Football/Soccer 3 Days

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

Pre-Season Friendlies and Tournament Action

Maresca’s first match as Manchester City manager resulted in a 1-1 draw against Inter Milan in Hong Kong, followed by a 3-1 penalty shootout loss. Bryan Mbeumo twice to give Manchester United a 2-1 friendly victory over Atlético Madrid in Stockholm. In another friendly Real Madrid drew 2-2 with Fiorentina in what was José Mourinho's initial game in charge as their new coach. Arsenal achieved a dominant 4-1 win against Girona in their first pre-season encounter at Montilivi, with Max Dowman contributing a goal and an assist. Jude Bellingham from the sidelines as his former club Birmingham City defeated Barcelona 2-2 on penalties.

Transfer Market Buzz and Club Business

Manchester City reportedly pursuing a deal for Ayyoub Bouaddi, irrespective of Rodri's future at the Etihad Stadium. Bayern Munich interested in Manchester United striker Benjamin Sesko, potentially as a replacement for Harry Kane. Chelsea has agreed to a four-year contract for Italian attacking midfielder Giulia Dragoni, signing her from Barcelona. Brentford has finalized the signing of Mali midfielder Mamadou Sangare from Lens for a club-record fee. Bournemouth is set to acquire defender Antonio Silva from Benfica for a fee approaching £26 million. Real Madrid signed forward Carlos Espí from Levante on a five-year contract.

Club Ownership and Strategic Moves

A consortium led by Amanda Staveley has agreed to terms for a minority stake in West Ham United. Staveley's company Capital Partners, is in discussions to purchase a 25.1% share of the Championship club. Chelsea has been fined £10 million and handed a suspended two-window transfer ban following admissions of breaches in Football Association agent rules. Swansea City coach Vitor Matos has agreed to a new contract that will keep him at the club until 2030.

Player Movements and Contract Situations

Mohamed Salah reportedly nearing a transfer to Trabzonspor. Marcus Rashford concluded his loan spell at Barcelona and returned to Manchester United ahead of the new Premier League season. Liverpool midfielder Elliott remains uncertain about his long-term future at Anfield after a challenging loan spell at Aston Villa. Senne Lammens returned to Manchester United training early to prepare for the upcoming season.

International and League Updates

FIFA has initiated a consultation process regarding the expansion of the men's World Cup to 64 teams, with a decision targeted for August 14. FIFA president Infantino has abandoned his controversial plan to sell stakes in future World Cup profits after facing significant opposition from football's governing bodies. The FA has introduced new rules that will impose a minimum of 10-game bans for players found guilty of discrimination. Scottish Premiership season has commenced, with Aberdeen defeating Hearts 2-1 in their opening match. St Mirren a 2-0 away victory against Falkirk in their Scottish Premiership opener, thanks to Killian Phillips' brace. Rangers began season with a draw against Dundee United.

Individual Performances and Player News

Bryan Mbeumo both goals for Manchester United in their friendly win over Atlético Madrid. Phil Foden aiming to repay Manchester City's faith and embrace a fresh start under new manager Enzo Maresca. Former AC and Italy defender Franco Baresi has passed away at the age of.

Other Sports News

golf, Yealimi Noh has taken the lead at the AIG Women's Open, with Lottie Woad and Charley Hull still in contention. Cameron Young tied for the lead at the Rocket Classic after a second-round. In rugby league Leeds Rhinos secured a dominant 46-0 victory over Toulouse, while Wigan Warriors defeated Leigh Leopards 20-8. Wolves moved into fourth place in the Super League with a 48-18 win over Castleford Tigers. Giants beat Hull FC 22-16 in a bottom-of-the-table Super League clash. netball, England reached the Commonwealth Games semi-finals after defeating South Africa 58-54. They later a bronze medal after a 61-54 loss to New Zealand in the semi-finals. boxing, Tarona Taafaki won Tuvalu's first Commonwealth Games medal, a bronze in the 75kg division. Chris Eubank negotiations for a fight in Nigeria are reportedly progressing well.