Last updated: August 6, 2026, 10:50 PM ET
FIFA Crisis Deepens as Infantino Faces Mounting Opposition
FIFA president Gianni Infantino faced a crisis meeting with senior staff in Morocco on Wednesday after his failed plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors sparked widespread condemnation. The world players' union FIFPRO condemned Infantino's "abuse of presidential power" and called for change at the top of FIFA following his botched World Cup stake sale plans. Two senior FIFA executives, coaching great Arsène Wenger and secretary general Mattias Grafström, distanced themselves Tuesday from their boss's failed plan to sell stakes in the organization's commercial operations. Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney said he no longer has confidence in Infantino, adding to growing pressure on the soccer leader after his abandoned plan. Portugal great Luís Figo joined calls for Infantino to step down over the failed plan to sell off the World Cup to private investors. The association of European soccer leagues called for governance reform of FIFA on Wednesday, adding to the mounting pressure on president Gianni Infantino. UEFA's boycott of FIFA tournaments still stands, with the FA now joining them in opposing Infantino's re-election next year. Former FIFA vice president David Gill accused Infantino of blackmailing Jordan over World Cup money in return for their support for him to stay on as president. FIFA said Wednesday it had apologized for errors made over Infantino's failed plan and that senior staff "reaffirmed their full confidence in the president." Rivals are reportedly circling in a bid to unseat Infantino as FIFA president following his disastrous plan to bring private equity into the World Cup.
Rodri Transfer Saga Dominates Headlines
Barcelona have been given the green light by Rodri to begin talks with Manchester City as they try to beat Real Madrid to a deal for the midfielder, a source told ESPN. Barcelona are set to approach Man City for midfielder Rodri and are hopeful they can beat their LaLiga rivals to the signing of the Spain captain, Sky Sports News understands. Midfielder Rodri may have a huge decision to make this summer on whether to join Real Madrid or Barcelona, should he decide to leave Manchester City. Barcelona are reportedly looking to sign Manchester City's Rodri ahead of Real Madrid, with the midfielder's future becoming the saga of the summer. The 29-year-old Spain international has established himself as one of the world's best midfielders since joining City from Atlético Madrid in 2019, winning multiple Premier League titles and the Champions League.
Vinicius Junior Ends Arsenal Interest with Real Madrid Extension
Vinicius Junior has signed a new six-year Real Madrid contract to put an end to Arsenal's pursuit of the forward. Real Madrid are set to meet with Vinicius Júnior's representatives this week to resume contract renewal talks, sources told ESPN, with the Brazilian star now committing his long-term future to the club. The news ends Arsenal's summer-long pursuit of the Brazilian winger, who had been identified as a top transfer target by the Gunners' hierarchy. Arsenal had been hopeful of landing Vinicius Junior but now must turn their attention elsewhere in their bid to improve their forward line this summer.
Salah Departs Liverpool for Trabzonspor
Mohamed Salah has joined Turkish Super Lig side Trabzonspor on a free transfer. The Egyptian winger decided to trade the Premier League for the Turkish club, but with time running out in the transfer window, his departure leaves Liverpool needing to find a replacement. Trabzonspor are the fourth-most popular club in Turkey, and Salah's arrival represents a major coup for the Super Lig outfit. Liverpool legend Ian Rush says new boss Andoni Iraola deserves time to succeed at Anfield but should target winning silverware in his debut campaign.
Arsenal Agree Fee for Bruno Guimaraes
Arsenal have agreed a £75m fee with Newcastle for their captain Bruno Guimaraes. Arsenal open direct talks with Newcastle United to sign captain Bruno Guimaraes, with the Gunners now closing in on the Brazilian midfielder. Newcastle United manager Matthias Jaissle says a decision about Bruno Guimaraes' future was "already made" by the time he first met the club's departing captain. The Brazilian midfielder's arrival at the Emirates would represent a major statement of intent from Mikel Arteta's side.
