World Cup news

Mic'd Up: The outspoken analyst lauded Pochettino's approach, but says international game has been a 'rude awakening' for U.S. coach

Former Brazil manager Emerson Leao has launched a fierce attack on Neymar, calling him “not an example to anyone” and claiming the forward is “past his prime”. Leao criticised the 33-year-old's lifestyle, fitness and declining form, reigniting debate over the Santos star’s place in Brazil’s 2026 World Cup plans.

Former Brazil goalkeeper and coach Emerson Leao has launched a scathing critique of Carlo Ancelotti's start as Selecao boss, warning the job is "much more difficult" than managing Spanish giants Real Madrid. Leao claims the Brazil national team is getting "worse and worse" and expressed his disappointment with the state of Brazilian coaching as the World Cup approaches.

Graham Potter has been unveiled as Sweden’s new head coach on a short-term five-month deal - less than a month after being sacked by West Ham. The 50-year-old will oversee the team’s final World Cup qualifiers in November, with his contract extending if Sweden reach the playoffs or the tournament itself. The former Chelsea and Brighton boss has revealed that he was ‘humbled’ by Sweden opting to sign him.

Jurgen Klopp warns Germany against fixating on winning the 2026 World Cup, stressing that global competition is fiercer than ever and nations like France, Spain and England cannot be underestimated. He urges patience, pragmatic planning, and development of versatile players, including an Under 21 league to bridge youth-to-senior gaps, emphasising that consistent growth outweighs overreaction to setbacks or early exits.

Wayne Rooney is backing Harry Maguire for a World Cup recall with England after seeing the Manchester United defender come through “bullying” that saw him become a “meme” at one stage. The commanding centre-half has not enjoyed the easiest of times at Old Trafford, but he was given plenty to smile about when netting a dramatic winner against Liverpool last time out.

Mexican Football Federation president Mikel Arriola says El Tri are aiming to face Portugal in the long-awaited reopening of Estadio Azteca, with only a few technical details left to finalize. He also confirmed plans to take the national team to Central America as part of its 2026 World Cup preparations. Mexico have already faced opponents from Asia and South America in their buildup.

Football Manager and Sports Interactive have confirmed that the FIFA World Cup and other official FIFA tournaments will feature in the game for the first time ever in FM26, as the company has signed an agreement with FIFA for their usage in a move which breaks new ground for lovers of the well-known football game. Announced on Friday, the move to include international football once again will arrive in a free future content update on FM26.

Graham Potter is reportedly on the verge of making a stunning return to management with the Swedish national team. The former Chelsea and West Ham boss has openly admitted his “feelings” for Sweden and is said to be the frontrunner to replace Jon Dahl Tomasson, who was sacked after a disastrous World Cup qualifying campaign left the Scandinavian side bottom of their group.

Spain have strengthened their grip atop the FIFA men's world rankings following the October international window, with the three North American World Cup co-hosts having mixed fortunes. The USMNT remained No. 16 and Mexico held steady at No. 14, while Canada dropped two positions to 28th in the latest rankings by football's governing body.

It's difficult to overstate Cole Palmer's importance to Chelsea, but it's probably reflected in how determined head coach Enzo Maresca has been to have him at his disposal this season despite a persistent, niggling groin injury. The Blues have now paid a significant price for that over-reliance on the 23-year-old, with the attacker - who has already been sidelined for close to a month - now ruled out until December, in a crushing blow to his club and his World Cup hopes.

Declan Rice has opened up on England's World Cup ambitions, with the Arsenal midfielder taking on a "leadership" role under Thomas Tuchel. Fresh from sealing World Cup qualification in ruthless fashion, Rice insists that the squad's hunger and maturity have reached new heights. The Three Lions are dreaming big and are ready to do what it takes to bring back the global crown.

With excitement building for the 2026 World Cup, more than one million tickets have already been sold following the conclusion of the pre-sale draw phase, according to FIFA. Supporters from 212 countries and territories have already secured tickets, underscoring the global appeal of the sport’s most prestigious event.

The 2026 World Cup will create a $4.5 billion sponsorship economy for the 13 cities in the United States and Canada set to host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to a report by SponsorUnited released this week. The report provides a detailed look at how the cities fit within the broader sponsorship systems shaping North American sports.

With the World Cup just eight months away, GOAL looks at how the U.S. squad might look next summer

The FA will reportedly approach David Beckham to discuss using Inter Miami's training centre ahead of the 2026 World Cup. England booked their trip Stateside on Tuesday night as they battered Latvia in Riga to make it six wins from six. And while the showpiece event is months away, England are already making preparations for the World Cup in North America next summer.

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has set his sights on achieving "what every Brazilian dreams of: winning the World Cup after 24 years." The Italian manager spoke about next year's tournament and explained the reasons behind accepting such a high-profile international job. Ancelotti spent four years at Real Madrid before calling curtains on his chapter in Spain at the end of last season.