Thomas Tuchel has shed light on the current defensive hierarchy within the England camp, admitting that several names are currently preferred over Harry Maguire. Despite the Manchester United veteran impressing on his return to the international stage against Uruguay, he faces a significant battle to secure a spot for the upcoming World Cup.
Romelu Lukaku’s relationship with Napoli has reached a critical juncture following his decision to remain in Belgium during the international break. While the club and manager Antonio Conte were left frustrated by his absence from the training ground, new reports suggest a diplomatic effort is underway to repair the damage.
Harry Maguire has opened up on his emotional return to the England setup, admitting that Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick played a pivotal role in reviving his international career. After 18 months in the wilderness, the veteran defender is back in the fold and started the Three Lions' World Cup warm-up clash against Uruguay.
Julian Nagelsmann has warned Jamal Musiala that time is fast running out for him to prove his fitness ahead of the upcoming World Cup. The Bayern Munich sensation has been forced to sit out Germany’s latest round of international friendlies as he continues to struggle with a persistent ankle problem.
Reports have surfaced regarding the relationship between Thomas Tuchel and Trent Alexander-Arnold following a cryptic social media post by the Real Madrid defender. This latest snub for the friendlies against Uruguay and Japan means the former Liverpool man has only played one game for his country since Tuchel took charge in March 2025.
Freddy Adu has told GOAL why Gio Reyna’s unique skillset could be crucial to the USMNT cause at a home World Cup. The United States is, alongside Mexico and Canada, preparing to play host to FIFA’s flagship event in 2026. Reyna is hoping to play a prominent role at that event but, having endured form and fitness issues at club level, has been informed of what he needs to bring to Mauricio Pochettino’s squad in order to make the cut.
France manager Didier Deschamps has issued a stern warning to FIFA regarding the use of mandatory cooling breaks following his side's hard-fought victory over Brazil in the United States. Despite the positive result on the pitch in Massachusetts, the World Cup-winning coach was left frustrated by the constant interruptions to the game's rhythm and flow.
Could 2026 finally, FINALLY be England’s year?! Nike have got us believing after dropping the Three Lions’ home and away kits with the World Cup fast approaching. Harnessing the power of the national team at a major tournament, they have captured the mood of a country that is crying out for a unifying moment. Bring on June.
Wherever Marcelo Bielsa has gone in his managerial career, he has left a trail of wonder. It's not always wonder in a positive sense, but it's whimsical and mystifying all the same. From revolutionising Newell's Old Boys to the Argentine national team, from Athletic Club and the Basque Country to Leeds United in West Yorkshire, you will find people deeply touched by the impact of 'El Loco' to differing, extreme degrees.
The six remaining places at the 2026 World Cup will be decided through two play-off tournaments, featuring the likes of Italy, Poland, Jamaica and DR Congo, among others.
It was a night of equal misfortune for Wales and the Republic of Ireland, who were eliminated from World Cup qualifying. Both teams lost leads in the final minutes before losing painful penalty shootouts to Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Czechia, respectively.
Thomas Tuchel has issued a blunt "pressure" warning to Cole Palmer, warning the Chelsea superstar that his place in the England starting XI for the World Cup is far from guaranteed. The German coach insists that the playmaker must prove his worth in the international setup following an injury-hit campaign.
Thomas Tuchel has delivered a blunt verdict on Trent Alexander-Arnold's international future, insisting the Real Madrid defender "just has to accept" his latest exclusion from the England setup. Despite the former Chelsea boss admitting the decision could be viewed as "unfair", he has prioritised other defensive options for the upcoming World Cup preparation.
Lionel Scaloni has indicated that Lionel Messi has still not confirmed he will lead Argentina at the 2026 World Cup. The national team boss was quick to deflect pressure away from the Inter Miami superstar, reiterating that the decision rests entirely with the player himself.
Brazil legend Zico has delivered an honest assessment of Neymar’s career, suggesting the Santos star has failed to match the professionalism of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Despite acknowledging his compatriot's immense natural ability, Zico believes off-field habits have hindered the forward’s longevity and consistency.
Antonio Rüdiger has lost his role as the DFB team’s defensive leader. Recently, injuries, scandals and poor performances in the national team’s colours have dominated the headlines. With the World Cup approaching, time is running out for him.
Everything you need to know about the disciplinary history of the World Cup, ahead of the 2026 tournament in the United States of America, Mexico, and Canada. There have been notable dismissals in almost every tournament to date, from sending offs in World Cup finals, to games that saw both teams lose their heads, and more than a few players...
Craig Bellamy produced a classic no-nonsense moment during his latest media briefing, shutting down a reporter who attempted to ask a question relating to Mohamed Salah's Liverpool exit. The Wales boss made it clear that his only priority is the upcoming World Cup play-off.
Cristiano Ronaldo has long been linked with a glamorous move to Major League Soccer to wrap up his legendary career, but one USMNT icon believes that ship has sailed. As the Portuguese superstar continues his journey in the Saudi Pro League, questions are being asked about whether he has the physical longevity to ever touch down in North America.
Premier League legend Alan Shearer has caused a stir by omitting Jude Bellingham and Cole Palmer from his predicted England starting line-up for the 2026 World Cup. The former Three Lions striker has instead opted for a selection based on current form and tactical balance.
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