Press Association

Supporter groups including the Manchester United Supporters Trust, The 1958 and The Red Army criticised Manchester United for restricting some online season‑ticket accounts in a crackdown on ticket resale. They argued the measures are overly harsh, lack transparency and risk penalising loyal fans without due process. The groups called for a pause on suspensions and cancellations while proper discussions take place. The club has asked fans to clarify account anomalies and will only issue sanctions after responses or a 14‑day period, with any cancelled tickets reallocated to those on waiting lists.

Arsenal signed 18-year-old centre-back Elijah Upson after his departure from Tottenham, where he had been offered terms following his academy scholarship. The England youth international, son of former Arsenal defender Matthew Upson, said he was proud to join the club and cited the positive environment and supportive staff as key factors in his decision.

Sir Alex Ferguson praised Kevin Keegan following the former Newcastle manager’s death at age 75, highlighting his impact on revitalizing Newcastle United and building what Ferguson called the club’s best-ever team. Ferguson recalled their intense 1990s rivalry but emphasized his respect for Keegan’s passion and influence, noting that the pair later reconciled amicably. Keegan’s death prompted widespread tributes from across the football community.

UK authorities decided not to deploy additional police to Atlanta for the World Cup semifinal between England and Argentina, citing strong coordination with local agencies and positive behaviour from England fans. The Atlanta Police Department increased its own security presence across key areas to manage expected crowds, while UK policing representatives expressed confidence in existing on‑site personnel and established relationships. Local plans include targeted deployment of resources and measures intended to maintain safety as rival fan groups gather for the high‑profile match.

Justin Rose hopes England defeat Argentina in regular time in their World Cup semifinal so he can maintain his rest before his early tee time at The Open. While prepared to accept any positive result, he aims to manage his emotions ahead of a demanding week at Royal Birkdale. Returning to the venue where his career launched in 1998, he reflects on his achievements and ambition to win an Open Championship, acknowledging both missed opportunities and the successes that have defined his long career.

Jordan Pickford expresses confidence that England will remain composed in their World Cup semifinal against Argentina, emphasizing discipline, focus and avoiding past controversies. He acknowledges Lionel Messi’s quality but stresses that England’s own talent and cohesion are equally decisive. Pickford highlights the team’s improved mentality, limited disciplinary issues and readiness for any match scenario as they aim to reach the final against either France or Spain.

Liverpool signed 22-year-old England goalkeeper Khiara Keating after her contract with Manchester City expired. Keating, a former City academy player and winner of the 2023–24 Women’s Super League Golden Glove, said Liverpool’s style and ambition motivated her move. She aims for regular playing time and more trophies under coach Gareth Taylor after contributing to England’s Euro 2025 win and City’s recent league and FA Cup double.

Harry Kane urged England to elevate their performances to secure a first World Cup title as they prepare for a semifinal against Argentina, acknowledging Thomas Tuchel’s calls for improvement after a narrow extra‑time win over Norway. Kane highlighted the team’s consistent runs to major tournament semifinals and finals but stressed the need to deliver a finishing breakthrough. Jude Bellingham’s standout play drove England through the quarterfinal, though Tuchel remained dissatisfied with the overall performance in Miami’s extreme heat. Kane said England still have a higher level to reach as they face Argentina and a potential final against France or Spain.

Gary Lineker said Jude Bellingham could become England's greatest footballer, citing his decisive World Cup performances, including consecutive knockout-stage braces and a leading tournament goal tally. Bellingham’s achievements place him alongside figures such as Maradona, Kane and Charlton, with Lineker praising his ability to elevate England in key moments.

South Africa defeated Scotland 42-28 in Pretoria after the visitors erased an early deficit to draw level by halftime but failed to score while Ben-Jason Dixon was in the sin-bin. The Springboks capitalised with three tries in a decisive 10‑minute spell, and although Scotland rallied through Josh Bayliss and Ben White, a late Jesse Kriel try secured the hosts’ win in the Nations Championship.

Jürgen Klopp has reached agreement on the main terms to become Germany’s next head coach following discussions in New York with senior officials from the German Football Federation. Both sides expect negotiations to conclude successfully, pending approval from the DFB supervisory bodies and agreement with Klopp’s current employer, Red Bull. Klopp has been overseeing global soccer operations at Red Bull since leaving Liverpool in 2024, while outgoing coach Julian Nagelsmann departed after Germany’s World Cup round‑of‑32 elimination.

Ireland secured a 36-20 bonus‑point win over Japan in the Nations Championship, with debutant Sean Jansen scoring one of five tries. Ireland rotated heavily after their narrow win over Australia, with Tadhg Beirne captaining and several players earning debuts. Japan struck first and stayed competitive through penalties and a late try, but Ireland’s scoring through Timoney, O'Toole, Henshaw, Jansen and Stewart ensured they remained top of their group.

Ezri Konsa suggested Jude Bellingham and Erling Haaland could develop a long-term rivalry comparable to Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi as England prepare to face Norway for a place in the World Cup semifinals. He praised both players’ rising profiles and highlighted England’s reliance on Bellingham and Harry Kane as a strength rather than a weakness. The article also notes current Golden Boot standings, with Messi and Kylian Mbappé leading the race, Haaland close behind and Bellingham among the top scorers.

Niamh Charles signed a three-year contract with Manchester City after six seasons at Chelsea, where she won 12 domestic trophies. She joins as the club’s second summer signing and looks forward to working with key teammates and staff. Manchester City leadership highlighted her experience and potential to contribute significantly following the team’s recent success.

