Mourinho is back in the headlines as Real Madrid’s ex‑coach returns, stirring debate about his influence and legacy in modern football.
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 have completed a €125m upfront fee plus €15m in add-ons to sign Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig, making him the club’s sixth summer arrival under Jose Mourinho. The 19-year-old Ivory Coast winger starred at the World Cup and becomes Madrid’s answer to long-term talent priorities.
Mourinho has confirmed his return to Real Madrid for a second spell, a move that reshapes the club’s coaching dynamics and expectations after a trophy-laden first era. The Netflix documentary adds fresh context, recounting a pivotal moment when a Chelsea reunion fell through after Real Madrid’s 2010-13 dominance.
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.
Nine Premier League clubs start the 2026-27 season with new coaches, including Manchester United’s Carrick and Tottenham’s De Zerbi. Arsenal look to defend their title under Arteta as City begin under Enzo Maresca. World Cup fatigue, transfer chatter, and European commitments shape early form and squad strategies.
Arsenal have opened the 2026–27 Premier League season with a 3-0 win over promoted Coventry at the Emirates. Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard have scored as Mikel Arteta’s side have shown refreshed attacking fluency, parading new signing Ezri Konsa and starting with several key players fit together.
Barcelona have strengthened midfield and attack this summer but lack an established number nine. Rodri has joined City, Gordon and Adeyemi add pace, while Alvarez eye remains a potential move; Barça face decision as window closes.
Real Madrid have defeated Malaga 4-0 at the Bernabéu, with Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé starring. Bellingham opened the scoring, Mbappé netted a treble, and Arda Güler completed the rout in added time. Madrid move to nine points from three matches, while Napoli, Freiburg and Schalke also post results across Europe.