Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 28, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

Zidane Takes Helm of France National Team

Zinedine Zidane has officially been appointed as the new head coach of the France national team, marking his return to management after a five-year hiatus. The French Football Federation confirmed the decision, with Zidane revealing he turned down numerous job offers during his time away because his sole ambition was to manage Les Bleus. His last coaching role was with Real Madrid, which concluded in 2021. The federation's announcement followed earlier confirmations of his new role.

Premier League Transfer Rumors and Activity

Juventus have expressed interest in signing Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee, with Manchester United open to offers. Meanwhile, Chelsea are reportedly in talks with Brighton over a deal for Danny Welbeck and are also interested in signing Jordan Henderson from Brentford. Chelsea are targeting experienced players like Maxence Lacroix, Jordan Henderson, and Danny Welbeck, shifting focus from a youth-centric approach. Real Madrid have submitted a new contract offer to Vinícius Júnior, while Liverpool are pursuing Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa. Leeds United are nearing a club-record deal worth approximately £40 million for Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford. Manchester City are also bracing for a bid from Real Madrid for midfielder Rodri and hope he will sign a new contract. Inter Milan are in advanced talks with defender John Stones, who has verbally agreed to a free transfer move despite interest from Arsenal and Chelsea. Bruno Guimarães of Newcastle United is reportedly moving closer to joining Arsenal.

Club News and Preseason Preparations

Manchester United's preseason tour is underway, but the club still has significant work to address before the upcoming season. Chelsea are showcasing seven academy players on their preseason tour as they look to break into the first team. Managerless Rangers have few excuses this season with an experienced leader and financial backing. Falkirk's manager, Gary McGlynn, is aiming high for the new season despite a summer of changes. Cwmbran Celtic and Cwmbran Town are set to play their first derby match in 16 years, separated by only 40 meters.

International Football and World Cup Reflections

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has criticized World Cup detractors, accusing them of spreading negativity. Kylian Mbappé expressed his disappointment with France's World Cup final performance, stating it "hurts, and will hurt for a while". Argentina's coach, Lionel Scaloni, defended his players after their World Cup final loss, calling them "warriors". Dani Olmo has rejected an apology from Argentina's assistant coach, Roberto Ayala, following an altercation after the World Cup final. Nigeria's Super Falcons are aiming for their 11th Women's Africa Cup of Nations title as they prepare to face Malawi, Zambia, and Egypt. England bounced back from a netball defeat to Australia by defeating Malawi in Glasgow.

Other Sports News and Updates

Caroline Dubois has parted ways with trainer Shane McGuigan ahead of her title defense against Amelia Moore on August 29. Katie Boulter was eliminated from the Mubadala DC Open after a 3-6 6-2 6-2 loss to Ashlyn Krueger. Jack Draper has withdrawn from the DC Open due to a left arm injury. Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka will team up for the US Open mixed doubles. Ronnie O'Sullivan has set a deadline of 2028 to win a record eighth World Snooker Championship, indicating he will retire if qualifying matches are required. Dillian Whyte believes Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua might both retire after their upcoming fight. Lucas Glover denied his shoe removal during a PGA Tour event was a protest against the Aim Point putting technique, stating it was to prevent spike marks. George Russell expressed frustration with his "misfortune" this season after an engine issue at the Hungarian Grand Prix.

Soccer League and Player Updates

ESPN's MLS Power Rankings place the Chicago Fire without a win in Robert Lewandowski's first two games. Gotham FC and Esther González have mutually agreed to terminate their contract. The Washington Spirit have reclaimed the top spot in ESPN's NWSL Power Rankings, while Gotham FC dropped points. Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez is reportedly set to join USL Championship expansion team Atletico Dallas. Inter Miami forward Germán Berterame has been released from the hospital after a head collision during a match. Barcelona has unveiled its 2026-27 away kit, a collaboration with Kobe Bryant's signature brand. Arsenal's new away kit draws inspiration from their 1990s "Bruised Banana" jersey. Real Madrid's new away kit is their first green jersey since incorporating José Mourinho's arrival.

League Rule Changes and Innovations

English football will trial measures to prevent goalkeepers from feigning injury to disrupt play or gain tactical advantages this season. The trial aims to eradicate "goalkeeper tactical timeouts".