Jose Mourinho—current Real Madrid coach (as of Aug 2026) whose career has spanned Porto, Chelsea, Inter, Madrid, United, Tottenham, Roma, and beyond. Noted for title-winning stints and high-profile, controversial leadership.
Mourinho has confirmed he agreed to replace Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United in 2013, then chose Chelsea instead. Netflix’s documentary reveals Ferguson’s account of the phone call that led to a dramatic reversal, reshaping United’s post-Ferguson era and the club’s future coaching choices.
A three-part Netflix series on Jose Mourinho examines a career marked by spectacular highs and ferocious rivalries. While the director highlights personal vulnerability, reviewers say the documentary covers only part of Mourinho’s story, leaving tactical details and early life largely unexplored.
Spain has named its 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup, with Lamine Yamal as a star presence. For the first time since 1950, no Real Madrid player features as Dean Huijsen is injured and Dani Carvajal is left out. Mikel Merino has returned from injury, and Yamal faces a potential hamstring issue ahead of the tournament.
Crystal Palace has appointed Pierre Sage as head coach after Oliver Glasner’s departure. Sage signs a three-year deal, aiming to continue Palace’s winning approach as they enter another European campaign.
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.
Spain has won the World Cup final 1-0 in extra time against Argentina with Ferran Torres scoring in the 106th minute. Spain controlled the game with patient build-up and defensive solidity, while Argentina failed to threaten until late. The victory follows Spain’s sustained possession-based style under coach Luis de la Fuente.
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.
The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations is underway in Morocco with 16 teams, 34 matches, and a new qualification tie to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Morocco hosts; Nigeria defends the title as several debutants join the field. Kick-off times start at 17:00 GMT across venues, with the final on Aug. 16.
Littler has defended his Betfred World Matchplay title with an 18-9 victory over Gerwyn Price in Blackpool. He has set a final average of 111.53 and a tournament average of 111.04, breaking Phil Taylor’s previous marks. The 19-year-old remains on track for a calendar-year haul of major titles, while Netflix has announced a reality darts show launching later this year.
Messi has returned to the field for Inter Miami amid weather delays, scoring and assisting in a Leagues Cup clash. The club remains unbeaten in eight matches, with Messi’s form continuing after the World Cup final. Other MLS actions see Suarez and Mendez scoring in Columbus’ draw as the league contends with scheduling and player welfare.
Vinicius Jr is at the center of renewed contract negotiations with Real Madrid as Arsenal watch for a potential bid. Real Madrid is seeking to renew terms before the transfer window closes; Arsenal is prepared to accelerate if talks stall. Other clubs are weighing interest as Vinicius weighs his future.
Real Madrid has agreed a seven-year contract for Yan Diomande, the 19-year-old Ivory Coast winger from RB Leipzig, in a deal that could exceed €125m plus €15m in add-ons. The move, which places Madrid ahead of PSG and Liverpool, caps a rapid rise for the teenager after a standout World Cup and Bundesliga season.