Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal has expressed his hope that Neymar will represent Brazil at the 2026 World Cup. The Spain international described the veteran forward as his "idol" and one of football’s most inspiring entertainers.
This is Legacy, GOAL’s podcast following the countdown to the 2026 World Cup. Each week, we explore the stories and the spirit behind the nations that define the world’s game. In this week's episode, we look at how Spain went from defining an era to questioning its very place in the global game. We revisit the brilliance of the golden generation, the abrupt collapse after Brazil 2014, and the struggle of the teams that followed. And we turn to the present: a new coach, new mindset, and a wave of young talent led by Lamine Yamal, the prodigy many believe could carry Spain towards redemption in 2026. This is the journey of a team trying to rediscover itself - and the uncertainty, promise and pressure that comes with chasing a second star.
Former Amakhosi star and outspoken pundit Junior Khanye has sent a clear message to Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos regarding his defensive selections. Following a commanding continental performance, Khanye believes two Mamelodi Sundowns stars have proved they are indispensable for the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
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.
The 31-year-old playmaker has quickly become a key figure in the Soweto giants’ midfield since joining the side led by co-coaches Cedric Kaze and Khalil Ben Youssef earlier this season. The ex-Mamelodi Sundowns star has been in fine form at Naturena, earning widespread praise from both the Amakhosi faithful and the technical team for how seamlessly he has settled into life at the club.
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
Hugo Broos appears spoilt for choice in the goalkeeping department, with South Africa now seemingly boasting depth between the posts. The Belgian now faces a tough call in selecting his number one for the global football tournament.
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.
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