Welcome to FourFourTwo’s live coverage of the biggest game on Earth. We are at the New York/New Jersey Stadium for a historic, mouthwatering clash of titans as Spain face off against defending world champions Argentina.

Can Lionel Messi guide La Albiceleste to back-to-back world titles and secure a historic fourth crown? Or will Spain's generational prodigy Lamine Yamal lead La Roja to their second-ever World Cup trophy?

Spain have been ruthless on their road to New Jersey, boasting the tournament's meanest defense behind the masterful Rodri who looks back to his Ballon d'Or best. But Argentina have proven they simply do not know when they are beaten, snatching a dramatic, Messi-inspired 2-1 win against England in the semi-finals, under their new guise as the comeback kings of the world.

Welcome!

Did you leave your football socks out for Soccer Claus last night? Meat and potato pie and an $11 beer under the World Cup tree?

The big day is upon us: the World Cup final.

Introducing first, in the blue corner: the reigning, defending, undisputed football champions of the world: Argentina.

And in the red corner, the challengers: former one-time World Cup winners and reigning European champions, Spain.

Massive game ahead. As big as it gets.

The scene

MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey is our venue for this one.

This is the first time either side will have played at this stadium this summer.

There's maaaaassive queues for the media to get in today, which has not been the case at other games at this tournament - and by that we mean two hours if you're lucky, potentially up to four. Secret Service security checks, apparently. Can't imagine why.

Hopefully the fans in attendance won't have anything like those issues.

Spain's route to the final

Spain were tipped to do well this summer, of course, having been by far the best side and deserved winners at the Euros two years ago.

Luis de la Fuente's side kicked off with one of the most memorable games of the tournament as they were held to a goalless draw by debutants Cape Verde - and that game may well have contributed to Spain going under the radar a bit over the following few weeks.

Aside from their 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia in their second group game, Spain have built their run on being largely unspectacular but extremely well-drilled and extremely competent.

Spain made sure of topping the group with a 1-0 win over Uruguay before beating Austria 3-0 in the round of 32 and claiming a last-minute victory over Portugal in the round of 16.

Belgium remain the only side to have scored against Spain at this World Cup - well done, Charles De Ketelaere - but once again it was Mikel Merino who settled the tie late on in a 2-1 victory in the quarter-finals.

France were widely expected to beat Spain in the semi-finals, but Mikel Oyarzabal's third game of the tournament put them ahead before Pedro Perro made it 2-0 in a game Spain had complete control over throughout.

Argentina's route to the final

Argentina have had a much more dramatic time of it, on the whole.

The group stage was a breeze for them, with Algeria, Austria, and Jordan all seen off with minimal fuss, largely thanks to a series of inspired Lionel Messi displays.

Since then, though? It's got a bit ridiculous.

Cape Verde came from behind both in normal time and in extra time in a sensational game in the round of 32, with an own goal eventually giving Argentina a 3-2 victory.

Egypt went two goals up and looked set to make it through the round of 16 with Lionel Messi also missing a penalty, but roared back in the final 11 minutes to claim another 3-2 win.

Lionel Scaloni's side were second-best for much of their quarter-final meeting with Switzerland, offering very little after going ahead early on through an Alexis Mac Allister header off Messi's corner. But a red card for Swiss Breel Embolo just after his side had equalised turned the game, with Argentina scoring twice in extra time to win 3-1.

And there was yet more resilience required against England in the semi-finals after Anthony Gordon's goal ten minutes into the second half saw them fall behind - only for Thomas Tuchel's absolutely cowardly and pathetic substitutions to allow Argentina to keep applying the pressure and come back to claim a 2-1 win in the final five minutes plus stoppage time.

The race for the Golden Boot

As well as the World Cup trophy, Lionel Messi could have his eye on this year's golden boot.

He's going to have to get at least two goals and maybe an assist to win it this year, though.

Kylian Mbappe's brace against England took him to 10 goals this summer, with Messi currently on 8.

Unless he went off inside 57 minutes, even two goals from Messi would not be enough on their own to earn him the Golden Boot ahead of Mbappe.

That's because the first tiebreaker is assists - and both Messi and Mbappe have four of them.

If both goals and assists finish honours even, then it comes down to goals per minute - and again, Mbappe would hold the advantage, largely thanks to Argentina having played two lots of extra time at this tournament.

So...Messi needs two goals and an assist, or a hat-trick, to get the Golden Boot this year.

Either way, we are guaranteed to have the highest-scoring Golden Boot winner since Gerd Muller hit ten in 1970.

Incidentally, Mbappe is now also ahead of Messi for all-time goals scored at World Cups, too: the Frenchman is on 22, with Messi on 21.

The referee

46-year-old Slovenian Slavko Vincic has been handed the highest honour a referee can earn: taking charge of a World Cup final.

He said: “So, first of all, a shock. Then happiness. I was shaking, so it’s an incredible honour to get the World Cup final.

“It’s something that… it’s only a dream for a referee, for a young referee when they start. So, I’m very proud, very proud of myself, my team.

“It’s very difficult to put everything into words, but I’m very proud to represent my country, Slovenia, in the biggest sporting event in the world. So, yeah, I’m very proud. My team is very proud and we will do our best.”

This is Vincic's fourth game of the tournament: he also oversaw Brazil vs Morocco and Jordan vs Algeria in the group stage, as well as Mexico vs Ecuador in the round of 32.

Vincic also refereed the 2022 Europa League final, where Eintracht Frankfurt beat Rangers on penalties, and the 2024 Champions League final, where Real Madrid beat Borussia Dortmund.

The teams are in the building

The US president's presence at this game has meant those massive queues, with both TSA and the Secret Service handling security and causing waits of at least two hours to get into the stadium. Seems like a great setup all round.

But the teams are in the stadium, at least. Spain have taken a little wander around the pitch to check out the surface.

Just over an hour and a quarter to go, with the closing ceremony to come before kick-off.

Closing ceremony under way

We've already seen IShowSpeed, now we're onto Post Malone. We're also going to get performances from Laura Pausini, Nicole Scherzinger and Robbie Williams, with an appearance from Tom Cruise.

Real up-to-the-minute cutting-edge stuff all round. Truly the very best world music has to offer.

Team news

Spain: Unai Simon, Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella, Dani Olmo, Rodri, Fabian Ruiz, Lamine Yamal, Mikel Oyarzabal, Alex Baena.

Argentina: Emiliano Martinez, Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico, Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, Nicolas Gonzalez, Lionel Messi, Julian Alvarez.

Do ITV know England aren't playing in this final?

We're currently getting a video package on Thomas Tuchel. Sure.

Where will this one be won and lost?

Throughout the knockout stages, Argentina have looked very capable in attack and have been able to summon on a huge amount of spirit and, perhaps more importantly, genuine quality in the final third.

But they have looked vulnerable in defence, particularly on their right flank - the opposition's left side. They can be got at by swift attacks up that side in particular.

We've also seen certain teams and individuals get to grips better with how to keep Lionel Messi quiet, at least up to a point. Switzerland's Granit Xhaka and England's Elliot Anderson both left Messi looking frustrated for much of the game in the past two rounds; might that be a job for Fabian Ruiz and/or Rodri here?

Spain, meanwhile, have been superb at not allowing an obvious weak point to show anywhere on the pitch.

If there has been a criticism of them at points, it has been that they have had phases of games where they have looked rather toothless, particularly with Lamine Yamal struggling for form for much of the competition.

But their system has looked more and more convincing as the summer has gone on, and they have excelled at grinding teams down - and when all else fails, Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino has proven to be a superb option to play up front from the bench.

For Argentina, the key may be to try and limit Rodri's influence from midfield...but just like with Messi, that's easier said than done.

Extended half time coming in this one, obviously

Because apparently it's an absolute necessity to have a half-time show, a break of around 25-30 minutes is expected in the middle of this game.

Madonna, Shakira, BTS, Justin Bieber, Burna Boy and Gustavo Dudamel and the PS22 Chorus (with Coldplay) will stick their stupid disruptive noses where they don't belong for the benefit of nobody except FIFA's desperate bid for cultural relevance. Sure, Gianna, that's what Madonna, Shakira and Coldplay give you.

Micah Richard says on the BBC: "After about 10-15 minutes, I would have been getting really stiff. I would have found it really difficult."

All worth it though we're sure.

30 minutes to go

Excited?

The teams are going through their warm-ups at present, but don't worry, they'll soon have some more musicians and stuff out on the pitch.

What goes around...

After enjoying himself at Harry Kane's expense, Wayne Rooney's voice is now giving up on him as he goes through his pre-match punditry on the BBC.

Looking to go back-to-back

Only two sides have ever won back-to-back men's World Cups: Italy in 1934 and 1938, and Brazil in 1958 and 1962.

Argentina have the chance to join that list today have deprived France of the honour in an absolute classic of a final four years ago.

We can only dream of having a showpiece as brilliant at that one this time around...right?

Could be a long evening

Four of the past five men's World Cup finals have gone to extra time, with two of them settled on penalties. France's 4-2 triumph over Croatia in 2018 was the only exception.

With the extended half time interval, we're probably not going to be done with the regulation 90 minutes until well past 5pm local time (10pm UK time). Extra time and penalties would be likely to take us past 11.

And just to compound matters, the closing ceremony looks to be running a bit behind schedule.

Jennifer Hudson belts out the US national anthem

The EGOT-winner is finally in place to sing the Star-Spangled Banner.

Still weird that she was once married to David Otunga.

Paulie Gualtieri from the Sopranos now takes the mic

No, wait, it's Robbie Williams, apparently.

This is dross

Paulie is joined by Nicole Scherzinger and Laura Pausini to perform some absolute dirge that has absolutely killed the crowd. Absolute garbage. Why have they done this to us? Get on with it.

The World Cup now comes out in a Louis Vuitton case. "I feel like I'm having a fever dream," my wife says. She's not wrong. Bizarre business all round.

And now here's Tom Cruise

He's doing a dramatic monologue, while holding onto his sunglasses. Nobody could have held onto them for him for a bit?

"Football is a language spoken without words," says Tom Cruise

Take your own advice Tom.

Finally, mercifully, that's all over (for now)

The teams are in the tunnel. The flags of Spain and Argentina have been pulled across the pitch. Minutes away.

KICK OFF

Over six minutes late, we're under way in the World Cup final!

4 - Tentative opening

Both sides have had a spell of possession to try and feel their way into the game.

5 - First chance

Yamal plays off Olmo brilliantly to get free in the box, but his shot deflects straight at Emi Martinez.

Spain get into the box again moments later but it comes to nothing, and a quick Argentina break forces Unai Simon to race 35 yards off his line to mop up. Just about gets there before Messi and the danger is gone.

Messi looked to pull out of that when I think it was winnable.

7 - Free kick shout

Porro looked set to get into the box off Oyarzabal's flick, but was brought down off the ball by Mac Allister. No foul, says the referee. Not sure that was the right call but there we go.

Spain looking the better side so far.

12 - Spain corner

Ruiz's cross from deep on the left is flicked behind for a corner. Baena to take from the right.

He finds Olmo at the back post, but it's a hard one to take down and Romero nips in to get it away.

15 - Rough tackle

Mac Allister somehow avoids a yellow card for a nasty challenge on Olmo. Not a red, should have been yellow for sure, just a warning from the referee.

17 - Argentina free kick

Baena with a cynical shove on Messi 40 yards out.

De Paul tries to find Gonzalez's run into the box but overhits it for a goal kick.

18 - Claim

Wonderful first touch from Yamal to bring down a high ball, drive forward and put in a low cross, but Emi Martinez claims it.

23 - "The assistant didn't put his flag up!"

So says Alan Shearer after a clearance deflects off a Spanish man and drops nicely for Oyarzabal inside the box, with Fernandez back well to make sure there's no threat, but Oyarzabal knew he was offside and didn't go for it.

Yes, Alan. They don't put the flag up straight away these days. They haven't for years. Come on, keep up.

25 - Hydration break

Is it disrespectful to play Las Ketchup during the drinks break? That's what they're doing, anyway.

One of our men in the ground, the esteemed Joe Donnohue, reports that the Spain fans are chanting "FIFA-tina" whenever a decision goes Argentina's way, such as Mac Allister avoiding yellow for that tackle ten minutes ago.

28 - Back at it

Play resumes. Spain have had the better of that first quarter.

Mac Allister with a blatant intentional handball. Still no yellow for him.

30 - Intense from Spain

Spain are not letting Argentina breathe in their own half here. They just had to put it out for a throw in the Spain half to get away from Cucurella's intense press after he had briefly taken possession of a rushed Argentina pass.

33 - Argentina free kick

Mac Allister draws a foul out on the left wing. Deep crossing position for the Argentina free kick, but cross it they will...

...no, Messi passes it instead, then is easily dispossessed by Ruiz. Waste.

35 - "That late flag again"

Shearer at it again as Cucurella is flagged after his cross is cleared for a throw.

I don't understand how all pundits and commentators still keep doing this, as if they've watched no football in the past seven years.

38 - Probing

Spain have a sustained spell of pressure around the Argentina box, but Cucurella's cross is poor. Spain get another try through Olmo, but it's headed away before Oyarzabal can get onto it. Porro shouts for handball against Lisandro Martinez just outside the box as his shot is blocked, nothing given..

Spain try again after dealing with an attempted Argentina counter, and eventually Oyarzabal gets a shot off from 25 yards - well struck but straight at Emi Martinez for a routine save.

That's about as good an attempt on goal as we've seen so far, and even that was nothing to write home about.

41 - Yellow card

Lisandro Martinez in the book for the most cynical of fouls on Oyarzabal to stop any chance of a Spain break.

42 - Nobody on the end of it

Nice intricate stuff from Spain to get Porro free up the right. Decent ball into an area, but nobody challenges for it.

43 - Wide

Cucurella receives the ball on the edge of the box towards the left, no real passing options, so he has a shot - drags it wide of the far post.

And Lisandro Martinez has now gone down, with Emi Martinez indicating to the bench that the centre-back needs to go off.

44 - Substitution

Nicolas Otamendi is on in place of Lisandro Martinez.

Four minutes added on

This game still yet to come to life. Can we get a twist to set up something for the second half please?

HALF TIME: Spain 0-0 Argentina

Yawn.

And now for a complete and utter waste of everyone's time for the next 20-30 minutes in the form of that ridiculous half-time show.

Go and have a walk, have a coffee, renew your acquaintance with a long-lost childhood friend, file your tax return, and by the time you're done it might almost be time for the second half.

Hold the phone

The Muppets are part of this half time show?

Alright fine. Dunno why they've got those other fleshbags involved at all. All Muppets please.

There's Madge

Performing her song Music, from [checks notes] the year 2000.

All pre-recorded, as well. She's being driven around by a mortified-looking OG Ronaldo and a rather happier looking Ronaldinho.

Why are you doing this, Ronaldo? This is beneath you.

And out them come onto the pitch as a trio.

And now the real main event: the Muppets helping to perform Seven Nation Army (2003).

And now BTS take over

Performing Dynamite (2020), which sounds like a tribute to B*Witched.

Of course we have to have Ted Lasso. He's really funny! He's an American but he's a football manager! He doesn't really know what he's doing! But he's lovable!

He hands over to Justin Bieber to bring the mood down with something boring and heartfelt.

Chris Martin is proud of this, is he?

Lining his pockets with FIFA money to force this crap on the world?

Well done, you're an asset to society.

Anyway here's Shakira and Burna Boy.

Now here's some kids who have been co-opted into this farce

Chris Martin and the rest of the performers join a bunch of kids around the word "LOVE" on the pitch.

And that's it. What a spectacular waste of time and money. Everyone involved should be ashamed.

ROOONNEEEYYY!

Gabby Logan asks the BBC pundits for their favourite parts of the half time show. Wayne Rooney: "My favourite bit was when it finished. I thought it was crap."

Here we go then

The players are back out, finally, some 27 minutes after the half time whistle went.

Argentina are absolutely meandering over to slow things down further, and Leandro Paredes is set to come on.

Half time: Argentina sub

Paredes comes on for Nicolas Gonzalez.

SECOND HALF

We're back under way.

46 - Has to hit it better

Argentina give the ball away in their own third, and Baena cuts across the face of the 18 yard box to et into a good shooting position - but puts a tame effort pretty well straight at Emi Martinez.

Had to at least test the keeper properly there.

48 - Argentina corner

Messi to take from the right.

Whipped to the near post, clearance rebounds out off Mac Allister for a goal kick.

52 - Man down...two men down

Paredes leaves an elbow on Rodri, sparking a very slow coming together between the two sides. Olmo gets shoved over in the thick of it too. Something and nothing.

Paredes goes in the book for pushing over Olmo.

54 - Very scrappy this now

The ten minutes since the break has just been a series of niggly little fouls. That plays to Argentina's favour you would think.

Spain actually play some football now, but Ruiz's return pass for Oyarzabal on the edge of the box is cut out after good work to get there.

57 - Spain corner

Rodri's through ball slips Olmo into the box at pace. He tries to cut it back to Cucurella in a great position, but Montiel gets there first. Behind for a corner.

In from the right after a short corner, but it's a dreadful ball - far too high and straight out for a goal kick.

58 - Argentina sub

Montiel goes off, on comes Nahuel Molina. Straight swap at right-back.

59 - No moment of quality so far

Spain have had most of the ball, all the territory and all the impetus, but this is them in that sterile mode we've seen them in at various points in this tournament.

They presumably want Yamal to provide a spark, but he's done absolutely diddly squat so far.

60 - Spain free kick

Spain have a free kick on the right and could either pass, cross or shoot here. Left for Yamal...who hits the wall. Baena thinks he's bought a corner off a blocked cross, but it stays in play and Argentina force it out for a throw their own way.

62 - Spain subs

Ferran Torres and Pedri on for Oyarzabal and Ruiz.

63 - Argentina still yet to have a shot

Absolutely zero from the reigning champions. Five from Spain, apparently, of which three on target. None of them memorable.

64 - Spain corner

Olmo tries his luck from 25 yards , straight at Emi Martinez, but the keeper makes a bit of a hash of it and turns it out for a corner. He was relieved to see it wasn't going into the top corner instead.

Corner cleared, Yamal tries again with a good cross, Paredes nods it out for another corner on the left this time.

Bit of a scramble in the box, but Argentina lump it away in the end.

66 - And another corner

Cross from the left nodded behind. Yamal to take from the right.

Straight to Mac Allister at the near post. Headed away.

Yamal gets to the byline off the loose ball and puts it onto Torres' head, but he puts it - you guessed it - straight at the keeper. Should have done better.

68 - Drinks break

We're going to have a three minute stoppage.

Cristian Romero has gone down holding his ankle, but after a few moments, he's back up to join his teammates in the dugout.

Still goalless.

69 - We'll level with you

This game has been rubbish. If Spain had anything in the final third, they'd have this game sewn up already. So far, they have not.

In the other direction, we've barely seen anything of Lionel Messi whatsoever.

70 - Final Argentina subs

Romero and De Paul go off. Giuliano Simeone and Facundo Medina on.

Back under way.

75 - Spain subs

Olmo and Baena make way. On come Nico WIlliams and Mikel Merino.

Firmly into Plan B mode here for Spain.

77 - You won't believe this

Spain just shot straight at Emi Martinez again. Pedri this time.

Spain try again and Yamal wriggles into the box, but his cutback is blocked and cleared.

Long shot from Cubarsi tests Martinez with its power, despite being (yeeep) straight at him. Spain keep it alive and win a corner.

Over everyone and out for a throw.

80 - Spain corner

Porro's cross from the right is blocked, out for yet another Spain corner.

Short again, Pedri gets it to Williams at the byline, cross to Laporte, header is a comfortable one for Emi Martinez.

He launches it long, it ends up back with Simon in the opposite box.

83 - Yellow card

Enzo Fernandez being a petulant little sod and getting booked for dissent? Surely not.

87 - Wide

Merino dinks it over the top for Torres, but he can't connect properly with his finish and it bounces harmlessly wide.

90 - The view from MetLife Stadium

Our own Joe Donnohue, out at MetLife Stadium, has the following assessment:

If Lionel Messi gets just one of the opportunities Spain have made a habit of squandering this half, it'll be game over. The Spanish have been uncharacteristically profligate - their attempts lacking power and placement.

Emiliano Martinez has made save after save, but he's hardly had to work for any of them. We approach extra time here at the New York New Jersey Stadium…

Four minutes added

We're now into Scaloni time, or else it'll be extra time.

90+1 - Argentina free kick

Laporte fails to dematerialise as Messi runs into him, which is a free kick, apparently.

It's 35-40 yards from goal. but a chance to ump the ball into the box.

No, they go short. Worked to Messi, who is tackled as he cuts inside.

Argentina come again, Simeone crosses, Simon claims it.

Spain go on the break, Williams has two men in support and opts to shoot - good save!

90+3 - RED CARD - Enzo Fernandez (Argentina)

How thick can you get?

Fernandez was only booked ten minutes ago, but he still decides to go ploughing straight through Cubarsi. He's eons late, it's a ridiculous challenge, second yellow, off you go.

Stupid boy.

90+4 - Argentina protest, Fernandez cries

Argentina, ridiculously, protest that decision en masse. Not a leg to stand on there. Ridiculous.

Fernandez is in tears as he goes off. Good.

90+7 - Spain free kick

This could be the last kick of the 90 - and Spain have a free kick in an ideal shooting position.

The world holds its breath. Yamal and Porro looking at it.

90+8 - Save!

Good hit by Yamal on that free kick, but Emi Martinez pushes it out for a corner!

Taken quickly and short, then put into the box...cleared.

END OF 90 MINUTES

Goalless. And now Argentina must take on extra time with ten men.

EXTRA TIME

We're under way on the additional 30 minutes.

97 - GOAL DISALLOWED

Nico WIlliams has it in the net, but the referee has whistled!

Pedri touches on a ball into the box, Merino beats Martinez to the loose ball but can only put it straight at the keeper, and Williams tucks home the rebound!

VAR will have a look at this - but the initial replays don't really show anything in the way of a foul...

99 - Goal still ruled out, Spain sub

Yeah VAR has chosen not to intervene. VAR apaprently saying Otamendi had his foot stood on in the build-up. OK.

Eric Garcia on for Rodri.

112 - Off target

Yamal miscues his shot well off target after Pedri leaves it on the edge of the box for his Barcelona teammate.

113 - Close!

Williams whips in a cross from the corner of the box and Merino times his run well to meet it with Emi Martinez surely beaten - but he glances it wide!

That should have been the opener.

115 - Yellow card

Scaloni goes in the book for protesting the non-award of a Cucurella foul on Simeone.

I think it was a foul but there we go.

HALF TIME IN EXTRA TIME

This has descended into farce over the past few minutes with both sides as bad as the other for petulant little shoves and tussles.

15 more minutes to go.

Still zero shots for Argentina in 105 minutes.

This game is awful.

INTO THE FINAL 15

Come on, someone, do something.

106 - GOAL SPAIN! 1-0

FINALLY! TORRES!

More on the goal!

It's a high ball into the box, Williams does great to get to it before Medina at the byline and nod it back to Torres, and he powers a shot past the helpless Emi Martinez!

11

111 - Yellow card

Mac Allister is in the book for a foul on Merino.

He was very lucky not to be booked early on in the game.

114 - GOAL DISALLOWED

Spain hit Argentina on the counter, Yamal plays Torres in from the halfway line, nobody except Emi Martinez in that entire half of the pitch, and he gets his finish right!

...but the flag is up for offside. Tight one, but correct.

115 - Argentina corner

Messi's cross is turned behind by Garcia.

Messi plays the corner short, then loops a high ball into the box...in fact, onto the roof of the net. Goal kick.

116 - What was that?!

Williams just surged into the box from the left, can either shoot or play it across to Torres....and instead pokes it harmlessly wide of the near post. Absolutely bizarre.

Looks like he was trying to flip-flap it and got it wrong.

117 - Man down

Argentina, finally, after 117 minutes, have their first shot - but Messi absolutely ploughs it straight into Merino's face from just outside the box.

That will have left him seeing stars, and he needs a moment to recover.

Play will restart with...a corner, I think?

No, it's a drop ball. Never went out.

120 - Argentina free kick

Daft foul from Williams 45 yards out. Messi is going to pump this into the box....no, short, then slides it to Simeone at the byline, cutback across the six yard box, and Spain get it behind from the goalmouth! Huge moment.

Argentina corner.

120+1 - Over the bar!

Five minutes added on.

Messi's corner causes a scramble, and the ball goes behind for another corner.

Short from Messi, but the ref orders it retaken having whistled for shoving in the box.

Messi again from the right, flicked on near post, Simeone is free to get a shot off - and put it over the bar! Just leaning back too far to get his foot around the ball.

120+3 - Stupid free kick

...goes Spain way on the edge of the Spain box. Argentina were working their way up the left and Simeone just shoved his man down off the ball. The officials clocked it.

120+5 - Keepaway

Spain are just holding onto the ball to try and see out the final minute....but a stray pass sees Cucurella commit a foul on halfway.

Emi Martinez to punt this into the box. Final seconds.

FULL TIME: SPAIN WIN THE WORLD CUP

That's it! Ferran Torres' extra-time goal is the difference against ten-man Argentina!

Disgrace

Scaloni has gone mad on the final whistle, marching onto the pitch and confronting several Spain players.

Alan Shearer says he saw someone throwing some haymakers.

Nicolas Otamendi is going at it with Rodri now.

Argentina have been disgraceful throughout this game and beyond. Cynical, nasty anti-football and no class whatsoever in defeat. Spain the only team that deserved to win it.

Complain all you want, Argentina

Paredes has absolutely lost his mind after the final whistle, going at it with several Spanish players and having to be pulled away before he properly lamps someone. He also grabbed Eric Garcia by the throat.

Joe Hart says: "Disgusting. There's one player in that squad who had a bit of class and that's Lionel Messi, who went around and shook the hands of all the Spanish players."

No idea what they're so upset about. You didn't have a shot until the one hundred and seventeeth minute, lads. Not a sausage. They set up to do absolutely nothing except defend and spoil the game. They got exactly what they deserved.

And now Spain can celebrate

Now that their dreadful opposition have shuffled off the pitch, Spain's celebrations begin in earnest.

Lamine Yamal lies down on the floor just taking it all in for a moment alongside Nico Williams.

The players and staff then join arms in a massive circle and dance around.

The European champions are now also world champions.

Spot on from Emma Hayes, as ever

The USA manager said on ITV: "This was death by a million cuts. Spain were just waiting to put a dying dog down."

Brutal and correct.

The agony and the ecstasy

This is what it means.

Trophy lift imminent

The various FIFA and government representatives are out to hand out the medals and, finally, the trophy.

The referees go up first, to whistles.

The individual awards

Young player of the tournament goes to Spain centre-back Pau Cubarsi, who looks absolutely delighted, bless him.

The Golden Gloves go to Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon. Emi Martinez doesn't look too happy. Oh no.

No holding the trophy his genitals for Simon.

The Golden Ball for player of the tournament goes to Rodri. Clean sweep for Spain.

The Golden Boot, of course, goes to France's 10-goal man Kylian Mbappe.

Messi in tears

The Argentinian icon has burst into tears after going up to receive his silver medal and then heading over to the Argentina end, who receive him with glowing adulation.

Up they go

The Spain squad now head up to get their gold medals.

How's that feel?

Match-winner Ferran Torres cannot resist laying his hand on the trophy on his way past after receiving his medal.

Rodri the last to go up, after Luis de la Fuente - and now the Spain captain will get the chance to lift the World Cup trophy.

And there it is!

Rodri hoists the trophy aloft!

The Spain squad take their turn to do likewise, and fireworks blast off from the full perimeter of Metlife Stadium.

That trophy is bigger than we remember

So then...that's it

The men's World Cup is over for another four years, and this year's edition is now one for the history books.

We should acknowledge there has been no shortage of controversy around and during this tournament, the fallout from which will rightly continue to be discussed.

But on the pitch, we've seen minnows go further than we expected, Scottish heartbreak once more, shock eliminations for Germany and the Netherlands in the round of 32, England blow hot and cold to make it to the semi-finals, a ten-goal thriller in the third-place play-off, Kylian Mbappe's golden boot triumph, and what was frankly one of the worst cup finals we have ever seen in any competition at any level.

The enduring images of that final will no doubt be Enzo Fernandez's sheer stupidity, Ferran Torres' deserved winner, Argentina's rage on the final whistle, and Lionel Messi's tears.

That's all from us for tonight and for the 2026 World Cup. Thank you for joining us!