Other Major Transfers and Rumours
Crystal Palace are set to sign Takehiro Tomiyasu on a free transfer following a successful trial and are considering a move for winger Solly March. Chelsea are set to clinch a deal to sign Rayo Vallecano left-back Pep Chavarria for a fee of around £16.3m (€19m) plus add-ons. Leeds United have signed goalkeeper James Trafford from Manchester City in a club-record deal. Hull City sign Greece goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis from Olympiacos on a five-year deal for a club-record fee. Bournemouth announce the signing of right-back Juanlu Sanchez from Spanish club Sevilla in a deal worth up to £11.1m. Liverpool have explored the conditions of a deal for Paris Saint-Germain's teenage winger Ibrahim Mbaye. Liverpool are prepared to make Bradley Barcola their third £100m signing, with the France and Paris St-Germain winger targeted for a move to Anfield. Wrexham have signed midfielder Ben Whiteman from Preston on a three-year contract for an undisclosed fee. Millwall sign Scotland striker Lyndon Dykes on a one-year deal following the end of his contract with Charlton Athletic. Swansea City sign free agent Ross Stewart on a three-year deal following the Scotland striker's departure from Southampton. Birmingham City sign France youth international Chancelle Effa Effa from Le Havre. Everton have completed the signing of Denmark international Christian Nørgaard from Arsenal. Former Mexico star Hirving "Chucky" Lozano is finalizing a deal to join the LA Galaxy on loan from San Diego FC, sources told ESPN. Manchester United are reportedly looking at a move for USMNT's Antonee Robinson. Fenerbahce are prepared to break the bank for Marcus Rashford, with the Turkish club readying a huge offer for the Manchester United forward. Marcus Rashford is expected to return to Manchester United training in the coming days as debate continues over whether that is a good thing or not. Tottenham are interested in Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo, with the data suggesting he could fit well into Roberto de Zerbi's side. Real Madrid have added World Cup star Yan Diomande to a forward line that already features Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham and Vinícius Júnior. Franco Mastantuono is set to join Fiorentina from Real Madrid on a season-long loan, sources told ESPN.
European Qualifying Results
Hearts endured a predictably bruising evening in Lisbon as their hopes of progressing to the Europa League were all but ended by a 6-1 thrashing at the hands of Benfica. Rangers' Europa League hopes were dealt a blow as they fell to a 2-1 defeat to Jagiellonia Bialystok in qualifying. Derek McInnes says Rangers were "guilty of beating ourselves" as he bemoaned the loss of cheap goals in the Europa League qualifying first-leg defeat to Jagiellonia Bialystok in Poland. Derek McInnes is still looking for his first win as Rangers manager after they fell to a 2-1 defeat to Jagiellonia Bialystok. A night of European action saw Rangers and Hearts lose, Motherwell draw and Hibernian win. Motherwell were held in Helsinki, while Hibs secured a vital win in their Conference League qualifying ties. Rangers have completed the signing of winger Daisuke Yokota from Hannover, with the Japanese international handed his debut against Jagiellonia Bialystok. Yokota targets "special memories" as he seals his Rangers move, with the winger hoping to make an immediate impact.
Preseason Friendlies and Carabao Cup
Mikel Arteta said his Arsenal players were "fuming" after defensive errors saw them fall to a 3-1 preseason defeat to Real Betis in Dublin on Wednesday. Arteta revealed his players were "fuming" after Arsenal produced a sloppy performance as they were beaten 3-1 by LaLiga side Real Betis in a pre-season friendly in Dublin. Chelsea failed to ramp up their pre-season preparations as Xabi Alonso's side suffered a 1-0 defeat to Juventus in Hong Kong thanks to Edon Zhegrova's stunning second-half strike. Mykhailo Mudryk could return to action following 20 months on the sidelines on Wednesday after being named in Chelsea's squad to play Juventus in a friendly in Hong Kong. Walsall shocked Bristol City in the Carabao Cup curtain raiser, with the first-round tie producing an upset. The Carabao Cup is back for the 2026/27 season, with every first-round tie available to watch live on Sky Sports. The bulk of the EFL cup's first round fixtures will take place on a weekend, despite traditionally being a midweek cup competition.
