Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: August 1, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

FIFA and World Cup Governance

FIFA president Infantino is facing significant pressure and criticism following his controversial plan to sell stakes in World Cup profits to private equity investors. This plan has been met with fierce opposition from football's governing bodies, leading Infantino to abandon it. Despite this setback, FIFA has advanced plans for a 64-team men's World Cup, aiming for a decision by August 14th. The 2027 Women's World Cup was set to be the first major tournament impacted by FIFA's plans, raising concerns about the disrespect shown to the women's game. There is speculation about whether Infantino might lose his FIFA presidency if he continues to face such opposition, with discussions already beginning about potential successors. Some reports suggest FIFA could receive its first private World Cup cash by the end of October, despite UEFA's opposition. African football's governing body has yet to take a definitive side on FIFA's plan to sell stakes in its competitions to private investors.

Premier League and Club Transfers

Manchester United focused on affordable transfer options this summer, while Chelsea, Manchester City, and Tottenham Hotspur have all spent considerable sums. Manchester City intends to pursue a deal for Ayyoub Bouaddi regardless of Rodri's future at the club. Real Madrid is reportedly open to the possibility of Vinícius Júnior leaving if a new contract agreement isn't reached, and they do not plan to increase their offer. Arsenal is reportedly confident of signing Bruno Guimarães from Newcastle United, following Eddie Howe's departure. Chelsea has been fined £10 million and handed a suspended two-window transfer ban after admitting breaches of Football Association agent rules. Tottenham Hotspur is looking to complete another significant transfer, according to head coach Roberto De Zerbi.

Club and Player News

Real Madrid Jude Bellingham returned to Birmingham City to watch his former club defeat Barcelona on penalties after a 2-2 draw. Real Madrid has signed forward Carlos Espí from Levante on a five-year contract. Former striker Diego Forlán has been appointed interim head coach of Uruguay's national team until March 2027. Casemiro has stated his desire to help Lionel Messi win more trophies with Inter Miami, having labeled Messi the "god of football." Marcus Rashford has returned to Manchester United after his loan spell at Barcelona concluded. Liverpool midfielder Harvey Elliott remains unsure about his long-term future at Anfield following a difficult loan spell at Aston Villa.

European Football Transfers and Rumors

Bayern Munich reportedly targeting Manchester United striker Benjamin Sesko as a long-term successor to Harry Kane. Real Madrid is prepared to let Vinícius Júnior depart if a contract agreement cannot be reached and are not planning to increase their offer. Manchester City is pursuing a deal for Ayyoub Bouaddi, even if Rodri remains at the club. Arsenal and Newcastle United have agreed on a fee for Bruno Guimarães, with Arsenal reportedly growing more confident of securing the signing. Inter Milan is said to have increased their bid for Liverpool's Curtis Jones. Tottenham Hotspur's manager, Roberto De Zerbi, has hinted at a major new transfer for the club.

Scottish Football Updates

Rangers have made South Africa defender Olwethu Makhanya their eighth summer signing, acquiring him from Philadelphia Union for an undisclosed fee. Rangers also reportedly accepted an offer from Al-Taawoun for Nedim Bajrami. Celtic manager Martin O'Neill is keen to retain key players amid interest in Arne Engels and Alistair Johnston. West Ham is in discussions with Celtic regarding the transfer of midfielder Arne Engels, with the Scottish club seeking approximately £25 million. The Scottish Premiership season is set to commence, with previews available for the upcoming campaign. St Mirren manager Craig McLeish has been charged by the Scottish FA for comments made about a referee.

Women's Football News

The 2027 Women's World Cup was poised to be the first major tournament affected by FIFA's controversial plans, raising concerns about the treatment of the women's game. All 16 NWSL teams have received midseason grades, assessing their performance at the halfway point of the season. Manchester City will begin their Women's Super League title defense against newly-promoted Birmingham City in the 2026/27 season. Tottenham Hotspur has demonstrated significant ambitions in the Women's Super League through their summer transfer business.

Other Football News and Transfers

Chelsea winger Mudryk has been cleared to play after his doping ban was resolved. Swansea City head coach Vitor Matos has agreed to a new contract extending his stay until 2030. Chelsea has signed Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace for £51 million. Jordan Henderson has left Brentford as a free agent and is expected to join Chelsea. Real Madrid has agreed to a deal with Fulham for forward Gonzalo García.

Other Sports News

Boxer Tarona secured Tuvalu's first Commonwealth Games medal, a bronze in the women's 75kg division, without winning a fight. England's netball team advanced to the semi-finals at the Commonwealth Games after defeating South Africa 58-54. Golfer Trey Mullinax has received a six-month ban for an anti-doping violation. Reigning Formula 1 world champion Lando Norris is still capable of retaining his title. Teenage dart sensation Luke Littler has raised questions about his dominance in the sport after winning the World Matchplay Darts.