Football/Soccer 24 Hours

Last updated: August 8, 2026, 12:12 AM ET

FIFA Controversy

The pressure on FIFA president Gianni Infantino intensified after Norway's soccer federation president called on him to resign, stating there is "no trust" left. In response, Mexico and Argentina have expressed their support for the embattled leader, while Conmebol's chief also backed Infantino. Meanwhile, UEFA has confirmed it is aware of an allegation that European football's governing body paid off an alleged mistress of Infantino during his time there. With rivals reportedly circling, a look at potential challengers to Infantino for the FIFA presidency includes several high-profile figures.

Transfer Window – Major Moves & Rumours

The summer window continues to deliver surprises. Liverpool have agreed a surprise loan deal for Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo for the season. Atletico Madrid are in talks with Tottenham over signing their captain Cristian Romero. Newcastle United have told Manchester United that full-back Lewis Hall is not for sale after rejecting an enquiry. Manchester City are reportedly exploring a move for Enzo Fernandez, while Arsenal could battle Manchester United for Pio Esposito. Both Arsenal and Man United are also eyeing Shakhtar Donetsk forward Kauã Elias. In other news, Liverpool have no intention of pursuing Djed Spence. The BBC's Saturday papers suggest Arsenal could hijack Liverpool's move for Bradley Barcola. Meanwhile, Manchester United continue to explore a move for USMNT left-back Antonee Robinson.

Real Madrid's star winger Vinícius Júnior ended speculation by signing a new six-year contract. The club also sent Franco Mastantuono on a season-long loan to Fiorentina. Why Real Madrid spent big to sign World Cup star Yan Diomande is detailed in an analysis of how he'll fit into their attack.

Coventry City have completed a club-record signing of Ghana midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi. Crystal Palace have signed Japan defender Takehiro Tomiyasu after a pre-season trial. Hull City have signed Norwegian midfielder Jens Hjerto-Dahl on a five-year contract. Notts County have signed Northampton Town midfielder Dean Campbell. San Jose has hired former Portland executive Gavin Wilkinson as a consultant.

USMNT & USWNT Updates

USMNT transfer grades are in, with Arfsten earning a B+ for his move to Middlesbrough. Hirving "Chucky" Lozano has joined the LA Galaxy on an initial loan from San Diego FC. Emma Hayes, USWNT coach, said she is "delighted" that Mauricio Pochettino signed a new deal, believing it can help raise the level in the U.S. She also expressed being "worried" about USWNT youth development and urged priority on the U-20 World Cup.

Carabao Cup & EFL

The Carabao Cup first round saw several matches. Will Lankshear's debut goal gave Middlesbrough a 1-0 win over Wrexham, with Berhalter helping Boro oust the Welsh side. The same story is covered with details of Wolves and Stevenage also progressing. A live blog captured Boro and Wrexham trading blows, with Wolves three up on Port Vale. The EFL Cup second-round draw takes place on Monday, with 11 Premier League teams entering. An explanation of why the EFL Cup is being played on a weekend is provided. David Sullivan is expected to attend West Ham's EFL Cup tie despite advice not to.

Premier League & Club News

Newcastle's sporting director revealed that Bruno Guimaraes was emotional about wanting an Arsenal move. Conor Gallagher is ready to show what he can do under De Zerbi at Spurs. Chelsea face a squad reduction: who could leave the 41-man squad is analysed. Myles Lewis-Skelly's push to start in midfield for Arsenal highlights his preference. The question of why the Premier League struggles to attract the world's best players at their peak is explored, with Vinicius Jr choosing to stay at Real Madrid.

Women's Football

Mariona Caldentey embraces the pressure as Arsenal target a Treble. Key dates for the women's football season have been detailed. France says they are still planning to compete in the U20 Women's World Cup despite a UEFA boycott threat. Sian Massey-Ellis has retired from officiating to take up a new role with the FA.

Scottish Football

Leeds Rhinos pulled off a comeback 24-22 win over Wakefield in Super League, with Chris Hankinson's try proving crucial. Celtic and Rangers have submitted offers for wingers as Anderlecht hold talks for Will Ferry. A "critically important" summit on Scottish football's future has been called by the SFA. The Scottish Premiership preview notes that stuttering starts and goals in every match marked the return. Euro navel gazing and early troubles for Scottish title hopefuls are discussed. A podcast featuring European reaction and big predictions is available. The Scottish summer malaise continues, but there is some room for optimism. Ben Stanway's new contract boosts Partick Thistle's promotion bid. Martin O'Neill is out of hospital and in good form after a procedure.

Transfers & Contract News – Global

Mohamed Salah's move to Trabzonspor and his amazing transfer unveiling are covered. Why Salah left Liverpool for Türkiye's fourth-most popular club is explained. Liverpool are ready to put their faith in £60m central defender Jeremy Jacquet. England striker Ivan Toney has been charged with assault causing actual bodily harm. Southampton head coach Tonda Eckert says the image of Spygate is far from the truth. Barcelona cancelled a pre-season friendly in Morocco due to the Ceuta border crisis.

Other Sports & Events

Charley Hull surged up the leaderboard with a course-record 62 at the PIF London Championship. Undrafted quarterback Haynes King led the Panthers to a 33-30 comeback win over the Cardinals in the Hall of Fame game. Dana White revealed the venue for the Fury-Joshua fight: where the money is. Cherneka Johnson bids to dethrone bantamweight queen Dina Thorslund. The Hundred: Sun Risers Leeds eliminated Birmingham Phoenix, with Phoebe Litchfield hitting the fastest fifty in women's competition. The men's side also knocked out Birmingham Phoenix. The Hundred permutations: who needs what to qualify is explained.

England opener Emilio Gay suffered an injury scare, retiring hurt with a shoulder injury. Jack Draper will play the Cincinnati Open despite arm injury fears. Raymond van Barneveld has been fined and suspended for inappropriate behaviour. Sam Hickey is described as Britain's best prospect and a real showman. The Shergar Cup Sprint tips are in from experts, and Hollie Doyle previews the international contest. "Tenbob Tommy" chases a hat-trick at Brighton.

The FA has banned solid perimeter walls around pitches after a safety review following the death of Billy Vigar. A secret invite and other pinch-me moments before Leicester's 2016 title are remembered. Manchester United teen JJ Gabriel was handed a 24-carat gold trading card. Meet the man with a museum of footballs. 39 moves across five countries: the story of football's ultimate journeyman Zeph Thomas, who now prepares for his FA Cup debut as a manager. The National League returns, and can it live up to last season's drama? Bayern Munich held off a late Villa fightback to win 2-1 in Hong Kong. New Zealand began their South Africa tour with a 38-21 win over the Stormers. Argentina will not pressure Lionel Messi over the 2028 Copa América.

Burnout & World Cup Fallout

An analysis of which elite clubs, from Arsenal to Liverpool, are struggling with World Cup burnout highlights the toll on players. The Premier League's inability to attract global superstars at their peak is linked to the same issue.