Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 29, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

FIFA's Controversial Investment Plan Sparks Outrage

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has offered a $40 million (£30. incentive to football associations to back his plan of selling stakes in major FIFA competitions to private investors, setting a September 19 deadline for their decision revealed in a letter. This proposal has ignited a major row, with UEFA's 55 member associations set to hold an emergency meeting to discuss the plans, including a potential World Cup boycott. UEFA is reportedly weighing a World Cup boycott to oppose FIFA's proposal to raise $20 billion from equity sales. Infantino himself has slammed critics of the World Cup, accusing them of being "consumed by hate" and urging them to "reflect, meditate, pray, or watch a film" Infantino claims. The IFAB has clarified its guidance, stating that VAR should only be used to change "blatantly incorrect" decisions and clear missed incidents, following controversy over a red card shown to Switzerland's Breel Embolo in the World Cup quarterfinals against Argentina.

European Football Faces Transfer Frenzy and Club Shake-ups

Real Madrid is reportedly eyeing Manchester City midfielder Rodri, prompting concerns about how the Premier League club would cope without him. Meanwhile, Real Madrid expects to complete a $154 million deal to sign Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig in the coming hours. Liverpool is set to open talks with PSG over a potential deal for winger Bradley Barcola, with the player having already agreed personal terms with the Anfield club. Newcastle United has confirmed the signing of Republic of Ireland forward Leanne Kiernan from Liverpool for an undisclosed fee. Chelsea is reportedly close to signing Brighton striker Danny Welbeck after he was given permission to undergo a medical.

Managerial Movements and Club Operations in Focus

Zinedine Zidane has been appointed as the new head coach of France, marking his return to management after a five-year absence. Roberto Mancini is set to return as Italy's manager for a second spell, following Paolo Maldini's resignation as technical director. La Liga side Rayo Vallecano has been barred from playing at their home stadium weeks before the new season due to the risk of supporters contracting Legionnaires' disease. Barcelona president Joan Laporta is recovering from a heart problem after being admitted to hospital. In Scotland, Derek McInnes is set to be in the dugout for his first match as Rangers manager despite an SFA ban.