Cristiano Ronaldo is preparing for what is almost certainly his final dance on the World Cup stage, but his role within the Portugal national team is once again under intense scrutiny. As the Al-Nassr striker eyes the only trophy missing from his glittering cabinet, former USMNT star Taylor Twellman has suggested that his presence actually hinders a squad packed with world-class talent.
Pep Guardiola is reportedly open to taking over as England manager in the future as he begins his life after Manchester City. The legendary coach, who has just ended a trophy-laden decade at the Etihad Stadium, is viewed as the ultimate 'dream' candidate for the Football Association.
Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has jumped to the defence of his long-time international team-mate Neymar, insisting the forward remains vital to Brazil's World Cup ambitions. Despite a fresh injury setback hampering the Santos star’s preparations, Casemiro remains confident that the Selecao's all-time record goalscorer can still dictate terms on the world stage.
Davide Ancelotti has reached a comprehensive agreement to become the new head coach of Ligue 1 outfit Lille, marking his second standalone managerial role. The former Real Madrid assistant will officially succeed Bruno Genesio, who vacated his position at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy in late May following the expiration of his contract.
Ralf Rangnick is reportedly in advanced discussions to spearhead a total overhaul at AC Milan, marking a potential return for the coach several years after his move to San Siro famously collapsed. The 67-year-old has met with Rossoneri chiefs to outline his vision for the club as they look to rebuild after a disappointing campaign.
Mauricio Pochettino has seen prominent coaching posts filled by leading clubs in Europe, so could he stay on as USMNT boss beyond the end of a home World Cup cycle in 2026? Brad Friedel has explained to GOAL how the Argentine - with spells at Tottenham, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain on his CV - can help American soccer to grow and rival established brands in American football, baseball, basketball and ice hockey.
Steve Clarke has officially committed his future to Scotland by signing a long-term contract extension that will see him lead the national team through to the 2030 World Cup. The news comes as a massive boost to the Tartan Army just as the squad prepares to embark on their first World Cup adventure in nearly three decades this summer in the United States.
Brazil have established a firm medical deadline for Neymar to retain his place in Carlo Ancelotti's final World Cup squad following another injury scare. The Santos forward remains a major doubt for upcoming warm-up matches after a grade two calf tear caused significant apprehension during the national team's initial training camp.
Ivan Perisic has told GOAL how the Croatia squad is able to ignore any club rivalries and build a “big family” at international tournaments. Another “very special” opportunity is about to present itself in 2026, as the World Cup takes centre stage, with one group of vastly experienced performers preparing to catch the eye again on and off the field.
Real Madrid starlet Franco Mastantuono faces a nervous wait as he risks being dropped from Argentina's final World Cup squad. Despite reporting for international duty in peak physical condition, the teenage attacker could still be omitted by manager Lionel Scaloni before Sunday's deadline due to purely tactical considerations.
Former England manager Glenn Hoddle has launched a fierce critique against Thomas Tuchel following the omission of Adam Wharton from the World Cup squad. The teenage maestro inspired Crystal Palace to their historic continental victory just days after being overlooked in favour of veteran midfielder Jordan Henderson for the tournament in the United States.
Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Jr has heaped massive praise on Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal ahead of the upcoming World Cup. The Brazil international believes the young Spanish winger possesses such extraordinary talent that he is capable of winning the prestigious international tournament entirely on his own, despite the fierce rivalry between their respective clubs.
Romelu Lukaku has sensationally revealed that the Belgium squad lobbied for Thierry Henry to take over as head coach following the departure of Roberto Martinez. The Napoli striker did not hold back in his assessment of the previous regime, suggesting that the tactical approach under former head coach Domenico Tedesco was destined for failure from the start.
FIFA has been hit with legal subpoenas by authorities in the United States as an investigation is launched into the ticketing practices for the 2026 World Cup. Officials in New York and New Jersey are demanding answers over allegations of "artificially inflating prices" and "misleading fans" ahead of the tournament in North America.
The USMNT World Cup squad is here, but now comes the next question: who starts? GOAL looks at who could line up in Mauricio Pochettino’s XI when the tournament kicks off in June.
Ronald Koeman has officially confirmed his 26-man Netherlands squad for the upcoming World Cup, and the big talking point remains the high-profile omission of Jeremie Frimpong. The wing-back has been left at home as the Oranje boss prioritises reliability and specific tactical profiles for the tournament.
Chelsea striker Joao Pedro has made a sensational claim regarding his club team-mate Cole Palmer, suggesting the England playmaker would be the perfect fit to inherit Neymar's iconic No.10 shirt for Brazil. Both players are facing a summer away from the international spotlight after being left out of their respective final squads for the 2026 World Cup.
The 2026 World Cup is set to be the biggest ever, with the participating teams increasing from 32 to 48, meaning more matches, betting markets, and more betting opportunities. The competition will be held across three countries, including the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Vinicius Junior has opened up on the emotional return of Neymar to the Brazil national team, hailing the Santos forward as a true inspiration for the Selecao. The Real Madrid star revealed the depth of his teammate's struggles during a period of exclusion and injury before finally being named in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.
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