Lists

Newcastle fans can be forgiven for experiencing a strange and unwanted feeling of deja vu this week. After being linked heavily with an exciting young attacker throughout the build-up to this summer’s transfer window, Liverpool have snuck in at the last and pipped them to the post - again. Last year, it was Hugo Ekitike; this year, it is Victor Munoz.

Jude Bellingham admitted that sometimes he "deserves" the criticism that comes his way after starring in England's 4-2 win over Croatia at the 2026 World Cup. The Real Madrid star was among the scorers as the Three Lions began their group stage campaign in style, and after the final whistle, he took the opportunity to address the scrutiny he has faced in recent months.

The family of Lionel Messi have confirmed that the Argentina captain's father, Jorge Messi, is currently "dealing with a health issue" that has required medical supervision. In a strongly-worded statement, the family hit out at the "irresponsible" speculation that has emerged regarding Jorge's condition during the 2026 World Cup in North America.

Edinson Cavani has reportedly agreed to tear up his contract with Argentinian giants Boca Juniors but wants to keep playing aged 39. The iconic striker follows fellow former Manchester United star Ander Herrera out the door in Buenos Aires, cutting his spell short ahead of a major squad overhaul.

Australian forward Sam Kerr is reportedly heading back to the NWSL. After six trophy-filled seasons with Chelsea, five Women's Super League titles and two Golden Boots, the Australia international has reportedly agreed to rejoin Gotham FC. Kerr previously starred in the NWSL with Sky Blue FC, Chicago and Western New York, leaving as the league's all-time leading scorer.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s family have jumped to his defence following Portugal's disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their 2026 World Cup opener. As the legendary forward faces a barrage of criticism for his lacklustre performance in Houston, his sisters have taken to social media to deflect the blame.

St. Andrew's is set to play host to some of the biggest names in world football this summer as Barcelona confirm a glamour friendly against Tom Brady's Birmingham City. The Catalan giants will head to the West Midlands as part of their pre-season preparations, marking a significant coup for the Championship outfit and their high-profile ownership regime.

Thousands of Argentina fans turned Kansas City into a Lionel Messi pilgrimage, with banderazos, late-night parties and unwavering support ahead of the World Cup opener.

Canada have received a significant fitness boost ahead of their crucial World Cup clash against Qatar, with head coach Jesse Marsch confirming that captain Alphonso Davies is available for selection. The Bayern Munich star has been sidelined with a hamstring injury since early May, leaving his participation in the home tournament in doubt until now.

Ex-Liverpool and Germany midfielder Dietmar Hamann has sparked controversy by claiming that the "jury is out" on Harry Kane’s ability to perform in high-stakes matches at major tournaments. Despite the England captain netting twice in an emphatic 4-2 World Cup opening victory over Croatia, Hamann remains unconvinced by his credentials against elite opposition.

Brazil have officially confirmed that Neymar will play no part in their upcoming World Cup fixture against Haiti, with the superstar forward set to remain behind while his teammates travel to Philadelphia. The Santos man is still working his way back to full fitness, and the Selecao medical staff have decided against taking any unnecessary risks with their talisman.

DR Congo midfielder Ngal’ayel Mukau has delivered a brutally honest assessment of Cristiano Ronaldo’s current abilities, suggesting the Portugal icon no longer requires special tactical attention. The blunt comments came in the wake of a historic 1-1 draw between the two nations at the 2026 World Cup.

Classic inspiration meets modern flair in South Africa’s 2026 kits.

Portugal boss Roberto Martinez has stood firm in his support of Cristiano Ronaldo despite the veteran striker enduring a frustrating afternoon in their 2026 World Cup opener. The Selecao were held to a shock 1-1 draw by DR Congo in Houston and Ronaldo played the full 90 minutes despite struggling to affect the game, leaving fans and pundits questioning the captain's continued presence in the starting XI.

Barcelona and Chelsea are reportedly set to go head-to-head for the signature of Juventus star Andrea Cambiaso. Despite a season of mixed form in Turin, the 26-year-old left-back remains one of the most coveted defenders on the continent ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.

Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez is reportedly closing in on a move to the Saudi Pro League to link up with national team captain Cristiano Ronaldo. The Spaniard's tenure with the Selecao appears set to conclude following the 2026 World Cup, with Al-Nassr emerging as his likely next destination.

Ivory Coast striker Elye Wahi will miss his side's World Cup clash with Germany after being denied entry to Canada amid an ongoing criminal investigation in France. The 23-year-old remains in the United States while authorities examine allegations linked to suspicious betting activity during a Ligue 1 match earlier this year.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s relentless drive to break records is starting to hinder Portugal’s tactical flexibility at the 2026 World Cup, according to former Manchester United team-mate Louis Saha. The legendary striker has come under fire following a sluggish performance in his country’s opening match, sparking a massive debate over his starting role.

Jude Bellingham has proven once again why he is considered one of football’s most genuine characters after sending a touching farewell gift to departing Real Madrid star Caroline Weir. The Scotland international is bringing the curtain down on a historic four-year spell in the Spanish capital following the expiration of her contract.

Feyenoord technical director Devy Rigaux has explained the club's decision to part ways with Robin van Persie, insisting it was driven by data and performance trends rather than emotion. The Dutch giants concluded that results and on-pitch dominance had declined, leading them to appoint Giovanni van Bronckhorst as the man they believe can deliver long-term success.

AC Milan have reportedly identified former Borussia Dortmund chief Sebastian Kehl as a primary candidate to lead their sporting revolution under new manager Ruben Amorim. Following a disappointing campaign that saw the Rossoneri part ways with their previous sporting leadership, the club is moving quickly to finalise a boardroom structure that aligns with Amorim's modern tactical vision.

Brazil defender Danilo believes Neymar's presence alone can transform the Selecao, even as the forward continues his recovery from injury. With Carlo Ancelotti's side under pressure after dropping points in their opening match, Brazil are hoping their talisman can return soon and provide the attacking spark they currently lack.

Peter Schmeichel has launched a scathing attack on Roberto Martinez, accusing the Portugal boss of repeating the same mistakes that saw him "waste" Belgium's golden generation. The legendary Manchester United goalkeeper was left fuming after a toothless Selecao were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by DR Congo in their 2026 World Cup opener.

Marc Cucurella has broken his silence following his blockbuster move to Real Madrid, revealing that an encouraging phone call from Jose Mourinho helped pave the way. Despite his deep-rooted ties to Barcelona's famed La Masia academy, the 27-year-old left-back insisted he could not turn down the chance to join the most successful club in Europe.

Arsenal are exploring a move for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his attacking options. The Gunners are currently leading the race for the France international, although Liverpool are also monitoring his situation. The winger is reportedly keen on a Premier League switch as uncertainty grows over his future in Paris.

England will face Greece in the first round of Women's World Cup qualifying play-offs in October, having failed to secure direct entry into next summer's tournament. Defeat to Spain in June proved extremely costly for the Lionesses, allowing the world champions to top the qualifying group instead, and now Sarina Wiegman's side must navigate two rounds of two-legged play-offs instead, starting against Greece.

Thomas Tuchel enjoyed a winning start to life as England manager at the 2026 World Cup, but the German was left far from happy with the pre-match scenes. Despite a 4-2 victory over Croatia in Arlington, the former Chelsea boss has remarkably called on FIFA to rethink their stadium protocols after a personal milestone was soured by pitchside distractions.

Real Madrid have confirmed the signing of Ibrahima Konate on a free transfer following his departure from Liverpool. The France international has agreed a four-year contract at the Santiago Bernabeu, becoming the latest addition to the club's squad as they continue to strengthen key areas ahead of the new season.

Brazil icon Cafu has waded into the eternal debate regarding the greatest players to ever grace the pitch, identifying the specific traits that separate the elite from the rest of the pack. While the usual suspects from Argentina and Brazil dominate his rankings, the legendary full-back has insisted that a fourth name deserves to be mentioned in the same breath as Lionel Messi, Diego Maradona, and Pele.