Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: July 31, 2026, 11:47 AM ET

FIFA Faces Backlash Over World Cup Expansion and Investment Plans

FIFA has defended its plan to potentially sell stakes in the World Cup, stating that "nobody is selling football" and that the consultation process will continue stated Friday. Despite backlash, FIFA is with plans for a 64-team Men's World Cup, aiming for a decision by August 14 consultation process. Former England defender Anita Asante believes these plans will make women's football "the first casualties" make casualties. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has called FIFA president Gianni Infantino "the wrong man" to lead the organization as criticism mounts over the investment plan described Infantino. Senior FIFA adviser Carlos Cordeiro has resigned in protest of the private equity investment plan. UEFA has threatened to boycott FIFA tournaments if the World Cup stake sale proceeds will boycott. FIFA could potentially receive its first funds from Infantino's plan by October bank cash.

Club News and Transfer Rumors Abound

Arsenal is reportedly confident in signing Bruno Guimarães from Newcastle United following the departure of manager Eddie Howe. Celtic has rejected a bid from West Ham for Arne Engels and confirmed interest in Alistair Johnston reject bid. Bournemouth has agreed to a deal worth nearly £26 million for Benfica defender Antonio Silva. Tottenham is looking to complete "another bomba" transfer, according to head coach Roberto De Zerbi complete transfer. Real Madrid is confident that Vinícius Júnior will remain at the club despite Arsenal's interest will not depart. Manchester City is reportedly eyeing Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille as a potential replacement for Rodri looking to sign. John Stones has joined Inter Milan on a free transfer, signing a two-year contract joins champions.

Player Movements and Managerial Changes

Lionel Messi returned to Inter Miami after Argentina's World Cup final loss, and coach Guillermo Hoyos will discuss his return to action. Casemiro has stated his desire to help Lionel Messi win more trophies, calling him the "god of football" labeled Messi. Arne Slot is reportedly aiming for a return to club management in Europe's major leagues rather than taking a role in Saudi Arabia aiming to return. Franco Baresi, the legendary former AC Milan and Italy defender, has died at the age of 66 has died. Zinedine Zidane has been appointed as the new coach of France been appointed. Diego Forlán has been named interim head coach of Uruguay's national team until March 2027 been appointed.

Domestic League Updates and Financial Matters

Chelsea has been fined £10 million ($13m) and handed a suspended two-window transfer ban by the Football Association for admitting 74 breaches of its agent regulations been fined. The new Premier League season is approaching, with clubs like Manchester United focusing on affordability while Chelsea, Manchester City, and Spurs have spent significantly spent big. The EFL season has begun for four teams in the preliminary round of the Carabao Cup. Premier League clubs have agreed to a funding proposal that will be presented to the EFL agreed proposal. Kick It Out received a record 1,744 reports of discrimination during the 2025/26 season, a 25% increase received reports.

Scottish Football and Other League News

Heart of Midlothian head coach Wouter Vrancken is aiming for another title challenge in the Scottish Premiership despite a shift in playing style looking to replicate. Celtic boss Martin O'Neill is keen to retain his key players amid interest from other clubs reiterated desire. Chris Cadden has left Hibernian to join Scottish Premiership rivals Aberdeen in search of more game time. The Scottish Premiership season is set to begin, with questions about whether any team can challenge Celtic and Rangers for the title begins on Friday. St Mirren manager Craig McLeish has been charged by the Scottish FA for comments made about a referee has been charged.