Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 21, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

World Cup Fallout and Player Movements

Lionel Messi has returned to Rosario, Argentina, to rest after the World Cup final loss to Spain, and will also take time off before rejoining Inter Miami CF. Despite the final defeat, Messi sent a heartfelt thank-you message to his fans. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez is contemplating his international future following the World Cup heartbreak, while Enzo Fernández expressed that wearing Argentina's shirt is the "greatest honour" and pledged to continue giving his all for the team, defending Argentina's performance in the final. Spain's World Cup-winning squad returned home for a celebratory parade in Madrid, and bookmakers have already installed them as favorites to win the 2030 World Cup. The World Cup final itself was a memorable event, with the halftime show featuring performances from BTS, Justin Bieber, Madonna, and Shakira, and trading card company Topps is releasing a special one-of-a-kind card featuring Messi and Lamine Yamal.

Club Signings and Transfer Rumors

Premier League clubs are active in the transfer market following the World Cup. Middlesbrough have agreed on a fee with Tottenham for striker Will Lankshear, which could rise to a club-record £20 million. Ipswich Town have completed the £20 million signing of Ghana winger Abdul Fatawu. Aston Villa are in talks to sign Chelsea winger Alejandro Garnacho on loan, with a potential obligation to buy, and have also signed Japan goalkeeper Akane Okuma. Everton have agreed on a deal to sign Finland international Jutta Rantala from Leicester City and have also signed Australian striker Holly McNamara on a free transfer. West Ham have reached an agreement with Al Hilal for the sale of Crysencio Summerville. In other transfer news, Paris FC has signed Mali forward Lassine Sinayoko, bringing their offseason spending above €65 million ($74m), and Jhon Durán has joined Benfica on loan, marking his seventh club at the age of 22. Arsenal are reportedly interested in Athletic Club winger Nico Williams, and Manchester United and Arsenal are both vying for France's Manu Kone. Chelsea are in discussions with Crystal Palace regarding the signing of defender Maxence Lacroix.

League and Tournament News

In the NWSL, Gotham FC has climbed to the top of the Power Rankings after a victory over the Spirit, with key players like Rose Lavelle and Sam Kerr in form. The Hundred competition kicked off with Sun Risers Leeds Women defeating MI London. The 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco is set to begin, with details on favorites, format, and kick-off times available. Wrexham's women's team is making their debut in the Champions League. The 2026 Community Shield will be held in Wales. Long-serving Premier League referee Anthony Taylor is retiring after 16 years.

Other Sporting Events and Developments

In darts, Cameron Menzies produced a significant upset at the World Matchplay, defeating world No. 2 Luke Humphries 10-7. In boxing, sparring partner Brandon Moore believes Kristian Prenga can defeat Anthony Joshua. Australian bowlers Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon, and Josh Hazlewood are fit to return for the Test series against Bangladesh. Lewis Hamilton has stated he needs to improve his performance following setbacks at Spa. Jon Rahm has remained tight-lipped about his LIV Golf future.

Off-Field Issues and Fan Concerns

FIFA has opened an investigation into the post-final unrest involving Argentina. La Liga president Javier Tebas has called for FIFA president Gianni Infantino to resign, criticizing the governing body's impact on the football industry, and questions remain about Infantino's potential push for a 64-team World Cup. Manchester United fans have expressed anger over a ticket ultimatum related to a crackdown on touting. Counterfeit football shirts worth over £18 million were seized in the UK during the World Cup due to safety concerns. Over 1,000 illegal streaming websites were shut down in the US and Colombia during the tournament. Rangers and Celtic face disciplinary charges following unrest at their Scottish Cup meeting. Newcastle United supporters will vote on a new club badge.