Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 30, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

MLS All-Star Game & League News

Son Heung-min scored twice in three minutes to lead the MLS All-Stars to a 4-3 victory over LIGA MX All-Stars. Evander restored the MLS All-Stars' two-goal lead earlier in the match. Major League Soccer is preparing for a new era following the success of the World Cup in the United States, with Commissioner Don Garber noting a transition to a summer-to-spring calendar.

USMNT Coaching Search Continues

The U.S. Soccer Federation president, Cindy Parlow Cone, indicated that conversations with Mauricio Pochettino regarding his contract extension as U.S. men's national team coach are nearing a decision. The USMNT faces a pressing need to finalize its coaching situation soon. Advanced statistics from the USMNT's World Cup games since 1990 reveal a consistent pattern of disappointment.

European Club Transfers & Pre-Season

Liverpool continued their perfect pre-season under Andoni Iraola, defeating Wrexham 1-0 in New York. Liverpool is also reportedly set to open talks with PSG regarding a potential deal for Bradley Barcola. Wrexham have completed the signing of wing-back Danny Imray from Crystal Palace, while Jordan Henderson has left Brentford as a free agent, opening the door for a move to Chelsea. Wolves striker Tolu Arokodare has joined Ajax on a season-long loan with an option to buy. Nottingham Forest are close to agreeing a deal for Sporting Lisbon defender Ousmane Diomande. Burnley winger Luca Koleosho has signed for Ligue 1 club Paris FC. Charlton Athletic have signed Ashleigh Neville from Leicester City, and Leicester City have signed two Irish players. Newcastle United's WSL 2 side has signed Scotland forward Martha Thomas. Jurrien Timber has returned to London from Arsenal's training camp for a groin check. Jack Grealish will not join Manchester City's pre-season tour of Asia as he recovers from a foot injury. Chelsea have agreed an undisclosed fee with Brighton for Danny Welbeck, and he is set to have a medical.

International Football & Governing Body News

UEFA will hold an emergency meeting on Thursday to discuss its response to FIFA's controversial World Cup plans. FIFA has set a deadline of September 19 for member associations to access cash from a funding plan, with the FA voicing disapproval ahead of the UEFA meeting. FIFA has also opened disciplinary proceedings against Argentina for potential breaches of multiple laws during the World Cup, including a Falklands banner and behavior in the final. Brazil's sports court has suspended player Víctor Gabriel until Cruzeiro forward Gabriel Pec returns to training after sustaining a broken leg from the Inter defender's foul. Spain U20s midfielder Daniela Arques has joined London City Lionesses.

Player News & Contract Updates

Lionel Messi returned to Inter Miami on Wednesday, ten days after Argentina's World Cup final loss. Roberto Mancini, after being rehired to coach Italy, issued an apology for his previous departure. Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed he turned down the Italy coaching role, stating his commitment to Brazil. Marc Cucurella fulfilled his promise to get a tattoo of Spain coach Luis de la Fuente after winning the World Cup. Lawrence Shankland described being named the new captain of Rangers as a "huge honour." Callum McGregor insists he sees his future at Celtic and wants to win the league "in a bit more style" this term.

League and Competition Previews

The new Scottish Premiership season is back with a bang, featuring a comprehensive A-Z guide. St Johnstone manager Simo Valakari is urging his players to be "solid and streetwise" for their return to the Scottish Premiership. Real Madrid are confident of securing a deal for Manchester City's Rodri, potentially a year earlier than planned. The 2026 Formula 1 season will conclude in Europe if the final two races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi cannot be hosted due to the Middle East conflict.

Other Sports

Reigning world champion Lando Norris is still capable of retaining his Formula 1 drivers' title, according to Sky Sports F1's David Croft. Teenage dart sensation Luke Littler has left the darts world questioning his dominance after winning the World Matchplay Darts. Sebastian Bialecki secured his second PDC ranking title by defeating Mario Vandenbogaerde 8-6 in the Players Championship 26 final. England dominated Tonga 94-32 in a crucial Pool A game at the Commonwealth Games. Trent Rockets handed Welsh Fire their first defeat of the season in The Hundred, with Pretorius starring for Spirit. In a separate match, Trent Rockets beat Welsh Fire by eight wickets. Jack Draper has been given a wild card for the National Bank Open in Montreal. Nelly Korda believes a Charley Hull victory at the AIG Women's Open would be ‘great for golf,’ but she is also eyeing her own major success. Lydia Ko wants to "channel her inner Foxy" in her pursuit of more major glory.