Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: September 18, 2026, 2:02 PM ET

Manchester United Crisis Deepens

Manchester United have hit a crisis point under head coach Michael Carrick after a Carabao Cup collapse against Brighton & Hove Albion, with the manager insisting it is "ridiculous to think" of pressure surrounding his position. The defeat has intensified scrutiny on Carrick, and questions are mounting over whether he can navigate choppy waters to steer the ship back on course. The collapse against Brighton marked a crisis point for the Red Devils, who now face mounting pressure across all competitions.

England Squad Recall

Thomas Tuchel has recalled Trent Alexander-Arnold and Cole Palmer to the England squad, issuing a performance warning to both players. Tuchel said both Palmer and Alexander-Arnold have points to prove for the national team. The England boss also noted that "99.9 per cent" of fans he meets do not ask him about his Argentina substitutions. The recalls signal a significant shift in England's approach as Tuchel puts his stamp on the squad. Analysts have noted the squad selections carry an "embrace the chaos" quality, with Tuchel unafraid to make bold calls.

Ronaldo and Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo, now, has been named in Portugal's squad by new coach Jorge Jesus for the upcoming Nations League fixtures. Ronaldo's inclusion comes as Jesus takes charge of his first squad selection. The veteran forward remains a central figure in Portugal's plans despite his advancing years.

Kane and the Ballon d'Or

Harry Kane has stated that his tally of 73 goals last season "speaks for itself" in the Ballon d'Or race. The Bayern Munich striker's remarkable scoring record has made him a leading contender for the prestigious individual award.

Mbappé's New Sponsorship

Kylian Mbappé has signed with sportswear brand On after leaving Nike, marking a significant shift in the endorsement landscape. The move ends a long-standing relationship with the American sportswear giant.

Oxford United Apology

Oxford United have apologised for the launch of a clothing collection branded "United 93" on the anniversary of the September 11 attacks. The club issued a formal apology for the image, which features the call sign of one of the hijacked flights.

Liverpool's New Era Under Iraola

Andoni Iraola is moving Liverpool on from the Slot era, with BBC Sport examining how the new manager is reshaping the club. Meanwhile, striker Alexander Isak said his move from Newcastle to Liverpool was an easy decision, citing the club's ambition and determination to sign him.

Manchester City's Perfect Start

Enzo Maresca has been pushing all the right buttons in a perfect start for Manchester City, making it six wins from six. The manager has rotated his squad effectively while maintaining results. Teenager Floyd Samba, son of former defender Chris Samba, scored twice on his debut as the holders eased past Norwich 5-0. The 17-year-old's performance has raised questions about whether he is a backup for Haaland or potentially the next Pogba.

Premier League Grades and Predictions

ESPN has released its first-month grades for all 20 Premier League teams, ranging from an A+ to an F. In weekend predictions, the Madrid derby is set to heat up LaLiga while Brighton could stun Arsenal. Paul Merson has described the upcoming Spurs versus Aston Villa clash as a "huge game" and a momentum swinger. In betting analysis, one tipster has backed Brentford to expose a "soft" Chelsea side.

Tottenham's Scoring Woes

Roberto De Zerbi's Tottenham are yet to score a Premier League goal this season, prompting questions about how to fix their scoring troubles. The Italian manager faces a significant challenge in getting his attack firing.

EFL and Lower League Action

The EFL weekend promises a derby day deluge with local rivalries and competitive cities featuring prominently. Coventry have endured a miserable start but are not a hopeless case, having played four of their opening fixtures away from home. MK Dons remain without a win in seven League One games after a goalless draw at AFC Wimbledon.

Bournemouth's European Dream

Bournemouth have enjoyed a winning start to their Europa League campaign at Real Sociedad, with first-half goals by Justin Kluivert and Rayan. The club's journey from starting a League Two season on minus 17 points in 2008 to European competition represents a remarkable transformation.

Crystal Palace's Europa League Debut

Crystal Palace cruised to victory in their first-ever Europa League game, defeating Lech Poznan 4-0. The Eagles made a statement on their continental debut.

Celtic's Europa League Struggles

Celtic were punished again for defensive errors as they lost their Europa League opener to Ferencvaros. The defeat follows a poor domestic run, and questions are being asked about where Celtic and O'Neill go from here. The Bhoys have been described as a poor imitation of the Ange Postecoglou team, and the Sportsound podcast has reacted to the defeat. Ahead of the Glasgow derby, there are questions about whether Celtic are in crisis as Rangers sense an opportunity at Parkhead.

USMNT Squad Announcement

The USMNT's first post-World Cup squad is missing its biggest stars, with Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun omitted. Teenager Cavan Sullivan, headlines the roster as the Philadelphia Union phenom earns his first senior call-up. Real Madrid and Barcelona are reportedly tracking Sullivan after his move to Manchester City. New York Red Bulls teenager Julian Hall remains undecided on his future despite his first call-up.

