Football/Soccer 8-Hour Briefing

Last updated: October 9, 2026, 11:10 PM ET

USMNT

The USMNT's youthful squad made its case during the last international window, with Pochettino's young players standing out even as questions about the starting XI persist. The team rose to the challenge of a physical, feisty Canada side, beating them 1-0 on a late winner from Ellis.

Trinity Rodman

USWNT forward Trinity Rodman said work in camp has helped her become less predictable on the ball, a development she sees as key to her attacking game.

NWSL and Transfers

The NWSL extended the ban of Portland Thorns striker Sophia Wilson after she was found to have pulled a hair, adding an additional match to her suspension. The Chicago Stars signed Zambia international Racheal Kundananji from Bay FC for a fee of $700,000. Meanwhile, Ted Lasso's fourth season draws on the realities of the NWSL, with cast members and league veterans reflecting on its authentic portrayal of the women's game.

Manchester City

Erling Haaland urged his Manchester City teammates to stay positive while the Premier League case continues. Enzo Maresca echoed that sentiment, saying he trusts the club completely, while Maresca also said his players "don't care too much about the noise" around the club. Maresca described the mood within the squad as fantastic.

Real Madrid and José Mourinho

Real Madrid coach José Mourinho joked that he would be lucky to still be in the job when the Manchester City case concludes. Real Madrid are also reportedly interested in former Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay.

Tottenham and Manchester United

Tottenham spent heavily in the summer window while Manchester United held back, setting up a clash of contrasting strategies on Saturday. Xavi Simons enrolled at Harvard, an unusual move for a Tottenham player. Reports also suggest a fee Manchester United could receive for wantaway JJ Gabriel.

Ferguson and Legends

Sir Alex Ferguson declared that Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney were the two best players in Europe during their time at Manchester United.

FIFA and Governance

Gianni Infantino faces a clear path to re-election as FIFA president after Canadian Soccer Association head Victor Montagliani reportedly stepped aside.

Granit Xhaka

Switzerland and Sunderland captain Granit Xhaka received a probation sentence over a fake vaccine document, and he confirmed the ruling on Thursday.

MLS and Harry Kane

MLS commissioner Don Garber said that a Harry Kane move to the league would be a "fulfilment of a dream," following Lionel Messi's arrival.

Boxing

Deontay Wilder could feature on the undercard of the Tyson Fury vs Anthony Joshua fight.

Records

Arsenal teenager Max Dowman added three Guinness World Records to his growing list of achievements.