World Cup

World Cup news

Cristiano Ronaldo Roberto Martinez split 2025

‘Very natural’ - How Ronaldo will be managed at 2026 World Cup

Roberto Martinez has opened up on how Portugal intend to handle Cristiano Ronaldo during the 2026 World Cup, insisting the approach will be "very natural." As the legendary forward prepares for what is expected to be his final appearance on the world stage, his international manager has clarified that traditional club metrics will not apply in the heat of a tournament.

Eli Junior Kroupi Bournemouth 2025-26

Portugal asked Kroupi about allegiance switch from France

Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez has revealed that the national team made a formal approach for Bournemouth's teenage sensation Eli Junior Kroupi ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The 19-year-old forward, who boasts an impressive Premier League record this season, ultimately chose to stick with the French setup, ending Portugal's hopes of a high-profile international transfer.

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Ancelotti told Neymar he'll have to accept Brazil bench role

Carlo Ancelotti has integrated Neymar into his 2026 World Cup plans, but the veteran forward has been forced to accept a significantly reduced status within the Selecao camp. The Italian coach held a high-stakes video call with the Santos star to lay down the law before confirming his final 26-man roster.

Neymar

đŸŽ„ | Neymar shares tearful reaction to Brazil World Cup call-up

Neymar could not hold back his tears after being officially named in Brazil's squad for the 2026 World Cup. The emotional veteran forward shared a heartfelt video celebrating the momentous occasion surrounded by his partner Bruna Biancardi and close friends, marking a triumphant return to the international stage following a difficult battle with injury.

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Legacy England 2002 GFX

LEGACY: How England 'losers' blew 2002 World Cup hopes

This is Legacy, GOAL’s feature and podcast series counting 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 explore what England must learn from their failure to claim glory in 2002, and why Thomas Tuchel’s task ahead is not about tactics, but about belief, identity, and courage on the biggest stage.

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Ancelotti names Neymar in Brazil World Cup squad

Neymar has been named in Brazil’s World Cup squad despite doubts over his fitness. Carlo Ancelotti backed the veteran forward’s experience as several attacking players missed out on selection, including Chelsea forward Joao Pedro.

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'Best season of my career' - Lyon star reacts to France World Cup snub

Corentin Tolisso has expressed his deep disappointment at missing out on a place in Didier Deschamps' France squad for the 2026 World Cup despite enjoying his most productive season to date. The Lyon captain finds himself in the wilderness alongside several other high-profile stars as Les Bleus prepare to challenge for football's biggest prize this summer.

Santos v Bragantino - Brasileirao 2026

Brazil relied on Neymar for ‘too long’, says Cafu

Brazil legend Cafu believes the Selecao have hindered their own pursuit of a sixth world title by placing an unfair burden of responsibility on Neymar for over a decade. The legendary full-back argued that the lack of a supporting cast around the Santos forward has been the primary reason for the nation’s 24-year trophy drought on the global stage.

Spain v Egypt - International Friendly

Revealed: How many Spain matches Yamal is likely to miss at World Cup

Lamine Yamal is reportedly set to miss the start of Spain's World Cup campaign as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury. The Barcelona superstar will definitely sit out the Euro 2024 winners' first group game in North America, and he is a major doubt for the second, with the Spain coaching staff taking cautious steps regarding his integration.

Neymar - Romeo Beckham

Neymar reveals Brazil jacket gift from Beckham's son Romeo

Neymar has reiterated his burning desire to represent Brazil at the 2026 World Cup as he faces a nervous wait for Carlo Ancelotti’s squad announcement. The Santos superstar also took time to explain the story behind an eye-catching yellow jacket he wore after his latest match, revealing it was a personal gift from Sir David Beckham's son Romeo.

Chris Richards Crystal Palace 2025-26

Chris Richards helped off pitch with suspected ankle injury

USMNT center back Chris Richards, a presumptive starter at the World Cup, needed help walking off the field after Crystal Palace's match against Brentford on Sunday afternoon. Manager Oliver Glasner later confirmed that Richards sustained an ankle injury after colliding with Brentford striker Igor Thiago. Richards is expected to recover within a week.

Manchester United v Nottingham Forest - Premier League

Carrick insists 'fantastic' Shaw deserves England World Cup spot

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has expressed his belief that Luke Shaw deserves a place in Thomas Tuchel's final England squad for the 2026 World Cup. After overcoming severe injury struggles, the resilient left-back has been remarkably consistent, starting every Premier League match this season and proving his immense value for the Red Devils.

Argentina v Zambia - International Friendly

Double training for Messi! How Argentine GOAT is preparing for 2026 World Cup

Lionel Messi might be entering the twilight of his legendary career, but the Inter Miami superstar has no intention of slowing down ahead of the 2026 World Cup. His club and international team-mate Rodrigo de Paul has revealed that the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner is currently undergoing a gruelling physical transformation to ensure he is in peak condition for Argentina's title defence.

Ancelotti-Neymar

Ancelotti weighs up 'bombshell' Neymar World Cup call

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has addressed the mounting speculation regarding Neymar’s place in the Selecao squad for the 2026 World Cup. The Italian tactician faces a monumental decision as the nation’s all-time record goalscorer battles for fitness ahead of the tournament's kick-off next month.