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Nicolas Garcia Hemme, LALIGA North America Managing Director, backed the Spanish top flight's controversial Miami-based fixture for success, despite criticism over its scheduling. The executive admitted that the December game could ruffle some feathers, but claimed that it is a crucial way for Spanish football to differentiate itself in the U.S.

A man famously named 'Mr Manchester United' has passed away aged 62, it has been confirmed. The Bulgarian construction worker previously known as Marin Zdravkov Lavidzhov had his name legally changed to Manchester United and became iconic for having the club crest tattooed to his forehead. He was inspired to support the Red Devils following their dramatic victory in the 1999 Champions League final, which secured the treble under Sir Alex Ferguson, and was a super-fan ever since.

From early promise to a costly points deduction, and a final-day showdown that left the nation breathless, South Africa’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign was a rollercoaster of brilliance, blunders and bold performances. It was a journey shaped by pressure, resilience and moments that won’t be forgotten.

Jude Bellingham left his brother Jobe confused with a Frank Sinatra-themed Instagram post as Real Madrid star enjoys time off amid exile from the England national team. Bellingham has returned to action for Madrid after undergoing a shoulder injury in the summer. He is still working his way back to full match fitness and sharpness, which prompted Thomas Tuchel to overlook the midfield star in the Three Lions squad.

The U.S. have been knocking at the door, but what needs to change to finally open it? That question remains after another exit

South Africa are among the teams that have sealed their World Cup ticket thanks to their healthy win over Amavubi in the midweek outing, coupled with the Super Eagles' victory over the Cheetahs in Uyo. This is the first time since 2010 that Mzansi will be rubbing shoulders with the best in the global competition to be played next year.

Manchester United captain Maya Le Tissier was included in Sarina Wiegman's latest England squad on Tuesday. But while there is a gaping long-term hole in the centre of the Lionesses' defence after Millie Bright's international retirement, Wiegman is still insistent on using Le Tissier in a different position, much to the annoyance of her club's social media team.

Arsenal defender Cristhian Mosquera is considering switching international allegiance from Spain after being promised a spot elsewhere at the 2026 World Cup in North America. Mosquera, born in the city of Alicante, has represented the Spanish national team at various youth levels, but he has yet to break into the senior squad. With the World Cup fast approaching, the 21-year-old is considering representing another nation.

After a goalless draw with Zimbabwe last Friday night, South Africa needed a win over Amavubi in Mbombela and hoped Nigeria would beat Benin in Uyo. Fate smiled on Hugo Broos’ side. The Belgian coach led Bafana Bafana to the global showpiece, marking their first successful World Cup qualifying campaign in 24 years.

Match of the Day pundit and former Premier League star Ashley Williams has refuted claims that he abused a linesman at a recent Under-15s children's football match where his son played at Bromley FC. Reports state that he threatened the linesman and offered to 'take it outside'. Video footage depicts a confrontation involving Williams at the match. Williams denies he made any threats.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could be set to return to Britain in a coaching role as Rangers have approached the Manchester United legend. Only a few days ago, Solskjaer's former assistant coach at Old Trafford, Michael Carrick was linked with the managerial job at Ibrox. The Scottish giants parted ways with Russell Martin after just two months of the 2025-26 campaign.

The harrowing details of an attack on Barcelona superstar Lamine Yamal's father have been released, as witness accounts detail the moment that Mounir Nasraoui was stabbed multiple times during an altercation after he was confronted in a car park. The perpetrators have claimed that they were acting in self defence and so Nasraoui was taken in for questioning, where he told his side of the story to go alongside witness statements of the event.

The NWSL has granted Commissioner Jessica Berman a three-year contract extension, keeping her in charge through the 2028 season. Berman’s initial four-year deal, signed in 2022, was set to expire after the current season. The extension comes after months of deliberation among league ownership, and puts her in position to lead into new phases.

Erling Haaland showed off his eccentric new fashion sense on Instagram as he posed donning a flat cap and holding a bag worth nearly £10,000. Haaland is currently enjoying a brief holiday in Spain after being released from the Norway squad in the middle of the international window. The goal machine scored a hat-trick against Israel in a World Cup qualifying game last week, but will not feature in an upcoming friendly.