Order the new issue here and postage is included – just select ‘'Season Preview Issue 394’. Subscribe to FourFourTwo today and save! You’ll get this issue FREE plus the next 13 as part of your subscription…

First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

My mum isn’t a football fan, but when I was growing up, she always used to ask me: “When does the bloody football season end? It seems like it goes on forever.” It didn’t back then, but now it does feel as though she’s right!

There doesn’t seem to have been much of a break, with the Club World Cup last summer, the Women’s Euros, the last domestic season and then the World Cup, but here we are, back for the start of another campaign.

The World Cup, of course, was the biggest ever, and even though 104 matches over 39 days seemed like a lot, there was plenty to be excited by in the USA, Canada and Mexico. What happens at that tournament often flows into domestic football during following seasons, but while there was much to enjoy, I hope we don’t see dynamic ticket prices, hydration breaks and ludicrously hiked-up travel prices spill into our game.

As always at the start of a new campaign, there are plenty of questions being posed. Will reigning champions Arsenal go on a run of domestic dominance? Can Manchester City fight for the title without Pep Guardiola? How will Southampton deal with the fallout from the Spygate scandal? And after their epic National League title battle, can York and Rochdale push for a second successive promotion this time around?

All that and more will be answered in the year ahead. Enjoy the season.

James

North London forever

Arsenal won their first Premier League title for 22 years - now they will start this season looking to retain their title for the first time in almost a century. Eberechi Eze has his say on the title win and upcoming defence.

Coventry City - back in the big time

Having lost in the Play-Offs two season's ago, Coventry bounced back in style last season by winning the Championship. Now they are preparing for a return to the Premier League for the first time in 25 years.

What’s changed ahead of the 2026-27 season

Enzo Maresca at Manchester City, Andoni Iraola in at Liverpool, Sunderland and Bournemouth in Europe and Lee Trundle still playing at 50. FourFourTwo give you the run down on everything to look out for this season.

Unhappy anniversary

As West Ham prepare for life in the Championship, club legend Tony Gale looks back on the club’s decade away from Upton Park and the life at the London Stadium.

Henry Winter meets Kasper Schmeichel

As the Danish keeper hangs up his gloves he speaks about his career with the renowned journalist and the terrible night that he will never forget

The Boy’s a Bit Special

Get the lowdown on the son of a Premier League icon making waves for club and country and the midfielder already making waves in the Premier League.

Around the Grounds

Former Spurs and England striker Jermain Defoe talks about his first job in management with National League side Woking.

Elsewhere, Llandudno appoint a 24-year old PE teacher as their new gaffer. And we prepare for York and Rochdale to do battle again, but this time back in the Football League.

In a brand new feature ‘Beyond the Turnstiles’ we take a trip to the Dripping Pan and tell you why it should be on your bucket list of grounds to visit.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Sir Geoff Hurst talks World Cup final hat-tricks, Georgi Kinkladze on his love for Maine Road and Neil Sulivan on being lobbed by David Beckham

The Mixer

Our latest merch round-up features Admiral’s latest kit collab, Sunderland’s new pink and black away kit, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Nike Zoom Mercurial Superfly RGN Gold and Barca’s new home kit.

We spy a 2020-21 Loch Ness in Classic Kit and let you know the TV series will be your next binge.

David Luiz answers YOUR questions

The former Chelsea, Arsenal and Brazil defender on his love for Benfica, contract mix-ups and becoming a fan-favourite at Stamford Bridge

Upfront

Think you’re a football expert? Prove it by getting 100 per cent in our Ultimate Quiz. With the World Cup now over, Jules Breach reflects on what it was like covering games for Fox Sport in Mexico and the passion the fans there show

Diego Forlan selects the games that changed his life, and the FFT crew discuss their experience of the World Cup. We also sit down with golfer Ian Poulter to discuss all things Arsenal.

Former Liverpool man Djibril Cisse hails sporting geniuses and a DJ in the People I Admire.

Perfect XI

Kolo Toure picks his ultimate XI from former teammates made up of Arsenal legends and Premier League stars

Over 140 teams reviewed and rated in our guide to the new season

Our annual 100 pages team-by-team guide is packed with everything you need to know ahead of the new season. With over 140 teams from the Premier League to the National League, this is the ultimate guide to the new domestic season.

Order the new issue with delivery included here – just select ‘July Issue 393’. Subscribe to FourFourTwo today and save! You’ll get 13 issues per year…

First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

The days of Jack Walker, Sir John Hall and Sir Jack Hayward making millions and investing them in their local football club are a distant memory. Nowadays, sovereign states and investment consortia control the top clubs.

Lower down the pyramid, it’s also changing, giving opportunities to people with no background in football, but who bring skills and expertise from their own worlds. Actors Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds have probably been the most famous example in recent times, and have taken Wrexham from the National League to the Championship.

This March, internet personality, musician, boxer and entrepreneur KSI became a shareholder of National League South side Dagenham and Redbridge. He may have a social media reach of over 80 million, but what does KSI know about football and running a club?

FourFourTwo couldn’t turn down the chance to chat with him and find out, as we heard his ambitious plans for the east London side. KSI may not be the traditional FFT cover star, but he’s the new face of football – that’s why we’ve decided to put him on the front of this magazine.

He was a great sport when we met up with him, and he even agreed to dress up in half suit, half football kit as we recreated a famous photo of Bryan Robson at Middlesbrough in 1994. Enjoy the mag.

James

KSI: From his bedroom to the boardroom

Some fans didn’t know who KSI (real name Olajide Olatunji) was when he joined Dagenham in March, but the world famous YouTuber has big ambitions. In an era of celebrity investors, he tells FFT why he wants to take the club to the Premier League and how he intends to do it.

Football’s famous owners

Ron Burgundy, rappers, Messi vs Ronaldo… you don’t have to be famous to own a club, but it helps.

Harry Redknapp has his say on Snoop Dogg

The former Tottenham Hotspur boss first moved into the world of professional football six decades ago, and says club owners have changed drastically since.

The man behind England’s 1966 glory

Sir Alf Ramsey led England to the World Cup 60 years ago, but remains misunderstood. In spite of his middle-class image, the Three Lions boss overcame racism, poverty and war to become a legend.

Return of the Cosmos

Even Pele and Raul couldn’t keep the New York Cosmos from folding twice – FFT headed to the Big Apple to find out if the iconic club’s latest comeback will be different.

Fear and loathing in Vancouver

While one historic North American club is on the way back, Vancouver Whitecaps have been battling relocation to Las Vegas, despite playing a first ever MLS Cup final last year. FFT visited Canada to investigate their troubles…

Antonin Panenka tells his story

Half a century ago, Antonin Panenka dinked in a penalty to win Euro 76 for Czechoslovakia – in his words, he tells FFT how it changed his life, and of his pride that players still imitate him.

The Boy’s a Bit Special

We get the lowdown on a Lampardian talent and Greece’s answer to Ryan Cherki in this month’s scouting report.

Henry Winter meets Leah Williamson

The respected writer speaks to England’s two-time Euros-winning captain on life at Arsenal, and why a female boss could succeed in the men’s game.

From the Vault: the murder of Andres Escobar

A week after his USA 94 own goal, Andres Escobar was murdered. A decade later, FourFourTwo headed to the crime scene to meet those impacted by his death.

Michail Antonio answers YOUR questions

The former West Ham forward on cardboard cutout celebrations, his car crash and an acrimonious exit from the Hammers.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Harrogate Town boss Simon Weaver talks about being the longest-serving manager in England’s top five tiers, and we find out about Kingstonian’s nomadic plight.

Exeter City’s best and worst include giving the world Ollie Watkins and a visit from Michael Jackson. Ambitious Brighton also reveal plans to build Europe’s first purpose-built stadium for a women’s team.

A ferry good game: We head to the Scottish island of Arran to discover the ups and downs of one of the UK’s most remote leagues.

The Mixer

Our latest merch round-up features Florian Wirtz channelling his inner Scouser, copious amounts of Puma’s next-generation foam and a cube of grass.

We spy a 1990s Southampton shirt in Classic Kit and plan out your Dortmund getaway with our Team Selection.

Upfront

Think you’re a football expert? Prove it by getting 100 per cent in our Ultimate Quiz. As the Premier League bids farewell to Pep Guardiola, TNT Sports’ Jules Breach pays tribute to the legendary Manchester City manager.

Danny Murphy selects the games that changed his life, and the FFT crew go to war over giving the National League an extra promotion spot in the latest Debate. We also sit down with musician Richard Hawley to discuss his passion for Sheffield Wednesday and Atdhe Nuhiu.

Former Manchester United man Lee Sharpe hails sporting geniuses and a fascinating scientist, while we explore some of the most bizarre half-time entertainment on offer, just in case FIFA need any suggestions for the World Cup final.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Tony Cascarino reveals Jack Charlton’s hatred of Coke, Lucas Radebe reflects on his time at Leeds and Alan Smith still struggles to wrap his head around replacing Gary Lineker at Euro 92.

Perfect XI

Ex-Aston Villa hotshot Juan Pablo Angel fills his team with Premier League and South American icons, Golden Balls included.

Welcome along to FourFourTwo's liveblog of England vs Croatia, the Three Lions' opening fixture of World Cup 2026!

• England 4-2 Croatia
• Harry Kane gave England the lead following a penalty, which needed retaking
• Martin Baturina smashes one top bins to equalise
• Kane restores England's lead with a header from a corner
• Petar Musa grabs a second for the Croatians
• Bellingham gives England the lead once again, with a driven shot beyond Livakovic
• Rashford puts the game beyond doubt with a fourth

There's just over two-and-a-half hours to go until England kick off their World Cup journey.

We're at the AT&T Stadium in Dallas for this one, as Thomas Tuchel's England face 2022's semi-finalists in Group L.

Preparation for this one has been far from ideal. Tino Livramento's injury yesterday meant a late substitution for the Three Lions, as Trevoh Chalobah got a last-minute flight out to the United States – and all of this comes off the back of England having a load of their gear stolen last week.

Still, let's hope they can evoke the spirit of Pickles in 1966, and use the robbery as a springboard to glory.

First up, Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal have an appointment with DR Congo, live from 6pm.

How well do you know England? Try our ultimate Three Lions quiz…

In case you needed reminding of what happened the last time England and Croatia met at a World Cup…

Tonight is a chance for England to get some revenge – the Three Lions have since beaten Luka Modric and co. in the Nations League and the European Championship, let's not forget.

England's record against Croatia

Remember, there's still time to play our World Cup predictor – and win £1,000 while you're at it!

England have arrived

Harry Kane wears a special World Cup patch tonight, in honour of a major achievement

You'll remember in 2018 when Harry Kane won the Golden Boot in Russia – well, to mark the occasion, FIFA have given him an embroidered patch for his England shirt sleeve. Nice.

Wh-where's the other one…?

The England team to face Croatia…

Jude Bellingham starts for England – elsewhere, it's James and O'Reilly at full-back, with Gordon starting over Rashford.

Tuchel speaks to ITV, calling it a “50/50 decision” as to who to pick at no.10 today.

“Both of them deserve to start,” says Thomas Tuchel about Bellingham and Rogers.

Croatia's XI for the game…

Dominik Livakovic

Josip Sutalo
Luka Vuskovic
Josko Gvardiol

Josip Stanisic
Luka Modric
Petar Sucic
Ivan Perisic

Martin Baturina
Petar Musa
Mario Pasalic

How important will Bellingham be tonight?

This is the Real Madrid midfielder's second World Cup – and third tournament with England altogether.

Incredibly, he's still just 22 years old. To put things into context, if Bellingham plays for his country as long as Messi's been playing for his, he could appear at the 2042 World Cup.

And if he does, he'll appear at six tournaments for the Three Lions. Mad, eh?

We've just had the anthems, we're ready to go

Via a Refcam shot we enjoyed of Turpin shaking hands with the Croatian line-up.

And we're off!

Let's go!

Three minutes in and Croatia have been the ones applying the early pressure. A first corner comes to nothing but the 2022 semi-finalists are the ones taking the game to England.

England have a first corner. Madueke takes on Josko Gvardiol, passes back to Reece James, who drills a cross. Kane latches on and a shot deflects wide.

PENALTY TO ENGLAND

Declan Rice's corner is cleared out to Madueke, who is kicked by Luka Modric. Kane with a chance to put England 1-0 up.

SAVED! But…

Harry Kane watches Dominik Livakovic save his penalty… but will it be taken again?

Referee Clement Turpin is going to order the pen to be taken again, after Gvardiol encroaches into the penalty box.

GOAL: ENGLAND 1-0 CROATIA

IT'S HARRY KANE

Kane wasn't missing a second time, was he? Great spot kick.

Should Reece James have just conceded a penalty?

The right-back appeared to be stopping Petar Musa from getting to the ball, only for Bellingham to clear. Not enough contact for a spot-kick, mind.

Hydration break, now

England have settled down a little, now. The Three Lions have had a little more possession, with Bellingham having a decent run into the Croatia half, which came to no fruition.

Croatia coming into this one a little more. Kane just had a sloppy moment where he gave the ball away, but the Croatians are starting to get a little more on the ball after the water break.

Madueke with a cross on the counter, and Bellingham is inches away from making it 2-0!

We said those late runs would be key…

Another two crosses into the box – one from James, one from Madueke – and both dealt with by Croatia. The game is fizzing nicely, with both sides showing intent. There's goals in this one.

GOAL FOR CROATIA! 1-1

It's Martin Baturina, and it's a cracker.

25 yards out and the midfielder has smashed it top bins, beyond Rice and the outstretched hand of Rice. Brilliant goal, to be fair.

GOAL! ENGLAND 2-1 CROATIA

HARRY KANE WITH A HEADER FROM A CORNER

Another look at that second Kane goal…

How important could set-pieces be at this tournament?

England have the might of Rice and Saka taking corners – and those two are the primary takers for Arsenal, who have scored more from dead balls than any other club in Europe over the past two years – but it's not the Gunners duo.

In the likes of Konsa, Burn and O'Reilly, there's plenty of height in this side, while Reece James offers a threat from free-kicks.

ENGLAND 2-2 CROATIA

The Three Lions switch off: we're going to VAR…

Goal given. Musa equalises.

HALF-TIME: ENGLAND 2-2 CROATIA

What a half.

ENGLAND 3-2 CROATIA

JUDE BELLINGHAM PUTS ENGLAND AHEAD!

We haven't even had time to tell you the second half had begun!

Bellingham smashes the ball against Livakovic: England have a corner. The Real Madrid man whips up the crowd (as if they need it).

Tuchel must have put a rocket up them.

O'Reilly misses a free header at the back post. He'll be gutted with that effort.

It's another corner. The Three Lions are purring.

England have stepped up the intensity and they're starting to batter Croatia with attacks now. That's more like it.

O'Reilly has another header, saved by Livakovic. It bounces back out to Gordon; the Croatian custodian stops again. Brilliant goalkeeping. Remains 3-2.

Kane with another double-shot; Livakovic with another double save. Kane gets a third chance; sometimes, it's kept out.

SUBSTITUTION: Modric off, Kovacic on, '57

The game's calmed down a bit. England are playing around their box a bit more. Probably not a good sign, given their defending tonight…

SUBSTITUTION for Croatia: Vuskovic and Musa off, Marko Pasalic and Matonovic on

Hydration break!

Morgan Rogers coming on, now.

SUBTITUTION FROM ENGLAND: Madueke, Rice and Gordon off; Saka, Rogers and Rashford on.

Pickford with a vital save to foil Pasalic on 75 minutes and keep it at 3-2. That's more like it from the keeper.

England have had 2.68 xG: Croatia just 0.38.

ENGLAND 4-2 CROATIA

Marcus Rashford's magic, y'know.

Harry Kane blocks the ball in England's box – Saka and Rashford race up the field and it's almost five. What an impact from those two subs, and what a performance from Sir Harold.

FULL-TIME: ENGLAND 4-2 CROATIA

And it's a win to start Group L!

So who performed and who didn't? Vote now!

Harry Kane has called it a game of two halves, with Tuchel described as giving a “speech” at half-time, of, “If we're going to lose, lose how we play”.

It was a much better second half from England. There's competition for places and it seemed like the intensity really ramped up when the Three Lions stopped worrying so much about the Croatians' attacking threat. Not to dig at Southgate, but that feels very… new.

Dominik Livakovic had a fantastic game – and he conceded four. The long-time Croatian shot-stopper kept his nation in the game with a series of saves early in that second half to restrict England to a one-goal lead.

Anthony Barry, assistant coach, spoke to ITV at half-time. Gary Neville has just claimed on ITV that he was worried that Barry's input may have been a little “vanilla”. He was wrong.

“He was absolutely fuming,” G-Nev says. “It told us a lot. I think that would have been quite forceful words, said at half-time.”

That'll be us for the night. Thanks for joining us! It's coming home, as ever.

England vs Japan match ratings:

Jordan Pickford: 6
Ben White: 6 (off, ‘58)
Ezri Konsa: 6 (off, ‘81)
Marc Guehi: 7 (off, ‘81)
Nico O'Reilly: 6 (off, ‘58)
Elliot Anderson: 7
Kobbie Mainoo: 7 (off, ‘71)
Cole Palmer: 5 (off, ‘58)
Morgan Rogers: 6
Phil Foden: 5 (off, ‘58)
Anthony Gordon: 6 (off, ‘71)

Subs
Tino Livramento: 6 (on, ‘58)
Jarrod Bowen: 6 (on, ‘58)
Lewis Hall: 6 (on, ‘58)
Dominic Solanke: 6 (on, ‘58)
Marcus Rashford: 6 (on, ‘71)
James Garner: 6 (on, ‘71)
Dan Burn: — (on, ‘81)
Harry Maguire: — (on, ‘81)

What do you think though? Choose your own England vs Japan: live match ratings…

Hello all and welcome along – it's England vs Japan in the final friendly before Thomas Tuchel names his World Cup 2026 squad.

Over the course of the next couple of hours, we're going to be Simon Cowelling the hell out of Tuchel's team (it's a term, really), as we get closer to the final 26 or however many Gianni Infantino decides to allow in North America this summer.

Have your say, too: we want you to vote for YOUR ratings. Of course, we're all going to be completely aligned and agreed by the end, right?

Without further ado, your England XI for tonight is as follows…

Injuries aside, this is actually how we expect England to line up for their first fixture at the World Cup against Croatia this summer.

Ben White is in there for Reece James, Kobbie Mainoo is starting instead of Declan Rice, and we assume that Bukayo Saka will be back for the World Cup in place of Cole Palmer – while naturally, the big news is that Harry Kane is not starting up front – you can take the boy out of the Arsenal academy (just a joke, honest). While Friday night's draw with Uruguay saw some experimentation, this line-up has nothing of the sort. Apart from in one position…

It's interesting that Anthony Gordon is stepping in up front. Or is he? Phil Foden might be a false nine, here. It'll be intriguing to see, nonetheless.

There are five players keener than most to impress

Tuchel has some major decisions to make but not all of them are set in stone – and there remains a handful of hopefuls vying for a spot in the German's final squad.

James Roberts has summarised the five remaining players who will want to use this last opportunity to earn a place in the XI against Croatia.

You have almost 10 minutes before kick-off – so spend it right.

Following Ben White's goal last week, can you name every player to have scored just ONE goal for the Three Lions since 2000?

New England kit getting its debut!

Stunnin’

Haven't got a stream for the game? Allow us to help

Here's your complete guide of how and where to see England vs Japan. Enjoy!

We're underway. Let's go!

Looks like Foden/Rogers up front for England.

A mixed start for England: confident in possession, Nico O'Reilly bringing the ball out from the back, but Japan are looking to win the ball high up the pitch and there's already been one mix-up between Pickford and Guehi. Good to iron these things out now, lads…

Foden wins a free-kick.

First chance for a set-piece (ole, ole).

Ben White getting to the byline for a cross, wins England's first corner – and then all hell breaks loose.

Two or three Lions have a shot with Japan throwing themselves in for blocks. More like it.

Czech Republic are 1-0 up on Denmark.

First blood in the qualifiers – as it stands, Soucek and the lads are heading to North America.

Ben White is an intriguing prospect for a full-back to take to the World Cup, when you think about it.

Can overlap, as he's shown already. Can build play in a back three, as he does with Arsenal. Has an existing relationship with Bukayo Saka. Can invert, too, if Tuchel wants to try any of that woke nonsense.

And as evidenced by his nonchalance on Friday night after #BooGate, he's not going to be overawed by any kind of pressure. Welcome, The New David Batty.

Marcelo Bielsa comes to Wembley on Friday night – a few days later, Tuchel is sat on the drinks box. Is there no one El Loco has influenced?

1-0 Japan. Oops.

Mitoma with the finish.

Palmer dispossessed, Konsa doesn't close it down. It's not great defending – and now we've got a drinks break for TT to lay into his players. We go again.

Anderson rattles the bar.

England have looked considerably more impressive since the water break, zipping the ball with a bit more pace. Elliot Anderson so very nearly had his first international goal, too, with Zion Suzuki getting a fingertip on the ball via the woodwork and out for a corner.

And the woodwork's hit again – this time by Ayase Ueda.

Looked like offside but Japan have a corner. England's high line foiled.

Half-time: 1-0 Japan.

No one's really putting in a strong case to be in Tuchel's first XI, here.

Here's a quiz to keep you going till the second half: can you name these 100 badges?

Some scores from around Europe…

Bosnia & Herzegovina 0-1 Italy
Sweden 2-1 Poland
Kosovo 0-0 Turkey
Czech Republic 1-0 Denmark

Aaaaand we're back for the second half.

Subscribe to FourFourTwo, and not only will you save 36 per cent, but your first issue will also be our World Cup special…

• 100-page FourFourTwo magazine
• Giant Wallchart
• 84-page supplement previewing all 48 nations

Update: Japan are decent.

The Samurai Blue have been the more lively in the second half with England looking to calm things down. Tuchel may well switch things up sooner rather than later (he needs to).

Four subs coming on for England.

Jarrod Bowen, Tino Livramento, Dominic Solanke and Lewis Hall all warming up.

Poland have equalised against Sweden. 2-2.

Keito Nakamura perilously close for the Japanese – and now we have another drinks break.

Two more subs.

Garner and Rashford on, Mainoo and Gordon off.

Elliot Anderson goes down in the box… no penalty.

Corner to England, though.

Rashford, then Bowen with a chance each. England keep the pressure on.

Maguire and Burn on, Konsa and Guehi off.

We're not going to give them ratings as they have less than 10 minutes to make an impact.

And it's over: England 0-1 Japan.

Not a great night, all in all. England were pretty poor and after a 100 per cent record in qualification, finish the March international break with a draw and a loss.

You can see more from our match ratings here.

That just about wraps things up.

Don't forget to vote, too, with your ratings and thanks for joining us!

Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘May Issue 390’. Subscribe to FourFourTwo today and save! You’ll get 13 issues per year…

First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo both look set to play in their sixth and final World Cup this summer, having each featured in every edition since the 2006 tournament in Germany, achieving superstar status in the process.

But the 2026 World Cup could be the passing of the baton to football’s next superstar: Lamine Yamal. The prodigious teenager doesn’t turn 19 until the week of the final, but with the European Championship already in his trophy cabinet, as well as a host of domestic honours with his club side Barcelona, the world really is at his feet right now.

In this issue, Spanish journalist Guillem Balague charts the winger’s rise from talented teen to world-renowned superstar, and spends time with him to get to know the person behind the headlines.

Given that Spain are currently the favourites to win the World Cup, this summer has the potential to propel Lamine Yamal to the heights of Messi and Ronaldo, or even beyond.

Elsewhere in the issue, we rank the best 50 players this season in the Football League, and as the domestic campaign draws to a close, Claudio Ranieri talks us through the most memorable and remarkable feat in the history of the Premier League, when Leicester clinched the title in 2016, exactly a decade ago. Enjoy the mag.

James

Lamine Yamal: football’s newest megastar

The winger has been in the spotlight ever since he shone for Barcelona and Spain at age 16 – Guillem Balague offers the most wide-ranging insight yet into the teen’s life…

FFT catch up with Lucy Bronze

The Chelsea defender is a national hero after her long career with the Lionesses, but even she hasn’t escaped the dark side of fame.

The top 50 EFL players of 2025/26

It’s back for another year! As voted for by FourFourTwo readers, we reveal our annual rundown of the leading players across the Championship, League One and League Two this season – including interviews with some of the Football League’s stars.

Leicester’s shock Premier League title, 10 years on

A decade ago, Claudio Ranieri led the Foxes to glory via pizza making, opera singing and longer odds than an alien encounter. In his own words, he tells FFT how they did it…

Renaissance man Endrick

The striker was hailed as the next global superstar when he signed for Real Madrid at 16 – now he’s back on form at Lyon and in the Brazil squad again. A devout Christian who believes his path in life is determined by higher powers, he tells FFT why he needed to leave the Bernabeu.

The Boy’s A Bit Special

This month: the talented defender who’s on his way to Anfield this summer, plus Bournemouth’s star duo.

Bouncebackability

Things haven’t always gone smoothly for Robert Sanchez, but the Chelsea goalkeeper is adept at overcoming adversity – after clangers at Forest Green, he became a world champion. The car enthusiast tells us his story – just don’t get him started on the rules around penalties…

Fabinho answers YOUR questions

The ex-Liverpool star on Jurgen Klopp’s Barcelona pep talk, questionable time-keeping at Monaco and meeting Jose Mourinho in his pants.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Hillsborough stalwart Liam Palmer on reaching 500 appearances for Sheffield Wednesday and what comes next for the club following relegation.

In non-league, we find out why West Didsbury & Chorlton games are must-attend events, and follow Gateshead fans on their mammoth 920-mile round trip to face Truro City. Elsewhere, a Queen’s Park fan recalls scalping Rangers and a chant inspired by The Specials in Best & Worst.

An Imp-udent rise: Lincoln were on the brink of regional football 14 years ago – now they’re considering life in the Championship.

The Mixer

Eberechi Eze plays chess with Magnus Carlsen and Louis Theroux dons a pair of neon Nike Air Max, plus fourth kits, green kits and denim kits, all in this month’s merch round-up.

Classic Kit revisits the short-lived era of two-for-one football shirts kicked off by Manchester United in the early 2000s, while Team Selection picks out the FFT crew’s top entertainment picks.

Upfront

The Ultimate Quiz challenges your knowledge of YouTube megastars and dire defences, while TNT Sports’ Jules Breach runs the rule over this season’s Premier League title race.

Brad Friedel selects the games that changed his life, we learn why Vietnam is building the world’s biggest, most ostentatious stadium and Danny Dyer tells us that son-in-law Jarrod Bowen is the governor – we’re not arguing with him.

Former Liverpool favourite and amateur sports psychologist Didi Hamann shares the four people he admires most, and FFT looks back on the night Lucas Moura shattered Ajax and sent Tottenham Hotspur to the Champions League final.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Diego Forlan talks about beating Ruud van Nistelrooy at tennis and why he had to leave Manchester United, Caroline Weir discusses her move to Real Madrid, and ex-Arsenal defender Rob Holding looks back at his FA Cup final battle with Diego Costa.

Perfect XI

Former Middlesbrough and Aston Villa man George Boateng combines Dutch team-mates with an injury-ravaged Englishman.

Order the new issue with delivery included here – just select ‘April Issue 389’. Subscribe to FourFourTwo today and save! You’ll get 13 issues per year…

First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

With January underway and 20 Premier League matchdays played, it was beginning to look as though the season was done and dusted. Nottingham Forest had just beaten West Ham to open up a seven-point gap between the two sides, while at the top, Arsenal were six points clear of Manchester City.

The fear was it could be a procession until May, with very little changing in the positions in the table that really mattered. By mid-February though, West Ham and Manchester City had narrowed those respective gaps to remind us once more that nothing is ever certain in the Premier League, before we reach the business end of the season in April and May.

In this issue of the magazine, we celebrate the footballers who make the English top flight the exciting and unpredictable league it is, as we rank the very best 50 players of the 2025-26 campaign.

There will be those who say that it’s always the same players in the list every year, but think again. Of last year’s top 10, only three even make the top 50 this time around, such has been the emergence of new stars from Aston Villa, Brentford, Sunderland and Fulham, to name just a few.

Of course, if you don’t agree with our list, then jump on social media and tell us what we’ve got wrong, but make sure you use #FFTPL50.

Enjoy the mag, and the twists and turns during the season’s run-in.

James

The top 50 Premier League players

FourFourTwo ranks the finest performers of 2025-26, from an expert drummer to a future NBA star.

