Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero is reportedly open to joining North London rivals Arsenal this summer, according to a report from transfer journalist Ekrem Konur.

Arsenal have entered the market for defensive reinforcements following injury to William Saliba, who suffered a long-term back injury while representing France at the 2026 World Cup.

Saliba's absence leaves Mikel Arteta short of options in central defence as Arsenal look to defend their Premier League title.

Cristian Romero is 'open to' Arsenal move

Romero has seemingly made clear to Tottenham management that he intends to leave the club before the transfer window closes.

A potential move to the Emirates Stadium would allow the 28-year-old Argentine international to remain based in London while competing in the UEFA Champions League with the reigning domestic champions.

However, Tottenham executives would be understandably reluctant to sell one of the core members of their squad to their local rivals, even if an exit has been in the offing for some time.

Spurs' hierarchy would prefer a transfer to an overseas club, with interest previously registered from LaLiga club Atletico Madrid.

Any formal approach from Arsenal would likely face significant opposition from both groups of supporters.

From Spurs' perspective, agreeing a deal with Arsenal would draw criticism from supporters, largely due to the principle of strengthening a direct rival and past cross-North London transfers.

Sections of the Arsenal fanbase remain skeptical about Romero as a player of interest, too. His poor disciplinary record in the Premier League, in addition to his conduct with the Argentine national team during their recent World Cup campaign only served to further alienate many English supporters.

In FourFourTwo's opinion, Romero joining Arsenal would ruffle more than a few feathers, to say the least.

It could even be a transfer that rivals Sol Campbell's switch in 2001 and the associated bad blood that came as a result of that particular move.

Barcelona could be forced back into the transfer market following a training ground setback for young forward Roony Bardghji.

The Swedish international is reported to have sustained a serious knee injury during a training session, leaving the pitch in pain, raising fears of a lengthy, layoff.

In light of the sudden blow, the Catalan giants may now reignite their interest in Manchester United star Marcus Rashford.

Marcus Rashford back to Barcelona? Maybe

Rashford spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan at Spotify Camp Nou, offering attacking depth across Hansi Flick’s forward line.

Although Barcelona held an option to sign the England international permanently at the conclusion of the loan, they ultimately chose not to exercise the buyout clause earlier in the summer transfer window, instead signing Anthony Gordon from Newcastle United.

However, Rashford’s long-term future back at Old Trafford remains uncertain. His relationship with sections of the Manchester United fanbase has become strained in recent seasons, leaving both the player and the club open to a parting of ways before the transfer deadline.

Bringing in Rashford would not be a direct like-for-like replacement for Bardghji. The Swedish youngster typically operates as a winger on the right-hand side, whereas Rashford does his best work cutting inward off the left.

Nevertheless, adding the 28-year-old back into the squad would grant Flick tactical flexibility.

With new signing Gordon likely to start on the left, signing Rashford would allow Los Cules the option to deploy both Englishmen together on opposite sides, giving Spain World Cup star Lamine Yamal a rest after a long summer of international football.

Rashford arriving once more, potentially on loan, would offer much-needed insurance should Yamal suffer an injury.

Given Barcelona's tight financial constraints and the timing of Bardghji's injury, an outright purchase of Rashford appears less likely.

Instead, Barcelona could attempt to arrange another season-long loan deal with Man United rather than buying him outright, which would be a considerable outlay they have previously baulked at.

Chelsea's decision to sign 36-year-old Jordan Henderson earlier this summer had armchair analysts questioning what on earth the Blues were doing. But, the logic was sound.

Prior to Henderson’s arrival at Stamford Bridge, 28-year-old goalkeeper Robert Sanchez held the distinction of being the oldest member of a particularly youthful squad.

Over the past few seasons, many have believed Chelsea to be lacking supervision, dressing-room authority, and leadership, not least incoming boss Xabi Alonso.

Newcastle could be signing their own version of Jordan Henderson

Now, Newcastle United find themselves at a similar crossroads following the departure of key dressing room figures.

New manager Matthias Jaissle's preparations for his maiden Premier League campaign are well underway, but his squad is not yet complete.

According to reports in France, Newcastle are stepping up interest in Marseille midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg - a transfer which if completed, like Henderson to Chelsea, has perhaps caught people by surprise.

The 31-year-old Dane represents a vastly different age profile to Newcastle's other summer business, which has prioritised youth with arrivals like 18-year-old Sean Steur and 20-year-old Aladji Bamba.

But in a squad suddenly lacking experience, the merits of a Hojbjerg-type arrival are obvious.

Newcastle need to add dressing room leadership and fast. Their coach is among the youngest managers in the league, the club have reluctantly sold the club captain and their vice-skipper came to the end of his Premier League shelf-life.

Bruno Guimaraes completed a £75m switch to Arsenal last week, Kieran Trippier departed at the beginning of the summer, and Italian international Sandro Tonali exited for Tottenham. In one fell swoop, Newcastle have lost the heart of their side.

Jaissle’s squad possesses talent, but it is currently lacking natural leaders, and at a time when the club is going through a transition, Newcastle need all the guidance they can get.

This is why Hojbjerg, on paper at least, makes sense as a summer move. Boasting 254 Premier League appearances from spells at Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur, the Denmark skipper is widely-regarded as a consummate professional.

Make no mistake, Hojbjerg will not arrive as a direct replacement for Guimaraes or Tonali in terms of what he is capable of doing on the pitch. Instead, he is a candidate for setting the standard at St. James' Park, much like Granit Xhaka’s impact down the road at Sunderland, or Henderson’s veteran presence at Chelsea.

Given the leadership vacuum left by Guimaraes and Trippier, it wouldn't be the greatest surprise if Hojbjerg arrived and immediately assumed the captain's armband. Although, there's every chance local lad and England international Dan Burn will be handed that particular responsibility.

Chelsea, or more likely Alonso, recognised that Henderson’s experience was required to anchor their young squad. In the same way, Newcastle seemingly recognise that Hojbjerg is a steady hand who can help a new coach navigate a transition season.

Tottenham Hotspur full-back Djed Spence has been offered to both Liverpool and Manchester United, according to transfers journalist Ben Jacobs.

The defender is reportedly seeking guaranteed first-team football following an impressive international campaign with England at the 2026 World Cup, amid uncertainty as to whether he is in Roberto De Zerbi's plans this season.

Spurs are said to be open to sanctioning a departure for the 25-year-old as De Zerbi continues to raise transfer funds for a rebuild in North London.

Djed Spence could be on the move from Spurs this summer

Tottenham's valuation is £35 million (€40m) for the right-back, who penned a new long-term contract only 12 months ago.

Despite his international displays, Spence faces stiff competition at club level, and is seen to be behind World Cup winner Pedro Porro in De Zerbi's defensive pecking order.

Spence's representatives have reportedly reached out to top Premier League sides in order to explore potential landing spots.

Manchester United and Liverpool are the two sides named in the initial report as being linked with Spence, but neither have made a formal approach as of yet.

The Old Trafford club are currently well-stocked in the full-back department with Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui on the right-hand side, although both could feasibly be usurped by Spence.

Meanwhile, Liverpool do have a vacancy that could do with being filled at right-back with Conor Bradley still sidelined through injury. Joe Gomez is another who is currently injured, while back-up solutions Curtis Jones and Dominik Szoboszlai don't look entirely suited to the role.

Italian giants Inter Milan have also registered an interest in Spence as a potential right wing-back option, though talks remain at an early stage due to a gap between the Serie A side's valuation and Tottenham's asking price.

Reports indicate that last season's Premier League runners-up have identified Lille youngster Ayyoub Bouaddi as the Spaniard's long-term successor at the Etihad Stadium.

With Rodri nearing a return to LaLiga with Barcelona, Manchester City’s recruitment team have moved swiftly to ensure their engine room suffers no lasting void.

According to reports from The Athletic and French publication L'Equipe, City have begun discussions to secure Bouaddi's signature.

One in, one out at the Etihad Stadium - but are Bouaddi and Rodri like-for-like?

At just 18 years old, 'The Boy's A Bit Special' alumnus Bouaddi has established himself as one of the more complete deep-lying playmakers in European football.

Having broken into Lille’s senior setup at the age of 16, the Moroccan international has drawn positive reviews for his press-resistance and passing range from the base of midfield.

His standout performances in Ligue 1 and the UEFA Champions League have led Manchester City to position themselves at the front of the queue.

Man City’s recruitment structure are said to view Bouaddi as a talented potential successor to Rodri. Replacing a Ballon d'Or and World Cup winner like Rodri is no easy task, but City’s proactive manoeuvre suggests they're in a position to bring a similar calibre of player to the Etihad Stadium.

Rather than seeking a short-term, potentially costly stopgap, the club are choosing to invest heavily in a long-term solution that can grow with the new iteration of this Man City team in the post-Guardiola era.

While Rodri’s anticipated departure to Catalonia marks the end of a trophy-laden chapter in Manchester, securing Bouaddi ensures the club remain well-prepared for the future. If Rodri's £60 million transfer reaches its expected conclusion, it would greenlight Bouaddi's move, leaving the Etihad faithful to witness the arrival of Europe's next top-level midfield anchor.

Bruno Guimaraes is closing in on a £75 million move to Arsenal, ending a transfer saga that has punctuated the summer window.

However, the Brazilian midfielder’s departure from Tyneside was set in motion long before formal negotiations between the two clubs took place.

FourFourTwo understand Guimaraes informed Newcastle as early as January that he would like to leave the club in the summer.

Bruno Guimaraes to complete Arsenal move

While external speculation suggested Arsenal’s interest only gathered momentum deep into the summer, Guimaraes' exit roadmap began at the start of the year.

Despite making his intentions clear to the Newcastle hierarchy in January, the 28-year-old remained committed on the pitch, captaining the team and performing with trademark intensity throughout the remainder of the 2025/26 campaign.

Newcastle officials were initially hopeful of convincing their captain to sign a new contract. However, with the club unable to offer European football for the upcoming season, Guimaraes viewed an exit as his preference.

It is widely reported the Brazilian deems his Gunners switch as the final opportunity to consistently compete for domestic and European trophies.

When incoming manager Matthias Jaissle met with Guimaraes at Newcastle's pre-season camp in La Manga, he respectfully reiterated his desire. The conversation was reportedly cordial, and Newcastle subsequently accepted Arsenal's £75m package.

Since the turn of the year it had become apparent in Newcastle circles that marquee members of Eddie Howe's squad had one eye on the exit door at St. James' Park.

The team were struggling in the league and looked unlikely to clinch European football, and so conversations between players and their agents began taking place. Guimaraes was one of a number who privately communicated their wish to be granted a move.

For Arsenal, signing Guimaraes provides Mikel Arteta with a battle-tested midfielder capable of adding steel and swagger to their engine room.

His press-resistant traits, ball progression, tenacity, and tactical intelligence will alleviate the burden carried by Declan Rice over recent campaigns.

Upon the completion of medical tests, Guimaraes will complete his long-awaited switch to the capital.

Preston North End and Huddersfield Town will kick off in the Carabao Cup First Round on Saturday, August 8 in unique surroundings.

The two Football League clubs meet at Everton’s former ground, Goodison Park, rather than Deepdale.

The venue shift stems from pitch improvement work currently taking place at Preston's home stadium of Deepdale.

Preston North End vs Huddersfield Town at Goodison Park explained

Following a summer renovation, the playing surface at Preston remains unprepared for competitive fixtures, forcing the Lancashire club to source a temporary neutral venue to fulfil their cup commitment.

Preston released an official statement which read: "Preston North End have agreed a deal with Everton to host the club’s first round Carabao Cup tie against Huddersfield Town.

"The tie will be played at 3pm on Saturday 8th August at Goodison Park, the home of Everton Women, formerly the home of the Toffees men's first team up until their move ahead of the 25/26 season.

"The Lilywhites applied to the EFL for permission to play at the alternative venue due to the installation of the new hybrid pitch at Deepdale.

"The pitch will be complete in time for the club’s first home league game against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday 22nd August, but to ensure no issues after a significant £1.5m-plus investment, the decision was made to ask permission to play away from PR1 in round one."

Last summer, Everton moved to their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, leaving operational use of Goodison Park to their women's team.

The arrangement grants the 134-year-old stadium another evening of senior men's football before a planned community redevelopment phase gets underway.

Merely eight months ago, Mohamed Salah was benched for three consecutive matches by struggling Liverpool manager Arne Slot.

The response from the Egyptian was vicious: a scathing assessment of Slot's management, and veiled accusations towards the Reds' hierarchy, claiming the prerogative was to see him escorted for financial gain out of the back door.

Salah believed then, and later backed it up, that he had far more left to give to the game. With his move to Trabzonspor confirmed, those media antics should be called out exactly as they now appear – farcical, disappointing, and an insult to his most ardent fans.

Mohamed Salah has betrayed himself and his supporters with this decision, but the Egyptian can still achieve redemption

The truth is, Salah was right. Being benched was a statement, and the Liverpool hierarchy were almost certainly devising ways to send him packing, and free up their wage bill from his astronomical salary.

But his choice to move to the Super Lig, a competition that would do well to make it into the world's top ten highest-quality leagues, is no less than a stab in the back to those long-time supporters that adamantly defended him in light of that unfair treatment.

Salah ended the 2025/26 season with 29 goal contributions across the Premier League, Champions League, Africa Cup of Nations, and the World Cup.

He appeared in just 41 games for Liverpool, reaching 22 involvements in at least ten less matches played than any season barring 2023/24, another injury-ridden campaign for Salah, since the turn of the decade.

He enjoyed his most prolific Africa Cup of Nations campaign with Egypt, and spearheaded his nation to their first-ever World Cup win, and a victory in the knock-outs vs Australia, with seven contributions across both major tournaments.

But even his most optimistic supporters would surely concede that the decision to move to Turkey reeks of a man who has seemingly given up.

In a summer when similarly aged departing Premier League legends have opted to lower their salary demands to remain at the top level, including free agents Bernardo Silva and John Stones, both leaving the team that Salah rivalled for nearly a decade, this decision should disappoint followers of his extraordinary career deeply.

FourFourTwo understands that the Egyptian, now the highest paid player in Europe after tax, turned down lower salary offers from multiple clubs in the Serie A. Even Salah's most vocal critic, Jamie Carragher, acknowledged that Turkey is ‘a level too low' for the Liverpool icon, and confessed that he expected to see him back in Italy.

FourFourTwo also understands that two factors were particularly vital in Salah's decision: his wife, Magi, was enticed by Turkey as a location for their family to live in, and, naturally, the size of his enormous pay packet played a significant role, which links back to his financially strained upbringing in Nagrig.

The Salah family purchased a sea-view villa for $10 million in Bodrum, Turkey, over a year ago, which initially signalled that they believed the country was as an attractive place to reside.

The Egyptian escaped impoverished, isolated conditions from his rural farming village roots to become one of the greatest players in history, and, as a result, Salah views salary as a crucial measurement of his worth and success.

Despite these motivations, the collective disapproval of this decision globally is entirely rightful, and becomes far more intense when narrowed down solely to Egyptian supporters.

In that corner of the world, the response is fuelled by love – Salah is the greatest African footballer in history, and he, virtually single-handedly, put their nation on the sporting map.

But to see the Liverpool icon choose money over glory feels like both the disappointing conclusion to an era they hoped would never end, and a deep betrayal, because he appears to have pulled the plug prematurely.

For those fans, the ones who believed Salah's words when he told the press last December that he is still one of the finest players in the world, and watched him excel for the Egyptian national team throughout 2026, it is as sad as it is rage-inducing.

Luckily for the 34-year-old, he can indeed redeem himself. But he has placed a ludicrous burden on his shoulders, perhaps the most ever in his career, to pull off a feat he has been unable to get over the line since his debut.

That is to win the Africa Cup of Nations for Egypt, the most successful footballing nation in the competition's history, who have never won the tournament since Salah made his international debut.

Of course, Salah is far from responsible for that. In fact, the 34-year-old is the primary reason that Egypt did not fade into obscurity after the Port Said disaster stalled footballing development in the country, back in 2012.

The riot tragically caused the deaths of 74 people, and injuries to over 500 others, and shut down domestic football in Egypt for two years.

As a result, the national team was greatly affected, and Salah's talent was integral in them still making it to two AFCON finals in 2017 and 2021, and the third and fourth World Cups in Egypt's history.

To redeem himself in the eyes of those who rightfully feel that Salah has abandoned his competitive edge at an age far too early (the Egyptian, one of football's fittest athletes, confessed to Gary Neville in 2025 that he will still be playing at 40), winning Africa's greatest international prize is a must.

During his Premier League playing days, it became truth among fans that the tournament, if held mid-season, would inevitably lead Salah to suffer an underwhelming end to the campaign, due to the overwhelming demands of Africa Cup of Nations football.

This was clearly evident in 2021/22, when the now 34-year-old was, by a considerable stretch, the best player in the world from August to December, contributing to 21 goals in 15 straight Premier League games.

During the January tournament, he registered involvements in 75% of Egypt's goals en-route to the final vs Senegal, which Salah's side lost, and played four consecutive matches that went to 120 minutes.

Upon his return to Liverpool, Salah's output dropped, as the mental and physical load of carrying his domestic and international sides finally took its toll.

In Turkey? That problem no longer exists, not even at 34, with Salah being able to enjoy the lessened physical impacts of a far, far less competitive league than the English top-flight.

