Tom Olver

Peter Crouch said Arsenal looked “way ahead” of Manchester City after their dominant Community Shield victory in Cardiff. Riccardo Calafiori, Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard scored, while Christos Tzolis assisted two goals and Myles Lewis-Skelly earned particular praise for his contribution. Crouch also argued that Manchester City will miss Rodri following his move to Barcelona, despite praising Elliot Anderson, and said Jack Grealish needs to revive his career after returning as a substitute. Arsenal now begin their Premier League title defence against newly promoted Coventry.

Jose Mourinho says he urged Vinicius Junior to remain at Real Madrid rather than join Arsenal, telling him that the significance of Madrid would become clear only if he left. Vinicius subsequently signed a six-year contract with the Spanish club, ending Arsenal's pursuit. Mourinho also defended Vinicius against criticism and alleged unfair treatment by referees and opposing supporters, while acknowledging that the player could show more balance when celebrating goals. He reaffirmed his support for Vinicius despite previously defending Gianluca Prestianni after Vinicius accused the Benfica player of racist abuse.

Jamal Musiala said he has been diagnosed with temporary, brief and easily treatable absence seizures caused by a neurological dysfunction after collapsing during Bayern Munich friendlies against RB Leipzig and Heidenheim. He said he is receiving expert medical treatment, faces no further health risks and remains optimistic about continuing his football career, while asking that the matter largely remain private. Bayern staff and teammates supported him during the latest incident, but his availability for the German Super Cup against Borussia Dortmund and the start of Bayern's Bundesliga title defence remains uncertain.

Paul Scholes and Wes Brown believe Adam Wharton would be an excellent fit for Manchester United and question why the club appears to have cooled its interest. United have already signed Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans but could still seek further midfield reinforcement before the September 1 deadline. Crystal Palace reportedly value Wharton at £80–100 million, with Brown arguing United should only proceed if the fee can be reduced. Wharton remains under contract until June 2029 after helping Palace win the FA Cup, Europa Conference League and Community Shield.

After Arsenal defeated Manchester City 3–0 in the Community Shield, Frank Leboeuf revised his Premier League prediction, dropping City from second to fifth and placing Chelsea, Manchester United and Liverpool above them behind Arsenal. He said Arsenal looked ready for the season while City's absent or unfit players and poor performance suggested they could lose early points and struggle to recover. Leboeuf also predicted Chelsea could finish second, citing their squad, new coach Xabi Alonso and the absence of European competition.

Michael Owen says Manchester United should have signed Joao Pedro, whom he considers an “unbelievable” forward, before the Brazilian moved from Brighton to Chelsea for £60 million. Pedro scored 20 goals in his first Chelsea season and is now viewed as one of the club’s untouchable players. Owen predicts Chelsea could finish second behind Arsenal, arguing that the absence of European football and Xabi Alonso’s appointment could help the team improve, although he identifies goalkeeper Robert Sanchez as a concern. Arsenal have reportedly shown interest in Pedro, but Chelsea rejected a proposed €100 million move.

Liverpool have reportedly agreed personal and financial terms on a five-year contract with 18-year-old PSG winger Ibrahim Mbaye, who is said to favor a move to Anfield over interest from Bayer Leverkusen. Liverpool have not yet agreed a transfer fee with PSG and are also pursuing Mbaye's teammate Bradley Barcola, for whom PSG reportedly want £145 million. Both players are contracted to PSG until June 2028. PSG manager Luis Enrique indicated that players unhappy in Paris could leave, while Liverpool's summer window has otherwise been relatively quiet and several current players may depart before the deadline.

Alan Pardew has urged Manchester United to pursue Aston Villa and England centre-back Ezri Konsa, whom Arsenal are also targeting. Arsenal reportedly had a £30 million bid rejected, with Villa holding to a £60 million valuation and Unai Emery wanting to retain the defender. Pardew believes Konsa would suit Michael Carrick because of his passing, aerial ability and set-piece goal threat. He also advised United to avoid Cristian Romero, criticizing the Tottenham-bound defender's volatility and ill discipline.

