Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: May 13, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

International Tournament Squads & Player News

As the 2026 World Cup approaches, managers are finalizing preliminary rosters, generating significant buzz and notable omissions. Argentina included Lionel Messi in their 55-man provisional list, while Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti suggested Neymar is improving but remains undecided on his inclusion. On the contrary, injury concerns forced Chelsea forward Estêvão to miss Brazil's preliminary squad, despite Neymar's inclusion in the 55-man group. Elsewhere, Mexico's provisional squad submission by Javier Aguirre featured the surprise absence of key attacker Hirving 'Chucky' Lozano and Rodrigo Huescas missing out on the provisional list, though the nation unveiled a new third alternate kit, a rarity made possible by recent FIFA rule changes allowing teams three kits.

Further updates on national team selections saw Sweden's Graham Potter name Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyökeres to headline his 26-man World Cup contingent, a move echoed by the inclusion of Isak in the initial squad details headlining the 26-man roster. Meanwhile, Scotland's Steve Clarke awaits fitness updates on Tommy Conway before naming his Tuesday deadline squad knowing whether Conway is fit, while Qatar's 42-year-old forward Sebastián Soria has been named in their preliminary squad, potentially breaking the World Cup age record. In international management news, Japan coach Eddie Jones received a six-week ban and a salary docking for directing "verbal abuse" at officials during a recent U23s' tour of Australia.

Club Management & Transfer Speculation

Manchester United executives are reportedly preparing to formally recommend Michael Carrick to Sir Jim Ratcliffe as the club's permanent manager, signaling formal talks are planned to continue his tenure beyond the current season, though some analysts suggest the consensus overlooks critical factors why Man United should reconsider Carrick. In Spain, following a trophyless season marked by internal disputes, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez called for snap elections while receiving vocal backing from coach Álvaro Arbeloa backing the incumbent president; this contrasts with the success of rivals Barcelona, who sealed the LaLiga title over Madrid after winning El Clásico, leaving Flick pleased with Lewandowski and Rashford, though decisions on both players are delayed. Across Europe, Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly targeting Atlético Madrid's Julián Álvarez making him a main target, while Manchester United are purportedly plotting a move for Real Madrid's Federico Valverde plotting a move for Valverde.

Domestic Playoff Drama & League Updates

The Championship playoffs remain mired in controversy as Southampton prepares to face Hull City in the final, though the promotion fixture is under threat due to the ongoing "Spygate" saga; Middlesbrough manager Kim Hellberg slammed Saints for "disgraceful spying", stating the situation "breaks my heart," while Southampton's semi-final hero Shea Charles called his winning goal against Boro an unforgettable moment a moment he will never forget. If found guilty by an independent commission, Southampton risks being ejected from the play-offs, a development that would throw the final fixture into disarray as Middlesbrough hopes to head to Wembley could yet head to Wembley. In Scotland, the Premiership title race has tightened to a single point separating Hearts and Celtic heading into the final two fixtures separated by just one point, with Hearts facing the immense historical pressure of potentially claiming their first title in 66 years crowned champions on Wednesday.

Player Journeys & League Growth

Actor Cristo Fernández, known for playing Dani Rojas on Ted Lasso, has officially transitioned from the screen to the pitch, signing a professional contract with USL Championship side El Paso Locomotive after completing a two-month trial signing for USL team. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi continues to dominate the financial landscape of Major League Soccer, remaining the highest-paid player for the third consecutive year with an annual base salary of $25m, more than double the next earner. In youth football, the FA Youth Cup final between Manchester City and Manchester United, which offers a window into the next generation, will be streamed by BBC Sport on Thursday; Darren Fletcher noted that Michael Carrick’s presence is particularly inspiring for the United youngsters Carrick presence inspiring for kids.