Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: August 6, 2026, 5:31 AM ET

FIFA and Governance Under Scrutiny

FIFA President Infantino has apologized for errors made in his abandoned plan to sell stakes in the World Cup, with senior staff reaffirming their support at a summit in Morocco. However, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney no longer has confidence in Infantino, citing a "fatal" call regarding the World Cup. The association of European soccer leagues has called for governance reform within FIFA, adding to the pressure on Infantino following his failed private equity plan for the World Cup. Portugal great Figo has also joined calls for Infantino to step down over the controversial proposal. Infantino is set to face senior leaders of football's world governing body, with key questions surrounding his leadership. Rivals are reportedly considering a bid to unseat Infantino as FIFA president due to his World Cup private equity plan.

Club Transfers and Signings

Manchester United appointed Eva Olid as their new manager less than a month before the Women's Super League season begins. Olid, who managed Hearts, has signed a two-year deal with an option for a further 12 months, but lacks WSL experience. Liverpool have been offered a solution to their defensive depth issues, while Manchester United are reportedly interested in U.S. national team player Antonee Robinson. Mohamed Salah made a surprising move from Liverpool to Turkish side Trabzonspor as the transfer window nears its close. Trabzonspor received an "A" grade for their acquisition of Salah in the summer transfer window. Liverpool are also reportedly exploring a deal for Paris Saint-Germain winger Ibrahim Mbaye. Tottenham are interested in signing Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo, with manager Roberto de Zerbi hoping to improve the squad through transfers. eyeing U.S. national team star Folarin Balogun, as well as Victor Osimhen and Nicolas Jackson. Wrexham have signed Preston captain Ben Whiteman on a three-year contract for an undisclosed fee. Everton have completed the signing of Denmark international Christian Nørgaard from Arsenal. are set to sign Takehiro Tomiyasu on a free transfer and are considering a move for Solly March. Hull City signed Greece goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis from Olympiacos for a club-record fee on a five-year deal. Lincoln City midfielder Jack Moylan has joined Championship rivals Cardiff City for an undisclosed fee on a four-year contract. Monga's £10 million move from Leicester to Manchester City is expected to be significant, with the teenager aiming to emulate Eden Hazard. Franco Mastantuono reportedly set to join Fiorentina from Real Madrid on a season-long loan.

Preseason Friendlies and Team News

Arsenal players were "fuming" after a 3-1 preseason defeat to Real Betis in Dublin, with manager Mikel Arteta highlighting defensive errors. 1-0 loss to Juventus in a lacklustre friendly in Hong Kong, with Edon Zhegrova scoring the decisive goal. Liverpool's preseason to the U.S. revealed concerns about injuries and squad depth for coach Iraola and his staff. Enzo Maresca secured his first win as Manchester City manager, a 3-1 victory over the K-League All Stars in Seoul. Celtic manager O'Neill is in the hospital after undergoing a "small procedure."

Player News and International Football

Former England Kyle Walker has stated he is "at ease" with his decision to retire from international football, hoping for an extended club career similar to James Milner's. Midfielder Erica Parkinson, has been named in England's preparation squad for the Under-20 Women's World Cup in Poland. Uganda midfielder Owori, was tragically murdered in a street gang attack, reportedly after resisting a robbery attempt. The women's team from Afghanistan, banned from playing football at home, have reunited 8,000 miles away, with football providing them freedom and independence. Santos star Neymar has been accused of provocation by the president of Brazilian club Remo following a Brazilian Cup game. Argentina fly-half Albornoz has been suspended for four matches after a misconduct charge following Argentina's Nations Championship defeat against England.

Other Sporting Events

The Trent Rockets extended their lead at the top of The Hundred table with a fifth win in six games, leaving Birmingham Phoenix at the bottom. In The Hundred women's competition, Trent Rockets secured a fourth consecutive win against Birmingham Phoenix, nearly assuring them a spot in the tournament's later stages. Warrington Wolves and Wigan Warriors are scheduled to play the first-ever Super League fixture in Ireland in Dublin in April 2027. Joseph Parker is set to return to boxing this year after a ban for a failed drug test was lifted, according to his manager. Boxer Raven underwent emergency surgery for a brain bleed after collapsing during a sparring session in Denmark. Joe Ward, an amateur boxing sensation with a promising future, has faced repeated setbacks. British No. 2 Cameron Norrie won his match at the National Bank Open in Montreal, setting up a third-round encounter with Alex De Minaur. Pakistan ended an eight-match away Test losing streak with an eight-wicket victory over the West Indies. The bulk of the EFL Cup's first round fixtures will be played on a weekend, deviating from the competition's traditional midweek schedule.