Football/Soccer 3 Days

Last updated: August 8, 2026, 12:08 AM ET

FIFA Leadership Crisis

The pressure on FIFA president Gianni Infantino intensified over the past three days, with the Norwegian federation calling for his resignation and Portugal legend Luis Figo joining the chorus. Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney said he lost confidence in Infantino, while UEFA's boycott of FIFA tournaments stands and the English FA has withdrawn support. In response, Mexico and Argentina have backed Infantino, and an allegation that UEFA paid off an alleged mistress of Infantino has emerged. Former FIFA vice-president also accused Infantino of blackmail. Meanwhile, European leagues called for FIFA reform, and potential challengers to Infantino for the presidency are circling. Infantino has apologized for "errors" in his World Cup stake sale plan.

US Soccer Updates

U.S. women's coach Emma Hayes said she was "delighted" that Mauricio Pochettino signed a new deal to remain U.S. men's coach through 2030. Hayes also urged U.S. Soccer to prioritize youth development ahead of the U-20 Women's World Cup. The USMNT's first fixtures after Pochettino's new deal will see them host Peru, Chile, Canada and Mexico. In transfers, USMNT's Arfsten earned a B+ for his move to Middlesbrough, while Hirving "Chucky" Lozano joined LA Galaxy on loan from San Diego. A source confirmed Zavier Gozo is close to joining Crystal Palace.

Major Transfers and Contract News

The biggest headlines include Mohamed Salah's move to Trabzonspor on a free transfer, with an analysis examining why he left Liverpool. Vinícius Júnior ended speculation by signing a new six-year Real Madrid contract. Bruno Guimarães completed a £75m move to Arsenal, with Newcastle's sporting director saying the decision was emotional. Leeds United broke their club record to sign goalkeeper James Trafford from Manchester City. Liverpool are ready to make Bradley Barcola their third £100m signing, while Arsenal could hijack that move. Barcelona are set to approach Manchester City for Rodri, with the midfielder facing a choice between Real Madrid and Barcelona. Liverpool also agreed a surprise loan for Barcelona's Ronald Araujo. Atletico Madrid are in talks with Tottenham over captain Cristian Romero. Tottenham themselves are targeting Folarin Balogun and others. Real Madrid's Mastantuono joined Fiorentina on loan.

Carabao Cup Action

The Carabao Cup first round saw several notable results. Will Lankshear's debut strike gave Middlesbrough a 1-0 win over Wrexham, with the same match covered live on Sky Sports LIVE. Walsall stunned Bristol City in the curtain raiser. The second-round draw will take place on Monday, with 11 Premier League teams entering. An explanation for why the first round was played on a weekend was also provided.

European Club Football and Friendlies

Scottish clubs had a mixed week in Europe. Rangers lost 2-1 to Jagiellonia Bialystok in Europa League qualifying, with Daisuke Yokota handed his debut. Hearts were thrashed 6-1 by Benfica, while Hibs secured a vital win and Motherwell drew in Helsinki. Reaction to the mixed results was covered on Sportsound. In friendlies, Arsenal's players were fuming after a 3-1 loss to Real Betis. Bayern Munich held off Aston Villa 2-1 in Hong Kong, while Chelsea fell 1-0 to Juventus there. Manchester City beat the K-League All Stars 3-1.

Women's Football and WSL Updates

England's Women's Super League season is approaching. Manchester United appointed Eva Olid as manager, with an analysis of the switch from Marc Skinner. Arsenal midfielder Mariona Caldentey believes the club can win the Treble. The key dates for the 2026-27 women's football season have been outlined. In the NWSL, Ted Lasso features a real-life club cameo. France confirmed they will compete in the U-20 Women's World Cup despite UEFA's boycott threat. England's Erica Meg Parkinson was named in the squad.

MLS and Leagues Cup

Lionel Messi scored a brace to lead Inter Miami to a 4-2 Leagues Cup win over Atlético de San Luis. However, Luis Suárez is suspended for the competition. MLS has a new commissioner: Larry Berg will succeed Don Garber.

Scottish Football – Domestic and Governance

The Scottish FA will hold a summit on the future of the national game. The key match incident panel has been scrapped. Rangers are linked with PSV winger Driouech, while Celtic push for a Ghedjemis deal. The Scottish Premiership season preview highlights early troubles for title hopefuls. A podcast reacts to European results and makes weekend predictions.

Other Football News

England striker Ivan Toney has been charged with assault causing actual bodily harm. The FA banned solid perimeter walls after the death of Billy Vigar. Assistant referee Sian Massey-Ellis retired to take up an FA role. Leicester's 2016 title memories were revisited as they prepare for League One. The National League kicks off with drama expected. Southampton boss Tonda Eckert addressed the Spygate scandal. Coventry City signed Caleb Yirenkyi for a club record fee. Wrexham signed Ben Whiteman from Preston. Everton signed Christian Nørgaard from Arsenal. Birmingham City signed Chancelle Effa Effa for £100k. Crystal Palace completed the signing of Takehiro Tomiyasu after a trial. Millwall signed Lyndon Dykes on a one-year deal. Cardiff City signed Jack Moylan from Lincoln. Bournemouth signed Juanlu Sánchez from Sevilla. Swansea signed Ross Stewart on a free. Hull City broke their record for goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis and also signed Jens Hjerto-Dahl. Notts County signed Dean Campbell from Northampton.

Other Sports Briefs

In The Hundred, Phoebe Litchfield hit the fastest fifty to eliminate Birmingham Phoenix women, while the men's side were also knocked out by Sun Risers Leeds. MI London's Sikandar Raza inspired a derby win. In boxing, Tyson Fury vs Anthony Joshua is expected to be finalized by end of August, with Dana White revealing the venue deal. Joseph Parker claimed a failed drug test was caused by his nutritionist. In golf, Charley Hull shot a course-record 62 in London. In rugby, All Blacks beat the Stormers 38-21 on their South Africa tour. In boxing, Aaron McKenna aims to unify at middleweight and fight at heavyweight.