Martin Keown believes Atlético Madrid striker Julian Alvarez could provide the quality Arsenal need to progress from domestic success to Champions League contention. Arsenal have strengthened with Piero Hincapie, Christos Tzolis, Illan Meslier and Bruno Guimaraes, while missing out on Vinicius Junior, but Keown expects further business before the transfer deadline. He identifies the forward and wide areas, along with possibly right-back, as positions requiring reinforcement and says Arsenal must make ambitious, well-timed signings to establish domestic dominance and end their wait for European glory.

Arsenal beat Manchester City 3–0 in Cardiff to win the Community Shield, but Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri were left out of the matchday squad because of limits on the number of substitutes. A video showing the pair standing apart during the celebrations sparked fan speculation that both could leave Arsenal. Martinelli has entered the final year of his contract and has attracted reported interest from Galatasaray and Napoli, while Nwaneri has been linked with AC Milan. Mikel Arteta said he wants Nwaneri to remain but acknowledged that the club must ensure he receives sufficient playing time.

Alan Pardew says Arsenal currently look “head and shoulders” above their Premier League rivals after a comprehensive Community Shield victory over Manchester City. Arsenal won 3–0, with goals from Riccardo Calafiori, Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard, while new signing Bruno Guimaraes made his debut. Pardew believes Arsenal’s continuity under Mikel Arteta gives them an advantage over clubs with new managers and predicts that another major signing could put them in position to win the league comfortably, although he acknowledges that one Community Shield performance is not conclusive.

Arsenal defeated Manchester City in the Community Shield, with goals from Riccardo Calafiori, Kai Havertz and captain Martin Odegaard securing the trophy. Odegaard said Arsenal want to win every competition, while praising debutants Bruno Guimaraes and Christos Tzolis. Manager Mikel Arteta highlighted Tzolis's intelligence, composure and quality in the final third. The result gives Arsenal momentum ahead of their Premier League title defence, while Manchester City and manager Enzo Maresca face pressure to improve before their league opener.

Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi has declined to confirm whether Bradley Barcola will remain at the club amid reported interest from Liverpool and Arsenal. Barcola, who has excelled since joining PSG from Lyon in 2023, has two years left on his contract and has not agreed to an extension. PSG are reportedly seeking £145 million, a fee that could discourage both English clubs. Liverpool view the winger as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah, while Arsenal are considering alternatives after failing to sign Vinicius Junior. Al-Khelaifi confirmed that discussions and negotiations are ongoing but said Barcola remains a PSG player.

Ben Foster names Youri Tielemans as the Premier League’s signing of the summer after Manchester United activated his £35 million release clause at Aston Villa. Foster believes United have improved with Tielemans and Andrey Santos but still need a high-cost, proven centre-forward to become serious title challengers, along with possible additions at centre-back and in central midfield. He sees potential in Benjamin Sesko but says the striker still needs to develop, while United must maintain the momentum built under manager Michael Carrick.

Peter Crouch backs reigning champions Arsenal to win the 2026/27 Premier League, calling them the best team in the division. He predicts Manchester City, Manchester United and Chelsea will complete the top four, while excluding Liverpool and Tottenham. Crouch believes Liverpool’s squad has been weakened by recent departures despite confidence in new manager Andoni Iraola, and expects Erling Haaland to win the Golden Boot after scoring 30 goals.

Lee Dixon says Arsenal could consider swapping Myles Lewis-Skelly for Marcus Rashford, believing Mikel Arteta could help Rashford regain his best form despite reservations about his consistency. Lewis-Skelly’s regular playing time is uncertain after falling behind Riccardo Calafiori and following Arsenal’s midfield investment, while Rashford could fill an attacking gap after Leandro Trossard’s departure. Manchester United are monitoring Lewis-Skelly but are more strongly interested in Newcastle’s Lewis Hall, whom former United defender Phil Bardsley considers a better fit at left-back, particularly given Luke Shaw’s injury history.

Racing Santander manager José Alberto says 19-year-old left-back Jorge Salinas does not want to leave the newly promoted club this summer, despite reported interest from Manchester United and Barcelona. Salinas, who helped Racing win promotion to La Liga and Spain's Under-19 European Championship, has a €16 million release clause and a contract through June 2029. Racing officials hope to retain him but acknowledge they could be powerless if a major club pays the clause.