And with Egypt almost prevailing against eventual finalists Argentina at the 2026 World Cup, in which Salah delivered a stunning assist for his country's second of the game, which was controversially disallowed, expectations were already high ahead of the 2027 tournament.

The Liverpool legend will have two chances back-to-back, first in 2027, during the summer tournament hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, then again in 2028.

After that, the Africa Cup of Nations will be held every four years, meaning Salah's next opportunity would be in 2032. That is, for obvious reasons, entirely unfeasible.

In the Super Lig, Salah's clearest shot at Turkish football immortality is taking Trabzonspor to Europa League glory, if the team even makes it beyond the qualifying phases.

However, long-time fans of the Egyptian will likely not care even if he breaks Messi's 91-goal calendar year haul in Turkey. A better ending to his career could have came still on Merseyside, continuing to break Premier League records as a rotational player.

Perhaps most sickeningly of all for those supporters, this choice has effectively vindicated the most dishonest of narratives surrounding Salah, even emanating from within the Liverpool fanbase, that rushed to proclaim him as 'finished' after one sub-par season.

Salah still has plenty left in the tank, even if his transfer priorities appear to disagree with his, often warranted, arrogant antics.

He can cement his legacy in finely carved stone with the Africa Cup of Nations victory which has eluded him for his entire career, but Egyptians will no longer accept excuses if he doesn't find the means to prevail.

For a player who impossibly escaped the most arduous of childhood circumstances and became arguably the greatest player in Premier League history, it feels bizarrely apt that he'd place such extraordinary pressure on himself to deliver at the tail end of his journey.

And somehow, because it's always somehow with Mohamed Salah, isn't it obvious he will do it?

Barcelona are on the brink of pulling off one of the most daring transfer hijacks of the summer window.

Ahead of arch-rivals Real Madrid, Los Cules are reportedly now in pole position to secure the signature of Manchester City midfielder Rodri.

According to a report from The Athletic, the Catalan giants have swooped in, capitalising on a breakdown in negotiations between Madrid and Man City, with a deal to take the 30-year-old Spain captain to Spotify Camp Nou now nearing completion.

Rodri to Real Madrid HIJACKED

For weeks, it appeared as though Real Madrid looked destined to land Rodri.

Following his excellent performances leading Spain to World Cup glory, Madrid president Florentino Perez supposedly prioritised the former Villarreal and Atletico Madrid star as the missing piece in Los Blancos' midfield.

Despite reaching an initial verbal agreement on personal terms, transfer talks between Madrid and Man City have broken down.

The Spanish club were unwilling to meet City’s £80 million asking price given he turns 31 next summer and is entering the final year of his contract. City’s refusal to lower their demands stalled progress, leaving the door open for a late intervention.

Rodri is reportedly open to the idea of joining Barcelona instead of Madrid, which will no doubt leave Man City chiefs pleased given the previous breakdown in talks that would have cost them up to £80m.

Barcelona are keen to bolster their central midfield options after a long-term injury to Frenkie de Jong, too.

With Los Cules guaranteeing a key tactical role alongside up-and-coming pair Pau Cubarsi and Lamine Yamal, Rodri has reportedly agreed to make the switch to Catalonia rather than Madrid.

A successful hijack would represent a statement of intent for Barcelona ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The LaLiga champions' transfer decision could see them land one of the world's best defensive midfielders, in addition to doing so from under the noses of their closest rivals.

For Real Madrid, losing out on their top transfer target to Barcelona would be a bitter pill to swallow, but does free up resources and strengthen their negotiating positions elsewhere.

When reports first surfaced linking Arsenal with a move for Real Madrid’s Vinicius Júnior, eyes widened across North London and further afield.

Signing one of world football’s best wingers would be the ultimate statement of intent for a club keen to build on their recent Premier League success.

But strip away supporters' excitement over transfer rumours and examine the realities of modern transfer sagas, and a very different picture emerges.

Vinicius Jr. knows how to work the Real Madrid boardroom

It is this writer's opinion that Arsenal are not on the verge of landing a Real Madrid superstar.

Instead they're being used as a pawn in a game of contract poker with eye-watering stakes.

The core of this drama lies in the ongoing contract negotiations at the Santiago Bernabeu.

According to reports from ESPN, Real Madrid recently presented Vinicius with a fresh extension offer worth approximately €22 million per year. For Vinicius, this fell short of expectations, leading to another round of contract talks.

The 26-year-old Brazilian international is said to have rejected the proposal, with his representatives holding out for a total package closer to €30m annually, to reflect his standing alongside football's top earners and importance at Real Madrid.

Enter Arsenal.

Reports of Mikel Arteta’s interest and the Gunners' theoretical willingness to make Vinicius the highest-paid player in their history have naturally made headlines - he would be the Premier League's marquee summer signing.

But while Arsenal are undeniably ambitious, the notion that the Emirates hierarchy would blow apart their wage structure to offer in excess of the €22 million proposed by Real Madrid is fanciful.

Arsenal have built their recent success on smart financial discipline; destroying that wage balance for a single arrival would undermine a lot that Arteta has built during his seven years in charge.

The public narrative of Arsenal links growing increasingly credible couldn't be more conveniently timed for Vinicius' camp.

With just 12 months remaining on his current contract, Real Madrid face time pressure to reach a solution that satisfies all parties. This window represents the club's final realistic opportunity to command an above-market transfer fee for their star man before risking a cut-price deal or losing him for free next summer.

Florentino Perez and the Madrid board know they are backed into a corner: sign the extension or watch a prime asset walk next summer.

In modern transfer sagas, a mega-club’s public interest is the ultimate bargaining chip, and Vinicius evidently knows how to play the room.

Keeping Arsenal’s interest front and centre, and highly publicised, Vinicius and his representatives are generating maximum leverage for ongoing contract talks. The threat of the Premier League champions waiting in the wings forces Real Madrid’s hand, nudging them closer to bending towards that €30m figure.

Arsenal’s summer pursuit of Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes is reaching its climax as the Brazilian midfielder prepares to finalise a £75 million move to the North London club.

Fresh details have emerged revealing the specific negotiation tactics employed by the Gunners during the transfer saga which is nearing a conclusion.

According to Sky Sports' North East reporter Keith Downie, Newcastle executives were left perplexed by Arsenal’s approach, particularly during the initial weeks of discussions.

Bruno Guimaraes to Arsenal is almost a done deal

The groundwork for the transfer was reportedly laid weeks ago when intermediaries approached Newcastle to gauge what it would take to tempt their star midfielder to the Emirates Stadium.

Shortly thereafter, Guimaraes indicated to Newcastle management that he was open to joining the reigning Premier League champions.

Rather than capitalising on the momentum with an immediate, official approach, Arsenal backed off.

Downie reports: "Arsenal elongated the transfer by refusing to contact Newcastle for weeks — which Newcastle found bizarre."

Instead of opening a direct line of communication between boardrooms, Arsenal are said to have continued operating through middle-men for an extended period. This approach reportedly left Newcastle officials scratching their heads over why the Gunners were deliberately stalling formal contact when the player's interest had already been established.

Newcastle were desperate to retain Guimaraes and had zero desire to sell their marquee midfielder, but found their hands tied. Had the 28-year-old expressed a willingness to remain on Tyneside, the Magpies would have rejected any offers from Arsenal or any rival suitor.

However, 28-year-old Guimaraes maintained his stance, informing Newcastle bosses that he wanted to leave because he felt joining Arsenal represented a better chance of competing for major titles.

Once Arsenal did initiate club-to-club contact and met Newcastle's financial valuation, negotiations progressed swiftly towards the £75m agreement which is close to being ratified by the Premier League.

Relations between Guimaraes and Newcastle remain entirely amicable ahead of his arrival in North London.

While losing their captain is a major blow, the £75m windfall provides financial flexibility as the club rebuilds itself ahead of the new season and a new sporting cycle on Tyneside.

Fighting relegation could not have been further away from Spurs' aspirations this time last year, after winning the Europa League and hiring Thomas Frank.

The harsh reality was that it took victory on the final day to retain their Premier League status, on the back of a torrid 12 months. While the inquest into who is to blame will continue for some time yet, one thing is certain: in 2026-27, there can be no mention of the ‘R' word again.

The feeling among fans is that it surely can't get any worse than finishing 17th twice in succession (Mick McCarthy meme notwithstanding), so there are reasons for optimism.

Surely it is only up from here for Spurs?

Fortunately, Spurs' finances were still in good shape having avoided the drop, and they moved quickly to add players to their squad. Marcos Senesi is among the top flight's best centre-backs and Jan Paul van Hecke a reliable partner for him, while Andy Robertson will maintain standards.

Midfielder Mateus Fernandes then arrived from West Ham for £85m, a club record fee quickly eclipsed when a deal was agreed to bring in Sandro Tonali for £100m. Roberto De Zerbi can now shape a new squad. The miracles that the Italian boss worked in turning around Spurs' season cannot be underestimated, and the time he'll get on the training pitch should set up Spurs to climb into the top half, at least – ideally before a very spicy May schedule.

The Coach

If Roberto De Zerbi's first few months are anything to go by, this season could be far more entertaining for Spurs fans (in a good way). Galvanising an underperforming team was an impressive opening act, and even his combustible nature is preferable to drab pragmatism.

Key Player

Before injury ended his season in January, Mohammed Kudus was providing the sort of game-changing moments his side needed, and subsequently missed. Was he consistent? No, but the Ghanaian is brilliant in 1v1 situations and can benefit from De Zerbi's style of play.

Last Season's Results

PREMIER LEAGUE: 17th

FA CUP: Third Round

LEAGUE CUP: Fourth Round

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE: Last 16

Top Scorer

Richarlison bagged 12 goals in all competitions for his Spurs side last season.

Lessons From Last Year

Build a squad big enough to deal with injuries and a busy schedule. Not having European football this season is arguably no bad thing for Spurs, who have faced an injury crisis like no other over the past two years. But with that comes the expectation of a deep cup run, where midweek changes cannot reduce the overall quality of the XI.

Most Likely To...

Continue their tradition of taking points from Manchester City while struggling to get anything from the North London Derby. They've picked up just one point from their last eight Premier League matches against Arsenal – they must do better, if only to make their rivals' title charge a bit more difficult.

Least Likely To...

Consistently sell out their stadium. The relationship between the club and the fans has been damaged – a few signings won't fix that. The away support is fantastic, but convincing fans to buy the league's second-most expensive season ticket – after three wins there – is a big ask. At least tourists love it…

View From The Stands

Words by: TOM HAYWARD

Last season was utterly embarrassing, pathetic, cowardly – take your pick.

This season will be different because Roberto De Zerbi has earned the right to a very strong summer, by saving us from financial and reputational ruin with a mid-table Championship squad to pick from. Can he now build on what he cultivated in two months?

Our key player will be James Maddison. I hope he can return to his best level. We badly missed his quality and character.

Look out for young striker Will Lankshear. He had a decent season on loan in the Championship, and there's an opening for a homegrown hitman to make a hero of himself…

The opposition player I'd love here is Morgan Rogers – absolute class.

I won't be happy unless we sign three or four attackers. The quality and availability of last term's forward options might have been our worst in the Premier League era.

Fans think our owners are incompetent, at best.

A social media account to follow is Change For Tottenham (CFT), AKA @ChangeForSpurs, which is a fan group dedicated to holding owners ENIC to account for the first time.

The ground I'm least looking forward to visiting is the Emirates. No league wins there in 16 years is unacceptable.

Our biggest grudge match will be against anyone and everyone who wanted us to go down last season – so they're all on our list.

We'll finish 8th.

Fixtures

AUGUST

22 Brentford (A)

29 Newcastle (H)

SEPTEMBER

5 Nott'm Forest (A)

12 Everton (H)

19 Aston Villa (H)

OCTOBER

10 Man United (A)

17 Coventry (H)

24 Chelsea (A)

31 Crystal Palace (H)

NOVEMBER

7 Leeds (A)

21 Ipswich (H)

28 Sunderland (A)

DECEMBER

2 Fulham (H)

5 Arsenal (H)

12 Hull City (A)

19 Liverpool (A)

26 Bournemouth (H)

30 Brighton (H)

JANUARY

2 Man City (A)

6 Fulham (A)

16 Leeds (H)

23 Crystal Palace (A)

30 Sunderland (H)

FEBRUARY

6 Ipswich (A)

10 Man City (H)

20 Brighton (A)

27 Liverpool (H)

MARCH

3 Bournemouth (A)

13 Nott'm Forest (H)

20 Everton (A)

APRIL

10 Brentford (H)

17 Newcastle (A)

24 Hull City (H)

MAY

1 Arsenal (A)

8 Chelsea (H)

15 Coventry (A)

23 Man United (H)

30 Aston Villa (A)

Title Odds

Tottenham Hotspur to win the Premier League title odds: 50/1

FFT Verdict

FourFourTwo verdict: Tottenham Hotspur to finish 8th.

The improvement in performances following De Zerbi's late arrival was remarkable, so imagine what he can do with a pre-season and better, fitter players at his disposal. That's the theory, anyway…

This feature was written in June as part of FourFourTwo magazine's legendary Season Preview issue which can be ordered here.

Given the extraordinary feats of Regis Le Bris' plucky side over the past year, Sunderland's outlook going into this season is wildly different to last.

Ahead of 2025-26, everyone expected an inexperienced Black Cats side to be battling for survival after their Championship play-off triumph.

Instead, they produced one of the stories of the season, finishing seventh and immediately qualifying for the Europa League.

Can Regis Le Bris' men shock the world once more?

Le Bris blended the core that took Sunderland up with a series of ambitious signings, including Nordi Mukiele from PSG and Brian Brobbey from Ajax.

Granit Xhaka was arguably the Premier League's signing of the season, rocking up 12 months after a near-flawless campaign at Bayer Leverkusen to bring leadership and composure to the newly promoted side. Two more core additions, Noah Sadiki and Omar Alderete, were less heralded but no less impressive.

The Stadium of Light quickly became one of the league's most difficult away trips. Sunderland's own travels brought them wins over Chelsea, Everton and, most satisfyingly, neighbours Newcastle. Now comes the even trickier part. Sunderland are a surprise package no more.

The squad must balance domestic commitments with Thursday nights in Europe. We've seen how that schedule can cause growing clubs to crumble. Fans will rightly love every trip, but the club must keep its feet on the ground.

The Coach

Sunderland's appointment of Regis Le Bris in June 2024 appeared strange, given that he'd just been relegated from Ligue 1 with Lorient. It was a masterstroke: the ex-defender trusted youth to take the Black Cats back to the promised land, then to even greater heights.

Key Player

Enzo Le Fee's arrival in January 2025 caught the attention – six months after joining Roma for around £20m, he was moving on loan to the Championship. The midfielder quickly helped Sunderland to win promotion, then signed permanently and impressed again in the top tier.

Last Season's Results

PREMIER LEAGUE: 7th

FA CUP: Fifth Round

LEAGUE CUP: Second Round

Top Scorer

Brian Brobbey bagged seven goals in all competitions last season for Sunderland.

All seven came in the Premier League, and he added an assist to that haul in 31 appearances.

Lessons From Last Year

The kids are all right. Sunderland had the youngest average starting XI in their promotion campaign, then the second youngest (after Chelsea) in the Premier League.

That couldn't stop them dazzling, and Le Bris deserves huge credit for giving youngsters opportunities to play. Robin Roefs, Chemsdine Talbi, Chris Rigg, Habib Diarra and Eliezer Mayenda all found regular game time while under the age of 23. They rarely looked out of place.

Most Likely To...

Come out on top in the Tyne-Wear derby. For all of last term's heroics, beating Newcastle home and away was the sweetest achievement of all. Brobbey's late St James' Park winner to complete the double in March is a moment that travelling supporters will never forget – nor let their rivals forget.

Least Likely To...

Pay attention to the doubters. Few neutrals expected Sunderland to survive, let alone finish in the top seven. They became only the fifth newly promoted club to qualify for Europe through league position.

View From The Stands

Words by: MICHAEL POTTS @MichaelPotts_

Last season was a fairy tale. We were meant to go down without a trace, not end up in Europe for the first time in 53 years. There's a buzz around the place – the city is on a high and you can feel it.

This season will be different because last season was almost a free hit – now we've set the bar ridiculously high.

The big talking point is if we're prepared for the Thursday-Sunday routine. A reminder: we “weren't prepared for the Premier League” 12 months ago.

Our key player will be Enzo Le Fee. With goals, assists and graft, too, he's probably the most gifted footballer I've ever seen play in red and white. I'm enjoying him while I can.

Look out for 21-year-old midfielder Noah Sadiki, who joined us last year. The reason we're going back to the Moon is to find some ground he hasn't covered yet.

The opposition player who grinds my gears is Joelinton. He's the softest hard man you'll ever see on a football pitch.

Fans think our owner is the best thing to happen to our club in decades.

The one change I'd make at our club is to expand the Stadium of Light. We sell it out every week – people can't get season tickets – so it's time to go above 50,000.

I won't be happy unless we reach the Europa League knockouts. I'd accept a weaker league campaign to make the most of our shot.

We'll finish 12th, after a run to the Europa League final. Dare to dream, eh?