The fall and rise of Palermo

Having dropped to the fourth tier in 2019, Palermo are pushing for a Serie A return after joining the City Football Group – FFT flew to the north Sicilian coast to meet boss Filippo Inzaghi, and hear why Colonel Gaddafi once tried to tempt the club to Africa.

World Cup play-offs guide

The last six places at this summer’s tournament are up for grabs this month – watch out for the unofficial world champs, a Pacific Ocean archipelago, plus a former Manchester United coach in Iraq.

Hearts’ bid to unseat Celtic and Rangers

Without a league title since 1960, the Jambos have a real chance of finishing top of the Scottish Premiership podium this term – FFT discovers how smart management and a renowned recruitment guru caught both the Old Firm giants by surprise.

The Boy’s A Bit Special

Our latest scouting report rates Newcastle’s rising star and a player born just after Zidane’s headbutt.

FFT meets Nico Williams

The winger was in huge demand after netting in Spain’s Euro 2024 final win over England, only to sign a new 10-year deal at Athletic Bilbao. FFT flew to the Basque Country to meet him, hear why he has no regrets, and discover his father’s surprise Chelsea past.

From the vault

England’s 1-0 defeat to the United States at the 1950 World Cup went down as an upset for the ages – but the dishwashing striker who scored the winning goal that day met with a terrible end.

Marcelo answers YOUR questions

The former Real Madrid full-back ponders trading Champions League glory for a World Cup win and opens up about that 7-1 defeat to Germany.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Francis Jeffers on being Robbie Fowler’s no.2 in Saudi Arabia and helping Macclesfield to an FA Cup upset against Crystal Palace.

The secret manager: Some Premier League stars look to bag coaching jobs at the top, but Dave Kitson has chosen a very different path.

A Dunfermline Athletic fan recalls an AWOL Moroccan and Victor Wanyama’s woeful debut in Best & Worst, while Ben Foster tells us about YouTube stardom and interviewing Robbie Williams.

Falling fowl of fans: Why 16 years under the ownership of Venky’s has clipped the wings of hope for Blackburn’s dwindling support.

The Mixer

This month’s top merch includes a trio of musical collabs, shoes for pundits and Paolo Maldini’s dad swagger.

Learn about the Goldie Lookin Chain link-up that got Newport County in hot water with our latest Classic Kit feature, then check out our top book, TV and comedy recommendations.

Upfront

Test your knowledge of German playmakers and penalty misses in our Quiz, and discover which European stadiums TNT Sports presenter Jules Breach adores.

Theo Walcott picks out the games that changed his life, Jorn Andersen tells us about coaching North Korea and living in the secretive state, and Cast frontman John Power explains why terrace choirs aren’t what they used to be.

We also find out why Erling Haaland’s old club are handing out increasingly eccentric man of the match prizes and look back on the night Peter Schmeichel halted Newcastle’s Entertainers.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Alex McLeish laments Birmingham’s missed open-top bus opportunity, Saul Niguez’s Champions League heartbreak and a long-awaited 1966 World Cup medal for Liverpool legend Ian Callaghan.

Perfect XI

Former Manchester United, Leeds and England winger Lee Sharpe hails a dirty finisher and a “snail-batterer”.

Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘March Issue 388’. Subscribe to FourFourTwo today and save! You’ll get 13 issues per year…

First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

There’s a scene at the end of the film version of Nick Hornby’s Fever Pitch, when Arsenal win the league at Anfield in 1989, where fans who live around Highbury spill out of their houses, congregating outside the ground to celebrate and sing.

That title triumph came after an 18-year wait, following their previous success in 1971. If or when Arsenal win the title this season, the wait will have been 22 years. How will supporters celebrate this time around?

Chances are that it will be more social media based, but for the players, winning the title would bring an end to years of being the nearly men – it would probably be more relief at first, then elation second. Always the bridesmaids, finally the bride. Their current run of three successive second-placed finishes is a joint record for the English top flight.

In this issue, Guillem Balague sits down with Arsenal skipper Martin Odegaard to discuss his career, his time in London and this season’s title charge. The Norwegian confidently, but importantly not arrogantly, tells us that he believes this will be the Gunners’ year.

Back in late April 2004, the UK number one single when Arsenal last sealed the Premier League was F**k It (I Don’t Want You Back) by Eamon. Should they win the title this season, it’s pretty likely that particular song won’t make the playlist. Enjoy the mag.

James

Exclusive Martin Odegaard interview

The Arsenal captain dreams of lifting the Premier League trophy in May, before heading to his first World Cup with Norway – he tells Guillem Balague why he’s proud to have reached this point after the madness of Madrid.

Arsenal’s rise back to the top

Leading both the Premier League and the Champions League by New Year, the Gunners could justifiably start to argue that they’re Europe’s best team – finally, after near misses aplenty, they need to convert that belief into titles.

Behind the scenes of Goal!

It may have received mixed reviews from critics, but football film Goal! has remained a cult hit, especially on Tyneside. Lead actor Kuno Becker tells FFT how he overcame a lack of playing skills – as well as two broken ankles – to be given the life-changing role.

James Maddison’s Tottenham sacrifice

Knee injuries have taken the midfielder to dark places since he helped Spurs reach Bilbao – he tells FFT why it was all worth it to make history.

Football’s most bizarre injuries

FFT looks back at some of the strangest incidents ever to put footballers on the sidelines – if you’re in Norway, watch out for a moose on the loose.

Why Liam Rosenior was destined for the dugout

Team-mates always suspected he’d become a top coach – via studies of the great Jose Mourinho, Chelsea’s new boss has been preparing for his big moment for decades.

Ancient balls and a Spice Boys suit

A new book celebrates artefacts from Manchester’s National Football Museum – some quirky, some poignant.

From Guernsey to the Premier League

Alex Scott started his career making unusual adventures to the mainland with Guernsey FC – it led to a first England senior call-up in November, although the Covid pandemic could easily have dashed his hopes, as he explains to FFT.

The Boy’s A Bit Special

This month’s scouting report features Bayern Munich’s history-maker and a young Kazakh bound for Chelsea.

FFT unearths Modric 2.0

Spain are the world leaders in player development – we joined David Villa at one of their top youth events to uncover their secrets, scout the next Modric and hear why a garage worker’s son angered Iker Casillas’ mum.

Nani answers YOUR questions

The former Manchester United winger explains why David Moyes failed to succeed at Old Trafford, tells us about growing up alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Sporting and reminisces on Portugal’s Euro 2016 glory.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Walsall manager Mat Sadler on bouncing back from last season’s promotion heartbreak and making the club a force in the Midlands.

Scotland’s culture club: Remember David Bellion? Fifth-tier Caledonian Braves have hired the ex-Red Devil to craft their identity.

Scunthorpe United and iconic manager Nigel Adkins are in the spotlight for Best & Worst, while we also catch up with former Premier league keeper David Stockdale, now the owner of new non-league phoenix club Farsley FC.

If Carlsberg did vets teams: Wythenshawe Vets have been steamrolling opponents in their recreational league thanks to a squad boasting more than 1,000 top-flight appearances, including Stephen Ireland and Emile Heskey.

The Mixer

Get your hands on Lukas Podolski’s Crocs, a briefcase of balls and retro-inspired goalkeeping kits in our round-up of the best football merch.

In Classic Kit, we learn how comedy legend Eric Morecambe helped Adidas break the mould with an iconic Luton Town number. Plus, avoid the housework with FFT’s top TV, podcast and book recommendations.

Upfront

Can you name the Premier League Golden Boot winners born in Yorkshire? Answer that and more to prove you’re a football genius in our Ultimate Quiz, then relive Macclesfield’s historic FA Cup win over Crystal Palace in the latest column from TNT Sports presenter Jules Breach.

Pepe Reina picks his red-card swansong in Games That Changed My Life, and our Big Debate argues over the best Manchester United manager since Alex Ferguson.

In People I Admire, Gordon Strachan waxes lyrical about his Hibs idol, the King of Rock and Roll and a US civil rights icon. We also find out why some of the world’s best set-piece coaches have come through Danish side FC Midtjylland and ask Blue singer Antony Costa about his sweary Spurs passion.

Discover the life of a football concierge – from voice notes for dogs to rescuing forgotten anniversaries – then look back at how Neymar sparked Barcelona’s historic Remontada against PSG.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Bolo Zenden talks about his pride at making Middlesbrough history, Phil Bardsley jumps into a mosh pit with Steve Bruce and Radja Nainggolan rages about Roberto Martinez.

Perfect XI

Former England goalkeeper Carly Telford selects a team littered with legendary lionesses and overseas stars.

Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘February Issue 387’. Subscribe to FourFourTwo today and save! You’ll get 13 issues per year…

First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

Happy New Year and welcome to 2026! This year, all roads lead to New Jersey for July’s World Cup final – nothing is certain in life, but it looks likely to be the last global tournament for two of the best players ever, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Both have graced the game at the very highest level, but time catches up with us all – Ronaldo turns 41 this February, while Messi celebrates his 39th birthday during the World Cup itself. It’s likely to be their last hurrah, but don’t discount either of them lifting the trophy on July 19 – Portugal and Argentina will both be strong contenders in North America.

Ronaldo also has his sights set on another big milestone – becoming the first player in history to officially score 1,000 career goals. The Portuguese forward has been a phenomenon since he first broke through at Sporting in 2002 – pretty much from that day on, his goalscoring figures have been off the charts, from Manchester United to Real Madrid and beyond.

That scoring form has continued since he made his high-profile move to Al Nassr, exactly three years ago – in this issue, we look at how Ronaldo has moved ever closer to a remarkable milestone.

Elsewhere, we also chart football’s rich list and crown the wealthiest person in the sport, as well as taking a trip to LA to see the best place on Earth to watch the beautiful game on a big screen. Enjoy the mag.

James

Cristiano Ronaldo chases 1,000 goals

Three years since Ronaldo joined Al Nassr, he’s laser-focused on hitting another milestone – 2026 will see him play his last World Cup and further his quest to become the first player to officially score 1,000 career goals. As those who know him tell FFT, he won’t be retiring until he’s done it.

Granit Xhaka: “I’m a football freak”

After helping Bayer Leverkusen win their first Bundesliga title, Xhaka has been key in Sunderland’s bid to become the first promoted side for three years to avoid an instant Championship return – he explains why Mikel Arteta saved his career.

The football rich list

FFT counts down the 50 wealthiest people associated with the beautiful game – featuring the founder of MLS, a Kazakh in Wycombe and a winger in Thailand’s top tier…

The unlikely trendsetter

Tony Pulis hasn’t always been universally popular, but he’s the unexpected inspiration for a new top-flight trend this season – he tells FFT why he’s happy to be a style icon, right down to a surprise acting debut.

Hollywood meets Sunderland

LA’s planetarium-inspired Cosm has been acclaimed as the world’s best place to watch football on a big screen – following in the footsteps of Danny DeVito, FFT headed there to learn what all the fuss is about.

The Boy’s A Bit Special

We feature Fulham’s phenom, the next Pedri and a Balkan obelisk in our latest scouting report.

Henry Winter meets James Garner

The revered football writer chats to an Everton star who’s been in the form of his life and is eyeing up a place in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad.

From the Vault: The Lutz Pfannenstiel story

Aberdeen’s new sporting director had arguably the maddest career in history – back in 2011, he told FFT all about it, from falling for the Crazy Gang’s pranks to keeping a penguin in his bathtub.

Michael Laudrup answers YOUR questions

The much-loved Dane talks about winning Barcelona’s first European Cup, crossing the El Clasico divide and why he has no regrets about missing Denmark’s Euro 92 triumph.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

WSL legend Jordan Nobbs on her Newcastle homecoming, an up-and-down England career and the ticking off she received from an Arsenal great.

World’s best sup-paw-ters: Scottish club Cowdenbeath have become the first to sell season tickets for your canine chum.

Rotherham diehard Luke Howdle remembers a Wembley wondergoal, an expensive flop and the Chuckle Brothers in Best & Worst, while Margate player-boss Ben Greenhalgh tells us how he went from non-league to Jose Mourinho’s Inter and back again.

You can’t win anything with kids: We look back at 10 years of academy teams playing in the EFL Trophy with former England striker Emile Heskey.

The Mixer

Gifted some cash from your relatives over Christmas? Get ready to spend it in this month’s merch round-up, featuring Lego’s build-your-own World Cup, retro German gear and the Adidas Predator’s latest evolution.

Upfront

Prove your status as a football brainiac with this month’s quiz before reading why TNT Sports’ Jules Breach is revelling in the magic of the FA Cup this season.

Jermaine Pennant shares the games that changed his life, while team FFT hash out the Premier League’s best ever January transfer in the big debate. Comedian Maisie Adam reveals her wedding gift from Mauricio Pochettino and why she let Georgia Stanway ink her in My Football.

Ange Postecoglou at Watford?! It’s one of many bold FFT predictions for 2026… One-Man Show relives David Beckham’s masterclass against Greece, Sol Campbell tells us which theoretical physicist he’d love to challenge at chess, and we prepare for the maiden OFC Pro League season.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Gaizka Mendieta explains why he fell out with Gareth Southgate at Middlesbrough, John Carver tells the story of how he snuck Bobby Robson out of hospital for fish and chips, and Michael Mols opens up on having major surgery for a brain tumour.

Perfect XI

Brian McClair selects a side filled with Manchester United and Celtic legends, plus a beloved commentator.

Sit down with an annual subscription's worth of magazines and the covers will tell you the tale of the year. It's especially true in football, where a year really is a long time and 12 months can sometimes feel like a lifetime ago.

The covers of FourFourTwo captured the essence of 2025. Line them up one after the other and you'll be reminded of a year of highs and lows, heroes and villains, and the fact that even in the year before a World Cup there's no calm before the storm.

We met with greats of the game past and present, from a player about to win the Ballon d'Or to Gary Lineker as he left the BBC and Gazza, a true England icon. Here's to many more in 2026.

In January, we took the temperature at Manchester United

Our first 2025 cover star was Ruben Amorim, head coach of Manchester United. He was just a few months into the job after leaving Sporting CP and the waters have been choppy.

United finished 15th in the Premier League in 2024-25. If they'd won the Europa League again, Amorim would have taken them into the Champions League at the very first opportunity. Instead, they lost the final and must work their way back into Europe the hard way.

It might have been so different. United chose to stick with Amorim and progress has been slow. With a pre-season under his belt and a vast sum spent on transfers, the margin of error is tightening.

February was our moment to herald the Premier League champions elect

2025 should have been Liverpool's year and by February we all knew it. FourFourTwo assessed the Reds' Premier League title charge in their first season under Arne Slot.

They went on to win the league in style amid joyous scenes at Anfield but the well documented tragedy inflicted on the city in the aftermath was a devastating coda. The heartbreaking loss of Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, will be felt at Liverpool for years.

Slot hasn't yet replicated Liverpool's title-winning form in 2025/26 and a spat with Mohamed Salah prior to the Africa Cup of Nations only served to amplify the sense of turbulence in what looks a doomed title defence.

In March, we met the man taking England to the World Cup

When we caught up with England boss Thomas Tuchel, there was little indication of how the Three Lions' World Cup qualifying campaign would unfold.

Straightforward but uninspiring victories appeared to be the order of the day before Gareth Southgate's successor freshened up his team and ignited a dominant autumn conclusion.

Tuchel wasn't hired to qualify and he knows it. He has the simplest brief in football: take England where they've never been before and win a World Cup in another country.

FourFourTwo spent time with a legend in April

Gary Lineker left the BBC in the summer of 2025 after presenting Match of the Day for 26 years. We met the former England marksman on the cusp of a new life as he prepared to swap BBC Sport for full-time podcast entrepreneurship.

Lineker's exit from the national broadcaster was overshadowed by a controversy over a social media post but his body of work over the better part of three decades marks him out as a true sports broadcasting legend.

With a bumper Netflix deal keeping him on our screens daily through the World Cup next year, Lineker's durability as one of Britain's foremost presenters continues.

We predicted the future in May

Mohamed Salah staring down Newcastle United's Alexander Isak was supposed to be about two of the Premier League's most dangerous attacking players competing for individual recognition.

Instead, Isak's year was about to take a turn as he angered Newcastle and their supporters by forcing a summer transfer to join Salah at Liverpool in exactly the ways fans dislike the most.

The Sweden striker hasn't had the most prolific of starts at Anfield. Salah's outspoken reaction to being dropped isn't the way we imagined his year would end either.

June paved the way for European Championship glory

Our summer began with a question on the cover: Can the Lionesses defend the title? The answer, of course, was yes. Sarina Wiegman led England to a second successive European Championship win.

Michelle Agyemang was magnificent, Hannah Hampton defiant. Lucy Bronze treated her own injury on the pitch. Chloe Kelly grinned her way through the biggest pressure penalties of the tournament.

England went to Switzerland with the absences of Mary Earps, Millie Bright and Fran Kirby dominating the headlines. They made nearly every game look difficult. Time and again, they had big characters for big moments when it mattered.

We were mad fer it in July

We marked the summer of Oasis with a rock 'n' roll special issue covered by the Gallagher brothers and leading on the story of the band and their relationship with Manchester City.

Of course, we couldn't call it a rock 'n' roll special without celebrating football's contribution, so that's exactly what we did.

We told the stories of Robin Friday and George Best, Ruud Gullit and Elton John's Watford, and we met with Dimitar Berbatov to talk about being a cult footballer and style icon.

In August, we ushered in a new season and a World Cup year

At the start of 2025-26, we previewed the season ahead and rated every team in England's top five men's divisions, the WSL and the Scottish Premiership. We'll come back to those at the end of the season but it's fair to say a lot has changed!

We caught up with former Premier League referee Jeff Winter and treated readers to an exclusive interview with Chelsea's exciting young Brazilian star Estevao.

John Terry answered your questions too, and we had a very close look at the backroom difficulties engulfing Cardiff City. The Bluebirds reached the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup and the top of League One, but we're still keeping an eye on the Welsh capital.

We met the world's best footballer in September

Everyone knows that Ballon d'Or voting is heavily influenced by the major international and continental honours. In a year without a World Cup or European Championship, the Champions League is the best predictor of individual accolades.

So, when we sent Guillem Balague to meet Ousmane Dembele of first-time Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain, we knew we were talking about the future best player in the world.

Dembele was in the end a clear winner ahead of Lamine Yamal and Vitinha, his PSG teammate. The French striker and his manager, Luis Enrique, were also recognised by FIFA earlier this month.

In October, we assessed players on the move including the biggest transfer of all

With the summer transfer window closed and the smoke beginning to clear, we took a step back to evaluate the major moves made by every Premier League club.

Isak returned to the cover of FourFourTwo, now in a Liverpool shirt, as we looked in detail at the big spending of the Reds, Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal as well as the lower outlays of other Premier League clubs and, in some cases, the financial restrictions affecting their plans.

We met with Troy Deeney and and the new owners of Morecambe, whose very existence had been under threat while the Premier League transfer bonanza was underway.

We chilled with a world champion in November

Conference League winners Chelsea didn't start the Club World Cup in the United States as favourites but they did end it as champions thanks to the instant impact of new signings and Enzo Maresca outmanoeuvring Luis Enrique in the final.

The impact of that extra summer tournament on players like Cole Palmer is yet to be fully understood.

The Chelsea playmaker is working his way back into form after early-season injury issues. With a World Cup now just months away, he'll be a welcome addition to Tuchel's weaponry.

Gazza opened up to us in December

Paul Gascoigne is one of a kind. The former England midfielder played the game in his own way, achieving heights few others have managed on the pitch but causing problems for himself along the way.

Gazza's issues away from football are no secret. Fans are always pleased to hear when he's doing well, so we were chuffed to find him in good form when we linked up with him on the south coast.

He was in a generous, honest mood. The result was his most revealing interview ever and an essential read for fans of one of England's best.

We ended 2025 by dishing out some awards

FourFourTwo ended the year with a brand new awards issue and another treat for fans of Chelsea.

Our exclusive interview with Joe Cole was every bit as disarmingly honest as our catch-up with Gazza, and we spoke to Joao Pedro about his blockbuster summer move to the Blues.

Frank Lampard updated us on Coventry City's evolution and the Championship promotion battle, and former Man United pair Morgan Schneiderlin and Nemanja Matic look back on their time at Old Trafford.

Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘December Issue 385’. Subscribe to FourFourTwo today and save! You’ll get 13 issues per year…

First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

The past 12 months have been glowing in ’90s nostalgia. The Gallagher brothers buried the hatchet and put on some of the biggest gigs in decades, You Bet! and Gladiators are back, and Pamela Anderson helped revive The Naked Gun.

In English football in the ’90s, there was no-one more iconic or famous than Paul Gascoigne. For better or worse, the decade belonged to him.

His difficulties off the pitch over the years have been well-documented, but when FFT met up with him on the south coast recently, Gascoigne was in a good place – happy, charming and generous. He acknowledges and owns his flaws, but knows how talented and adored he was and still is.

In 1990, the streets ground to a halt when Gascoigne returned home from the World Cup. Three-and-a-half decades on, cars, vans and lorries still beep their horns as he crosses the road, just hoping for a wave from a football icon. Bursting with so many stories, both funny and sad, this magazine contains the ultimate interview with Gazza.

If that’s not enough for you, Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt also took time out of their schedules to chat with us this issue. Elsewhere, the one and only Kenny Dalglish stops by for a natter about his career, Tom Cairney discusses his 10 years at Fulham and new Nottingham Forest manager Sean Dyche tackles your questions head on. Enjoy the mag, it’s a cracker.

James

Paul Gascoigne exclusive! The ultimate interview

Many years since our last chat, FFT spent two weeks with Gazza to get to know him as he is now. Conversations veered between the serious and the comical – from the dark side of fame, to a win bonus for a mouse…

The story of Saipan

Roy Keane and Mick McCarthy produced one of football’s most dramatic stories when they ripped into each other in the middle of the Pacific Ocean in 2002 – now the saga is being retold in a new movie that hits the cinemas in January.

We meet two Manchester United legends

After starting a podcast together, Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt and Paddy McGuinness sat down with FFT for a no-holds-barred conversation about United’s golden years, kisses from Rita Ora and Peter Kay’s Three Lions faux pas…

Cape Verde’s World Cup superheroes

The island nation became the second smallest country ever to qualify for the World Cup, thanks to their victory over Eswatini – we flew to Cape Verde to witness it first hand and find out how they’ve made history.

Steve Evans, fitness fanatic

In his latest interview for FourFourTwo, renowned scribe Henry Winter meets much-maligned managerial veteran Steve Evans, who has undergone a dramatic weight transformation.

All hail King Kenny

Kenny Dalglish was a legend as both a player and a manager, but he remains as modest as ever. We speak to the Liverpool and Celtic great about a remarkable career that brought trophy after trophy.

Toronto prepares for the World Cup

Donald Trump will ensure that the US gets most of the attention during next summer’s World Cup, but Canada is just as excited – FFT flew to Toronto to find a demonic hawk and a city ready for its chance on the big stage.

Tom Cairney’s Fulham memories

The midfielder has become a Cottagers legend, reaching a decade at the club. As Cairney tells us, there have been plenty of ups and downs – quite literally…

The Boy’s A Bit Special

Get the lowdown on Real Madrid’s new teenage superstar, a diminutive Porto wonderkid and Leeds’ latest Gray.

Sean Dyche answers YOUR questions

The new Nottingham Forest manager on guiding Burnley into Europe, pretending to scoff worms and performing the oscillating sprinkler on the dance floor.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Cardiff boss Brian Barry-Murphy talks about his sporting heritage, working with Manchester City’s young talent and his Bluebirds mission.

The new Edgar Davids? We meet Andrew Tod, the bespectacled Dunfermline teenager who has been emulating the Dutch legend.

Whatever will be, will be: The Maccabees guitarist Felix White talks about the FA Cup adventure he took for his new book.

A two-team league? That’s just Scilly! Located 45 kilometres off the Cornish coast, the Isles of Scilly boast one of the world’s strangest leagues and face a unique set of challenges.

The Mixer

We go coast-to-coast for snazzy Stateside soccer shirts, revive the snood fad and check out the latest rendition of the iconic Adidas Predator boots in this month’s merch round-up.

Upfront

Prove your football nerd credentials with our tricky brainteasers in The Ultimate Quiz and read all about the night Ibrahimovic became Zlatan in One-Man Show, our new series covering the greatest solo performances.

Comedian and Spurs fan Rhys James talks about his Tottenham tears, being snubbed by Alan Shearer, and his obsessions with Andriy Shevchenko and Simon Davies in My Football.

Are the fun police ruining celebrations? TNT Sports presenter Jules Breach takes up the mantle for passion and spontaneity in football for her latest column. Elsewhere, Arsenal and Lionesses legend Rachel Yankey chooses the games that changed her life.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Commentator Martin Tyler discusses being the voice of football for over 50 years, former West Ham man Felipe Anderson tells us how he used to go incognito on the Tube and Earl Barrett talks about Oldham’s famous cup runs of the ’80s and ’90s.

Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘November Issue 384’. Subscribe to FourFourTwo today and save! You’ll get 13 issues per year…

First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

Twelve league titles across three different clubs, plus countless more domestic, European and world trophies as a manager, suggest that Pep Guardiola doesn’t get a lot wrong.

Even the great are susceptible to errors of judgment now and again, though, or maybe it was a case of having an abundance of riches at his disposal. When Manchester City decided to sell 21-year-old bit-part player Cole Palmer to Chelsea for £42.5m in September 2023, after his 19 Premier League appearances for the club had produced no goals, they may have initially felt that they’d got the better of the deal.

Two years later, Palmer struck his 38th Premier League goal for Chelsea this September, on only his 72nd appearance, and he has now become key for both club and country. In this issue, we chart his rise.

Another player who’s been on the up, following Palmer to the Etihad exit door this summer, has been exciting midfielder James McAtee. We chat to the new Nottingham Forest signing about captaining England to Under-21 glory and why he chose life at the City Ground – as well as following in the footsteps of a famous family member.

Also in this issue, we see the return of the very popular feature The Boy’s A Bit Special – we’ve long been inundated with requests to bring it back, so we’ve done just that, bigger and better than before. Enjoy the mag.

James

Trophies, Trump and chippy chips

Cole Palmer has become one of the Premier League’s greatest cult players, aided by big-game displays and viral stardom. Former players tell us how playing twice a day helped him to the top, and why he reminds them of Cantona and Gazza.

“It was tough telling Pep I wanted to leave, but it was the right time”

James McAtee followed Cole Palmer by leaving Manchester City this summer, aiming to become a Premier League star, too. After his £30m move to Nottingham Forest, England’s U21 Euros skipper tells us about Bratislava, backflips… and Justin Bieber.

The Boy’s A Bit Special returns

Our scouting series is back from its sabbatical. To celebrate, we look at three decades of youngsters who we tipped for the top. Some predictions were more successful than others…

Stars of the future

Arsenal prodigy Max Dowman and Liverpool starlet Rio Ngumoha are the first picks for the revamped Boy’s A Bit Special in 2025/26.

“I was joining Barcleona, then Betis came in – only later did I realise it was a world-record fee”

Denilson’s skill made him a cult hit with fans, earning him a £21.5 million transfer to La Liga. In his own words, he tells his story, via relegation in Seville, World Cup Glory with Brazil and a car park snub at Bolton…

The 10 most picturesque football stadiums on the planet

Featuring a medieval fortress and a tribute to Ottmar Hitzfeld, FFT ranks the world’s most stunning stadiums – we’ll be impressed if you’ve visited any.

“Being in a goal race with Messi has been surreal”

Former EFL star Sam Surridge has spent 2025 duelling with the greatest player of all time in a bid to finish as the top scorer in MLS. He spoke about his stateside move with Henry Winter for FFT.

Big in Japan

As the J.League’s last ever summer season reaches its conclusion, FFT headed to the Far East to watch Japan’s most supported team – after an appearance at the Club World Cup they’ll never forget.

Behind the scenes at the Ballon d’Or

We travelled to Paris to peek behind the curtain of football’s biggest awards ceremony. On a night when a PSG player wins, it gets rather lively…

From the vault: George Weah’s presidential U-turn

Three decades ago, FFT labelled George Weah as Liberia’s future head of state, just after he’d been voted as the best player in the world for 1995. We revisit the interview he gave us, as he insisted politics wasn’t for him…

Jari Litmanen answers YOUR questions

The ex-Liverpool midfielder and Ajax legend opens up about his unexpected Champions League glory, the story behind his Anfield shirt number and helping to raise Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Ellie Roebuck talks about bouncing back from suffering a stroke at 24, training with Barcelona’s stars and returning to the WSL with Aston Villa.