Amadou Onana has been ruled out of the World Cup after suffering a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament during Belgium’s win over the United States. Team doctor Brahim Hacene confirmed the severity of the injury, and Belgium are coordinating with Aston Villa on his recovery plan. The midfielder had made four tournament appearances, and Belgium now advance to face Spain in the quarterfinals.

Downing Street explained that Prime Minister Keir Starmer supported the Football Association’s concerns over a proposed change to England’s World Cup match kick-off time but said FIFA retained full control over scheduling decisions. The clarification followed accusations that FIFA had yielded to political pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump in an unrelated disciplinary matter involving Folarin Balogun. The England-Mexico match ultimately began late due to thunderstorms, and England advanced after a 3-2 victory, while FIFA declined to comment.

FIFA’s suspension of Folarin Balogun’s red‑card ban prompted allegations of political interference after former president Sepp Blatter questioned whether pressure from the U.S. government influenced the decision. U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed the reversal, while FIFA has not commented on reports of outside involvement. The Belgian FA filed an appeal, calling the situation astonishing, and coaches Rudi Garcia and Thomas Tuchel criticized the lack of transparency and consistency surrounding the ruling.

Manchester City confirmed Nathan Aké’s transfer to Fenerbahce for an initial £7 million, potentially rising to £8.5 million with add-ons. The move ends the defender’s six‑year spell at City, during which he won multiple major trophies including four Premier League titles and the Champions League. City were initially surprised at Fenerbahce’s early announcement, but finalised the deal a day later. Aké expressed gratitude for his time at the club, reflecting on key achievements. Reduced playing time in Pep Guardiola’s final season and one year remaining on his contract contributed to the decision to move. He also recently featured for the Netherlands at the World Cup.

England fullback George Furbank has been ruled out of the upcoming Test against South Africa after being hospitalised with appendicitis, putting his entire July tour in doubt. His absence complicates England’s selection plans, with Marcus Smith the likely replacement and Henry Slade a potential addition to the bench as Freddie Steward continues to manage an ankle issue. The setback diminishes England's prospects against the world champions and adds to the challenges faced by Furbank, whose international career has already been hindered by multiple injuries.

Kimi Antonelli overtook Lewis Hamilton to win the British Grand Prix sprint at Silverstone, extending his championship lead. Hamilton led early from pole but was caught and passed by Antonelli on lap eight. Lando Norris finished third, while George Russell recovered to fourth after a chaotic early battle. Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen completed the top six, with Verstappen slipping from third to sixth. Antonelli’s victory increased his standings advantage over Mercedes teammate Russell.

Harry Kane says he feels in the best form of his career after scoring twice to keep England in the World Cup, taking his season total to 72 goals. His performances follow a prolific campaign with Bayern Munich, where he scored 61 goals while helping win the Bundesliga and DFK-Pokal. Kane credits fitness, confidence and timing, while teammate Anthony Gordon called him the greatest player to wear an England shirt and compared his season only to Lionel Messi’s most historic year.

Declan Rice played through severe neural hamstring pain in England’s win over Congo DR but expects to be fit for the World Cup round‑of‑16 match against Mexico. Thomas Tuchel said Rice insisted on continuing despite pain before being substituted late. England’s ongoing injury issues at right‑back continue, with Reece James and Jarell Quansah still doubtful after missing training. A reduced group trained in Kansas City as England prepare to travel to Mexico City for Sunday’s match at Estadio Azteca.

The UK government approved extended pub opening hours until 5 a.m. BST for England’s World Cup round‑of‑16 match against Mexico, which kicks off at 1 a.m. due to Mexico City’s time zone. The temporary extension goes beyond the standard 2 a.m. allowance previously granted for England matches. Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the benefit for fans and local venues. England advanced after defeating Congo DR and will face potential late‑night kickoffs throughout the tournament, with future matches in Brazil or Norway also scheduled at late hours.

Jack van Poortvliet is selected to start at scrum-half for England’s Nations Championship opener against South Africa, edging Alex Mitchell and Ben Spencer. Immanuel Feyi-Waboso returns from injury to start on the wing, while George Furbank reclaims the full-back position. Steve Borthwick names a strong forward pack led by captain Jamie George and vice-captain Ollie Chessum. England aim to break their long-standing struggles in Johannesburg as the squad prepares for the first of three July Tests.

Harry Kane’s two goals secured England a 2-1 comeback win over Congo DR in the World Cup round of 32, drawing praise from Wayne Rooney, Micah Richards and Joe Hart, who called him a hero and highlighted his decisive quality. Despite the victory, Rooney warned of serious defensive and midfield issues, citing poor structure, openness in transition and weak positional connections. Kane’s tally rose to five goals, keeping pace with the tournament’s top scorers, while attention turned to England’s need for tactical improvements ahead of facing co-hosts Mexico in the next round.

Leading players at Wimbledon ended their planned media restrictions after positive discussions with All England Club leadership. The group, including Jannik Sinner and Aryna Sabalenka, had been limiting interviews to push for higher prize money, stronger welfare programs, and a greater role in decision-making as part of Project RedEye. Wimbledon agreed to return with detailed proposals addressing the players’ demands, prompting the suspension of the protest. While core issues remain unresolved, both sides will continue discussions during the tournament. Broadcasters such as the BBC were affected by the brief protest, though Wimbledon stated no partners pressured them to reach a resolution.