Football/Soccer 8 Hours

Last updated: July 22, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

World Cup Buzz and Player Reactions

Spain's World Cup triumph has sparked a variety of reactions and celebrations. Midfielder Gavi has urged FIFA not to punish the Argentine players for their actions following the final said Gavi, while Robert Lewandowski praised his teammate Lamine Yamal's contribution despite injury praised Yamal. Lionel Messi reportedly encouraged Yamal to "go his own way" after the match and has since returned to Rosario, Argentina, to rest arrived in Rosario. The World Cup final itself saw record viewership in North America, drawing over 60 million viewers, and the tournament's betting handle in the U.S. reportedly rivaled that of "10 Super Bowls". In a unique gesture, World Cup winners Fabián Ruiz and Gavi were gifted their weight in tomatoes by their hometown received tomatoes.

Transfer Market Activity and Rumors

The transfer window continues to be active, with several clubs making moves and exploring options. Aston Villa have reportedly agreed to a deal to sign Alejandro Garnacho from Chelsea, though details surrounding the nature of the deal are being clarified. Major League Soccer has launched an investigation into Inter Miami regarding a potential tampering allegation in the signing of Casemiro, who has officially joined the club on a free transfer from Manchester United. In other transfer news, Barcelona are reportedly closing in on a record-breaking deal for Brazilian forward Kerolin from Manchester City for €1.5m closing in on deal. Liverpool have made an initial approach for Monaco winger Maghnes Akliouche made approach, and Manchester United are exploring the possibility of signing Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga. Arsenal are also interested in Bradley Barcola after missing out on Morgan Rogers to Chelsea retain interest.

Club News and Player Updates

Several clubs have provided updates on player status and team news. Arsenal confirmed that defender William Saliba will be sidelined for an "extended period" due to a back injury. Wolves striker Tolu Arokodare caused a training session to be cancelled after refusing to leave the pitch. In other news, Guillermo Ochoa, a celebrated Mexican goalkeeper, announced his retirement from professional soccer after a 22-year career announced retirement. The FA is charging TNS chairman Harris over an alleged social media post charging chairman, and Rangers are set to appeal a four-match touchline ban issued to manager Derek McInnes appeal ban.

International Football and Tournament Bids

Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger have submitted a joint bid to host the 2032 Africa Cup of Nations. The 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations is set to begin on July 26th, with Morocco hosting. Wrexham's women's team is set to make their debut in the UWCL against FC Pyunik playing in Europe.

Other Sporting Headlines

In cricket, Phil Salt captained Welsh Fire to a six-wicket victory over Southern Brave in The Hundred, ending an eight-match losing streak. However, Southern Brave Women, led by Sophie Molineux's three wickets, secured a comeback win against Welsh Fire Women in their encounter. In darts, Cameron Menzies withdrew from the World Matchplay Darts after becoming unwell on stage and later fainting. AC Milan has unveiled its new away kit, inspired by their Champions League finals against Liverpool, while Manchester United have also revealed their retro-inspired 2026-27 away kit go retro.