English footballer, Chelsea right-back, England captain
European federations have threatened to boycott FIFA competitions over Infantino’s proposals, with Uefa testing the stance as the Fifa Under-20 Women’s World Cup approaches. The dispute risks cascading into women’s and youth tournaments.
Players linked to FIFA’s Players’ Voice panel have issued a united statement calling for structural reform at FIFA amid Infantino’s private-investor plan for the World Cup. The move follows mounting backlash from confederations and several national bodies. The signatories urge a real voice for players and fans in how football is run.
Fernandes has broken the Premier League assists record with 21 assists and scored nine goals as Manchester United finish third. Shaw has top-scored for City with 21 goals as they win the Women’s Super League. The awards are decided by the Football Writers’ Association and PFA, with additional honours for players across Arsenal, City and United. The teams also celebrate multiple winners and a host of youth awards.
Former players on FIFA’s leadership are urging structural reforms, arguing current governance has drifted from its core values. The call comes amid the backlash to Gianni Infantino’s plan to sell World Cup rights to private investors, with players and fans seeking a real say in how football is run.
Liverpool’s new manager Andoni Iraola is guiding his forwards in a high-press, high-output system as they host Nottingham Forest. The squad has added Barcola and Muñoz to strengthen the frontline, while debate rages over midfield balance and defensive solidity after a mixed pre-season. The weekend fixtures set the scene for a consequential start to the season.
Arsenal have beaten Chelsea in a London derby as Mikel Arteta’s side show resilience after a 2-1 win at the Emirates. Chelsea, despite strong attacking moments, are struggling defensively and still adjusting under Xabi Alonso. The result underscores a widening gap between the two clubs early in the season.
England manager Sarina Wiegman has left Ella Toone and Chloe Kelly out of a playoff squad, saying their levels on the pitch have not matched expectations. She still believes in them and says they can do better, while naming Lexi Potter and Freya Godfrey among new call-ups ahead of October’s World Cup qualifying playoff vs Greece.
England faces a two-leg playoff against Greece to reach next year’s World Cup in Brazil. The head coach has called up Ella Toone after leaving her out of the initial squad, a decision tied to current form. Lucy Bronze has sustained a small injury and has returned to Chelsea, while Toone has stated she will use the setback as motivation.
England has delivered a clinical display in Leicester, extending the aggregate lead over Greece to 8-1 as Alessia Russo, Georgia Stanway and Lauren James star. England control the tie ahead of the second leg, with Russo netting a third goal and Stanway adding more ruthlessness in front of goal.
England manager Sarina Wiegman has extended her contract to lead the Lionesses through the Euro 2029 cycle, with the World Cup in Brazil looming next year. The extensions come as England pursue a World Cup playoff against Ukraine and aim to build on consecutive European titles.
Tottenham have moved off the bottom of the Premier League table after a 3-1 win over Coventry at home. James Maddison marks his return with a stunning goal, Omar Marmoush nets his first for the club, and Dejan Kulusevski returns from injury as Spurs show signs of improvement under Roberto De Zerbi. Chelsea’s troubles continue with a loss at Stamford Bridge.
The Guardian, New York Times and BBC report that Alexia Putellas has won the Ballon d’Or Feminin for a third time, becoming the only player to achieve the feat and the first from a Women’s Super League club. Barcelona’s dominance is highlighted, with Pajor as runner-up and Shaw in third. The ceremony also notes Spain’s continued dominance in the women’s game and the broader debate on equality in the awards process.