Arsenal have signed Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes for £75 million on a four-year contract through 2030. The Brazilian midfielder is expected to add creativity, goals and leadership to Mikel Arteta’s midfield after Arsenal’s reliance on set pieces last season. Former Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann backed the move but said it was premature to call Guimaraes “top class” and argued that he must prove himself at Arsenal.

Frank Leboeuf has backed Arsenal as the overwhelming favourite to retain the Premier League title after ending a 22-year drought last season. He argues that Arsenal have the most settled squad among the leading teams, while questions remain over William Saliba's importance, the impact of new signing Bruno Guimarães and whether the side can improve its style of play. Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel shares the view that Arsenal are the team to beat, despite concerns about their reliance on set pieces and the challenge of defending their title.

Manchester United are reportedly ready to abandon their pursuit of Newcastle left-back Lewis Hall after Newcastle deemed him untouchable. The club may instead target Fulham and United States defender Antonee Robinson, whose lower expected cost and strong World Cup performance make him an attractive alternative. United are prioritising left-back recruitment because Luke Shaw is their only established senior option, while Harry Amass could leave on loan. Myles Lewis-Skelly and Racing Santander teenager Jorge Salinas are also being considered, with Salinas attracting interest from Barcelona.

Vinicius Junior has agreed a new six-year contract with Real Madrid running until June 2032, ending speculation that he could join Arsenal. Arsenal had reportedly considered making him the highest-paid player in Premier League history, but negotiations between Vinicius’s representatives and Madrid concluded positively. The Brazilian forward has scored 128 goals and won 14 trophies during his Real Madrid career, including two Champions League titles, and is determined to avoid leaving the club on a free transfer.

Liverpool are reportedly monitoring Tottenham and England full-back Djed Spence ahead of a possible £35 million transfer. Tottenham are said to be open to selling the 25-year-old, who rebuilt his reputation after a strong 2025/26 season and impressive World Cup performances. Liverpool face competition from Inter Milan and AC Milan, although Inter’s pursuit has not advanced despite earlier discussions with Spence’s representatives.

Vinicius Junior deleted his Instagram posts shortly after holding renewed contract talks with Real Madrid, prompting Arsenal fans to speculate about a possible transfer. Arsenal are reportedly prepared to make the Brazil forward the Premier League’s highest-paid player, while Real Madrid remain keen to renew his contract and Jose Mourinho is believed to oppose his departure. Jamie Carragher welcomed the idea of Vinicius joining Arsenal but said the player may be using the club’s interest to secure improved terms in Madrid and that a deal is unlikely.

Arsenal are reported to have agreed a £75 million fee with Newcastle United for Bruno Guimaraes, who is expected to undergo a medical and become the club's third summer signing. Former Newcastle winger Chris Waddle is surprised by the move, arguing that Guimaraes may struggle to displace or complement Arsenal's existing midfield pairing of Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi. Newcastle are also reportedly frustrated by Arsenal's indirect negotiating approach, although the sale would provide significant funds after the club's recent major departures.

Jamie Carragher has cast doubt on Arsenal’s chances of signing Vinicius Junior, suggesting the Brazilian is using interest from the Premier League club to secure a new contract with Real Madrid. Arsenal are reportedly prepared to make him the highest-paid player in Premier League history, while Mikel Arteta is said to be keen on the move. Vinicius’s positive comments about working with new Real Madrid coach José Mourinho, combined with reports that he prioritizes resolving his future in Madrid, have weakened Arsenal’s prospects. Carragher also argues that Arsenal need a superstar attacker to challenge for the Champions League, though such a signing could compromise Arteta’s preferred defensive work from his wingers. He predicts Manchester City will win the Premier League title if Rodri stays at the club.

Jamie Carragher predicts Manchester City will narrowly win the Premier League under new manager Enzo Maresca, with Arsenal the only other team he regards as a realistic contender. He believes City's prospects depend partly on whether Rodri remains, while Arsenal may be distracted by another Champions League campaign and still lack a superstar forward. Carragher rules Liverpool out because they need two high-quality central defenders and a top right winger to replace Mohamed Salah, while he also says Manchester United are not ready to challenge despite approving of their more thoughtful transfer strategy.

