Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 17, 2026, 11:31 AM ET

World Cup Final Approaches Amidst Transfer Buzz and Player Contracts

The 2026 World Cup final is set to proceed without weather concerns, despite air quality warnings in the region. In player contract news, Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai has signed a new long-term, five-year deal with the club, signs new. Manchester United's Andrey Santos has been included in the squad for their friendly against Wrexham in Helsinki, potentially marking his debut for the club. Atlético Madrid president Enrique Cerezo has stated that Julián Álvarez will remain with the club next season, rebuffing Barcelona's interest. Meanwhile, Heart of Midlothian has announced the departure of goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow and the signing of Beau Reus as his replacement. West Ham United captain Jarrod Bowen has committed his future to the club despite their relegation. Arsenal has signed Danish youth international goalkeeper Isabella Damm from Brondby IF.

England Reflects on World Cup Exit, Looks Ahead to Future Tournaments

Despite their World Cup semi-final loss, England has several reasons for optimism regarding their future footballing prospects. Manager Thomas Tuchel, facing criticism after the semi-final defeat, is reportedly unfazed. However, questions linger about whether anything has truly changed for the England team under Tuchel compared to the previous tenure of Gareth Southgate. England captain Harry Kane stated it's too soon to determine if the 2026 World Cup was his last, acknowledging the team needs to "find a way to get better" my last. Following the semi-final loss to Argentina, Jude Bellingham was seen slapping the back of Argentinian player Valentín Barco's head. The British government has urged FIFA to investigate Argentina's team after players posed with a banner claiming sovereignty over the Falklands following their semi-final win over England. England has also switched hotels in Buenos Aires to avoid potential celebrations should Argentina win the World Cup final.

World Cup Narratives and the Race for Individual Accolades

As the 2026 World Cup nears its conclusion, the final could prove pivotal in the Ballon d'Or race. Lionel Messi, potentially playing in his final World Cup game, is preparing to lead Argentina against Spain. Messi has asserted that nothing was handed to Argentina during their World Cup campaign. Spain's elite defense has been a key factor in their journey to the final, contrasting with their famed attacking style. The World Cup final will feature a matchup between Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal, who met as baby and player decades ago. Spain's 2010 World Cup-winning squad is being compared to the current contingent aiming for similar success. UEFA has announced that its VAR officials will not consider simulation as a mistaken identity offense, unlike what was seen at the World Cup. The jersey Pelé wore during Brazil's 1958 World Cup final victory sold for $4.88 million at Sotheby's.

Transfer Market Activity and Club Signings

In transfer news, former France U21 defender Maxime Esteve has left Burnley to join RB Leipzig for a reported £27.3m leaves Burnley. Aston Villa has signed Norway international Mathilde Harviken from Juventus. West Ham has secured the permanent signing of French international Estelle Cascarino. Arsenal is reportedly accelerating their pursuit of Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers, even after agreeing to a deal for Club Brugge winger Christos Tzolis. Nottingham Forest is preparing a £45m offer for Tottenham midfielder Lucas Bergvall. Coventry City has signed Eintracht Frankfurt defender Aurele Amenda for over £17m. Celtic is finding it difficult to compete in the transfer market against English Championship clubs.

Rugby and Motorsport Updates

In rugby, Jamie George has stated he will lead his England team off the pitch against the Pumas in Argentina if racial abuse recurs. England and Argentina will meet again on Saturday in the Nations Championship following their dramatic World Cup semi-final. In motorsport, Max Verstappen was surprisingly fastest in the first practice session for the Belgian Grand Prix, ahead of Lewis Hamilton, with Mercedes struggling. Championship leader Antonelli will change his engine ahead of the first practice for the Belgian Grand Prix. British driver Oliver Bearman expressed flattery regarding speculation linking him to Red Bull amid uncertainty surrounding Max Verstappen's future. Lewis Hamilton believes his Mercedes teammates should be significantly further ahead of him in the Drivers' Championship.