Fixtures

AUGUST

22 Ipswich (A)

29 Fulham (H)

SEPTEMBER

5 Brentford (A)

12 Arsenal (H)

19 Man City (A)

OCTOBER

10 Brighton (H)

17 Bournemouth (A)

24 Leeds (H)

31 Coventry (A)

NOVEMBER

7 Chelsea (H)

21 Aston Villa (A)

28 Tottenham (H)

DECEMBER

2 Liverpool (A)

5 Newcastle (A)

12 Nott'm Forest (H)

19 Crystal Palace (H)

26 Everton (A)

30 Man United (A)

JANUARY

2 Hull City (H)

6 Liverpool (H)

16 Chelsea (A)

23 Coventry (H)

30 Tottenham (A)

FEBRUARY

6 Aston Villa (H)

10 Hull City (A)

20 Everton (H)

27 Crystal Palace (A)

MARCH

3 Man United (H)

13 Brentford (H)

20 Arsenal (A)

APRIL

10 Ipswich (H)

17 Fulham (A)

24 Nott'm Forest (A)

MAY

1 Newcastle (H)

8 Brighton (A)

15 Bournemouth (H)

23 Leeds (A)

30 Man City (H)

Title Odds

Sunderland to win the Premier League title odds: 500/1

FFT Verdict

FourFourTwo verdict: Sunderland to finish 17th.

A leap from 12th to 7th in the final two games was a reward for bold transfers, even if xG tables (sorry) had them 18th. Pfft! Enjoy Europe and trust that the squad has the strength – if not depth – to survive.

This feature was written in June as part of FourFourTwo magazine's legendary Season Preview issue which can be ordered here.

Leeds are set to miss out on the signing of a long-standing player of interest after it emerged Premier League rivals Fulham have moved into advanced negotiations.

According to a report from Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg, the Cottagers are closing in on an agreement to bring 22-year-old Southampton man Shea Charles to Craven Cottage.

Talks between the two clubs are said to be around a transfer fee of approximately £25 million, with personal terms not thought to be an issue.

Leeds miss out on Shea Charles signing

Leeds have had a long-held interest in the Northern Ireland international and are understood to have identified Charles as a main target to bolster their central midfield options.

However, the Saints hierarchy consistently held firm, turning down a succession of bids from Elland Road insisting on their £25 million valuation.

The reluctance to meet Southampton's price has seemingly allowed Fulham to step in and seize control of the race to sign the highly-rated youngster.

Charles’ tactical versatility and domestic background has made him a coveted player in this window.

Having developed within Manchester City’s youth system before joining Southampton in a £10.5 million deal in 2023, the midfielder qualifies as a homegrown player.

His composure, press-resistance, and defensive work-rate saw him emerge as a key performer on the south coast.

Manchester City are said to have retained a 15 per cent sell-on clause during his initial sale, meaning the reigning Premier League champions will collect a portion of the incoming £25m fee.

While Charles would have been happy to end up in West Yorkshire, moving up a division in the process, the prospect of immediate top-flight football under Fulham manager Alvaro Arbeloa has swung negotiations in the West Londoners' favour.

Fulham are now expected to finalise personal terms, meaning Leeds will be forced to pivot to alternative options to bolster their engine room before the deadline passes.

The Whites, however, are still on track to secure the signing of fellow homegrown star and ex-Manchester City academy graduate James Trafford.

Nottingham Forest went into the 2025-26 season on a high, having finished seventh the year before and qualified for Europe for the first time in 29 years. It didn't take long for things to unravel.

Nuno Espirito Santo was sacked just three games into the season, and what followed was a comedy of errors.

Another two permanent managers came and went (Ange Postecoglou lasted eight matches, Sean Dyche 25 matches) as Forest battled relegation. Survival was eventually sealed by gaffer number four, Vitor Pereira, courtesy of an impressive fightback in the spring.

Oliver Glasner must steady the Nottingham Forest ship and get the club back into Europe and trophy contention

The recipe for success under the (second) former Wolves manager was based around unshackling Morgan Gibbs-White. Forest's talisman bagged nine goals in 10 league games under Pereira and deserved as much credit as anyone for the club's strong finish. Far more admirable was Forest's European form, as Brian Clough's old club rolled back the years.

Beating the likes of Porto (twice) and Fenerbahce, they reached the Europa League semi-finals, where they ultimately lost to Aston Villa. The sparkling form of Igor Jesus was crucial to that progress. Supporting Evangelos Marinakis' Forest is never dull, though, with Pereira sacked this summer, and replaced by Oliver Glasner. Most fans would settle for managerial continuity and a mid-table finish in 2026-27. It's hard to feel certain of either of those outcomes.

The Coach

Oliver Glasner held talks with Milan this summer after opting to call time on two-and-a-half years with Crystal Palace, so his decision to join Forest, who finished one place below the Eagles, was a surprise. How things go could depend on his relationship with the owner.

Key Player (and Top Scorer)

Morgan Gibbs-White, 26, is so central to Forest – creative, relentless in the press and increasingly deadly, scoring 15 league goals – that his World Cup squad omission bordered on a shock.

The Englishman bagged 18 goals in all competitions for his side, the most from any individual at the club. Forest supporters will be praying he avoids more horrific facial injuries this term.

Last Season's Results

PREMIER LEAGUE: 16th

FA CUP: Third Round

LEAGUE CUP: Third Round

EUROPA LEAGUE: Semi-final

Lessons From Last Year

Consistency is key. For the second year running, and despite having several different managers, Forest largely used the same back five in the Premier League as long as they were available: keeper Matz Sels behind Ola Aina, Murillo, Nikola Milenkovic and Neco Williams.

That quintet, screened by Elliot Anderson and Ibrahim Sangare, were crucial to the Tricky Trees conceding fewer goals than Liverpool and Bournemouth, and just one more than third-placed Manchester United.

While it was a season to forget in front of goal, Forest had the joint eighth-best defence and that's ultimately what kept them in the division.

Most Likely To...

Rotate elsewhere. Only relegated West Ham (32) used more players than Forest (31) last term.

Least Likely To...

Bask in mid-table serenity. In the club's four seasons back in the top flight, they've finished 16th, 17th, 7th and 16th. So, expect Forest to either push for Europe or be mired in a battle for survival.

View From The Stands

Words by: LEE CLARKE @redsidetrentpod

Last season was certainly memorable. The first club to have four managers in a Premier League season also reached the Europa League semi-finals, while finishing 16th. Turbulent.

The big talking point is whether we can actually keep one manager for the whole season.

Our key player will be Morgan Gibbs-White. We have to keep him. He got 18 goals and seven assists in the league and Europe last year. We can't replace him and Elliot Anderson in the same summer.

The active player I'd love to have back is Anthony Elanga.

The opposition player I'd love here is Jarrod Bowen. It's unrealistic, due to his elite quality, but he'd be an amazing fit for our system.

The opposition player who grinds my gears is Bruno Fernandes. The bloke is like a petulant kid who has been told he can't have the last Rolo!

Fans think our owner is determined, passionate and a little crazy – but his heart is in the right place.

The pantomime villain will be Sean Dyche, if any top flight side is mental enough to take him on. If not, it'll be Frank Lampard due to his Derby links.

The best thing about matchdays at our ground is The Nav. It's a brilliant boozer with top-notch beer, a football quiz and a barbecue on site.

A social media account to follow is @wt_analysis – he recently got himself a job in football, based on his brilliant data on all things Nottingham Forest.

We'll finish in the top 10.

Fixtures

AUGUST

22 Leeds (H)

29 Liverpool (A)

SEPTEMBER

5 Tottenham (H)

12 Aston Villa (A)

19 Coventry (H)

OCTOBER

10 Crystal Palace (A)

17 Arsenal (H)

24 Ipswich (A)

31 Brentford (A)

NOVEMBER

7 Man City (H)

21 Bournemouth (A)

28 Chelsea (H)

DECEMBER

2 Hull City (A)

5 Brighton (H)

12 Sunderland (A)

19 Everton (H)

26 Man United (A)

30 Newcastle (A)

JANUARY

2 Fulham (H)

6 Hull City (H)

16 Man City (A)

23 Bournemouth (H)

30 Chelsea (A)

FEBRUARY

6 Brentford (H)

10 Fulham (A)

20 Man United (H)

27 Everton (A)

MARCH

3 Newcastle (H)

13 Tottenham (A)

20 Aston Villa (H)

APRIL

10 Leeds (A)

17 Liverpool (H)

24 Sunderland (H)

MAY

1 Brighton (A)

8 Crystal Palace (H)

15 Arsenal (A)

23 Ipswich (H)

30 Coventry (A)

Title Odds

Nottingham Forest to win the Premier League title odds: 500/1

FFT Verdict

FourFourTwo verdict: Nottingham Forest to finish 18th.

It could be the latter, particularly after the departure of Anderson. Glasner's arrival does give them more hope, though – if Pereira had started the season, we feared for a repeat of Wolves' slide.

This feature was written in June as part of FourFourTwo magazine's legendary Season Preview issue which can be ordered here.

Known for his high-pressing, Red Bull-educated style and sharp tactical focus, 38-year-old German coach Jaissle has developed a reputation as one of the most highly-rated young bosses in top-level football - but his appointment is still a risk.

Whenever a manager takes charge of a major project, they naturally look to familiar faces - players who already understand things such as pressing triggers, defensive demands, and dressing room culture.

Once his appointment is rubber-stamped, it would be reasonable to expect Jaissle to recommend such personnel to the Newcastle hierarchy.

Seven players Newcastle might sign under Matthias Jaissle

Despite so far having had a summer in which they have been one of the Premier League's more active clubs in the market, Newcastle are still in need of targeted reinforcements throughout the side.

It is for that reason, the 'Jaissle effect' could be important during the final month of the summer window. Here are seven players who worked under Jaissle and fit Newcastle's squad requirements.

Nicolas Seiwald (Defensive Midfield)

Appearances under Jaissle: 91 (6 goals, 14 assists)

No outfield player featured more frequently for Jaissle during his trophy-laden tenure at Red Bull Salzburg than Austrian midfielder Nicolas Seiwald.

Functioning as the engine of Jaissle’s midfield diamond, Seiwald reigstered 91 appearances under the German, offering press-resistance and defensive coverage. Newcastle's midfield lacks depth in the holding role, making Seiwald a candidate to rejoin his former boss.

Gabri Veiga (Attacking Midfield)

Appearances under Jaissle: 66 (12 goals, 10 assists)

After making the switch from LaLiga to Al-Ahli, Spanish playmaker Gabri Veiga began working under Jaissle.

Across 66 matches together in Saudi Arabia, Veiga contributed 12 goals and 10 assists before joining FC Porto last summer. With Newcastle seeking a goal-scoring midfielder capable of unlocking low blocks, Jaissle could provide 24-year-old Veiga with the platform for a top-five league reboot.

Oumar Solet (Centre-Back)

Appearances under Jaissle: 66 (2 goals, 4 assists)

Jaissle’s aggressive, high-line defence at Red Bull Salzburg relied heavily on recovery speed and composure of his central defenders, of which Oumar Solet was one.

Featuring 66 times under Jaissle, Solet knows how to play in his backline that routinely dominated domestically and competed admirably in the Champions League. With Newcastle needing long-term athleticism and ball-playing quality at centre-back, Solet fits the tactical profile.

Amar Dedic (Right-Back)

Appearances under Jaissle: 52 (4 goals, 6 assists)

Bosnian full-back Amar Dedic enjoyed his breakout under Jaissle at Salzburg, making 52 appearances and contributing direct to 10 goals from right-back.

His ability to invert into midfield or overlap down the right aligns with Jaissle’s tactical flexibility. Given Newcastle's need to refresh their options at full-back after Kieran Trippier's exit and Tino Livramento's persistent injuries, Dedic could be an option given he already knows the manager's demands.

Mohamed Camara (Defensive Midfield)

Appearances under Jaissle: 43 (1 goal, 5 assists)

Before earning a move to AS Monaco, Malian midfield enforcer Mohamed Camara was the defensive anchor of Jaissle’s 2021/22 domestic double-winning Salzburg side.

Playing 43 games under the soon-to-be-named Newcastle coach, Camara demonstrated excellent ball-winning capabilities as well as decent ability in possession. His tenacity in duel-heavy games would instantly bolster Newcastle's stability in the middle of the park, which is in need of some experience and steel.

Enzo Millot (Attacking Midfield)

Appearances under Jaissle: 40 (9 goals, 7 assists)

French midfielder Enzo Millot worked closely with Jaissle at Al-Ahli, making 40 appearances and registering 16 direct goal contributions.

Millot’s tactical nous, exhibited whilst in the Bundesliga with VfB Stuttgart, and pressing energy make him a coach's dream in a high-intensity transitional system. Newcastle's squad would benefit from his quality between the lines.

Karim Konate (Centre-Forward)

Appearances under Jaissle: 10 (5 goals, 2 assists)

Ivorian striker Karim Konate made his initial top-flight breakthrough under Jaissle at Salzburg, netting 5 goals and laying on 2 assists in just 10 appearances.

Despite that limited sample size before the manager's departure, Konate showed good goalscoring efficiency that foreshadowed his more recent rise as a top striking talent in a mid-tier European league.

While bringing in Jaissle’s trusted former players makes sense on paper, fans would be wise to temper expectations of an instant transformation.

Moving on from almost five years of stability under Eddie Howe marks a significant structural shift, leaving a dressing room very much in a state of flux and notably lacking in natural on-pitch leadership. That will be a responsibility that Jaissle himself must bear while adapting to the demands of English football.

Rebuilding a squad in transition is rarely as simple as importing a cluster of familiar faces. While players like Seiwald, Veiga, or Solet know Jaissle’s style, few will arrive with an immediate grasp of the unique weight, culture, and expectations that come with representing Newcastle or a Premier League club.

Recruiting players who know the manager's playbook can certainly help with tactical implementation, but assembling a reshaped squad under a head coach who is still figuring out the club for himself is a delicate process.

Signing Jaissle's former players may well prove the evolutionary route Newcastle take in 2026/27 and beyond, but it is by no means a guaranteed blueprint for instant success.

A new era is underway at Anfield again. After Arne Slot's two-year reign was ended following a miserable campaign with 19 defeats in all competitions, Andoni Iraola has been charged with reinstalling the attacking identity demanded by Reds fans.

Iraola's Bournemouth certainly displayed that quality. The Basque manager delivered an aggressive, progressive style, utilising quick, direct wingers, a high defensive line and pressing in attack.

Did somebody say “Jurgen Klopp”? Kopites are hoping for Klopp-like football, having grown frustrated by Slot's slow build-up and passive play. Iraola's message to Liverpool fans upon arrival was upbeat, capturing the imagination: “I can only say I want to become one of you; to earn the right to belong.” That's been enough to restore optimism after a difficult year.

It's the dawn of a new era at Liverpool, and Andoni Iraola must restore a lost hope

However, they will be a different proposition with the departures of Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate – a key trio not just on the pitch, but around the club.

New leaders need to step up, because nine players from the title-winning squad of a little over a year ago have already left.

Nobody expects a title challenge in Iraola's maiden season, but a return to more attractive football and clear signs of an identity will be needed, and fast.

The lack of a trophy on his managerial CV, or experience coaching in European competition, are both concerns.

The Coach

Andoni Iraola is only the 22nd Liverpool manager in 134 years, which shows that it was no easy decision to part ways with Slot so soon. But Iraola offers the exciting football that fans missed, while his Basque roots mean he can understand the city's outsider mentality.

Key Player

Virgil van Dijk is 35 now, yet he played every league minute in 2025-26, then went to the World Cup. With Giovanni Leoni (19) and inexperienced new signing Jeremy Jacquet (21) alongside him, and Ibrahima Konate gone, the Dutchman's experience will be vital.

Last Season's Results

PREMIER LEAGUE: 5th

FA CUP: Quarter-final

LEAGUE CUP: Fourth Round

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE: Quarter-final

Top Scorer

Hugo Ekitike was Liverpool's top goalscorer last year, with 17 strikes in all competitions.

That figure is a stark drop-off from the 30-40 goal campaigns produced by Salah from 2017-2024.

Ekitike is sidelined with injury until likely 2027, and whoever the Reds' top scorer is this year will surely have to produce a haul that exceeds that of the Frenchman in 2025-26.

Lessons From Last Year

There are many: using the squad better, getting the most of Florian Wirtz in a settled role, fewer ready excuses such as an inability to defend long throws and set pieces.

Arguably, the biggest lesson Iraola can take from Slot's reign is using the power of Anfield. Liverpool made slow starts too often under the Dutchman, reflected in their conceding first in 14 league games last season.

They lacked attacking impetus, which sapped the energy of the crowd, and the two couldn't thrive off each other. “For me,” says Iraola, “football is about emotions – about passion.” Those inside Anfield would agree.

Most Likely To...

Be involved in a 5-4 thriller. Think Klopp's first campaign, when the German's glasses were lost in the celebrations at Norwich. Iraola's first year could be as entertaining.

Least Likely To...

Shut up shop defending set pieces. Liverpool (20) and Bournemouth (18) had the worst record for goals against from dead-ball situations in the Premier League last season.

View From The Stands

Words by: JACK LUSBY @LusbyJack

Last season was deeply overshadowed by an unbelievable tragedy. Diogo Jota's death had a lasting impact on not only his team-mates, but the coach and his staff.

