Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 10, 2026, 11:32 AM ET

World Cup Quarterfinals Approach as England Faces Norway

England's World Cup quarterfinal clash against Norway is set to be a tactical battle, with England needing to impose themselves beyond just stopping Erling Haaland. Marc Guéhi is a serious doubt for England's match against Norway due to a hamstring strain, adding to defensive concerns for the Three Lions. Despite a strong performance against Mexico, England faces a patched-up back-line heading into the Norway fixture defensive defiance. Norway's shirts have sold out due to the team's performance, reflecting high demand ahead of the England match. Norway striker Erling Haaland believes his side's chances of winning the World Cup remain "really low" and that the pressure is on England. Meanwhile, Jude Bellingham and Martin Ødegaard, despite being questioned recently, are both finding top form. France has cruised into the semifinals, with Kylian Mbappé leading the charge and downplaying any ankle concerns after France's win over Morocco. France's victory over Morocco, 2-0, has put them in strong contention to win the competition, with many viewing them as favorites. Argentina has also qualified for the quarterfinals after a 3-2 victory over Egypt, with Lautaro Martinez encouraging Lionel Messi to savor the moment in what may be his last World Cup. FIFA chief refereeing officer Pierluigi Collina stated that World Cup referees' integrity cannot be questioned.

Club Business and Managerial Changes

Arsenal has bolstered its squad by signing Spanish defender Ona Batlle on a free transfer following her departure from Barcelona. Portugal has appointed Jorge Jesus as their new national team head coach on a four-year contract through the 2030 World Cup. Liverpool is facing significant behind-the-scenes changes with the departure of Michael Edwards, the chief executive officer of football for owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG). Barcelona has reportedly made an offer for Borussia Dortmund's Karim Adeyemi as they look to strengthen their attack. Manchester United is interested in Nottingham Forest's Neco Williams, though they may face competition for his signature. Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni has agreed to a new contract that will keep him at the club until 2031. Jürgen Klopp revealed the extent of Liverpool's efforts to sign Kylian Mbappé in 2017, including talks on a private jet. In other managerial news, Rafael Márquez has taken over as the head coach of the Mexican national team, tasked with leading them to the 2030 World Cup.

Player Moves and Transfer Speculation

Manchester City is trialing an initiative to offer local residents Premier League matchday tickets for £10 next season. Newcastle has signed Ajax teenager Sean Steur for £23 million. Brentford has signed former England striker Callum Wilson on a 12-month contract after his exit from West Ham. Crystal Palace has secured the signing of Spanish defender Oscar Mingueza on a free transfer, pending international clearance. Rangers are reportedly pursuing midfielder Fosso, with Hearts in contract talks with a key player. Fenerbahce appears confident in securing a deal for Mason Greenwood from Marseille. Tottenham has made an offer for Randal Kolo Muani, though Juventus remains the favorite to sign the forward. Arsenal is reportedly close to finalizing a deal for Christos Tzolis finalise a deal. Liverpool has made contact regarding a move for Mexico's young talent Gilberto Mora. The LA Galaxy has transferred attacker Gabriel Pec to Cruzeiro for a club-record fee.

Other Football News and Notes

An incident at England's media centre in Kansas City, where a man entered carrying a wrench, is being reviewed by the Football Association. England has introduced new behavioral guidelines for its players. An inquest into the death of former Sheffield United player Maddy Cusack has been adjourned again. An inquest is also scheduled for the death of Nobby Stiles following a coroner's finding of injuries consistent with repeated head trauma. The United States men's national team earned $16 million in prize money from FIFA for reaching the round of 16 at the World Cup, where they lost 4-1 to Belgium. The U.S. game against Belgium also set a record as the most-watched soccer telecast in U.S. history loss sets. Scotland's courts will gain enhanced powers to issue football banning orders to improve match safety. Oxford United is currently under a temporary transfer embargo imposed by the English Football League.