Dutch football icon, innovator of Total Football
Manchester United has seen a disastrous start to the season, with only two wins in ten games. Carrick has faced intense scrutiny over his role, and an expanding injury list threatens to derail plans for the Champions League match against Como. The club stresses readiness, while players like Martinez, Shaw, Mainoo and Rashford are ruled out. The situation threatens long-term stability at Old Trafford.
Franco Baresi has died at 66. The AC Milan legend spent 20 seasons with the club, captained Milan for 15 years, and led a era-defining defence that helped win six Serie A titles and three European Cups. Tributes have poured in from Milan, former teammates and world leaders.
Xavi has been appointed head coach of the Netherlands through 2030, succeeding Ronald Koeman after a World Cup exit. The former Barca midfielder says he is honoured and will implement a Dutch-style attack based on possession.
Lionel Messi has helped Inter Miami win the Campeones Cup with a 2-0 victory over Cruz Azul, sealing the club’s first Campeones Cup trophy and adding another trophy to Messi’s MLS era. Casemiro’s late header secures the win after Messi’s early headed goal; the ceremony also marks new coach Cristian Gonzalez’s first game in charge.