Real Madrid & Barcelona News

Real Madrid Tie Down Tchouaméni to 2031 With Mourinho’s Backing

Aurélien Tchouaméni has committed his future to Real Madrid until 2031, with Mourinho's arrival credited as a key factor in sealing the renewal. The post Real Madrid Tie Down Tchouaméni to 2031 With Mourinho’s Backing appeared first on Football España.

Hey Jude: Bellingham's return to England indispensability

Senior football correspondent Sami Mokbel charts Jude Bellingham's remarkable resurgence with England at the World Cup.

Thiago Pitarch focused on Real Madrid future after breakthrough year

DENBIGH, WALES - JULY 04: Thiago Pitarch of Spain during the UEFA European Under-19 Championship 2026 match between Spain and Germany on July 04, 2026 in Denbigh, Wales. (Photo by James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images) | Getty Images Real Madrid midfielder Thiago Pitarch has reflected on his rapid rise through the club’s ranks, his experiences training alongside the first team, and his ambitions for the future in an interview with AS. After progressing from Juvenil A to Castilla and earning opportunities to train with the senior squad, Pitarch said he has tried to remain grounded throughout his development. “I started with the Juvenil A team and thought, ‘I’ll see how it goes.’ Then I started playing well with Castilla and later I began training with the first team. I’ve taken it all very calmly. I still surround myself with the same people. The only thing that matters to me is enjoying playing football.” The midfielder admitted that adapting to the level at Real Madrid is a challenge, but believes every opportunity is a chance to grow. “At Real Madrid, the best players in the world play, and you have to adapt. The important thing there was to enjoy every match and learn a lot from them because you never know when it might be your last.” Pitarch also praised coach Álvaro Arbeloa and national team coach Gallardo for the confidence they have shown in him. “I have a very good relationship with both Arbeloa and Gallardo. They’ve given me all the confidence they could, and I try to repay that on the field. It’s very important for a player to have so much confidence in his coaches.” Asked about speculation surrounding his future under José Mourinho, Pitarch insisted his attention remains solely on Spain’s upcoming European Championship final. “Mourinho has not contacted me yet. I’m focused on the European Championship final and that’s all I’m thinking about. We’ll see what happens after that.” Although he has received messages of support from Real Madrid, he revealed he is trying not to be distracted. “I’ve spoken to several people at the club who wished me luck in the final, but honestly, I’m not really checking my phone. I’m really enjoying the experience with my teammates because you never know when you’ll get another chance like this.” Despite acknowledging the fierce competition for places at the Santiago Bernabéu, Pitarch believes the academy continues to prepare players to step up whenever they are called upon. “The best players in the world play for Real Madrid, which makes it harder to break into the first team, but we’re proving that when we get the chance, we’re ready. That’s why they train us in the youth academy, to help the first team.” The 18-year-old also named the midfielders who have inspired his game, highlighting two club legends as well as one current Madrid star. “I’ve always admired quality midfielders like Kroos and Modric, and the midfielders of Iniesta’s Spain. Now I really like Bellingham.” Training alongside Real Madrid’s biggest names was initially overwhelming, he admitted, before becoming part of his daily routine. “The first few days with the Real Madrid stars are a bit dazzling; it feels like you’re wearing virtual reality glasses. But little by little you get used to it and it becomes second nature.” Pitarch reserved special praise for the first-team players who welcomed him, singling out several Spaniards and particularly Brahim Díaz. “Everyone, I have no complaints about anyone. They’re all exceptional teammates. In the first few days, the Spaniards like Carvajal, Brahim, and Carreras were very attentive. Brahim helped me a lot from day one, and he’s a teammate I talk to quite often.” Looking ahead, the midfielder’s objectives are clear: stay healthy, continue playing at the highest level, and keep competing in Europe’s biggest competition. “My priority is to avoid injury. I also want to continue enjoying playing football in the top division and, if possible, keep playing in the Champions League.”

Football's best bromance: Why Bellingham and Haaland break the mould

The two players have won an army of admirers from social media clips for their honesty in interviews.

