Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: July 31, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

FIFA Leadership and World Cup Plans Face Scrutiny

FIFA president Infantino has scrapped his proposal to sell stakes in the World Cup following widespread backlash and a threatened boycott from Europe. Football's world body has abandoned plans to sell off stakes in its major competitions after significant opposition to Infantino's proposal. Infantino is currently in the eye of a storm after retracting his attempt to sell stakes in the World Cup, leading to speculation about who might replace him if he departs. Two senior officials criticized Infantino's World Cup sell-off plan, with one resigning as a presidential advisor and another stating that staff were deceived by the project. FIFA has also advanced plans for a 64-team World Cup, initiating a consultation process with a decision aimed for by August 14. Despite controversy FIFA plans to continue the consultation process for its investment plan, even after UEFA threatened to boycott World Cups. Prime Minister Burnham stated that Gianni Infantino is "the wrong man" to lead FIFA, increasing pressure on the president after a key advisor resigned over his controversial plan. Burnham has described Infantino as "the wrong man" to lead FIFA, intensifying the pressure on world football's president. Infantino's controversial to sell stakes in competitions to private investors has been heavily criticized, though the body running African football has yet to take a definitive stance. FIFA is doubling down on its World Cup plans amidst a UEFA boycott threat, asserting that "nobody is selling football." Infantino's initiatives are seen by some as potentially making women's football "the first casualties," according to former England defender Anita Asante.

Managerial Changes and Transfer Speculation in English Football

Newcastle United conf Eddie Howe has stepped down from his role as head coach after nearly five years in charge. Arsenal Newcastle have agreed on a fee for ães, with Arsenal growing more confident of signing the midfielder following Howe's exit. Manchester City pudeal for Ayyoub Bouaddi regardless of doubts surrounding Rodri's future at the Etihad Stadium. Chelsea winger Mudryk has to play after his doping ban was resolved, allowing him to return to action immediately. Chelsea has been fined £10 million and given a suspended two-window tran by an independent appeal board after admitting breaches of Football Association agent rules. The club was fined £10 million Football Association for breaching rules related to payments to agents between 2009 and 2022. Chelsea avoided a points deduction for rule breaches and have been fined £10 million ($13m) and handed a suspended two-window transfer ban by the FA after admitting 74 breaches of its agent regulations. Swansea City coach Vitor Matos has agreed to a new contract that will keep him at the Championship club until 2030.

Scottish Football Sees League Return and Transfer Activity

Rangers began the Derek McInnes era with a stuttering start, coming from behind to secure a draw at Dundee United in the opening match of the Scottish Premiership season. McInnes insists Rangers will improve following his team's draw at Dundee United in the Scottish Premiership. Scottish Premiership season is set to begin, with questions remaining about whether any team can challenge Celtic and Rangers for the title, mirroring Hearts' success last term. A number of game date changes have been made due to live TV coverage, including BBC Scotland's broadcast of the Fife derby between Dunfermline Athletic and Raith Rovers. Chris Cadden left Hibernian to join Scottish Premiership rivals Aberdeen, seeking more game time and a fresh challenge. Celtic have rejected a bid from West Ham for Arne Engels and confirmed interest from Everton in Alistair Johnston. boss Martin O'Neill is keen to avoid losing more key players amid interest in Engels and Johnston, reiterating his desire to keep them. West Ham in discussions with Celtic regarding the signing of Arne Engels, with the Scottish club seeking a fee of around £25 million.

European and International Football News

Inter Miami Guillermo Hoyos stated he will be discussing Lionel Messi's return to action following his participation in the 2026 World Cup with Argentina. Brazilian midfielder described Lionel Messi as the "god of football" and joined Inter Miami with the aim of helping the Argentina forward win more trophies. Former striker Forlán has been appointed as the interim head coach of Uruguay's national team until March 2027. Real Madrid signed forward Carlos Espí from Levante on a five-year contract. Real Madrid open to the possibility of Vinícius Júnior leaving the club if a new contract agreement is not reached, and they do not plan to increase their offer. Jude Bellingham Real Madrid and England star, returned to Birmingham City to watch his former club defeat Barcelona on penalties after a 2-2 draw. AC Milan Italy legend Franco Baresi has died at the age of. Chelsea England forward Aggie Beever-Jones faced a significant decision regarding her future after a challenging 2025-26 season.

Other Football Notes and Player Movements

Vozinha, the breakout Cape Verde goalkeeper, will be permitted to display his nickname on his jersey upon joining Chilean football. Kieron Bowie Scotland international, has completed a loan move from Hellas Verona to Serie A side Sassuolo. The U.S. men's national team's latest World Cup exit is being re-examined using xG data to understand their performances since 1990. The question of whether Mauricio Pochettino remains the coach of the United States men's national team is a pressing one for U.S. Soccer. Bournemouth have agreed to a deal worth nearly £26 million for Benfica centre-back Antonio Silva. There is speculation that Bournemouth might find defensive talent again with the potential signing of Silva. J.J. Watt minority shareholder in Burnley, has been involved in promoting the English soccer team, even participating in delivering milk around the town. Premier League's 2026-27 kits are being released, with many top clubs having already unveiled their new designs. United pursued affordable transfer options, while Chelsea, Manchester City, and Spurs invested heavily in their squads.