Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: August 2, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

Preseason Friendlies and Managerial Debuts

Real Madrid 2-2 with Fiorentina in a preseason friendly, marking new coach José Mourinho's first game in charge. Manchester City drew 1-1 with Inter Milan in Hong Kong, ultimately losing 3-1 on penalties in Enzo Maresca's inaugural match as manager. Bryan Mbeumo twice to lead Manchester United to a 2-1 friendly victory over Atlético Madrid in Stockholm. Arsenal recorded a dominant 4-1 win against Girona in their pre-season game in Catalonia, with Max Dowman scoring a goal and providing an assist.

Transfer Market Buzz and Club Moves

Bournemouth are nearing a £11.1m move for Sevilla right-back Juanlu as new manager Marco Rose finalizes his squad. Celtic are reportedly preparing a new bid for a Serie A midfielder, while Rangers have opened talks for a winger from a newly-promoted Premier League team. Former Liverpool Mohamed Salah is reportedly set to join Turkish club Trabzonspor. Newcastle United reportedly interested in signing USMNT midfielder Tyler Adams. Manchester City pursuing a deal for Ayyoub Bouaddi, irrespective of Rodri's future at the club. Brentford has confirmed the signing of Mali midfielder Mamadou Sangare from Lens for a club-record fee. A consortium led by Amanda Staveley has agreed to a deal for a minority stake in West Ham.

FIFA and World Cup Controversies

FIFA president Infantino's plans to sell off the World Cup were considered ham-fisted and delusional from both a business and political standpoint. These controversial plans for the 2027 Women's World Cup were seen as disrespectful to the women's game. Despite a recent implosion of a controversial World Cup investment plan, FIFA has initiated a consultation process for expanding the men's World Cup to 64 teams, aiming for a decision by August 14.

Player Performances and League Action

Robert Lewandowski two goals, including the game-winner, in his home debut for the Chicago Fire, securing a 2-1 victory over Charlotte FC. Dunkley's 56 off 33 balls propelled the Trent Rockets to a five-run victory over Sun Risers Leeds in The Hundred at Trent Bridge. England's netball suffered a comprehensive 68-50 defeat to Australia in the Commonwealth Games bronze-medal match. Pierce O'Leary his first professional defeat after being stopped by Mark Chamberlain in a fight in Dublin. Aberdeen secured a 2-1 victory over Hearts in their Scottish Premiership opener at Pittodrie, with Hearts conceding two late goals. Phillips scored in each half to give St Mirren a 2-0 away win against Falkirk in their Scottish Premiership opener. Wolves moved to fourth in the Betfred Super League table with a 48-18 win at Castleford Tigers.

Club News and Managerial Comments

Defender Josko believes new manager Enzo Maresca is a "perfect one" for Manchester City. Arsenal manager Arteta remained non-committal regarding reported links to Real Madrid winger Vinícius Júnior but anticipates further club activity before the transfer window closes. Real Madrid reportedly open to Vinícius Júnior's departure if a new contract agreement cannot be reached, and they do not plan to increase their offer. Jude Bellingham his former club Birmingham City defeat Barcelona on penalties after a 2-2 draw.

Other Football News

Asisat Oshoala the decisive goal in Nigeria's 1-0 victory over Zambia at Wafcon 2026, boosting their hopes of reaching the 2027 Women's World Cup. Cape Verde Vozinha will be permitted to display his nickname on his jersey as he joins a Chilean football club. NWSL season is at its halfway point, with an assessment of all 16 teams' performance available. The Sunday newspapers suggest Manchester United is considering a move for Arsenal's Lewis-Skelly. There is mention of star signings that clubs nearly made but ultimately fell through.