Moataz Elgammal

France manager Didier Deschamps has fiercely defended Ousmane Dembele following an impressive display against Iraq. The Ballon d'Or winner faced heavy criticism after a quiet performance against Senegal, where he failed to register a shot on target. However, he silenced doubters with a goal and an assist, proving why he recently led Paris Saint-Germain to European glory.

Real Madrid have officially completed the signing of Swedish teenage sensation Felicia Schroder from BK Hacken for a world-record fee in women's football. The 19-year-old striker has signed a four-year contract with the Spanish giants until 2030, a move that leaves Chelsea frustrated after their earlier record-breaking bid was ultimately unsuccessful in securing her signature.

Luis Suarez has lauded Lionel Messi following his record-breaking exploits for Argentina at the 2026 World Cup. The Inter Miami striker expressed his joy at seeing his close friend perform at the highest level after Messi became the outright top scorer in World Cup history. Suarez insisted that watching Messi play remains an absolute pleasure as the team target tournament glory.

Former Chelsea captain John Terry has expressed his immense frustration after being overlooked for the interim managerial role at Stamford Bridge twice last season. Speaking out about the club's decision to appoint inexperienced academy coach Calum McFarlane over him, Terry insists that no one at the club possessed better qualifications or a deeper connection to the team.

AS Roma supporters have launched an online petition to block the club from signing Mason Greenwood. Fans are fiercely opposing the potential transfer due to his past off-field controversies, urging the Italian side to align with their core values and avoid acquiring a player they view as a highly divisive figure in modern football.

Tottenham captain Cristian Romero has downplayed fears of a serious knee injury after being forced off during Argentina's 2-0 World Cup victory over Austria. Romero was substituted early in the second half but remains optimistic about his recovery for the final group match, offering reassurance to both Argentina and Tottenham amid growing concerns about his long-term fitness.

Joao Cancelo has passionately defended his team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo and Brazil star Neymar from intense media criticism at the World Cup. The Portugal defender insists that both players have already cemented their legacies in football and do not need to prove their worth to anyone, despite Ronaldo's slow start and Neymar's recent injury woes in the tournament.

France star Kylian Mbappe has fiercely defended his international team-mate Ousmane Dembele following criticism of the winger's performance against Senegal. Speaking ahead of France's second 2026 World Cup fixture against Iraq, the Real Madrid forward reminded everyone of Dembele's tactical value and Ballon d'Or status, while also opening up on the pressures of captaincy and Michael Olise's impact.

Roy Keane has firmly dismissed the glowing praise directed at Thomas Tuchel following England's dramatic 4-2 World Cup victory over Croatia in Group L. While several players lauded the manager for an inspiring half-time team talk that seemed to change the game, Keane insists Tuchel was merely fulfilling the basic requirements of his role and believes the reaction has been entirely blown out of proportion.

Wayne Rooney has heaped massive praise on Lamine Yamal after the Barcelona youngster inspired Spain to a dominant 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia at the 2026 World Cup. The teenage sensation scored his first tournament goal within 10 minutes, and Manchester United legend Rooney was left completely amazed by his overall impact before he was taken off at half-time.

Barcelona have reportedly identified Manchester United's Benjamin Sesko as a potential summer transfer target if they fail to land Julian Alvarez. The Liga champions are desperately seeking a prolific striker to replace the departing Robert Lewandowski, but negotiations with Atletico Madrid over a blockbuster move for Alvarez are proving extremely difficult.

Manchester United are reportedly exploring a five-man striker shortlist to support Benjamin Sesko next season. While the club view prolific Nigerian star Victor Osimhen as their absolute dream target, they face a massive financial hurdle. The sheer cost required to lure him away from Galatasaray is forcing the Red Devils to seriously consider cheaper alternatives.

Netherlands midfielder Frenkie de Jong has opened up about his deep admiration for Lionel Messi, describing the Argentine legend as the "perfect footballer". The Barcelona star reflected on his childhood days watching Messi shine under Pep Guardiola, revealing how incredibly special it felt to eventually share the pitch with his idol during their time together at Camp Nou.

Francisco Conceicao has insisted that Portugal players do not feel "obligated" to pass the ball to Cristiano Ronaldo at the 2026 World Cup. Speaking ahead of their crucial clash against Uzbekistan, the Juventus winger insisted the veteran striker is simply part of the collective group aiming to bounce back and succeed on the grandest stage in international football.

Manchester United have agreed a lucrative deal to feature in Amazon Prime Video's popular 'All or Nothing' documentary series for the 2026-27 season. Former Everton chief executive Keith Wyness claims the Old Trafford giants could pocket a staggering £25 million from the record-breaking agreement, which will offer fans unprecedented behind-the-scenes access.

Michael Olise has established himself as one of the best wingers in world football for Bayern Munich and France, but the talented attacker has surprisingly revealed that playing out wide is not his preferred role. The 24-year-old, who is currently starring at the 2026 World Cup, explained that he feels most comfortable and natural operating centrally as a traditional number 10.

Egypt manager Hossam Hassan has moved quickly to dismiss rumours of a rift with captain Mohamed Salah after substituting the former Liverpool superstar during their opening 2026 World Cup fixture against Belgium. Salah was surprisingly taken off in the 76th minute with the match tied at 1-1, prompting widespread speculation of a fallout between the talisman and his coach.

Former Arsenal and Chelsea defender Ashley Cole is set to leave his role as head coach of Serie B side Cesena after managing just eight matches. Following a disastrous spell that saw the club miss out on the play-offs, the Englishman is expected to be sacked when his short-term contract expires at the end of the month, ending a miserable first managerial stint in Italy.