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World Cup

World Cup news

David Beckham Steven Gerrard Harry Kane Declan Rice England

Golden Generation: Owen names stars that improve 2026 England

Michael Owen has, during an exclusive interview with GOAL, picked two players from England’s ‘Golden Generation’ that would improve the Three Lions’ class of 2026 and aid their bid for World Cup glory. The ex-Liverpool and Real Madrid striker has also debated whether Harry Kane and Declan Rice could oust the likes of Wayne Rooney and Steven Gerrard from an iconic team of the past.

McTominay

Bank of Scotland unveils McTominay £20 note

Scott McTominay's legendary status in Scottish football has reached a new level after his iconic overhead kick against Denmark was chosen to feature on a new limited edition £20 banknote. The Bank of Scotland revealed the unique design to celebrate the national team's successful qualification for the World Cup, marking their first appearance at the tournament in 28 years.

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Inter Miami CF v Philadelphia Union

Is Messi a World Cup doubt? Inter Miami boss delivers injury update

Lionel Messi has sparked major injury fears just weeks before the 2026 World Cup after asking to come off during Inter Miami's chaotic 10-goal thriller against Philadelphia Union. The Argentina captain headed straight for the tunnel with a suspected muscle issue, prompting the Herons boss to deliver a crucial update on his star player's fitness.

Neymar Ancelotti

Ancelotti blasted for 'absurd' Neymar 2026 World Cup call-up

Carlo Ancelotti is already feeling the heat as Brazil manager before a ball has even been kicked at the 2026 World Cup. The Italian's decision to include veteran star Neymar in his final squad has been labelled "absurd" by a former Selecao international, who has called the Santos star's recent performance levels into question.

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World Cup tears! Neymar ‘cried all night’ while wife slept

Neymar's return to the Brazilian national team was not just a sporting milestone, but a moment of profound personal emotion for the number 10. The Santos star opened up about the intensity of his feelings upon securing his place in the squad that will compete in the 2026 World Cup under the command of Carlo Ancelotti.

Messi Ronaldo split 2025

Scolari reveals why he prefers 'genius' Ronaldo over Messi

Luiz Felipe Scolari opened up about the eternal rivalry between Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, revealing previously unknown details of his relationship with the Portuguese captain. The former national team coach explained the emotional and professional reasons behind his choices in the polls for the best player in the world.

Qatar v IR Iran - FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier

Iran move World Cup base to Mexico

Iran has successfully lobbied FIFA to relocate its 2026 World Cup training headquarters from the United States to Mexico. The decision comes as regional tensions and security logistics prompted the Iranian federation to seek an alternative to their original plans in Arizona.

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DR Congo defiant over USA World Cup warning

The Democratic Republic of Congo have sensationally rejected a demand from the United States government to enter a 21-day isolation period ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Despite threats that the team could be denied entry into the country following an Ebola outbreak in the African nation, Congolese officials insist their preparation schedule will remain unchanged.

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Edouard explains classy World Cup snub

Odsonne Edouard has opened up on his decision to turn down a guaranteed place at the upcoming World Cup finals. The former Paris Saint-Germain and Celtic forward was offered the chance to represent Haiti on the global stage but opted to decline the invitation for selfless reasons.

England v Japan - International Friendly

Tuchel confirms England security plans to avoid Spygate

Thomas Tuchel has revealed that England will implement heightened security measures at their World Cup training base to prevent any "Spygate" scandals during the tournament in the United States. Following the shock expulsion of Southampton from the Championship play-offs for spying on Middlesbrough, the Three Lions boss is determined to protect his tactical secrets from group-stage rivals Croatia, Panama and Ghana.

Germany Public Training Session And Press Conference - UEFA EURO 2024

'He's the best!' - Nagelsmann defended over controversial Neuer claim

Germany legends Lothar Matthaus and Roman Weidenfeller have both publicly endorsed Julian Nagelsmann's shock decision to restore Manuel Neuer as the nation’s primary goalkeeper for the 2026 World Cup. The Bayern Munich veteran has sensationally stepped out of international retirement to lead Die Mannschaft in North America, displacing Hoffenheim’s Oliver Baumann in the process.

Noel Gallagher Pep Guardiola Man City 2018

Oasis legend Gallagher backs Guardiola for England job

Manchester City fans are still reeling from the news that their legendary leader is finally moving on, but a familiar voice has already mapped out a sensational next step. Oasis star Noel Gallagher believes that after conquering the club game, the tactical genius will set his sights on the one major trophy missing from his cabinet: the World Cup.