OPEN THREAD | JULY 10, 2026

Welcome to The Daily Merengue! THESE ARE YOUR MODS: Ezek XI, Valyrian Steel, KungFuZizou, NeRObutBlanco, Felipejack, and Juninho FRANCE Another world cup semi final. 3 semi’s in a row. whomever will take over from deschamps has an uphill battle to climb. BELGIUM I’m hoping they progress today ARGENTINA I’ll reserve my comments on them

Real Madrid to face Fiorentina on August 1st

Real Madrid have published a statement on their website announcing that they will face Fiorentina on August 1st in what will be one of the team’s preseason games. Real Madrid will play a friendly match against Fiorentina on Saturday, August 1, at 6:00 pm CEST. The match will take place at the Wörthersee Stadion in Klagenfurt (Austria), a stadium with a capacity for 30,000 spectators and home to SK Austria Klagenfurt. Real Madrid has already visited this Austrian city, located in the southern part of the country near the border with Slovenia, during the 2021 preseason to face Milan. The team returns to Austria a year after defeating WSG Tirol in Innsbruck last summer in another friendly. Tickets will go on sale on Wednesday, July 15. Source: Realmadrid.com Los Blancos will also face Deportivo La Coruña on August 12th, and they should be announcing a few more preseason games shortly.

Liverpool latest: Klopp lifts lid on failed Mbappe pursuit

France’s attacking evolution under Didier Deschamps passes latest Morocco test | Raphaël Jucobin

With the head coach having released the handbrake, his side were far superior compared with four years ago in Qatar against the same opponents The scorelines may have been exactly the same, but the stylistic gulf in France’s two World Cup knockout performances against Morocco could not have been greater. In the space of just a single tournament cycle, Didier Deschamps has embraced a vastly different style, one based on a freeform attacking line. As a one-two punch from Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé sent the team into this year’s semi-finals, the 57-year-old’s tactical reinvention was once again vindicated. Continue reading...

Mbappe mirrors Messi magic as World Cup's greatest storyline rolls on

This summer's World Cup has been one of the most fascinating on the pitch in recent memory. Not because of the teams. Because of two men.

'Absolute perfection!' Mbappe fires France ahead against Morocco

All the angles of Kylian Mbappe's opener for France against Morocco in the 2026 World Cup.

France national team uses ICE deportation planes for World Cup travel

The plane that French team used after match with Paraguay flew 44 deportation-related flights this year alone The French men’s national soccer team, whose star Kylian Mbappé is one of the world’s most outspoken athletes against far-right politicians, has been using a charter airplane company that is at the heart of the Trump administration’s mass deportation campaign. Images of the team posted on social media and flight tracking data show the French team have used Global Crossing Airlines (GlobalX) for at least three domestic flights between their World Cup games and base camp in Boston. That same airline charter company has operated more than half of ICE’s removal flights in 2024 and 2025. Continue reading...

Why Kane is safe from missing World Cup semi... but Bellingham is NOT

Sky Sports' Dave Reed explains which FOUR England players need to watch their step in the World Cup quarter-final against Norway and why one of them is NOT captain Harry Kane.

OFFICIAL: Real Madrid reject comments by Paraguayan senator against Mbappé

Real Madrid have published an official statement rejecting the comments made by Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla against their star Kylian Mbappé. Real Madrid C. F. wishes to express its strongest rejection of the regrettable racist and xenophobic remarks made by Paraguayan senator Celeste Amarilla against our player Kylian Mbappé. Our club firmly condemns such statements, which are unbecoming of a political representative, and expresses its full support for our player Kylian Mbappé, who serves as a role model for millions of people, especially children around the world. These behaviors that incite hatred should have no place in society. Football and sports are platforms for equality and solidarity, and Real Madrid will continue to work to ensure that racism, xenophobia, and violence are eradicated forever. Mbappé and the French national team will face Morocco in the FIFA World Cup Quarterfinals this Thursday.

Benitez refuses to rule out Scotland interest - gossip

Rangers linked with midfielders in Norway and Serbia and would former Liverpool and Real Madrid manager be interested in Scotland job?

Shades of Keane and Gerrard in Bellingham display - Rooney

Wayne Rooney believes Jude Bellingham's performance against Mexico ranks alongside iconic Steven Gerrard and Roy Keane displays

Managing Madrid Podcast: REACTION: A Terrible Portugal Are Eliminated From The World Cup. PLUS: Jude Bellingham Greatness

AUDIO: View Link VIDEO: On this episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani reacts to Portugal getting eliminated from the 2026 World Cup against Spain. Also: – Robert Martinez’s cowardly tactics – Jude Bellingham’s greatness – And much more. Did you enjoy this podcast? Get a ton of bonus content exclusively on Patreon.com/ManagingMadrid. The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Kiyan Sobhani (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@KiyanSo⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠)

Mbappe condemns racist remarks made by Paraguayan senator

Kylian Mbappe has described a Paraguayan politician as "despicable" and unworthy of her position after she made several racist remarks toward the France star.

Mbappe condemns racist posts from Paraguay senator

France forward Kylian Mbappe condemns a Paraguayan senator as "despicable" and unworthy of her position after she made a number of racist remarks mocking his origin and education.