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca says the club still needs to strengthen its squad during the summer transfer window and remains in daily contact with director of football Hugo Viana and CEO Ferran Soriano. City have signed Elliot Anderson for a club-record £116 million but have also lost experienced players including Bernardo Silva, John Stones, Nathan Ake and Manuel Akanji. The club is reportedly pursuing Chelsea winger Pedro Neto, though Chelsea’s £70 million asking price could be a barrier, with AC Milan also linked. Maresca acknowledged that City’s opening pre-season defeat to Inter Milan exposed areas for improvement ahead of the Premier League campaign.

John Obi Mikel predicts Arsenal will be the Premier League team to beat after winning the previous season's title by seven points over Manchester City. He praises Mikel Arteta's settled squad but says Arsenal must play more attractive football while defending their championship. Mikel dismisses reports linking Vinicius Junior with Arsenal, arguing that the forward is using the interest to secure a better contract at Real Madrid, and instead recommends Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes as a realistic signing.

Jack Wilshere has urged Myles Lewis-Skelly to remain at Arsenal and fight for his place rather than join Manchester United. The teenager lost his regular left-back role to Riccardo Calafiori last season but finished strongly, helping Arsenal win the Premier League and starting the Champions League final. Manchester United are reportedly investigating a possible deal as they seek competition for Luke Shaw. Wilshere believes Lewis-Skelly has the ability and character to establish himself under Mikel Arteta, whom he expects to drive Arsenal’s efforts to build on their league success.

Newcastle United have reportedly ruled out selling Lewis Hall despite strong interest from Manchester United. Newcastle view the 21-year-old left-back as an “untouchable” part of their squad, with three years remaining on his contract and an important role expected under incoming head coach Matthias Jaissle. Manchester United may therefore turn to alternatives, particularly Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly and Racing Santander teenager Jorge Salinas, who has a €16 million release clause and is also being monitored by Barcelona.

Chelsea have completed a £52 million deal to sign France international centre-back Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace on a six-year contract. Former Chelsea captain Gary Cahill calls the transfer a smart signing and believes Lacroix can use the move to develop further. Former Chelsea coach Jody Morris praises Lacroix’s Premier League form but questions his performances for France at the World Cup and whether he can adapt from a back-three system to Chelsea’s expected setup.

Chelsea teenager Dastan Satpayev made an impressive unofficial debut against Sydney Wanderers, scoring early and troubling the defence before making a substitute appearance against Tottenham. His former Kairat manager, Rafael Urazbakhtin, said Satpayev is stronger, faster, more resilient and more versatile than Liam Delap, while Xabi Alonso praised the youngster’s strength, pace and attacking movement. Chelsea are expected to give Satpayev opportunities to adapt and compete for first-team minutes.

Chelsea have reportedly set a £70 million valuation for winger Pedro Neto amid strong interest from Manchester City. Neto scored five goals and supplied six assists last season after joining Chelsea for about £51 million in 2024, and remains under contract until June 2031. Chelsea value him but could reconsider their position after significant offers, while AC Milan and Saudi club Al-Hilal are also linked. Neto is reportedly open to a move to Manchester City, where he could reunite with former Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca, although regular playing time is not guaranteed. A sale could help Chelsea offset their spending on Morgan Rogers and other summer arrivals.

Juventus are pursuing a loan deal for Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee, with an option to buy at the end of next season. Zirkzee has reportedly approved the move and is interested in returning to Serie A after struggling at United, where he has scored nine goals and provided four assists in 75 appearances. Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti supports the transfer, while Manchester United appear willing to offload the player despite his contract running until June 2029. Speculation that Francisco Conceicao could be part of the deal is complicated by the winger's preference to stay in Turin.

Paul Merson says Arsenal should abandon their pursuit of Vinicius Junior, who appears focused on renewing his Real Madrid contract, and instead make a move for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola. PSG are reportedly seeking £145 million for Barcola, but Merson believes Arsenal must sign either him or Vinicius after selling Leandro Trossard to Beşiktaş and leaving themselves short of left-wing options. He warns that failing to recruit a high-level winger would create a major concern for the Premier League champions.

