Brazil are on the verge of securing their long-term future as Carlo Ancelotti prepares to put pen to paper on a contract extension. The former Real Madrid boss, who took the reins last summer, has agreed fresh terms that will see him lead the Selecao until the 2030 World Cup, ending speculation over a potential return to Europe this summer.
By his own admission, Cole Palmer still isn't fully fit as he grapples with a niggling groin issue that has plagued him all season long. The scary thing is, we're starting to see the Chelsea talisman at something close to his best despite his ongoing injury troubles, and the timing of his recent uptick in form could be perfect as he eyes a place in Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the 2026 World Cup.
Michael Owen has told GOAL of the key striker decision that Thomas Tuchel must make when piecing together his England squad for the 2026 World Cup. Harry Kane, as captain of his country, is a guaranteed selection if fit. Questions continue to be asked of who should join the Three Lionsâ all-time leading scorer in a star-studded party heading to North America.
Michael Owen has explained to GOAL how Thomas Tuchel could work Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers into the same starting XI, rather than having to pick between two creative playmakers. The Three Lions are blessed with an abundance of options in the No.10 role, with the race on to nail down that berth ahead of a quest for global glory being opened this summer.
Thomas Tuchel has signed a new contract with England that will keep him in charge of the Three Lions through to the end of a quest for European Championship glory in 2028. The new agreement has been confirmed ahead of the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League draw, with the German tactician having snubbed interest being shown in his services by leading club sides from across Europe.
England have picked Kansas City as their World Cup base and will share the city with Argentina, who have also resolved to base themselves in the city. The Three Lions will train at Swope Soccer Village, the current home of Sporting Kansas City II, a team in the MLS Next PRO competition.
Former Arsenal goalkeeper David Seaman has revealed how he feared he was going to become a national hate symbol after Ronaldinho scored a long-range free-kick goal that helped Brazil knock England out of the 2002 World Cup. Speaking on the Beast Mode On Podcast, Seaman explained how he was concerned that he was going to receive treatment similar to that suffered by David Beckham after his red card for kicking out at Diego Simeone in 1998.
Thomas Frank insists he is '1,000 per cent' the right man for the Tottenham job despite a toxic atmosphere in north London. Spurs fans openly called for the return of Mauricio Pochettino as their side slumped to a miserable 2-1 defeat against Newcastle on Tuesday, leaving the crisis-hit club hovering dangerously above the relegation zone ahead of the derby match against local rivals Arsenal.
Spain's preparations for the upcoming 2026 World Cup have been dealt a significant blow following a serious injury to striker Samu Aghehowa. The Porto star has scored 20 times in all competitions already this season and looked a safe bet to be included in Luis de la Fuente's squad for the summer tournament. However, a dreaded ACL tear has put paid to his hopes.
It is reportedly expected that Jose Mourinho will be offered the job as Portugal manager after the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) are set to swoop for the current Benfica boss when Roberto Martinez's contract expires at the end of the global tournament.
This is Legacy, GOALâs podcast and feature series to mark the countdown to the 2026 World Cup. Each week, we explore the stories and the spirit behind the nations that define the worldâs game. This week, we travel to Mexico, the only country to host three World Cups. From Peleâs triumph in 1970 to Diego Maradonaâs magic in 1986, and now to the celebration set for 2026, itâs the story of a nation where football is not just played, but lived; a land of goals, history, and unending passion.
Mauricio Pochettino has once again indicated that he wants to return to Tottenham as he claimed their recent achievements are "not enough" for a club of that stature. Despite his current commitments with the United States national team, the Argentine said his ultimate ambition is to win the Champions League and Premier League, placing them above achieving World Cup glory in his current role.
Cristiano Ronaldo has been urged to ânever stop playing footballâ, with fellow Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos telling the Portuguese GOAT that he needs to prolong his career for as long as possible - even if he ends up âwith one leg or crawlingâ. CR7 has passed his 41st birthday without giving any thought to retirement and is expected to grace the 2026 World Cup.
England are set to take on New Zealand in their first World Cup 2026 warm-up match, it has been confirmed. Thomas Tuchel's side will take on the All Whites in Tampa on June 6 ahead of the tournament, and they will then schedule a friendly fixture four days after.
At the 2002 World Cup, Ronaldo arrived looking for redemption. While sporting one of the most unique haircuts in football history, the Brazil striker found exactly what he was searching for. This is ICONS - a GOAL podcast and feature series that revisits the last 10 World Cups from unique perspectives, bringing the spirit of the tournament back to life...
Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Argentine National Team, led by Lionel Scaloni, will be based in Kansas City for much of the competition. They will play their first match of the tournament against Algeria on June 16th in the city. Although their other two matches will be in Dallas, the Albiceleste chose Kansas City for its convenient location and climate.
James Rodriguez is reportedly nearing a deal to sign with Minnesota United, which would be a perfect short term agreement for both parties ahead of the World Cup
Pep Guardiola has launched a stinging attack on U.S. president Donald Trumpâs administration following the deaths of Renee Good and nurse Alex Pretti at the hands of ICE agents. The Manchester City manager delivered an impassioned defence of human rights during a press conference, breaking his usual silence to condemn "genocide" in Palestine and demand compassion for migrants crossing the English Channel.
ITV plans to take advantage of the BBC's cut-price coverage to win the battle of the broadcasters at this summer's World Cup. While the BBC will not have a studio in North America for the group stage, their rivals have decided to base themselves in the heart of New York from the outset, and they plan to have an all-star cast of pundits to 'blow their competitors out of the water'.
Lionel Messi has reportedly given the âgreen lightâ to a sensational transfer that would include a âno away gamesâ stipulation. The Argentine GOAT has extended his contract at MLS Cup winners Inter Miami through 2028, but wants to ensure that he is ready for World Cup duty in 2026. That could mean returning to Europe on a short-term deal, with Galatasaray ready to throw open their doors.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has sparked fresh controversy by declaring that Russiaâs ban from international football should "definitely" be lifted. In a wide-ranging and explosive interview, the Swiss official argued that the exclusion has failed to achieve its goals and has only created "frustration," while also doubling down on his decision to award United States president Donald Trump a bespoke "peace prize."
Lionel Messi is yet to officially confirm his participation at the 2026, but Inter Miami boss and fellow countryman Javier Mascherano appears to have revealed that the eight-time Ballon dâOr winner will form part of Argentinaâs plans. The expectation has always been that Messi, who captured a global crown in 2022, will grace at least one more major tournament as captain of his country.
This is Legacy, GOALâs podcast and feature series that counts down to the 2026 World Cup. Each week, we explore the stories and the spirit behind the nations that define the worldâs game. This week, we dive into Saudi Arabiaâs journey: from Saeed Al-Owairanâs unforgettable, Diego Maradona-like run in 1994, to that stunning night in Qatar when the Green Falcons humbled Lionel Messi and Argentina. This is a story of belief, resilience and a legacy that never dies...
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