Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 27, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

Goalkeeper Rule Change and Transfer Buzz Dominate Headlines

English football is set to trial a new rule cracking down on goalkeepers who feign injury to disrupt play or gain tactical advantages, with the measure set to be implemented this season. In transfer news, Leeds United are reportedly closing in on a club-record deal worth £40 million for Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford closing on deal, with other reports confirming Leeds are close to agreeing the club-record transfer close to deal. Manchester City are also bracing for a bid from Real Madrid for midfielder Rodri. Meanwhile, England defender John Stones is in advanced talks to join Inter Milan on a free transfer, having verbally agreed to the move amid interest from Arsenal and Chelsea.

NWSL and MLS Power Rankings Shift Amidst Player News

The Washington Spirit have reclaimed the No. 1 spot in ESPN's NWSL Power Rankings after securing their fifth win in six games, while Gotham FC dropped points on the road. Gotham FC has also agreed to mutually terminate the contract of Esther González. In MLS, the focus is on Robert Lewandowski's start with the Chicago Fire, who have yet to secure a win since his arrival, impacting their Power Rankings standing. Inter Miami forward Germán Berterame has been discharged from the hospital following a head collision during a match. Lionel Messi is set to miss the MLS All-Star Game for the second consecutive season but will avoid a suspension this time.

International Football and Coaching Moves Under Scrutiny

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has strongly criticized World Cup critics, accusing them of spreading hate. Spain's World Cup final victory saw an altercation between Dani Olmo and Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala, with Olmo rejecting an apology. Kylian Mbappé expressed his disappointment following France's World Cup final loss, stating the team "owed you a better ending". In coaching news, Paolo Maldini has resigned as technical director of the Italian Football Federation after 16 days due to the decision not to appoint Andrea Pirlo as head coach quits as director. Andrea Pirlo has also withdrawn his candidacy for the Italy head coach position due to criticism over his commercial ties with a Russian betting company. Xabi Alonso has requested patience as he begins his coaching tenure at Chelsea.

Club Transfers and Player Movements Across Europe

Leeds United are reportedly nearing a £40 million deal for Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford closing on deal. Manchester City is also anticipating a bid from Real Madrid for Rodri. Inter Milan is in advanced talks with England defender John Stones regarding a free transfer, with Stones having verbally agreed to the move. Chelsea has held initial discussions with Brighton regarding a potential deal for Danny Welbeck and is also interested in signing Jordan Henderson from Brentford. Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly set to open talks over a transfer for Bradley Barcola. Newcastle United has signed midfielder Aladji Bamba from Monaco. Celtic has had a £4 million bid for midfielder Baur rejected by Paderborn.

Other Football News and Developments

Cape Verde's Sidny Lopes Cabral has won the public vote for the best goal of the World Cup. Police are investigating allegations of misconduct at Austin FC's youth academy, which led to player expulsions and suspensions. Mexico's all-time leading scorer, Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez, is set to join USL Championship expansion team Atletico Dallas. Nigeria is aiming to win their 11th Women's Africa Cup of Nations title as they prepare for the 2026 tournament. The question of whether the U.S. would win the World Cup if its top athletes played soccer is explored, with the conclusion that it's an unlikely scenario. Looking at club academies, Chelsea is showcasing seven academy players on their pre-season tour, while Wrexham is committed to developing homegrown talent alongside high-profile signings. Liverpool's center-back situation is under review, with potential solutions from manager Andoni Iraola being considered.

Boxing, Tennis, and Other Sports Updates

Edgar Berlanga returned to winning form by knocking out Steven Butler in the seventh round of a super-middleweight contest. In tennis, Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka will team up for the mixed doubles at the US Open. Jack Draper has withdrawn from the DC Open due to a left arm injury. In golf, Lucas Glover dismissed rumors of a protest regarding the Aim Point putting technique, stating his actions were to prevent spike marks on the green. In snooker, Ronnie O'Sullivan has set a deadline of 2028 to win a record eighth World Championship, indicating he will retire if forced to play qualifying matches.

Cricket and Basketball News

Ollie Pope scored the winning runs to secure a dramatic three-wicket victory for MI London over Southern Brave in cricket. In contrast, Southern Brave edged MI London by one run in a thrilling encounter that went down to the final ball. Basketball legend Michael Jordan and David Beckham were seen having lunch together with their wives link u....

Horse Racing and Other Sporting Events

Amazonian Dream is aiming for a repeat victory at Windsor in horse racing. The AIG Women's Open is approaching its final major stage, with extensive coverage planned on Sky Sports. Prize money at the AIG Women's Open has seen a significant increase over the years, from £500 at its inception to £1.25 million.

Boxing and Fight Predictions

Dillian Whyte believes both Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua might retire after their highly anticipated fight. Similarly, Nelson also feels Tyson Fury has the edge in the fight and is more excited about it than ever.

Other Sports News

England's netball team bounced back from a Commonwealth Games defeat against Australia to secure a victory over Malawi. Lando Norris has not ruled out a title challenge in Formula 1 and believes the pressure is on championship leader Kimi Antonelli.