Premier League and EFL News
The 2026-27 Premier League season has not yet kicked off, but it has already made history for its managerial changes, with a record number of new managers taking charge. Liverpool's time in the U.S. showed that coach Iraola & Co. still have a lot of work to do ahead of the 2026-27 campaign. Liverpool are short in a number of positions just three weeks out from their Premier League opener and seemingly no closer to bringing in any further additions this summer. Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai says he has "cleared" the situation with team-mates Curtis Jones and Kostas Tsimikas after they seemingly argued over the captain's armband. Manchester City's Mateo Kovacic says the club "count on me" despite the midfielder being linked with a move away this summer. Winger Jeremy Doku is the latest Manchester City player to commit his future to the club after signing a new contract until 2031. Enzo Maresca won his first game in charge of Manchester City with a 3-1 win over the K-League All Stars in Seoul. Jeremy Monga's £10m move from Leicester to Manchester City may have gone under the radar this summer, but the teenager is aiming to emulate Eden Hazard after rejecting Arsenal. Southampton midfielder Flynn Downes says he and his team-mates have a "chip on their shoulder" he believes can help them win the Championship. Newly promoted Ipswich Town complete the signing of Portuguese midfielder Florentino Luis from Burnley for an undisclosed fee. Cardiff City sign Lincoln City midfielder Jack Moylan for an undisclosed fee on a four-year deal. Coventry City confirm the permanent signing of 25-year-old goalkeeper Carl Rushworth from Brighton and Hove Albion.
Scottish Football
Celtic manager Martin O'Neill remains in hospital after undergoing a "small procedure", the club announced. Celtic won their opening match but questions remain over whether they are ready for Europe, while Dundee showed promise in defeat. The opening weekend of the Scottish Premiership season delivered four days, six matches, 18 goals, and one opening weekend full of unmissable drama. The Scottish FA will no longer use a key match incident review panel.
The Hundred and Cricket
A Sikandar Raza masterclass inspired MI London to come away with the spoils to jump up to second in the table and condemn London Spirit to an early departure from The Hundred. Melie Kerr's defiant half-century and decisive death bowling from Hayley Matthews helped MI London to a belated first win of the season against capital rivals London Spirit. SunRisers Leeds posted 241-2, the highest score in the history of The Hundred, before cruising to a comfortable victory over London Spirit. SunRisers Leeds kept their faint hopes of progression from The Hundred group stage alive with a hard-fought five-wicket victory over London Spirit at Headingley. Trent Rockets extended their lead at the top of The Hundred table with a near-perfect performance that secured their fifth win in six games, leaving Birmingham Phoenix rooted to the bottom. Trent Rockets went top of The Hundred women's table after a fourth win on the bounce against Birmingham Phoenix at Trent Bridge that all but assures them a spot in the latter stages of the tournament. Pakistan ended their eight-match away Test losing streak in emphatic fashion on Wednesday, securing an eight-wicket victory over the West Indies. Returning captain Joe Root and England have named their 16-man squad for the opening two Tests against Pakistan. Jacob Bethell will miss the entirety of England's upcoming Test series against Pakistan, while Ollie Pope and Brydon Carse have been named in the 16-man squad. Ben Stokes has said he would "absolutely" love to coach England one day, as he also suggested Brendon McCullum would still be in charge of the Test team had he not announced his own international retirement.
Boxing and Combat Sports
Tyson Fury vs Anthony Joshua is still expected to be announced in August, even if the all-British heavyweight clash is relocated to America. Jake Paul's rematch with Tommy Fury "makes most sense" as the American star targets a return to boxing, says Most Valuable Promotions partner Nakisa Bidarian. Moses Itauma will fight for the vacant IBF world heavyweight title when he faces Filip Hrgovic in London on August 29. Former heavyweight world champion Joseph Parker claimed a failed drugs test that resulted in him being suspended from boxing was caused by exposure to cocaine being used by his nutritionist. Aaron McKenna is not short of ambition, with the Irish middleweight fighting for the world title this Saturday, live on Sky Sports. British boxer Raven Chapman underwent emergency surgery for a bleed on her brain after collapsing following a sparring session in Denmark. Eddie Hearn believes Henry Pollock has the superstar status to awaken the sleeping giant that is rugby union, but insists the England and Lions flanker, and his peers, must be rewarded in line with their value. Joe Ward had the world at his feet as an amateur boxing sensation, until disaster struck, over and over again.
Tennis
Cameron Norrie claimed a comfortable victory at the National Bank Open in Montreal to set up a third-round meeting with Katie Boulter's new husband Alex De Minaur. Five years on from winning his biggest title in Indian Wells, Britain's Cameron Norrie has found his form to dump out third seed Alex de Minaur and reach the fourth round of the National Bank Open. Jack Draper was left in tears after losing to Terence Atmane as the Brit's long-term arm injury appeared to resurface and hamper him on his return to action at the Canadian Open. Carlos Alcaraz has withdrawn from the Cincinnati Open due to an ongoing wrist injury, increasing worries over his US Open title defence, which begins on August 30. Emma Raducanu could benefit from ending her season early to focus on recovery and secure a protected ranking before making her return in 2027, according to former British No 1 Annabel Croft. Charley Hull is buoyed by how well she has played this season but admitted injuries have prevented her from performing at her best. Dame Laura Davies has called upon Charley Hull to "step up and lead" Team Europe at the Solheim Cup in September.