The big talking point is the decision to sack Arne Slot. Even with the serious mitigating factors, it was necessary – his decline had begun with the side's shocking display in the 2025 Carabao Cup Final.

This season will be different because Andoni Iraola has breathed new life into the support.

I won't be happy unless proper, attacking football returns to Anfield. You'd be surprised how many struggled to sit through Liverpool games last year.

Our key player will be Virgil van Dijk. World class. Look out for 19-year-old centre-back Giovanni Leoni. After nine months out, it's easy to forget his immense talent. He tore his ACL on debut and was still man of the match.

Fans think our owners are OK. FSG get plenty wrong but they usually rectify it eventually.

The departing player I'm saddest about is Andy Robertson or Mo Salah. Both should still be at the club – and would be, had things changed sooner.

A social media account to follow is the academy (@LFCAcademyX). There's a wealth of talent coming through or being signed.

Our biggest grudge match will be against Arsenal. They're the most unlikeable champions in a long, long time. Those games will be attacking football vs anti-football.

We'll finish 3rd.

Fixtures

AUGUST

23 Newcastle (A)

29 Nott'm Forest (H)

SEPTEMBER

5 Ipswich (A)

12 Fulham (H)

19 Bournemouth (A)

OCTOBER

10 Man City (H)

17 Brentford (A)

24 Brighton (H)

31 Arsenal (H)

NOVEMBER

7 Crystal Palace (A)

21 Man United (H)

28 Everton (A)

DECEMBER

2 Sunderland (H)

5 Chelsea (A)

12 Leeds (H)

19 Tottenham (H)

26 Hull City (A)

30 Aston Villa (A)

JANUARY

2 Coventry (H)

6 Sunderland (A)

16 Crystal Palace (H)

23 Man United (A)

30 Everton (H)

FEBRUARY

6 Arsenal (A)

10 Coventry (A)

20 Hull City (H)

27 Tottenham (A)

MARCH

3 Aston Villa (H)

13 Ipswich (H)

20 Fulham (A)

APRIL

10 Newcastle (H)

17 Nott'm Forest (A)

24 Leeds (A)

MAY

1 Chelsea (H)

8 Man City (A)

15 Brentford (H)

23 Brighton (A)

30 Bournemouth (H)

Title Odds

Liverpool to win the Premier League title odds: 11/2

FFT Verdict

FourFourTwo verdict: Liverpool to finish 3rd.

Life without Salah could benefit the collective, if handled correctly. Iraola's methods suit most of the Reds' squad, fitness depending, although bungeeing back to the title is likely too much to ask.

This feature was written in June as part of FourFourTwo magazine's legendary Season Preview issue which can be ordered here.

Championship title winners with room to spare, Coventry City are back in the Premier League after a quarter of a century away.

Frank Lampard's leadership attracted the spotlight, as the former England midfielder steered his team through an immediate response to defeat in the 2024-25 play-offs.

While his first full season at the helm wasn't always plain sailing, the good ship Cov was never in choppy waters for long. Coventry are a club on a high, with a full stadium that feels like home – because it finally is.

Coventry City are back, but will they survive the drop? Coventry 2026-27 season preview

Even so, they will have to be a different outfit this season. The team that took them into the top flight didn't have the depth of quality needed to keep them there.

Loath as many City fans would be to acknowledge it, Sunderland showed the way to a world beyond a relegation battle, but there's no debate over Lampard's first target in 2026-27.

That isn't the same as a dearth of long-term ambition. It's been a long 25 years for the supporters, who experienced exile (when Coventry had to play their home games in Northampton and Birmingham) and were watching the club in League Two less than a decade ago.

A lot of credit goes to Lampard's predecessor, Mark Robins, for a revival that's been a long road for those who walked it. The Sky Blues have work to do. But after everything they've been through, they'll attack it with the grit and humour that rebuilt a city.

The Coach

Replacing Robins with Frank Lampard in November 2024 stunned Cov fans and outsiders alike, but chairman Doug King never wavered. By knuckling down and ultimately winning promotion, Lampard has forged an unlikely but formidable bond with the Sky Blues support.

Key Player

At 25, Jack Rudoni has the star quality and age profile to grow into the Premier League, even if he wasn't at the forefront of last term's team effort, which had several top performers. The Lampard-esque attacking midfielder has the ability, focus and drive to shine at this level.

Last Season's Results

CHAMPIONSHIP: Winners

FA CUP: Third Round

LEAGUE CUP: Second Round

Top Scorer

Haji Wright bagged 18 in all competitions for Coventry City last season, en-route to their Championship victory.

Lessons From Last Year

Remember that form is temporary, class is permanent. Coventry were dominant champions in the end but wobbled in the middle of the season.

Just as they dropped off the top of the Championship table, though, they hauled themselves up and clear again.

That resilient inner confidence could be the difference between getting a handle on the Premier League and struggling to get to grips with it.

Most Likely To...

Have their manager linked with every vacant position. This will be Lampard's fourth spell managing in the Premier League, but the way he confidently took the Sky Blues into it has made clubs take note. Don't be surprised if he decides to stay put this time.

Least Likely To...

Lose their identity. Over a number of years, Coventry fought their way into the Premier League with the help of a steely unity, on and off the pitch. The day they give that up is the day there isn't a blast of The Enemy's We'll Live and Die in These Towns before a home match.

View From The Stands

Words by: LAURENCE KILPATRICK @Thelonelyseason

Last season was pretty weird. The way we took apart the league up until November was mesmeric. Without overhauling the squad, Frank Lampard finished the work Mark Robins started, but with an insouciant swagger.

This season will be different because every crumb of non-defeat must be savoured. Will the fans who abruptly rediscovered their interest in the club still show up when we've got eight points in January and Sean Dyche is in charge?

Our key player will be Jack Rudoni. He's worked his way up the leagues and could now be the difference between 18th and 17th. Glamorous.

The active player I'd love to have back is Sheffield United's Gustavo Hamer. He's a throwback of a maverick, who piles on the pounds until the real business returns. I would welcome him back with open arms, if they could reach that far around him.

Fans think our owner is at the end of his redemption arc.

Our biggest grudge match will be against Aston Villa. We haven't played them since they sent us down in 2001. We hate them; they probably don't remember us.

The ground I'm least looking forward to visiting is one of the silly tiny ones, like Ipswich or Bournemouth, where it's impossible to get a ticket.

The fans' opinion of the gaffer is that he's a great PR man – and, crucially, not a stubborn ideologue.

We'll finish 7th. If a pub side like Sunderland can…

Fixtures

AUGUST

21 Arsenal (A)

29 Hull City (H)

SEPTEMBER

5 Man City (A)

12 Brighton (H)

19 Nott'm Forest (A)

OCTOBER

10 Newcastle (H)

17 Tottenham (A)

24 Fulham (H)

31 Sunderland (H)

NOVEMBER

7 Everton (A)

21 Crystal Palace (H)

28 Leeds (A)

DECEMBER

2 Ipswich (H)

5 Man United (A)

12 Aston Villa (H)

19 Bournemouth (A)

26 Chelsea (H)

30 Brentford (H)

JANUARY

2 Liverpool (A)

6 Ipswich (A)

16 Everton (H)

23 Sunderland (A)

30 Leeds (H)

FEBRUARY

6 Crystal Palace (A)

10 Liverpool (H)

20 Brentford (A)

27 Bournemouth (H)

MARCH

3 Chelsea (A)

13 Man City (H)

20 Brighton (A)

APRIL

10 Arsenal (H)

17 Hull City (A)

24 Aston Villa (A)

MAY

1 Man United (H)

8 Newcastle (A)

15 Tottenham (H)

23 Fulham (A)

30 Nott'm Forest (H)

Title Odds

Coventry City to win the Premier League title odds: 500/1

FFT Verdict

FourFourTwo verdict: Coventry City to finish 16th.

Tactically flexible and able to score in myriad ways, from set pieces to five players hitting double figures last term, Cov are well equipped to stay up – or better, if they can sign or replace loan ace Carl Rushworth.

This feature was written in June as part of FourFourTwo magazine's legendary Season Preview issue which can be ordered here.

Bournemouth face a challenge that few would have imagined a decade ago: balancing the demands of the Premier League with a first European campaign. It's another landmark in their remarkable rise, but sustaining this progress will be even harder.

That's especially true as Andoni Iraola has left, marking the end of the club's most successful chapter yet. Bournemouth, however, are accustomed to managing change.

The appointment of Marco Rose reflects a club that plans ahead, and there is confidence that the foundations built in recent years can withstand another transition.

Bournemouth prepare for their busiest season yet, without the guidance of the man who took them there - 2026-27 season preview

The biggest question concerns depth. Thursday-night football will place fresh demands on a squad that has already lost key players, making recruitment and rotation crucial decisions.

Bournemouth's first-choice XI has shown that it can compete with anyone; how this squad manages to cope with the additional workload could define their campaign.

Ambitions continue to grow on and off the pitch, including plans to expand the Vitality Stadium and increase capacity beyond its current 12,000.

Bournemouth are still one of the Premier League's smallest clubs by most traditional measures, yet the mood around Dorset is one of optimism.

The target is no longer to merely establish themselves in the top flight, but to prove they belong among its most progressive clubs.

The Coach

Iraola is a tough act to follow, but Marco Rose arrives with Champions League pedigree from Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig, plus a reputation for developing elite young talent. He's a good tactical fit, too. Can he preserve the Cherries' upward trajectory?

Key Player

Alex Scott, 22, has long been viewed as a future England international, and interest from elsewhere has been growing in recent months. If he stays and Rose can unlock his potential in the final third, the midfielder will have all of the tools to be Bournemouth's driving force.

Last Season's Results

PREMIER LEAGUE: 6th

FA CUP: Third Round

LEAGUE CUP: Second Round

Top Scorer

Eli Junior Kroupi bagged 13 goals in all competitions for Bournemouth last season.

The Cherries will be without their star bagsman for three to four months, after suffering a foot injury in pre-season.

Lessons From Last Year

Fast finishes can't always erase slow starts. Once Iraola's pressing game clicked, Bournemouth could trouble anyone, but their early inconsistency left them chasing – though that was hardly surprising, given the turnover of players last summer.

If the Cherries can begin 2026-27 with the same intensity and clarity shown in the spring, European qualification becomes a more realistic target. Rose's early appointment should help.

Most Likely To...

Turn your corner into their counter. Bournemouth are one of the most aggressive transition teams in the league, able to transform a routine interception into a clear chance in seconds. That won't change under Rose, who has spent most of his coaching career in the high-press, high-energy Red Bull setup – first in Salzburg, later at Leipzig.

Least Likely To...

Panic when someone leaves for a bigger club. Losing key figures has become part of life for the Cherries, and they have set the benchmark in succession planning.

View From The Stands

Words by: SAM DAVIS - @afcbpodcast

Last season was bizarre but brilliant – a pulsating start, a dreadful run, then half a season unbeaten.

The big talking point is our managerial switch. Andoni Iraola deciding to leave is a big loss, but his replacement, Marco Rose, has good pedigree.

Our key player will be Alex Scott. The Guernsey Grealish has it all.

The active player I'd love to have back is Antoine Semenyo – although we haven't actually lost a league game since he left for Man City in January.

Look out for James Hill. For a £1m signing from Fleetwood Town, the boy has bags of potential.

The departing player I'm saddest about is Marcos Senesi. He was superb.

Fans think our owner is delivering in every single department: new training ground, ongoing stadium redevelopment, and now Europe within four years after promising it in five.

The one change I'd make at our club would be a tangible matchday ticket. You can't stick a QR code in your scrapbook.

A social media account to follow is Alexander Smith (@AlexSmithEcho). I've never seen a sports writer work so hard.

The pantomime villain will be Richard Keys. Not so long ago, he said, “There is no ‘next level' for Bournemouth – this is it.” We'll reminisce on that soundbite over a beer in some European square.

We'll finish 13th, as we manage Europe. Playing more, increasingly intense games, against better opponents, the squad will be tested more than ever.

Fixtures

AUGUST

23 Man City (A)

29 Everton (H)

SEPTEMBER

5 Newcastle (A)

12 Brentford (H)

19 Liverpool (H)

OCTOBER

10 Chelsea (A)

17 Sunderland (H)

24 Man United (A)

31 Leeds (H)

NOVEMBER

7 Ipswich (A)

21 Nott'm Forest (H)

28 Fulham (A)

DECEMBER

2 Brighton (H)

5 Hull City (H)

12 Arsenal (A)

19 Coventry (H)

26 Tottenham (A)

30 Crystal Palace (A)

JANUARY

2 Aston Villa (H)

6 Brighton (A)

16 Ipswich (H)

23 Nott'm Forest (A)

30 Fulham (H)

FEBRUARY

6 Leeds (A)

10 Aston Villa (A)

20 Crystal Palace (H)

27 Coventry (A)

MARCH

3 Tottenham (H)

13 Newcastle (H)

20 Brentford (A)

APRIL

10 Man City (H)

17 Everton (A)

24 Arsenal (H)

MAY

1 Hull City (A)

8 Man United (H)

15 Sunderland (A)

23 Chelsea (H)

30 Liverpool (A)

Title Odds

Bournemouth to win the 2026/27 Premier League title odds: 300/1

FFT Verdict

FourFourTwo verdict: Bournemouth to finish 11th.

For two years, Bournemouth have performed like a top-six side while losing great players. Can they do it after losing a great manager? Rose should slot in well, but the Europa League will limit his training time.

This feature was written in June as part of FourFourTwo magazine's legendary Season Preview issue which can be ordered here.

I’ll start this week by speaking about Vinicius Junior’s links to Arsenal. It would be a massive statement to bring him to the club, and I know they need to strengthen in that area after losing Leandro Trossard.

But I don’t think he will leave Real Madrid, and I expect him to sign a new contract. It’s been reported that he wants something like £400,000 a week, and I don't think Arsenal are going to be able to pay that.

Clinton was speaking on behalf of Freebets.com home to the best betting sites.

'Arsenal won't land Vini Jr.'

There’s also a lot of talk about Rodri joining Real Madrid, but Manchester City need to fight tooth and nail to keep him.

I was reading something which said that the Real Madrid president Florentino Perez needed to make that final decision whether to pursue a deal, but I'm surprised he hasn't said that Rodri is our number one target, because he's the best holding midfielder in the world at the moment.

He wasn’t always at his best after coming back from injury at Man City last season, but Pep Guardiola said that you'll see the best of Rodri at the World Cup. And what did we see? We saw the best player at the World Cup. Rodri was outstanding.

I know he's got a back issue and needs to recuperate after his operation, but I'm sure Man City will be doing all they can to keep him and ensure he signs a new contract. There’s no question that it would be an incredible signing for Real Madrid, but I want to see the best players in the Premier League, so I'd love Rodri to stay at Man City.

Moving on to Chelsea, and I can understand the decisions to sign both Danny Welbeck and Jordan Henderson. Chelsea's motto has always been to sign younger players, but that didn't work for them last season.

There were too many younger players that didn't have enough experience to manage the group.

That's why I think they tried to sign Granit Xhaka earlier in the window, and Xabi Alonso clearly wants to bring a wiser head into the squad.

Looking at Welbeck, he was one of the top scorers in the Premier League last season and would be a good addition. They've got the likes of Joao Pedro, and we don't know what's happening with Nicholas Jackson or Liam Delap, but at least one of them will probably move on.

Henderson would also provide more leadership in that Chelsea squad, and I feel they will have a right go at the Premier League next season with no European football to play. We saw that with Manchester United last season.

Moving on to Liverpool, and there’s plenty of talk that Bradley Barcola could join for more than €100 million. He’s a good player, but it’s a lot of money, and I feel like he has to improve technically. But one thing he's got, is pace to burn and he's a threat. You saw that at the World Cup for France and last season at Paris Saint-Germain.

Liverpool need to bring in a winger, not to replace Mohamed Salah, because no one can replace Mo Salah and I don't think anyone will get his numbers. But Barcola is at a good age, he's got pace, and he'd be going to a big football club with a top manager in Andoni Iraola. He would be a decent signing.

They have some defensive issues to address as well. I saw that Micky van de Ven has been linked with Liverpool, and that would make good sense to go and sign him. He regularly plays with Virgil van Dijk for the Netherlands, and there’s a brilliant understanding between the two of them. Although, I think Tottenham Hotspur will keep him now, as Cristian Romero looks as though he’ll leave this summer.

There have also been three big appointments at international level, with Germany, France and Italy announcing new managers. Jürgen Klopp is the perfect manager to take charge of Germany, who will be trying to turn their fortunes around after a very disappointing World Cup. I would have loved to have seen him back in club football, but that wasn't going to happen unless he came back to Liverpool

As for Zinedine Zidane, he said this was the job he always wanted. He's not worked for a while and had other job offers, but held out for this one. He brings that aura when he walks into a dressing room, because people respect him after his incredible career, he's proven himself as a brilliant manager too.

There’s plenty of talent at his disposal in that France squad. I know they didn't turn up in the semi-final against Spain, but it's still a top country with top players. I think both Klopp and Zidane will improve their respective nations massively. The Euros in two years’ time will be very interesting!

As for Roberto Mancini, he faces a massive rebuilding job with Italy. I don't understand how they've not qualified for a World Cup for so long. They got knocked out in the play-offs before this year’s finals, but there was no excuse for that, considering the players at their disposal. I think it’s a good call to bring back Mancini though, and hopefully they can start regularly qualifying for major tournaments again.

