World Cup news

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.

Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappe has officially been unveiled as the face of EA SPORTS FC 27, marking a triumphant return to the spotlight for the world’s premier football simulation. The French captain’s move to the Santiago Bernabeu has solidified his status as the game's ultimate commercial powerhouse, ending a four-year hiatus from the iconic cover.

Spain's 2026 World Cup win has seen Villarreal winger Alex Baena secure a place in the history books that even the greatest players of all time cannot match. While the headlines at MetLife Stadium focused on the passing of the torch from Lionel Messi to Lamine Yamal, Baena quietly completed a feat never before seen in the men's game.

Luka Modric is preparing to sign a new one-year contract extension with AC Milan and will officially retire from international duty with Croatia this October. The midfielder wants to dedicate his final season entirely to the Italian giants, aiming for a successful swansong after missing out on Champions League football and suffering World Cup heartbreak.

Portugal have been warned they could suffer a major loss in attention and revenue once Cristiano Ronaldo ends his international career. A leading marketing expert believes the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) must prepare a new strategy before the five-time Ballon d'Or winner steps away.

Gary Neville has delivered a scathing assessment of Argentina's World Cup final defeat to Spain, insisting Lionel Scaloni's side were fortunate to stay in the contest. The former Manchester United defender also questioned how heavily the reigning champions rely on Lionel Messi.

Thousands of passionate supporters gathered in Buenos Aires to welcome the Argentina squad home following their World Cup final defeat to Spain. Captain Lionel Messi was notably absent from the delegation after electing to fly directly to Miami before taking a short break in Rosario, leaving head coach Lionel Scaloni and 16 players to lead the parade.

World Cup winners Jurgen Klinsmann, Kaka, Mario Gotze and Carles Puyol tell GOAL about the pressure, relief and lasting impact of lifting the trophy.

Leandro Paredes has broken his silence after Argentina's World Cup final defeat, but avoided addressing his role in the chaotic post-match brawl. The midfielder now faces uncertainty with FIFA set to investigate the ugly scenes despite his red card being removed.

Emi Martinez has hinted he could bring his Argentina career to an end after the Albiceleste lost the World Cup final to Spain. The Aston Villa goalkeeper admitted his heartbreak in an emotional message, leaving his international future uncertain.

Rodrigo De Paul has defended Argentina following their World Cup final defeat to Spain, accusing critics of spreading "baseless conspiracy theories" throughout the tournament. The midfielder insists the backlash only strengthened the bond within Lionel Scaloni's squad despite their painful loss.

CONMEBOL president Alejandro Dominguez has claimed on social media that the 2030 World Cup will expand to an unprecedented 64-team tournament. The bold declaration follows confirmation from Gianni Infantino that FIFA plans to evaluate further expansion after the groundbreaking 48-team 2026 edition in North America.

Lionel Messi and Argentina were left heartbroken after losing the World Cup final to Spain, but the Argentine captain quickly received an emotional show of support from his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo. Her heartfelt tribute praised his resilience, character and enduring legacy despite the painful defeat.

Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul have been granted a mandatory recovery hiatus following their intense World Cup run with Argentina. Inter Miami's star duo will reportedly sit out upcoming league encounters and the MLS All-Star Game, ensuring they receive crucial rest after starring on the global stage.