Jude's attitude can never be questioned again after colossal Mexico display

There aren't enough superlatives to describe what Jude Bellingham produced in the cauldron that was the Azteca.

Three Lions roar at alti-Jude! Bellingham and Kane send 10-man England to QFs after thriller

England are through to the World Cup quarter-finals after earning one of their greatest knockout results by eliminating co-hosts Mexico with a gutsy 3-2 victory in an extraordinary tie at the Azteca.

Ageing Brazil need major surgery - but is Ancelotti the man to do it?

There was nothing unlucky about Brazil's loss to Norway in the last 16 of the World Cup and their exit at this stage is an unmitigated disaster, writes Tim Vickery.

Manchester United target Andrey Santos but Chelsea value midfielder at £50m

Newcastle also linked with £50m-rated Brazilian Chelsea need to sell to help Xabi Alonso rebuild squad Manchester United are targeting the Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos, who is valued in the region of £50m. Talks are yet to take place between the two clubs but an offer is anticipated. After missing out on Elliot Anderson and Mateus Fernandes, United were forced to look elsewhere as they seek to rebuild their midfield under Michael Carrick, with Bournemouth’s Alex Scott also of interest to the club’s hierarchy. The Brazilian is behind Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández at Stamford Bridge and the Blues need to bring in funds in order to aide new head coach Xabi Alonso’s ambitions to strengthen. Continue reading...

France overcome resolute Paraguay to reach quarter-final

World Cup favourites France book their quarter-final place thanks to Kylian Mbappe's second-half penalty against a stubborn Paraguay side in Philadelphia.

Ancelotti: No such thing as 'anti-Haaland' plan for Brazil

Mbappe scores again to send France past stubborn Paraguay

Kylian Mbappe's 70th-minute penalty gave France a 1-0 victory over Paraguay in an ill-tempered World Cup last-16 tie in Philadelphia to set up a quarter-final meeting with Morocco.

Mbappe coolly fires France into lead from penalty spot

France's Kylian Mbappe keeps his cool to send Paraguay goalkeeper Orlando Gill the wrong way to score his seventh goal of the 2026 World Cup.

Premier League quartet want Scott - Sunday's gossip

Bournemouth's Alex Scott wanted by Premier League quartet, Arsenal agree to sell Leandro Trossard, Manchester United's Kobbie Mainoo on Real Madrid's radar, plus more.

Mbappe leads star-studded France into World Cup clash with Paraguay LIVE!

Golden Boot race: Kane keeping pace with Messi, Mbappe and Haaland

Lionel Messi has retaken the lead in the race for the Golden Boot at the 2026 World Cup.

World Cup 2026 power rankings: undisputed No 1, co-hosts surge and giants fall

We assess the standing of the nations who played in the tournament’s last 32 before the next round of games begins Les Bleus look unstoppable – all six of our judges ranked them No 1. Sweden did their best to cope with the French front four but were blown away by the slickest operation in town. Even when an opponent is feeling comfortable, Michael Olise or Kylian Mbappé can produce genius without notice, ripping apart the best-organised defences. “I did say that I wanted to enjoy this World Cup to the fullest,” Mbappé told reporters after the Sweden game. It is hard to imagine the fun stopping any time soon. Continue reading...

WORLD CUP ER | OPEN THREAD | JULY 3RD, 2026

Welcome to The Daily Merengue! THESE ARE YOUR MODS: Ezek XI, Valyrian Steel, KungFuZizou, NeRObutBlanco, Felipejack, and Juninho NEW LIFE With a potential Camavinga exit, does this mean Arda gets new life. Especially if Mourinho is planning on using his classic 4-2-3-1, restoring the #10/CAM role back to football again. there’s nobody i’d want there other than Guler. SPAIN UNFORTUNATELY!! they’re through again…. ARGENTINA’s EXIT LOADING…..

José Mourinho will have some key players from the start of pre-season

Real Madrid head coach José Mourinho appeared on the ‘Beast Mode On’ podcast recently and jokingly suggested that he would like all of his Real Madrid players to be eliminated quickly from the World Cup, so that they can have a full pre-season. In reality, his manifestation has come true, even if partially. Among Real Madrid players, Arda Güler and Fede Valverde were knocked out in the group stage. Antonio Rüdiger and Denzel Dumfries were knocked out in the round of 32. Real Madrid’s pre-season is scheduled to start in the second week of July. The first LaLiga fixture is scheduled for mid-August. The players who are still in the World Cup, such as Jude Bellingham, Brahim Diaz, Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr., and Endrick – are expected to have extended holidays to decompress after the World Cup. Mourinho should get players like Álvaro Carreras, Raúl Asencio, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Eduardo Camavinga, Güler, Valverde, Rüdiger, Dumfries, and Franco Mastantuono to start his pre-season camp.

