Brazil veteran Hulk has delivered a surprisingly neutral assessment regarding Neymar’s potential inclusion in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad for the 2026 World Cup. As the legendary forward battles to regain full match fitness following a lengthy injury absence, the lack of an explicit endorsement from his former international team-mate has intensified the selection debate.
Harry Kane is being tipped to emulate Cristiano Ronaldo by playing into his 40s, with ex-England star Gareth Barry telling GOAL why the prolific Bayern Munich striker should be giving no thought to retirement. Kane is only 32, with many years ahead of him, and is expected to offer domestic and international bosses a huge boost by following in the footsteps of fellow all-time greats.
Italy missed out on qualification for the upcoming showpiece in USA, Mexico and Canada, but they might reportedly get one last chance to book their ticket after all, even if Fifa remains confident no emergency scenarios are required
Carlo Ancelotti has refused to rule out a fairytale return to the Brazil national team for veteran defender Thiago Silva ahead of the upcoming World Cup. Despite the centre-back now being 41 years old, the Italian tactician believes quality and experience far outweigh any numbers found on a passport.
Tottenham forward Richarlison has opened up about the secret negotiations that nearly took him to Paris Saint-Germain on several occasions. The Brazilian revealed that he was positioned as a primary replacement for Kylian Mbappe whenever the French star appeared to be on the verge of leaving the Parc des Princes.
The debate surrounding Neymar’s place in the Brazilian national team has intensified as the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico draws closer. Neymar has been handed a significant lifeline regarding his international future as Carlo Ancelotti opened the door for a potential World Cup return. Despite missing out on recent call-ups, the forward remains firmly in the thoughts of the Selecao coaching staff ahead of the tournament.
Ollie Watkins has revealed that former England striker Michael Owen advised him to play with more aggression as he looks to revive his international ambitions. The Aston Villa forward has sought guidance from the legendary goalscorer during a challenging season. Watkins believes the advice could help him rediscover his best form ahead of the World Cup.
U.S. men's national team defender John Tolkin suffered an apparent leg injury while playing for Holstein Kiel on Friday. The injury came just seven minutes into Kiel's match against Fortuna Dusseldorf, forcing the fullback out early and raising concern for both club and country as the season enters its final stretch.