Gary Neville says he is not surprised that Vinicius Junior prefers to remain at Real Madrid despite Arsenal reportedly approving a bid for the forward. With Vinicius entering the final year of his contract, his representatives are expected to resume renewal talks with Madrid, while the player is reportedly keen to ensure the club receives a transfer fee if he eventually leaves. Neville described a move to Arsenal as spectacular but argued that Premier League clubs have historically struggled to beat Real Madrid and Barcelona to the world’s top players.

Paul Ince questioned Manchester United’s decision to spend about £50 million on 22-year-old midfielder Andrey Santos, arguing that Kobbie Mainoo could already fill the role and that the club has several midfield options. Ince praised Youri Tielemans and remains interested in a possible Ederson move, while emphasizing that Champions League participation requires a stronger squad. He also backed Michael Carrick to revive Marcus Rashford’s Manchester United career after the forward’s productive loan spell at Barcelona. United are continuing their preseason preparations ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

Former Chelsea winger Shaun Wright-Phillips has urged Chelsea to re-sign Lewis Hall as a replacement for Marc Cucurella, who has joined Real Madrid. Hall, now at Newcastle United, is valued at more than £50 million after establishing himself as a versatile and highly regarded left-back. Wright-Phillips praised Hall’s ability and potential, while Joe Cole criticized Chelsea’s ownership for selling academy products and pursuing a data-driven long-term strategy that has produced heavy spending, losses and managerial instability.

Former Chelsea midfielder Andy Townsend says Liam Delap is not yet good enough for Chelsea and argues that Danny Welbeck would be a significant upgrade in attack. Chelsea are reportedly in advanced talks with Brighton over the 35-year-old striker and are also among the leading contenders to sign 36-year-old Jordan Henderson from Brentford. Townsend believes both experienced players could provide goals, leadership and dressing-room know-how as Chelsea move beyond their previous youth-focused recruitment strategy. He also suggests Henderson’s potential arrival may be linked to uncertainty over Enzo Fernández’s future.

Lisandro Martinez says Argentina's players turned their backs during Spain's World Cup trophy lift to continue singing with their own supporters, not to disrespect Spain. His explanation follows widespread criticism of Argentina's post-match conduct, including altercations involving Leandro Paredes and coach Roberto Ayala. Martinez rejected claims that the team was arrogant, while Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni defended the players' effort and ability to accept defeat. FIFA has confirmed an investigation into the incidents.

Former Premier League manager Alan Pardew claims Arsenal’s proposed move for Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior is likely to happen, citing the player’s contract situation, Arsenal’s status as Premier League champions and the club’s need for a high-level left winger. Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho is reportedly opposed to the transfer, while Arsenal are said to be preparing a club-record bid and offering wages above Bukayo Saka’s £350,000-a-week package. Pardew also discusses Arsenal’s interest in Newcastle midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, Declan Rice’s fitness concerns and the potential role of teenage prospect Max Dowman.

Chelsea are completing a deal worth about £52 million to sign Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix on a six-year contract. Former Chelsea coach Jody Morris praised Lacroix’s performances in Palace’s back three but criticized his showings for France at the World Cup, warning that he must improve and prove he can operate effectively in a back four under new manager Xabi Alonso. Morris also said Chelsea should sell Enzo Fernández if the midfielder wants to leave, provided the club receives a substantial fee, with Chelsea reportedly valuing him at £120 million.

Vinicius Junior reportedly wants to remain at Real Madrid and make renewing his contract a priority, despite Arsenal exploring a major transfer. Contract talks are expected to resume after his break in Brazil, with Vinicius seeking assurances about his role under José Mourinho and wages of about €20 million net per season. Real Madrid’s hierarchy and Mourinho reportedly want to retain him, while the club’s agreement for Yan Diomande has fueled uncertainty over Vinicius’s future.

Manchester United are unwilling to sell Marcus Rashford to Premier League rivals despite interest from Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham. After a productive loan at Barcelona, Rashford is expected to receive another chance under new coach Michael Carrick, with a Champions League club emerging as his preferred destination. United fear the public-relations fallout of him succeeding elsewhere in England, while Rashford maintains good relations at the club and awaits clarity on his future. Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown doubts the likelihood of Rashford joining Arsenal amid discussions following Leandro Trossard’s departure.

