World Cup news

Luis de la Fuente has hailed the incredible work ethic of Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal as the teenager battles to be fit for the 2026 World Cup. Despite being sidelined for the remainder of the domestic season, the Spain manager is confident that the winger will return in time to make a big impact on the international stage.

FIFA have extended Gianluca Prestianni's ban for homophobic conduct globally, meaning he could now miss Argentina's first two games at the 2026 World Cup. The Benfica winger, who was sanctioned following a high-profile clash with Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior, will now see his club-level suspension apply to international competitive fixtures.

The clock is ticking down to a potentially tenure-defining decision for Thomas Tuchel, who will be putting the final touches to his England squad for the 2026 World Cup. However, there is still time for those on the fringes to make a late push into the manager's thinking as the season enters his final weeks. Some, though, stand a much better chance than others.

Tim Weah has always been more than a footballer. He sat down with GOAL to discuss art, identity, storytelling and the role he hopes to play at a home World Cup.

Arsenal and France legend Thierry Henry has weighed in on the eternal debate between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, refusing to separate the two icons. Speaking at a recent event, the former striker compared their enduring rivalry to tennis greats Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal, insisting that both superstars exist in their own footballing galaxy.

Chelsea starlet Estevao Willian has returned to his native Brazil to continue his rehabilitation from a hamstring injury at the facilities of his former club, Palmeiras. The 19-year-old winger is facing a desperate race against time to prove his fitness ahead of the upcoming World Cup, with his place in Carlo Ancelotti's squad currently in serious jeopardy.

Lamine Yamal has taken a major step in his recovery after returning to grass training at Barcelona’s facilities. The teenage forward is following a strict rehabilitation programme after suffering a muscle tear in April. Spain boss Luis de la Fuente is hopeful the winger will still play a key role at the 2026 World Cup.

France legend Thierry Henry has lauded Barcelona and Spain sensation Lamine Yamal, admitting he is "amazed" by the teenager's decision-making on the pitch. Speaking ahead of the 2026 World Cup, the former Barcelona striker expressed his desire to see the La Roja wonderkid at his absolute "peak" at the tournament, as he battles back from a serious injury.

This is Legacy, GOAL’s feature and podcast series that counts down to the 2026 World Cup. Each week, we explore the stories and the spirit behind the nations that define the world’s game. This week, we follow Senegal's Lions of Teranga across two decades of triumph, turbulence and transformation - from the thunderbolt of 2002, to the cruel fair-play exit of 2018, to the continental rise that brought them back stronger in Qatar.

Manchester United have reached a surprising agreement with the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) to rest star forward Matheus Cunha for the remainder of the Premier League season. The move comes as a major boost for Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti, who has been sweating over the fitness of several key players ahead of the World Cup.

Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has thrown his weight behind Neymar making Brazil's 2026 World Cup squad, suggesting the forward is willing to sacrifice his starting spot to chase the trophy. With the Seleção's final roster set to be announced on May 18, the veteran midfielder believes the Santos star still has a vital role to play under Carlo Ancelotti.

Phil Foden and Morgan Gibbs-White have been warned to brace for World Cup heartache, with Chris Waddle telling GOAL which playmakers he would pick if stepping into Thomas Tuchel’s shoes as England boss. The Three Lions are blessed with an abundance of creative options, such as Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers, meaning that some big names are going to be left disappointed.

Brazil icon Cafu has sensationally claimed that Neymar is technically superior to both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as he backed the forward to lead the Selecao at the upcoming World Cup. The legendary right-back, who remains the only man to play in three consecutive World Cup finals, believes a fit Neymar remains the ultimate difference-maker for the Brazil national team.

Chelsea interim manager Calum McFarlane has launched a passionate defence of Cole Palmer amid an injury-hit season for the England international. Despite a recurring groin problem, the 23-year-old remains a pivotal figure for the Blues as he looks to find his best rhythm ahead of this summer's World Cup.