FIFA president Gianni Infantino has dismissed the possibility of a replacement team entering the 2026 World Cup, insisting there is "no plan B" if Iran decide to withdraw. Despite escalating geopolitical conflict and direct threats of withdrawal from Iranian officials, the governing body remains committed to the Asian nation’s involvement. Infantino confirmed that discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump have taken place to ensure the squad is welcomed on North American soil this June.
Former Wales international James Chester has explained why Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mac may be “the best owners in football”. A couple of Hollywood superstars arrived at Wrexham when completing a stunning takeover in 2021. They have overseen three successive promotions across a five-year reign, with huge investment being made in the football club and local community.
National coach Julian Nagelsmann has warned the DFB squad to adapt their style of play ahead of the World Cup, following their 2-1 victory in a friendly against Ghana.
Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy has launched a blistering attack on the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following their controversial decision to strip the Lions of Teranga of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title and award it to Morocco. The veteran shot-stopper believes administrative failures are actively undermining the immense progress made by the continent's elite players.
Romelu Lukaku has broken his silence regarding the escalating tension between himself and Napoli, insisting he would "never turn his back" on the club. The striker has spent the international break in Belgium recovering from an injury, a move that reportedly left the Partenopei hierarchy frustrated and sparked rumours of a significant fallout.
Craig Bellamy has addressed links to the Celtic job following a crushing blow to his aspirations with the Welsh national team. The 46-year-old has garnered significant praise for his rejuvenation of the squad, guiding them to a World Cup play-off semi-final where they were eventually eliminated on penalties by Bosnia.
Former France international Christophe Dugarry has launched a scathing attack on Rayan Cherki, questioning the immense hype surrounding the Manchester City playmaker. Despite his recent €36.5 million move to England and an impressive debut season across all competitions, the 1998 World Cup winner believes the 22-year-old is far from being the finished article for the national side.
Thomas Tuchel has plotted a diplomatic course through the storm that has followed the withdrawals of Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka from the England squad, saying the optics may look bad but he has “100% trust” in their integrity. The Arsenal duo will be unavailable for the clash against Japan at Wembley after reporting discomfort following their recent club commitments.
Chelsea left-back Marc Cucurella has openly flirted with a potential return to his boyhood club, Barcelona. Speaking during the international break in Catalonia, the Spanish defender admitted that an offer from the Spanish giants would be incredibly tempting. While he remains happy in London for now, his comments raise fresh questions about his long-term future at Stamford Bridge.
ATLANTA -- Mauricio Pochettino insisted his full focus is on the World Cup with the USMNT but did not rule out a future return to Tottenham after being asked about the club’s managerial vacancy following manager Igor Tudor’s dismissal, adding that “never say never” in football. Pochettino last coached Spurs from 2014-19.
Despite being a regular starter for VfB Stuttgart, Deniz Undav is nothing more than a permanent substitute when wearing the DFB jersey. Julian Nagelsmann explains his decisions, whilst Undav provides the perfect response.
Lamine Yamal continues to rewrite the record books for both club and country, but Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente believes the 18-year-old is only scratching the surface of his potential. Speaking ahead of the friendly against Egypt at the RCDE Stadium, the manager reflected on the incredible trajectory the winger has taken since his senior debut.
Barcelona are facing a complex goalkeeping dilemma ahead of the 2026-27 season. While Joan Garcia is the only long-term certainty, sporting director Deco is exploring new targets like Alex Remiro. However, the club must first solve the complicated future of veteran Marc-Andre ter Stegen, whilst also deciding whether to activate a break clause for Wojciech Szczesny this June.
Borussia Dortmund face a massive battle to keep hold of their star defender Waldemar Anton ahead of the upcoming transfer window. Premier League giants Manchester United and La Liga heavyweights Atletico Madrid have both registered a strong interest in acquiring the 29-year-old. Dortmund, however, are desperate to retain his services as he has become an indispensable leader.
The legal team representing Rafa Mir has taken a firm stance by requesting that his upcoming trial be held in public, directly opposing the prosecution's preference for closed-door sessions. Under the guidance of lawyer Jaime Campaner, the defence argues that there is no justification for a private trial and insists on the importance of public scrutiny regarding the evidence presented by the prosecution.
After a poor performance against Belgium, Mauricio Pochettino is demanding more from his team - and a bigger role for Gio Reyna could be one of the key decisions vs Portugal.
In the latest development of a long-running legal battle, a court in Nantes has officially thrown out Cardiff City's claim for £104 million in compensation. The Bluebirds had argued that the death of Emiliano Sala in January 2019 had a direct impact on their sporting success, specifically suggesting that his goals could have prevented their subsequent relegation from the Premier League.
Rio Ferdinand has issued a stark warning to Roberto De Zerbi about taking the vacant managerial role at Tottenham Hotspur. Following Igor Tudor's rapid dismissal, the former Manchester United defender believes the Italian tactician should think carefully before agreeing to step into the chaotic environment in north London, expressing major concerns that the club's board and lack of ambition will ultimately damage his career.
AC Milan have returned to the negotiating table with a fresh proposal for Corinthians midfielder Andre. After seeing previous efforts rebuffed, the Italian giants have now signaled their willingness to pay up to €22 million (£18.5m/$23.3m) to bring the teenager to San Siro, as the club looks to get its business done early.