“You’ll never sing that”: How having the longest name in world football has opened doors for one Welsh club.

Walsall feature in this month’s Best & Worst, as a Saddlers fan reminisces about football’s most underrated goal and Paul Merson’s ill-fated spell in the dugout.

Coupe de England: What if the FA Cup copied its French counterpart and invited clubs from Britain’s overseas territories? We pick eight bizarre clubs that could feature.

Return of the masters: After 14 years on hiatus, the legendary Masters Football tournaments are making a comeback.

The Mixer

A shirt with some bite, Umbro's latest retro threads and Kylian Mbappe's glasses of the future in our latest round-up of top football merch.

Upfront

Think you know your football? Take our Ultimate Quiz and test yourself on UEFA Cup legends, teenage sensations and the alphabet. In her latest column, TNT Sports’ Jules Breach looks at how managers are using the lessons learned from the first season of the revamped Champions League.

Arsenal hero Ray Parlour reflects on four games that changed his life, while Izzy Christiansen names the four people she admires most. We also look at the legendary surnames on the teamsheet for Italian Serie D side Sanremese, and argue whether the Championship play-offs should be increased from four to six teams in our heated debate.

In My Football, singer-songwriter Amy Macdonald reveals her tournament curse with Scotland, getting praise from Messi and meeting Denis Irwin at a skiing championship.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Long-throw specialist Rory Delap talks about being a junior javelin ace and Israeli panic rooms, Florent Sinama Pongolle tells us why he was left in tears after the Miracle of Istanbul, and Colin Cooper fills us in on Chinese football’s grand plans and being left out of the League Cup final on his birthday weekend.

Perfect XI

West Ham cult hero Bobby Zamora selects a blend of England legends, Fulham favourites and a mad-footed midfielder for his dream team.

Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘October Issue 383’. Subscribe to FourFourTwo today and save! You’ll get 13 issues per year…

First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

Whatever is happening around the world, and whatever the knock-on effect to everyone’s lives, football remains immune. Cost of living crisis? Energy bills rising? Despite it all, Premier League clubs spent £3 billion on transfers this summer.

The lowest spenders in the league were Fulham, paying £34.5m for two permanent signings, while at the other end of the scale came champions Liverpool, who splashed more than £440m on a host of new additions. Alexander Isak was the biggest and last of those signings, as the striker joined from Newcastle for a British record £125m on deadline day.

Isak arrived with a phenomenal goalscoring record, finding the net 62 times in 109 appearances for the Magpies – Arne Slot & Co will hope he can continue that form on Merseyside, as Liverpool look to defend their Premier League crown as well as challenging for the Champions League. In this issue, we look at Isak’s rise from Sweden to Anfield.

Elsewhere, Troy Deeney opens up about his life on and off the field, and we join Crystal Palace on their first-ever European adventure in Norway.

While clubs in the Premier League were busy spending record amounts, National League side Morecambe were wondering whether they would still exist past the summer. Thankfully they’re still here, and we speak to the people who helped to save them. Enjoy the mag.

James

The inside story of Alexander Isak

Many disagreed with the way Alexander Isak secured a British record switch to Liverpool, but there’s no doubt about the £125m man’s ability. Those who have followed his career tell FFT why he could even outshine Mo Salah.

The best Premier League transfers this summer

Top-flight clubs spent more than ever before in the latest transfer window – we assessed some of the highest profile signings made away from Anfield, including Gyokeres, Eze, Sesko and more.

“If I hadn’t gone to jail, I’d be dead now”

After drunkenly stumbling into professional football, Troy Deeney spent 13 weeks in prison, but emerged to become a Watford legend. He still has ambitions for a successful managerial career, too – just don’t ask him about Dale Vince…

Moose sightings on Palace’s continental debut

Crystal Palace fans made the most of a first European away day despite their contentious demotion – FFT joined them in Norway as they serenaded boats and got sweary about UEFA and Evangelos Marinakis.

A Homeless World Cup lifeline

A few days before Crystal Palace’s visit to Norway, the country hosted a life-changing competition like no other.

From the vault: Ronaldinho introduces Lionel Messi

Twenty years ago FFT visited Barcelona to chat with Ronaldinho. While there, we also got the chance to meet an 18-year-old Lionel Messi for what may have been his first in-depth interview with an English language publication.

Morecambe: back from the brink

The Shrimps narrowly avoided being thrown out of the National League in August – new owners and the first Sikh boss in the top five tiers tell FFT how they plan to rebuild the club after the chaos.

English football’s first overseas star

A whole host of foreign players arrived in the Premier League this summer – all of them are following in the footsteps of Chilean striker George Robledo, who found the net with regularity for Newcastle more than 70 years ago.

Pedro answers YOUR questions

The former Barcelona and Chelsea wideman talks about playing under Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho, World Cup glory with Spain and how Antonio Conte revolutionised the English game.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Max Aarons on stepping into the Old Firm pressure cooker after swapping Bournemouth for a loan spell at Rangers.

Non-league’s A-listers: With James Beattie calling the shots and the son of a World Cup winner in the dugout, National League South side AFC Totton are going places.

In Best & Worst, Burton Albion fan Jack Stout recalls horrific facial hair, pants goalkeeping and a legend of the Staffordshire streets.

View from the terraced houses: No Ticket? No problem! Six times fans found ingenious ways to cheer on their teams.

The toughest opponent: Since being diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2022, former Ipswich Town and Sunderland forward Marcus Stewart has vowed to keep fighting.

The Mixer

Our latest merch selection features snazzy kits for you and your Romania-supporting pooch, a gorgeous throwback football and the finest boots that’ll turn you from Ali Dia into prime Beckham (disclaimer: some talent required).

Want to get something in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell

Upfront

Know your mega-money signings and Scottish mascots? Prove it in our latest quiz. Then get a behind-the-scenes peek at how the Premier League’s new half-time interviews work from TNT Sports’ Jules Breach.

Former Aston Villa and Colombia striker Juan Pablo Angel tells us about the games that changed his life, and we debate which top-flight club, other than Liverpool, had the best transfer window.

In My Football, NFL star Olu Fashanu talks about idolising Wayne Rooney and his envy-inducing shirt collection, while Stuart Pearce picks an England legend and punk rock icon in People I Admire. We also visit a remote corner of the USA to witness the Marshall Islands play their first international matches.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Millie Bright on why she had no regrets about missing the Lionesses' latest Euros triumph – despite shouting at the TV all summer. We also chat with Hector Bellerin about his time at Arsenal and making history with Real Betis, then reminisce about the formidable Lisbon Lions with Celtic hero Jim Craig.

Perfect XI

Matthew Upson retreads his breakthrough days at Arsenal as he picks a dream team filled with Highbury legends and international talent.

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Welcome to the Champions League 2025/26 league phase draw, LIVE!

• For the first time ever, six English teams to look out for.
• Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea are in Pot 1.
• Arsenal are in Pot 2.
• Tottenham Hotspur are in Pot 3.

We're all set for the Champions League draw at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco. Here are the pots:

Pot 1

• Paris Saint-Germain (France)
• Real Madrid (Spain)
• Manchester City (England)
• Bayern Munich (Germany)
• Liverpool (England)
• Inter Milan (Italy)
• Chelsea (England)
• Borussia Dortmund (Germany)
• Barcelona (Spain)

Pot 2

• Arsenal (England)
• Bayer Leverkusen (Germany)
• Atletico Madrid (Spain)
• Benfica (Portugal)
• Atalanta (Italy)
• Villarreal (Spain)
• Juventus (Italy)
• Eintracht Frankfurt (Germany)
• Club Brugge (Belgium)

Pot 3

• Tottenham Hotspur (England)
• PSV Eindhoven (Netherlands)
• Ajax (Netherlands)
• Napoli (Italy)
• Sporting CP (Portugal)
• Olympiacos (Greece)
• Slavia Prague (Czech Republic)
• Bodo/Glimt (Norway)
• Marseille (France)

Pot 4

• Copenhagen (Denmark)
• Monaco (France)
• Galatasaray (Turkey)
• Union Saint-Gilloise (Belgium)
• Qarabag (Azerbaijan)
• Athletic Bilbao (Spain)
• Newcastle United (England)
• Pafos (Cyprus)
• Kairat (Kazakhstan)

Naturally, all the focus this season is on PSG – and we caught up with the main man himself, Ousmane Dembele

The Ballon d'Or favourite is the cover star for this issue's FourFourTwo magazine – here's where to get it…

And we're about to begin… get ready folks

You can watch the Champions League on YouTube now!

Here's how and where to watch the Champions League in case you need reminding…

Where to watch the Champions League in the UK
TNT Sports and its streaming platform Discovery+ (£30.99/month) still hold the lion's share of Champions League rights – 187 of the 204 games, to be precise. The other 17 (one per match week) are on Amazon Prime Video (£5.99/month). For the second season in a row the BBC are providing a free Champions League highlights show.

Where to watch the Champions League in the US
CBS is the exclusive Champions League broadcaster in the US, with coverage on the CBS Sports Network and CBS Golazo cable channels, as well as the Paramount+ streaming platform ($7.99/month), which has a feed for every single game. CBS' coverage – which features Jamie Carragher, Thierry Henry, Micah Richards, and host Kate Scott – has been described as "a breath of fresh air" by FourFourTwo deputy editor Matthew Ketchell.

Can you watch the Champions League for free?
You can for certain games in certain countries. In Ireland, two free-to-air broadcasters have Champions League rights. RTÉ shows one match per week on RTÉ 2 and the RTÉ Player, while Virgin Media has eight games and puts half of them out for free on Virgin Media Two and Virgin Media Play. Select games are also shown for free in Belgium (VTM Go) and Turkey (TRT).

Watch the Champions League from anywhere
A good VPN will ensure you can access your usual Champions League streams wherever you are in the world, disguising your device's location and tightening your internet security at the same time. NordVPN is the best, say our friends at TechRadar, and you can get 70% off right now.

We begin by celebrating Chelsea

The Blues are getting an award for being the first club to win all UEFA competitions.

For the first time ever, Champions League football comes to Kazakhstan

So naturally, FourFourTwo went along to the competition's easternmost fixture…

While we watch a VT starring Zlatan Ibrahimovic, why not play a quiz about players who actually won the Champions League? Just tell us every British player to have played in the final…

We all know the club that no one wants to face, don't we?

In the words of the late, great David Bowie, the stars are out tonight

We're now welcoming Kaka to the stage to assist with the draw

Who will do best of the English sides this season?

We're nearly ready to begin.

Giorgio Marchetti now comes to the stage to explain what's going to happen.

So here's how it works.

Each team will play eight matches against eight different opponents, with four matches at home and four away. This replaces the old format where teams played three opponents home and away for a total of six games. Now we have 36 teams – who are divided into four pots based on their UEFA club coefficient ranking, with Pot 1 also including the defending champion.

During the draw, a computer program determines each team's eight opponents. Each team will be assigned two opponents from each of the four pots, with one match at home and one away for each pot. There are a couple of key rules for the draw: teams from the same country cannot be drawn against each other, and a team can be drawn against a maximum of two clubs from the same national association.

After the league phase is complete, the knockout stage begins. The top eight teams in the final league table automatically qualify for the round of 16. Teams that finish from 9th to 24th place will enter a two-legged knockout play-off to determine the other eight teams for the round of 16.

Any team that finishes 25th or lower is completely eliminated from all European competitions for the season – and no, they don't drop down to the Europa League.

Once the round of 16 is set, the entire knockout bracket is pre-determined. This means there's no further draw for the quarter-finals and semi-finals. The top eight teams from the league phase are seeded and will face the winners of the play-off matches. The bracket is structured so that the top two teams from the league phase cannot meet each other until the final.

No, YOU'RE still thinking about how Chelsea's fancy award looks like the Intertoto Cup ‘certificate’

Aaaaaand we start at the very beginning, with Pot 1.

A very good place to start.

Zlatan draws the first ball. Here we go.

Bayern Munich are first out.

Bayern Munich

Chelsea (H)
Paris Saint-Germain (A)
Club Brugge (H)
Arsenal (A)
Sporting (H)
PSV (A)
Union Saint-Gilloise (H)
Pafos (A)

Chelsea

Barcelona (H)
Bayern (A)
Benfica (H)
Atalanta (A)
Ajax (H)
Napoli (A)
Pafos (H)
Qarabag (A)

Real Madrid

Manchester City (H)
Liverpool (A)
Juventus (H)
Benfica (A)
Marseille (H)
Olympiacos (A)
Monaco (H)
Kairat (A)

Inter Milan

Liverpool (H)
Borussia Dortmund (A)
Arsenal (H)
Atletico Madrid (A)
Slavia Prague (H)
Ajax (A)
Kairat (H)
Union Saint-Gilloise (A)

Borussia Dortmund

Inter (H)
Manchester City (A)
Villarreal (H)
Juventus (A)
Bodø/Glimt (H)
Tottenham Hotspur (A)
Athletic Bilbao (H)
Copenhagen (A)

Barcelona

Paris Saint-Germain (H)
Chelsea (A)
Eintracht Frankfurt (H)
Club Brugge (A)
Olympiacos (H)
Slavia Prague (A)
Copenhagen (H)
Newcastle United (A)

Paris Saint-Germain

Bayern Munich (H)
Barcelona (A)
Atalanta (H)
Bayer Leverkusen (A)
Tottenham Hotspur (H)
Sporting CP (A)
Newcastle United (H)
Athletic Bilbao (A)

Manchester City

Borussia Dortmund (H)
Real Madrid (A)
Bayer Leverkusen (H)
Villarreal (A)
Napoli (H)
Bodø/Glimt (A)
Galatasaray (H)
Monaco (A)

Bayer Leverkusen

Paris Saint-Germain (H)
Manchester City (A)
Villarreal (H)
Benfica (A)
PSV Eindhoven (H)
Olympiacos (A)
Newcastle United (H)
Copenhagen (A)

Arsenal

Bayern Munich (H)
Inter Milan (A)
Atlético Madrid (H)
Club Brugge (A)
Olympiacos (H)
Slavia Prague (A)
Kairat (H)
Athletic Club (A)

Atalanta

Chelsea (H)
Paris Saint-Germain (A)
Club Brugge (H)
Eintracht Frankfurt (A)
Slavia Prague (H)
Marseille (A)
Athletic Club (H)
Union Saint-Gilloise (A)

Benfica

Real Madrid (H)
Chelsea (A)
Bayer Leverkusen (H)
Juventus (A)
Napoli (H)
Ajax (A)
Qarabağ (H)
Newcastle United (A)

Club Brugge

Barcelona (H)
Bayern Munich (A)
Arsenal (H)
Atalanta (A)
Marseille (H)
Sporting CP (A)
Monaco (H)
Kairat (A)

Eintracht Frankfurt

Liverpool (H)
Barcelona (A)
Atalanta (H)
Atlético Madrid (A)
Tottenham Hotspur (H)
Napoli (A)
Galatasaray (H)
Qarabağ (A)

Juventus

Borussia Dortmund (H)
Real Madrid (A)
Benfica (H)
Villarreal (A)
Sporting CP (H)
Bodø/Glimt (A)
Pafos (H)
Monaco (A)

Villarreal

Manchester City (H)
Borussia Dortmund (A)
Juventus (H)
Bayer Leverkusen (A)
Ajax (H)
Tottenham Hotspur (A)
Copenhagen (H)
Pafos (A)

Marseille

Liverpool (H)
Real Madrid (A)
Atalanta (H)
Club Brugge (A)
Ajax (H)
Sporting CP (A)
Newcastle United (H)
Union Saint-Gilloise (A)

Tottenham Hotspur

Borussia Dortmund (H)
Paris Saint-Germain (A)
Villarreal (H)
Eintracht Frankfurt (A)
Slavia Prague (H)
Bodø/Glimt (A)
Copenhagen (H)
Monaco (A)

Bodo/Glimt

Manchester City (H)
Borussia Dortmund (A)
Juventus (H)
Atlético Madrid (A)
Tottenham Hotspur (H)
Slavia Prague (A)
Monaco (H)
Galatasaray (A)

Sporting

Paris Saint-Germain (H)
Bayern Munich (A)
Club Brugge (H)
Juventus (A)
Marseille (H)
Napoli (A)
Kairat (H)
Athletic Bilbao (A)

Olympiacos

Real Madrid (H)
Barcelona (A)
Bayer Leverkusen (H)
Arsenal (A)
PSV Eindhoven (H)
Ajax (A)
Pafos (H)
Kairat (A)

Ajax

Inter (H)
Chelsea (A)
Benfica (H)
Villarreal (A)
Olympiacos (H)
Marseille (A)
Galatasaray (H)
Qarabağ (A)

Slavia Prague

Barcelona (H)
Inter Milan (A)
Arsenal (H)
Atalanta (A)
Bodø/Glimt (H)
Tottenham Hotspur (A)
Athletic Bilbao (H)
Pafos (A)

PSV

Bayern Munich (H)
Liverpool (A)
Atlético Madrid (H)
Bayer Leverkusen (A)
Napoli (H)
Olympiacos (A)
Union Saint-Gilloise (H)
Newcastle United (A)

Napoli

Chelsea (H)
Manchester City (A)
Eintracht Frankfurt (H)
Benfica (A)
Sporting CP (H)
PSV Eindhoven (A)
Qarabağ (H)
Copenhagen (A)

Athletic Club

Paris Saint-Germain (H)
Borussia Dortmund (A)
Arsenal (H)
Atalanta (A)
Sporting CP (H)
Slavia Prague (A)
Qarabağ (H)
Newcastle United (A)

Qarabag

Chelsea (H)
Liverpool (A)
Eintracht Frankfurt (H)
Benfica (A)
Ajax (H)
Napoli (A)
Copenhagen (H)
Athletic Bilbao (A)

Monaco

Manchester City (H)
Real Madrid (A)
Juventus (H)
Club Brugge (A)
Tottenham Hotspur (H)
Bodø/Glimt (A)
Galatasaray (H)
Pafos (A)

Galatasaray

Liverpool (H)
Manchester City (A)
Atlético Madrid (H)
Eintracht Frankfurt (A)
Bodø/Glimt (H)
Ajax (A)
Union Saint-Gilloise (H)
Monaco (A)

Newcastle United

Barcelona (H)
Paris Saint-Germain (A)
Benfica (H)
Bayer Leverkusen (A)
PSV Eindhoven (H)
Marseille (A)
Athletic Bilbao (H)
Union Saint-Gilloise (A)

Pafos

Bayern Munich (H)
Chelsea (A)
Villarreal (H)
Juventus (A)
Slavia Prague (H)
Olympiacos (A)
Monaco (H)
Kairat (A)

Copenhagen

Borussia Dortmund (H)
Barcelona (A)
Bayer Leverkusen (H)
Villarreal (A)
Napoli (H)
Tottenham Hotspur (A)
Kairat (H)
Qarabağ (A)

Kairat Almaty

Real Madrid (H)
Inter Milan (A)
Club Brugge (H)
Arsenal (A)
Olympiacos (H)
Sporting CP (A)
Pafos (H)
Copenhagen (A)

Phew.

Some exciting ties to look forward to, then, with plenty of final rematches.

1962: Real Madrid vs Benfica
1972: Ajax vs Inter Milan
1997: Dortmund vs Juventus
2012: Chelsea vs Bayern
1998, 2017: Real Madrid vs Juventus
2018: Real Madrid vs Liverpool
2020: Bayern vs PSG

So what game are you looking forward to most?

Aside from the big ones, there's a nice ‘derby match’ worth watching.

Cypriot outfit Pafos travel to Greece to face Evangelos Marinakis' Olympiacos, as the Champions League heads to the Mediterranean. That's a nice little fixture.

We're done here. Thanks for joining us – back tomorrow all over again for the Europa and Conference League!

Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘September Issue 382’.

Subscribe to FourFourTwo today and save! You’ll get 13 issues per year…

First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

Ousmane Dembele has enjoyed highs and lows already in his career, but becoming only the sixth Frenchman to win the Ballon d’Or would undoubtedly be the crowning moment. After helping Paris Saint-Germain to become the undisputed kings of Europe during the 2024-25 campaign – Dembele was the jewel in their crown, and the Ballon d’Or is now rightly judged on a seasonal basis – the forward is understandably the odds-on favourite for the gong.

Journalist, author and pundit Guillem Balague sits down with Dembele in this issue for an exclusive chat about his career, the past 12 months and what winning the Ballon d’Or would mean to him.

If Dembele is the King of Europe, then the Queen is now unquestionably Chloe Kelly. Yet again it was Kelly who was there at the decisive moment, as the Lionesses defended their Euros title this summer. In this magazine, we look at the career of one of football’s ultimate big-game players.

Elsewhere in this issue, John Obi Mikel tells the extraordinary tale of how it looked like he had officially signed for Manchester United, only for the midfielder to snub them in favour of a move to Chelsea.

With the new campaign now underway, all footballers have undergone a rigorous pre-season, but just how tough is it? FourFourTwo made the trip to Cambridge United to find out (spoiler: it was hard!).

Enjoy the mag.

Exclusive Ousmane Dembele interview

Ousmane Dembele is the favourite to win the France Football award next month, after helping PSG become European champions. Guillem Balague talks to the Frenchman to find out how he bounced back after troubled times at Barcelona.

The greatest Champions League teams ever!

PSG’s record victory in last season’s final in Munich confirmed their place among the very best sides the competition has ever produced. Find out where they rank among our all-time top 20 teams.

The Champions League’s easternmost fixture

As Central Asia prepares to be represented at the World Cup for the first time, FFT visited the region to witness a European match near the Chinese border.

The Lionesses’ big-game player

Chloe Kelly shot to the top of the Sports Personality of the Year odds at the Euros. The Bobby Zamora superfan has used determination forged as a child to recover from misery and conquer the continent with both club and country.

Football’s maddest transfer saga

As a teenager, John Obi Mikel became embroiled in an infamous tug of war, with Manchester United and Chelsea both claiming they had signed the midfielder. In his own words, he explains how it all unfolded, via secret flights and a showdown meeting with Sir Alex Ferguson.

FFT tackles pre-season training

Invited to spend a day training at Cambridge United, we weren’t going to win any fitness awards, but would our efforts impress the gaffer Neil Harris?

The Thomas Frank story

Spurs’ new boss almost quit football as a youth coach, then left Brondby when his chairman criticised him online under a pseudonym. Now he’s a Champions League manager. We dive into his story from almost quitting the game, to coaching in the Champions League.

Greenland’s seven-day season

The territory has recently had to deal with Donald Trump’s advances, plus rejections by both CONCACAF and UEFA. FourFourTwo headed to capital Nuuk in August 2016 to witness the oddity of the world’s shortest league campaign. We relive the tale.

Javier Hernandez answers YOUR questions

The former Manchester United, West Ham and Mexico marksman fields questions on getting to grips with Fergie’s Scottish twang, two bouts of Moyes misery, Premier League heartbreak and meeting LeBron James.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

New Reading owner Rob Couhig talks about his ambitions for creating a new chapter in Royals history, why Premier League games should be played in the US and how he’d fix English football.

Score goals, get signed: Have Swindon Town unearthed the next Jamie Vardy? We meet non-league hotshot Jake Tabor as he looks to emulate the Leicester legend’s rise.

In Best & Worst, lifelong Livingston fan Calum Brown recalls silky Spaniards, shady Italians and a comedian that couldn’t hit a barn door.

The Tour at 60? Unbelievable, Geoff: Ex-England star Geoff Thomas finished all 21 stages of the Tour de France for the seventh time this summer to raise money for a leukaemia charity.

The Ebbsfleet experiment. In 2008, fans from around the world teamed up to buy a non-league club – what could possibly go wrong? After some initial success, pretty much everything did...

The Mixer

This month’s must-have merch round-up features retro goodness from Hong Kong, the height of corner-shop culture and a fashion collab that’ll get you a spot of Bovver.

Want to get something in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell

Upfront

Ex-Inter goalkeeper Julio Cesar recalls the games that changed his life, while Jules Breach looks back at the Lionesses’ Euros success and how it was viewed in the US.

Battle the brainteasers in our latest quiz with questions about golden boots, Golden Boys and managers called Keith, then flip over to My Football and find out why golf star and Forest fan Lee Westwood wouldn’t leave Jimmy Bullard in charge of his clubs.

In People I Admire, former England No.1 David James picks Gareth Southgate and a Tube artist, plus we debate whether English football’s new independent regulator will really make a difference.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Saido Berahino talks about being DNA tested when he arrived in the UK and a former West Brom chairman who made his mum cry, Katie Zelem tells us why she swapped Champions League for Championship to join childhood club Manchester United, and cult Costa Rica hero Bryan Ruiz reminisces about storming the 2014 World Cup’s Group of Death.

Perfect XI

Shot-stopper Tim Krul drafts former Newcastle team-mates, Premier League stalwarts and dynamite Dutch internationals into his dream team.

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Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘Season Preview Issue 381’

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First, a message from our editor, James Andrew:

Football, much like life, is about the journey for many, not the destination. Each season, only a handful of supporters get to celebrate winning a league or a cup, but millions more go on the 10-month adventure of highs and lows. From famous cup wins to shock away defeats on a Tuesday night miles from home, it’s all very much part of the experience of being a football fan.

The lows make the highs feel better, and even if those highs don’t lead to anything in the end, enjoy every moment that happens along the way – snatching victory from the jaws of defeat in stoppage time, earning the derby day bragging rights, causing a cupset or beating the team at the top of the league. They are all moments to savour.

In this issue of the magazine, we bring you the original and ultimate preview to the season, with 140 teams analysed and rated in England and Scotland, as well as everything to look out for on the continent. We hope you enjoy this magazine, and the 2025/26 season ahead.

Finally, like everyone in the entire football world, we were shocked and saddened by the deaths of brothers Diogo Jota and Andre Silva, not long before this special issue of FourFourTwo went to press. The thoughts of all of us here are with their family and friends, as well as everyone at their respective clubs, Liverpool and Portuguese side Penafiel.

James

The legendary Season Preview supplement

All the clubs (140) previewed, from Premier League, Championship, League One, League Two, non-league, Women's Super League and Scottish Premiership. Views from prominent fans, informed predictions and guides to the campaign to come – it's our world-famous Season Preview supplement for you, the fans, brought to you with assistance from the fans!

In with the new

From Berkshire’s biscuit lovers, to Dutch fish baskets, we assess the stories that will make this season one to remember. For one side, though, the football is secondary to honouring a fallen friend who will never walk alone

Netflix and THRILL

After a fall captured in all its miserable detail by Sunderland ’Til I Die, the Black Cats are back in the top tier – so we look back on an epic journey, aided by the documentary’s stars

John Terry answers YOUR questions

“I don’t regret wearing full kit to lift the Champions League trophy – we got a letter from UEFA, saying I had to do it!”

John Terry answers reader questions. Yes, he was asked about the full-kit, the Abou Diaby head kick and the Champions League penalty miss. No, we didn't ask about Wayne Bridge.

Nottingham Forest's European dominance revisited

With continental competition set to return to the City Ground this term, FFT relives the story of how Old Big ’Ead captured Old Big Ears and then retained it the following season

Exclusive Estevao Interview!

At 18, Chelsea new boy Estevao has already thrilled crowds at Palmeiras – the winger talks to FFT about his move to England, and needing a translator app to converse with Cole Palmer...

Crisis in Cardiff

Sunderland have overcome the woes that saw them drop to League One – now it’s the Bluebirds’ turn to endure life in the third tier

Jordan have done it!

Unfancied Jordan has qualified for the tournament for the first time ever – FFT headed to the country’s capital to witness the exuberant celebrations

On the continent 2025/26

Erik ten Hag has been showing off his new-found ability to smile since joining Bayer Leverkusen – and at long last, Hamburg are finally back in the top flight

Upfront

We pay tribute to Diogo Jota, and columnist Jules Breach hails England’s Under-21s, after hosting live coverage of their summer glory.

Comedian and actor Alan Davies talks My Football, specifically his beloved Arsenal, meeting his cup final heroes and the best advice he received from Arsene Wenger.

Step out of your comfort zone and attempt to get 18 out of 18 in our monthly quiz (not many can).

Gordon Strachan tells us about the five games that changed his life – two of which were 6-0 and 5-0 defeats!

FourFourTwo staffers Chris Flanagan and Ed McCambridge debate if all three promoted clubs will be relegated yet again.

