Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 21, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

World Cup 2026 Wraps Up, to 2030

Spain emerged as champions of the 2026 World Cup, defeating Argentina 1-0 in a hard-fought final. Lionel Messi, despite a disappointing performance in the final from Argentina fans, though his future with the national team remains uncertain. The tournament itself will be remembered for a mix of the spectacular and the controversial, with viral moments and celebrity attendees filling the headlines. CONMEBOL president Alejandro Domínguez announced that the 2030 World Cup will, a sentiment echoed by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who is pushing for expansion. Bookmakers have already to repeat as champions in 2030. The final match itself, with 15.8 million people tuning in on the BBC. FIFA has also opened an investigation into post-final incidents involving Argentina.

Player Movements and Transfer Buzz

Following the conclusion of the World Cup, the transfer market is heating up. Arsenal has reportedly for Athletic Club winger Nico Williams, while Manchester United and Arsenal are also. Chelsea is in talks with Crystal Palace for defender Maxence Lacroix for a fee exceeding £55 million, and Morgan Rogers' £117 million move to Chelsea from Aston Villa is being scrutinized. Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott has rejected a new contract, attracting interest from Premier League giants Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United. Tottenham has in France international Alice Sombath from Lyon. Meanwhile, Bayern Munich defender Konrad Laimer has signed a new three-year deal, and Liverpool has completed the signing of attacking midfielder Mao Itamura from Feyenoord.

Club and League Updates

In the NWSL, Gotham FC has climbed to the top of the power rankings, thanks to strong performances from Rose Lavelle, Esther González, Jaedyn Shaw, and Sam Kerr. Wrexham's women's team is making its debut in the Champions League, facing FC Pyunik. Scottish Premiership clubs are also preparing for European competitions, with Hearts looking to "go for it" in their Champions League quest. Celtic forward Daizen Maeda is reportedly attracting interest from Ipswich Town. In other news, former Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran has.

Other Football News and Noteworthy Events

The World Cup saw record-breaking numbers, with 308 goals scored across 104 games in the three host countries. Counterfeit football shirts worth over £18 million were seized in the UK due to safety concerns. The integrity of the World Cup has been questioned by Europe's top human rights body, urging FIFA to build a stronger framework for 2030. Nauru remains the only nation to have never played an official international football match as discussions continue. The passing of England legend Kevin Keegan at the age of 75 was announced, with tributes pouring in for the gifted and charismatic figure.