NFL and Other Sports
The Atlanta Falcons have agreed to a three-year contract extension with Bijan Robinson that will make him the highest-paid running back in NFL history. Max Verstappen has praised the "rock solid" performances that have taken Kimi Antonelli to the top of Formula 1's Drivers' Championship over the first half of the 2026 season. Formula 1 president Stefano Domenicali has confirmed contingency plans are in place for the 2027 F1 calendar if the conflict in the Middle East continues next year. The Paddy Power PDC World Championship dates have been confirmed for Friday December 11 to Sunday January 3 with a record 180,000 tickets on offer. Warrington Wolves and Wigan Warriors will make history in 2027 when they play the first-ever Super League fixture to be played in Ireland. South African, New Zealand, Australian and Argentina Rugby (SANZAAR) and Sky Sports have agreed a deal for international rugby rights from 2026-2030, extending an over-three-decade-long partnership. Several athletes are "unaccounted for" after the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, according to Police Scotland. Riders at the Tour de France Femmes will be subject to extra clothing checks before Tuesday's stage following claims that some could be using extra padding in their bras to seek an aerodynamic advantage. The Argentine Football Association announces 15 July as National Football Teams Day to mark Argentina's 2026 World Cup semi-final victory over England.
Rugby and Other News
Tomas Albornoz has been suspended for four matches after being hit with a misconduct charge following Argentina's Nations Championship defeat against England last month. Former England defender Kyle Walker says he is "at ease" with his decision to quit international football and hoped it could lead to an extended club career, similar to that enjoyed by James Milner. The West Ham United Fan Advisory Board (FAB) has called on David Sullivan not to attend the club's home matches, warning his presence could become a "distraction" and a potential security concern. West Ham co-chair Daniel Kretinsky sells a small stake in the club in a move that could end Amanda Staveley's hopes of investment. Manchester United admit making mistakes in the execution of their ticket touting investigation but insist the reasons for it are valid. Former AC Milan and Brazil forward Alexandre Pato is a member of a consortium which is set to buy a majority stake in League Two club Northampton Town. Ebbsfleet United's first three National League South games of the season are suspended because of the club's financial problems. Bangor striker Ben Arthurs is free to play in his club's first game of the 2026-27 Irish Premiership season having completed a three-month anti-doping ban. The 27-year-old Uganda international was killed by suspected robbers after resisting an attempt to rob him, police say. Alex Hughes, son of former Wales manager Mark Hughes, was found collapsed at his home in Macclesfield, Cheshire, on 19 June by his two sons, having died of sudden adult death syndrome. Israel supporters will be in attendance when their side face the Republic of Ireland in the Nations League next month but no away fans will be facilitated. Retired referee Anthony Taylor is appointed as director of elite refereeing for the Turkish Football Federation. Newcastle United CEO David Hopkinson has called new head coach Matthias Jaissle a "rock star" with "no ceiling on where his career could go." Newcastle United appoint Matthias Jaissle, as head coach to succeed Eddie Howe, with the German bringing a new approach to St James' Park. Tottenham boss Roberto de Zerbi hopes he can guide his club back up the Premier League table through his self-confessed love of the transfer window. Micky van de Ven is close to agreeing a new five-year contract with Tottenham Hotspur. Manchester United teenager JJ Gabriel has been given a trading card made with real 24-carat gold, days after making his unofficial senior debut for the club. Boreham Wood reject a £1m bid for one of their forwards, with the non-league star Abdulmalik attracting significant interest. Sacha Lewis, sister of England international Rico, signs her first professional contract with Women's Super League side Manchester City. Ajax have completed the signing of Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen on a season-long loan. Chelsea goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen is set to seal a season-long loan to Strasbourg, part of the same ownership group as the London club. Inter Miami has not expressed interest in signing Kevin De Bruyne, a club source confirmed to ESPN. MLS opened an investigation over "reported antisemitic and discriminatory language" from fans directed at New England Revolution striker Dor Turgeman during their Saturday 2-2 draw against CF