Finally, one of our best exclusives of the year saw us interview Myles Lewis-Skelly's mum, Marcia, who has set up a new platform to support parents of emerging footballers.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Still No.1 for both Hearts and Scotland, 42-year-old goalkeeper Craig Gordon tells us he is as determined as ever – not least to secure a place at the World Cup…

Telecommunications project manager Gary Lockyer pipped the country’s best to last season’s FA Cup Golden Ball Award – now he’s ready to go again.

In Best and Worst it's Port Vale's turn. BBC Radio Stoke’s Phil Bowers recalls Gareth Ainsworth magic, hoodwinking Warnock and Mourinho’s bestie…

Taking in a game at every Premier League and EFL ground is a Herculean task – let alone doing it in one season. We speak to Daniel Storey who 'did the 92' in a single season.

After going up for the sixth time in his career last season, helping Doncaster out of League Two, veteran EFL striker Billy Sharp tells FourFourTwo exactly how it’s done

In the Players Lounge this month…

Pat Nevin tells FourFourTwo how his Chelsea team-mates branded him a 'weirdo', Martin Skrtel discusses Premier League heartache, Gerrard’s infamous slip and why he dropped the skinhead look post-Liverpool, and the first goalkeeper to stop an FA Cup final spot-kick, Dave Beasant, explains how shocked Princess Di was at Dennis Wise’s swearing…

The Mixer

Shirts, capsules, boots, a chess board fashioned out of iconic footballs and some more shirts. Another showcase of football gear and merch you don't need, but definitely want!

Want to get something in The Mixer? DM Art Director, Anth Moore

Nightmare XI

In a flip of the script, ex-Premier League ref Jeff Winter picks the most awkward and annoying players he officiated…

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Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘July Issue 380’.

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First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

Growing up as a teenager in the ’90s, my two obsessions were football and music – specifically Fulham and Oasis. Back then, Fulham were a lower-league team beginning to rise and Oasis quickly became the biggest band on the planet.

In August 1998, my two worlds collided when Manchester City came to Craven Cottage on a balmy Friday night – sat behind me in the boxes at the back of the old Hammersmith Terrace were Liam and Noel Gallagher, behaving like true rock stars and trading insults with the home fans.

I found myself in an odd position that my teenage brain struggled to deal with. In front of me were 11 men that I idolised, behind me were two men that I worshipped – and they were on opposing sides. Fulham won 3-0 and by the end of the night a new hero emerged: a German striker by the name of Dirk Lehmann, who bagged a brace.

Football and music are as important to me now as they were then – as we discover in this issue, Manchester City and football were always going to be core to Oasis’ identity, too.

Elsewhere, we tell the stories of other rockstar footballers – including the greatest player you never saw, Robin Friday – as well as remembering the mercurial George Best’s post-Manchester United career and Elton John’s years owning Watford. Enjoy the mag.

James

Oasis x Man City: The masterplan

In 1994, a legendary photographer shot some iconic portraits for a soon-to-be legendary band. As Oasis’ reunion tour begins, the snapper and others explain how football was at the heart of their supersonic rise.

The finest player you never saw

Wild child Robin Friday was a pro footballer for less than four years, and dead before he was 40. But his legend lives on, thanks to his skills and his antics – from squeezing Bobby Moore’s testicles to impersonating a policeman.

Greatest rock ‘n’ roll players ever

Some footballers were just quintessentially rock ’n’ roll, be they music buffs, style icons or hellraisers – or all of the above…

George Best’s weird world tour

The icon’s Old Trafford departure aged 27 paved the way for a decade of globe-trotting and drama, as everybody tried to snap up the former Ballon d’Or winner... with mixed results.

Elton John: The Watford years

The late Oli Phillips reported for the Watford Observer from 1968 to 2005 – prior to his passing, he gave FFT the fascinating inside story of a rock ’n’ roll superstar’s love affair with his club…

Dimitar Berbatov exclusive

With all the nonchalance of a rock star, the Bulgarian frontman was a cult figure during a career taking in Leverkusen, London, Manchester, Monaco and more. He tells FFT how he became a style icon, via pig bladders and spaghetti westerns.

Ruud Gullit: Chelsea catalyst

Thirty years ago this summer, the swaggering Dutch great brought sexy football to Stamford Bridge and began Chelsea’s trophy-winning era – even if toe-breaking blizzards tended to make him angry.

How Arsenal conquered Europe

No English women’s club side had been European champions since the Gunners themselves in 2007 – their journey back to the top owed much to smart recruitment, huge crowds and crazy comebacks…

Christian Vieri answers YOUR questions

The former Atalanta, Inter, Lazio and Italy marksman discusses his love of cricket, dining out with Ronaldo, World Cup controversy and why he told Atletico Madrid to keep their Ferrari.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

John Askey, the manager of the National League’s first ever Cornish club, talks big ambitions and seeing his own letter of dismissal get printed before his eyes…

Scotland’s stadium swap: Hamilton Academical and Clyde will host games in each other’s grounds in 2025/26, after a series of increasingly ludicrous events.

In Best & Worst, lifelong Southend fans Liam Ager and Piers Hewitt reminisce about Big Phil’s jitters, Cristiano’s struggles and some Stan Collymore genius.

Wrexham’s rise? A load of Cobblers: Sixty years ago, Northampton enjoyed their sole top-flight campaign after romping to three promotions in five years.

Gary Neville: “The greatest thing I’ve ever done”. At their very own university, the former full-back and Class of ’92 pals are teaching students about the business of football, including data analysis and player recruitment – with a little help from Salford City. He explains all...

The Mixer

Oasis-inspired merch dominates our selection of snazzy football stuff – including the training top Liam Gallagher donned at Maine Road in 1996 – while Nike’s Hypervenom revamp and Werder Bremen’s anniversary kit also feature.

Want to get something in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell

Upfront

Neil ‘Razor’ Ruddock names the games that changed his life, while Jules Breach pays tribute to the many underdogs who had their days in 2024/25.

Swot up on your knowledge of last season by nailing our quiz questions about Spurs, Salah and the Saudi Pro League, then peruse My Football where TV and radio presenter Johnny Vaughan remembers coating off Lionel Messi at Camp Nou and letting Rafa Benitez look after his kids on holiday…

Elsewhere, former Chelsea and Scotland ace, and ardent music fan, Pat Nevin lists Thom Yorke among the people who’ve inspired him down the years.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Ray Houghton reveals his regret at not scything down Michael Thomas in 1989’s legendary title decider against Arsenal at Anfield, Jackson Irvine hails the festival-like atmosphere on matchdays at St Pauli, and Paul McGregor recounts fixing Brian Clough’s drinks and becoming a rock star as 'the Britpop Footballer'.

Perfect XI

England and Angel City midfield engine Katie Zelem compiles a worldwide side of European champions, World Cup winners and the odd blast from the past.

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Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘Summer Issue 379’.

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First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

Three summers ago, the Lionesses captured the public’s imagination and attention when they defeated Germany at Wembley to win the Euros.

The day of the final, I remember sitting in a London pub where the game was on in the background. As the minutes ticked by and more people took interest, additional TVs were switched on as England pushed for glory, and when Chloe Kelly poked home her extra-time clincher, the whole place erupted.

Since then, Wembley has seen the ‘sold out’ sign slapped on the door for multiple Lionesses fixtures, while WSL crowds continue to soar with numerous top-tier stadia hosting matches. So, as another competition beckons, the women’s game has another opportunity to grab the hearts of fans.

In this issue, we speak to five members of Sarina Wiegman’s side – golden boot-winning Beth Mead, Georgia Stanway, Ella Toone, Fran Kirby and Alessia Russo – who are hoping to defend their crown in Switzerland. We also chat to Wales star Jess Fishlock, who at 38 years young will lead her nation out at their first major tournament, almost two decades on from her debut. Enjoy!

James

Euro 2025 Guide

Get clued up on the Swiss showpiece with an extra 36-page supplement, also featuring our tips for the golden boot and 25 reasons to love Euro 2025.

Massive Wallchart

Track the Lionesses’ progress from Zurich to St Gallen and beyond courtesy of our colossal poster. You can even fill in each completed group table as you go.

England: Long may they reign

For the first time since 1970, an England senior team will attempt to defend their title. The Lionesses haven’t had things all their own way since that wondrous Wembley day at Euro 2022, but they’re determined to retain their crown.

Wales: The wait is over

It’s been 19 years since Jess Fishlock made her debut for Wales – now, at 38, she’s led them to their first major tournament, and is eyeing a Euros record…

Spain: Just let us play

La Roja’s World Cup joy was overshadowed by off-field chaos – this time, they, including fit-again Alexia Putellas, want their football to do the talking.

Sweden: The next step

Chelsea winger Johanna Rytting Kaneryd is Sweden’s reigning player of the year – after bagging bronze Down Under in 2023, she fancies an even better medal.

Sheva tells his story

Andriy Shevchenko fled the Chernobyl disaster to become the world’s best footballer – in his own words, the Ukrainian icon relives a career inspired by Valeriy Lobanovskyi’s clocks and Ian Rush’s boots, and explains why president Volodymyr Zelensky can always count on him.

Club World Cup crib sheet

Everything you need to know about the American extravaganza, from Barry Norman and crocodiles to chinwags with John Terry and David James. After so much scepticism, can it establish itself as one of football’s prestigious events?

From The Vault: 1985

The Heysel disaster in Belgium brought to an end 11 weeks of turmoil, in which 96 football fans went to watch the sport they loved but never came home. Forty years on, FFT recalls the tragic inspiration for a new fan dawn.

The rise of the Basque Country

Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad have gone deep in Europe in recent times, by mining fertile local talent pools. In a four-day trip to the Spanish region, FFT visits those clubs and more to learn how quarries in Euskal Herria continue to thrive.

Owen Hargreaves answers YOUR questions

The former Bayern Munich, Manchester United and England midfielder spills the beans on European glory, injury heartache and hurtful jibes from Cherie Blair.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

The Crazy Gang’s last man standing, Dean Lewington, discusses his remarkable, record-breaking longevity, MK Dons retirement and the split that shook football.

Manchester’s other breakaway club: FC United may hog the limelight, but they’ve been around nowhere near as long as Maine Road FC...

In Best & Worst, diehard Falkirk fans James and David Maxwell celebrate Kevin McAllister, sinking Paolo Di Canio’s Celtic and Brockville’s stinky loos.

Fleetwood, India, Nepal: Four-time EFL promotion-winning boss Simon Grayson is enjoying South Asia, but hopes the journey will lead to a job back home...

I wish I was a baller: Several ex-pros have had that wish granted in the new Baller League – they share their experiences of the six-a-side competition.

The Mixer

Our latest round-up of football’s must-have merchandise includes Kaka’s Gordon Gekko-style trench coat, Nurnberg's anniversary shirt, Milan’s groundbreaking women’s collection and the Salah-endorsed watch that’ll set you back £800,000.

Want to get something in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell

Upfront

Ex-Chelsea and Brazil man Juliano Belletti names the games that changed his life, while Jules Breach reflects on the impact of the Lionesses’ Euro 2022 win.

Put your football knowledge to the test with our quiz about Italian talismen and Brazilian goal machines, then peruse My Football where badminton Olympic medallist Gail Emms talks dodging Shearer shots and her mum’s Azteca heroics.

Elsewhere, we debate if Wrexham’s rapid rise through the leagues is a fairytale.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Paul Dickov revisits Manchester City’s last-gasp play-off comeback at Wembley, Egil Ostenstad describes his ‘hat-trick’ against Manchester United and the magic of Matt Le Tissier, plus Liam Ridgewell remembers irking Sir Alex Ferguson.

Perfect XI

Former Nottingham Forest marksman Stan Collymore speaks up for Steve Chettle and insists Lars Bohinen suited his style better than Jamie Redknapp.

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Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘June Issue 378’.

Subscribe to FourFourTwo today and save! You’ll get 13 issues per year…

First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

Making predictions is a mug’s game – and that is never more true than this term. If anyone claims they predicted back in August that Nottingham Forest would be above Manchester City going into the final stretch of the season, they’re a liar. Just like Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur being in the bottom half of the table, it’s been an unpredictable campaign.

So, as we run the rule over the best players in the Premier League for 2024-25, there are undoubtedly some names who wouldn’t have been in the conversation at all last summer. Players from Brighton, Brentford, Bournemouth, Forest and Fulham make the grade, whereas there’s little room for Manchester United and Spurs representatives. As with all these sorts of rankings, they’re open to debate, so let us know what you think on social media using #FFTPL50.

Elsewhere, David Beckham turns 50 this month – we talked to former team-mates and people in the game, Harry Kane included, to offer their thoughts on Golden Balls as he morphs from footballer to owner.

Duncan Ferguson cut a rather intimidating figure on the pitch, but FFT plucked up the courage to speak to him and pass on readers’ questions. 

Plus, 20 years on from that famous night in Istanbul, we relive Liverpool’s Champions League final triumph over Milan with Stevie G, Carra & Co. Enjoy.

James

Top 50 Premier League players

From warhorses to Wor History-Makers, FFT ranks a half-century of talent from 2024-25 – has your leading man made the cut?

Elliot Anderson: ‘Geordie Maradona’

The midfield maestro reflects on Nottingham Forest’s incredulous campaign after swapping St James’ Park for the City Ground last July.

Bruno Guimaraes talks Toon triumph

Newcastle’s Brazilian skipper reveals how Eddie Howe masterminded the Magpies’ historic League Cup final victory to end their trophy drought.

Goodbye to Goodison Park

Just shy of its 133rd birthday, Merseyside’s Grand Old Lady hosts its final Everton match this month – English football’s last link to a bygone era will go with it…

Demba Ba’s Dunkerque spirit

The minnows have been a sensation this season, pursuing promotion to Ligue 1 and facing the mighty Paris Saint-Germain in a Coupe de France semi-final. FFT went along to see it – along with supporters from, er, Grimsby?!

‘Miracle of Istanbul’, relived

Liverpool’s victory over Milan remains the most remarkable final in Champions League history – in the 20 years since, Steven Gerrard, Jamie Carragher and plenty more key protagonists have reminisced to FFT…

Pro ballers turned whistle-blowers

FFT headed to Warwick to meet the 10 ex-professional footballers aiming to make it as match officials – via a World Cup and a stint as a US Open golf caddy.

Happy 50th birthday, Becks

As ‘Golden Balls’ hits the Big 5-0, FFT talks to old team-mates, and Harry Kane, to hear untold tales, from busting bleep tests to white-tie-and-diamond parties...

Duncan Ferguson answers YOUR questions

The former Everton marksman tackles your questions about prison stints, headed hat-tricks, climate change and his tips to deter burglars. It's a cracker.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Exeter gaffer and ex-Scotland defender Gary Caldwell discusses spooking Forest, Sir Bobby Robson’s advice and getting the better of David Trezeguet…

Stenny’s Norse support: Thirty years after taking Stenhousemuir to their hearts, nutty Norwegians are crossing the North Sea to cheer on a promotion quest.

In Best & Worst, lifelong Rochdale diehard Dean Smith remembers Keith Hill’s pink pants, vanishing hair tricks and the legendary Craig Dawson.

Football Pools relaunched: The staple of British football culture once turned fans into millionaires – now the Pools are benefiting from a digital reboot.

Wringing the Belles: Red tape has put Doncaster Belles on the brink of the fifth tier. What next for the women’s game’s former giants?

The Mixer

AC Milan’s in-house vodka, New Balance’s fruity Furon footwear, the latest Jude Bellingham boots, a neat initiative from Swedish side AIK and a delightful San Diego Loyal shirt make the latest showreel of football’s most sought-after stuff. 

Want to get something in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell

Upfront

Ex-Blackburn captain Tim Sherwood names the games that changed his life, while Jules Breach reveals her successes of the Premier League season.

Put your football knowledge to the test with our quiz about beach balls, monkeys and Lionesees, then peruse My Football where Geordie singer-songwriter and Newcastle fan Andrew Cushin recalls offering Shay Given a job.

Elsewhere, two of the team debate whether Trent Alexander-Arnold should be cherished as Liverpool royalty if he leaves Anfield for Real Madrid on a free.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Ludovic Giuly explains what it was like watching Lionel Messi emerge at Barcelona and toppling Arsenal in the 2006 Champions League Final, while Ben Foster describes winning the League Cup with Manchester United and Birmingham, and Roberto Sensini opens up about clinching the Scudetto at Lazio and losing Diego Maradona to a drugs ban at the 1994 World Cup.

Perfect XI

Thomas ‘Der Hammer’ Hitzlsperger fuses a who’s who of Premier League all-stars with some favourites from his Germany and Bundesliga days.

Subscribe to FourFourTwo today! Guarantee the finest football stories and interviews dropping on your doorstep every month.

Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘May Issue 377’.

Subscribe to FourFourTwo today and save! You’ll get 13 issues per year…

First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

Monday, June 11, 1990 was the first time I saw Gary Lineker play. His goal gave England the lead against the Republic of Ireland at Italia 90, in a 1-1 draw. I was six at the time and don’t remember much else about the game, but his further strikes against Cameroon and West Germany made him a hero in my fledgling years as a football fan.

Saturday, August 14, 2004 was the first time Lineker presented Match of the Day with my team, Fulham, as a top-flight club. A draw at Manchester City was the first time I’d seen our highlights preceded by the famous theme music and Lineker’s links. It felt like we’d made it (we’d been promoted three years earlier, but ITV had the rights until 2004).

Sunday, May 25, 2025 will be Lineker’s final broadcast on MOTD after 26 years in the hotseat. In my time watching the programme, there have been only two permanent presenters – Des Lynam being the other – so it will be strange not hearing Lineker’s trademark puns.

He’s not disappearing, though. He’ll continue to present live football for the BBC and his thriving Goalhanger production company top the charts with their podcasts – including The Rest is Football, which he fronts. In this issue, Lineker talks us through his career from poacher to presenter to podcaster. Enjoy.

James

Gary Lineker: The Podfather

After 26 years, the former England marksman steps down as Match of the Day host next month, just as his audio empire goes from strength to strength. In an exclusive chat with FFT, the national treasure dissects his three-part career via trunks, tanks and tweets.

From The Vault: Italia 90 rewind

Thirty-five years have passed since the lowest-scoring World Cup finals, yet the chronic lack of goals didn’t stop it spawning big-stage heroes. As well as Gary Lineker, the likes of Lothar Matthaus, Roger Milla and Toto Schillaci shone and later recounted their memories to FFT.

Mourinho’s first trip to Hell

If Galatasaray vs Fenerbahce wasn’t already incendiary enough, the Special One’s first visit to the Ali Sami Yen promised more fireworks than ever. Naturally, FFT hotfooted it to Istanbul to witness a typically toxic Intercontinental Derby…

Between The Lines: Javier Zanetti

In 2010, halfway through a three-decade association with Inter, Javier Zanetti helped Jose Mourinho to secure Champions League glory for the Milan giants. In his own words, the Nerazzurri vice-president recalls ending 45 years of hurt, featuring a few errant sprinklers…

The Top 50 Football League Players

It’s a tradition that’s now been going for 20 years – as voted for by you, the fans, FFT reveals our annual rundown of the finest footballers operating outside the top flight this term.

Xherdan Shaqiri answers YOUR questions

The ex-Liverpool, Lyon and Switzerland schemer discusses everything from his thunder thighs to major tournament wonder goals, working under Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp, stunning Barcelona at Anfield and consistently ‘doing it on a cold, rainy night in Stoke’.

Tactically speaking

For one last time, Adam Clery takes to the Subbuteo stage to explain how the ‘Moyesiah’ fixed Everton’s woes, why January acquisition Omar Marmoush can revive Manchester City and what happened to Kevin Keegan’s Entertainers that cost them the league title in 1996.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Falkirk’s homegrown hero Scott Arfield is back where it all began in the Forth Valley, and the midfielder is aiming to lead the Bairns to the Scottish Premiership after 15 years away.

Welcome to the clubs: League Two Walsall have been flying with new financial overlords, as one of several sides operating under multi-club ownership. Next stop, world domination?

In Best & Worst, lifelong Charlton supporter Paddy Pamment remembers random horse chants, play-off final limbs and bosses hiding in laundry bins.

Game’s off lads: From badgers and bees to a murder in Grantham, there’s no limit to the ridiculous reasons behind non-league postponements.

The Mixer

Our selection of swish football stuff includes Messi-endorsed earbuds, Cristiano Ronaldo’s debut boots, an awesome Umbro-inspired keyboard and a re-issue of arguably Genoa’s greatest kit.

Want to get something in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell

Upfront

Ex-Arsenal, Chelsea and West Ham defender Gilly Flaherty names the games that changed her life, while columnist Jules Breach pays tribute to Goodison Park ahead of its farewell fixture.

Put your football knowledge to the test with our quiz about Italian grounds, golden boys and Alfredo Di Stefano, then peruse My Football where X Factor graduate and Middlesbrough fan James Arthur talks Gazza Burgers, Ally McCoist nutmegs and Nicole Scherzinger’s trophy query.

Plus, two of our team debate whether new rules should be introduced in an attempt to prevent gamesmanship.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Jan Aage Fjortoft reflects on his long wait for a Premier League goal and iconic aeroplane celebration, Clinton Morrison looks back on mixing it with Brazil’s best and Jason McAteer discusses his fallout with Roy Keane and why he never liked Liverpool’s ‘Spice Boys’ tag.

Perfect XI

Pint-sized Italy frontman Giuseppe Rossi picks a trio of European Championship winners and four world champions in a side littered with Azzurri and Manchester United legends.

Subscribe to FourFourTwo today! Guarantee the finest football stories and interviews dropping on your doorstep every month.

Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘April Issue 376’.

Subscribe to FourFourTwo today and save! You’ll get 13 issues per year…

First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

Five months on from the announcement of his appointment, Thomas Tuchel will finally walk out at Wembley for his first match as England manager this month. Only 15 men have previously held the prestigious position on a permanent basis, and for Tuchel, his raison d’être is clear: he’s there to win the World Cup.

Tuchel has lifted silverware in each of his last four jobs, so the FA will be hoping he can land the biggest trophy of all in New Jersey next July. But before dreams of glory in America can start, England have to qualify first – his journey as boss begins against Albania and Latvia.

We assess the job that the German has in front of him and speak to those in the know about what to expect from his tenure.

If England are to taste success Stateside, it will be the first time they’ve reached a tournament there – in this issue, we also wind the clock back to Graham Taylor’s time in the impossible job, when things very much didn’t go to plan during qualifying for USA 94.

Finally, I would like to pay my respects to a giant of football journalism, Patrick Barclay, who passed away recently aged 77. Patrick was a hugely respected writer at the Guardian, Observer, Independent, Times, Sunday Telegraph and London Evening Standard, and contributed to FourFourTwo as well. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him and read his words.

James

This Is Eng-Ger-land

Football never quite came home under Gareth Southgate, so now it’s down to Thomas Tuchel to end the Three Lions’ trophy drought. As we all know, never write off a German...

Henry Winter talks Tuchel

The acclaimed football writer has covered England around the globe for decades, and hopes the new manager’s fire-and-ice brand can build on Southgate’s Three Lions legacy.

An Impossible Job (Revisited)

As England kick off another quest to reach a World Cup in North America, FFT relives Graham Taylor’s ill-fated qualifying campaign for USA 94 – and the fly-on-the-wall documentary that became infamous…

Tahiti at the World Cup?!

Next summer’s finals will feature 48 nations for the first time ever, so as the battle for places intensifies, some unlikely nations – and Steve McClaren – are in the mix to make it in.

Andres Iniesta exclusive

The midfield maestro cried himself to sleep on his first day at Barcelona. Fourteen years on, he beat depression’s grip on the biggest stage of all. In his own words, he tells FFT how.

Evangelos Marinakis: Forest hero

Controversy has often followed the larger-than-life Greek, but he’s transformed Nottingham Forest and led Olympiacos to his country’s first European trophy – thanks to some crucial interventions.

Sampdoria’s shocking decline

One of Europe’s finest teams in the early 1990s, Sampdoria are now battling relegation to the third-tier Serie C – FFT headed to their clash against Cosenza to hear about a fall featuring film directors, Andrea Pirlo and a pig’s head in the post...

Alfie Conn: Forgotten maverick

Spurs’ answer to George Best, Conn was a north London cult hero in the 1970s – before controversially becoming the first post-war player to represent both Rangers and Celtic.

Karl-Heinz Riedle answers YOUR questions

The World Cup winner sits down to discuss Italia 90 spot-kicks, Champions League final doubles, his Liverpool initiation and, inevitably, silly Paul Gascoigne stories at Lazio…

Tactically speaking

Adam Clery offers his customary analytical expertise to explain why Nottingham Forest’s year shouldn’t make sense… but does, how Arsenal have got so damn good at set-pieces, and what Antonee Robinson has done to become Fulham’s most potent attacker this term.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Burton Albion’s firefighting supremo Gary Bowyer chats survival ambitions, working for Venky’s at Blackburn and lessons from the Class of ’92 at Salford.

Blyth and kicking: A community effort may have rescued 125-year-old Spartans from oblivion.

In Best & Worst, Matt Greer from Partick Thistle podcast Draw, Lose or Draw recalls top Swedes, Pele imposters and a player-subduing SAS mission.

Puffer up, football fans: Designer Julie Herman turned her husband’s Port Vale shirts into jackets, which are now taking the world by storm…

Up the Latics! Twenty years ago, Nathan Ellington fired unfancied Wigan Athletic to the top flight – he recounts the ride from third tier to Premier League.

The Mixer

Our pick of the game’s nifty clobber features yet another PSG-Jordan link-up, the Club World Cup matchball, a cult Wimbledon kit and some sleek yet inexpensive Under Armour boots.

Seen something you want to get in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell

Upfront

Ex-Arsenal and France midfielder Emmanuel Petit names the games that changed his life, while columnist Jules Breach says cheeky goal celebrations should be hailed, not hated.

Put your football knowledge to the test with our quiz about England legends, Basque bosses and big birds, then peruse My Football where talkSPORT presenter and Peterborough fan Adrian Durham sticks up for Michael Carrick and reveals the key to bladder control on radio.

Plus, two of our team debate who the greatest England manager is after Sir Alf Ramsey.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Roberto Di Matteo reflects on Serie A’s golden era and leading Chelsea to Champions League glory, Rafael da Silva remembers a frosty introduction with Louis van Gaal and Katie Chapman reminisces about Lionesses life and lifting the FA Cup a record 10 times.

Perfect XI

Definitely-now-finished Finn, Antti Niemi (he’s 52!), puts together a dream team of classic Barclaysmen, with a couple of Champions League winners chucked in for good measure.

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Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘March Issue 375’.

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First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

Arne Slot clearly didn’t read the script before he took over at Anfield. When replacing a big character and successful manager like Jurgen Klopp, the normal thing to do would be to have a period of transition and find your feet. Instead, he’s hit the ground running and got Liverpool competing for trophies as we move towards the closing months of the campaign.

If Liverpool do go on and win the Premier League, they’ll draw level with arch-rivals Manchester United on 20 top-flight titles. This season, they’re showing the traits that Sir Alex Ferguson’s side used to display, grinding out victories when they appeared unlikely. Just last month, Liverpool were frustrated against a well-organised Brentford team and seemed set to settle for a point. Then, two goals in stoppage time ensured the visitors left London with all three – the sort of delivery that would have had Fergie pumping his fists with joy.

In this issue, we peer inside Slot’s machine and find out why everything seems to be running so smoothly. Elsewhere, Cristiano Ronaldo turns 40 this month – with no sign of him retiring any time soon, we assess what more the Portuguese great can still achieve, while Arsenal Invincible Ray Parlour answers your questions. Enjoy.

James

Liverpool 2.0

Via the shock exit of Jurgen Klopp, key figures tell the inside story of how a group of rising stars and future legends were brought to Liverpool – and how their new Dutch boss led them to the top of the Premier League.

Succession

Bob Paisley delivered glory when he followed Bill Shankly as Liverpool manager. At other clubs, though, following an iconic gaffer has had mixed results…

A day with Diego Maradona Jr

Growing up as the initially unrecognised offspring of El Diez wasn’t easy, but after winning his dad’s heart and enjoying success in beach soccer, the Neapolitan explains to FourFourTwo how he’s now found peace.

Cristiano Ronaldo at 40

Now in his fifth decade, CR7 has no intention of retiring – not with a World Cup in his sights and while still scoring for club and country. But should that decision be taken out of his hands, and could less be more?