WORLD CUP ER | OPEN THREAD | JULY 2ND, 2026

Welcome to The Daily Merengue! THESE ARE YOUR MODS: Ezek XI, Valyrian Steel, KungFuZizou, NeRObutBlanco, Felipejack, and Juninho IMAGINE Imagine Mbappe being a 2 time world cup champion. Or CR7 finally lifting the trophy for his nation. IMAGINE II Imagine Argentina crashing out of the world cup. Along with Spain and Brazil. NO MORE IMAGINATIONS Let it be real.

Who am I? (Quiz 6)

Quiz 6: Who am I? I am a former Real Madrid player I am not Spanish I am a midfielder I have won more than three Champions League titles I have played with Cristiano Ronaldo, Pepe and Neymar Jr. I have scored in El Clasico I have scored in the World Cup of 2016 This is Managing Madrid’s World Cup trivia series: Who am I? Throughout the tournament this summer, we’ll challenge our readers to identify former and current Real Madrid players who are competing or coaching at the greatest show on earth, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico in 2026. Answer to Quiz 5 Mateo Kovacic. He won the Champions League for Real Madrid and Chelsea. He has won the Premier League with Man City. He has played with Cristiano Ronaldo at Madrid, Gonzalo Higuain at Chelsea, and Antonio Cassano at Inter. He is playing in his fourth World Cup with Croatia this year.

45 minutes from Brazil 'humiliation' - but 'Crafty Carlo' does it again

Half-time in Houston and Brazil's players trudged off facing another early World Cup exit. But we should have known better than to doubt Carlo Ancelotti.

Camavinga Valued at €60m by Madrid Despite Player’s Desire to Stay

Real Madrid have set a €60m asking price for Eduardo Camavinga this summer, even as the midfielder publicly insists he wants to remain at the Bernabéu. The post Camavinga Valued at €60m by Madrid Despite Player’s Desire to Stay appeared first on Football España.

How the new Brazil is taking shape and why Cunha is key

Former Brazil midfielder Lucas Leiva explains why Manchester United striker Matheus Cunha is so important to Brazil's adaptable system under Carlo Ancelotti.

How Bellingham became Tuchel's most important player

His starting place was the subject of much debate in Thomas Tuchel's England team, but Jude Bellingham has become integral to the manager's style of play.

Ceballos Waives Final Year of Wages to Exit Real Madrid a Year Early

Dani Ceballos has surrendered his final year of salary to leave Real Madrid by mutual agreement, freeing up wages as Mourinho reshapes the squad. The post Ceballos Waives Final Year of Wages to Exit Real Madrid a Year Early appeared first on Football España.

World Cup player ratings: Bellingham and Rashford spark England against Panama

Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford shone for Thomas Tuchel but José Luis Rodríguez was always a handful too Jordan Pickford Solid save to deny José Luis Rodríguez. Still doesn’t inspire confidence when he charges out of goal. 6 Continue reading...

'Huge relief' - Bellingham puts England ahead against Panama

Jude Bellingham does enough to get just ahead of his defender and poke the ball home from Bukayo's Saka corner and put England ahead against Panama.

Managing Madrid Podcast: What’s Going On With The Nico Paz Situation?

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - JUNE 16: Nico Paz of Argentina during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J match between Argentina and Algeria at Kansas City Stadium on June 16, 2026 in Kansas City, United States. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images) | Getty Images On this Members-only episode of the Managing Madrid Podcast, Kiyan Sobhani and Lucas Navarrete discuss: What is the most likely outcome for Julian Alvarez? Explaining the Nico Paz situation Can Nico play deeper? Schlotterbeck of Bastoni? Thoughts on new World Cup rule changes And more. CLICK HERE FOR ACCESS Thanks for being a Member. We hope you enjoy the show! The site is run by a small team that works tirelessly around the clock to make it into what it is today. Your contributions will allow us to continue to have a real and full-time presence in keeping this website, and it’s podcasts, going. Hosts this week: Kiyan Sobhani (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@KiyanSo⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) Lucas Navarrete (@LucasNavarreteM)

Nico Páz Set to Return to Madrid as €9m Buyback Clause Is Activated

Real Madrid are set to exercise their €9m buyback clause for Nico Páz, returning the Argentine midfielder from Como ahead of the 2026-27 season. The post Nico Páz Set to Return to Madrid as €9m Buyback Clause Is Activated appeared first on Football España.

