Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 22, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

Spain's Dominance and World Cup Reflections

Spain's historic achievement of holding both the men's and women's World Cups simultaneously is a testament to a generation of dedicated development. The atmosphere surrounding Spain's World Cup final preparation was palpable In the air as Spain prepared. After the final whistle, Lionel Messi offered encouragement to Lamine Yamal, advising him "to go his own way". Despite not playing at his peak due to injury, Yamal was instrumental in Spain's World Cup triumph, according to Robert Lewandowski. World Cup winners Fabián Ruiz and Gavi were celebrated in their hometowns, receiving their weight in tomatoes for their victory. Gavi also urged FIFA not to punish Argentina for their actions following the final. Enzo Fernández expressed that wearing Argentina's shirt is the "greatest honour" and pledged continued dedication after the World Cup final heartache. The 2026 FIFA World Cup generated record betting handle in the U.S., rivaling the Super Bowl, and captivated North America with over 60 million viewers tuning in for Spain's 1-0 victory over Argentina. Gabriele Marcotti reflected on the tournament, suggesting Argentina let Messi down. Memorable viral moments contributed to the World Cup's legacy.

MLS Transfers and Player Movements

Inter Miami CF secured a 3-2 victory over Chicago, spoiling Robert Lewandowski's MLS debut with two goals from Luis Suárez and Preston Plambeck scoring his first career MLS goal. Major League Soccer is investigating Inter Miami over an alleged tampering violation concerning the signing of Casemiro. Casemiro has officially joined Inter Miami on a free transfer after departing Manchester United. Mexico's legendary goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa has announced his retirement after a distinguished 22-year career. Elijah Just, who scored three goals for New Zealand during the World Cup, has signed with Championship club Swansea.

European Club Signings and Transfer Rumors

Transfer news continues to dominate headlines as the summer window opens. Liverpool is reportedly confident of signing Bradley Barcola. Arsenal is also interested in Barcola after missing out on Morgan Rogers, who has moved to Chelsea. Aston Villa has agreed to a deal to sign Alejandro Garnacho, though the specifics of the deal suggest a loan rather than a permanent transfer, raising questions about balancing the books. Chelsea's acquisition of Morgan Rogers from Manchester City is considered a high-risk, high-reward deal, and Chelsea has a history of signing numerous players from the Manchester City academy. Barcelona is nearing a record-breaking €1.5 million deal for Brazilian forward Kerolin from Manchester City. Liverpool has made an initial approach for Monaco winger Maghnes Akliouche, and head coach Andoni Iraola believes the club has "obvious" transfer needs to address. Newcastle is reportedly seeking upwards of £80 million for Arsenal target Bruno Guimaraes, expressing frustration with Arsenal's pursuit. Manchester United is exploring the possibility of signing Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga. Ipswich Town has signed defender Issa Diop from Fulham for £8.5 million. Middlesbrough has signed Tottenham striker Will Lankshear on a deal that could rise to a club-record £20 million. Celtic is reportedly poised to sign Mika Baur from Paderborn for £4 million. Jutta Rantala has become the third Leicester player to join Everton. Arsenal has completed the free signing of former Real Madrid goalkeeper Misa Rodriguez. Newcastle United is in advanced talks to sign Leanne Kiernan from Liverpool. Derby County has signed Filip Bilbija after his departure from Paderborn.

Club News and Player Updates

Tottenham Hotspur began their pre-season with a 1-0 victory over MK Dons, featuring a volleyed screamer from Fernandes. Arsenal has confirmed that William Saliba will be out for an extended period due to a back injury. Phil Foden has signed a new contract with Manchester City. Wolves striker Tolu Arokodare caused a training session cancellation by refusing to leave the pitch. Rangers are set to appeal a four-match touchline ban for manager Derek McInnes. Hearts have faced a collapse in Europe, with Daizen Maeda nearing an exit as Rangers continue their rebuilding. The FA has charged TNS chairman Harris over a social media post. Southampton boss Tonda Eckert has been charged by the FA with misconduct related to the 'Spygate' scandal. Wrexham is set to appoint Newcastle's Nickson as their sporting director. Liverpool has issued hundreds of lifetime bans after seizing over £1.2 million in assets related to illegal ticket sales. Manchester United has faced backlash from supporter groups regarding restrictions on online season-ticket accounts.

Other Sports News

The 2028 NWSL season will not see Denver Summit FC's new stadium ready on schedule. In darts, Cameron Menzies withdrew from the World Matchplay due to illness, leading to Gerwyn Price advancing to the quarter-finals. Wade has clinched a quarter-final spot, stating, "Darts is my life". In boxing, Josh Kelly is anticipating a "spiteful" fight against Caoimhin Agyarko for the IBF light-middleweight title. Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua have exchanged insults, casting fresh doubts on their potential fight. In Formula, Kimi Antonelli will miss the Hungarian Grand Prix first practice session, as will four other drivers. Lewis Hamilton expects Ferrari to be competitive at the Hungarian Grand Prix, urging them to "come and fight for the win". In horse racing, Jamie Lynch provides his runner guide for the King George race at Ascot. In cricket, Phil Salt led Welsh Fire to a six-wicket victory over Southern Brave in The Hundred, weathering a bowling storm from Jofra Archer. Southern Brave captain Sophie Molineux starred with three wickets in their eight-run comeback victory against Welsh Fire Women Molineux stars.