Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 31, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

FIFA Faces Backlash Over World Cup Commercial Plans

FIFA is defending its proposal to sell stakes in the World Cup commercial entity, stating that "nobody is selling football" and that the consultation process will continue despite threats of boycotts from UEFA. Football's governing body has insisted it is not selling off the sport, even as criticism mounts over its plan to consult on selling stakes in the World Cup to private investors. The organization could potentially receive its first private World Cup funding by October, though UEFA plans to hold a meeting of its 55 member associations to discuss the matter. FIFA has also opened disciplinary proceedings against Argentina for potential breaches of multiple laws during the World Cup, including the display of a Falklands banner and behavior during the final.

Transfer Market Buzzes with Activity

Real Madrid has made significant moves, agreeing to a deal with Fulham for forward Gonzalo García and potentially another for midfielder César Palacios. They have also signed forward Carlos Espí from Levante on a five-year contract. Meanwhile, Manchester City is reportedly eyeing Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille as a potential replacement for Rodri. Arsenal is reportedly confident in signing Bruno Guimarães from Newcastle United following Eddie Howe's departure. Tottenham Hotspur is also rumored to be in the market for a "bomba" transfer, according to head coach Roberto De Zerbi.

Club Signings and Player Movements

Inter Milan has secured the services of England defender John Stones on a free transfer, signing a two-year contract. Chelsea has completed the signing of Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace for £51 million. Rangers have also been active, signing South Africa defender Olwethu Makhanya from Philadelphia Union for approximately £3 million Rangers move a 'dream come true' for South Africa's Makhanya. Wolverhampton Wanderers. Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Tolu Arokodare has joined Ajax on a season-long loan with an option to buy.

Managerial Changes and Club Briefs

Former striker Diego Forlán has been appointed interim head coach of Uruguay's national team until March 2027. In other news, Newcastle United's manager Eddie Howe has questioned if it was time for a change, suggesting the team needed new energy after their final-day defeat to Fulham. St Mirren manager Craig McLeish has been charged by the Scottish FA for comments made about a referee. Barcelona will be training at St George's Park and will face Championship sides Birmingham City and Preston.

MLS and International Soccer Updates

Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas has criticized the MLS Discovery List rule following the Casemiro signing dispute, advocating for its abolition for over two years. Casemiro has labeled Lionel Messi the "god of football" and stated his intention to help the Argentine forward win more trophies with Inter Miami. The MLS All-Stars defeated LIGA MX All-Stars 4-3 in the MLS All-Star Game, with Son Heung-min scoring two goals in three minutes to lead the charge.

Player News and Injury Concerns

Jurrien Timber has left Arsenal's training camp for a groin check, a move related to the injury that caused him to miss the end of last season. Liverpool midfielder Harvey Elliott remains unsure about his long-term future at Anfield following a challenging loan spell at Aston Villa. Joe Gomez is expected to miss the start of Liverpool's Premier League campaign due to injury, though it is not anticipated to affect the club's transfer plans.

Other Football Notes

The Women's Super League fixtures for the 2026/27 season have been announced, with Manchester City beginning their title defense against newly-promoted Birmingham City. Tottenham Hotspur has shown significant ambition in the Women's Super League through their summer transfer business. New FA rules will impose at least 10-game bans for players found guilty of discrimination.