Messi, Mbappe, Haaland & Vinicius Jr set blistering pace - but Kane lags behind in Golden Boot race

Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Vinicius Junior have kept up the pace in what is shaping up to be one of the most hotly contested World Cup Golden Boot battles in memory.

Vinicius Jr stops fun and leaves Scots down... but are they out?

Scotland's party stops at the hands of Brazil in Miami, but might they still find themselves in the last 32?

Scotland’s World Cup dream hanging by a thread after Vinícius sparks Brazil victory

Scotland will now play the waiting game. The trouble is, as they hang around to discover whether a place in the last 32 can be secured as among the leading eight third placed teams in this World Cup, it is legitimate to question the point of it all. Scotland’s on field contribution to this tournament has been pitiful. Defeat to Brazil can and should happen. The ragged nature of Scotland’s output in Miami, the utterly punchless nature of their play – again – until desperation set in means they should enter the knockout phase with red faces should that come to pass. Steve Clarke’s men have been outscored by Haiti in Group C plus New Zealand, Iran and Cape Verde elsewhere. Continue reading...

Vinicius Jr pounces on Scotland mistake to give Brazil early lead

Brazil forward Vinicius Junior pounces on a mistake by the Scotland defence to give his side an early lead in their World Cup Group C match in Miami.

Why Bellingham was not sent off for covering his mouth

England midfielder Jude Bellingham was not shown a red card despite covering his mouth while talking to Ghana's Jordan Ayew.

Ancelotti's quest to end Brazil's 24-year wait for World Cup glory

BBC Scotland's Andy Burke looks at Carlo Ancelotti and his mission at Brazil before their final Group C game against Scotland.

Silly tackle, bad reaction - Tuchel defends Bellingham after Queiroz row

England manager Thomas Tuchel defends Jude Bellingham after the midfielder is involved in a heated row with Ghana boss Carlos Queiroz.

Messi, Mbappe and Haaland set blistering pace - will Kane join Golden Boot party?

Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland have kept up the pace in what is shaping up to be one of the most hotly-contested World Cup Golden Boot battles in memory.

World Cup 2026: Messi makes history; Mbappé and Haaland double up; England face Ghana – live

⚽ All the latest news from day 13 of the tournament ⚽ Player guide | Bracketology | Golden Boot | Mail us Our man in the camp David Hytner goes under the hood (nailed it) of England’s preparations for the Black Stars. Thomas Tuchel shares his view on what Ghana will bring in Foxborough: “I expect more ball possession. I expect Ghana to rely on counterattacks because they are very physical, very fast and dangerous.” Continue reading...

'Simply stunning' - Mbappe opens the scoring against Iraq

Kylian Mbappe puts France 1-0 up against Iraq with a powerful strike from outside the box.

'Simply stunning' - Mbappe opens the scoring against Iraq

Kylian Mbappe puts France 1-0 up against Iraq with a powerful strike from outside the box.

Mourinho reshapes Real Madrid recruitment with Dias and Fernandez targets

Jose Mourinho holds primary control over Real Madrid recruitment this summer, with Ruben Dias and Enzo Fernandez topping his priority list. The post Mourinho reshapes Real Madrid recruitment with Dias and Fernandez targets appeared first on Football España.

A defender's view on how to stop the World Cup's best strikers

Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Harry Kane look to be on lethal form in this World Cup. So how can you stop them in their tracks?

Kylian Mbappé hungry for Golden Boot battle with Messi as he sings Les Bleus

Mbappé: Nothing bigger than playing for France Striker defends performance of Ousmane Dembélé Kylian Mbappé is relishing a Golden Boot duel with Lionel Messi, the player he calls the “best of the best”, but has said his personal ambitions would be subordinated to those of the team when France seek to seal qualification from Group C with victory over Iraq on Monday. Mbappé stepped into the full glare of the international media for the first time at this World Cup and handled the spotlight impeccably. From a defence of Ousmane Dembélé to the hot topic of the hydration break, France’s captain spoke in a calm and thoughtful manner. A more pugilistic role was reserved for his manager, Didier Deschamps. Continue reading...

Has Bellingham's brilliance ended the No 10 debate for England?

For many, the debate about who should be England's No 10 at this World Cup is now over, after Jude Bellingham put in a 10/10 performance against Croatia.

Mourinho blocks Gonzalo’s departure from Real Madrid -report

Real Madrid coach José Mourinho has told the club to stop negotiating Gonzalo García’s departure from the Spanish capital as he’d like to work with the young attacker for a few weeks before making the final decision about his future, according to a report published today on MARCA. Madrid were ready to part ways with Gonzalo, who emerged as a very intriguing prospect in the FIFA Club World Cup a year ago. However, the Spanish striker couldn’t get the relevant minutes he coveted and the club ultimately considered that it would be a smart move to sell him while keeping a buy-back option. Things have changed, as Gonzalo’s profile as a striker could be useful for Mourinho, who has always valued the presence of a target man on his rosters.