Faded wonderkids

FFT remembers the potential world-beaters who slipped by the wayside, via seal dribbles, lame ducks and the goose outshone by Neymar.

FC United, two decades on

Horrified at the Glazer family’s impending takeover 20 years ago, a group of Manchester United supporters went to church. FC United was their divine inspiration, a phoenix club born at the heart of the community.

Finest football songs ever

From El Tel to John Barnes, footballers once delivered a string of memorable tunes and even the odd No.1 – FFT salutes a lost tradition.

John Toshack: Globetrotter

The Cardiff lad’s remarkable career took him from Wales, Liverpool and Real Madrid to Azerbaijan, Morocco and Iran. After a brush with death in 2022, he tells his story to FFT.

Ray Parlour answers YOUR questions

‘The Romford Pele’ sits down to discuss Gunners glory, taunting Tim Lovejoy, England regrets and whether he’d rather run an ice cream, beauty, tattoo or massage parlour.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Hartlepool’s septuagenarian gaffer Lennie Lawrence opens up on his dugout return, almost two decades after his previous managerial post…

Stockport’s driving force: Qualified lorry driver Ben Hinchliffe has been key in County’s road to recent success.

In Best & Worst, Simon Craft and Ben Aspinall of York podcast Same Old City recall beating Fergie and being saved by the Pope.

No wildcards here! Erling Haaland can’t help you now – Fantasy Non-League might be the greatest football game you’ve never heard of.

Scotland’s other derby: It may lack the Old Firm’s toxicity, but Edinburgh’s head-to-head is no less hostile. FFT went to witness Hearts vs Hibernian first-hand.

The Mixer

We highlight some of the game’s sought-after garb, featuring Portugal’s new strip, Adidas’ latest, luscious Predator boot, the Euro 2025 matchball and a unique Newport County kit.

Seen something you want to get in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell

Upfront

Ex-Aston Villa goalkeeper Mark Bosnich names the games that changed his life, while columnist Jules Breach declares there’s plenty for Chelsea fans to cheer about this season.

Put your football knowledge to the test with our quiz on Germans, jam tarts and the late, great Denis Law, then peruse My Football where West Ham fan Chesney Hawkes recounts scoring past Wojciech Szczesny, playing to Hammers supporters in Prague and much more.

Elsewhere, two of our team debate if the new Champions League format is actually any good, and we discover what the Baller League is and why it’s tread on Gerard Pique’s toes.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Newcastle favourite Papiss Cisse attempts to explain his wonder-goal against Chelsea, Frank Clark talks European Cup joy at Nottingham Forest, and former Brazil and Leeds defender Roque Junior admits he never feared losing to England at the 2002 World Cup.

Perfect XI

Ex-Lionesses defender Anita Asante selects a cosmopolitan side brimming with talent and guided by an all-time great.

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Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘February Issue 374’.

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First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

First of all, may I wish you a very Happy New Year, I hope you had a wonderful festive period and got stuck into plenty of football. There are many things to look forward to in 2025 – the Lionesses’ defence of their Euros crown in Switzerland, the Club World Cup in America this summer and an exciting Premier League title race.

Also, it’s the latest new dawn at Manchester United, the sixth since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013. Is Ruben Amorim the answer and can he turn around the Red Devils’ fortunes, after David Moyes, Louis van Gaal, Jose Mourinho, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Erik ten Hag tried and failed? In this issue we chart the rise of the Portuguese gaffer, from his first job at Casa Pia in 2018 to taking charge of one of the world’s biggest clubs in the space of just six years.

Elsewhere in the magazine, we sit down for an in-depth chat with Polish goalscoring superstar Robert Lewandowski, as well as in-form Premier League marksman Chris Wood. With Donald Trump returning to the White House this month, we also look at the US president’s past links to the beautiful game, and what those links will look like in the future with the World Cup taking place Stateside next year. Enjoy.

James

Ruben Amorim: a Devil of a job

Several managers have failed to restore Manchester United to their perch since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement. Ruben Amorim overcame potential bans and a Christmas row with Jesus to revive a listing Lisbon giant, but can lightning strike twice at Old Trafford?

Chris Wood exclusive

The target man began 2024/25 in the goalscoring form of his life, hitting double figures before Christmas as Nottingham Forest gatecrashed the Premier League’s top four. He tells FFT how New Zealand toughened him up, and why he had to leave Newcastle.

Brazil’s Buenos Aires takeover

Black-and-white-striped compatriots Botafogo and Atletico Mineiro descended on Argentina’s capital for the Copa Libertadores final – and FFT joined the 70,000 travelling fans to witness the madness.

Greatest mascots ever!

FFT rates the finest Wombles, jalapeno peppers and chainsaw-wielding maniacs that football has to offer, and discovers Sean Bean’s bizarre distrust of playful pirates…

Souness at Galatasaray

Graeme Souness should have had his feet up in the mid-90s after undergoing heart surgery, but then Galatasaray made him an offer he simply couldn’t refuse. In his own words, he recalls controversy, fallouts, threats... but certainly no regrets.

Donald Trump vs football

Re-entering the White House this month, Donald Trump will be central to next year’s World Cup. His football/soccer links go back decades, via Saint & Greavsie, a possible Rangers takeover... and reports of a six-match stint as Wolves’ youth-team goalkeeper.

Afghanistan’s escape to victory

More than three years have passed since the US withdrawal from Afghanistan sparked a resurgence of the Taliban. It forced the country’s women’s team to flee, but they’ve inspired many since settling at Australian club Melbourne Victory. This is their remarkable story…

Robert Lewandowski answers YOUR questions

The Barcelona and Poland talisman sits down to chat breaking records, Ballon d’Or woe, Champions League glory, snubbing Manchester United and Blackburn ash-cloud drama.

Tactically speaking

Adam Clery returns with more Subbuteo-inspired wisdom on why Mohamed Salah keeps getting better with age, how Erling Haaland plundered 100 goals in just 105 appearances and what Leicester did to achieve the impossible by winning the Premier League in 2016.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Port Vale gaffer Darren Moore discusses the Staffordshire side’s League Two promotion credentials, crazy comebacks and toppling Manchester United.

A cup of controversy: The curious new National League Cup has brought low attendances and boycotts aplenty.

In Best & Worst, Reading fan Simeon Pickup from The Tilehurst End podcast remembers Madejski magic, hostile rappers and the EFL George Clooney.

Compulsory viewing: Featuring passionate discussions and zany skits, A View from the Terrace is the best football show you’ve never seen.

Rise of the (other) Lionesses: Women’s Championship side London City Lionesses are aiming high under leading Lyon Féminin owner, Michele Kang.

The Mixer

Our selection of football’s desirable merch champions Vinicius Junior’s retro cleats, Eberechi Eze’s energy drinks and some collector’s item Fiorentina kits embellished with Super Mario.

Seen something you want to get in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell

Upfront

Iconic Liverpool goalkeeper Bruce Grobbelaar names the games that changed his life, while columnist Jules Breach insists the FA Cup remains magic for clubs at every level.

Put your football knowledge to the test with our quiz about Calcipoli, Colombians and big grass snakes, then peruse My Football where original Rolling Stones bassist Bill Wyman recalls faking toothache in order to watch his beloved Crystal Palace in an FA Cup final.

Plus, two of our team debate if it’s alright to support multiple teams – what do you reckon?

In the Players Lounge this month…

Legendary Charlton manager Alan Curbishley reflects on the season the Addicks narrowly missed out on European qualification, Kevin Mirallas sets the record straight about the time he infamously missed a penalty for Everton, and ex-Newcastle defender Steve Howey gets all hot under the collar thinking about the alluring David Ginola’s arrival at St James’ Park.

Perfect XI

Former Argentina destroyer Roberto Sensini picks a side straight out of the Serie A hall of fame, with a heavy Albiceleste influence.

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Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘January Issue 373’.

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First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

When Manchester City got in touch and asked whether we fancied interviewing newly-crowned Ballon d’Or winner Rodri in Madrid, we dropped everything, jumped on a plane and flew to the Spanish capital. There were a few obstacles in our way, but overcoming them was worth it when the Premier League and Euro 2024 winner arrived at the serene setting of the Rosewood Villa Magna Hotel, sitting down with us for a chat about his amazing year, trophies and career to date.

It was abundantly clear that the midfielder was very proud of his award – and rightly so – as he made sure he used a special cloth to wipe away any fingerprints on the glistening gold orb. Beyond that though, he was just a normal guy. Polite, friendly, engaging and thoughtful throughout our time with him. A normal guy who just so happens to be a gifted footballer.

Manchester City fans and team-mates alike will be looking forward to Rodri’s comeback, once he’s fully recovered from his ACL injury, and returning to the form that saw him voted the finest player in the world. Once you’ve read our brilliant interview in this issue, I’d urge you to go and watch our tactical chat with Rodri on our YouTube channel. Enjoy the mag.

James

Rodri: “How I won the Ballon d’Or”

The Spaniard may not act like a superstar, but his sheer consistency saw him scoop the sport’s greatest individual prize – he tells us why football was ultimately the winner.

Ollie Watkins' one shot at glory

Aston Villa’s marksman had barely featured at Euro 2024, but just needed a chance. From Weston-super-Mare to the Westfalenstadion, a career defined by seizing such opportunities was about to reach its peak…

Martin Adam: Euros cult hero

Standing 6ft 3in tall with a bushy beard, the target man proved popular across the continent when he emerged from Hungary’s bench in June and is now eyeing a move to England.

Neverkusen to Neverlusen

Before 2024, Bayer Leverkusen were infamous for never having won the Bundesliga – then Xabi Alonso’s men swept to the title unbeaten. Those involved recount the emotional ride…

Emma Hayes: Mission impossible

As if a record seventh WSL title wasn’t enough this year, the managerial maestro followed it with Olympic gold. She admits how her late father’s words set her on a path to the US, which led to a family meeting with a Hollywood great.

The 30 best players in the world

FFT ranks the standout male stars of 2024, from the defensive rock named after Zorro to the goal machine who matched a long-standing achievement by Paul Jewell.

Sven, Sven, Sven-Goran Eriksson

Despite ascending to some of world football’s most pressurised jobs, the Swede always used his Zen manner to his advantage. Months after his passing, we salute a legendary coaching career.

Saudi Arabia: A special report

FIFA will confirm the country as 2034 World Cup hosts this month, so FFT headed there to learn what it’s like, meet Ivan Toney and watch two of the league’s biggest games, featuring a certain Cristiano Ronaldo…

Martin Keown answers YOUR questions

The former Arsenal and England centre-back on avoiding Highbury’s infamous drinking culture, turning down Manchester United, that incident with Ruud van Nistelrooy and more.

Tactically speaking

Analytical authority Adam Clery stops by to explain why Champions League-winning boss Carlo Ancelotti remains ‘The Don’ after 30 years in the game, and exactly why Manchester United fans should be excited by the arrival of attack-minded Ruben Amorim as manager.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Oxford United’s globetrotting gaffer Des Buckingham reveals why coming home to lead his boyhood club to the second tier matters…

Caley’s fight to survive: Relegated and docked points, Inverness Caledonian Thistle are hopeful of better days to come.

In Best & Worst, The Wanderer fanzine editor Jonny King casts his mind back to Ceefax strikers, Wembley glory and Tony Adams madness at Wycombe…

Centre mid to centre stage: Jim Whitley spent 13 years as a pro for clubs including Wrexham and Manchester City – now he’s treading the boards.

The savage world of management: From pantomime villain to, er, tactical doyen: Robbie Savage is proving a dab hand in the dugout with Macclesfield.

The Mixer

Our pick of the game’s cool clobber showcases David Beckham’s new Predator boot, football sticker wrapping paper, classic Christmas jumpers and Inter’s retro collection.

Seen something you want to get in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell

Upfront

Ex-Manchester United, Leeds and England midfielder Lee Sharpe names the games that changed his life, while columnist Jules Breach lists her highlights from the last 12 months.

Try to master our quiz about boiler mascots, Gazza and goals for Africa, then check out My Football where Sky and BBC presenter – and Liverpool fan – Kelly Cates discusses life as Kenny Dalglish’s daughter, Ronnie Whelan’s Coke bubble tips and irking Cristiano Ronaldo.

Back to the drawing board: Manchester United and England both changed bosses in 2024 – illustration royalty David Squires reacted with typical wit.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Milan legend Alessandro Costacurta reflects on the Miracle of Istanbul, Jason Euell remembers his intimidating upbringing in Wimbledon’s Crazy Gang and Steve Archibald recalls how he bagged Diego Maradona’s No.10 shirt after swapping Spurs for Barcelona.

Perfect XI

The former Slovakia stopper selects a side littered with Liverpool favourites, anchored by an iconic Mohawk-wearer.

Subscribe to FourFourTwo today! Guarantee the finest football stories and interviews dropping on your doorstep every month.

Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘November Issue 371’.

Subscribe to FourFourTwo today and save! You’ll get 13 issues per year…

First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

Back in 1994, teams from the North West dominated English football, the Conservative Party suffered awful results in local and European elections, Oasis went to number one with their debut album Definitely Maybe and FourFourTwo hit the shelves for the first time, as well as lads’ magazine Loaded.

A lot has happened in the three decades since, but some things remain the same in 2024: the North West is still the football hotbed of the country, the Tories suffered awful results as they were wiped out in the general election landslide, Oasis reunited after 15 years and shot to the top of the album chart with their re-issue of Definitely Maybe, while Loaded has relaunched as a digital title.

As for FourFourTwo, we’ve been a consistent presence on the newsstand for all of those years – 371 issues in, we’re still going strong, and in this 30th anniversary special we’ve republished some of our favourite interviews with Paul Gascoigne, Diego Maradona, Eric Cantona, Roberto Carlos and more. We also speak to all nine previous editors, telling the story of how the magazine was formed and how it progressed to where we are now. Thank you for all of your support over the years, and here’s to the next 30.

James

Celebrate our 30th with us!

To celebrate our 30th anniversary we are gathering for a special intimate event in at Classic Football Shirts in London.

FourFourTwo columnist, and TNT Sports and Channel 4 host, Jules Breach will be our host, and joining her will be two 90s football icons – former England and Arsenal stars Paul Merson and Ray Parlour. Both will take part in a Q&A and be available to meet, with music and drinks to enjoy across the evening inside the fantastic surroundings of Classic Football Shirts’ London store.

You can be there too! We have released a very limited number of tickets to the public. Priced £30 each, every ticket includes a complimentary drink on arrival and a FourFourTwo-themed goodie bag.

Book Now!

Happy anniversary, FFT

Three decades ago when FFT launched, no one imagined it would lead to an all-nighter with Delia Smith, being abducted by an Israeli taxi driver and sending Bobby Robson bottles of HP Sauce through the post. This is the full story of the ‘quite remarkable’ football magazine...

Over The Top, with Brian Clough

The Derby and Nottingham Forest legend was a columnist from 2001 until his death in 2004, aged 69 – not all of his forecasts came true, though he was never short of an opinion…

El Tel: English managerial great

Terry Venables was the cover star for FFT’s launch issue in 1994 – a year after his passing, former players pay tribute to one of the finest managers Britain has ever produced.

Revealed! Today’s stars in 2060

OK, so we didn’t nail how David Beckham would age back in 1998, but that hasn’t stopped us having another crack with the current crop of superstars. Lamine Yamal, look away now!

The rise of women’s football

Respect, that’s what women’s football demands more than anything. Its status has grown exponentially during FFT’s lifetime, but finally the long battle for recognition is bearing fruit.

Finding Maradona in Mexico

Just over a year before his death aged 60, Diego was in charge of Mexican second-tier side Dorados de Sinaloa – FFT headed deep into drug cartel country to track down the deity.

Harry Redknapp’s seagull hell

We’ve chatted to pretty much everyone in football over the past 30 years and gathered some eye-catching quotes – including one about the time Peter Crouch tried to run over Dirk Kuyt.

Our greatest covers, ranked

FFT’s long-suffering art director, Anth Moore, picks out 30 belters, via fake referees, ponytails and a man holding an axe.

Paul Gascoigne answers YOUR questions

Revisiting a classic from 2005, the former Tottenham, Rangers and England ace addresses your posers about snubbing Fergie, the dentist’s chair, revolting mince pies and plenty more.

Tactically speaking

Analytical authority Adam Clery explains how the 4-4-2 became British football’s most iconic formation, why 1999 was the finest moment for 4-4-2… and Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United, and the key part 4-4-2 played in Lionel Messi lifting the World Cup.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Rangers’ in-form goalkeeper Jack Butland reveals he has his sights set on an England recall after moving north of the border.

Gulls Galore: FFT studied Torquay’s empty trophy cabinet in our first edition 30 years ago – barely anything has been added since, but they have hope at last.

In Best & Worst, Inverness Caledonian Thistle fan and Wyness Shuffle podcaster Sandy Sutherland relives the year from hell – but also Terry Butcher’s magic.

Getting Shirty: Back in 2008, FFT made a long overdue move into the world of fashion... as the main shirt sponsor of third-tier Swindon…

Awards season: FFT’s EFL Top 50 began in 2005 – future stars have triumphed, while Gareth Bale once missed out on the top prize behind Jason Koumas.

The Mixer

Our pick of football’s natty gear includes Klopp’s parka, Kammy’s un-beer-lievable lager, Ipswich-themed candles and AC Milan’s lush collaboration with the New York Yankees.

Seen something you want to get in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Ketch

Upfront

Playing off the last defender, it’s the big-man little-man partnership of football and funnies…

Real Madrid royalty Roberto Carlos names the games that changed his life, and FFT columnist Jules Breach reflects on how much football has changed over the last 30 years.

There’s a bumper quiz containing a question from each of the years since FFT launched, plus Hard-Fi frontman Richard Archer recounts meeting Ivan Toney at Legoland in My Football.

Elsewhere, we debate whether football is better now than it was in 1994, discover who won the Subbuteo World Cup and hear about Brazilian blimp mayhem in the Copa Libertadores.

In the Players Lounge this month…

We catch up with the three ‘Boy’s A Bit Special’ stars from FFT Issue 1, as Peter Ndluvu remembers rejecting Arsenal, Nicky Summerbee opens up on playing in his dad’s shadow at Manchester City and Robbie Elliott reveals what it’s like to cross the Tyne-Wear divide.

Perfect XI

In issue 140, Eric Cantona selected an all-star side of players who inspired him.

Subscribe to FourFourTwo today! Guarantee the finest football stories and interviews dropping on your doorstep every month.

Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘October Issue 370’.

Subscribe to FourFourTwo today and save! You’ll get 13 issues per year…

First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

When Bukayo Saka took the long, lonely walk to the penalty area at the Dusseldorf Arena to strike England’s third spot-kick against Switzerland at Euro 2024, the nation held its collective breath. Memories of his missed penalty against Italy three years ago were still fresh in everyone’s minds, along with the awful abuse he was subsequently subjected to. Many feared the pressure that he might be feeling.

After two deep breaths and a short run-up, though, Saka calmly slotted the ball into the back of the net, sending Swiss goalkeeper Yann Sommer the wrong way. There was no screaming or outpouring of emotion, as we’d seen from Stuart Pearce when he scored from the spot against Spain at Euro 96, following his miss at the 1990 World Cup. In contrast, Saka was composed. “Of course I know there were a lot of nervous people watching, my family included,” he said afterwards. “But I kept my cool and I scored.”

What happened at Wembley in 2021 would have weighed many players down, but not Saka. Aged just 23, he’s proved to be a key cog in both Arsenal and England’s wheels – the heights that he can go on and achieve are limitless. In this issue, we look at the rise and rise of Arsenal’s Starboy. Enjoy the mag.

James

Love always wins

It was with those words Bukayo Saka signed off his message to fans after Euro 2020 Final penalty heartbreak led to despicable racist abuse. Arsenal’s adored winger has spent three years silencing such attacks – legends, fans and those who’ve worked with him explain how.

The madness of Boehly’s Chelsea

Todd Boehly’s consortium took charge of Chelsea in the summer of 2022 – but what’s followed has been a dizzying revolving door of players and managers, leading to disappointing results and discontent in the stands. If only he’d been allowed to play 4-4-3…

Premier League newbies profiled

England’s leading lights bolstered their squads before the window closed – including a gap-toothed sharp-shooter and a starlet whose move prompted protests at his old club.

Between The Lines

Gianluigi Lentini became the world’s most expensive player after joining Milan for £13 million in 1992 – in his own words, the ex-winger reflects on a reluctant transfer and the car accident that nearly claimed his life.

The best stadiums in the world

FFT ranks the globe’s finest football arenas, factoring in aesthetics, atmosphere and history.

Beware the Killer Kids

Estudiantes beat Manchester United to become world champions after perfecting the dark arts – but a year later, and 55 years ago this month, the Argentine club’s most brutal fixture was the beginning of the end.

Football’s prostate cancer fight

After battling the disease himself, Mick Harford tells FFT how he has joined forces with Viv Anderson, Grant McCann and more for a fundraising drive this October.

David Pleat answers YOUR questions

The former Luton and Tottenham manager tackles your posers about Morecambe and Wise, pitch invasions, Di Canio, Dele Alli, receiving flowers from Sir Elton John and much more.

Tactically speaking

Adam Clery takes to the Subbuteo table again to outline how Kylian Mbappe will fit into Real Madrid’s style of play, why Ilkay Gundogan was the perfect replacement for… Ilkay Gundogan at Manchester City and the late Sven-Goran Eriksson’s impact on England.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Charlton boss Nathan Jones talks promotion aims at The Valley, looks back on spells at Luton and Southampton and reveals how playing in Spain’s second tier shaped his career.

The Lost Celtic: Belfast Celtic were behemoths of the Northern Irish game before the Second World War – until a violent pitch invasion led to their demise.

In Best & Worst, St Johnstone supporter Danny Williams discusses finger-lickin’ defenders and the spirit of Marco van Basten.

From Top to Bottom: Non-league football is littered with former Premier League stars this term – and we’re talking very non-league.

The Brady Bunch: Despite Birmingham dropping into League One, Blues are bouncing again – with an NFL legend in on the action.

The Mixer

Our selection of football’s swishest stuff includes Thomas Muller’s ‘space boots’, strapless goalkeeper gloves, Oasis-themed apparel and a review of our recent peep inside Puma HQ.

Seen something you want to get in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell

Upfront

Playing off the last defender, it’s the big-man little-man partnership of football and funnies…

Ex-Liverpool defender Markus Babbel names the games that changed his life, while FFT columnist Jules Breach gives us the inside track on new Brighton gaffer Fabian Hurzeler.

There’s our latest quiz on Big Sam, Mia Hamm and the Kassam Stadium, while comedian Justin Moorhouse recalls being offered a Jammie Dodger by Eric Cantona in My Football.

Plus, we debate whether the Saturday 3pm TV blackout should be scrapped, learn about sombrero football and discover why Norwegian drug-testers sought samples from the dead.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Duncan Ferguson admits he still feels aggrieved about having to do jail time in Scotland, Sebastien Bassong remembers slapping old pal Hatem Ben Arfa mid-match and Shola Ameobi opens up about constantly playing second fiddle to Alan Shearer at Newcastle.

Perfect XI

Ian Harte, who possessed one of the finest left pegs in Premier League history, puts together a no-nonsense team from his time starring for Leeds and the Republic of Ireland...

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First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

Back in the summer of 2000, Florentino Perez became president of Real Madrid and set about making them the Harlem Globetrotters of the sport by signing the biggest and best names from Planet Football. He built a team that had the best player from France, and arguably best in the world, Zinedine Zidane. Among others, there were some Brazilians, Ronaldo and Roberto Carlos, plus England superstar midfielder David Beckham. While they were pretty on the eye, they won just two La Liga titles and one Champions League crown in Perez’s first tenure.

The Spaniard was re-elected to the Santiago Bernabeu hotseat in 2009 and Real Madrid have enjoyed plenty of success during his second stint. Now, he’s building ‘the new Galacticos’ in a similar way to how he created the first – with the best player from France, arguably the world, Kylian Mbappe, Brazilians Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo and Endrick, plus England superstar midfielder Jude Bellingham.

Los Blancos are already reigning La Liga and European champions – after adding Mbappe and Endrick to their ranks this summer, it’s a daunting prospect for their opponents. In this issue, we look at their new team of heavyweights and ponder how they will compare to the team of the early 2000s. Enjoy the mag.

James

The new Galacticos

Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Jr and Rodrygo helped Real Madrid to become continental champions yet again last season – now they’ve signed Kylian Mbappe and Brazilian teenage sensation Endrick, too. Can the new Galacticos fare better than their Noughties predecessors and dominate Europe for a generation?

Aston Villa’s return to the elite

Aston Villa lifted Ol’ Big Ears in 1982 but didn’t grace Europe’s top club competition for 40 years following their title defence. Now they’re in the Champions League, after a journey featuring Moscow misery and a Spanish saviour.

Champions League changes, explained

Europe’s biggest club competition has become even bigger – FFT outlines what to look out for in the revamped format, including Thursday night matches, chess and French pirates.

Ratcliffe’s Red Devils

Manchester United warmed up for their first full season under Sir Jim Ratcliffe by heading Stateside – FFT joined them, to discover the plans behind their quest to revive a giant.

Worst starts to a season… ever!

The most dismal beginnings to a campaign, via protests, torched cars and Alan Carr’s dad.

Cafu exclusive

Only one man has played in three consecutive World Cup finals – and Cafu won two of them. The iconic Brazilian shares his outstanding career with FFT, including the time he almost joined Chelsea.

How the Saints bounced back

Southampton needed just one season to return to the Premier League. Now they’re back, and – just as they did following their last promotion there, in 2012 – they’ve come with potential future England internationals in tow.

Clive Tyldesley answers YOUR questions

The famous commentator addresses your myriad queries, from dealing with Brian Clough at Nottingham Forest to that night in Barcelona, Wayne Rooney’s breakthrough and more.

Tactically speaking

Analytical ace Adam Clery uses his expert eye to explain how Lamine Yamal is only going to get better, why Fabian Hurzeler’s Brighton could be unlike anything we’ve ever seen before and the key to Rafael Benitez’s Liverpool conquering Europe 20 campaigns ago.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Lincoln gaffer Michael Skubala opens up about cutting his teeth at Old Trafford, England’s futsal side and Impish dreams.

Ever the optimists: Edinburgh City’s supporters have had to deal with financial implosion, relegations and an aborted name change by opportunistic owners, but they’re still smiling.

In Best & Worst, lifelong Robin Aidan Connolly remembers Dean Windass nightmares, northern seagulls and irking Jose Mourinho…

A different choice of clubs: Peter Odemwingie has swapped one ball for another, having just qualified as a PGA Professional golfer. Fore!

Yo-Yeovil are back! Back in the National League, anyway – but after a decade that brought four relegations, Glovers fans are giddy.

The Mixer

Our round-up of football’s nifty gear includes Rihanna’s sneakers, Lionel Messi’s Beats, coffee kits, dinky shinpads and bespoke bucket hats made out of your favourite shirts.

Seen something you want to get in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell

Upfront

Playing off the last defender, it’s the big-man little-man partnership of football and funnies…

German World Cup winner Toni Kroos names the games that changed his life, while FFT columnist Jules Breach lists some of the challenges involved in live post-match interviews.

There’s our latest quiz on bees, bunnies, Grecians and Pilgrims, while legendary Led Zeppelin frontman Robert Page tells FFT about his love affair with Wolves in My Football.

Elsewhere, we debate who are the greatest Champions League team in history, hear about Greenland’s seven-day season and discover why a fishcake protest was staged in Norway.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Jan Molby recalls Anfield’s golden era and Hillsborough heartbreak, Izzy Christiansen sums up Lionesses life under Phil Neville and Lee Clark recounts King Kev’s entertainers.

Perfect XI

The 101-cap Netherlands midfielder Phillip Cocu selects an enviable side made up of former Oranje and Barcelona team-mates, including a pair of formidable Brazilian forwards.

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First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

What’s the Spanish for deja vu? Another Euros, another final, another defeat for England. Exactly 1,099 days after I was at Wembley to see England lose on penalties to Italy in 2021, I was in Berlin and this time it was Spain who came out on top – each experience was equally as painful in their own way.

Not wanting to dwell on the negatives too much, but you do wonder if England’s male team will ever win a major trophy, or if they’re destined to be nearly men for eternity. The Three Lions didn’t play well for large parts of the tournament, but the way things panned out, it did start to look like the stars were aligning. Sadly, it wasn’t to be.