Mexico and International Roundup

Hirving Lozano has earned his first Mexico call-up in nearly a year under new coach Rafael Marquez. Jürgen Klopp has named a total of 44 players in two separate squads for his first Germany games. FIFA vice president and FA chairwoman Debbie Hewitt has demanded transparency from FIFA president Gianni Infantino over a World Cup equity plan.

NWSL and Women's Football

The Washington Spirit lead the NWSL in having the highest contingent of African players, raising questions about what makes the club so attractive to talent from the continent. Former USWNT coach Vlatko Andonovski has been named Chicago Stars soccer chief, tasked with saving the last-place NWSL club. The question remains whether Andonovski can save the struggling side. In the Women's Champions League, Barcelona are favored again at the top of the power rankings.

Manchester United Women

Manchester United manager Eva Olid says criticism of her side is "normal" after a poor start to the WSL season, and she expects constructive feedback.

San Siro's Centenary

As San Siro turns, AC Milan and Inter are preparing to build a new home, with the iconic stadium running out of time after a century of memories.

PSG Ultras Legal Action

PSG ultras have taken legal action over a travel ban preventing them from attending the match at Marseille.

Transfer News and Rumors

Arsenal are eyeing Bournemouth youngster Eli Junior Kroupi, with the Gunners also monitoring Schade for a January move. Real Madrid are considering a move for Eli Junior Kroupi among other targets. Manchester United's 15-year-old wonderkid JJ Gabriel has caused a storm this week, with the young forward being highly rated by clubs across Europe.

World Football's Hottest Teams

Barcelona are among world soccer's hottest teams right now, with Bill Connelly examining whether anyone can stop the Catalan giants. Meanwhile, Torreense stunned Portugal by winning their domestic cup and qualifying for Europe, providing a fairytale story for lower-league teams.

Messi and MLS

Lionel Messi appeared to have a heated exchange with MLS commissioner Don Garber after Inter Miami's win, pointing his finger at Garber on multiple occasions.

Swansea's Premier League Dream

Swansea City's New Zealand star Elijah Just is eyeing the Premier League after living out one dream already this year.

Scottish Football

Wrexham defender Dom Hyam has revealed his disappointment at being left out of the Scotland squad. Hibernian striker Owen Elding has received his first Republic of Ireland call-up after a passport delay. There are conflicting reports about whether Hibernian are interested in Bristol Rovers' Evans.

Wrexham's Spygate Dig

Wrexham owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mac have poked fun at Southampton ahead of their upcoming match, referencing the Spygate scandal.

Sam Hutchinson's Journey

Sam Hutchinson, who battled depression after a Chelsea injury, is now playing non-league football at 37 for Farnham Town in the second qualifying round.

Queen's Park vs Ayr United

Sportscene's Jonathan Sutherland previews Friday's match as Queen's Park host Ayr United in a live BBC Scotland TV fixture.

Football Quizzes

Test your football knowledge with the BBC's daily quizzes, including Who Am I?, Five in Five and Brainteaser challenges. Bundesliga fans can also try to guess the player in the latest Who Am I? quiz. Think you know the history of matches between Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Brom? Test yourself with the Black Country derby quiz.

FPL Gameweek Five

BBC Sport's Fantasy Premier League expert FPL Heisenberg gives his answers to some of the toughest dilemmas ahead of gameweek five, including whether to keep or sell Cherki.

Cricket: County Championship

Somerset's hopes of becoming county champions for the first time in their history have suffered a major blow after defeat to Yorkshire, with Nottinghamshire also losing. Dom Bess dented the title hopes of his old club Somerset while Ben Stokes starred with the ball for Durham.

Cricket: Tom Banton's Rise

Nasser Hussain has lauded the "second coming" of England batter Tom Banton, suggesting Kevin Pietersen could be key to his development.

NFL: Bills Open New Stadium

Josh Allen starred as the Buffalo Bills opened their new Highmark Stadium with a 41-31 win over the Detroit Lions, quickly putting his stamp on the venue.

Darts: Littler's Clean Sweep Quest

Luke Littler, the world's No 1 darts player, needs five more titles to complete a clean sweep of major darts tournaments in 2026. Meanwhile, Michael van Gerwen's title defence at the World Series of Darts Finals came to an abrupt end in the first round, while Luke Humphries advanced.

Formula 1: Azerbaijan GP

Formula 1 will race in Azerbaijan on a Saturday schedule as the sport returns to the Baku City Circuit, with the race moved from its traditional Sunday slot.

Golf: BMW PGA Championship

Aaron Rai took a share of the lead at the BMW PGA Championship first round, with Rory McIlroy three shots back.

Horse Racing: Weekend Preview

Ahead of a busy Saturday from Newbury, the Weekend Winners panel previewed the action with Almekarem backed for handicap glory. Hollie Doyle previews the Mill Reef Stakes, suggesting Arapaho can strike gold in the Group Two contest. Today on Sky Sports Racing, Spy Chief takes on Catullus in the feature of seven races from Newbury on Friday.

Boxing: Craig Richards Returns

Craig Richards returns to his home city of London for a crucial fight against Radivoje Kalajdzic on September 26, looking to relaunch his world championship charge.