German football manager and former player, current head coach (per latest)
Marcus Rashford starts a Premier League game for Manchester United after 20 months away, scoring 30 goals in 2022-23 and returning amid doubt. Maguire says Rashford is back, hungry, and a major asset as United beat Ipswich 5-2. Carrick and others note Rashford’s improved fitness and leadership as the season starts.
Bruno Fernandes bags a hat-trick and an assist as Manchester United overturn a first-half deficit to beat Ipswich 5-2 at Old Trafford. Kobbie Mainoo is hailed by Luke Shaw as world class, while new signing Baleba waits in the wings.
England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina features enforcement of a new rule allowing red cards for players who cover their mouths during verbal confrontations. Paredes questioned Kane’s actions; Hincapié and Almirón were punished earlier in the tournament for similar moves. The IFAB and FIFA have supported the measure, signaling stricter enforcement going forward.
England has beaten France 6-4 in the World Cup third-place match in Miami after Bukayo Saka scored a hat-trick. England led 4-0 at half-time before France rallied with Kylian Mbappé scoring twice to become the all-time World Cup top scorer. Jude Bellingham added England’s final goal to finish the game 6-4.
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.
The BBC has highlighted a funding crisis as licence-fee income declines and audience habits shift. The corporation is exploring options from subscriptions to a universal levy while warning that current funding may not sustain its public-service mission. With 23.3 million licences active and around 80% of households paying, the BBC is under pressure to reinvent its funding model before the 2027 charter renewal.
Spain defeats Argentina 1-0 in the World Cup final with Ferran Torres scoring in extra time. Messi has endured heartbreak at the final and posts an emotional message reflecting on the journey. Argentina ends its title bid after two straight final appearances; Spain becomes the first nation to hold men’s and women’s World Cup titles simultaneously.
England star Jude Bellingham and Germany coach Thomas Tuchel have publicly clashed over performance comments after England’s 2-1 win in the World Cup, with Tuchel insisting there are no issues and both sides stressing their close relationship amid media speculation.
England’s rugby union squad is preparing for a decisive final weekend in Argentina, with players mindful of hostile crowds and the potential repercussions of a football semi-final. Freeman and Pollock are in focus as the team closes its South American tour.
Argentina has overturned England’s lead with a late goal from Lionel Messi to reach the World Cup final; England’s hopes crumble in Atlanta as Argentina’s experience seals the win.
England suffers a 2-1 defeat to Argentina in the semi-final, with late goals from Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez overturning an early lead from Anthony Gordon. England will play the bronze match against France; Kane contemplates the next steps in his international career as the team shifts focus to Nations League.
Argentina has defeated England 2-1, with Messi providing two key assists as Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez score. Argentina eye back-to-back World Cup titles, a feat last achieved by Brazil in 1962. The team now advances to face Spain in the final.
England leads through Anthony Gordon but Argentina nets two late goals to win 2-1 in the World Cup semi-final, ending England's bid for a first final since 1966. Tuchel faces criticism for defensive changes as England's momentum collapses; France looms for third place.
Micah Richards has shared that his father Lincoln died shortly before he went on air for BBC’s World Cup semi-final coverage, choosing to continue presenting. He describes his father as his greatest fan and recalls how the moment shaped his on-air performance during England’s 2-1 loss to Argentina.
Argentina has clinched a dramatic stoppage-time victory over England, but the celebration has sparked a confrontation on the pitch. Barco celebrated near the England bench, and Bellingham is seen slapping Barco before a wider melee ensues. Barco’s celebration follows Enzo Fernandez’s late equaliser, with Argentina securing a 2-1 win after Martinez’s stoppage-time header.
Argentina has reached the World Cup final after Lautaro Martinez’s stoppage-time winner in Atlanta, sparking awe across Buenos Aires. Fans pour into the Obelisk, city streets, and public spaces, while celebrations contrast with lingering online claims of refereeing bias.