I’ll finish this week by talking about the world’s oldest professional footballer, Kazuyoshi Miura, who scored his first goal in almost four years last weekend. To still be playing at 59 is unbelievable. I go to the gym at my age and I'm knackered afterwards! I've been for two days and my body is in tatters, I feel like I can't walk, and he's still playing at 59. It's a testament to keeping yourself in good shape and loving the game.

But at 59, I don't even think I'll be walking that straight, let alone running around a football pitch for 90 minutes. I hope he continues playing beyond the age of 60. What a career he's had, and huge congratulations to him.

Newcastle are three weeks out from the new season and set to welcome Matthias Jaissle to the club as Eddie Howe's replacement.

Howe is leaving the Magpies after almost five years at the helm, a period in which he has led the team into the Champions League twice and lifted a trophy for the first time since 1969.

The much-loved head coach is calling time on his Newcastle stint, months after the first knockings of discontent.

Eddie Howe calls time on Newcastle spell

In truth, the writing was on the wall long before the 2025/26 season had begun. Howe had become de facto sporting director and chief spokesperson during the long absence in which Newcastle had neither the former or a chief executive after Darren Eales had stepped down due to health reasons.

Alexander Isak's protracted exit last summer and the trolley dash that ensued to replace him suggested there were key elements and figures at St James' Park that were far from aligned.

Confirmation of a 12th place finish following a long and arduous season should have been the time Howe walked away, but for whatever reason, he remained throughout this summer.

FourFourTwo understands Howe was ready to walk after Newcastle's 3-2 defeat by Brentford back in February. The Toon Army had surrendered an early lead, which had become a theme throughout 2025/26, before conceding a late Dango Ouattara winner.

Howe was persuaded to stay on but all was not well. Before long, rumours about the futures of key players Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes began to emerge in the media, from credible sources no less. Two have already left this summer, with a third highly likely to be on his way.

Within the corridors at Newcastle's Benton training base, there has been talk that Howe hasn't been the same since suffering with a bout of pneumonia. He was hospitalised in April 2025, spending four nights under the watchful eye of doctors and missed three Newcastle matches.

Re-discovering the same vigour which led Newcastle to two memorable Champions League campaigns and a Carabao Cup triumph, it would appear to some, proved too great a task.

This summer, Newcastle have been proactive in the transfer market, with signings spearheaded by new sporting director Ross Wilson.

The experienced football executive has a track record when it comes to unearthing and capturing hidden gems. Newcastle's business has reflected that, although at this stage, many of the additions still have plenty to prove in the game, never mind the unforgiving nature of English football which they are about to enter.

They have not been what one might call 'Howe signings', and that has probably played a part in his decision to leave.

Ewen Jaouen, Aladji Bamba, Sean Steur and Bazoumana Toure have arrived for a combined £111 million, the club reinvesting the money recouped from Tonali and Gordon's sales. Plainly, the new faces are not at the level of those they are replacing in the Newcastle squad just yet.

The true reasoning behind Howe's exit will remain unknown, until a time in which he discusses the departure but there are myriad factors. Firstly, there is an ownership group who have spent the past 18 months appearing somewhat disengaged, misalignment between the coaching side and executive apparatus at St James' Park, as well as Howe seemingly having to relinquish his role in player recruitment this summer, following a disastrous window this time last year.

Howe earned the right to walk away on his terms, and although it is a sad day for Newcastle supporters, many will take the view that it is a necessary step - if only the timing was a little better.

He will remain a legend in the eyes of Toon fans for what he has achieved with the club, lifting the team from relegation certainties in 2021/22 to regular contenders for Champions League football and finally ending the trophy drought.

Where Newcastle go from here is anyone's guess, except for the identity of the man filling the biggest shoes on Tyneside. German coach Matthias Jaissle, schooled under the Red Bull umbrella and has spent the past three seasons in Saudi Arabia, looks to be the man taking to the dugout. Make your own assumptions about that appointment.

The club's hierarchy have been able to line up a replacement, because they know Howe reached his limit some months ago. On the surface, what finally convinced the Newcastle boss to walk away appears to be a 4-1 pre-season friendly defeat to Championship side Bristol City, but this was far from the decisive blow.

Talismanic attacker Iliman Ndiaye is reportedly closing in on a move to Saudi Pro League outfit Al Hilal.

According to transfer insider Pete O'Rourke, the Senegalese international is expected to finalise a lucrative departure this summer, stripping the Toffees of one of their main goal threats.

While losing Ndiaye depletes Everton’s firepower up front, the reality of the squad’s defensive depth - or lack, thereof - is arguably even more alarming. As things stand, Everton possess just three senior central defenders in their entire squad.

Everton in transfer trouble ahead of new season

Tellingly, two of those options are James Tarkowski and Michael Keane, both now 33 years old, who formed part of Burnley’s central defensive unit a decade ago.

During Burnley's 2016/17 Premier League campaign, Ben Mee was Sean Dyche’s preferred choice alongside Keane, although Tarkowski and Keane did play together 20 times over the course of the season.

Relying on that exact pairing ten years later highlights a stark lack of squad evolution and could leave Everton exposed at the back in 2026/27.

Compounding the growing uncertainty at Goodison Park is speculation surrounding manager David Moyes.

The veteran Scot has been linked with taking the vacant Scotland national team job following Steve Clarke's recent departure following a disappointing World Cup exit.

Given where Moyes stands in his managerial career, taking charge of his national team at this present juncture is widely regarded as his final opportunity to undertake the role.

Should the Scottish FA make a formal approach, Everton could find themselves searching for a new manager at the worst possible time.

With just over three weeks remaining before the Premier League season gets underway, the pressure on Everton’s transfer negotiators has reached the point where fans are beginning to question the strategy underpinning their summer business.

The club cannot afford to head into the opening weekend relying on an aged defensive duo, little central depth, and their star forward sold abroad.

The Toffees have added Merlin Rohl and Tyrique George on permanent deals, as well as securing Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough, but there is work still to be done. Everton kick off their Premier League campaign at home to Crystal Palace on Saturday, August 22.

The arrival of 20-year-old French midfielder Aladji Bamba from AS Monaco in a £34 million deal provides Eddie Howe with a gifted technician possessing certain similarities to Newcastle’s departing talisman.

At 20 years-old with limited senior experience, Bamba is far from the finished article and almost certainly won't have the same impact as Newcastle's skipper just yet - but the Toon Army are almost exclusively paying for potential.

The midfielder rose rapidly through AS Monaco’s academy ranks, reaching a point where he has ultimately commanded the significant fee Newcastle have paid.

Is Aladji Bamba Newcastle's Bruno Guimaraes replacement?

According to Transfermarkt, Bamba had a standout breakthrough campaign in 2025/26, making 25 senior appearances across Ligue 1, the UEFA Champions League, and domestic cup competitions.

His composure and press resistance earned him a nomination for the 2026 European Golden Boy award before Newcastle secured his signature on a five-year contract.

Bamba operates mainly as a deep-lying midfielder, and his greatest strength lies in the vision he possesses when facing stubborn, compact opponents.

In an interview with Sky Sports, a former coach highlighted this precise quality when evaluating his skillset.

"His main attribute is playing against a low block, those tiny little passes to break down a low defence," Monaco set-piece coach Abel Lorincz said.

This description mirrors the one of Bruno Guimaraes' defining features at St. James' Park. Guimaraes has excelled at taking up positions on the right-hand side of the edge of the penalty box, slipping subtle, eye-of-the-needle passes through tight defensive lines into the path of runners like Miguel Almiron and Jacob Murphy.

Bamba’s ability to turn under pressure, roll the ball in tight spaces, and weight precise passes into the penalty area suggests he can potentially grow to replicate that creative outlet in the Premier League one day.

Bamba’s rapid ascent has seen him go from footballing obscurity with local side Blois to the Premier League in five short years. After logging 22 appearances and 4 goals for Monaco’s U19 side in 2023/24, he quickly adapted to senior football, featuring in 25 first-team matches last season, while boasting very high pass completion rates.

With Arsenal actively in talks for Guimaraes, losing the Brazilian remains a significant blow for Newcastle.

However, in Bamba, the Magpies have acquired a high-upside midfielder whose technical profile on the surface appears tailor-made to fill at least some of the void.

When Liam Delap made his high-profile move to Stamford Bridge last summer, it felt like the logical next step for one of English football’s most promising young attackers.

Yet, just a short time later, the striker finds himself at a career crossroads.

Reports now suggest Chelsea regard him as expendable this summer - a reality that, rather than signalling a disaster, might just prove to be the best thing that happens to his career.

Liam Delap MUST leave Chelsea for the good of his career

Delap’s talent has never been in doubt having tortured defences at youth level with Manchester City and England Under-21s. The son of former Republic of Ireland international Rory, Liam bullied opposition centre-halves with his in-your-face centre forward style.

This attitude became the cornerstone of his debut top-flight campaign with Ipswich Town in which he scored a dozen times for the relegated Tractor Boys.

A year later, largely due to limited opportunities, Delap has added just one more goal to his Premier League tally whilst on Chelsea's books. But the talent remains.

His rare combination of physical power, relentless running, and clinical finishing made him one of the most complete young centre-forwards in the country. That doesn't simply vanish in the space of 12 months.

Newcastle United were in talks to sign the 23-year-old from Ipswich last summer, with head coach Eddie Howe even presenting to the striker a vision of how he would play as the Magpies' No. 9.

The lure of Stamford Bridge, though, proved too much, as it has done for so many young players who struggle to make the grade at this stage of their career, through little fault of their own.

Delap is far from the first promising player to arrive in West London only to wrestle with heightened expectation, reduced game-time and squad bloat.

Under new head coach Xabi Alonso, it is difficult to see the former England youth international being given the necessary opportunity to turn his Blues fortunes around.

He is behind Joao Pedro in the pecking order, whilst the summer arrival of Emmanuel Emegha from Strasbourg adds further competition.

Meanwhile, reports that veteran Danny Welbeck could also be coming through the door means Delap’s path to regular first-team football remains obstructed.

In the volatile environment that is modern day Chelsea, defined by managerial churn and bloated squads, young players are easily swallowed up.

If Delap does move on this transfer window, his brief spell at Chelsea should not be framed as a personal failure or a career misstep. It is simply another chapter in a familiar story: Stamford Bridge remains a difficult environment for young players needing patient development, even if the sheer magnitude of the club makes it an opportunity impossible to turn down.

What Delap needs now is a move to an established, ambitious mid-level Premier League club. Joining a side unburdened by the threat of relegation, one realistically capable of pushing for European qualification, would provide the ideal stage.

Somewhere he is guaranteed to be the focal point of the attack rather than a bench option is paramount for his next move.

A broader motivation for leaving the Bridge extends all the way to the national team.

England face an inevitable long-term challenge: finding a successor to Harry Kane as the country’s starting No. 9 when the captain eventually steps down from international duty.

Right now, genuine candidates with the complete physical and technical profile required to lead England's line are scarce.

Delap possesses most attributes needed to be a true contender for the Three Lions' shirt, but potential means little without consistent Premier League minutes.

Seeking a fresh start where he can be the main man could help Delap resurrect his club prospects but also bring him into the conversation as the future of England’s attack.

While Stamford Bridge has sanctioned another eye-watering mega-deal, Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta have quietly gone about their business with modern squad building in mind.

Arsenal’s acquisition of Greek international winger Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge for £34m represents great value, particularly when factoring in Leandro Trossard’s exit for £15m.

In net terms, the Gunners have refreshed their attacking options for just £19m.

Arsenal show Chelsea how it's done in the transfer market

Beyond the financials, the age gap is significant. Trading 31-year-old Trossard for a 24-year-old in Tzolis lowers the squad's age profile while injecting fresh hunger - and a point to prove after Tzolis' previous unsuccessful foray into English football.

The Greek international's track record in recent seasons is formidable. At Fortuna Dusseldorf during the 2023/24 season, he netted 22 goals and added seven assists in 30 appearances in 2. Bundesliga.

Securing a move to Club Brugge in Belgium on the back of his 2. Bundesliga exploits, Tzolis bagged 43 goals and registered 20 assists in 108 appearances across all competitions, including 33 goals in 74 Belgian Pro League matches.

The expectation is that Tzolis will not immediately replicate his prolific Belgian numbers. The jump in quality from the Pro League to the Premier League requires patience, but as a squad option learning under Arteta, his upside is massive compared to his modest net outlay.

In stark contrast, Chelsea have shelled out £117m to sign Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa. Unlike Tzolis, the 23-year-old Rogers arrives at Stamford Bridge under pressure to deliver straight away due to his elevated price tag and established Premier League profile.

The deal highlights Chelsea’s tendency to spend freely under BlueCo ownership without a clear structural plan. Stamford Bridge is already overcrowded on the flanks with Pedro Neto, Jamie Gittens and now Rogers all competing for minutes.

From an outside perspective at least, adding another £100m-plus asset into a bloated attacking unit underscores a continued lack of squad planning discipline.

Chelsea’s recent history is littered with expensive transfer mis-steps, none more illustrative than Mykhaylo Mudryk. Signed for £88m in 2023, the Ukrainian winger has proven to be a considerable drain on club resources. To make matters worse, Mudryk remains unavailable after testing positive for the banned substance meldonium, leaving Chelsea paying significant wages for a player frozen out of competitive football.

To clear space for Rogers, Chelsea sanctioned a season-long loan sending Alejandro Garnacho to Aston Villa. This comes less than a year after buying the Argentine from Manchester United for £40m - a transfer which raised eyebrows at the time. While allowing Garnacho's exit removes an unneeded wage burden from Xabi Alonso’s squad, doing so on a loan basis is merely a temporary fix rather than a permanent financial solution.

In securing a winger with Tzolis' track record for a net outlay of just £19m, Arsenal have demonstrated foresight, patience, and financial control. Chelsea, meanwhile, have dropped £117m on Morgan Rogers to address a position they could do with supplementing but are hardly short of options in.

Rogers could feasibly win the PFA Player of the Year next season; he is, after all, supremely talented. But, questions will continue to be asked of Chelsea if he does not hit the ground running, because this is a club where, more often than not, there appears a semi-permanent state of dressing room unease, squad bloat and ultimately unrest.

Leeds United have moved a step closer to landing the signing of German international midfielder Julian Brandt.

The Whites are keen to make 30-year-old former Borussia Dortmund midfielder Julian Brandt their latest signing this summer.

The club have already added Tarik Muharemovic and Harry Wilson from Sassuolo and Fulham, respectively, but are eyeing the ambitious capture of 48-cap international Brandt, too.

Julian Brandt to Leeds United latest

Dortmund bid farewell to Brandt earlier this summer after seven years with the club, having previously broken through at fellow Bundesliga outfit Bayer Leverkusen.

He made 307 appearances for Dortmund, scoring 57 times and registering 70 assists across all competitions.

Leeds are thought to be front-runners for the midfielder's signature who is reportedly open to the idea of playing in the Premier League at this stage of his career.

Brandt's entire club career has taken place within Germany, aside from appearances for the national team and European competition, in which he is vastly experienced with just shy of 100 outings in the Champions League and Europa League.

Dutch giants Ajax have also been linked with a move for Brandt this summer, along with a host of other top European clubs, all of whom could offer continental football in some capacity.

Leeds, on the other hand, have the trump card of Premier League football, which remains the division in which most players seek to play, for competitive and financial reasons.

Last summer, Leeds persuaded Dominic Calvert-Lewin to turn down offers from clubs with European football in order to join up with Daniel Farke at Elland Road. Brandt may now follow suit after the latest transfer development.

Ajax appear to have agreed to spend a large portion of their transfer budget on a centre-forward, reducing their ability to be as competitive in contract talks with Brandt.

Wolverhampton Wanderers' Tolu Arokodare is reportedly on the verge of joining the Amsterdam club after a dressing room fallout at Molineux and could eventually move for €22 million, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The deal is supposedly a loan with an option to buy, meaning Ajax may still be able to afford Brandt this summer. However, their spending power would be diminished when it comes to contract negotiations due to full coverage of Arokodare's Wolves salary.

Should Brandt complete a move to Elland Road, he would join fellow German internationals Lukas Nmecha and Anton Stach, along with manager Farke and his majority-German backroom staff.

I’ll start this week by reflecting on the World Cup final last weekend, and I would say that Spain were deserving winners. They were the best team, even though they didn't start the tournament brilliantly against Cape Verde.

But as I said many times, it's not about how you start, it's how you finish. And they were outstanding. In the final itself, they tried to play football the right way and were the ones on the front foot trying to cause problems. Argentina were trying to make the game scrappier and get in people’s faces.

They had the same approach against England in the semi-finals, and were hoping for a bit of magic from Lionel Messi. But as soon as Enzo Fernández got that second yellow card, you knew Spain were going to win.

Clinton was speaking on behalf of Freebets.com home to the best betting sites.

Would somebody please think of the children!

The post-match scenes were very ugly too, and I feel that Leandro Paredes was one of the worst offenders. He tries to get into people’s heads, and I saw the way he was trying to fight young Gavi at the end of the final.

I understand that you’re disappointed after losing the game, but you don’t need to resort to violence. Kids are watching it, and they're thinking, “Is that the right way? When we lose matches, do we then start fighting?”

