World Cup news

Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti has submitted his provisional 55-man squad for the 2026 World Cup to FIFA, offering a massive hint regarding the fitness and standing of several key Selecao stars. While the return of Neymar provides a morale boost, the Brazilian Football Federation (CBF) has simultaneously delivered a blow to the injured Estevao Willian, who was left omitted from the list.

U.S. Men's National Team midfielder Johnny Cardoso faces an extended spell on the sidelines after suffering an ankle injury that will require surgery, Atletico Madrid announced on Monday. The injury is expected to keep the midfielder out of the USMNT's World Cup squad, which is set to be announced on May 26.

GOAL breaks down what players and situations will be a bit concerning on the road to the World Cup.

Mexico and adidas unveil stunning new 2026 World Cup third kit inspired by national pride and football history.

Nico Williams has received incredibly positive news regarding the hamstring injury sustained during Athletic Club's recent clash with Valencia. While initial fears suggested the winger could miss the upcoming World Cup, medical tests have confirmed he should be fit in time for the tournament in North America.

Lionel Scaloni has officially unveiled Argentina's massive 55-man provisional squad for the 2026 World Cup, headlined by legendary captain Lionel Messi. As the Albiceleste prepare to defend their global crown in North America, the manager has mixed established icons with rising stars from the Premier League and beyond. However, the announcement has caused a stir across the footballing world as several high-profile names, including a 40-cap Serie A veteran, found themselves entirely omitted from the longlist.

James Rodriguez says he has no intention of retiring after representing Colombia at this summer's World Cup. Reports had said that the veteran midfielder would call it quits after the upcoming tournament, but Rodriguez, who started the MLS season with Minnesota United on a short-term deal, says he expects to play on.

All you need to know about securing tickets to the World Cup 2026 opener

Tottenham boss Roberto De Zerbi has expressed serious doubts over Dejan Kulusevski's ability to represent Sweden at the upcoming World Cup. Despite the winger's public determination to recover from a long-term knee injury, his club boss admits it is difficult to see him featuring in the tournament after such a lengthy spell on the sidelines. De Zerbi also delivered an update on Richarlison's fitness ahead of Spurs' crucial Premier League clash with Leeds.

Lionel Messi has thrown his weight behind former team-mate Neymar, insisting the Santos superstar "deserves" to be part of Brazil's World Cup squad despite his recent struggles with injury. The Inter Miami captain described his close friend as a "very special" talent who remains one of the finest players on the planet.

Neymar Jr. proved once again that Vila Belmiro is his backyard by leading Santos to a 2-0 victory over Red Bull Bragantino. In an inspired performance, the number 10 not only scored a goal but also took an important step towards potentially securing his place on the final list of players called up for the Brazil national team for the 2026 World Cup.

Nico O’Reilly has been tipped to nail down England’s left-back berth for “the next decade”, with Michael Gray explaining to GOAL why the Manchester City star is an “incredible talent”. With the versatile 21-year-old expected to become a mainstay in the Three Lions’ defence over the course of a 10-year period, what does that mean for United full-back Luke Shaw?

Spain’s World Cup preparations have suffered a devastating blow after Nico Williams was forced off with a muscular injury during Athletic Club's La Liga match against Valencia. Coming just weeks before the tournament and following Lamine Yamal's season-ending injury, the winger's distress on the pitch has sparked major fears over his availability for the national squad.

Weston McKennie has declared that he is ready to transform the immense pressure of a home World Cup into a historic performance for the United States men's national team. The Juventus midfielder insists that while the "butterflies" are inevitable, he feels no fear heading into the 2026 tournament, viewing the global spotlight as a unique opportunity to elevate American soccer to unprecedented heights.

Arsenal’s Premier League title charge and England’s World Cup preparations have been dealt a massive blow following a significant injury to Ben White. The versatile defender was forced to withdraw during the first half of Sunday's clash against West Ham United, leaving both Mikel Arteta and Thomas Tuchel sweating over his fitness.

Nicolas Tagliafico has revealed that Argentina are determined to provide Lionel Messi with the ultimate farewell by defending their crown at the 2026 World Cup. The defender insists that while "nobody will be ready" for the day the captain eventually retires, the squad is fully committed to supporting their leader until the very end.

Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez has provided a reassuring update on Lamine Yamal’s fitness as the teenage sensation races against time to be ready for the 2026 World Cup. Despite being sidelined for the remainder of the domestic season with a muscle tear, Yamal is expected to be a focal point for Luis de la Fuente’s Spain side this summer.