Martin Keown doubts Arsenal will pursue Marcus Rashford as a left‑wing option, citing the player’s improved form and uncertainty over his future at Manchester United. Arsenal are reassessing transfer plans after missing out on Morgan Rogers, who is joining Chelsea for £117m, while a deal for Christos Tzolis appears close. Keown suggests Arsenal may target a midfielder, winger and striker before the deadline, and views Rogers’ move as financially driven due to Aston Villa’s need to comply with regulations.

Argentina president Javier Milei will not attend the World Cup final against Spain, choosing to watch from his Buenos Aires residence due to superstition. He plans to wear the same jacket he considers lucky after Argentina’s earlier wins. Spanish prime minister Pedro Sanchez, the Spanish royal family and US president Donald Trump will attend the match, with Trump expected to help present the trophy alongside FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Trump’s recent football-related remarks, including criticism of England’s tactics and discussion of Folarin Balogun’s suspension, prompted responses from England manager Thomas Tuchel. The final is set for July 19 at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium.

Peter Schmeichel criticised Thomas Tuchel’s decision to leave Bukayo Saka out of England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina, calling it a mistake, after Saka responded with a hat-trick in the third‑place match against France. Despite wider criticism of England’s tactics in the semi‑final, Schmeichel urged supporters to focus on the team’s overall progress and praised their performances throughout the tournament, including their resilience in difficult conditions during the quarter‑final win over Mexico.

Arsenal have reached a €40m agreement with Club Brugge to sign winger Christos Tzolis as a replacement for Leandro Trossard following his move to Besiktas. Tzolis’ strong form in Belgium has accelerated Arsenal’s interest, and he is expected to become the club’s third summer signing after Piero Hincapie and Illan Meslier. Arsenal also remain interested in Morgan Rogers and continue to monitor Bruno Guimaraes, though Newcastle maintain he is not for sale.

Jude Bellingham downplayed a tense early-game exchange with Lionel Messi during England’s World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina, explaining they were only debating a foul. Messi provided two key assists as Argentina overturned England’s lead to reach the final, while England’s defensive approach under Thomas Tuchel drew heavy criticism. Bellingham, England’s standout performer, expressed disappointment at the defeat but said it was a privilege to face Messi. The FA is expected to retain Tuchel despite calls for his resignation. Argentina advance to face Spain in the final, while England prepare for a third-place playoff against France.

Argentina celebrated their World Cup semi-final victory over England with on-pitch festivities and a mock ‘minute’s silence’ led by Nicolas Otamendi in the dressing room. Late goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez overturned England’s lead, ending their hopes of a second-ever World Cup final. A banner referencing the Falklands raised by Argentina’s players may prompt FIFA action, while tensions from the match spilled over as Jude Bellingham was involved in a post‑match altercation. Argentina advance to face Spain in the final, with England meeting France in the third‑place playoff.

Wayne Rooney urges Thomas Tuchel to start Marcus Rashford instead of Noni Madueke for England’s World Cup semi‑final against Argentina, arguing for tactical adjustments including dropping Jude Bellingham deeper and selecting Reece James and John Stones if fit. He highlights vulnerabilities in England’s midfield and stresses focusing on England’s strengths rather than Argentina’s threats. Michael Owen echoes criticism of Madueke while calling for Bukayo Saka to start on the right after his improved showing against Norway.

Jamie Carragher argues England must develop a specific plan to limit Lionel Messi’s influence while also exploiting his defensive weaknesses ahead of their World Cup semi-final against Argentina. He sees Argentina as narrowly stronger due to their goalkeeper and centre-backs but believes both teams possess elite attacking options. Carragher highlights Jude Bellingham as England’s key threat and defends Thomas Tuchel’s direct post-match comments, emphasising the need for decisive management in major tournaments. He notes the historic rivalry between England and Argentina but suggests it holds less significance for the current generation of players.