So I think Paredes was the main instigator. It didn't look good the way they dealt with it. But Spain were class in the way they handled the situation.

When reflecting on the tournament as a whole, I’d have to say that the 48-team tournament was a brilliant success. Countries like Cape Verde got their recognition, and you only have to look at their goalkeeper Vozinha, who’s now a superstar with millions of followers on Instagram! It puts you in the shop window. I also look at the centre-back, Roberto Lopes, who was born in Ireland and plays for Shamrock Rovers.

Surely some Championship clubs are looking at him, because I thought he was outstanding for Cape Verde. You look at Norway’s run to the quarter-finals, and Curaçao getting their first-ever World Cup point as examples of how the 48-team tournament has delivered.

However, I have to say a few words about the half-time show. I love the performers, but it needed more energy. I was thinking, ‘get back to the football.’ Or you might as well let me go and perform at half-time, and I would have kept the crowd going!

It was started off well with Madonna, Ronaldinho and Ronaldo, while Shakira and Burna Boy were brilliant. But it all turned really flat when Justin Bieber came on and brought the whole atmosphere down.

There’s now talk about whether the World Cup will be expanded to 64 teams. I think that’s maybe too many, and 48 is a perfect number for the tournament. It gives countries that you don't know a lot about in football terms a chance to go and showcase their ability. Their families and the people who live in their countries are proud of them. If you go to 64 teams, it will make the tournament too long.

Focus will now shift back to club football, and there have been some huge signings in the Premier League. I’ll start with Morgan Rogers’ £117 million move from Aston Villa to Chelsea. Obviously it’s a huge sum of money, but the reason he's gone for that much is because Elliot Anderson went to Manchester City for £116 million.

Rogers is a top player. I feel like him and Cole Palmer both like to play in the number ten role so it'd be interesting to see where Xabi Alonso is going to fit them both into the team. But I think it's a very good signing. With that in mind, some people have said they didn’t need to sign him. Although when someone like Rogers comes into your squad, it can only improve the team. I thought he was going to go to Arsenal, but I don't think they were willing to pay that sort of money for him.

Another player who could be heading to Stamford Bridge this summer is Alex Scott. Bournemouth turned down a £64 million bid for him, which I was surprised about, considering he’s not signing a new contract there. I reckon an offer in the region of £70-75 million would get a deal done. And if I’m Steve Parrish at Crystal Palace and teams want Adam Wharton, I’d be thinking “He’s going to go for just as much, if not more than Alex Scott.”

Chelsea could also bring in John Stones, which is a no-brainer in my opinion. They need experience at the back, and a partnership of him and Maxence Lacroix would be brilliant. From a Palace perspective, I hope Lacroix doesn't go, but Stones is definitely a good fit for Chelsea.

It has certainly been a mad window overall, but Manchester United have made a very shrewd signing by bringing in Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa. He was outstanding last season, and Villa fans were talking about how much they missed him when he got injured. I think it’s a brilliant piece of business, because you’re talking about a player who’s been there and done it. This transfer window has certainly delivered so far, and rest of the summer will certainly be very interesting.

This was more than a victory for Luis de la Fuente and his wonderful players like Lamine Yamal, the outstanding sub Nico Williams, and Ferran Torres, who struck a fractious final’s decisive blow. This was a victory for football.

This was a victory for those who believe the game should be about expression, not aggression. Argentina’s street fighters were put to the sword by the matadors of Spain. “Ole, ole,” chanted their fans as the game closed with a sweeping passing move and never has it sounded more fitting.

Spain kept playing the way they’ve traditionally done, passing and moving, caressing the ball, treating it as a friend. By contrast, Argentina came to destroy and few, beyond their immense support here in New Jersey, eight miles from Sinatra’s birth-place, will mourn their loss.

'Argentina wasted the regal presence of Lionel Messi'

The world champions were an embarrassment at times. Enzo Fernandez was sent off for dissent and a foul and he still disputed it. Even after the final whistle, as tempers spilled over, Leandro Paredes was still picking fights. What a waste of the regal presence of such a maestro as Lionel Messi.

He had little service, few touches, no real opportunity to impose those sublime skills. It was a shame that his wonderful World Cup should end in such circumstances, but it was his team-mates’ fault. They came to fight, not play.

Spain’s many supporters railed against the Slovenian referee, Slavko Vincic, for not clamping down on Argentina’s very obvious spoiling tactics. They especially blamed the FIFA president, Gianni Infantino, for a perceived favouring of superstars. “Infantino – you’re not a Christian” was one of the more printable chants. From a parochial perspective, English frustration bit deeper at the second-half tactics and substitutions that invited Argentina to look like Brazil 1970.

Spain, meanwhile, looked like the European champions they are, simply on a world tour. How fitting that amongst the full house at the MetLife were many of Spain’s 2010 champions, the Andres Iniesta generation, who also had to endure some rough-house tactics from their final opponents, the Dutch, in their final in Johannesburg.

Spain will never forget their journey to New Jersey. As the heat rose, so did the prices, shamelessly, ranging from $9,715 to $49,384. Capitalism in real time. Many ticketless Spanish and Argentinians came anyway, dodging the loose checks on the outer rings to get close to the MetLife party. Hundreds held up signs hoping for tickets, even more ambitiously seeking them at face value.

Inside, a truly American spectacle briefly broke out, the Super Soccer Bowl. Tom Cruise delivered some sub-Shakespeare seize-the-day, save-the-world rhetoric. Cruise did well, given that it was almost a mission impossible to compete with the deafening Argentinian choirs. Some of their football left one speechless.

Spain did well surviving some of the uncompromising Argentinian tackles. This is far from a great Argentinian team, beyond the genius of Messi, but they are packed with world champions and tough nuts.

Spain were in a dogfight, but they stayed composed, controlled the game and were thwarted only by the outstanding Emi Martinez in the Argentinian goal. Yamal was a test down the right, worrying Tagliafico. When he did get close, threatening a goal, Martinez saved with his legs. Over on the left, Marc Cucurella was enjoying himself, linking with Dani Olmo, even backheeling the ball past Gonzalo Montiel, who recovered with a magnificent sliding challenge. Cucurella shot wide, then Oyarzabal had his 20-yarder saved by Martinez.

Spain were trying to play football, trying to build from the back. Rodri dropped deep, triggering the press from Julian Alvarez and Alexis Mac Alllister under the watchful gaze of Messi. Mac Allister flew in on Olmo, and was granted clemency by Vincic. The Slovenian was clearly in the mood to let things go, but there’s a fine line between trying to let the game flow and allowing some rough-housing. He eventually drew the line at some more leg-tangling from Lisandro Martinez, who was booked. He also had to withdraw, limping, to be replaced by Nicolas Otamendi.

A show finally broke but it proved the much-anticipated half-time show. Madonna and Shakira strutted their stuff, Ted Lasso gave a pep talk to Justin Bieber, just as President Trump had offered some tactical advice to Thomas Tuchel about Harry Kane and defense. The highpoint of the show was Ronaldo and Ronaldinho flanking Madonna. Where was Rivaldo? Half-time stretched to 27 min 22.15sec, a new FIFA world record. The celebratory merchandising is surely on its way.

Back to the football, back to Spain dodging tackles. Nico Williams came on and soon delivered a cross met by the head of Aymeric Laporte. Martinez clutched the ball rather theatrically. Enzo Fernandez tumbled, but was booked for dissent. The mind rolled back to past finals that took time to come to life, to 2014, USA 94, even Italia 90. It was a hard, hot watch and it got feisty as the game staggered like a punch-drunk boxer through added time. Messi found Laporte shut.

Then Enzo Fernandez, racing in, eyes only on the man, sent Pau Cubarsi into orbit. He walked, eventually, reluctantly, and one wonders whether that will affect his price when Chelsea come to sell him.

Martinez continued to defy Spain, pushing away a Yamal free-kick, then denying Mikel Merino’s header. Giuliano Simeone came on and annoyed people. Paredes took Merino out in mid-air. But then came the moment that saved the game, that saved the World Cup, and what a move and goal it was. Yamal laid the ball back to Pedro Porro who steeped his cross to the far post to Williams. The livewire winger nodded the ball back for Ferran Torres to kill off Argentina and make football lovers celebrate.

Rodri has denied Lionel Messi a second successive Golden Ball, after Spain beat Argentina in the 2026 World Cup Final.

The Golden Ball is often used as a predictor for the Ballon D'or, having gone to Messi and Luka Modric in the last two tournaments.

Messi was expected to receive the award, having bagged eight goals for Argentina, but the Spanish midfielder, and 2025 Ballon D'or winner, has claimed it.

Rodri denies Lionel Messi and claims Golden Ball, after Spain prevail 1-0 against Argentina in the World Cup Final

Messi will instead receive the Silver Ball, to sit at home next to his two previous Golden Ball wins, in 2022 and 2014.

Kylian Mbappe received the Bronze Ball, bagging 10 tournament goals en-route to becoming the highest ever World Cup goalscorer.

Pau Cubarsi, who was the victim of a ridiculous Enzo Fernandez tackle that earned the Argentinian a second yellow card, will take home Young Player of the Tournament.

Unai Simon, who conceded one goal all tournament, the least ever en-route to a World Cup victory by any nation, was awarded the Golden Glove.

Argentina and Messi put up a defensive fight, but were clearly the inferior side in every moment of the game.

They failed to register even a single shot in the 90, played the entirety of extra-time with 10 men, then fell to a Ferran Torres dagger.

That came in the 106th minute, which led to Argentinian pressure for the remainder of the match, including many previously elusive shot attempts, that continuously fell short.

Spain won the World Cup for the first time since 2010, when Uruguayan Diego Forlan was the Golden Ball winner.

Leandro Paredes was sent off after throttling Eric Garcia at the full-time whistle of the 2026 World Cup Final.

Spain prevailed 1-0 against Argentina via a 105th-minute Ferran Torres strike, after playing all of extra-time with 10 men.

Argentina failed to register a single shot attempt in the initial 90 minutes, and were thoroughly outplayed by the victors.

Leandro Paredes throttles Eric Garcia after Argentina lose 1-0 to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final

Paredes became the second Argentinian to be sent off in today's game after Enzo Fernandez committed an absurd challenge on Pau Cubarsi.

The Argentina international grabbed Garcia by the neck after losing the World Cup final, and many others in the Argentina squad joined in with abhorrent antics.

Joe Hart, working as pundit for BBC, described the event as "disgusting" after Lionel Messi's Argentina fell in the final.

Argentina already had the most World Cup Final dismissals in history with Enzo's red card, enduring two others in 1990.

Those three sending-offs were enough to secure the record, but that total has now extended to four.

Hart said: "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."

Paredes' antics were stopped briefly by Lionel Scaloni, before he broke free and shoved yet another Spanish player to the ground.

The Argentinians are no strangers to committing harsh challenges, and escaping punishment, as Ian Wright discussed at half-time.

But Paredes' violence was a different level, leading ITV pundits to also condemn his actions, and much of the Argentina squad's antics after losing.

Argentina vs Spain delivered an enjoyable second half of 2026 World Cup Final football, with the latter being the dominant force, but an Enzo Fernandez horror tackle stained the occasion past the 90th.

Spain began second half proceedings with a flurry of close calls, none of which materialised into serious chances.

The Spanish were narrowly thwarted after a near brilliant moment of in-box intricacy, then Marc Cucurella was denied a clear-cut shot right on the edge of the six-yard box by an Argentinian tackle.

Enzo Fernandez sent off after committing World Cup horror tackle, as Argentina vs Spain enters extra-time

The Argentinians were also punished for their behaviour early on, after Ian Wright expressed discontent with the standard of refereeing at half-time.

Leandro Paredes was booked for unsporting behaviour after repeated shoving directly in view of referee Slavko Vincic.

Spain were then awarded two free-kicks in quick succession right on the corner of the Argentinian box, but failed to capitalise on either opportunity.

By the 65th-minute, the ITV broadcast pointed out that Argentina had failed to have an attempt of any kind throughout the entire match, as Spain's onslaught continued. By the 70th, Lionel Messi's men had managed merely one touch in their opposition's penalty area.

That pressure continued until the 90th, when Argentina posed a brief but unrewarding attack, failing yet again to register a shot.

But the only real talking point of the game came in second-half injury time as Enzo Fernandez received his marching orders for his second yellow card in just ten minutes.

The Chelsea midfielder received his first for dissent, and then went in with a clear late on Pau Cubarsi to earn himself a red card. He had only himself to blame for his sheer stupidity.

Despite protest from his fellow Argentinians, and a brief check by VAR, the booking stood.

The 2026 World Cup Final has now entered extra-time, after a Lamine Yamal free-kick was saved by Emi Martinez in the dying embers.

Argentina will play on with 10 men, having failed to register a shot for the entirety of the match so far.

Argentina vs Spain has provided fans across the globe with a first half of World Cup Final football packed with technical quality, but Ian Wright has been less than impressed with the referee, and the Argentina team's ability to somehow escape punishment.

The game began, before a ball was even in play, with an extravagant, classically American pre-match show, with Tom Cruise delivering a speech that only the Hollywood superstar could pull off.

For all of its cheesiness, the stoicism of the Spanish and Argentinian professionals was evident, and that transferred into the game itself.

'It's always Argentina' - Ian Wright slams referee leniency in favour of Lionel Messi's men vs Spain

After a preceding day of electric storms and flash floods, the 2026 World Cup Final is bathed in an afternoon of picturesque sun.

Within five minutes, Lamine Yamal got in on goal twice, being denied in a 1v1, then failing to square to an open man, then Lionel Messi was unleashed into open space and stopped from having a golden opportunity of his own by an onrushing Unai Simon.

Argentina, in Argentina fashion, began making challenges early on and quickly became the beneficiaries of 'Let It Go' refereeing.

Both teams played aggressive football defensively, marking man-to-man and refusing to allow any openings that weren't hard fought.

Wright, working as pundit for ITV, spoke on the refereeing decisions made in favour of Argentina throughout the first half.

The 2022 World Champions escaped the first half with just one booking, despite committing nine fouls in dubious fashion.

Wright said, in response to being asked whether the referee was being lenient with Lionel Scaloni's men: "Always with Argentina."

The former Arsenal man was met with a brief moment of silence, then laughter, after he said this, repeating 'always' to drill his point home.

Gary Neville chimed in with his take, saying: "[Alexis] MacAllister should have been booked," which Roy Keane quickly agreed with.

"Leniency to the extreme, I would say," concluded Neville.

Argentina vs Spain is the final match of the 2026 World Cup, to decide who will lift the sport's most sought-after prize.

Will it be Lionel Messi and his fellow Argentinians? Will they enjoy a second successive lift, after the trophy evaded him for much of his career?

Or will it be Spain, in potentially record-breaking fashion with the least goals ever conceded, which their previous Champion 2010 side already hold, en-route to a World Cup victory?

Argentina vs Spain: Will Lionel Messi lift a second successive World Cup trophy?

When we say that Argentina vs Spain isn't the final that was necessarily predicted, that goes beyond pre-tournament expectations.

Across North America, these sides - particularly Argentina - have looked unconvincing in moments, yet have time and time again risen to the occasion, and upped their level, when required.

Against France, Luis de la Fuente's men entered the clash as underdogs, then delivered a dominant, well-drilled performance for the ages while creating a plethora of chances for themselves.

Against Egypt in the round of 16, Argentina were incredibly lucky to not exit the tournament, after surviving a scare versus Cape Verde prior to the match.

That pattern followed against Switzerland and England, with the latter being favoured to win: taking it to extra-time against the Swiss and coming back from the dead again versus the Three Lions.

On paper, Spain have the superior team. On the evidence of the knockout rounds, Argentina may have the greater mentality.

It would be unwise to suggest there isn't as much pressure riding on the Argentinians: their beloved captain Messi, whose sword the side lives and dies by, is almost certainly playing his last World Cup.

As a result, future iterations of this Argentina squad will be devoid of their central figure, and how long will it be before they can compete for football's greatest prize again?

On the other hand, Spain's star man; well, not so much this tournament, has almost his entire career ahead of him.

After coming into the tournament still recovering from injury Lamine Yamal has been in unconvincing form for his high standards at the 2026 World Cup, but, unlike Messi, he should represent his nation at many more to come.

However, Spain haven't won the competition for 16 years after a series of deeply disappointing attempts to recapture the spark of their brilliant side of the late 2000s and early 2010s.

As the defending holders, Argentina have already proved their worth in making it back to this event, so the Spaniards have more to lose should they fail to turn up this evening.

Spain's defence is scarily strong, limiting what appeared to be the best offensive force in the tournament to nothing versus France.

But Argentina's attack, while not the best at a first glance, is certainly the most unrelenting, and with Messi, a moment from nowhere should be expected, not just possible.

The likes of Dani Olmo, Mikel Oyarzabal and Rodri have been in wonderful form, and Yamal is long overdue a defining match.

For the Argentinians, Messi has been Messi, but Enzo Fernandez, Alexis MacAllister and super substitute Lautaro Martinez are all proving to be serious dangers at this tournament.

FourFourTwo thinks that Argentina will ride their luck one final time, but in a similarly high-octane basketball game to the 2022 final.

When Spain's defence is penetrated, because it will be, we will finally see the attacking potency of their line-up without a lead to defend.