Lionel Messi could be faced with the prospect of demolishing his €11 million (£9.5m/$12m) mansion in Ibiza as controversy continues surrounding the 16,000 square metre property, which was built on protected land without the necessary permits. Messi bought the mansion in 2022 but has faced a series of recent issues, such as when climate activist group Futuro Vegetal vandalised the property last year.

Alan Pace, who owns Premier League outfit Burnley, has successfully completed the takeover of Spanish side Espanyol, who are the second-biggest team in Catalunya behind Barcelona. Pace spoke ambitiously about his plans to make the Catalan club into a top six side in La Liga, with his dream not only to win the Champions League, but also to turn them into a global brand.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta is under fresh scrutiny after former presidential candidate Victor Font accused the club of concealing €80 million (£67m/$87m) in losses and mismanaging key projects. Font has urged for elections “as soon as possible,” reigniting tensions ahead of the 2026 race and questioning the transparency of the current regime.

As Sarina Wiegman prepared to announce her first England squad since the Lionesses triumphed at the European Championship back in July, one of the biggest questions surrounded Millie Bright. After missing that triumph, citing physical and mental fatigue as she withdrew from selection, would the Chelsea captain be available again? Three months on, we have our answer.

Viktor Gyokeres has discussed his recent blanks for Sweden following their dismal World Cup qualifying loss against Kosovo on Monday. The defeat led to the sacking of manager Jon Dahl Tomasson as the Swedes are virtually out of contention to qualify for the tournament in North America next summer. This was Sweden's second consecutive home loss during the October international window.

The 60-year-old had both good and bad moments with the Glamour Boys during his slightly more than a year in charge. He broke their decade-long trophy drought but the Soweto giants league performances left a lot to be desired. And now, while the Amakhosi management has been commended for the brave decision they made in parting ways with the Tunisian, the club handlers have also been warned that more is needed for them to deliver consistently at the highest level.

Werder Bremen forward Medina Desic has issued a public apology after celebrating her side’s Frauen Bundesliga derby win against Hamburg by holding up a provocative fan sign featuring a poop emoji and their rivals' crest. The 32-year-old admitted the incident was the result of a “moment of euphoria” and insisted she did not intend to insult or provoke anyone.

Mexico coach Javier Aguirre made it clear that only players with mental toughness will make his roster for the World Cup, saying his project with El Tri isn’t for those who “can’t handle the heat.” Aguirre also addressed the goalkeeping situation, casting doubt on Luis Ángel Malagón’s status as the starter and saying the position is still up for grabs.

The 66-year-old is no longer with the Citizens following a short stint with the KwaZulu-Natal club. He was working with Gavin Hunt in a technical team set up of big names amid expectations of helping the newly promoted team challenge seasoned campaigners like Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns.

On Tuesday, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) officially presented Sonia Bermudez as the new head coach of the Spanish women's national team, who will be succeeding Montse Tome in the role. Bermudez, one of the best players in Spain during her time, addressed the future of veteran striker Jenni Hermoso, who was left out of the Euro 2025 squad.

U.S. international Auston Trusty says he’s in some of the best form of his career, even after missing out on several national team call-ups. Determined to prove he deserves a spot among the U.S. centerbacks, Trusty - appearing on GOAL's The Rondo - noted positive differences between USMNT manager Mauricio Pochettino and former boss Gregg Berhalter.

Luca Zidane has received his first-ever Algeria call-up at 27 years old, marking a new chapter in his career. The Granada goalkeeper, son of French legend Zinedine Zidane, switched his international allegiance from France and says he’s “ready to give everything” with the Fennecs already sure of a place at the 2026 World Cup.

Manchester United are reportedly considering keeping hold of veteran Brazilian midfielder Casemiro as Ruben Amorim plans to revamp his team in the summer transfer window. The Portuguese manager is planning a major overhaul in the middle of the park, with one big-name signing on the radar and the Brazilian’s lucrative contract now under the microscope.

The new signing has been tipped to shine even more when he fully settles at the Chloorkop-based heavyweights. However, the midfielder's good start with his new club comes at a time when Masandawana are shaky and have just been eliminated from another competition.

Ferland Mendy is finally nearing his Real Madrid return after six months out with a serious thigh injury sustained in the Copa del Rey final against Barcelona last season. The French defender will rejoin partial team training this week but faces a new challenge under Xabi Alonso, with Alvaro Carreras now the undisputed starter at left-back.