Inter Milan are pursuing the 28-year-old, while Arsenal and Chelsea have also been linked with a move. Arsenal need defensive cover because William Saliba is set to miss time after back surgery, and Chelsea are reportedly seeking another centre-back despite pursuing Crystal Palace’s Maxence Lacroix. Atlético Madrid and Barcelona have also shown interest, with Tottenham now reportedly valuing Romero at about £25.9 million. Inter sporting director Piero Ausilio confirmed the club is working on a deal with Romero and Tottenham.

Tyson Fury reacted to Anthony Joshua's narrow escape against Kristian Prenga with the Instagram comment “Wow, wtf?” Joshua was knocked down twice in the opening round but recovered to stop Prenga in the second. Fury had previously defeated Mariusz Wach, keeping the proposed Fury–Joshua blockbuster on track. Joshua called for Fury after his win and expressed both aggression and respect, while promoter Eddie Hearn said the contracts were signed; London and New York remain possible venues, with no date confirmed.

A leaked letter reportedly shows FIFA president Gianni Infantino congratulating Argentine Football Association president Claudio Tapia and praising Argentina's professionalism after the 2026 World Cup final. The letter emerged after Argentina players and assistant coach Roberto Ayala were involved in a post-match confrontation following Spain's 1–0 victory. FIFA has appointed a prosecutor to investigate possible violations of its disciplinary code, but no sanctions have yet been announced.

Roma want to sell Manchester United target Manu Kone by July 31 to comply with a UEFA settlement agreement limiting their losses to €60 million and avoid a possible fine of up to €10 million. United have reportedly agreed personal terms with the midfielder but have yet to submit a bid, frustrating Roma. Kone is valued at roughly £43 million to £51 million, while Manchester United are also monitoring Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni after adding Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos to their midfield.

New referee-camera footage shows Jude Bellingham criticizing referee Ismail Elfath after England’s World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, telling him there had been “some shocking” decisions. England players were frustrated by Argentina’s fouls and limited bookings, while Bellingham also explained that his exchange with Lionel Messi concerned a disputed foul rather than a serious confrontation. Bellingham later scored in England’s third-place playoff victory over France, becoming the first Englishman to score seven goals at a single World Cup. Argentina subsequently lost the final to Spain amid post-match clashes.

Arsenal are reportedly considering a player-plus-cash proposal to Atlético Madrid for Julian Alvarez, potentially offering Viktor Gyökeres as part of the deal. Alvarez remains a priority after Chelsea beat Arsenal to Morgan Rogers, while Mikel Arteta has called for ambitious recruitment following the club’s Champions League final defeat. Arsenal are also monitoring Bradley Barcola, defensive reinforcements and Bruno Guimarães, with injuries and squad concerns adding to their transfer needs.

CONMEBOL president Alejandro Dominguez suggested the 2030 World Cup will feature 64 teams, despite FIFA not formally confirming the expansion. His statements contrast with Gianni Infantino’s more cautious stance, noting that the issue requires further evaluation. UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin and AFC president Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa criticised the proposed expansion, warning of negative consequences for international football.

England assistant manager Anthony Barry became emotional during a BBC half‑time interview after the team scored four goals against France in the World Cup bronze‑medal match. He praised the squad’s resilience following their semifinal loss to Argentina, highlighting their strong spirit and performance. Goals from Rice, Konsa and a first‑half brace from Saka built the lead, while France fought back through Mbappe and Barcola before Saka completed his hat‑trick to secure England’s victory.

Danny Murphy publicly argued that Thomas Tuchel should be dismissed as England manager while speaking live on the BBC before England’s World Cup bronze‑medal match against France, prompting attention because Tuchel was standing nearby. Fans jeered Tuchel after England’s controversial semi‑final loss to Argentina, though FA chief executive Mark Bullingham reiterated his support for the manager. Despite criticism of his tactical decisions, Tuchel stated he intends to continue through his contract to Euro 2028.

Dwight Yorke questions whether Bruno Guimaraes is good enough to improve Manchester United, despite interest from Arsenal, who have had a £55 million bid rejected and reportedly agreed terms with the midfielder. Guimaraes has asked to leave Newcastle, but Yorke argues his World Cup performances lacked the quality expected of a top signing. Yorke instead highlights Ayyoub Bouaddi as a more exciting midfield prospect after the 18-year-old impressed for Morocco, drawing interest from major European clubs.

