Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 10, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

World Cup Quarterfinals Set for Intense Showdowns

France are looking like formidable contenders to lift the World Cup, with Kylian Mbappé leading the charge as perhaps the best player in the world right now. The French squad has created another special team, mirroring their successes in 1998 and 2018, and their performance against Morocco solidified their status as favorites for the 2026 competition. Mbappé himself has allayed concerns over an ankle knock sustained during the Morocco match, stating he is "all good". Meanwhile, England's path to the semifinals is eyed by Norway's boss, who considers them favorites. However, England faces a defensive challenge, with Marc Guéhi being a serious doubt for their quarter-final clash against Norway due to a hamstring strain picked up against Mexico. Norway striker Erling Haaland believes his side's chances of winning the World Cup remain "really low," placing the pressure squarely on England's shoulders ahead of their quarter-final tie in Miami. Jude Bellingham and Martin Ødegaard, though appearing different, have both faced recent criticism and are now in top form, with England's collective strength highlighted by coach Thomas Tuchel.

Club Transfers and Signings Dominate Headlines

Arsenal has secured the signing of Ona Batlle, who will join the club upon the expiry of her Barcelona contract this summer. Barcelona is also reportedly close to agreeing a deal for Borussia Dortmund's Karim Adeyemi, with sources confirming a breakthrough in negotiations. In other transfer news, Manchester United's pursuit of Atalanta midfielder Ederson for a reported £35 million is reportedly in doubt. Mason Greenwood, currently under contract with Marseille until 2029, is considering offers from Fenerbahce and Atlético Madrid, according to sources. Meanwhile, Liverpool's former manager Jürgen Klopp revealed the extent of the club's efforts to sign Kylian Mbappé in 2017, including talks on a private jet, describing it as the "most expensive non-transfer" the club was involved in. Burnley has appointed Nicky Hayen as their new head coach on a three-year deal.

Player News and Transfer Rumors Circulate

Mohamed Salah's significant financial demands are reportedly causing Saudi clubs to hesitate on a potential transfer. Tottenham has made an offer for Randal Kolo Muani, though Juventus is believed to be the frontrunner to sign the forward. Manchester United is reportedly interested in Nottingham Forest's Neco Williams, but they might face competition for his signature. Crystal Palace has signed Spanish defender Oscar Mingueza on a free transfer, pending international clearance. Brentford has signed former England striker Callum Wilson on a 12-month contract following his departure from West Ham. Aberdeen has sold Topi Keskinen to Odense for an undisclosed fee, described as a "very good offer" by manager Stephen Robinson. Newcastle has agreed a deal to sign teenage starlet Jeremy Monga from Leicester City, potentially beating Arsenal to his signature.

Other Football News and Developments

A new species of sea slug has been named after Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha in recognition of his World Cup performance against Spain. The Football Association will investigate an incident at England's Kansas City media centre after a man entered the facility carrying a wrench. An inquest into the death of former Sheffield United player Maddy Cusack has been adjourned again until December 7. Borussia Dortmund's American forward Cole Campbell is joining Bundesliga newcomer Elversberg. Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni has agreed to a new contract that will keep him at the club until 2031, according to sources. Denmark star Christian Eriksen will begin an individual rehabilitation program in his home country following another on-field collapse last month. Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn has signed for the San Jose Earthquakes after his release from Nottingham Forest.