Chelsea fixtures: Alonso starts Blues reign with London derby on MNF

Xabi Alonso's Chelsea reign will begin with a west London derby at Fulham on Monday Night Football, live on Sky Sports.

Players are human beings and social media comments reach us. But the focus has to be on the pitch | Rodrygo

The pressure of wearing the Brazil shirt can be heavy but also creates a positive kind of responsibility Playing in a World Cup is a huge experience; when you’re with the national team, your entire focus is on the squad’s schedule – the hotel, the training centre, the stadium – basically, everything revolves around the matches. I lived that routine daily at the 2022 World Cup and realised the immense dedication the tournament demands. In this 2026 edition, as fate would have it and as I am still recovering from my injury, I’m discovering a different side of the World Cup: a World Cup of reunions, with countless events happening simultaneously across the cities and countries, creating opportunities for conversations and extraordinary experiences. Continue reading...

'My brother hid in a rice sack' - The refugee stars at the World Cup

Germany and Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger, whose family fled Sierra Leone's civil war, is among those campaigning for a change in global attitudes around refugees.

World Cup 2026: Bellingham playing with ‘chip on shoulder’, Côte d’Ivoire’s Wahi barred over alleged fixing – live

⚽ All the latest news from day eight of the tournament ⚽ Player guide | Bracketology | Golden Boot | Mail us A fresh England line hot off the wires coming right up … If by some bizarre chance you missed it, here’s a gallery of some of the best images from England 4-2 Croatia: Continue reading...

'Chip on shoulder' may help Bellingham to best form

Jude Bellingham says the external "noise" around his place in the England team may help him find his best form during the World Cup.

Bellingham scores early in second half to put England 3-2 up

Jude Bellingham gives England a flying start to the second half against Croatia, scoring in the 47th minute to put Thomas Tuchel's side 3-2 ahead at the Fifa World Cup.

Bellingham set to start for England against Croatia

Jude Bellingham is set to start in England's coveted number 10 role in their World Cup opener against Croatia.

Clichy on Mbappe, Henderson and France 2010

Gaël Clichy: The truth about France 2010.

Nico Paz Tells Real Madrid He Wants to Stay at Como

Nico Paz Tells Real Madrid He Wants to Stay at Como The post Nico Paz Tells Real Madrid He Wants to Stay at Como appeared first on Football España.

Messi’s record, Mbappé’s magic and Haaland’s big splash | World Cup Daily

Max Rushden is joined by Barry Glendenning, Ben Fisher, Lars Sivertsen and Philippe Auclair as Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland and Lionel Messi all hit their stride in style Continue reading...

Extraordinary Messi makes more history in masterclass for the ages

Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland both enjoyed a fine start to the World Cup - but on a day packed with superstars, Lionel Messi still took top billing.

Olise is your man of the match in France World Cup opener

While Kylian Mbappe grabbed the headlines by scoring a double to become France's all-time top scorer, it was Michael Olise who topped your player ratings in their World Cup opener against Senegal.

The VAR call that dumbfounded the world's best refs

France are left stunned at the decision not to award a penalty as Kylian Mbappe goes down under Sadio Mane's tackle.

Mbappé’s belter steals show as fluid France see off late Senegal challenge

This was an ominous start from the World Cup favourites. A spluttering first-half performance gave way to a second period characterised by a combination of physical intensity and technical ability that few club sides, never mind nations, can match. Add on a record-breaking double for Kylian Mbappé and some superlative playmaking from Michael Olise and this was very much a job well done for Les Bleus. After Mbappé tucked away a superb Olise pass just after the hour, a match that had started as a keenly fought contest faded away into a procession. When the captain crashed his second of the day past Édouard Mendy in a chaotic period of added time, he secured both victory and his place as France’s all-time leading scorer, a 58th goal for his country edging him ahead of Olivier Giroud. Continue reading...

Spurs join three-way Tonali fight - Wednesday's gossip

Tottenham encouraged to bid for Sandro Tonali, Real Madrid plot Ruben Dias move and Manchester United make Marcus Rashford valuation.

The four selection dilemmas facing Tuchel

Jude Bellingham or Morgan Rogers? Bukayo Saka or Noni Madueke? Anthony Gordon or Marcus Rashford? John Stones, Ezri Konsa or Marc Guehi? Sky Sports' News' Rob Dorsett analyses the big selection dilemmas facing Thomas Tuchel.

