Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: August 1, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

FIFA Leadership Under Scrutiny Amidst Controversial Plans

FIFA president Infantino has "lost the confidence" of UEFA due to a proposed plan to sell stakes in a World Cup company to private investors . football's governing body stated that Infantino has "failed to deliver" on promises made during his election ten years ago . controversial plan to sell stakes in future World Cup profits to private equity investors was abandoned by Infantino following significant opposition from football's governing bodies . This move by Infantino has been described by some as his "Icarus moment" . Despite controversy and scrapped plans to privatize the World Cup, Infantino remains in a powerful position after 10 years as FIFA president . The 2027 Women's World Cup was identified as the first major tournament that would have been impacted by FIFA's plans, which were seen as showing disrespect to the women's game . FIFA has advanced plans for a 64-team men's World Cup, initiating a consultation process with documents suggesting a decision by August 14 . The body running African football has yet to take a definitive stance on FIFA's plan to sell stakes in its competitions, despite widespread criticism . Questions are being raised about who might replace Infantino if he were to leave his position .

Premier League Transfer Activity and Academy Prospects

United opted for more affordable signings in the summer transfer window, while Chelsea, Manchester City, and Tottenham Hotspur all made significant expenditures . Manchester City to pursue a deal for Ayyoub Bouaddi regardless of Rodri's uncertain future at the Etihad Stadium . Arsenal is increasingly confident of securing the signing of Bruno Guimarães from Newcastle United, especially following the departure of manager Eddie Howe . Arsenal Newcastle United have reportedly agreed on a fee for Bruno Guimarães, with Inter Milan also increasing their bid for Curtis Jones and Cristian Romero exploring a move to Spain . Chelsea winger Mudryk has been cleared to play after his doping ban was resolved . Chelsea has been fined £10 million and given a suspended two-window transfer ban by an independent appeal board for admitting breaches of Football Association agent rules . Shea Lacey Tyler Fletcher are considered the most likely Manchester United academy players to break into the senior squad this season .

Club Football News and Pre-Season Preparations

Bayer Munich actively searching for a long-term successor to Harry Kane and has included Manchester United striker Benjamin Sesko on their shortlist . Real Madrid open to the possibility of Vinícius Júnior departing the club if a new contract agreement cannot be reached, and they have no plans to increase their offer . Jude Bellingham Real Madrid and England star, returned to Birmingham City to witness his former club defeat Barcelona on penalties after a 2-2 draw . Liverpool's pre-season new head coach Andoni Iraola is intensifying, with insights gained from their first open training session . Burnley's profile has been boosted by minority shareholder J.J. Watt, who recently delivered the team's new kit . Tottenham Hotspur avoided Premier League relegation last season but is thriving off the pitch, with questions arising about whether building a new stadium circumvents spending rules . Celtic Rangers are reportedly in pursuit of Italy-based winger Ghedjemis, while a German midfielder is set on a move to Celtic . Hearts head Wouter Vrancken aims for another title challenge despite his team needing to adapt to a "totally different style of play" . Swansea City coach Vitor Matos has agreed to a new contract that will keep him at the Championship club until 2030 . City's James McClean suggests that the team's European form indicates an "issue somewhere" within the club, rather than a lack of effort .

International and Domestic League Updates

England's netball has to settle for a bronze medal match after a disappointing 61-54 semi-final defeat to New Zealand in the Commonwealth Games . Boxer Tarona has secured Tuvalu's first-ever Commonwealth Games medal, a bronze in the women's 75kg boxing division, without winning a fight . Cameron Norrie the Los Cabos Open after his losing streak continued, being beaten by Denis Shapovalov . The Scottish Premiership season has begun, with Rangers starting their Derek McInnes era with a draw at Dundee United after coming from behind . Live TV including BBC Scotland's broadcast of the Fife derby between Dunfermline Athletic and Raith Rovers, has led to date changes for several games in the Premier Sports Cup and Scottish Premiership .

Other Sports and Event News

England captain Root has stated he does not intend to "completely rip everything up" from the Bazball era as he takes on the Test captaincy for a second time . Charley Hull in contention for the AIG Women's Open title, insisting she "does not care" about criticism regarding a pre-major caddie prank and overcoming limited sleep . World No. Cameron Young surged into a share of the lead at the Rocket Classic in Detroit after a second-round nine-under 61 . Wardley's manager Mike Ofo, has responded critically to doubts raised by Daniel Dubois' advisor, Sam Jones, regarding a heavyweight rematch . Stewards' Cup at Goodwood is a significant handicap race on Saturday, with Sky Sports Racing ambassador Hollie Doyle sharing her insights . American Affair Scottish sprinter, returned to form to win the King George Qatar Stakes at Goodwood . Cole Palmer he watched England at the World Cup but fell asleep at halftime during the game against Mexico . Super League Leeds secured a dominant 46-0 victory over Toulouse, while Wigan Warriors maintained their position just two points behind with a 20-8 win against Leigh Leopards . Rockets secured a victory against Manchester Super Giants in a top-of-the-table clash in The Hundred, propelled by Finn Allen's unbeaten 72 from 35 balls . We have a busy day of horse racing on Saturday with flat action from Doncaster and Lingfield Park, broadcast live on Sky Sports Racing .

Player Approvals and League Grades

Vozinha, the breakout Cape Verde goalkeeper who gained global recognition during the World Cup, will be permitted to display his nickname on his jersey upon joining Chilean football . Manchester City Phil Foden is focused on "repaying" the club's faith and looks forward to a "fresh start" under new manager Enzo Maresca . A review of the NWSL's midseason performance has graded all 16 teams, with assessments ranging from A+ to F .