What do you need to get over a disappointment? A new season of football, of course! That’s the main focus of this bumper issue of the magazine (OK, there’s a bit of Euros stuff as well). No matter what has happened before, there’s no feeling like the anticipation surrounding the kick-off of a new campaign. The sun is out (don’t hold us to that), there are new players to get excited about, and there’s the sense of hope and belief that maybe this could be the year for your team, whoever you support.

James

Season Preview

This month's issue is accompanied by our legendary Season Preview supplement – 100 extra pages of ‘expert’ verdicts on every Premier League, EFL, National League, WSL and Scottish Premiership team in 2024/25 – with plenty of assistance from you, the fans...

51 things we’re excited for this season

After a summer of Euros action, the club season returns – is Pep Guardiola odds-on to win yet another league title, can Wayne Rooney thrive as Plymouth boss and will Jose Mourinho moving to Turkey prove to be the maddest, most incendiary idea in the history of football?

The Tractor Boys are motoring

Twenty-two years after their last top-flight game, Ipswich are back after consecutive promotions under rising coach Kieran McKenna. Next stop: Premier League survival?

Harry Redknapp’s guide to transfers

During his 34-year managerial career, the ex-Portsmouth and Spurs boss was known for his market nous. As the summer window nears its end, he shares his experience of deadline day incidents with FFT, including a call from George Weah.

The 30 most surprising title winners

FFT assesses the most shocking champions of the past 50 years – will this campaign deliver even more upsets?

Petr Cech answers YOUR questions

The former Chelsea and Arsenal goalkeeper faces readers’ posers about fracturing his skull against Reading, Champions League glory, becoming an ice hockey goaltender and more.

Tactically speaking

Subbuteo boffin Adam Clery lifts the lid on Liverpool’s decision to replace Jurgen Klopp with Arne Slot, weighs up Southampton’s chances of avoiding an immediate return to the Championship and explains how new head honcho Enzo Maresca will change Chelsea.

On the continent

We package up the talking points in Spain, Germany, Italy and France, like where Kylian Mbappe fits in at Real Madrid, whether Bayer Leverkusen can go back-to-back, how Cesc Fabregas’ Como will fare in Serie A and if Roberto De Zerbi’s Marseille can topple PSG.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Canadian defender Alistair Johnston chats about the mad MLS Draft, his dream move to Celtic and 2026 World Cup fever…

The sky’s the limit: Sky Sports’ unprecedented EFL deal begins this term, with 800-plus additional matches to be aired over the campaign. What could it mean for match-goers?

In Best & Worst, lifelong Oldham supporter Dave Bradley remembers toppling Liverpool, upsetting the New Den – and an ill-advised gilet.

Welcome to League One: Wrexham are embarking on their toughest test yet – executive director Humphrey Ker tells FFT why it’s all about baby steps.

The Ravens are ready: Once “the worst team in Britain”, EFL newbies Bromley want more than mere survival. So says Gareth Southgate’s BFF.

The Mixer

Our summary of football’s must-have merch includes Napoli’s Armani strip, Bukayo Saka’s beautiful boots and a Panini bible celebrating six decades of the world’s greatest stickers.

Seen something you want to put in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell

Upfront

Playing off the last defender, it’s the big-man little-man partnership of football and funnies…

Goalkeeping great Peter Schmeichel names the games that changed his life, while FFT columnist Jules Breach details her Stateside summer covering Euro 2024 for Fox Sports.

Take on our quiz about Sir Bobby, Bosman, Bellamy and Brazilian icons, then discover why Ian Rush was to blame for presenter Colin Murray requiring a trip to A&E in My Football.

Elsewhere, we debate who will be the next Premier League Player of the Year and find out why a Singapore goalkeeper has pleaded with Chinese fans to stop sending him money.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Neil Warnock discusses his playing days and amateur dramatics stories, Paulo Wanchope recalls Derby delights and Carlton Cole recounts a stern meeting with Roman Abramovich.

Perfect XI

Former Liverpool shot-stopper Bruce Grobbelaar picks his favourite team-mates from “two generations of exquisite players”, including two pairs of Reds royalty in defence and attack.

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England took 26 players to Euro 2024, and most of them have seen at least some action. But not everyone has been so fortunate.

Gareth Southgate has yet to use any of the following stars, for various reasons. And with England having two games at most left in Germany, time is running out for them to be used.

Ahead of Wednesday's huge semi-final clash with the Netherlands, we run you through the Three Lions yet to take to the pitch at this summer's big tournament. Will any of them get a proper taste of Euro 2024 between now and Sunday's final...?

VIDEO: Why Cody Gakpo's A Huge Problem For England

England players who haven't played a single minute at Euro 2024: Aaron Ramsdale

There are four main circumstances which would see a team's second-choice goalkeeper get a run-out a major tournament: injury to the number one; a red card; top spot in the group being secured with a game to play, allowing the manager to rotate his starting 11; and the first-choice 'keeper having an absolute mare. None of those have happened to England, so Arsenal's Aaron Ramsdale hasn't made it onto the pitch.

Dean Henderson

As third-choice goalkeeper, you need even more to go wrong (or go in your favour) to even come close to seeing any action at a major tournament. Dean Henderson won't have expected to play in Germany, and he's not going to barring an outrageously chaotic sequence of events.

Lewis Dunk

With Marc Guehi suspended, Lewis Dunk might well have been a contender to start at centre-back in England's quarter-final against Switzerland. As it was, Gareth Southgate opted for Ezri Konsa – and even though he switched to a back three, there was still no room for Dunk, with Kyle Walker occupying the right centre-back position.

Joe Gomez

Given his ability to play at centre-back or right-back, Joe Gomez ought to have had more opportunity to get some Euros minutes than others. It hasn't panned out that way, though, with the Liverpool man still waiting to make his major tournament debut.

Adam Wharton

Among the youngest members of England's Euro 2024 squad at 20, Crystal Palace midfield starlet Adam Wharton capped a breakout season by earning his first senior Three Lions cap in June's friendly against Bosnia and Herzegovina in June. He's yet to feature at the tournament, though, which is no great surprise given the top talent he's competing with: the likes of fellow prodigy Kobbie Mainoo and Declan Rice.

Tom Heaton

Wait a minute, Tom Heaton isn't in the squad – is he? No, he's not, but the veteran Manchester United shot-stopper is at the Euros, having been taking along as an extra goalkeeper for training.

Get a free live stream to watch Euro 2024 from anywhere in the world for this summer's big tournament

More England stories

Fresh from producing the decisive save in England's latest penalty shootout triumph against Switzerland, Jordan Pickford finds himself immortalised in the new goalkeeping shirt of one of his old clubs.

As the Three Lions were booking their place in the semi-finals, BBC anchor Gary Lineker had a slightly awkward moment on air...

And former England defender Gary Neville has called on Gareth Southgate and co. to evoke the spirit of the Three Lions famous thrashing of the Netherlands at Euro 96.

Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘July Issue 367’.

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First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

In 1994, Oasis released their debut album Definitely Maybe, which has gone on to sell more than 8.5 million copies over the ensuing 30 years. The success of that record isn’t solely based on sales, though, it’s also down to the number of bands formed off the back of being impacted by the songs. The Libertines, Arctic Monkeys, Kasabian, Blossoms and even Las Vegas rockers The Killers all cite the Gallagher brothers as an influence – all have flogged millions of LPs themselves.

Football isn’t dissimilar. Before he rocked up at Elland Road with his bucket, Marcelo Bielsa was regarded as one of the most inspirational gaffers in the game. In Europe, it’s hard to look past Johan Cruyff, whose methods live on through the likes of Ronald Koeman, Luis Enrique and, of course, Pep Guardiola.

Now, Guardiola is often celebrated as a role model for some of today’s elite bosses, including Mikel Arteta, Xabi Alonso, Vincent Kompany, Enzo Maresca and Arne Slot. It’s Pep’s imprint on those coaches that we explore in this issue, as the quintet attempt to steal his crown as the best manager in the world.

James

Arne Slot: Anfield’s Pep admirer

Liverpool’s new boss is one of a growing band of Guardiola disciples at Europe’s top clubs, even if the duo have never worked together, nor even faced each other. Tasked with stepping into a legend’s huge shoes at Anfield, the Dutchman wants to make his mark on English football... just like his idol.

The rapid rise of Enzo Maresca

Even before working with the king of tactics at the Etihad, the Italian wrote a thesis on chess and must replicate such strategic nous if he’s to navigate life at Stamford Bridge.

Mikel Arteta: Right on the brink

Apprentice came agonisingly close to trumping former master to the title in 2023-24 – the Arsenal gaffer could be on the verge of glory, before or after Guardiola’s departure.

Vincent Kompany’s cosmic test

Tipped to follow Pep at Manchester City, the Belgian has instead followed him to Munich. After relegation with Burnley, though, Vinnie must win over the German doubters, who remain unconvinced.

Xabi Alonso: Miracle worker

The Spaniard stirred Germany by turning perennial bottlers into unbeaten Bundesliga champions – not since Pep himself has a young coach achieved so much so quickly.

The summer of Total Football

The Pep Guardiola philosophy was born 50 years ago from the Dutch genius of Johan Cruyff, Rinus Michels & Co. The Netherlands stole the show at the 1974 World Cup – FFT asks that team about a legacy not even a skinny-dipping final defeat can deny.

Inside New York’s MLS derby

With two years to go until New York hosts the World Cup final, could ‘soccer’ culture finally be taking root in the Big Apple? To find out, FFT crossed the Atlantic to see Manchester City’s sister side NYCFC face the Red Bulls in the feisty Hudson River Derby.

Football’s weirdest politicians

FFT runs through the game’s ballot paper, from secret Uber drivers and Vladimir Putin to a runaway hippo.

Rene Higuita exclusive

Nothing about Rene Higuita was ever conventional, from his bizarre tricks to his runs upfield and no fewer than 43 career goals. The Colombian was playing out from the back long before it became common for keepers – he tells FFT about his mad career, also featuring guns, gangs and jail…

Olympic football’s odd history

France have an all-star boss targeting gold in Paris – but if the past 128 years are anything to go by, Thierry Henry will have to navigate some remarkable events to succeed.

Daniel Sturridge answers YOUR questions

The former Chelsea, Liverpool and England striker tackles readers’ posers about Liverpool’s ‘SAS’, donkey costumes, playing for Sven, Carlo and Klopp, and being a part of Team GB.

Tactically speaking

FFT’s tactics titan Adam Clery casts his expert eye over Kieran McKenna’s transformative effect on Ipswich, explains how Julen Lopetegui will structure his West Ham side next season and reveals what Oliver Glasner did at Crystal Palace to aid the Eagles’ fortunes.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Still only 38, and after a journey via Iceland and Belgium, Bristol City boss Liam Manning opens up about his top-flight ambitions.

Wakey wakey: Who better to put Wakefield on the football map than an ambitious Brazil-born USA-based businessman?

In Best & Worst, Mark Jardine of St Mirren podcast Misery Hunters recalls cup heroes and a player so bad they named him twice.

We all follow the Greyhounds: Streatham Rovers tweet to tens of thousands of fans while their shirts sell like hot cakes... and they don’t exist.

Stuck in a rut: After racing into the Football League under glamorous new owners, Salford have hit the skids. But the dream isn’t over yet…

The Mixer

The game’s coolest clobber: Messi boots, Cruyff kits and, er, Jeremy Doku’s underwear.

Seen something you want to put in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell

Upfront

Playing off the last defender, it’s the big-man little-man partnership of football and funnies…

Lioness Ella Toone names the games that changed her life, while FFT columnist Jules Breach pays tribute to a trio of Premier League managers who walked away in May.

Have a go at our quiz about surprise packages and scattered ashes, then learn how ex-Maccabees guitarist Felix White met Maik Taylor while whale-watching in My Football.

Elsewhere, we debate who had the better 2023-24 out of Manchester United and Arsenal, and discover why a top-flight club in Finland rewards supporters during a ‘Sausage Minute’.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Edin Dzeko reminisces about Manchester City’s legendary last-gasp title triumph, Demarai Gray discusses life in Saudi Arabia and switching allegiance to Jamaica, and Charlie Adam reveals what Jose Mourinho said to him after his Stamford Bridge wonder-strike for Stoke.

Perfect XI

Ex-Arsenal and Switzerland centre-back Johan Djourou makes no apologies for selecting a side made up entirely of ex-Gunners comrades, and it would take some beating.

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Arsenal will look to put the final touches to what they hope will be a Premier League title-winning squad this summer. 

After running Manchester City close and taking the title race to the final day of the season, the Gunners will be desperate to end their 20-year wait to be crowned champions of England when the new season swings around. 

So far, speculation around what the club will be looking to do in the summer transfer window has centred around the Gunners’ search for a new centre-forward to supplement their front line. 

Another position that the club have identified is left-back, with Mikel Arteta reportedly unconvinced by his existing options.

As the club work on bringing in a new face in the position, it is set to mark the end of Kieran Tierney’s time at the club, with Teamtalk reporting that Arsenal are ready to sell the 27-year-old.

Injuries have plagued Tierney’s five-year spell at the Emirates, with the Scot moving to Real Sociedad this season in order to get back to full fitness and play regular football.

But after making just 24 appearances in another injury-hit campaign, the club now look to have made the decision to call time on his spell at the club and sell him this summer.

The defender has two years left on his deal in north London, but will weigh up his options following Scotland’s Euro 2024 campaign in Germany.

Aston Villa have previously been linked with Tierney, while his former side Celtic would welcome a reunion, but may struggle to meet his price tag.

More Arsenal stories

‘He was livid’ - Ian Wright recalls the moment he knew it was ‘over’ between him and Arsene Wenger at Arsenal

Wantaway Arsenal star wanted in shock Milan move: report

Arsenal confirm talks with three players over new contracts

Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘June Issue 366’.

Subscribe to FourFourTwo today and save! You’ll get 13 issues per year…

First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

With just a matter of days remaining until the 2024 European Championship kicks off, the excitement is really starting to build. The club season is in the rear-view mirror and the focus is now fully on the next few weeks in Germany. There’s plenty to get excited about as we look forward to a summer of stunning goals, scintillating games and being soaked in beer.

If it’s goals you’re interested in, then the tournament’s greatest ever goalscorer, Cristiano Ronaldo, is featured in this issue as he prepares for his record sixth Euros – will it be his last major finals? The second-highest scorer in Euros history, Michel Platini, talks us through Euro 84, when he scored nine goals in five games and helped France triumph for the first time. Then the joint third-highest goalscorer at the Euros, Alan Shearer, discusses all things 1996, when he bagged the Golden Boot but England suffered penalty pain in the semis.

This tournament promises to be one of the most exciting and open ever, so enjoy it, whether you’re going to games in person, watching from home or heading down the pub with pals.

James

Ronaldo: The last hurrah?

Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal career was as good as over when he was dropped at the last World Cup – instead, CR7 goes to Euro 2024 as their main man once more, aged 39. Will this be the end, and can he make one last pitch to be considered the best player of all time?

Bellingham’s summer to shine

Three years ago, Jude Bellingham briefly became the Euros’ youngest-ever player – now, after a superb debut campaign at Real Madrid, he’s ready to make an even bigger impact.

Capitaine. Leader. Legende

Kylian Mbappe wrote his name into history at successive World Cups. Now France’s captain and desperate to break his Euros goal drought, can Real Madrid’s latest Galactico lead Les Bleus to the Berlin showpiece and succeed where Zinedine Zidane failed 18 years ago?

Sylvinho: King of Albania

The ex-Arsenal and Brazil full-back was an unexpected appointment last year, but he guided the Balkan nation to Euro 2024 – now he tells FFT that he wants to spring another surprise.

Georgia’s rise to Euro 2024

A Frenchman, an Englishman and a local genius walk into a Caucasus country to qualify for a first major tournament – is this a joke? Not for Georgia, who are dreaming big in Germany.

Platini relives Euro 84

Forty years ago, Michel Platini’s Euros-record tally of NINE goals propelled France to glory on home soil... and he wasn’t even a forward. No player has ever enjoyed a finer European Championship – now, in his own words, the midfield maestro remembers it all with FFT.

How Shearer starred in 1996

Only Cristiano Ronaldo and Michel Platini have plundered more goals at the European Championship than Alan Shearer’s seven – the forward walloped five of them at Wembley to secure the Golden Boot in 1996, and tells FFT why he found form at the perfect moment.

Ranked: The finest football pundits

The greatest opinion-offerers on UK television, via Del Boy, Space Jam and Donald Trump…

Don’t forget the Copa America!

Family feuds, Bielsa’s return and an Icelandic dentist – it’s all been going on ahead of South America’s biggest tournament hosted by, er, the USA. Oh, and Messi will be turning up, too.

Paul Lambert answers YOUR questions

The former Borussia Dortmund, Celtic and Scotland midfielder talks ‘One Team in Tallinn’, marking Zinedine Zidane out of a Champions League final, taking Norwich from League One to the Premier League in successive seasons, working with Roy Keane and much more.

Tactically speaking

Adam Clery whips out his Subbuteo gear once again to summarise how England could take the handbrake off at the Euros, why Scotland might just be the dark horses of the summer and what Spain’s 2012 champions did to prove you don’t need a goalscorer to score goals.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Last season’s Scottish Premiership top scorer, Hearts’ Lawrence Shankland, opens up about false career starts, transfer talk and the prospect of leading the line at Euro 2024.

Nathan Owolabi’s skills on everyone’s favourite managerial sim, Football Manager, earned him a job at Bromley in February – now they’re an EFL club and he’s living a lifelong dream.

Diehard Peterborough fan Chris Dowsett describes Posh’s Best & Worst days, including ankle-breaking celebrations at Cardiff and excruciating play-off defeats at Hillsborough.

Mayor of the Mascots:

From decking dragons and chasing cheerleaders to throwing up in Silvio Berlusconi’s toilet, H’Angus the Monkey wasn’t exactly your average politician…

Kernow confusion: Cornwall’s national side still await their debut at the CONIFA World Cup – as non-league Truro City can attest, it’s a familiar tale for the county football left behind.

The Mixer

Our round-up of the game’s sought-after stuff features retro knitwear, Sunderland-inspired whiskey, Invincibles beer, iconic Predators and the creme de la creme of football tables.

Seen something you want to put in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell

Upfront

Playing off the last defender, it’s the big-man little-man partnership of football and funnies…

Republic of Ireland royalty Ray Houghton names the games that changed his life, while FFT columnist Jules Breach picks out a handful of players who could become stars at Euro 2024.

Try to ace all 18 questions in another Euros quiz, then read about the time Suede icon and Arsenal fan Bernard Butler dined out with fearsome referee Pierluigi Collina in My Football.

Elsewhere, we debate who should manage England after the Euros, hear how a Norwegian goalkeeper killed a seagull and why a Brazilian team celebrated by pretending to be dead…

In the Players Lounge this month…

Stelios Giannakopoulos hits back at claims that Greece were overly defensive en route to winning Euro 2004, Stefan Kuntz recalls wrecking England’s dreams at Euro 96 and Darijo Srna reveals how partying hard helped Croatia deny the Three Lions a place at Euro 2008.

Perfect XI

Teddy Sheringham selects a Euro 96-themed side of Three Lions legends, but offers his place up front in Terry Venables’s fabled line-up for one of his favourite England attackers.

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Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘Euro 2024 Issue 365’.

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First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

After what’s felt like six long years, we have a tournament taking place over a summer without any restrictions on attendances. Coupled with the fact it’s being held in Germany, one of the very best football countries, Euro 2024 should prove a sensational spectacle.

It looks like an open competition, with England, France and Portugal all having an excellent shot of hoisting the Henri Delaunay Trophy. Never write off the Germans, either, especially on home soil, while Scotland showed in qualification that they’re not to be underestimated and will hope to get out of their group at a major finals for the first time in their history.

In this issue, we focus on both home nations involved at the Euros, cast our eye over the hosts and sit down to chat with Portugal and Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot. Euro 2012 winner Juan Mata also answers your questions about his career, including scoring in the final, and if that isn’t enough, there’s a 52-page guide on all 24 teams, plus tips on who could win the Golden Boot and even a giant wallchart. Enjoy the mag and the tournament.

James

Euro 2024 Guide

To help you get even more in the mood for it, this month's magazine is accompanied by a 52-page preview. It's packed full of profiles on all 24 teams, an overview of the 10 stadia in Germany, the Golden Boot candidates and 24 reasons why Euro 2024 will be awesome.

Giant A1 wallchart

Track your beloved nation’s progress from Munich to Berlin with our humongous wallchart.

England: this time, at last?

A trophy has agonisingly eluded England in recent times, but they head into Euro 2024 this summer among the contenders once again. Can Gareth Southgate finally lead the Three Lions to victory, and what will this tournament mean for the 53-year-old’s future as manager?

Scotland: the quest for history

In 11 previous major tournaments, Scotland have never made it out of the group stage. But after qualifying for Euro 2024 in some style, the Tartan Army have a genuine chance to reach the knockouts in Germany – and that could be just the start for Steve Clarke’s side…

The greatest ever Euros games

FFT counts down the 30 best face-offs, featuring tears, psychics and a very excitable Motty.

Never write off the Germans

The 2006 World Cup hosts had been abject for a decade but produced a summer of love that inspired a golden reboot – can the stumbling home nation repeat the trick 18 years on?

Diogo Dalot exclusive interview

The versatile Manchester United defender has shone for his country under new Portugal boss Roberto Martinez, helping them to qualify for the Euros with a perfect 10 wins. Via the circus, big dogs and ball boy capers, he explains what success in Berlin would mean…

Ukraine’s nomadic journey

Since Russia’s invasion, Slava Ukraini (‘Glory to Ukraine’) has been a battle cry not only for the country’s army but also its national team. Unable to play at home, Serhiy Rebrov’s men reached Euro 2024 roared on by a fanbase whose devotion has never been stronger.

Juan Mata answers YOUR questions

The Euro 2012 winner reflects on European triumphs with Chelsea, ups and downs under Jose Mourinho, FA Cup final ecstasy and belated league titles in both Turkey and Japan.  

Tactically speaking

Adam Clery emerges from his tactics bunker to outline how Kobbie Mainoo could help to fix England’s oldest problem heading into the Euros, why John McGinn is the embodiment of a much bolder, braver Scotland and exactly what Greece did to rock the football world in 2004.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

On loan at Sunderland from Barnsley since January, Manchester-born midfielder Callum Styles reveals how he came to represent Hungary and why he can’t wait for Euro 2024.

Maidstone United goalkeeper Lucas Colovan isn’t fazed by non-league free-kick takers – he used to help former Lyon set-piece icon Juninho Pernambucano fine-tune his technique.

Lifelong Bees fan Charlie Cassen remembers some of Barnet’s Best & Worst moments, including Barry Fry magic, tooth-chipping celebrations and Edgar Davids’ divine dreadlocks.

From Kermorgant’s curse to “Deeeeney!” and Derby’s ‘Spygate’ revenge, the EFL play-offs provide unparalleled drama on and off the field – we pick out a bunch of our favourites.

Club vs country: A gaggle of EFL, non-league and Scottish teams have come up against international opponents over the years, with unimpressive Wonders of the World, kung-fu fighting and mind-blowing Elton John shopping sprees among the myriad hijinks on show.

The Mixer

Our round-up of football’s summer essentials features a retro Italia 90 bucket hat, Kylian Mbappe’s futuristic sunglasses and some sumptuous Genoa, Roma and Malaga jerseys.

Seen something you want to put in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell

Upfront

Playing off the last defender, it’s the big-man little-man partnership of football and funnies…

Bayern Munich goal machine Harry Kane names the games that changed his life, while FFT columnist Jules Breach weighs up England’s chances of success in Germany on July 14.

Master our Euros quiz on subjects ranging from Ronaldo to Roteiro, then read New Order idol Peter Hook regale tales about recording World In Motion with Gazza in My Football.

Elsewhere, we debate who will win the Euros, hear how Fleetwood Town’s sister club have thrived in the UAE and bid farewell to the man who played West Brom mascot Boiler Man.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Darius Vassell reflects on his Euro 2004 penalty miss against Portugal, Eidur Gudjohnsen happily harks back to Iceland’s stunning humiliation of England at Euro 2016 and former Netherlands defender Khalid Boulahrouz recalls a couple of feisty meetings with Portugal.

Perfect XI

Ex-Manchester City, Everton and England midfielder Izzy Christiansen plumps for many of the Euro 2022-winning outfit, plus a sprinkling of Lyon stars including a Ballon d’Or winner.

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First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

Occasionally in football, and in life, it takes time to pass for something to be appreciated and acknowledged. The Arsenal team of 2003/04 instantly won plenty of plaudits for clinching the Premier League title without losing a game, but two decades on we’re able to reflect on that achievement and really celebrate it.

In the 20 years since then, both Manchester clubs have won three Premier League crowns in a row – not only have Manchester City topped the table by the smallest margin (eight goals in 2012), but also by the biggest (19 points in 2018, when they amassed 100 points in total). Not one single team, though, has matched Arsenal’s accomplishment of going undefeated in a whole season.

Regardless of who you support, fans will all have their own memories of that campaign. Personally, mine was being in the away end at Highbury as Arsenal piled on the pressure with attack after attack – they had 27 shots, but goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar and Fulham kept them at bay and earned an unlikely 0-0 draw.

In this issue, Patrick Vieira, Robert Pires, Ray Parlour and more tell the story of their stunning run, plus we discuss some of Jurgen Klopp’s greatest Liverpool games with Ian Rush and Jamie Carragher, unveil the latest Football League Top 50 and put your questions to German World Cup winner Bastian Schweinsteiger. Enjoy.

James

All hail the Invincibles

Arsenal haven’t won the Premier League since they went unbeaten throughout the 2003/04 campaign – FFT speaks to several of that immortal squad as they relive a season that went down in history…

Lakesiders on the rise

Como were in Italy’s fourth tier as recently as 2019, but with assistance from Cesc Fabregas they have surged to the verge of Serie A this term – FFT headed to the picturesque location to witness a key promotion clash.

Football League Top 50 Players

Yes, it’s that time once again: with a little help from our dear readers, FFT reveals the 50 finest players outside the Premier League this season. Who will claim our No.1 spot?

“I want to set records that last a century”

Aged just 24, Ada Hegerberg became the first winner of the Ballon d’Or Feminin and the Women’s Champions League’s leading goalscorer. Twelve months later, her career lay in tatters. The Norwegian pioneer tells FFT how injury focused her mind to extend her legacy…

Jurgen Klopp’s greatest Liverpool games

The German’s nine-year reign has produced memorable matches aplenty – Ian Rush, Jamie Carragher, the Liverpool Echo and This Is Anfield select eight for the history books.

Bastian Schweinsteiger answers YOUR questions

The Germany legend opens up on World Cup glory, Champions League highs and lows, getting the better of Lionel Messi and life at Manchester United under Jose Mourinho.

Tactically speaking

Adam Clery sprinkles his tactical stardust to explain how Arsenal’s Invincibles offered us a glimpse into football’s future, why Wolves’ Gary O’Neil is a worthy contender for manager of the season and what changed to help Leon Bailey flourish under Unai Emery at Aston Villa.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Former Newcastle defender Mike Williamson reflects on the Magpies’ famous 4-4 draw with Arsenal, reminisces about his spell as Gateshead gaffer and lists his ambitions at MK Dons.

Acun Ilicali is known as Turkey’s Simon Cowell, and he has certainly brought the X-Factor to Hull City. He tells FFT why he bought them back in 2022 – and what’s next for the Tigers.

Diehard Spireite Rob Cole sifts through some of Chesterfield’s Best & Worst moments, including Sean Dyche penalties, toppling Manchester City and bad boy Bobby Zamora.

After pop veterans Boyzone linked up with non-league Chorley, FFT mulls football’s finest musical collaborations, from Sir Elton John and Ed Sheeran to Goldie Lookin Chain…

Based in the tiny town of Irthlingborough, Rushden & Diamonds reached England’s third tier – then it all went wrong. FFT revisits their demise and wonders if the same fate may befall Forest Green Rovers as the Nailsworth minnows stare at successive relegations.

The Mixer

Our round-up of football’s must-have merch features Lionel Messi boots, Milan’s wild fourth kits, groovy Champions League jackets and the Euro 2024 sticker book. Got, got, need!

Seen something you want to put in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell

Upfront

Playing off the last defender, it’s the big-man little-man partnership of football and funnies…

Legendary Lionesses midfielder Jill Scott picks the games that changed her life, while FFT columnist Jules Breach champions her alternative Premier League manager of the season.

