Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 29, 2026, 2:30 PM ET

International Management Carousel Spins

Zinedine Zidane has officially returned to management as the new coach of France, his first role since leaving Real Madrid in 2021. Meanwhile, Roberto Mancini has issued an apology for his previous departure before being rehired to manage a crisis-stricken Italy squad. The United States men's national team, however, lingers with uncertainty regarding Mauricio Pochettino's coaching status.

Club Signings and Transfers Shake Up Leagues

In the Women's Super League, Charlton Athletic have secured the signing of Ashleigh Neville from Leicester City on a two-year deal, while Newcastle United have added Scotland forward Martha Thomas. London City Lionesses have also announced the acquisition of Spanish youth international Daniela Arques from Sporting. On the men's side, Jordan Henderson has departed Brentford as a free agent, with Chelsea poised to sign him, and Wolves striker Tolu Arokodare has joined Ajax on loan with an option for a permanent transfer. Nottingham Forest are reportedly closing in on Sporting Lisbon defender Ousmane Diomande, and Burnley winger Luca Koleosho has transferred to Ligue 1 club Paris FC.

Club Pre-Season and Preparations Underway

Manchester United's preseason tour is underway, though several issues remain for the club to address. Tottenham Hotspur secured their third pre-season victory by defeating Sydney FC on penalties after a 1-1 draw, featuring a stunning free-kick from Mathys Tel. Barcelona are training at St George's Park and are scheduled to face Championship sides Birmingham City and Preston. Jurrien Timber has returned to London from Arsenal's training camp in Spain for a groin injury assessment, and Jack Grealish has been left out of Manchester City's pre-season tour of Asia due to a foot injury.

Player Movements and Contractual Developments

Rangers have reportedly accepted an offer from Anderlecht for winger Oliver Antman, while Celtic have had a permanent bid for Benjamin Arthur rejected. Chelsea are also preparing to pay their first fee for an over-26 player since 2022, with Danny Welbeck set for a medical. Real Madrid are confident that Vinícius Júnior will remain at the club, despite interest from Arsenal, and Liverpool are keen on Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa. Manchester City winger Savinho is and is interested in joining Tottenham.

Club and League Matters

La Liga club Rayo Vallecano have been barred from playing at their home stadium due to the risk of Legionnaires' disease. In Scotland, Lawrence Shankland has been confirmed as the new captain of Rangers, while Celtic captain Callum McGregor insists he wants to win the league "in a bit more style" this term. St Johnstone players are being urged by manager Simo Valakari to be "solid and streetwise" on their return to. Hearts have faced criticism following their Champions League elimination under Wouter Vrancken.

FIFA and Governing Body Developments