Yamal will spring to life, and while he will fall short of Kylian Mbappe's astonishing World Cup final performance last time out, he will prove worthy as successor to the legendary Messi.

PREDICTION: Argentina 2-2 Spain

Argentina win on penalties (5-3)

The only place to start this week is England’s semi-final defeat to Argentina. At 1-0 up, they were in control of the game, and if Thomas Tuchel had brought on some attacking players, it might’ve worked out, instead of just sitting back. And if you give world-class players like Lionel Messi time and space, then they’re going to hurt you.

I thought England managed the game really well up until about the 60-minute mark, but you have to question Tuchel’s approach from that point. Making those defensive changes is something he’s done against Mexico and Norway, but you can’t do it against teams like Argentina, who have the best player in the world.

Clinton was speaking on behalf of Freebets.com home to the best betting sites.

'If Gareth Southgate made those changes, he would’ve been crucified' - Clinton Morrison

If Gareth Southgate made those same changes, he would’ve been crucified by the whole nation. So I’d expect Tuchel to get plenty more stick over the next few months. Do I still think he's a good manager? Of course he's a good manager, look at his CV.

But I think when he sits down and thinks about it, he's got to realise he got it wrong at the end. When you're 1-0 up and you don't get that second goal, you can’t sit back, because you attract more pressure. And they've got good players who can unlock the door.

I can understand it if you're sitting back against a team with no quality, but Argentina have good players. When you're defending on your six-yard line, it's inevitable that they’re going to score. And sometimes having too many defenders on is counterproductive. When Lautaro Martinez scores, he's got a free header in the six-yard box with that many defenders around him. It baffles you.

The game was won and lost in those substitutions. Argentina's subs came on and made a big difference.

I understand Reece James had to come off because he was struggling with his hamstring and cramp. If you want to go to a five at the back, then you can do that. But the sub which surprised me was when Declan Rice was taken off and he brought on Nico O'Reilly.

We know O’Reilly can play midfield, but couldn't someone like Kobbie Mainoo come on, who can drive you up the pitch? He’s had no minutes at these finals. And towards the end, we needed someone like Ollie Watkins that could stretch the play in behind and give us an outlet.

Argentina have that never-say-die attitude though, and that is why they're world champions. I’m gutted for the England players and the fans, because they were so close to reaching a final and facing a very good Spain team. But at the end of the day, if you look at the whole game, the best team won.

I still think Tuchel is the right man to lead England. I know a lot of people are calling for him to be sacked, but if you're going to sack him, who's out there? A lot of people are saying Pep Guardiola.

If Pep becomes available, you grab it with both hands because he is the special one. But I just don't see The FA making a change at the moment. Zinedine Zidane’s name was bandied about, but it looks like he’s going to France with Didier Deschamps leaving. People were also talking about Jurgen Klopp, but he’s getting the Germany job. So Pep is probably the one out there, if England decided to make a change.

More immediately, England now have to prepare for that third-place game which no one really wants to play in. I don't know why that game is still part of the tournament, as it’s meaningless in my opinion. Some of those players just want to go on holiday now, recharge and get ready for the season.

If I'm Tuchel, I play the players that haven't had much game time. The likes of Kobbie Mainoo and Ollie Watkins, while Bukayo Saka hasn't played as much as he would’ve liked. You can rest your midfield though, as Rice has been carrying an injury. I know he's not going to fully change the team, but you can give other players an opportunity to say they experienced playing at a World Cup. You still want to win and beat France, but I'd give some of the players who've been on that long journey a rest.

All eyes will then be on the World Cup final, and I do think Spain’s midfield is stronger than Argentina’s, even though Enzo Fernandez and Alexis Mac Allister have had good tournaments. I think Spain will dominate possession. Messi likes to float in from that right-hand side, and I don't think Marc Cucurella will give him the time or space to get crosses into the box. Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez also love a scrap, and I think Lamine Yamal against Nicolás Tagliafico would be a great battle too.

Spain are my favourites, but I have a sneaky feeling Argentina are going to produce something magic. I just want it to be like the final we saw four years ago, where it was end-to-end between France and Argentina. Let's hope it'll be a game to remember.

Argentina booked their place in the World Cup Final on Wednesday evening with a comeback victory over England.

The Three Lions had taken the lead through Anthony Gordon during the second half but could not withstand a late Argentine barrage, conceding twice late on.

England were eliminated at the World Cup’s semi-final stage for the second time in the past three tournaments, having taken the lead on both occasions - the only country ever to do so.

Argentina unfurl Falklands banner after beating England

Goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez wrestled the game back in Argentina’s favour and left England with little time to find an equaliser.

Upon the final whistle, after nine added minutes, Argentina’s players celebrated jubilantly on the pitch in front of what was a majority of Argentine crowd.

Amidst the celebrations, unused substitute and Real Betis midfielder Lo Celso was pictured holding a banner which read ‘Las Malvinas son Argentinas’, directly referencing the 1982 Falklands War.

Translated to English, the banner reads: “The Falklands are Argentinian”.

Argentina lost the conflict having invaded the British Overseas Territory, but to this day, popular feeling in the South American country is that the crop of islands in the South Atlantic belong to Argentina.

Lionel Messi and co will meet Spain in the World Cup Final at the New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday.

It is as yet unclear as to whether the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and Lo Celso will be sanctioned for unfurling the political display.

FIFA’s protocols state the following: “Items of a political, offensive, sexual, discriminatory or commercial nature are strictly prohibited and may result in expulsion from the stadium.”

Haiti were forced to redesign their home shirt on the eve of their 2026 World Cup opener with Scotland, after it was deemed part of the initial design allegedly depicted an event synonymous with the country gaining independence from France.

The reason Newcastle United and England defender Dan Burn has nine fingers is due to a traumatic childhood accident that occurred when he was 13 years old.

For years, many Premier League fans have watched the 6ft 7in defender without ever noticing that he is missing the ring finger on his right hand.

Burn opened up in detail about the gruesome incident in an interview with Sky Sports last year, explaining exactly how it happened.

Dan Burn is missing a finger on his right hand

According to Burn, the injury occurred while hanging out with friends as a teenager.

"I'd been out with some friends, and I was showing off in front of a group of girls," he said. "I think a rabbit had got out and got into a community centre. So, I jumped the fence, not knowing there was a gate around the corner, and I was wearing a ring.

"It was a ring I was given off my grandad, so it was made of an old shilling, sort of solid. Then the spike got caught in the ring, and when I jumped off, it ripped me."

At first, Burn didn't realise the severity of his injury. It was only when he pulled back his sleeve that he saw the extent of the damage. He was rushed to the hospital, but his finger couldn't be saved.

While the injury hasn't hindered his football career in the Premier League or the journey to representing the England national team, Burn admits it has led to some funny and awkward situations in day-to-day life.

"I remember when I first started going out with my girlfriend, we used to go to McDonald's, you go through the drive-thru, hand over your money and when they give [the change] back, I'd put my hand out - the coins would fall between the gap of the car and the window.

"I'd open the door but I couldn't get the money back, so I would just have to leave it and just drive off. So contactless [payment] was the best thing that ever happened to me."

Burn made his World Cup debut as a second half substitute in the Round of 16, making six clearances and two blocks to help ten-man England hold onto a 3-2 lead against co-hosts Mexico.

The 34-year-old was also introduced off the bench deep in extra-time against Norway, leveraging his towering aerial presence to help England defend their slender advantage and secure a place in the semi-final.

France and Spain are both deserving of a place in the World Cup Final, on the basis of their tournament performances so far. But, only one can progress.

ITV are showing this fixture in the UK and have rolled out their broadcasting A team to bring you all the build-up, in-game analysis and post-game talking points.

Here's a full breakdown of the ITV squad calling this huge World Cup match-up.

Who are the pundits, commentators and presenters for France vs Spain?

The semi-final clash is being broadcast by ITV at 8pm BST, with coverage beginning at 7pm BST.

The complete line-up of pundits, commentators and presenters for the event has been revealed, with the game being played at the Dallas Stadium in Texas.

Mark Pougatch leads the coverage, as he has done throughout this tournament for ITV.

Joining him in a punditry team five-a-side of sorts is Karen Carney, Patrick Vieira, Gary Neville, Ian Wright and Roy Keane.

This particular quintet are vastly experienced on the international stage having made countless appearances at major tournaments for their countries combined.

Undoubtedly, there will be disagreements over key talking points but once again, coverage is expected to be almost as entertaining as the match itself.

Read FourFourTwo's France versus Spain prediction here.

In the commentary booth from Dallas, ITV have gone with Sam Matterface as lead-commentator and Lee Dixon alongside him in the co-comms role.

Those two have been putting some serious miles in throughout this tournament.

France and Spain face each other in Dallas this evening fighting for a place in the World Cup Final on Sunday.

The victor will play the winner of England versus Argentina tomorrow night, both of which are tantalising clashes with significant historical background.

Given what's at stake, tonight's contest is expected to be a testy, high-pressure affair - so, who is taking charge of it all?

Who is the referee for France vs Spain?

The final Round of 16 match will be officiated by referee Ivan Barton from El Salvador, who has developed quite a reputation for himself this tournament.

It will be his fourth match of the tournament, having previously officiated group matches between Turkey and Paraguay and Japan and Sweden, as well as the knockout fixture between Switzerland and Colombia.

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Barton made headlines during the Turkey-Paraguay match for his dramatic announcement of the decision to show Miguel Almiron a red card.

That incident, which was referred to VAR, saw the official become the first to send a player off for covering their mouth with their hand.

The 35-year-old is appearing at his second World Cup, having taken charge of three matches at Qatar 2022, including England's Round of 16 match against Senegal.

Barton will be joined on the pitch by fellow Salvadoran David Moran and Antonio Pupiro assisting from the sidelines.

Swedish referee Glenn Nyberg is fourth official, whilst reserve assistant is another Swede Mahbod Beigi.

Barton's previous record is pretty unpredictable when it comes to showing his cards, with only three players booked during the three World Cup matches at Qatar combined.

However, during 21 Salvadoran league matches in 2025 and 2026, Barton dished out 12 red cards and a staggering 113 yellows.

However, he has been a little less trigger happy during this summer, brandishing just 10 yellows altogether in addition to Almiron's red.

France vs Spain is sure to be the toughest test yet for Didier Deschamps' men at the 2026 World Cup, now in the semi-final.

Spain possess the best defence at the tournament, while France boast the strongest attacking line-up of any side across North America.

The Spaniards know what it takes to win against this bunch, having secured a memorable victory against them in the 2024 European Championship, which Spain went on to win outright.

France vs Spain prediction

As always in games of this magnitude, it's wise to look at the game-breakers each nation possess, and how they could influence the result.

That is Kylian Mbappe, the greatest World Cup player in history, and Lamine Yamal, respectively. And that feels like a mismatch.

For England in Saturday evening's quarter-final fixture, that man was Jude Bellingham: the youngest player since Pele to score braces in back-to-back knockout games.

The presence of a game-breaker, a man who steps up when the going gets tough, is necessary for matches of this calibre, as evidenced by Norway's Erling Haaland enduring a tough game, then losing.

But with Mbappe and Yamal, the outcome feels far more pre-determined than it was for the England-Norway clash.

The most unfortunate part for Spain is that, if the Barcelona youngster can turn it on, he is arguably the most effectively-designed player to vanquish this France superteam.

If you could grow a player in a lab to beat Deschamps' men, you would pour in a dash of long-shot ability, another of solo dribbling insanity, and a smidgen of "Big Game Riser" garnish for the final dish.

If Yamal was at his best, he would be the player capable of breaking the deadlock early on enough, and retaining pressure while progressing the ball, to defeat France.

But Barcelona's starboy isn't at his best. Not even close. And Mbappe is on the prowl to heal his 2022 wounds, and continue building an already astonishing World Cup resume.

Spain's defence is irrelevant when France possess a front three of Top 5 Ballon D'or candidates for 2027, but their ability to go up early, and apply a pressure that France have not seen yet at the tournament, hinges almost solely on Yamal's performance.

France vs Spain score prediction

Unfortunately, FourFourTwo doesn't believe that Spain can keep the Frenchmen at bay, nor do we believe that Yamal will spring to life, after a string of uninspiring performances as of late.

Prediction: France 3-1 Spain

When Bruno arrived on Tyneside in January 2022, four months into the Saudi project, there was a quiet sense that Newcastle had acquired something more than a midfielder.

Before the project had hardened into process, before the future of the club could be rendered as a consultant’s slide deck in Riyadh – strategic pillars, global tours, and upward arrows pointing to 2030 – Bruno made it feel tangible.

He gave flesh to what was otherwise an abstraction: a state-backed takeover, a distant ownership structure, a set of ambitions too large and too awkward to fit comfortably inside ordinary football language, let alone inside a club that has always understood itself less as a brand than a civic institution.

Newcastle can no longer match the ambitions of their captain and best player

At £40m, and with two Brazilian caps under his belt, he was the first genuinely glamorous signing of the Saudi era, striking a shrewd balance with Kieran Trippier: one a highly experienced hand, the other a glimpse of the kind of player Newcastle had spent years watching other clubs sign.

His talent was immediately obvious – little swivels under pressure, still a relatively exotic concept in recent Newcastle midfields; passes struck with the casual cruelty of a teacher correcting your posture and your entire understanding of where you are supposed to stand; the way he could receive even a square ball from Ciaran Clark as if it had arrived silver-service. The Angel of the North meets Christ the Redeemer: arms out, chest up, demanding the ball.

But, it was not simply talent that has earned him legendary status in Newcastle.

It was attitude: a refusal to show any opponent the proper level of deference; the sense that he had wandered into English football and found most of it in need of correction while still somehow looking like the most grateful man to be on the pitch.

That mattered because the early Saudi project required translation.

It needed something warmer than statements about ambition, investment and growth. Bruno provided it. He was the point at which the whole awkward arrangement could be experienced not as geopolitics, not as a moral argument, not as a sovereign wealth fund acquiring emotional real estate in the north-east, but as football: a great player in a great stadium, making people believe slightly unreasonable things.

And now, perhaps, Arsenal. As with Gordon, Real Madrid or Barcelona would have been easier to process, the old aristocracy doing what the old aristocracy does, floating across Europe with a velvet rope, self-important slogan and a chequebook.

Arsenal are different; they are the domestic benchmark that Newcastle were supposed to be chasing five years into the project: coherent, modern, upwardly mobile and perhaps close enough for the comparison to sting.

Rival fans have duly assembled online to gawp at another Tyneside doom spiral: Gordon, Tonali gone; perhaps Bruno next. There is a particular pleasure in watching another club’s grand ambitions meet the blunt end of the transfer market.

The strange thing is that many Newcastle fans understand it. Some may even feel a bleak sense of gratitude it has happened cleanly, honestly, without the long theatre of solitary fitness work at a former club and agent-polished farewell notes.

He will leave, if he does leave, as a club legend, having upheld his side of the bargain better than most modern footballers are ever required to do, and will likely win the trophies Newcastle haven't been able to deliver as of yet.

And yet the sadness among the supporters is not quite the whole story. Above it hangs the darker question about what Newcastle are becoming. Losing one beloved player is football. Losing several in the same summer can be dressed up as strategy or squad evolution. But losing the player who made the strategy look believable raises a more uncomfortable question: once the initial rush of acceleration has gone, what exactly are Newcastle asking supporting to believe in now?

Perhaps this is not the Saudi project failing, but entering its coldest phase: normality. The early years were about seduction: noise, flags, Champions League nights, the intoxicating sense that Newcastle had been lifted out of the food chain at last.

This summer suggests something more complicated. Supporters feel the rush of possibility; players confront the pace of progress; owners think in assets, timelines and portfolios.

Bruno made that arrangement feel like love. His departure would make it look rather more like business.

Norway are stunned by VAR's failure to intervene and chalk off Jude Bellingham's equalising goal for England.

National team boss Stale Solbakken has stated for the record his view of England's controversial strike, right on the brink of half-time.

Bellingham's strike came just two passes after the ball, from a goal kick, seemingly struck the television cable overhead and "changed direction", according to Norway's manager.

'The ball fell down from the sky and changed direction' - Norway boss fumes at England goal, after quarter-final defeat

Norway experienced a largely dominant first half in the 2026 World Cup, and should have expanded their lead to 2-0, if not for an Alexander Sorloth-shaped disaster in a two-on-one counter.

Shortly after the Norwegian striker failed to pass to a wide open Erling Haaland, the Three Lions pounced to life when a golden opportunity quite literally "fell down from sky" and levelled affairs.

Solbakken has described his view of the incident, and expressed his feelings for VAR's failure to intervene and chalk off the England goal.

The Norway boss said: "Yeah it probably will [count as an assist for the spidercam]. It was unlucky for us. The ball fell straight down from the sky and changed directions.

"We can sit here and complain and maybe we can feel rightly that the small details did not go in our favor. Against Brazil, they did. That's how it is in football.

"But maybe we need those small details to go in our favor to beat England, Brazil and other teams in the top 5 in the world.

"We can't do anything about that. I don't think we'll play the game again so that's how it is," he said.

Solbakken expressed high praise for his Norway side, stating that this team can "go toe-to-toe" with the world's best.

The 58-year-old also clarified that the referee told him he did not see anything for Bellingham's goal, before expressing doubt over the functionality of the in-ball movement chip.