Gabriel Clarke faced criticism for questions directed at Thomas Tuchel and Jude Bellingham following England’s World Cup win over Norway, with some fans accusing him of provoking tension within the team. Piers Morgan publicly defended Clarke, arguing he asked appropriate questions that produced important responses, while Simon Jordan disagreed and accused Clarke of selectively framing Tuchel’s remarks. The debate circulated widely online as England prepared for their semi‑final against Argentina.

FIFA approved Argentina’s request to wear their navy blue second kit for the World Cup semi‑final against England, a colour associated with past victories over their rivals, including the 1986 and 1998 tournaments. Argentina advanced after defeating Switzerland, while England progressed by beating Norway. The match in Atlanta will mark Lionel Messi’s first meeting with England, and both sides prepare for a high‑stakes encounter influenced by decades of rivalry.

Roy Keane predicts England will fall short in their bid for World Cup victory despite reaching the semi-finals after defeating Norway. He highlights Declan Rice’s illness and heavy workload as concerns but notes that squad depth can compensate if needed. Keane praises Thomas Tuchel for decisive in-game management while maintaining doubts about England’s overall chances as they prepare to face Argentina in Atlanta.

Argentina advances to the World Cup semi-finals after an extra-time win over Switzerland, setting up a historic first-ever meeting between Lionel Messi and England. Messi describes the upcoming match as special, while coach Lionel Scaloni emphasizes focus and hard work against a strong opponent. Players and staff reflect on lessons from the challenging quarter-final and vow full commitment as Argentina prepares to face England in Atlanta.

Ian Wright and Roy Keane criticised Alf-Inge Haaland for claiming Norway were robbed following England’s World Cup quarter‑final win, arguing the match was decided by Norway’s mistakes rather than officiating. Wright dismissed complaints about a disallowed goal and suggested England’s victory was deserved, while Keane acknowledged some favourable calls but said none were decisive. FIFA stated there was no evidence the ball struck a Spidercam wire before England’s equaliser. Gary Neville and others echoed that the referee did not influence the result, highlighting England’s superior quality and key performances such as Jude Bellingham’s late winner.

Paul Scholes expresses doubts over Manchester United’s move for Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos, questioning why the club is signing a young player being offloaded by a league rival and suggesting the deal is unlikely to excite supporters. He also highlights concerns about the club’s transfer strategy, noting that additions such as Santos and Ederson may reflect value-focused decision making rather than addressing immediate squad needs. Scholes discusses potential alternatives, including Adam Wharton, and raises uncertainty about Marcus Rashford’s future despite indications he may be given another chance under Michael Carrick. He critiques Rashford’s work rate and reflects on mistakes made by former manager Ruben Amorim, warning that similar issues could undermine his new tenure at AC Milan.

Lamine Yamal expressed his support for Barcelona signing Julian Alvarez, praising the Atletico Madrid striker as an ideal fit for the club. Alvarez’s future remains uncertain following a standout season and his own public comments expressing a desire to leave Atleti, despite a contract running until 2030 and a €500 million release clause. Barcelona, PSG and Arsenal are among the clubs pursuing him, though Atletico maintain they have received no offers and do not intend to sell. Interest is expected to continue as the striker competes for Argentina at the World Cup.

Manchester United are close to signing free‑agent goalkeeper Karl Darlow as experienced backup to Senne Lammens, with the move likely prompting Altay Bayindir’s departure amid interest from Besiktas. Darlow declined new offers from Leeds United after establishing himself as their first choice last season, while Everton and Tottenham also showed interest. Leeds manager Daniel Farke praised Darlow but offered no clarity on his future. United continue a busy transfer window, having already secured midfield additions, while Leeds have also lost goalkeeper Illan Meslier to Arsenal.

Martin Odegaard praised Arsenal teammate Declan Rice as ‘unbelievable’ ahead of Norway’s World Cup quarter-final against England, noting strong performances by both players throughout the tournament. Norway’s squad has faced a minor sickness bug but remains confident following their upset victory over Brazil, with Odegaard and Erling Haaland central to the team’s success. England’s John Terry highlighted the need to limit Odegaard and Haaland to improve England’s chances in their upcoming matchup in Miami, with the winner set to face Argentina or Switzerland in the semi-finals.