Montreal. Lionel Messi scored a stellar pair of goals to guide his team to a come-from-behind 4-2 rout of Atlético de San Luis in its first game of the 2026 Leagues Cup. Inter Miami head coach Guillermo Hoyos said Luis Suárez cannot be replaced as the team prepares to navigate the Leagues Cup without the forward due to his lengthy suspension. The president of Brazilian club Remo accused Santos star Neymar of provocation after Tuesday's Brazilian Cup game. Neymar has not ruled out retiring from football once his contract with Santos expires at the end of the year. Bernardo Silva said he "didn't think twice" about joining Real Madrid after completing his first training session with the club on Monday. Ferran Torres has come under fire from Barcelona supporters after leaving the door open to a potential move away from the club. Cape Verde coach Bubista, who led the World Cup debutants to a stellar tournament, joined Moroccan club RS Berkane on Tuesday. Head coach Bubista leaves Cape Verde after reaching the last 32 at the World Cup while Ivory Coast reappoint two-time Afcon winner Herve Renard. Although he spent most of his career with smaller clubs in lower divisions, Vozinha always believed he belonged on a bigger stage. Emma Hayes urged US Soccer to prioritize the U.S. Under-20 Women's national team at this year's World Cup to help American youth players match the development of top European teams. Midfielder Erica Meg Parkinson, has been named in England's preparation squad for the Under-20 Women's World Cup in Poland next month. The new season of "Ted Lasso" was filmed in the U.S. at a real-life NWSL club for a cameo that serves as a key plot point of the show. The National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) plans to begin its 2027 season on Feb. 11 in Los Angeles to coincide with the Super Bowl across town three days later. Washington's loss to San Diego saw the Spirit surrender the No. 1 spot on ESPN's NWSL Power Rankings, with Utah laying claim to best in the league. Manchester United have appointed Eva Olid to take over as manager, less than a month out from the WSL season. Manchester United appoint former Hearts boss Eva Olid as their new women's manager on a two-year deal, with an option for a further 12 months. Defender Gabby George has completed a move to Brighton from Manchester United before the start of the Women's Super League season. Liverpool have signed Spanish midfielder Natalia Ramos from CD Tenerife Femenino, subject to visa approval and international clearance. Kerolin only joined the Women's Super League from the NWSL 18 months ago, and she now leaves as the English top-flight's most expensive export. Larry Berg will succeed Don Garber as new MLS commissioner beginning next year. Mauricio Pochettino will remain U.S. men's national team coach through the 2030 World Cup. The United States men's national team returns to action for the first time since the 2026 World Cup during the September/October FIFA international window, hosting Peru, Chile, Canada and Mexico in friendly matches. United States midfielder Gio Reyna has completed a move to Strasbourg from Borussia Mönchengladbach. The 2026 summer transfer window is well underway, with several U.S. players finding new homes, including Arfsten earning a B+ grade for his Boro move. Premier League side Crystal Palace are in advanced talks to sign Real Salt Lake's 19-year-old wing-back Zavier Gozo, a source confirmed to ESPN. Spain "deserves" to host the 2030 World Cup final, according to the country's sports minister Milagros Tolón. Women in the Afghanistan national team, which is recognised by FIFA, say football has given them freedom and independence after reuniting 8,000 miles away from home. Meet Mjallby striker Jacob Bergstrom, a former sandwich maker who cycles to games and hopes to upset Yaya Toure's new club in the Champions League. The qualifying process to make Luke Donald's 2027 European Ryder Cup team will start at the British Masters later this month. Slica Bay, Sea Suite and Ben Nevis line up for the Brighton Mile this afternoon, live on Sky Sports Racing. Tuesday's action comes from Ffos Las and Lingfield, with seven races from each live on Sky Sports Racing. There have always been comebacks in sport, but some are more unexpected than others, especially after a speedy and successful transition to another career, as Eve Muirhead comes out of retirement to chase another Winter Olympics gold. Callum Walsh doesn't shy away from danger, with the unbeaten contender from Ireland looking to break through into the highest echelons of the middleweight division. Castleford Tigers head coach Ryan Carr will not be in attendance at the Hull KR game due to personal reasons. Winger Harvey Barron scored a first senior hat-trick as Hull FC ended a seven-game losing run with a 32-18 comeback win at St Helens.