See if you can ace our quiz on Berkshire outfits, Basque bosses and Ballon d’Or wins, then read boxing hero Ricky Hatton gushing about his beloved Manchester City in My Football.

Elsewhere, we debate whether the FA Cup semi-finals should be held at Wembley, find out why gliders and pig’s heads caused havoc in Argentina, explain what a canoe was doing inside a Swedish away end and reveal the Pacific nation that Dave Kitson is now managing.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Dave Bassett tells us why everyone calls him ‘Harry’ and how he handled the Crazy Gang, Alexandre Pato admits taking aftershave tips from David Beckham in Milan, and Aston Villa royalty Dennis Mortimer asks for help tracking down his 1982 European Cup Final jersey.

Perfect XI

Ex-Republic of Ireland defender Richard Dunne creates a stellar side of fellow countrymen with a smattering of Manchester City stalwarts, even making room for ‘Le Sulk’ up front.

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Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘April Issue 363’.

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First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

When FourFourTwo told Trent Alexander-Arnold that he was only the third full-back ever to become the main cover star for our magazine, after Stuart Pearce and Paolo Maldini, he looked surprised. During the three decades since FFT first launched, attacking players have often grabbed the attention – and the covers.

But times are changing – in this issue, we celebrate the best full-backs that football has produced. We’ve chosen our own number one, and while we were in the company of one of the best in the world right now, we couldn’t pass up the chance to ask his opinion. Put on the spot, Trent opted for Roberto Carlos.

What was abundantly clear from the time that FFT spent with Alexander-Arnold was that he wants to be considered best in class during his career, and is already thinking about his legacy in the game. Just eight years into his career, he’s already won all domestic, European and world honours at club level with Liverpool, as well as a Ballon d’Or nomination and almost two dozen caps for England. Plenty of players would be happy ending their career with a haul like that, but you get the impression that Trent is just getting started.

James

Calm Down! Calm Down! Calm Down!

There’s been plenty of noise around Trent Alexander-Arnold’s performances for club and country over the past 12 months, but the man himself has maintained a cool head. Donning a retro shellsuit for FFT, the Merseyside maestro insists he still has lofty ambitions – none more so than becoming the best player in the world.

We spent an hour with him at a secret location in his home town of West Derby and before we said goodbye asked him to sign a current Liverpool shirt for one lucky FourFourTwo newsletter subscriber to win. Sign up to our weekday newsletter 'Extra-Time' HERE and you'll find the link to enter in the first instalment you receive.

The greatest full-backs… ever!

FFT ranks the finest to step foot on Planet Football, via Jon Flanagan superfans, raw chickens and a magic dwarf.

Catalonia’s noisy neighbours

Part-owned by the City Football Group, minnows Girona emulated Manchester City by surging past Barcelona to gain Catalan supremacy and even topped La Liga this season. FFT speaks to those in the know to find out how.

Newcastle’s local hero

Like Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold, Sean Longstaff has shone for his boyhood club this season. The midfielder tells FFT all about his Newcastle revival under Eddie Howe, a £50 million move to Manchester United that never was, and why he hasn’t been herding sheep…

Euro 2024 play-offs previewed

Twelve countries tussle in the Euro 2024 play-off semis on March 21, before the winners battle five days later for the three remaining finals spots. Some want to make history – for others, it’s a chance to forget war…

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in India

Two-and-a-half years since his Manchester United reign came to an end, the Norwegian sits down with FFT for a rare interview, lifting the lid on the club’s post-Ferguson struggles, Cristiano Ronaldo and the challenges of managing modern superstars.

Giovanni van Bronckhorst answers YOUR questions

The ex-Netherlands left-back reflects on World Cup wonder goals, vexing Gennaro Gattuso at Rangers, knee knack with Arsenal and guiding Barcelona to Champions League triumph.

Tactically speaking

Adam Clery whips out his Subbuteo table to explain how Luton have adapted their game and enhanced their hopes of Premier League survival, assess Xabi Alonso’s suitability for the Liverpool job and look back at Jose Mourinho’s transformative effect on Chelsea.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Wigan gaffer Shaun Maloney opens up on how he could have rivalled the Murray brothers at tennis, seeking Sir Alex’s advice and memories of FA Cup underdog glory with the Latics.

Simon Rix juggles his hectic role as head of Leeds United Supporters’ Trust with co-hosting a podcast and playing bass guitar for rock royalty Kaiser Chiefs – talk about a full-time gig…

Raith Rovers regular Robbie Weir reminisces about recruiting Kilmarnock’s ‘Mini Messi’, pipping Celtic to League Cup final victory and the iconic defender with tattoos on his teeth.

Every year, the FA considers applications from amateur clubs looking to commence their journeys at the bottom of the football pyramid. From Catholic United to Route One Rovers, FFT salutes some of the sensational names bidding to secure semi-professional status.

Manchester United newbie Dave Brailsford isn’t the game’s first interloping innovator from another sport, as Southampton fans will recall from Clive Woodward’s spell at St Mary’s.

The Mixer

Our collection of football’s coolest clobber features Champions League balls, Subbuteo meets Robot Wars, classic Italy jerseys and the light-up training pods that can boost your ability.

Seen something you want to put in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell

Upfront

Playing off the last defender, it’s the big-man little-man partnership of football and funnies…

Ex-Leeds and Republic of Ireland ace Ian Harte picks the games that changed his life, and FFT columnist Jules Breach hails some of the breakthrough starlets in the Premier League.

Try to nail our quiz about Gary Lineker milestones, Raumdeuters and Barça’s ‘MSN’, then read singer-songwriter and activist Billy Bragg bang on about West Ham in My Football.

Elsewhere, we debate whether Financial Fair Play rules are really working, remember when Wolf from Gladiators played for Gillingham, meet the five English managers hoping to guide the likes of Chinese Taipei, Afghanistan and Pakistan to the 2026 World Cup, and discover how Welsh club TNS could create history with success in the Scottish Challenge Cup final.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Gordon Strachan recounts bust-ups with Fergie, scoring at Mexico 86 and teaming up with Vinnie Jones, while Albert Ferrer revisits the beginning of the end for Johan Cruyff’s Dream Team and Micky Hazard harks back to Swindon’s golden era under ‘genius’ Glenn Hoddle.

Perfect XI

Legendary German manager Ottmar Hitzfeld assembles a team of his best Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund charges, including the tireless Scot who kept Zinedine Zidane quiet.

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Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘March Issue 362’.

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First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

In June 1978, George Best ran out at a packed Lockhart Stadium to make his debut for Fort Lauderdale Strikers in the North American Soccer League. Best was past his prime but still able to turn on the magic, scoring twice in a 5-3 win over New York Cosmos.

Forty five years later, Lionel Messi played his first game for Inter Miami at the very same location, in a stadium built on the same site as Fort Lauderdale Strikers’ old home. Just like Best, he didn’t disappoint, bagging a late winner.

Since MLS began in 1996 to replace the defunct NASL, David Beckham, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thierry Henry have sprinkled their stardust, as football tries to find its place in a sports-mad country with varying degrees of success.

The signing of Messi, though, was the transfer coup to end all transfer coups. Whether he can help Inter Miami become champions this year remains to be seen, but his impact off the pitch will determine whether his time Stateside is successful.

Globally he’s bigger than NFL star Patrick Mahomes or NBA ace LeBron James, but can he make MLS a force both in America and internationally? Time will tell, but it should be a fun watch.

James

The Messi Effect

Lionel Messi stamped his mark on football in the US from his very first match – this year, the maestro’s mission is to help Inter Miami become MLS champions.

Legends’ oddest career moves

Long before Messi headed to MLS, these stars also travelled the world – ending up in some surprising places…

‘Spurs were the only club for me’

Guglielmo Vicario isn’t your average Premier League goalkeeper. Having spent six seasons in Italy’s lower leagues and welcomed Ukrainian refugees into his family home, he tells FFT why taking risks means he’s appreciating every moment at Tottenham…

Xabi Alonso: the puppet-master

The Spaniard has emerged as Europe’s next top boss after putting Bayer Leverkusen in contention for a maiden Bundesliga crown. Having learned under Pep, Jose, Carlo and Rafa, is the apprentice from an unlikely coaching hotbed the man to succeed Jurgen Klopp?

Champions League last 16 – what to watch out for

Alonso will have to wait until next season for a crack at Europe’s premier club competition – before then, though, the bunfight to lift Ol’ Big Ears enters its business end once more.

The rise and fall of Portsmouth

Twenty-five years ago, Milan Mandaric landed in England after a spell at Nice, Jim Ratcliffe-style – via a love-hate partnership with Harry Redknapp, he paved the way for Portsmouth’s glory days.

FFT goes to AFCON

The Africa Cup of Nations is known for the unexpected, but what’s it really like to be there? FFT headed to Ivory Coast to meet Supertramp, goats and Didier Drogba…

Deco answers YOUR questions

The former Porto, Barcelona and Chelsea midfielder recalls training sessions with Graeme Souness, European glory under Jose Mourinho, Euro 2004 heartbreak, playing alongside Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Ronaldinho, and life now as Barça’s sporting director. 

Tactically speaking

Analytical expert Adam Clery explains how Mohamed Salah’s new role at Liverpool has benefited his goalscoring, reveals what makes Mohammed Kudus one of the signings of the season and salutes the late Franz Beckanbauer’s groundbreaking impact on the game.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Veteran Hull goal-getter Billy Sharp talks the Tigers’ promotion hopes, leaving boyhood club Sheffield United without a proper goodbye and that headbutt by a Nottingham Forest fan.

In September 2022, Zander Murray became Scotland’s first male professional footballer to come out. After a “mad” 2023, the Gala Fairydean Rovers man is aiming to inspire others.

Diehard Stockport supporter Chloe Beresford reminisces about George Weah gracing Edgeley Park, Boxing Day batterings at Macclesfield, mass brawls and cup giant-killings.

Not all bitter rivalries involve neighbours going head-to-head – from terrible tackles to title race tomfoolery, we look at teams who have found very different reasons to bear a grudge.

Carl Magnay almost skipped Football Icon trials before going on to win the reality TV show – now, the ex-Chelsea and Gateshead defender aims to pass on his star-studded experience.

The Mixer

Our round-up of the game’s snazziest stuff showcases Fulham hoodies, Mbappe boots, non-league ladders, Venezia threads and Manchester City’s Year of the Dragon collection.

Seen something you want to put in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell

Upfront

Playing off the last defender, it’s the big-man little-man partnership of football and funnies…

Celtic, Aston Villa and Bulgaria legend Stiliyan Petrov picks the games that changed his life, achieving the unprecedented feat of selecting four matches that all ended in defeat.

FFT columnist Jules Breach runs the rule over Manchester City and Arsenal’s chances of Champions League success, as Europe’s elite team tournament reaches the last 16 stage.

Try to conquer our quiz about record goalscorers, Olympic stadiums and top-flight Towns.

Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham reflects on all things Everton in My Football, including pitch invasions that influenced Fever Pitch and the striker who jumped over a Mini.

Elsewhere, we debate the acceptability of buying half-and-half scarves, name our alternative Premier League team of the year, learn of strange grasshopper goings-on in Switzerland and find out why Harry Kane’s new home in Germany once hosted a vasectomy by a ferret…

In the Players Lounge this month…

John Moncur remembers tackling a lion in Munich, shipping goals at Swindon and Glenn Hoddle’s genius, while Lianne Sanderson discusses sexism battles as a young player and thriving in the USA, and Antti Niemi talks Gazza at Rangers and FA Cup final frustration.

Perfect XI

Jet-heeled Swede Jesper Blomqvist picks a team packed with Manchester United Treble winners (featuring himself, of course) plus several stars from Italian football’s golden era.

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Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘February Issue 361’.

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First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

Happy New Year and welcome to 2024! It’s a significant year for FourFourTwo – we turn 30 later this year, and we’re working on plans to celebrate our anniversary.

Back in 1994 when FFT first hit the shelves, the football and media landscapes were very different to how they are now. We don’t take it for granted that people still want to read the magazine that we produce, so we try our best to evolve, keeping it interesting and relevant with interviews, features and stories you haven’t read anywhere else.

If anyone in British football knew exactly how to reinvent themselves and stay relevant, it was Sir Alex Ferguson, who won titles with Aberdeen and Manchester United in four different decades. As the first issue of FFT rolled off the printing presses, Manchester United’s dominance of English football was starting to take hold, as they won their first domestic Double. Two years later, they did it again, then in 1999, they bagged an unforgettable Treble.

It’s now 25 years since Ferguson led the club to his most famous triumph, and more than a decade since he exited Old Trafford – we look back on his remarkable legacy on both sides of the border. Enjoy the mag and have a great year.

James

Fergie Time

Sir Alex Ferguson almost emigrated to Canada aged 21 – instead, he became Britain’s greatest football manager. Twenty-five years after his finest hour, Martin Edwards and others tell FFT the inside story of a legendary career.

Germany’s most bitter derby

City rivals St Pauli and Hamburg are going head-to-head for promotion to Germany’s top tier this term – FFT hot-footed it to the Millerntor to watch the two teams face off.

Henrik Larsson exclusive

It’s 20 years since Henrik Larsson brought an end to seven glorious seasons at Celtic, but he remains a legend at Parkhead – and at Barcelona, too. He tells FFT why his time at both clubs still means so much to him.

Palestine: Team in a war zone

This month’s Asian Cup features a side rocked by conflict, facing travel issues just to leave their own territory and desperate to represent their people. Key figures tell FFT why it’s not stopped them dreaming of success.

Lucas Radebe and apartheid

Back in 1991, Lucas Radebe lay wounded in his car, and only his brother’s help saved his career. In his own words, the Leeds icon tells FFT how he escaped death’s door to conquer Yorkshire, captain post-apartheid South Africa and become Nelson Mandela’s hero.

The weirdest transfer moments

FFT remembers some of the strangest incidents, including riots, Lego, Twitter rants and would-be astronauts…

Robbie Savage answers YOUR questions

The former feisty midfielder-turned-Macclesfield supremo opens up about failing to make the grade at Manchester United, League Cup glory at Leicester, ‘disrespecting’ Paolo Maldini, vexing Roy Keane via voicemail, getting headbutted by Dion Dublin and much more.

Tactically speaking

Analytical sage Adam Clery examines how Terry Venables revitalised England at Euro 96, explains what Sean Dyche has done to make Everton structured and reveals the secret to Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Liverpool transformation, and why it could help his country too.

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Portsmouth gaffer John Mousinho talks about record-breaking unbeaten runs, the art of good defending and his top-tier ambitions.

As Bruno Fernandes captains Manchester United and pulls strings for Portugal, big brother Ricardo Fernandes works for the NHS in Crawley and skippers 10th-tier Roffey.

Lifelong Stevenage fanatic Pete Hayman recalls long-overdue promotions, Teddy Sheringham turmoil and Wembley triumph. 

Hashtag United Women didn’t even exist at the start of the decade, but bold investment from the club’s pioneering owners has made them a rising force…

Reading tyro Ben Elliott swapped England’s youth teams for Cameroon’s seniors ahead of this month’s Africa Cup of Nations – we chat to the Royals midfielder and run through some of the other EFL and Scottish Premiership stars hoping to shine in the Ivory Coast.

The Mixer

Our round-up of the game’s grooviest gear showcases jaw-dropping boots to mark 30 years of the Adidas Predator, plus Harry Kane’s crisps, Raheem Sterling’s customised Clarks footwear, the new MLS matchball and other stuff that you don’t need but will possibly want.

Seen something you want to put in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell

Upfront

Playing off the last defender, it’s the big-man little-man partnership of football and funnies…

Heurelho Gomes lists the games that changed his life, claiming that he’s probably the only goalkeeper ever to be substituted due to cramp!

FFT columnist Jules Breach assesses the Premier League season so far, and what she expects to happen in the second half of the campaign.

Our 18-question quiz gives you the chance to kick off 2024 by nailing puzzlers about frequent flowers, Real Madrid royalty and European talismen.

In My Football, Ash frontman Tim Wheeler talks invitations from Martin O’Neill, captaining David Healy’s hockey side and New York’s greatest Arsenal hangout.

Elsewhere, we debate if Pep Guardiola’s football is actually enjoyable to watch, offer up some predictions for the year ahead (including Germany to stink out their own Euros) and summarise weird goings-on in Turkmenistan, Pontypridd and Papua New Guinea.

In the Players Lounge this month…

Demba Ba recounts Vegas dancefloor injuries, happy days at Newcastle and why Jose Mourinho drove him mad, Phil Brown reflects on cutting his coaching teeth under Sam Allardyce and Nigel Martyn attempts to justify dipping his Cornish pasties in cold milk.

Perfect XI

Ex-Liverpool and Bayern Munich defender Markus Babbel builds a dream team comprised of mentality monsters, miniature machines and the man who was “a genius… but a lazy c**t!”

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Order the new issue with free delivery here – just select ‘January Issue 360’.

Subscribe to FourFourTwo today and save! You’ll get 13 issues per year…

First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

Wind the clock back 12 months, when we were still in the midst of the first winter World Cup, and the big question was how it would impact players and clubs once domestic football returned.

In Manchester City’s case, it didn’t seem to cause too many problems – they went on to win the Treble, with Erling Haaland breaking all sorts of records along the way. In this issue, we celebrate the Sky Blues’ memorable year.

England’s Lionesses fell agonisingly short of the ultimate glory in the summer, but we honour their achievement of reaching a first ever World Cup final by speaking to Lucy Bronze, as well as looking back on the rise of Mary Earps.

Never has the National League garnered such attention than during 2023 – Wrexham’s promotion gained coverage far and wide thanks to Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. We hear the inside story from the man who orchestrated that success, gaffer Phil Parkinson.

On a personal level as a Fulham fan, this was the year we lost former owner Mohamed Al Fayed, so in this mag we reflect on the maverick’s reign at the Cottage.

This month also marks 50 years since the first replica shirt was sold – we find out how it all started.

That was 2023, now roll on 2024

James

Feeling Supersonic

European bridesmaids Manchester City at last became the bride in June to secure the Treble, completing both their journey from the third tier and maybe even football itself. We look back at their gargantuan achievement

Where Seagulls Soar

The goals have flowed at both ends since Roberto De Zerbi became Brighton boss, but there’s method in the madness – using strategies first honed at the Italian Bishop’s Stortford, he’s taken the Seagulls to greater heights than ever before

Swear Down

Mary Earps hasn’t enjoyed a smooth journey to the top, but she captured the hearts of a nation during the 2023 Women’s World Cup thanks to all manner of sensational saves and some particularly impressive swearing, too…

Hollywood Ending

With a little help from Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, Phil Parkinson ended Wrexham’s 15-year EFL exile this year. In his own words, he explained to FFT why he’ll never forget 2023...

Scot McGoals

Scotland’s remarkable Euro 2024 qualifying campaign owed plenty to the contribution of Scott McTominay. The Manchester United midfielder tells FFT how he turned into an unlikely goal machine

Comeback Kings

Turkey’s biggest quake since 1939 took the life of former Newcastle star Christian Atsu in February. In his honour, his club, Hatayspor, have fought back in remarkable fashion

Victor(y) Osimhen

Napoli won their first Scudetto for 33 years in 2023, thanks to the goals of their Nigerian star, Victor Osimhen. Little wonder he’s been linked with a host of Premier League clubs…

Great Britains 

From underdog stories to treble triumphs, FFT ranks the 30 most remarkable teams to ever emerge from these shores

Getting Shirty

Fifty years ago, a small Midlands firm went from manufacturing nuns’ knickers to selling the world’s first replica football kits, just in time for Christmas. Almost by accident, Admiral opened the floodgates to a multimillion-pound industry...

Black and White

During 16 years as Fulham owner, Mohamed Al Fayed transformed the club from lower-league also-rans into Europa League finalists. Months after his passing, FFT recalls an eccentric who gave Cottagers some incredible memories – and a bizarre statue of Michael Jackson...

Lucy Bronze answers YOUR questions

“I’m a right-back – when someone called me to say that I had won PFA Player of the Year, I thought, ‘You’ve called the wrong person!’”

No female player in British footballing history can boast an honours list quite like Lucy Bronze’s – we tracked her down and asked her questions submitted by the FourFourTwo massive that covers World Cups, Champions Leagues, Phil Neville flattery and life in Barcelona

Tactically speaking

Never build a team around one star, unless they're Jude Bellingham, Unai Emery has Villa knocking on the Champions League door and James Maddison isn't part of the Tottenham system - he IS the system. Tactical guru Adam Clery breaks down all the above

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Notts County striker Macaulay Langstaff tells FFT about comparisons with Haaland, Peaky Blinders and being told to ‘F**k off” by Rob McElhenney…

Andrew Jenkins joined Carlisle’s board way back in 1959, he's seen it all: from biblical floods to miracle campaigns that leave even Leicester’s in the shade. We speak to the longest-serving director in English football.

Motherwell fan Graham Barnstaple recalls Scottish Cup glory, terrible business transactions and dates with Dortmund.

Loughgall in County Armagh are proving size doesn't matter. They may have a tiny population of less than 300 and be served by one shop, but that hasn’t stopped them becoming the smallest town in Europe to boast a top-flight football club – and they’re not done dreaming big.

Ipswich fans were growing tired of mediocrity in January, and then the club embarked on an imperious run to promotion. Twelve months on, the Premier League is in sight.

The Mixer

Each month we round up the best football kit, fashion, art, design, books and tech. Tickling your credit cards this month are some fine garms modelled by Roy Keane and his dog Jet, a groovy Beatles football shirt, a pair of shin pads that can read your xG and loads of other stuff you probably don't need, but you'll definitely still want

Seen something you want to put in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell on Instagram

Upfront

Playing off the last defender, it’s the big-man little-man partnership of football and funnies...

We've dug around our 2023 photo archives and picked out TEN incredible images for our Pictures of the Year award. There's pyro, pigeons, parties and more.

Thomas Hitzlsperger bucks the trend by picking four games that changed his life and three of them were defeats!

Our 18-question quiz features teasers on Magpies in movies, Premier League Kenyans and viral penalty misses

FFT columnist Jules Breach explains what a week looks like working for TNT Sports. You won't be shocked to hear it's incredibly busy.

Meanwhile in Switzerland a giant Tifo needs spellchecked, Finnish side 'Sexy Pants' are on the slide, in Monaco the Scottish Health Secretary's sons spent £7k watching the Old Firm, in Norway Lyn won 10-1 on the final day of the third-tier season but missed out on automatic promotion by one goal, and in Bulgaria 1994 goalkeeping hero Borislav Mihailov has caused a riot.

Cruiserweight world champion (at the time of writing), Chris Billam-Smith, talked to us about battling Artur Boruc in the ring and swapping his gloves for Aaron Ramsdale’s shirt....

FourFourTwo's Senior Staff Writer Chris Flanagan and Editor James Andrew argue, 'Is Sports Personality of the Year still relevant?' and thrash the topic out in this month's Debate Column.

In his Opinion Column Head of Video, Adam Clery, explains why 2023 belongs to Dan Burn, reminds us that Andy Robertson got elbowed in the jaw by a linesman and champions VAR as the most exciting innovation in the managerial blame game.

In the Players Lounge this month...

One of Germany's heroes from 1990, a true Prem legend whose career straddled the millennium and an Englishman who became a star in Spain. It's Emile Heskey, Vinny Samways and Pierre Littbarski. Emile tells us about being mugged off by Rod Hull, Vinny explains how he became royalty in the Canary Islands and Pierre talks to us about reaching three World Cup finals. Decent

Perfect XI

Legendary Arsenal left-back, Nigel Winterburn, unashamedly selects an all-Gunners line-up, and why wouldn’t you when you got to play alongside this lot over a glittering career?

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First a message from our editor, James Andrew:

If there were ever any doubts about Harry Kane’s move to Bayern Munich, a goal from inside his own half at the end of October surely put any concerns to bed.

That audacious strike against Darmstadt didn’t show any indication whatsoever of a player struggling with his new surroundings, weighed down by a hefty price tag around his neck. Kane is England’s leading goalscorer and was on course to break Alan Shearer’s all-time Premier League record before his switch to the Bundesliga.

And remember those faraway days when it was said that Kane couldn’t score in August? Those days are long gone, illustrated by three goals in his first two league games for Bayern. By October 28, he’d scored 14 times, including two hat-tricks – even if Bundesliga bureaucrats appear to keep moving the goalposts over what qualifies as a hat-trick in Germany. It’s not the same as in England, bafflingly.

All in all, he’s doing pretty well, and seems to be settling in just fine off the field too, getting stuck into the Oktoberfest celebrations. It’s a big 12 months for Kane, with the Euros in his new homeland next summer, so FFT caught up with the England captain for an exclusive interview to discover how he’s finding life away from the Premier League.

Enjoy the mag.

James

Harry Kane exclusive interview

After 19 years at Spurs, He finally flew the nest this summer in search of silverware at Bayern Munich. He exclusively tells FFT why German football has given him goosebumps, and why Champions League glory is in his sights

Dean Saunders answers YOUR questions

“At Galatasaray, they slit a goat’s throat in front of us, then handed everyone a cup of blood. I said to Brad Friedel, ‘What’s going on?’”

The Welsh striker covers the lot, from Turkish goat rituals, THAT Cloughie story and Robert Maxwell.

Brits Abroad

England has often been one of football’s most attractive destinations, particularly in the Premier League era. But while plenty of foreign superstars have made a home on these shores, numerous British sensations have headed in the opposite direction. Here are the finest of them, ranked solely by their contributions overseas...

Exclusive Chris Waddle legend feature

"Michel Platini said that if Glenn Hoddle and I had been French, we would have both earned 100 caps"

From sausage seasoner to European Cup finalist with Marseille, Chris Waddle went from obscure factory worker to football’s elite. He tells FFT how, via backheels, ballads and a ballistic Jack Charlton

Mongolia: out of the World Cup

Not even Mongolia’s great warlord could have stopped the Blue Wolves being one of of the first sides knocked out of the 2026 World Cup. FFT were in Ulaanbaatar to see it – once a coach in the country, Paul Watson discovered why their hopes were dashed, via Bayangol, Blatter and Barnet.

Davide Gualtieri: Scottish hero

"At first, I didn't realise my goal against England only took eight seconds. It made me an idol in San Marino - and Scotland"

Three decades ago, Davide Gualtieri wrote his name into history by delivering the final insult to England’s wretched qualifying campaign for the 1994 World Cup. In his own words, he shares how that goal from kick-off changed his life...

Gretna’s marriage gone wrong

The Scottish border town beloved by elopers witnessed three consecutive promotions to the top flight and UEFA Cup qualification, but by 2008 the Anvils suffered the early death of their benefactor – as the club was liquidated.

Why Son is shining at Spurs

Who knew life after Harry Kane would be so chirpy for Spurs? FFT’s tactical guru reveals how their South Korean star’s role under ‘Big Ange’ worked wonders in the North London derby...

Nuno Gomes' Perfect XI

The former Portugal and Benfica forward selects a side full of Seleção heroes with a pair of Ballon d’Or winners leading the line. Not bad, then...

Around the grounds in the EFL, non-league and Scotland

Veteran Hibs poacher Adam Le Fondre chatted to us about scoring in each of the top four English leagues, Bolton’s great escape and happy days with Reading.

Remember Watford's Darius Henderson? After quitting football in 2017, the striker took up mountaineering – he tells how he plans to conquer Everest.

Lifelong Terrier Marcus Middleton looks back at Huddersfield Town's Wembley delirium, Mooy magic and Felix Magath’s tea boy.

Soccer Slammers is a frankly inspired series of creations on social media, depicting football stars as wrestling action figures. We investigate Big Nige's stuffed ostrich and Brucey's cabbage.

Southend fans feared for the mismanaged club’s existence in October, but a late takeover bid gave them hope. Antipodean businessman Justin Rees' six-man consortium looks to have saved the club from liquidation.

The Mixer

Each month we round up the best football kit, fashion, art, design, books and tech. In the basket this month: Bellingham's boots, a robot footballer, big Ange's watch and a St Pauli toaster.

Seen something you want to put in The Mixer? DM Deputy Editor Matt Ketchell on Instagram

Upfront

Playing off the last defender, it’s the big-man little-man partnership of football and funnies...

We pay tribute to the incredible life of Sir Bobby Charlton by digging through our archives of images of the great man.

Izzy Christiansen talks over the  games that changed her life: beating Barca, Birmingham and a particularly sweet late winner against those pesky Americans.

Our 18-question quiz features puzzlers on butchers, shootout records and Olympic champions.

FFT columnist Jules Breach explains why Chelsea and Poch are a perfect match...