Football/Soccer 8 Hours

Last updated: August 7, 2026, 9:20 PM ET

USMNT & USWNT

U.S. women’s coach Emma Hayes said she is “delighted” that Mauricio Pochettino has signed a new deal to remain the U.S. men’s team coach for another four years. Hayes also urged US Soccer to prioritize the U.S. Under-20 Women’s national team at this year’s World Cup, emphasizing the need to improve youth development to match top European programs. In MLS, former Mexico star Hirving “Chucky” Lozano has joined the LA Galaxy on an initial loan deal through the end of the 2026 season from San Diego FC, the clubs announced Friday, with the move being Lozano’s return to LA. Meanwhile, the San Jose Earthquakes have hired former Portland Timbers executive Gavin Wilkinson as a consultant, despite him being fired in 2022 following the Yates Report on NWSL abuse. The summer transfer window has also seen several U.S. players find new homes, with detailed USMNT transfer grades now available. On the international scene, Argentina will not pressure Lionel Messi to play at the 2028 Copa América, choosing to let their superstar decide when he wants to compete.

Transfer Market

Liverpool are set to sign defender Ronald Araújo on a season-long loan from Barcelona, a deal that has surprised many, with Sky Sports also confirming the surprise agreement. Manchester City are reportedly exploring a move for Enzo Fernández as a potential Rodri replacement, while Arsenal could battle Manchester United for Pio Esposito, according to the latest transfer gossip. In other moves, Real Madrid have loaned Franco Mastantuono to Fiorentina for the season, as the clubs confirmed the deal, and Madrid also splashed out to add World Cup star Yan Diomande to an already star-studded attack, explaining why they spent big. Meanwhile, Vinícius Júnior ended weeks of speculation by signing a new six-year contract with Real Madrid, turning down a blockbuster move to Arsenal. Arsenal are also reportedly looking to hijack Liverpool’s move for Bradley Barcola, as transfer rumors swirl. Coventry City have completed a club-record signing of Ghana midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi for a reported £26m, with the deal confirmed, and Sky Sports also detailed the £26m move. Across the Premier League and EFL, a full list of all done deals in August 2026 is now available, while Fulham saw new signings García and Palacios make losing debuts in a defeat to Crystal Palace.

Carabao Cup & Match Results

Will Lankshear’s debut goal secured a 1-0 win for Middlesbrough over Wrexham in the Carabao Cup first round, with the strike proving decisive. That result was part of a wider round that also saw Wolves and Stevenage progress, as detailed in the roundup.

Club Football & European Scene

As players return from World Cup duty, several elite clubs are battling burnout from the tournament, with Arsenal, Liverpool and Bayern Munich among those affected. For fans looking to dive deeper into European club football, Bill Connelly’s 10-step guide to the 2026-27 season is a must-read. In Scotland, the title race is already showing early troubles for hopefuls, with the Premiership preview suggesting the winner may again be the best of a bad bunch.

Off-Pitch & Other Football News

The World Cup may be over, but the stardom of goalkeeper Vozinha and Mohamed Salah continues with amazing transfer unveilings. UEFA has confirmed it is aware of an allegation that it paid off an alleged mistress of Gianni Infantino while he worked for the governing body, as reported by Sky Sports. Meanwhile, the president of Norway’s soccer federation has called on Infantino to resign, saying there is “no trust” in him, even as Mexico and Argentina have expressed their support for the FIFA president.

In Other Sports

Leeds Rhinos underlined their Super League title credentials with a thrilling 24-22 comeback win over Wakefield, with Chris Hankinson scoring the converted try to cap the victory. On the golf course, Charley Hull surged up the leaderboard at the PIF London Championship after a brilliant course-record 62 in the second round at the Centurion Club.