Football/Soccer 3 Hours

Last updated: July 31, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

FIFA World Cup Plans Face Opposition

FIFA president Infantino has abandoned his controversial proposal to sell stakes in the World Cup following widespread backlash and threatened boycotts. Two senior officials criticized the plan, with one resigning as a presidential adviser and another stating staff were deceived by the project. FIFA's chief officer also strongly criticized Gianni Infantino's plan to sell stakes in competitions to private investors. Despite the opposition FIFA is advancing plans for a 64-team men's World Cup, with a decision targeted for August 14. However, FIFA doubling down on its World Cup plans amidst threats of a UEFA boycott, asserting that "nobody is selling football." This controversy risks undermining years of progress in women's soccer, potentially impacting the 2027 Women's World Cup.

Club News and Player Movements

Newcastle United confirmed Eddie Howe has stepped down from his role as head coach. Inter Miami Guillermo Hoyos stated he will be discussing Lionel Messi's return to action following his participation in the 2026 World Cup with Argentina. Scotland international Bowie has completed a loan move from Hellas Verona to Serie A side Sassuolo. Real Madrid reportedly open to the possibility of Vinícius Júnior leaving the club if a new contract agreement is not reached, with no plans to increase their offer. Real Madrid England star Jude Bellingham was present to watch his former club, Birmingham City, defeat Barcelona on penalties after a 2-2 draw. Chelsea winger Mudryk has been cleared to play immediately after the Football Association and the World Anti-Doping Agency resolved his appeal against a ban for failing a doping test.

Transfer Rumors and League Standings

AC Milan made contact with Ethan Nwaneri, while Inter Milan has increased their bid for Curtis Jones, and Cristian Romero is exploring a move to Spain. According to newspaper reports, Real Madrid is open to allowing Arsenal target Vinícius Jr to leave the club. An assessment of the NWSL season at its halfway point provides midseason grades for all 16 teams, indicating which clubs are performing well and which are struggling. McInnes insists Rangers will improve under his leadership following his team's Scottish Premiership draw at Dundee United.

Other Football Notes

Vozinha, the breakout Cape Verde goalkeeper, will be permitted to display his nickname on his jersey as he joins Chilean football. J.J. Watt enhanced Burnley's profile since becoming a minority shareholder, even participating in delivering milk around the town to promote the team's new kit. World No. golfer Cameron Young surged into a share of the lead at the Rocket Classic in Detroit after carding a nine-under 61 in the second round.