Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 14, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

World Cup Semifinals Set, Transfers Heat Up

The final four of the 2026 World Cup are set, featuring the top four ranked teams in FIFA's standings: Argentina, Spain, France, and England. The semifinal matchups promise to be compelling, with France facing Spain and England taking on Argentina. England captain Harry Kane emphasized the need for his team to focus on the present match rather than historical context when facing Argentina. There will be increased security for the England vs. Argentina match in Atlanta due to the historical significance of the fixture. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has reportedly been complained about to the IOC over his dealings with Donald Trump, alleging a breach of political neutrality rules. Meanwhile, FIFA and FIFPRO are in talks to establish protocols for playing in excessive heat.

In transfer news, Leeds United have agreed to a £34.1 million fee for defender Tarik Muharemovic from Sassuolo. Manchester United are active in the transfer market, adapting their summer plans and expecting more signings, with Andrey Santos completing a £50 million move from Chelsea. The club is also still seeking another midfielder, with Youri Tielemans reportedly having a medical. Chelsea have agreed to a deal worth approximately £850,000 for Manchester United striker Melvine Malard. Bournemouth have signed striker Alvaro Rodriguez from Elche for up to £25.7 million. Aston Villa are assessing a move for Pervis Estupinan, and the club has agreed to a £10 million release clause for defender Lucas Digne to return to Paris Saint-Germain. Arsenal are reportedly interested in Atlético Madrid's Julián Álvarez, with Barcelona's offer for the player set to expire. Brighton have completed a club-record deal for Spurs' Luka Vuskovic.

Player Spotlights and Tactical Outlooks

Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister believes his Premier League experience with Liverpool could be beneficial against England. Coach Lionel Scaloni has been credited with unlocking Lionel Messi's scoring potential, with Messi's World Cup goal tally rising significantly. The evolution of Lionel Messi has been a key factor in Argentina's World Cup journey, with analysis highlighting his adjusted playstyle. Despite discussions about tactical approaches, England captain Harry Kane dismissed notions of division within the squad, stating they are "completely together" ahead of their semifinal clash with Argentina. Manager Thomas Tuchel's tactical setup is seen as crucial for England's chances against Argentina. Jude Bellingham's performances have been highlighted, with his "battle of wills" with Tuchel seen as healthy for the team.

Folarin Balogun has signed with LeBron James' agency, Klutch Sports, following his breakout World Cup performance. Erling Haaland and his Norway teammates received a hero's welcome upon their return home following their World Cup campaign, though his father felt Norway was "robbed" in their quarterfinal loss. The USMNT's World Cup struggles are being debated, with questions about whether youth development overhauls are the sole solution. The New England Revolution has extended the loan of USMNT goalkeeper Matt Turner from Lyon through the end of 2026.

Club News and Player Movements

New Napoli coach Massimiliano Allegri is reportedly still troubled by the end of his tenure at AC Milan. Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has confirmed Reece James will remain captain and expressed his desire for Enzo Fernandez to stay at the club. Alonso's arrival at Chelsea instead of Liverpool was attributed to "timings". Celtic captain Callum McGregor is keen to build with the team despite speculation about his future, though manager Martin O'Neill anticipates potential departures of Daizen Maeda and Arne Engels. Aston Villa has been warned about sportswashing in relation to their £20 million-a-year sponsorship deal with Visit Rwanda.

In the Women's Super League, London City Lionesses are set to sign Kadidiatou Diani and have also secured Spain defender Mapi Leon on a three-year deal. Everton has signed France forward Noemie Mouchon on a free transfer from Leicester City and are in advanced discussions for a permanent deal for defender Hannah Blundell. Liverpool has signed England goalkeeper Khiara Keating on a free transfer from Manchester City. Republic of Ireland international Emily Murphy is close to joining Brighton. Aberdeen has purchased winger Lewis Smith from Livingston.

Other Football News and Notes

The match ball has been changed for the World Cup semifinals, a decision that has raised questions after 100 games of the tournament. FIFA and global players' union FIFPRO are discussing protocols for games played in excessive heat. The format for deciding cup games that end in a tie is being questioned, with an alternative solution proposed. The death of South African World Cup player Jayden Adams is being investigated by police. A large quantity of fake Scotland and England football strips, estimated at 58,000, was seized in Edinburgh. Dutch football referee Rob Dieperink has died at the age of, weeks after being removed from World Cup officiating due to a police investigation.