Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: May 19, 2026, 2:38 PM ET

World Cup Squad Announcements

Scotland named their 26-man World Cup squad headlined by 43-year-old goalkeeper Craig Gordon, who missed most of Hearts' season but earned selection after Steve Clarke stated he "deserves" his place. The squad also includes teenage winger Findlay Curtis, who will be Scotland's youngest player at the tournament after an impressive burst of form on loan at Kilmarnock from Rangers. Meanwhile, Brazil announced Carlo Ancelotti's final 26-man squad with Neymar taking center stage in his return to the national team alongside Vinícius Júnior and Raphinha. Cristiano Ronaldo secured a record sixth World Cup appearance after being included in Portugal's squad for this summer's tournament, though Spain midfielder Fermín López is doubtful for the tournament after fracturing a metatarsal in his right foot in Barcelona's win over Real Betis.

Manager Changes at Elite Clubs

Manchester City are set to replace Pep Guardiola with Enzo Maresca before next season, with sources indicating the manager will leave after their final Premier League game. Guardiola's potential departure has prompted reflection on his legacy, with Wayne Rooney stating he is "the Sir Alex Ferguson of his generation" and suggesting "no way Man City are this successful without Guardiola". At Real Madrid, José Mourinho is set to return as coach after agreeing to a two-year contract, with the club planning to announce his return next Sunday or Monday when the LaLiga season ends. Meanwhile, Real Madrid captain Dani Carvajal will leave the club after 23 years at Santiago Bernabeu.

European Finals & Competition News

Aston Villa prepare for their first European final in 44 years on Wednesday when they face Freiburg in the Europa League final in Istanbul. Head coach Unai Emery insists he is not the "king" of the competition despite bidding to win it for a fifth time. TNT Sports decided against providing free-to-air coverage for the finals of the Champions League, Europa League or Conference League. In the Premier League, Arsenal are within touching distance of the title despite barely beating Burnley, with Gary Neville stating he "doesn't see how Arsenal waste this opportunity" to win their first Premier League title in 22 years. The race for European qualification remains chaotic, with nine teams competing for four spots.

Southampton Expelled from Play-offs

Southampton have been thrown out of the Championship play-offs after admitting they spied on three clubs during the season. The club received the same punishment from Sky Sports, confirming their expulsion from the end-of-season competition. The "spygate" scandal has significant implications for Ross Stewart, who was named in