Bryson DeChambeau was penalized two strokes at The Open after officials ruled he improved his lie by trampling long grass near his ball, prompting him to threaten withdrawal. The penalty dropped him from second to fifth place, three shots off leader Lucas Herbert. Rules official Grant Moir clarified that the violation applied even though the action was accidental. DeChambeau refused to comment after his round, and his agent said it was uncertain whether he would play the next day, though Laura Davies suggested he would continue.

Iceland received a cease-and-desist letter from the Football Association for renaming three stores to “England” as a World Cup marketing stunt before England’s match against Argentina. The FA argued the move could wrongly imply a commercial partnership, ordering the supermarket to remove all related material by July 17. Iceland criticized the timing and intent of the action, saying the campaign was purely to support England and highlight players’ hometowns. The dispute surfaced as England prepared to face France in the third-place match in Miami.

The United States signaled it would not support banning Argentina players who displayed a Falklands-related banner after their World Cup semi-final win over England, despite UK calls for disciplinary action. FIFA is reviewing match reports before deciding on sanctions, while the UK Government reaffirmed its stance on the islands and urged investigation. White House officials, including Andrew Giuliani, framed the display as protected expression, though still potentially subject to FIFA rules. The incident follows previous disciplinary cases involving political declarations in football.

Criticism focuses on England’s retreat into conservative, fear-driven football during the World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina, despite Thomas Tuchel’s earlier efforts to promote a more proactive style. The team’s reluctance to retain possession, conservative substitutions, and omission of ball‑comfortable players are cited as reinforcing long-standing cultural anxieties in English football. Despite improved technical development across the country, both Tuchel and the squad failed to break from those instincts in the decisive match, leaving future Nations League fixtures as potential opportunities to confront those shortcomings.

Lionel Messi praised Argentina’s resilience after assisting both goals in their World Cup semi-final victory over England, saying the result silenced critics who would have reacted harshly to a defeat. He highlighted the pressure and significance of the match, describing the win as vital for both the team and the Argentine people. The victory puts Argentina into a second consecutive World Cup final, with Messi set to become only the second player to appear in three finals and now leading the golden boot race with eight goals and four assists. The team’s determination and comeback mentality were emphasized as key to reaching another final.

Roy Keane delivered a harsh critique of France following their 2-0 World Cup semifinal loss to Spain, condemning the team’s defensive disorganisation and lack of support among players. Lucas Digne’s errors, including conceding a penalty and failing to track Pedro Porro for Spain’s second goal, drew particular scrutiny. Spain maintained their unbeaten, goals-against-free run, securing a spot in the final against either England or Argentina.

FIFA plans to extend the World Cup final half‑time to around 30 minutes to accommodate a large‑scale performance featuring major artists, despite IFAB’s 15‑minute limit and prior concerns over longer breaks. Broadcasters BBC and ITV will now air the show after the interval’s extension. The decision has drawn criticism from fans frustrated by FIFA’s unilateral rule changes. England prepare to face Argentina in their semi‑final as the tournament builds toward the highly publicised final event.

Gianni Infantino’s prospects for securing a third term as FIFA president appear less certain following World Cup controversies, particularly the suspension of Folarin Balogun’s red-card punishment after intervention from Donald Trump and a disputed disciplinary decision attributed to Mohammad al-Kamali. Reports suggest growing resistance within UEFA and potential challengers such as Dariusz Mioduski and Victor Montagliani, although Infantino still maintains strong support among smaller federations, boosted by his proposal to expand the World Cup. FairSquare has filed a complaint to the International Olympic Committee alleging breaches of ethics during the Balogun episode, intensifying scrutiny of FIFA’s leadership.

Pubs and bars in England and Wales have been granted extended licensing hours to remain open for 30 minutes after the final whistle if England’s World Cup quarter-final against Norway in Miami is delayed by severe weather. Forecast thunderstorms could push back the 10pm BST kick-off, and lightning protocols require stoppages and wait times before play can resume. The measure ensures fans can watch the full match even with delays, following similar extensions during England’s previous knockout game. FIFA and NOAA guidelines on lightning safety remain in place as temperatures and rain probabilities rise ahead of kick-off.