Argentina has advanced to the World Cup final after a gripping extra-time win. Messi has delivered decisive moments, setting up late goals and demonstrating why he is widely regarded as one of the game’s greatest. England faces a bronze final as they prepare for a different challenge.
England's World Cup bid ends in a 2-1 semifinal defeat to Argentina in Atlanta. Anthony Gordon's first-half strike put England ahead, but a late Argentine surge secures the win. Tuchel's changes are under scrutiny as England return home with hard questions about their game management and mentality.
Spain has reached the World Cup final after a 2-1 win over France, setting up a final against Argentina. Argentina has secured a dramatic comeback win over England, keeping alive their title defence. The Guardian notes Spain’s control and Porro’s impact, while SBS and The Independent highlight Messi’s form and the tension around the knockout stage.
England has claimed third place after a dramatic 2-0 win over France in the bronze final, capping a tournament that saw changes under Thomas Tuchel and Mbappe's continued form. France finishes in semi-final defeat to Spain; England's best finish since 1966.
England’s World Cup semi-final collapse against Argentina has sparked heavy scrutiny of Tuchel’s tactics after a late Argentina surge. Critics argue the defensive shift backfired and exposed weaknesses, while England’s attackers faced a chastening night. The game leaves Tuchel facing questions about in-game management and strategic choices.
Iranian strikes on Kurdish dissident camps in Iraqi Kurdistan have intensified, with drones, missiles, and air defenses reported. Erbil and nearby bases have faced downed drones and fires, while Iraqi Kurdish authorities condemn the attacks and call on Tehran to stop the escalation. The United States-led coalition is monitoring the developments as violence threatens regional stability.
England has been knocked out of the World Cup with a 2-1 semi-final defeat to Argentina. Thomas Tuchel retains the FA’s backing for now, but there is renewed debate over his future and whether Pep Guardiola could be a replacement if available.
England and France meet in the bronze final in Miami as both teams seek to salvage pride after semifinal defeats. Deschamps and Tuchel acknowledge the consolation nature, while Mbappé and Kane chase individual milestones and potential Golden Boot contention. Prize money and final standings are on the line.
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.
Chelsea has secured Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa for a Premier League record fee, on a six-year deal with an option for a seventh. The England attacker joins amid a busy summer under new manager Xabi Alonso as Chelsea look to rebuild after a 10th-place finish. Rogers is set to form a dynamic partnership with Cole Palmer, with the two England teammates expected to thrive under Alonso’s system.
FIFA has introduced three-minute hydration breaks at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. Wenger has defended the rule but says a post-tournament analysis is underway as reception among fans and coaches remains mixed. The breaks are meant for player welfare, though critics say they disrupt momentum and serve broadcasters.
World number one Littler has reached the World Matchplay semi-finals after defeating Rock; he will face Dirk van Duijvenbode, who eliminated Gary Anderson in a 16-13 thriller. Cameron Menzies has withdrawn, with Ross Smith advancing to face Gerwyn Price.
England has been knocked out of the World Cup semifinal by Argentina, with late goals turning the match 2-1. The coach accepts responsibility for substitutions, while England look to bounce back in the bronze medal match against France.
Spain defeats Argentina in a dramatic final, delivering a standout team performance and concluding a tournament that delivered entertainment and questions about its lasting legacy. The victory underscores Spain’s cohesive style and resilience, while Argentina’s star power could not sustain a late comeback.
England's bid at this World Cup has ended in semi-final heartbreak, with a third-place finish their best since 1966. The Guardian reports on on-pitch moments and off-pitch memes, while BBC Business focuses on fan coping mechanisms as Germany and other teams exit.
Prince Harry has discussed England’s World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina on James Corden’s show, noting a shift in mindset after conceding late goals. Kane reflects on the heartbreak, praising Gareth Southgate’s leadership and vowing to rebuild following a 6-4 bronze-medal win over France. Tuchel defends his substitutions amid mounting criticism.