‘Kylian is Kylian’: Deschamps happy to shield Mbappé amid political scrutiny

With France captain in spotlight at team hotel and in home press, head coach tries to pull focus ahead of World Cup opener against Senegal Since France arrived at their World Cup base in Boston last week they have been a regular source of fascination for locals. Crowds of mostly young people have formed outside Les Bleus’ downtown hotel to cheer the team as they leave for training. All the players are met with pleas for waves and autographs, but the roar that meets Kylian Mbappé is of a different order altogether. Mbappé is one of a small number of contemporary footballers whose names have cut through with the US public (though he is not yet a mononym, unlike Messi). As France begin their quest for a third World Cup he is inevitably the focus back home too, not least after giving an interview to Le Parisien at the weekend in which he denied ambitions of one day becoming president of France, saying: “I’m hated enough as it is!” Continue reading...

Rüdiger on coming off the bench: “That’s my role, and I accept and respect it,”

HOUSTON, TEXAS - JUNE 14: Antonio Rüdiger of Germany looks on during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group E match between Germany and Curacao at Houston Stadium on June 14, 2026 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images) | Getty Images Germany opened their 2026 World Cup campaign in emphatic fashion, crushing Curaçao 7-1 at NRG Stadium in Houston. While the result was never in doubt, one of the notable storylines came from Antonio Rüdiger, who started the match on the bench after Julian Nagelsmann opted to leave the experienced center-back out of the starting lineup. The Real Madrid defender entered the game in the 73rd minute with Germany already comfortably leading 5-1. Speaking to DAZN after the match, Rüdiger made it clear that he is putting the team’s success ahead of his personal situation. “That’s my role, and I accept and respect it,” the 33-year-old said. The veteran defender, who has earned 83 caps for Germany and made 26 appearances for Real Madrid this season, emphasized that collective success remains his priority despite his reduced role. “In the end, the important thing is the team,” Rüdiger added.

Cucurella joins Real Madrid - will Fernandez follow?

Marc Cucurella has officially joined Real Madrid just hours before his opening World Cup game with Spain, raising the question of whether his former Chelsea team-mate Enzo Fernandez follows.

France star Mbappe vows to increase defensive work

French captain Kylian Mbappe vows to increase his defensive efforts at the World Cup in the face of criticism.

England latest: Entire squad trains as Henderson backs Bellingham

World Cup 2026: Fifa urged to remove official over hand gesture; teams hit back at Ceferin; Iran arrive in US – live

⚽️ Iran’s Taremi says tension ‘undermines joy’ ⚽️ Player guide | Bracketology | Wallchart | Mail Martin Sometimes a team needs a player to have some standout performances to jump start a tournament and Jordan Henderson believes that player for England will be Jude Bellingham. Henderson said: I’m sure he will have a big impact for us in this tournament. I can remember five years ago I gave him his first cap, it was away at Middlesbrough. How much he’s grown, as a player and as a person since then, is incredible really. I had a good idea when I first saw him playing and training, and the way he was. I think everybody forgets how young he is. We do rondos and it’s the youngest in, and there’s people that I think should be going in before him, but he’s always one of the first in the middle to go in. It just reminds us how young he is. I honestly couldn’t speak highly enough of him. Continue reading...

Henderson’s Euro 2024 snub was England’s fatal flaw – now his leadership could prove crucial

Gareth Southgate was looking to the future when he dropped midfielder but, as Jude Bellingham says, the veteran’s influence is indispensable The cat is well truly out of the bag. Nobody expected the conversation to be quite so revealing when Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers sat on the Lions’ Den sofa last week. Content controlled by the Football Association was an unlikely place for Bellingham to drop a few truth bombs, but the England midfielder was not minded to hold back when it was time to discuss his experience at Euro 2024. “It didn’t feel like there was any kind of hierarchy,” the 22-year-old said. “I think at the Euros we got some things a little bit wrong off the pitch. I don’t feel like the group connected as well as it could have – for a number of reasons.” Continue reading...

Sami Khedira to Return to Real Madrid in Mourinho Coaching Staff Role

Khedira Returns to Real Madrid as Part of Mourinho's Staff The post Sami Khedira to Return to Real Madrid in Mourinho Coaching Staff Role appeared first on Football España.

Criticism of Bellingham is hard to read - Henderson

England's Jordan Henderson says he finds it "hard to read" what is written about Jude Bellingham but believes the midfielder can be the team's "X-factor" player at the World Cup.

Chelsea latest: Is Cucurella sale to Real Madrid the right call? Have your say

Arbeloa, Mourinho, Silva trading places - with agent key to swaps

Alvaro Arbeloa, Jose Mourinho and Marco Silva are replacing each other at Fulham, Real Madrid and Benfica - with one super-agent key to the swaps.

