Chelsea are weighing up a stunning move for John Stones following the defender's departure from Manchester City, according to reports. The England international is available as a free agent after his contract at the Etihad Stadium expired, sparking interest from several Premier League heavyweights.
The 2030 World Cup could feature a massive expansion to 64 teams, according to a bold new claim. Following the conclusion of the 48-nation tournament won by Spain, the prospect of an even larger global competition across six host countries is now being openly discussed by high-ranking football executives, setting the stage for a historic centenary celebration.
Indian cricket icon Sourav Ganguly has leaped to the defence of Lionel Messi following Argentina’s agonising defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. The former India captain insisted that the legendary forward’s career legacy remains untouchable despite a difficult night at the MetLife Stadium.
Italy are desperately trying to convince Pep Guardiola to become their new national team manager. Technical director Paolo Maldini and advisor Leonardo recently held face-to-face talks with Guardiola in Barcelona. However, the former Manchester City boss wants to take a break from football, meaning the Italian football federation faces an almost impossible task to hire him.
From discounted tickets and free fan festivals, to 24-hour pitches and a visit to Rikers Island, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani tells GOAL how his administration sought to make the World Cup accessible - and what he hopes it will leave behind.
Ines Garcia has passionately spoken out against the severe online abuse she has faced following Spain's recent World Cup triumph. The partner of Lamine Yamal took to social media to urge her followers for basic human empathy, explaining the heavy emotional toll that the relentless stream of insulting messages has taken on her daily life as she tries to celebrate her relationship.
Manchester City marksman Erling Haaland is currently enjoying a well-earned break from the relentless pace of elite football as he celebrates his 26th birthday. The Norwegian international, who has broken nearly every scoring record in his path since moving to the Premier League, was the subject of an affectionate tribute from his long-term partner as he reached his latest personal milestone.
Brazilian forward Neymar is back on the training pitch with Santos, looking sharp and scoring goals in a recently shared video. The return to domestic action comes swiftly after a heartbreaking exit from the 2026 World Cup, which culminated in his emotional international retirement and intense scrutiny over how his fitness was managed during the tournament.
Spain sensation Lamine Yamal has poked fun at Argentina's Leandro Paredes following the chaotic scenes that marred the end of the 2026 World Cup final. During La Roja's victory parade in Madrid, the teenager was seen holding a sign referencing the midfielder's physical altercation with Gavi.
Lionel Scaloni has addressed speculation surrounding his own future and potential international retirements within the Argentina squad following a heartbreaking World Cup final defeat to Spain. The manager also dismissed conspiracy theories regarding team unity, whilst Lionel Messi skipped public celebrations in Buenos Aires to reflect privately back home.
Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly set to announce his retirement from international football after one final appearance for Portugal. The forward is expected to bid farewell to the national team in a Nations League match against Wales, concluding a record-breaking career where he became the most capped player and greatest goalscorer in international football history.
One of English football's most high-profile and debated officials is hanging up his whistle after two decades in the middle. Anthony Taylor has officially announced his retirement from refereeing following the conclusion of his duties at the 2026 World Cup.
Lionel Messi decided against travelling to Buenos Aires with the Argentina squad following their heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. The forward bypassed the traditional homecoming celebrations, opting instead for a private journey back to his hometown of Rosario to quietly process the immense emotional toll of the tournament.
.jpg?auto=webp&format=pjpg&width=3840&quality=60)
.jpg?auto=webp&format=pjpg&width=3840&quality=60)
