Chris Burton

Arsenal star Beth Mead admits that she is "not the biggest fan" of the new Women's Champions League format. Changes have been made to elite European competition that mirror those made in the men's game. Rather than a group stage playing out, all 18 teams are now placed into one league table - with the Gunners hoping to successfully navigate that en route to defending their continental crown.

Wayne Rooney says that Marcus Rashford has to accept responsibility for his own demise at Manchester United, with the Old Trafford outcast suggesting that an "inconsistent environment" contributed to his struggles for form before being sent out on loan. The England international, having been deemed surplus to requirements by the Premier League heavyweights, is currently taking in a spell with Barcelona.

Cristiano Ronaldo could return to Old Trafford in some capacity, the Portuguese's former team-mate Danny Simpson has said in an exclusive interview with GOAL, as the five-time Ballon d’Or winner wants to "make Manchester United great again". A third stint with the Red Devils may be taken in once retirement has been reached and a move into directorial posts is explored.

Manchester United may have a secret agent on their hands in Bryan Mbeumo, with the Red Devils winger said to be urging Cameroon international team-mate Carlos Baleba to join him at Old Trafford. United remain in the market for another proven performer to operate in the heart of their midfield, with a big-money raid on Premier League rivals Brighton being mooted.

Joshua Zirzkee’s agent has been blasted for "choosing the money" when it comes to his client, with Manchester United considered to have "become a cesspool". Netherlands international Zirkzee moved to Old Trafford in the summer of 2024, when having other options to consider at the time, and has tumbled down the pecking order with the Premier League heavyweights.

Sergio Aguero is not convinced that Manchester City striker Erling Haaland missed his big Ballon d’Or opportunity when losing out to Lionel Messi in 2023. The prolific Norwegian frontman enjoyed a memorable debut campaign at the Etihad Stadium, becoming a Treble winner, but still saw Argentine GOAT Messi walk off with the most prestigious of individual accolades.

FIFA has hinted that U.S. President Donald Trump will have the authority to strip cities of 2026 World Cup hosting rights if they are considered to pose too much of a safety risk. A global gathering of elite sporting talent is due to take place in the United States, Canada and Mexico next summer. As things stand, 11 venues across the USA are due to welcome fans from around the globe to their front door.

Jamie Vardy will star in a new TV documentary, Danny Simpson has confirmed to GOAL during an exclusive interview, with the Leicester City legend embracing a new professional challenge in Italy. After linking up with Cremonese, a “great character” is being backed to entertain audiences alongside wife Rebekah - with Vardy’s remarkable career following a Hollywood script.

Wilfried Zaha has launched a scathing attack on Jean-Phillipe Mateta, branding claims from his former Crystal Palace team-mate “disgusting”. The Ivory Coast international has not taken kindly to seeing a French forward that he once shared a dressing room with make comments that could be interpreted as him being a “bully”, with Zaha eager to get his side of the story across.

Rangers’ bid to appoint a new manager as successor to Russell Martin is in danger of becoming slightly farcical, with another leading candidate reportedly withdrawing himself from the running. Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard is said to have performed a U-turn after holding initial talks, with former Sheffield Wednesday boss Danny Rohl seemingly heading in the same direction.

Manchester United are reportedly confident that deals can be done that will allow them to press ahead with plans to construct a new 100,000-seater stadium. The Red Devils are intending to move out of their current Old Trafford base, but remain on an iconic site as a lavish new ground is built. There are a number of hurdles to clear before that dream becomes a reality.

Matt Jansen, during an exclusive interview with GOAL, has explained why Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mac would continue to make ‘Welcome to Wrexham’ in the Premier League. Said documentary has opened up a window to the world for the Red Dragons, with a record-breaking run of three successive promotions being caught on camera. Just one more step up the ladder is required in order to reach the big time.

Thibaut Courtois is of the opinion that his Real Madrid team-mate Jude Bellingham has to play for England at the 2026 World Cup. A surprising debate has been sparked there, with the all-action midfielder being left out of Thomas Tuchel’s latest Three Lions squad. He is still recovering from injury, but questions have been asked of Bellingham’s character and how he fits into the puzzle being pieced together by a demanding German coach.

Danny Murphy, during an exclusive interview with GOAL, has explained why any £57 million ($76m) transfer involving Harry Kane would be a “big risk” and a “downgrade” for the England captain if he were to head back to Tottenham. After lifting his trophy curse with Bayern Munich, the former Spurs striker is seeing a return to his homeland in the summer of 2026 speculated on.

The Premier League is reportedly set to vote on proposals that could see a “salary cap” of sorts introduced at the top end of English football. An “anchoring” plan has been drawn up, which would limit spending for elite clubs, with shareholders expected to address that issue in November. Several teams, including Manchester rivals United and City, are said to oppose the concept.

Casemiro faces a huge call on his £375,000-a-week Manchester United contract, according to reports. The Brazil international midfielder has been at Old Trafford since 2022, when he completed a stunning switch to England from La Liga giants Real Madrid. His current deal is running down, with interest from clubs in his homeland and the Saudi Pro League said to have been shown.

Chelsea wonderkid Estevao Willian is being backed to emulate Gianfranco Zola and Eden Hazard by securing legend status at Stamford Bridge, with the Brazilian youngster considered to be “unbelievably good”. He has already been likened to iconic countryman Neymar, with big shoes to be filled there, while also earning the nickname ‘Messinho’ (Little Messi) in his homeland.

Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mac are ready to spend again at Wrexham, with it claimed that another striker offer is already being lined up. In a bid to reach the Premier League as quickly as possible, Hollywood co-owners in North Wales are said to have sought advice from those that have helped Manchester City to maximise value for money in the transfer market.