Football/Soccer 8 Hours

Last updated: September 7, 2026, 10:27 PM ET

Champions League Preview

The Champions League returns this week, and BBC Sport's experts have weighed in on the favourites and breakout stars to watch ahead of matchday one. Meanwhile, ESPN's panel has released its pre-MD1 power rankings, with PSG topping the list. Jose Mourinho's return to Real Madrid poses a fascinating question: can he lead Los Blancos to UCL glory and silence critics who say his best days are behind him?

Premier League & European Domestic

Arsenal's statement win over Chelsea sent a clear message to the Premier League, while Inter proved they remain Serie A's team to beat, according to Gab Marcotti's analysis. In Manchester, new City boss Enzo Maresca has introduced club-inspired training beats to put his stamp on the squad after replacing Pep Guardiola.

Transfer Rumours

Manchester United are reportedly monitoring Dortmund's Felix Nmecha, according to Tuesday's papers. Elsewhere, Federico Chiesa's Liverpool future is in doubt, with Jadon Sancho linked to a Premier League return and Real Madrid's Endrick attracting Italian interest. Chelsea are also eyeing a move for Alex Scott as a potential replacement for Enzo Fernández.

Ballon d'Or & Star Power

Kylian Mbappé has defended his work rate and talked up his Ballon d'Or chances, denying that his off-the-ball effort alongside Vinícius Júnior is a problem for Real Madrid. Harry Kane, meanwhile, said he's "extremely proud" of his 73-goal campaign and hopes his best season yet earns him the historic award.

Saudi & International

Al Ittihad mocked Cristiano Ronaldo after handing Al Nassr their first defeat of the season, taunting "cheating, still losing." In governance news, the Belgian FA has refused to back Gianni Infantino's re-election as FIFA president, citing transparency issues and the handling of Folarin Balogun's red card reversal.

Boxing & USMNT

Oleksandr Usyk's camp has dismissed Tyson Fury's offer to serve as a "backup plan" for a Joshua fight, keeping the heavyweight picture murky. Stateside, USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino urged caution on young talents like Cavan Sullivan, saying "we need to be careful" amid the hype.

Women's Game

Finally, ESPN's writers imagined the women's transfers they wish had happened, including Alexia Putellas to Bayern and Salma Paralluelo to Arsenal — moves that would have reshaped the European landscape.