Thomas Tuchel is in the news as England’s coach, with squad tweaks ahead of the World Cup and contract extension to 2028. Bio: German manager, born 1973.
Andy Burnham is contesting Makerfield in a by-election triggered by Josh Simons’ departure. Polls show a tight race with Reform UK’s Robert Kenyon; Restore Britain’s Rebecca Shepherd is a potential spoiler. Burnham signals a bid to lead Labour and possibly challenge Sir Keir Starmer, arguing for greater public control and devolution.
Mexico has opened the 2026 World Cup with a 2-0 win over South Africa at Azteca Stadium while protests over teachers’ pay, missing people and social spending have erupted across Mexico City. Demonstrators have clashed with police outside the stadium, toppled World Cup statues and blocked key roads as authorities deploy large security forces.
England has been training in North America ahead of the World Cup, with Tuchel pushing acclimation and squad rotation as players brace for extreme heat. The team has played warm-up games and faced questions about climate, fitness, and tactical readiness while others on the continent monitor the event closely.
England's coach Thomas Tuchel has announced a 35-man squad for upcoming friendlies against Uruguay and Japan, including returning players Harry Maguire and Kobbie Mainoo, as part of preparations for the 2026 World Cup. Notably, Trent Alexander-Arnold is excluded.
Los Angeles has sold over a million tickets for the 2028 Olympics, with many local residents frustrated by high prices, fees, and limited affordable options. The initial presale included $28 tickets, but demand has driven prices and fees higher, causing disappointment and technical issues among buyers.
Saudi Arabia has appointed Greek coach Georgios Donis to lead their national team for the 2026 World Cup, replacing Hervé Renard. Donis, who has extensive experience in Saudi football, will oversee preparations for the tournament, which begins in June. The team is in Group H with Spain, Uruguay, and Cape Verde.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has named a 26-man World Cup squad that has omitted Manchester United defender Harry Maguire and several high-profile players including Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Luke Shaw, while Ivan Toney and younger players have been selected; Tuchel has defended the choices as team-focused. (As of 28 May 2026.)
Southampton’s head coach Tonda Eckert is under FA investigation after a League Arbitration Panel found the club engaged in a “contrived and determined plan” to spy on opponents during the Championship playoffs. Owner Dragan Solak backs Eckert as the club pursues promotion back to the Premier League.
National Energy System Operator has analysed demand, predicting England and Scotland could see 600 MW increases during group-stage matches. The surge is linked to TVs, devices and in-game halftimes, with Scotland’s late-night kickoff adding to household activity.