Football/Soccer 24 Hours

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

International Football Governance and Transfers

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has apologized for errors made concerning his failed plan to sell stakes in the World Cup, with senior staff in attendance at a summit in Morocco reaffirming their support. The world players' union FIFPRO has condemned Infantino's "abuse of presidential power" and called for change at the top of FIFA following his botched World Cup stake sale plans. UEFA's boycott of FIFA tournaments remains in place, and the FA has joined them in opposing Infantino's re-election next year, with the under-fire FIFA president remaining in his position. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated he no longer has confidence in FIFA President Gianni Infantino, adding to the pressure on the soccer leader after his abandoned plan to sell stakes in the World Cup. Potential FIFA presidential challengers to Infantino are reportedly circling in a bid to unseat Gianni Infantino as FIFA president following his disastrous plan to bring private equity into the World Cup. Spain's sports minister Milagros Tolón believes the country "deserves" to host the 2030 World Cup final. The Argentine Football Association has announced July 15 as National Football Teams Day to commemorate Argentina's 2026 World Cup semi-final victory over England. Women Afghanistan's national football team, recognized by FIFA, say the sport has provided them with freedom and independence, despite being banned from playing football in their home country.

Mohamed Salah officially completed his move to Turkish Super Lig side Trabzonspor on a free transfer. Salah's departure from the Premier League leaves Liverpool with questions as the transfer window nears its close. Liverpool have also signed Spanish midfielder Natalia Ramos from CD Tenerife Femenino, pending visa approval and international clearance. Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing USMNT's Antonee Robinson. Arsenal are exploring options to strengthen their forward line after missing out on targets such as Morgan Rogers and Vinicius Junior. Real Madrid spent big to acquire a World Cup star for their already potent attack, which features Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Júnior.

Club Signings and Contract News

Tottenham Hotspur is nearing an agreement with Micky van de Ven on a new five-year contract. Manchester City winger Jeremy Doku has committed his future to the club by signing a new contract that will keep him there until 2031. Leeds United have secured the signing of goalkeeper James Trafford from Manchester City for a club-record fee. Bournemouth has announced the acquisition of right-back Juanlu Sanchez from Sevilla for a deal potentially worth up to £11.1 million. Wrexham has signed midfielder Ben Whiteman from Preston on a three-year contract for an undisclosed fee. Swansea City have signed free agent Ross Stewart on a three-year deal following his departure from Southampton.

Midfield Movements and Player Futures

Rodri has reportedly given Barcelona the go-ahead to begin talks with Manchester City regarding a potential transfer. Barcelona is also preparing to approach Manchester City for midfielder Rodri, aiming to secure his signing ahead of their LaLiga rivals. Midfielder Rodri faces a significant decision this summer regarding a potential move to either Real Madrid or Barcelona, should he choose to leave Manchester City. Newcastle United manager Matthias Jaissle stated that a decision regarding Bruno Guimaraes' future had already been made prior to his arrival as captain. Newcastle United CEO David Hopkinson described new head coach Matthias Jaissle as a "rock star" with unlimited potential.

Domestic Leagues and Team News

MI London secured their first win of the season against capital rivals London Spirit, thanks to Melie Kerr's half-century and Hayley Matthews' decisive bowling. Rangers suffered a 2-1 defeat against Jagiellonia Bialystok in Europa League qualifying, leaving manager Derek McInnes still searching for his first win. Rangers are reportedly linked with PSV winger Yorbe Driouech. The Scottish FA will no longer utilize a key match incident review panel. Ebbsfleet United's first three National League South games of the season have been suspended due to the club's financial difficulties. The Carabao Cup is set to begin for the 2026/27 season, with all first-round ties being broadcast live on Sky Sports.

Pre-Season Friendlies and Player Development

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his disappointment, stating his players were "fuming" after a 3-1 preseason defeat to Real Betis in Dublin, citing defensive errors. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is impressed with the maturity and focus displayed by Northern Ireland international Ceadach O'Neill. Manchester United appointed Eva Olid as their new manager less than a month before the WSL season begins. Defender Gabby George has completed a move to Brighton from Manchester United ahead of the Women's Super League season. Everton has finalized the signing of Denmark international Christian Nørgaard from Arsenal.

Other Football News

Manchester United teenager JJ Gabriel has received a trading card made with real 24-carat gold, shortly after making his unofficial senior debut for the club. The new season of "Ted Lasso" featured a cameo from a real-life NWSL club, which was filmed at their facilities and served as a key plot point. Former heavyweight champion Joseph Parker claimed that a failed drugs test, which led to his boxing suspension, was caused by exposure to cocaine being used by his nutritionist. Bangor striker Ben Arthurs has completed a three-month anti-doping ban and is eligible to play in his club's opening match of the 2026-27 Irish Premiership season. The Paddy Power PDC World Championship dates have been confirmed, with the final scheduled for Sunday, January 3, in Ally Pally's Great Hall.

Boxing and Other Sports

Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua is still anticipated to be announced in August, with the potential for the all-British heavyweight clash to be relocated to America. Jake Paul's rematch with Tommy Fury is considered the most logical option for the American star's return to boxing, according to Most Valuable Promotions partner Nakisa Bidarian. Middleweight boxer Aaron McKenna is aiming to unify titles at 160lbs before potentially moving up to heavyweight. Joe Ward, an amateur boxing sensation, has faced repeated setbacks despite a promising early career.

Rugby Union

Eddie Hearn believes Henry Pollock possesses the star power to revitalize rugby union but insists that players like Pollock and his peers must be compensated appropriately, suggesting the current salary cap is restricting the "future of rugby."

Cricket

England has named a 16-man squad for the opening two Tests against Pakistan, with returning captain Joe Root included and Jacob Bethell set to miss the series due to injury. Ollie Pope and Brydon Carse have been included in the 16-man squad for the upcoming Test series against Pakistan.

Other Sports News

Former AC Milan and Brazil forward Alexandre Pato is part of a consortium poised to acquire a majority stake in League Two club Northampton Town. Scotland striker Ross Stewart has signed a three-year deal with Swansea City. Golfer Rory McIlroy withdrew from the Travelers Championship citing fatigue.

Sad News in Football

Alex Hughes, son of Mark Hughes tragically passed away from sudden adult death syndrome. Ugandan midfielder David Owori was tragically murdered during a street gang attack, reportedly after resisting a robbery attempt.