England face Norway in the World Cup quarter-final amid several injury concerns, including Marc Guehi’s hamstring issue and Declan Rice’s sickness bug. Reece James is attempting to return from injury, while Jarell Quansah is suspended, leaving Djed Spence likely to start. Bukayo Saka has been cleared to play despite an Achilles problem as Thomas Tuchel manages a squad dealing with physical setbacks after the win over Mexico.

Manchester United confirmed plans to build a new 100,000‑seat stadium 350 metres from Old Trafford, allowing matches to continue at the current ground during construction. The club has not decided whether to retain, redevelop or demolish Old Trafford and will consult Trafford Council and supporters as part of wider regeneration discussions. Stadium development CEO Collette Roche emphasised the need to preserve the club’s heritage, with final design decisions still pending. United aim for completion well before the 2035 Women’s World Cup, with detailed timelines dependent on planning approval.

Justin Bieber will co-headline the first FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show alongside Madonna, Shakira, BTS, Burna Boy, Gustavo Dudamel and Coldplay at MetLife Stadium on July 19, but the BBC and ITV plan to continue with regular match analysis rather than broadcast the performance. Proceeds from the show will support the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, which aims to expand access to education and football worldwide. Bieber expressed gratitude for contributing to the initiative as fans reacted enthusiastically following his announcement on Instagram. The performance will be his first major stage appearance since Coachella following previous health-related touring breaks.

Argentina's national team revived a chant referencing the Falkland Islands after a dramatic comeback win over Egypt in the World Cup round of 16, raising tensions ahead of a potential semi-final meeting with England. The politically sensitive reference stems from the long‑standing sovereignty dispute over the islands. Argentina now face Switzerland in the quarter-finals, while England must first overcome Norway, who are dealing with illness issues and have changed hotels due to disruptions. Key players include Lionel Messi, who led Argentina’s comeback, and Erling Haaland, aiming to challenge England in Miami.

Folarin Balogun addressed the controversy surrounding his World Cup suspension after it was overturned following a call from President Donald Trump to FIFA, a decision that provoked backlash from football authorities and coaches. Despite being allowed to play, the United States lost 4-1 to Belgium, and Balogun expressed acceptance of both the initial red card and its reversal. The ruling has led to wider disputes, with the Belgian FA angered, Thomas Tuchel questioning the precedent, and other nations considering appeals on similar disciplinary decisions.

Belgium defeated the United States after repeated defensive errors led to multiple goals, prompting visible frustration from head coach Mauricio Pochettino. Early controversy over Folarin Balogun’s eligibility and reported communication between Gianni Infantino and Donald Trump overshadowed the build‑up. Malik Tillman briefly equalised, but further mistakes allowed Belgium to regain control, with additional setbacks including an injury to Christian Pulisic.

Roy Keane reacted with disbelief after Donald Trump described calling FIFA president Gianni Infantino to request a review of Folarin Balogun’s World Cup red card, a move that led to the striker’s suspension being lifted. The intervention angered Belgium and drew criticism from football figures including Gary Neville, Thomas Tuchel and Stale Solbakken, who warned of serious implications for FIFA and the competition. Infantino acknowledged the call but said an independent disciplinary body overturned the ban, while Belgium remained frustrated despite Balogun receiving a fine.

Oliver Glasner has been appointed Nottingham Forest manager after owner Evangelos Marinakis dismissed Vitor Pereira by email minutes before a contract clause deadline. Glasner arrives following success with Crystal Palace, signing a deal through 2029, with both he and Marinakis outlining ambitions to elevate Forest into a leading English and European club. Pereira’s sudden removal came despite having kept Forest in the Premier League and reaching the Europa League semi‑finals last season.

The Belgian Football Association criticized FIFA for suspending Folarin Balogun’s red‑card ban ahead of the USA–Belgium World Cup match, following allegations that the White House contacted Gianni Infantino to request a review. FIFA denied any political influence, but the Belgian FA argued the decision contradicted multiple FIFA regulations mandating automatic suspension after red cards. The RBFA announced it is exploring options to protect competitive integrity. Balogun remains a key player for the USA, and Donald Trump publicly praised the decision to lift the ban.

Arsenal are exploring a move for Sporting Lisbon midfielder Morten Hjulmand as an alternative to Bruno Guimaraes, with Sporting rejecting a recent Atletico Madrid bid and setting a high valuation. Hjulmand is reportedly keen on the Premier League and has a personal affinity for Arsenal, increasing the likelihood of a deal. Arsenal continue to strengthen their midfield after adding Martin Zubimendi, while uncertainty over Christian Norgaard and shifts in squad options may prompt further reinforcements. The club is also monitoring several attacking targets, though high valuations and player preferences complicate negotiations.

