European football's second-tier club competition, run by UEFA since 1971
Rangers draw 1-1 away at Dundee United as new manager Derek McInnes watches from the touchline. Lachlan Rose gives United the lead; Thelo Aasgaard equalises after the break. Debutants and fresh signings feature, but no winner is found.
Prince William has described his father King Charles as not a football fan while discussing the World Cup and English football culture on the New Heights podcast. He notes England’s World Cup hopes, his own Aston Villa support, and ties to Taylor Swift; the interview touched on stadium sizes and beer culture in the U.S.
The Guardian, Scotsman and Independent report Ange Postecoglou has been appointed Al-Nassr head coach on a two-year deal, aiming to revive his career after a brief, troubled spell at Nottingham Forest. He will work with Cristiano Ronaldo and other stars as the Saudi Pro League champions pursue further success.
Karl Darlow has joined Manchester United on a two-year contract with an option for a third, serving as Senne Lammens’ back-up. The 35-year-old Wales international has left Leeds United after his contract expired and is set to bolster United’s goalkeeping options ahead of the new season.
Manchester United has completed a midfield overhaul after Ederson’s transfer fell through; Andrey Santos has joined on a five-year deal, while Youri Tielemans is in advanced talks. Villa are poised to replace him with Johan Manzambi as talks continue amid broader transfer activity.
Chelsea has appointed Xabi Alonso as manager, vowing to build a competitive team and target European qualification. He emphasizes a unified approach with sporting directors, hints at keeping key players, and signals a long-term plan despite recent instability.
Manchester United have secured Youri Tielemans on a four-year deal after activating a release clause; Andrey Santos has joined from Chelsea in a deal around £48m. Ederson’s move from Atalanta has stalled after a medical, prompting a shift toward younger targets as United recalibrate amid a crowded market.
Scottish clubs Hearts, Rangers, Hibernian and Motherwell will learn their European paths after the draws in Nyon. Rangers face Jagellonia Bialystok in the Europa League third qualifying round; Hearts could meet Benfica if they advance from Sturm Graz; Hibs and Motherwell discover potential third-round opponents in the Conference League. The fixtures are two-legged and scheduled in August, with seedings shaping seeds and matchups.
Hearts trail 4-0 after the first leg in Austria but have moved to strengthen their squad as they bid to overturn the deficit in the second leg. Keeper Schwolow is departing for Mainz while new signings prepare for their Tynecastle bow.
A 47-year-old Manchester official has stepped aside after an illustrious spell officiating 668 professional matches in England and 163 international fixtures, including World Cups and Euros. His final game was Portugal vs Spain in the World Cup last 16. He cites the pressure and scrutiny of elite officiating as the reason for stepping away, with praise from peers and a note of personal sacrifice.