Lionel Messi could have represented Brazil instead of Argentina, according to a three-year historical investigation into his maternal lineage. The Inter Miami star, who inspired La Albiceleste to the 2026 World Cup final before suffering a 1-0 defeat to Spain, was also eligible to play for Italy and Spain during his iconic career.
Manchester United have invited Marcus Rashford to appear in the club's Amazon documentary, despite ongoing uncertainty about his future. The move has raised fresh questions over whether the England forward could yet remain at Old Trafford for the 2026-27 season.
Andrea Pirlo is set to be named the new Italy head coach early next week after agreeing terms on a four-year contract. The former World Cup winner emerged as the primary candidate for the national team job after Carlo Ancelotti and Pep Guardiola declined the federation's initial approaches, paving the way for his return to the Azzurri set-up.
Manchester United have reportedly received a major boost in their pursuit of Aurelien Tchouameni after Real Madrid softened their stance on the midfielder's future. The French international could now become the final piece of the Red Devils' midfield reinforcements if a £68 million deal can be agreed.
Australia forward Cristian Volpato has reportedly tested positive for cocaine after being stopped twice for speeding in Sydney. The 22-year-old Sassuolo winger had his international driver's licence suspended by local police following the early-morning incidents, prompting Football Australia and the players' union to pledge their support.
Juan Roman Riquelme has hailed Lionel Messi following Argentina's run to the 2026 World Cup final, even suggesting the captain may have surpassed Diego Maradona. The Boca president also praised Lionel Scaloni before offering his verdict on Argentina's defeat to Spain.
Michael Olise finds himself at the centre of one of the summer's biggest transfer stories after starring for France at the World Cup, but all is not as it seems. Various reports have claimed that the Bayern Munich dynamo is Real Madrid's priority target, with the move even endorsed by his compatriot and current 'Galactico', Kylian Mbappe. The reality, though, is that any deal is currently a non-starter.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has brushed off transfer speculation linking Rodri with Real Madrid, insisting every manager in world football wants the midfielder. The Spain captain is set to undergo surgery on a back issue following his World Cup triumph, leaving his future unresolved as he enters the final year of his contract at the Etihad.
Nicky Butt has criticised Manchester United's season ticket restrictions after supporters were caught up in the club's anti-touting crackdown. The former Red Devils midfielder believes genuine fans should be allowed to share tickets with family and friends without facing penalties.