"I cannot say anything on that because there is no movement in the chip. What can I say against that? But the ball falls straight down in front of Haaland," said Solbakken.

"I wonder also what happened, but I think it is pretty clear that it did [hit the wire]. It was a strange thing."

The Norway manager then explained the motivation behind his bizarre late-stage substitution of goal machine Haaland.

"It was not a tough decision because he was finished and maybe I should have taken him out 10 minutes before. He obviously had a tremendous World Cup," said the 58-year-old.

"I think he also got a dead leg in the second half so that combined with the fatigue, but he did everything he could.

"He scored seven goals in five games for us and had a fantastic World Cup for us," said Solbakken, before praising all his squad for their "phenomenal" performances across the tournament.

England boss Thomas Tuchel conceded that his side "just got lucky" in crucial moments during the quarter-final bout, criticising his side for their poor performance.

Three Lions star Bellingham did not take kindly to his manager's words, but Tuchel clarified that he is "fully in love" with his team.

Thomas Tuchel has admitted that England "just got lucky" in their quarter-final victory against Norway this evening.

The England boss did not shy away from criticism for his side in a post-match interview with ITV, expressing his disappointment in their performance.

Now, the Three Lions boss has expanded on those feelings, speaking after the clash, and that dissatisfaction is still present.

'We just got lucky, we HAVE to play better' - Thomas Tuchel holds harsh feelings for England, despite 2-1 win vs Norway

Jude Bellingham was the hero this evening, scoring two for his nation and sealing a comeback victory — now the second youngest player after Pele to score a brace in back-to-back knockout games at the World Cup.

Tuchel has expanded on his immediate criticism post-match, which Bellingham did not take kindly to from the England boss.

The manager said: "No one disputes [that it was hot outside]. I was impressed with the team spirit, the belief and to overcome adversity and to dig in and find ways to win. Top credit for that. But I am also a football coach, and I think we can play better.

"The analysing head and the football coach in me thinks we can and have to play better football. I think we just got lucky in decisive moments.

"I don't think we are lucky to win, but lucky in decisive moments. We could have been 2-0 down. No one ever denies that you need luck in tournament football. I see no harm in admitting it. That's the way I felt today," continued Tuchel.

The England boss had high praise for his side's 23-year-old hero, describing Bellingham's performance as "world-class" from an individual who "produces in big moments."

Tuchel also expressed praise for the youngster's partner-in-crime, Harry Kane, noting that their game plan has "simple" in creating opportunities almost exclusively through that partnership, but attacking performances in general must improve.

The 52-year-old also acknowledged England's controversially allowed opening goal versus Norway, which arguably should have been chalked off due to television cable interference with the ball.

Tuchel said: "I heard that, but there's a chip in the ball and it can tell you if a hair can touch it, as you know from the Croatia-Portugal game. I was not aware."

He also commented on the bizarre late-stage substitution of Erling Haaland, noting that he saw the Norwegian striker getting visibly exhausted and "struggling with the physicality of the match."

The England boss concluded with high praise for his side, but re-affirmed his initial criticism.

"In my heart there is no doubt that I am proud and happy because the team does whatever it takes. They overcome obstacles and adversity, but I am also a football coach and I also have demands.

"We want to have a top performance because a top performance helps you win games.

"My head is not fully satisfied. I think we can play faster, I think we can play more clinical. We had too many mistakes... [but] there is no disconnect with the team.

"I am fully in love with my players and my team," finished Tuchel.

Jude Bellingham was tense after ITV reporter Gabriel Clarke let him know about Thomas Tuchel's criticism for England tonight.

The Three Lions prevailed in a narrow 2-1 victory against Norway in the 2026 World Cup quarter-final, and will face the winner of Argentina versus Switzerland in the last four.

Bellingham was the hero on the night: he scored both of England's goals and became the second-youngest player after Pele to score braces in back-to-back World Cup knockout games.

Jude Bellingham reacts to Thomas Tuchel criticism

Speaking after the match, Thomas Tuchel told ITV that he was disappointed in England's performance against the Norwegians.

The Three Lions boss said: "We made life very difficult for ourselves today. I'm not happy with the performance."

Tuchel admitted, ‘The commitment was there’, but clarified that he was disappointed ‘in every sense’ following England's victory.

"The way we played, how we played: sloppy. A lot of technical mistakes, not fast enough," he said.

Bellingham, who won Man of the Match for his remarkable display against Norway, was later told by Clarke about Tuchel's words, also speaking with ITV.

In response to Tuchel's criticism, the Three Lions star said: "Whatever. Whatever. t's difficult out there... the players put in a very tough shift."

He continued. "My thoughts and appreciation goes to the players who were out there."

When asked for his opinion of the England performance, Bellingham defined it as having only been possible due to "character."

"Perseverance when things weren't working. Whether it's 90, 120, we'll give everything we've got," he said.

England have now made it back to the World Cup semi-finals, last appearing on that stage in 2018 where they fell 2-1 to Croatia.

Argentina vs Switzerland does not stand out on paper as being the most enthralling quarter-final fixture of the 2026 World Cup.

Despite this, fans would be silly to overlook the shockingly poor form that Argentina, the 2022 World Champions, have been in, and the difficulties they've faced against smaller nations this tournament.

Switzerland enter the clash after a hard-fought, impressive win on penalties vs Colombia, but can they finally be the ones who upset Lionel Messi's side?

Who are the pundits, commentators and presenters for Argentina vs Switzerland?

The quarter-final clash will be broadcast by ITV at 2am BST, with coverage beginning at 1:15am BST.

The complete line-up of pundits, commentators and presenters for the event has been revealed, with the game being held at the Arrowhead Stadium.

Serving as presenter for the event is Laura Woods and joining her on the punditry team is Bradley Wright-Phillips and Jobi McAnuff.

Serving as the match's main voice is Seb Hutchinson, with Andros Townsend as co-commentator for the clash.

England got away with a lucky bounce of the ball - literally - in the lead up to Jude Bellingham's equaliser and the goal should have been ruled out after a bizarre incident.

In the lead up to Bellingham's goal, a goal kick from Norway's Orjan Nyland, the ball appeared to hit the cable over the pitch that holds the overhead TV camera in place and fell down sharply into the path of Elliot Anderson and two passes later the ball was with Bellingham who scored.

According to the official IFAB Laws of the Game, if the ball strikes a ceiling or a fixture hanging over the pitch, such as a cable or overhead camera, and remains inside the field of play, the match must be halted.

Jude Bellingham's goal for England should have been chalked off and given as a drop ball, leading to protest from Norway's Erling Haaland at the 2026 World Cup

The referee should then award a dropped ball to the team that last touched the ball, with play restarting from the spot where the ball made contact with the fixture.

Via Fox Sports coverage, former referee Mark Clattenburg said that any instance of the ball touching the TV cable should result in the match being halted.

As relayed by Rebecca Lowe, Clattenburg said: "If the ball touches any outside object, then the whistle should go, and it should be a drop ball."

The former referee then added: "Some will ask, why does the VAR not interfere?

"They can interfere, if that contact [with the cable] is part of a reviewable incident."

He concluded: "An attacking phase of play leading to a goal is a part of VAR's reviewable incidents, so it should have been picked up by VAR."

Ahead of extra time, Fox presenter Lowe reported that FIFA denied that the ball hit the cable.

FIFA are understood to have checked the data within the football and that there was no peak on the graph from the connected ball heartbeat sensor.

The Adidas footballs being used at the tournament are each fitted with a chip and utilise 'connected ball technology', which relays data directly to the VAR system.

The microchip produces accurate, instantaneous data on everything from ball movement, speed and trajectory to player touches, with adidas claiming the technology enables 'faster in-game officiating decisions and more insight into gameplay than ever before.'

But at the time, Erling Haaland led vocal protests directed at the referee due to the ball striking the cable, but it was not ruled out.

Norway looked much better after the first hydration break and took the lead via an astonishing finish from Andreas Schjelderup, whose cross translated into the top corner of the goal and over Jordan Pickford.

Norway should have gone 2-0 up before the break when Alexander Sorloth broke free and should have played in Erling Haaland.

But minutes later England were level thanks to Bellingham's excellent finish.

England were also the beneficiaries of a Norway goal being chalked off in the second half.

Haaland was deemed to have shoved future Manchester City team-mate Elliot Anderson in the build-up to a set piece goal from the Norwegians.

The game went into extra time and England went ahead when Bellingham grabbed his second of the game to put England into the semi-final.

The complete line-up of pundits, commentators and presenters for England vs Norway has been revealed.

England enter the face-off having staggered through a monumental task in beating Mexico at the Azteca earlier this week.

Elsewhere, Norway provided viewers an all-time underdog victory, winning against Brazil in remarkably assured fashion.

Who are the pundits, commentators and presenters for England vs Norway?

England vs Norway will be played at 10pm BST, broadcast by ITV, at the Miami Stadium in Florida.

The fixture will likely be defined by Harry Kane and Erling Haaland, the two best strikers in world football, trading blows to sink their opposition, but Jude Bellingham will surely also have a say.

Serving as presenter for the event is Mark Pougatch who has led the channel's coverage throughout this tournament.

Joining him as pundits for the broadcast are the evergreen Roy Keane, Gary Neville and Ian Wright, with Gabriel Clarke as reporter in Miami.

ITV's coverage has been top drawer this summer and as we approach the business end of the World Cup, expect it to be even more opinionated with yet more panelist flashpoints as the stakes ramp up.

England-Norway presents the likes of Keane and Neville to go hammer and tongs at each other over contentious decisions.

We're glad we aren't in Pougatch's seat having to keep the ex-pros at bay.

And as the match's main voice is Sam Matterface, with Lee Dixon joining as co-commentator for the quarter-final clash.

Kick-off in Miami is at 5pm local time (10pm BST) this evening.

England vs Norway at the 2026 World Cup promises to be a thrilling fixture, with either side possessing one of the two best bagsmen in world football.

It's the battle of Harry Kane and Erling Haaland, seen last in the 2022/23 Premier League season.

A few years ago, these two titans were trading blows in the race for the English top-flight's Golden Boot, but no goal in either of their careers will be more meaningful than one in this quarter-final.

England vs Norway prediction: The battle of Harry Kane vs Erling Haaland at the 2026 World Cup

England as a squad possess greater tools to secure victory than Norway do, but neither team are one-man armies.

While Kane and Haaland are seizing headlines for their nation's results, their supporting casts belong at this level.

The difference will be simple: can Norway get the ball to Haaland more often in threatening situations than the Three Lions do Kane?

The two strikers, the best in the world at putting the ball in the back of the net, couldn't be more different as players.

For Kane, he thrives without chance quality or quantity, but through the magic of his own boot.

Haaland is a predator in waiting: not the most clinical finisher, but a far more dangerous, and committed, threat inside the box.

This battle will be key, and Kane needs to produce the same sort of awe-inspiring wonder as he did to return England from the dead against DR Congo.

The Haaland problem is ludicrously complex to solve for Thomas Tuchel's men, because marking him intensely won't be a solution.

His height, his speed, his power, will all make him a threat too strong to contain, even if the Three Lions boss pulls out Dan Burn and his magnificent skull to try and counter the problem.

That battle will be won in the middle of the pitch, by stopping Norway from having regular opportunities to spray balls into the England box.

Or, it will be won by Haaland having a bad day at the office, and Kane having a career-best one, with the Three Lions incredibly reliant on their star striker, and the space he creates for Jude Bellingham.

Both men will be impossible to contain, but a mostly even game will be decided by the England striker, whose supporting cast will stop Norway's bagsman from getting the quantity of chances he needs.

Prediction: England 2-1 Norway

Goals: Jude Bellingham, Erling Haaland, Harry Kane

Argentina vs Switzerland will decide who moves into the final four and faces off against England or Norway in the 2026 World Cup semi-finals.

Nobody would have predicted that the 2022 World Champions would have been taken to the absolute wire and back by Cape Verde and Egypt, two glorious nations that won our hearts, yet they did.

Argentina's path to the semi-final, compared to that of Spain, France and England, has been easier than many would have expected, but can they progress with greater ease against Switzerland?

Argentina vs Switzerland prediction

Lionel Messi has been remarkable this tournament, but can a run of Algeria, Austria, Jordan, Cape Verde and Egypt be used to define him?

Messi has Kylian Mbappe, the greatest World Cup player in history, hot on his tail in the Golden Boot race, and Switzerland, then Norway or England, stand in his way of another final versus France.

There is no excuse for Messi not to perform in this clash, nor is there any excuse for Argentina to not win with ease.

Switzerland possess a disciplined, built-for-the-pressure squad, but it lacks the star power of the South American side, and the expectation.

If anything can will the Swiss to victory, it will be that absence of expectation, but Argentina are in dire need of a statement win.

Being ran into the ground by Cape Verde and Egypt of all teams is not only a poor look, it's a bad omen for when they inevitably face serious heavy hitters at this tournament, if they progress.

Argentina have far, far too much of a reliance on and focal point in Messi, that has made them play with hesitance this tournament.

By looking for him in every moment, and acting as though their game is dictated solely by Messi's performance, has killed this side, and made them prone to collapse at the hands of minnow nations.

Argentina have been anything but impressive, and Switzerland will have a chance to capitalise on that.

Unfortunately for the Swiss, world champions don't allow these bad runs to stretch for too long, and they will be on the receiving end of their resurgence.

Argentina vs Switzerland score prediction

They will fight valiantly, but this will be the first knockout match that Argentina win without controversy or struggle.

And, of course, the man to spearhead that will be Messi, setting up a semi-final showdown with England or Norway that will give him an opportunity to prove he still has it against the best opposition.

Prediction: Argentina 2-0 Switzerland

Freddy Adu has revealed his thoughts on Max Dowman's ability, as the Arsenal youngster looks to break into the England squad over the coming years.

Dowman is widely renowned as one of the nation's finest talents, and is being carefully managed in London by title-winning coach Mikel Arteta.

As England look to seal their place in the semi-finals at the 2026 World Cup alongside Spain, Adu has revealed the similarities he sees between Dowman and Spanish starboy Lamine Yamal.

'I think he can become to England what Yamal is to Spain' - Freddy Adu on Arsenal wonderkid's Three Lions prospects

Dowman enjoyed a breakout season with Arsenal, this year, winning the Premier League under Arteta.

The 16-year-old, who at the time of his debut became the youngest to ever play in the Premier League, was electric against Everton at the Emirates in the early stages of the run-in, scoring a dagger against the Toffees with a late solo run.

Adu, who was once described as 'the next Pele' and saw out his playing career in America, Turkey and France, has described Dowman's quality as being similar to that of Yamal.

The 37-year-old said: "I do see the similarity between Dowman and Yamal. He's good at taking people on, he comes in and creates chances. He's dangerous.

"Dowman has got a way to go but, if he has the opportunity, I think he can become to England what Yamal is to Spain.

"That's the type of player you want out there. You want players that are always dangerous, no matter where they are on the field. They constantly create a threat, that puts fear in defenders.

"I really hope [England] encourage his way of playing, encourage him and let the kid play, let him be and let him do what he does best. If they do that, he's going to be a world-class player for England."

Adu also described Dowman's body feint and dribbling ability as akin to that of Lionel Messi, stating: "You [either] have it, or you don’t. You can’t just pick it up later on in your career."

The Arsenal wonderkid will look to build on his breakout season in 2026/27 with the London side, as Arteta looks to retain his team's Premier League title.

Dowman did not get a call-up to Thomas Tuchel's 2026 World Cup squad, but his career ahead of the next major tournament will be fascinating to follow.

Adu spoke with FourFourTwo via Caesars Sportsbook Promo ahead of England’s World Cup clash with Norway.

Harry Kane has revealed he played golf with the President of the United States, days after Donald Trump waxed poetic about his performance versus Mexico.

The England striker scored and assisted in a 3-2 victory against the co-hosts, and gave away a penalty shortly after his goal, in an eventful evening at the Azteca.

As Kane and the Three Lions prepare for a quarter-final battle versus Norway, the Bayern Munich bagsman has opened up about another battle: on the green, with the President of the United States.

Harry Kane and Donald Trump's golfing escapades revealed

Kane has enjoyed his change of scenery since leaving Tottenham Hotspur, embarking on a new journey overseas in Germany.

The Three Lions striker has delivered his career-best season for goals, and won both the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal with Bayern Munich.

According to a report from The Athletic, Kane has enjoyed the rise in international fame he has experienced since trading in the Premier League for the German top-flight, which led to him playing golf alongside President Trump.

Speaking in a pre-match press conference before the Norway game, the 32-year-old said revealed that the round of golf was played 18 months ago in Florida.

Kane said: "He invited me to play when I was down in Palm Beach. So when the President invites you somewhere…

"It was a pretty surreal experience just to meet him, and to play golf with him. His golf is pretty good, to be honest... I played alright.

"I hope I can play golf as well as him when I’m his age, that’s for sure. So, [it was] a unique experience. I’m just grateful he invited me down to play," he concluded.

Trump praised Kane for his showing versus Mexico in a social media post on Sunday, writing: "Harry Kane of England is a GREAT player!"

The President had positive words for Kane the day after, where he revealed the existence of their, until now, secret golf round.

“I think Kane is a great player,” said Trump. “See, I played golf with him and I like him a lot. He’s a good golfer. He’s really great.”