The Italian Football Federation has been exploring Pep Guardiola’s potential appointment as Italy head coach. While discussions have continued, officials say salary exceptions could be considered, though the final decision remains uncertain. Mancini and Pirlo are among other candidates amid Italy’s World Cup qualification crisis and short-term coaching search.
AI-driven prediction markets have surged during the 2026 World Cup, outpacing traditional sportsbooks. Kalshi leads, with record trading during the tournament, while fans wager through novel formats. The event follows a dramatic semi-final and a controversial banner incident.
The Geopolitics World Cup has dominated headlines, but focus is shifting as Real Madrid, Arsenal and other clubs shape bid plans around Vinícius Junior and Yan Diomande amid ongoing contract talks. The tournament continues to influence transfer chatter and create a miasma of speculation.
Phil Foden has extended his Manchester City contract until 2030 with an option to 2031, amid a renaissance under Enzo Maresca. The winger/attacker has become City’s most decorated player, and the deal signals confidence in a new era after Pep Guardiola’s departure. Maresca is reuniting with Foden as the club plans to reclaim dominance in domestic and European competitions.
Dinamo Zagreb have defeated FC Kauno Žalgiris 5-0 in the Croatian capital, with McKenna scoring and helping Zagreb solidify their lead in the tie. The 29-year-old defender, who has been linked with Rangers, has featured prominently in Europe this season as Zagreb push towards the play-off round.
Manchester City’s new manager Enzo Maresca faces a midfield puzzle as Rodri undergoes back surgery, with questions over his return and possible moves in a window that also sees new signings like Elliot Anderson and cautious talk around James Trafford and Jack Grealish.
Newcastle United has appointed Matthias Jaissle as head coach to succeed Eddie Howe. Jaissle, 38, arrives from Al Ahli with a track record of high‑intensity, attacking football and a trophy‑laden spell in Asia. The club aims to rebuild after a difficult 2025-26 season and a flurry of summer departures.
Inter are pursuing England defender John Stones after the World Cup, with Stones now seen as Inter’s leading option to bolster their backline. City’s stance and Premier League interests could still influence the deal.
The Argentinian Football Association has designated 15 July as National Football Teams Day, commemorating the 2-1 World Cup semi-final win over England in Atlanta. FIFA is investigating a banner displayed after the match and related incidents. The move follows intense football diplomacy surrounding the Falkland Islands dispute.
Ivan Toney has been charged with assault causing actual bodily harm in relation to an alleged incident on Wardour Street in London on 6 December last year. He will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 24 September. He plays for Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia and recently featured for England at the World Cup. This is developing with updates expected.
The SPFL has launched a new live domestic streaming service, SPFL Player, allowing fans to watch William Hill Championship, League 1 and 2 matches outside blocked hours on a pay-per-view basis. Subscriptions and single-match passes are available, with revenue returning to clubs. The rollout begins with all League 1 and 2 matches on 15 August and will extend to eligible Championship games later.
Arsenal are exploring a deal for Bayer Leverkusen’s versatile defender Quansah, who can play centre-back and right-back. Talks are at an exploratory stage; Villa and Leverkusen hold valuations around €50m-€60m. Arsenal are also weighing Konsa as a potential option, while other targets and loan concerns shape their window strategy.
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.
Trent Alexander-Arnold has opened a new chapter with Real Madrid after leaving Liverpool, telling the Mirror that the booing there hurts but that he understands fan disappointment. He stresses he remains committed to his club and his international hopes, while acknowledging the online abuse surrounding his transfer has a darker side.
Manchester City have beaten Crystal Palace 4-1 at Selhurst Park, with Rayan Cherki scoring twice and Erling Haaland also on target as Enzo Maresca’s new era gathers momentum. Haaland, Cherki and Foden link with a fluid attack, while Palace’s struggles in the final third persist.