Bayern Munich have won the first serious test of this pre-season: in Hong Kong, they secured a 2-1 victory against Europa League winners Aston Villa. What stood out?
Michael Carrick has helped to turn Manchester United’s fortunes around, but Lee Sharpe has sounded a trophy-winning warning to the Red Devils’ new permanent boss. A return to the Champions League party will be enjoyed in 2026-27, but pressure will build on the man at the helm if major silverware falls out of reach across domestic and continental competition.
Newcastle have agreed to sell captain Bruno Guimaraes to Arsenal in a £75 million deal. The Brazilian midfielder forced the move after emotionally informing the club hierarchy that he no longer wanted to play on Tyneside.
Harry Kane has been advised to use Cristiano Ronaldo as a World Cup warning, with Chris Waddle telling GOAL that involvement with England at the 2030 World Cup will be a “big ask” for the Three Lions’ record-shattering captain. Kane is showing no sign of slowing down, with club and country, but questions continue to be asked of his international future.
Lamine Yamal has been making the most of his summer break in Colombia following Spain's World Cup victory. The Barcelona star was seen wearing a Colombian national team kit while singing on stage alongside famous music artists and content creators in Medellin.
Arsenal's pursuit of Vinicius Junior always seemed like a stretch. It emerged in a bombshell revelation in late July that the Gunners were 'exploring' the possibility of striking a deal for the Real Madrid superstar as they seek to make a marquee left-wing signing, but those explorations ultimately came to nothing as he agreed a new contract at the Bernabeu. So, where do they turn next?