Which player has the most assists in World Cup history ahead of the 2026 tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada? The tournament has been graced by some of the most mercurial players to ever play the game, but which of them have laid on the most goals for their team-mates? And could there be a new assists king come the end of the summer?
Arsenal’s Premier League title charge and England’s World Cup preparations have been dealt a massive blow following a significant injury to Ben White. The versatile defender was forced to withdraw during the first half of Sunday's clash against West Ham United, leaving both Mikel Arteta and Thomas Tuchel sweating over his fitness.
Fran Kirby's achievements throughout her career to date make for remarkable reading. Part of the Lionesses side which beat Germany in the European Championship final at Wembley back in 2022, the 32-year-old also lifted 16 major honours during her incredible nine-year stay at Chelsea, with individual accolades galore coming in and amongst all of that. She was there for England's first major title and Chelsea's first major title; now, in Brighton colours, Kirby will hope she can help another ambitious side hit new heights.
Aitana Bonmati has won each of the last three Ballons d'Or Feminin - but the accolade will go to someone else in 2026. Will it be two-time winner and fellow Barcelona star Alexia Putellas who reasserts herself as the best player in the women's game? Or could there be a new name on the honour roll when the Golden Ball is handed out in Paris in October?
Tottenham Hotspur captain Bethany England has confirmed she will leave the club at the end of the season, bringing a three-and-a-half-year spell in north London to an end. The 31-year-old forward announced the news in a tearful video message to supporters after the club opted against renewing her current contract.
Chelsea captain and former Lionesses star Millie Bright has announced her immediate retirement from football, following on from her international retirement earlier this season. Bright has spent the last 12 years with the Blues, winning 20 trophies, and hangs up her boots as an eight-time Women's Super League champion, the division's all-time record appearance holder and a European Championship winner.
Manchester United, often simply referred to as "United," are one of the most iconic and successful football clubs in the world, based in Old Trafford, Greater Manchester, England. The club was founded as Newton Heath LYR Football Club in 1878 by the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway depot at Newton Heath. The team changed its name to Manchester United in 1902 and moved to its current home, Old Trafford, in 1910.
Famous players
Manchester United have been home to some of the greatest footballers in history. Sir Bobby Charlton, a World Cup winner with England in 1966, is arguably the most iconic figure in the club's history. Other legendary players include George Best, known for his flair and skill, and Eric Cantona, who brought a winning mentality to the club during the 1990s. More recent stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney, and Paul Scholes have also contributed significantly to the club's success.
Honours
Manchester United are one of the most decorated clubs in English football, having won a record 20 Premier League titles (formerly the First Division). They have also lifted the FA Cup 12 times, the League Cup five times, and the UEFA Champions League three times. The club's dominance in English football was particularly evident during the 1990s and early 2000s under manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
Managers
Sir Alex Ferguson is undoubtedly the most successful manager in Manchester United's history. He spent 26 years at the club, leading them to an unprecedented era of success. Before Ferguson, managers like Matt Busby and Wilf McGuinness played crucial roles in shaping the club's identity. More recent managers, including David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, and José Mourinho, have faced the challenge of maintaining the club's high standards.
Stadium
Old Trafford, often referred to as the "Theatre of Dreams," is one of the most famous stadiums in the world. With a capacity of roughly 75,000, it is among the largest football stadiums in the United Kingdom. The stadium has hosted numerous major matches, including UEFA Champions League finals and FIFA World Cup matches.
Location
Manchester United are based in the city of Manchester, which is located in the northwest of England. The club's home ground, Old Trafford, is situated in the Trafford borough. Manchester is a major industrial city with a rich footballing heritage.
Owners
In February 2024, British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe's company, INEOS, acquired a significant 25% stake in Manchester United. This acquisition granted Ratcliffe sporting control over the club, placing him in a position to influence key decisions related to its operations.
Ratcliffe has already made a substantial financial commitment to Manchester United. His large investments demonstrate his dedication to the club's success and his willingness to provide the necessary resources for its growth.
Frequently asked questions
When do the USMNT play?
The US Men’s national team plays throughout the year during designated international breaks in the domestic soccer calendar. Each year, they play a series of international friendlies and qualification games, with major tournaments occurring every two to four years.
Which major tournaments do the USMNT play in?
The USMNT can qualify for a number of tournaments. Continentally, and providing they qualify, the nation plays in the CONCACAF Gold Cup every two years alongside the CONCACAF Nations League.
Outside of that, they can also qualify for the Copa America and the FIFA World Cup.
Who are the most capped USMNT players?
The men’s national team have had some real stars over the years, with Cobi Jones having won the most caps during his career. He picked up 164, just beating the legendary Landon Donovan on 157. Michael Bradley (151), Clint Dempsey (141) and Jeff Agoos (134) complete the top five most capped USMNT players.
Who has TV streaming rights to the FIFA World Cup?
As yet it remains to seen who will have the full TV rights to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the US. TV rights for the 2022 World Cup were exclusive to FOX and Telemundo, with Spanish language available of Telemundo snd Universo. Streaming-wise, the likes of fubo. Peacock, Sling TV, and YouTube TV previously aired games, but the bidding war hasn't been won yet, ahead of the 2026 tournament.
When is the next Gold Cup?
The Gold Cup is held every two years. The last was held in 2023 meaning the next opportunity to watch USMNT play in that particular tournament in 2025.
Who is the head coach of the USMNT?
Head coach of the USMNT is Mauricio Pochettino. The Argentine took over in September of 2024, winning five out of his first six games in charge. Previously, Pochettino has managed English Premier League clubs Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur, before leaving for Paris Saint-Germain. After 18 months with the French giants, he once again returned to England to take over at Chelsea, before moving to the States as head national coach.