The 2030 World Cup could feature a massive expansion to 64 teams, according to a bold new claim. Following the conclusion of the 48-nation tournament won by Spain, the prospect of an even larger global competition across six host countries is now being openly discussed by high-ranking football executives, setting the stage for a historic centenary celebration.
Indian cricket icon Sourav Ganguly has leaped to the defence of Lionel Messi following Argentina’s agonising defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. The former India captain insisted that the legendary forward’s career legacy remains untouchable despite a difficult night at the MetLife Stadium.
Italy are desperately trying to convince Pep Guardiola to become their new national team manager. Technical director Paolo Maldini and advisor Leonardo recently held face-to-face talks with Guardiola in Barcelona. However, the former Manchester City boss wants to take a break from football, meaning the Italian football federation faces an almost impossible task to hire him.
Manchester United are preparing to unleash one of their most exciting youth prospects in years during their upcoming pre-season clash with Rosenborg. Teenage sensation JJ Gabriel looks set to finally make his senior bow as the club manages his transition into the professional environment.
From discounted tickets and free fan festivals, to 24-hour pitches and a visit to Rikers Island, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani tells GOAL how his administration sought to make the World Cup accessible - and what he hopes it will leave behind.
Ines Garcia has passionately spoken out against the severe online abuse she has faced following Spain's recent World Cup triumph. The partner of Lamine Yamal took to social media to urge her followers for basic human empathy, explaining the heavy emotional toll that the relentless stream of insulting messages has taken on her daily life as she tries to celebrate her relationship.
Manchester City marksman Erling Haaland is currently enjoying a well-earned break from the relentless pace of elite football as he celebrates his 26th birthday. The Norwegian international, who has broken nearly every scoring record in his path since moving to the Premier League, was the subject of an affectionate tribute from his long-term partner as he reached his latest personal milestone.
Brazilian forward Neymar is back on the training pitch with Santos, looking sharp and scoring goals in a recently shared video. The return to domestic action comes swiftly after a heartbreaking exit from the 2026 World Cup, which culminated in his emotional international retirement and intense scrutiny over how his fitness was managed during the tournament.
Spain sensation Lamine Yamal has poked fun at Argentina's Leandro Paredes following the chaotic scenes that marred the end of the 2026 World Cup final. During La Roja's victory parade in Madrid, the teenager was seen holding a sign referencing the midfielder's physical altercation with Gavi.
Lionel Scaloni has addressed speculation surrounding his own future and potential international retirements within the Argentina squad following a heartbreaking World Cup final defeat to Spain. The manager also dismissed conspiracy theories regarding team unity, whilst Lionel Messi skipped public celebrations in Buenos Aires to reflect privately back home.
Aston Villa have emerged as a primary destination for Alejandro Garnacho as the Argentine winger prepares to bring his underwhelming career at Chelsea to an early conclusion. Following a frustrating period at Stamford Bridge, the former Manchester United youngster is now the subject of a concrete approach from the West Midlands club.
Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly set to announce his retirement from international football after one final appearance for Portugal. The forward is expected to bid farewell to the national team in a Nations League match against Wales, concluding a record-breaking career where he became the most capped player and greatest goalscorer in international football history.
One of English football's most high-profile and debated officials is hanging up his whistle after two decades in the middle. Anthony Taylor has officially announced his retirement from refereeing following the conclusion of his duties at the 2026 World Cup.
Lionel Messi decided against travelling to Buenos Aires with the Argentina squad following their heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. The forward bypassed the traditional homecoming celebrations, opting instead for a private journey back to his hometown of Rosario to quietly process the immense emotional toll of the tournament.
Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe has officially been unveiled as the face of EA SPORTS FC 27, marking a triumphant return to the spotlight for the world’s premier football simulation. The French captain’s move to the Santiago Bernabeu has solidified his status as the game's ultimate commercial powerhouse, ending a four-year hiatus from the iconic cover.
Spain's 2026 World Cup win has seen Villarreal winger Alex Baena secure a place in the history books that even the greatest players of all time cannot match. While the headlines at MetLife Stadium focused on the passing of the torch from Lionel Messi to Lamine Yamal, Baena quietly completed a feat never before seen in the men's game.
Luka Modric is preparing to sign a new one-year contract extension with AC Milan and will officially retire from international duty with Croatia this October. The midfielder wants to dedicate his final season entirely to the Italian giants, aiming for a successful swansong after missing out on Champions League football and suffering World Cup heartbreak.
Barcelona reportedly explored the possibility of signing Mason Greenwood before the former Manchester United forward completed his move to Fenerbahce. The Catalan giants had the Englishman on their radar as a potential cut-price option to bolster their attacking ranks during a period of financial restructuring.
Barcelona are preparing to contact the representatives of Aymeric Laporte following his outstanding performances at the recent World Cup. The defender formed a brilliant partnership with Pau Cubarsi as Spain conceded just one goal throughout the entire tournament to lift the trophy, making him a highly attractive, low-cost option to strengthen the Catalan club's defensive line.
Portugal have been warned they could suffer a major loss in attention and revenue once Cristiano Ronaldo ends his international career. A leading marketing expert believes the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) must prepare a new strategy before the five-time Ballon d'Or winner steps away.
Gary Neville has delivered a scathing assessment of Argentina's World Cup final defeat to Spain, insisting Lionel Scaloni's side were fortunate to stay in the contest. The former Manchester United defender also questioned how heavily the reigning champions rely on Lionel Messi.
Thousands of passionate supporters gathered in Buenos Aires to welcome the Argentina squad home following their World Cup final defeat to Spain. Captain Lionel Messi was notably absent from the delegation after electing to fly directly to Miami before taking a short break in Rosario, leaving head coach Lionel Scaloni and 16 players to lead the parade.
Leandro Paredes has broken his silence after Argentina's World Cup final defeat, but avoided addressing his role in the chaotic post-match brawl. The midfielder now faces uncertainty with FIFA set to investigate the ugly scenes despite his red card being removed.
Arsenal have reportedly opened direct negotiations with Newcastle regarding a potential deal for wantaway midfielder Bruno Guimaraes. The 28-year-old Brazil international has informed the Magpies hierarchy of his desire to join the Premier League champions ahead of the new campaign.
And so the 2026 World Cup has come to a close after an enthralling 39 days that saw Spain get their hands on the trophy. Throughout the showpiece tournament in North America, GOAL, in association with eToro, has been tracking the value of some of the world's most sought-after talents. Did their price rise or plummet? Check out the final standings of our unique player value tracker to find out...
Aston Villa have reportedly held surprise discussions regarding a move for Chelsea winger Alejandro Garnacho after sanctioning Morgan Rogers' departure. Unai Emery's side are set to receive a windfall from Rogers' record-breaking £117 million switch to Stamford Bridge, and have immediately started searching for high-profile attacking reinforcements.
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