Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 29, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

USMNT Coaching Carousel Continues

The United States Soccer Federation is reportedly nearing a decision on Mauricio Pochettino's future as head coach of the U.S. men's national team, with federation president Cindy Parlow Cone indicating conversations are ongoing. This comes amidst continued speculation and questions surrounding Pochettino's tenure. Elsewhere, former USMNT midfielder Sebastian Berhalter has joined English Championship side Middlesbrough.

International Coaching Moves and Rumors

Roberto Mancini has been reappointed as the head coach of the Italian national team, issuing an apology for his previous departure. Carlo Ancelotti, however, confirmed he turned down an approach to manage Italy, stating his commitment remains with leading Brazil. Zinedine Zidane has also been appointed as the new coach of France.

Club Transfers and Kit Launches

Wrexham has completed the signing of wing-back Danny Imray from Crystal Palace. Jordan Henderson has left Brentford and is reportedly set for a move to Chelsea. Arsenal has unveiled its new away kit, drawing inspiration from its 1990s "Bruised Banana" design, while Liverpool has also revealed its 2026-27 away jersey with a retro theme. Chelsea is also reportedly close to signing Italy attacking midfielder Giulia Dragoni from Barcelona.

Player Movements and Transfer Speculation

Wolves striker Tolu Arokodare has joined Ajax on a season-long loan with an option to buy. Forward Danny Welbeck is undergoing a medical at Chelsea, with the club reportedly set to pay their first fee for an over-26 player since 2022. Newcastle United has signed Scotland forward Martha Thomas for an undisclosed fee. Rangers are reportedly close to a deal for winger Oliver Antman.

Club Preparations and Player News

Lionel Messi has returned to Inter Miami following Argentina's World Cup final loss. Jurrien Timber has traveled back to London from Arsenal's training camp due to a groin injury. Manchester United's preseason tour is underway, with several pressing issues to address. Barcelona president Joan Laporta is recovering from a heart problem.

League and Competition Updates

Major League Soccer is preparing for a new era following the success of the World Cup in the United States, including a transition to a summer-to-spring calendar. FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against Argentina for potential breaches of laws during the World Cup. English football will trial the eradication of the goalkeeper tactical timeout this season.

Other Football News

Erling Haaland has been enjoying his summer break. The MLS All-Stars restored a two-goal lead in their match. FIFA plans to sell stakes in its football competitions. Rayo Vallecano is barred from playing at its home stadium due to Legionnaires' disease risk.

Transfer Rumors and Gossip

Real Madrid is confident that Vinícius Júnior will remain at the club despite interest from Arsenal. Manchester City is bracing for a bid from Real Madrid for Rodri. Juventus has registered interest in Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee.

Darting Dominance and Championship Titles

Teenage dart sensation Luke Littler has continued to impress, winning the World Matchplay Darts on Sunday. Sebastian Bialecki secured his second PDC ranking title at Players Championship 26. Henry Coates won his maiden PDC title at Players Championship 25.

Commonwealth Games and Cricket

England dominated Tonga in a must-win Pool A game at the Commonwealth Games. In The Hundred, Trent Rockets handed Welsh Fire their first defeat of the season, with Ollie Pope scoring the winning runs for MI London to edge Southern Brave. A North Yorkshire cricket team is being investigated for alleged cheating involving "finger-clicking".

Boxing and Other Sports News

Former boxing world champion Joe Cordina has pleaded not guilty to assault charges. Mikaela Mayer has promised fireworks in her world super welterweight title unification bout against Chantelle Cameron. Lewis Hamilton has received an unusually high number of penalties in recent Formula 1 race weekends. Ronnie O'Sullivan has set a deadline to win a record eighth World Snooker Championship.

Golf and Horse Racing

Nelly Korda believes a Charley Hull victory at the AIG Women’s Open would be "great for golf" but is also aiming for her own major success. Lydia Ko wants to "channel her inner Foxy" in pursuit of more major glory. Bow Echo secured victory in the Visit Qatar Sussex Stakes. Scandinavia defended its Al Shaqab Goodwood Cup title.

Tennis and Other Individual Sports

Jack Draper has been given a wild card for the National Bank Open in Montreal, but has since withdrawn from the DC Open with an arm injury. Katie Boulter suffered a defeat at the DC Open. Ekaterina Alexandrova collapsed on court during a WTA Tour match.

Club News and Player Updates

Bournemouth winger Dango Outt is expected to be out for up to three months with an injury. Southampton director of women's football Marieanne Spacey-Cale will step down this year. England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton has signed a new two-year deal with Chelsea.

Scottish Football

Lawrence Shankland described being named the new captain of Rangers as a "huge honour". Aberdeen manager Stephen Robinson is taking inspiration from Hearts' title push. St Johnstone players are being told to be "solid and streetwise" for their return to the Scottish Premiership. Celtic captain Callum McGregor wants to win the league "in more style" this term.

European Football Transfers

Burnley winger Luca Koleosho has signed for Ligue 1 club Paris FC. Nottingham Forest is reportedly close to a deal for Sporting Lisbon defender Ousmane Diomande close in on defender. Liverpool is set to open talks with PSG over a potential deal for Bradley Barcola. John Stones has verbally agreed to join Inter Milan on a free transfer.

Football Governance and Issues

Fifa has set a deadline of September 19 for member associations to access cash, with the FA voicing disapproval of the world governing body's funding plan. Kick It Out received a record 1,744 reports of discrimination during the 2025/26 season. IFAB clarified guidance, confirming Switzerland forward Breel Embolo should not have been sent off in a World Cup quarterfinal. Referee chiefs state VAR should only be used for "blatantly incorrect" decisions.

Club Friendlies and Pre-Season Tours

Tottenham beat Sydney FC on penalties after a 1-1 draw, with Mathys Tel scoring a stunning free-kick. Xabi Alonso named a youthful side for his first match as Chelsea manager against Western Sydney. Barcelona will be training at St George's Park and playing Championship sides Birmingham City and Preston. Jack Grealish will not join Manchester City's pre-season tour of Asia as he recovers from a foot injury.

Youth and Women's Football

London City Lionesses have signed Spanish youth international Daniela Arques from Sporting, subject to international clearance. Cape Verde should not be underestimated on their Women's Africa Cup of Nations debut. Chloe Kelly found the 2025-26 season difficult but is optimistic about her and Arsenal's prospects.

Miscellaneous Sports News

Brazil's sports court suspended Víctor Gabriel until Cruzeiro forward Gabriel Pec returns to training after an injury from the defender's foul. The 2026 Formula 1 season will end in Europe if the final two races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi need to be relocated due to conflict.