Football/Soccer 3 Hours

Last updated: May 18, 2026, 2:44 PM ET

World Cup Shake-up

Spain's World Cup hopes suffered a blow as Barcelona midfielder Fermín López requires foot surgery for a fractured metatarsal, ruling him out of this summer's tournament. Meanwhile, Austria ended a 28-year World Cup drought by including veteran striker Marko Arnautovic in their squad, adding experience to their first finals appearance since 1998.

Club Turmoil

Austin FC dismissed head coach Nico Estévez and sporting director Rodolfo Borrell amid a severe MLS slump, with the club sitting near the Western Conference basement just one year after a playoff return. In England, Leeds United pledged "lengthy stadium bans" for supporters involved in homophobic chanting during their Premier League draw with Brighton, promising swift action following the incident.

Injury Concerns

Paris Saint-Germain confirmed Ousmane Dembélé will undergo treatment for a right calf muscle strain over the coming days, casting doubt on his availability for the Champions League final. The France winger's fitness will be monitored closely ahead of next weekend's decisive match against Inter Milan.

Match Fallout

The Professional Game Match Officials Limited admitted Manchester United's second goal against Nottingham Forest should have been disallowed for handball, a retrospective error that influenced the Red Devils' vital Premier League win. Arsenal, meanwhile, announced a bold attacking lineup featuring Martin Ødegaard and Michael Olise for their final Premier League fixture against Burnley, signaling an all-out approach.

Domestic Leagues

LAFC's hopes of topping the MLS Power Rankings faded after a loss to Nashville SC, allowing the Tennessee side to edge closer to the summit. In the NWSL, the top-two clash between San Diego and Washington ended in a draw, leaving the final Power Rankings order finely poised.