Nacho Monreal urged Arsenal to avoid selling Martin Odegaard, calling it a major mistake, and advised strengthening the left wing, suggesting Khvicha Kvaratskhelia or Bradley Barcola as ideal signings. He highlighted the need for more competition for Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli while expressing confidence in Viktor Gyokeres improving in his second season. Arsenal’s ongoing transfer efforts include moves for Bruno Guimaraes and Illan Meslier as the club seeks to build on their Premier League title success.

Bruno Guimaraes has informed Newcastle United that he wants to leave the club to join Arsenal, who are preparing a new offer of up to £60 million. Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta are pushing to complete the signing after a previous verbal bid was rejected. Newcastle have already lost Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon this summer, despite manager Eddie Howe previously insisting that Guimaraes was committed. Arsenal are also set to confirm the free transfer of goalkeeper Illan Meslier as they continue their summer squad rebuild.

Wayne Rooney predicts Ollie Watkins and Ivan Toney could play important roles for England as the World Cup progresses due to the demands on key starters. He urges using natural right‑back Djed Spence against Norway and highlights the need for greater midfield control from Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson. Rooney believes England remain strong contenders for the title, crediting Harry Kane’s leadership and Jude Bellingham’s influential performances while expressing concern over player fatigue and injuries.

Argentina mounted a dramatic comeback to beat Egypt in the World Cup last‑16 after falling 2–0 behind, with Lionel Messi explaining he cried from both relief and frustration over his missed penalty. Goals from Cristian Romero, Messi and Enzo Fernandez sealed the turnaround, keeping the defending champions in the tournament. Messi acknowledged the pressure of the moment, praised the team’s resilience and highlighted the emotional impact shared by both players and staff as they advanced to the quarter‑finals.

Jordan Henderson thanked supporters after suffering a serious wrist injury during England’s celebrations following their World Cup win over Mexico. The midfielder, now ruled out of the remainder of the tournament and set for surgery, was carried off after falling over an advertising barrier. Marc Guehi said Henderson is recovering well and described the incident as frightening. England prepare to face Norway next, with Guehi set to defend against Erling Haaland in the quarter‑finals.

Gary Neville criticised Lisandro Martinez for losing concentration on Egypt’s opening goal as Argentina overturned a two-goal deficit to win their World Cup last-16 match. After missing a penalty through Lionel Messi, Argentina mounted a late comeback with goals from Cristian Romero, Messi and Enzo Fernandez, setting up a quarter-final meeting with either Switzerland or Colombia. Ian Wright highlighted Yasser Ibrahim’s quality header, while Neville praised Fernandez’s decisive contribution.

Arsenal and Liverpool are reportedly preparing bids to trigger the £18.4 million release clause for 17-year-old Mexican forward Gilberto Mora after his standout World Cup performances for Mexico. Club Tijuana expect to lose the highly rated teenager, who has already broken into senior football and impressed against England. Nicky Butt praised Mora’s maturity and predicted he could reach Barcelona’s level within two years.

Kylian Mbappe denounced Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla for a racist social media attack following France’s World Cup win over Paraguay, accusing her of overshadowing her nation’s achievements with bigotry. Her comments echoed earlier racist remarks by former goalkeeper Jose Luis Chilavert, both of which drew widespread criticism. The French Football Federation also condemned Chilavert’s statements as France prepared to continue their World Cup campaign against Morocco.

Gary Neville predicts England will defeat Norway in their World Cup quarter-final despite expecting a difficult match, highlighting the danger posed by Erling Haaland. He praises England’s resilience in their 3–2 win over Mexico and commends the team’s tactical discipline and defensive improvement. Neville singles out Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane for their standout performances, describing Bellingham as world‑class based on his influence throughout the tournament.

FIFA rejected Belgium’s appeal against the suspension of Folarin Balogun’s one‑match ban, confirming the striker is eligible for the USA’s World Cup match against Belgium. The governing body ruled the Belgian FA had no standing to challenge the decision, prompting the federation to criticise the lack of transparency and consider further action. The controversy deepened after confirmation that Donald Trump had discussed the case with FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who insisted the disciplinary process remained fully independent. Balogun’s eligibility stands as the USA prepare for their last‑16 fixture in Seattle.