FIFA suspended Folarin Balogun’s one-match ban for his red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina, allowing him to play in the USA’s World Cup match against Belgium. The disciplinary committee applied a one‑year probationary period, meaning the suspension will activate only if he commits a similar offence. The decision provides a major boost for the USA, with Balogun having contributed three goals and an assist in the tournament. Officials confirmed the red card followed a VAR review, while Mauricio Pochettino argued it was accidental. The USA will face Belgium for a place in the quarter‑finals.

Sir Chris Hoy and his wife, Lady Sarra, appeared in the Royal Box at Wimbledon, receiving a warm response as they continue to face serious health challenges, including his stage‑four prostate cancer and her multiple sclerosis. The couple’s presence highlighted their determination to maintain a full life despite their conditions. Hoy, preparing for the Tour de 4 charity ride in September, emphasised his focus on staying positive and demonstrating that those living with advanced cancer can still pursue goals and look forward to the future.

Mexico’s national team returned Rolex watches gifted by content creator Stephen Rocco Deleonardis after concerns the gesture violated FIFA’s ethics code. The incident added to disruptions ahead of the World Cup match against England, compounded by reports FIFA planned a major kickoff time change without consulting the Mexican or English football associations. Manager Javier Aguirre voiced strong frustration over the impact on preparations. The match at Azteca Stadium will determine who advances to face either Norway or Brazil in the quarter-finals.

Argentina advanced to the World Cup round of 16 after a 3-2 extra-time win over Cape Verde, with Lionel Messi scoring his seventh goal of the tournament. Cape Verde players interrupted Messi’s post-match interview to take photos with him, which he graciously accommodated. Messi praised Cape Verde’s strong performance, noting the difficulty of the match and the competitive nature of the tournament. Cape Verde exited the competition without a defeat in regular time.

Marcus Rashford says he will not address his club future until after the World Cup, focusing solely on England’s campaign. Barcelona declined a £26m option to sign him permanently after a productive loan, leaving him set to return to Manchester United, who prefer a permanent sale rather than another loan. Rashford remains interested in a Barcelona move but is also linked with Tottenham, Arsenal and Chelsea. United are preparing contingency plans and targeting West Ham’s Crysencio Summerville as a potential new left winger.

Harry Kane’s brace against DR Congo kept England in the World Cup, lifting his tournament tally to five goals and drawing praise from Joe Cole, who joked that Kane is finally appreciated after leaving Tottenham for Bayern Munich. Kane reflected on England’s resilience and the importance of individual contributions as the team prepares to face an undefeated Mexico side at the Azteca Stadium.

FIFA referees chief Pierluigi Collina defended the VAR decision that overturned Germany’s late goal against Paraguay, explaining that Waldemar Anton obstructed the goalkeeper. Germany were eliminated on penalties, intensifying Julian Nagelsmann’s anger, who called the decision a scandal but stated he intends to continue as manager if the DFB agrees. Paraguay advanced to face France after securing their first knockout-stage win.

Mauricio Pochettino apologised for his frustrated reaction to media questions following the USA’s 3-2 loss to Turkey, emphasising that the issue was his own disappointment after the defeat. Preparing for the World Cup Round of 32 match against Bosnia and Herzegovina, he stressed the importance of emotional control and highlighted recent major upsets involving Germany and the Netherlands as reminders that no team is guaranteed success. He framed the upcoming match as a final, urging his players to stay composed and focused while embracing the intensity of the moment.

Czechia manager Miroslav Koubek resigned shortly after the team’s early World Cup exit, citing a hostile media environment and accepting joint responsibility for the disappointing campaign. His departure follows other managerial exits at the tournament, including South Korea’s Hong Myung-bo and Tunisia’s Henryk Kasperczak, all departing after poor performances in the group stage.

Jelena Ostapenko drew attention at Wimbledon when viewers noticed Tesco sponsoring her kit during her three-set victory over Harriet Dart. Social media reacted with surprise and humour at the unexpected partnership, while Ostapenko acknowledged jeers from the crowd and embraced her role as the unpopular winner in her post-match comments. She advances to the next round wearing the same Tesco-branded outfit.