Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: June 2, 2026, 2:43 PM ET

World Cup Preparations

Mexico's soccer federation lost its appeal against FIFA punishments for fans chanting anti-gay slurs at opponents' play, just days before the FIFA World Cup opens in Mexico City. In other World Cup news, Lionel Messi trained on his own in Argentina's first practice session in the United States as he continues recovery from a hamstring problem. Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon will be the oldest player at the World Cup at 43 years old, though he has not been handed the number one shirt. England players and head coach Thomas Tuchel arrived in Florida for their pre-World Cup camp to begin tournament preparations.

Squad Announcements

The final 26-player World Cup squads have been confirmed, with England announcing their squad numbers for the tournament revealing Bellingham as No 10, potentially hinting at Thomas Tuchel's tactical thinking. Scotland's squad numbers were also announced showing Gilmour missing out, with the Napoli midfielder admitting it's been "a tough one to get my head around" after dropping out through injury. Ghana's Antoine Semenyo starts from the bench against Wales in a friendly before the tournament, while Jordan's Mousa Al-Tamari features in their final squad for their World Cup debut this summer.

Managerial Changes

Fulham confirmed manager Marco Silva will be leaving the club after a five-year stint at Craven Cottage, with the 48-year-old close to agreeing a deal to take over at Benfica. Meanwhile, Guillermo Hoyos will continue to lead Inter Miami as head coach following the MLS World Cup break, with sources confirming his retention. Liverpool have opened formal talks with Iraola as they begin the process of appointing a new head coach following Arne Slot's dismissal after winning the title, creating a managerial reset at some of Europe's biggest clubs.

Transfer News

Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate is increasingly likely to sign for Real Madrid as a free agent after his exit from Liverpool was confirmed, with the Frenchman in advanced talks with the La Liga club. Manchester City's Alexander Isak scored for Sweden in a 3-1 loss to Norway with Haaland watching from the stands, highlighting the talent pool heading to the World Cup. Arsenal defender William Saliba is very doubtful for the World Cup after injuring his back weeks ago, potentially impacting France's tournament preparations.

Club News

Chelsea have unveiled their new 2026-27 home kit, though the design was seen before its official release. Barcelona could move for Harry Kane if a deal for Atlético Madrid's Julián Álvarez falls through, while Juventus are interested in signing either Emi Martinez or Guglielmo Vicario from Aston Villa and Tottenham respectively. In other transfer news, Brighton chief executive Paul Barber called James Milner a remarkable person, admitting they tried to persuade the midfielder to postpone his retirement for another year.