Hearts sensation Claudio Braga has seen his stock rise meteorically this season, and the 26-year-old striker now finds himself on the verge of a dream Portugal call-up. As Roberto Martinez monitors the forward's progress in Scotland ahead of the 2026 World Cup, a unique conundrum has emerged regarding his goal celebration, which he copied from Cristiano Ronaldo.
Santos head coach Cuca has lifted the lid on a specialized medical roadmap designed to propel Brazil icon Neymar toward the 2026 World Cup in peak physical condition. The 34-year-old superstar used the recent international break to undergo a regenerative knee procedure, as the club looks to fill his tank for a gruelling run of fixtures ahead of the tournament in North America.
Tennis world number one Jannik Sinner has admitted he would be willing to sacrifice one of his prestigious titles if it meant seeing the Italian national team back at the World Cup. The Azzurri’s footballing crisis reached a new low this week as they failed to qualify for a third consecutive tournament, leaving fans and sporting icons across the country in a state of shock.
As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup begins, Brazilian tennis sensation Joao Fonseca has publicly backed Neymar Jr. for a place in the national squad. Despite recent fitness Santos, the teenager believes the veteran’s immense experience is vital for the Selecao’s success. This endorsement serves as a timely reminder for Carlo Ancelotti regarding the unique intangible qualities the former Barcelona playmaker still offers.
Jack Wilshere has made a passionate case for Arsenal’s teenage sensation Max Dowman to be included in England’s 2026 World Cup squad, insisting that rivals like Spain would not hesitate to cap such a precocious talent. The former Gunners midfielder, who now manages Luton Town, believes the 16-year-old possesses a level of natural ability that even exceeds his own breakthrough years at the Emirates.
Italy's failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup has been compounded by reports of a pre-match financial dispute. Italy players reportedly requested a massive bonus just days before their shocking elimination in Zenica.
Mikel Arteta has admitted that Italy's failure to qualify for the World Cup is "not good for football" as he prepares to help Riccardo Calafiori move on. The Arsenal boss is currently readying his squad for an FA Cup quarter-final clash against Southampton following a turbulent international break.
Former Germany head coach Joachim Low has broken his silence regarding reports that he is set to manage Ghana at the 2026 World Cup. The 66-year-old has been out of the dugout since leaving the DFB in 2021 and is currently being linked with a sensational return to the international stage.
