Football/Soccer 3 Hours

Last updated: May 21, 2026, 2:45 PM ET

World Cup Shake-up

England defender Harry Maguire said he is "shocked and gutted" to be left out of the World Cup squad, joining playmaker Phil Foden who will also miss the tournament for Thomas Tuchel's side. Compounding the USMNT's defensive worries, Crystal Palace confirmed Chris Richards suffered two torn ankle ligaments just days before the American roster announcement. The 26-year-old is now a major doubt for the 2026 World Cup on home soil.

Champions League Final Buildups

Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembélé has vowed to be fit for Saturday's Champions League final against Arsenal, despite a recent hamstring issue. In Serie A, AC Milan will turn to a masked Luka Modrić to boost their UCL push on the final day, with the Croatian playmaker returning from a facial fracture to aid their chase for a top-four spot.

Managerial Carousel & Tactical Notes

Carlo Ancelotti's decision to recall Neymar for Brazil is being framed as a final act of faith for the 32-year-old's fourth World Cup attempt. Meanwhile, Michael Carrick stated "clarity is around the corner" regarding his long-awaited official confirmation as Manchester United head coach. In France, Jens Berthel Askou has departed Motherwell after one season to take charge of Toulouse.

Leagues & Governance

Middlesbrough's manager Kim Hellberg expressed relief that the "right thing was done" following Southampton's expulsion, which reinstated Boro in the Championship playoffs amid the ongoing Spygate controversy. Down in Portugal, the battle to avoid Premier League relegation between Tottenham and West Ham has created a final-day drama, while in Scotland, the FA backed referee Don Robertson's decision to end the Celtic-Hearts title decider after a pitch invasion, as manager Martin O'Neill noted the assault allegations against Hearts players "have not been proved."