Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: June 10, 2026, 5:42 PM ET

World Cup 2026 Preparation

The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off Thursday amid controversy as FIFA president Gianni Infantino urged restraint regarding U.S. visa denials for officials and staff, specifically defending the organization after Somali referee Omar Artan was barred from entering the United States due to alleged "association with suspected members of terror organisations" according to a U.S. official. Iran forward Mehdi Taremi criticized visa restrictions that have created "tension" within the tournament buildup, while schools in Mexico City suspended classes and government workers were told to operate remotely ahead of the opening match. Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni confirmed Messi's participation in their final friendly against Iceland in Auburn, Alabama, as the 37-year-old works back from muscle fatigue, while Portugal coach Roberto Martinez stated Ronaldo isn't contemplating potential farewell scenarios despite his advancing age.

Player Rankings and Tournament Favorites

ESPN's comprehensive ranking of the 50 best players features Julian Alvarez among the elite talents heading to the expanded 48-team tournament, where EA Sports simulations project Argentina as favorites following their Copa America victory. However, United States coach Mauricio Pochettino insisted his squad can compete despite lacking any players ranked in the top 100 globally, while BBC pundits divided their predictions between traditional powerhouses and potential dark horses. Real Madrid's record-breaking £130m bid was rejected by Atletico Madrid for Alvarez, though Manchester City made a British-record offer for Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson as the transfer market heats up.

Transfer Market Activity

Jadon Sancho will depart Manchester United as a free agent in June, five years after his €85 million transfer, while Barcelona remain unlikely to activate Marcus Rashford's £26m permanent option despite his loan spell. Tottenham completed Marcos Senesi's signing on a free transfer from Bournemouth, and are closing in on Savinho in negotiations with Manchester City for the Brazilian winger. Arsenal emerged as favorites for Julián Álvarez after the Real Madrid approach was rebuffed, though Atlético Madrid maintained their stance on rejecting approaches for their prized striker. Manchester United continue exploring options across midfield and forward positions as they reshape their squad under new management.

Managerial Changes and Club News

Kieran McKenna stepped down as Ipswich manager after securing Premier League promotion, taking a break from football after five seasons in charge, while Real Madrid poised for Mourinho's return after his Benfica departure was confirmed. Mourinho will fly to Madrid to complete the move that reunites him with the club where he won La Liga and Champions League titles over a decade ago. Crystal Palace agreed on Pierre Sage as head coach, and Saint-Etienne appointed Ian Cathro following his success in Portugal with Estoril. Meanwhile, West Ham co-owner David Sullivan faces ongoing scrutiny with Essex Police receiving new information following BBC Panorama investigations.

Women's Football Updates

The United States women's team held on for a contentious 1-0 win over Brazil in an ugly friendly featuring eight red cards, though coach Emma Hayes demanded tougher performances from her squad ahead of World Cup action. England's Lionesses must navigate play-offs for the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil after failing to secure automatic qualification despite winning five of six matches, with Sarina Wiegman criticizing their difficult group. Scotland's Caroline Weir insisted it was team effort after her four goals against Israel secured top spot in their qualifying group, while Wales gave themselves World Cup hope despite the 2027 tournament remaining a more realistic target.

Tournament Predictions and Analysis

Ian Darke's World Cup preview identifies Argentina, France, and Spain as favorites while highlighting potential surprise packages, as 19 ESPN experts made their picks across various categories including golden boot and breakout performers. Chris Sutton predicted opening match scores in BBC analysis, while our final power rankings placed traditional powers at the top amid questions about the expanded format's impact. Thomas Tuchel played down England's favorites tag ahead of his first World Cup campaign in charge, managing expectations despite squad talent levels.

VAR and Rule Changes

The 2026 World Cup introduces unprecedented law changes including VAR protocol adjustments and timewasting regulations, while Real Madrid's potential signing of Arsenal's Riccardo Calafiori adds to their transfer activity. Manchester City and Chelsea remain in talks over Enzo Maresca's potential appointment as manager, adding to the off-field drama surrounding club futures. The tournament's record expansion to 48 teams creates new bracket scenarios and qualification pathways that ESPN analysts broke down.

Player Stories and Inspiration

South Africa goalkeeper Ronwen Williams carries his late brother Marvin's memory as inspiration for captaining his nation against Mexico in the opening match, while 17-year-old Miles Russell qualified for the US Open with Tiger Woods' son serving as caddie. Craig Gordon feared his World Cup chance had passed him by before earning Scotland selection, and BBC Sport profiled 20 potential breakout stars including Norway's Viking-themed photo shoot squad. Former England captain Steve Bruce visited the National Football Museum to discuss previous World Cup memorabilia as historical context builds.

International Tensions and Security

Iranian fans in Los Angeles explain their flag preferences regarding pre-1979 revolution symbols, while the official FIFA fan fest in Mexico City faces relocation risks over planned protests. Michel Platini filed renewed legal action against FIFA's Infantino in France, reopening old wounds from their power struggle. The tournament's security concerns extend beyond visa issues, with questions raised about FIFA's control over their premier event as geopolitical tensions spill onto the pitch.