Nico Paz will not return to Real Madrid this summer -report

Real Madrid midfielder Nico Paz will finally stay at Como for another season, according to a report from Onda Cero’s Alberto Pereiro. The Argentinian player told Madrid that he’d like to stay there one more year and Los Blancos have decided to keep him with the Italian club after consulting coach José Mourinho, per that same report. Paz knew that it was going to be very hard for him to get consistent, relevant minutes for Madrid next year. He would’ve been behind several players in the rotation and his profile as an attacking midfielder has some overlap with players like Jude Bellingham or Arda Güler being crucial pieces for Los Blancos already. Nico Paz will get another opportunity to keep improving and developing as a player in the Serie A. Meanwhile, Madrid will have an option to bring Nico Paz back to the Spanish capital for €10 million in the summer of 2027.

Brazil find that everything good flows through Viní of New Jersey

The Real Madrid star was his country’s best player in their World Cup opener on Saturday. They’ll need more of the same if they are to make a deep run Vinícius Júnior is not wearing the famous Brazil No 10 at this World Cup. For now, the hallowed shirt of Pelé, Zico, Rivellino, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho and all the rest belongs to Neymar. Or at least it belongs to a man faintly resembling Neymar. Now 34, he showed just enough at Santos to make Carlo Ancelotti’s squad after two lucrative but mostly wasted years in Saudi Arabia. Ancelotti could have chosen João Pedro or Richarlison or Savinho or Gabriel Jesus or Igor Jesus or, hell, even Antony, but he took Neymar. Who is injured again – a calf problem this time – and whose fitness will loom over the Brazilian campaign, just as it has at some point during every one of his four World Cups. Continue reading...

Has Vinicius Jr brilliance just papered over the Brazilian cracks?

Vinicius Jr scores a wonder goal to rescue his side but Brazil's performance against Morocco raises more questions than answers.

Vinicius Jr scores 'lightning bolt' equaliser for Brazil

Brazil's Vinicius Jr fires home a "lightning bolt" of a strike to level up the scores in against Morocco in their Group C match in the 2026 World Cup.

Out of Brazil's opener but will Ancelotti's Neymar gamble pay off?

“Neymar can be important for any team,” Cafu, the last man to captain Brazil to World Cup glory, tells Sky Sports. “Seeing Neymar playing well, physically and technically, that can help the Brazil team a lot.” It has just been a long time since anyone saw it.

Atletico Madrid Reject Real Madrid’s €150m Bid for Julian Alvarez

Atletico Madrid Reject Real Madrid's €150m Bid for Julian Alvarez The post Atletico Madrid Reject Real Madrid’s €150m Bid for Julian Alvarez appeared first on Football España.

Bernardo Silva Set to Join Real Madrid Ahead of World Cup

Bernardo Silva Set to Join Real Madrid The post Bernardo Silva Set to Join Real Madrid Ahead of World Cup appeared first on Football España.

Ancelotti confirms Neymar will miss Brazil opener

Carlo Ancelotti confirms Neymar will miss Brazil's opening game of the World Cup against Morocco on Saturday.

Bellingham set to start, but no Guehi - England's expected team

Jude Bellingham is expected to start England's opening game of the 2026 World Cup, as Marc Guehi could start on the bench.

Critics of Mbappe have gone 'too far', says Dembele

France forward Ousmane Dembele defends his national team captain Kylian Mbappe, saying criticism of the Real Madrid striker has gone "too far".

Weir's title regret as she confirms Real Madrid exit

Scotland midfielder Caroline Weir has confirmed her exit from Real Madrid after four years with the La Liga runners-up without giving a hint of her next destination.

Bellingham: England got things wrong off the pitch at Euro 2024

Jude Bellingham has claimed things were not right off the pitch in England's camp at Euro 2024.

France followed to World Cup by home politics after Mbappé’s swipe at far right

Platini among former players to accuse captain of creating distraction as Deschamps defends captain’s right to speak “If there’s one wish I have, it’s for you to ask my players about the opponents, about football,” Didier Deschamps told journalists after announcing France’s World Cup squad. “I understand that you might feel obliged to ask other questions, but they’re not there to answer them.” Deschamps has found himself batting away questions about off-pitch matters beyond his scope before his final tournament as head coach. He has sought to protect his players from media scrutiny while insisting they are anything but sheltered from the wider political issues surrounding this tournament. Continue reading...

We need to feel love playing for England - Bellingham

England midfielder Jude Bellingham stresses the importance of needing to 'feel loved' as he looks to help the Three Lions enjoy World Cup success this summer.