FIFA World Cup 2026

A FORMER Manchester United fan favourite has landed a surprise new gig after four months in the football wilderness. Fox Sports announced on Thursday that Mexico’s legendary goal-machine Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez will join their broadcast team for the World Cup 2026. The 37-year-old will join a star-studded lineup including Thierry Henry and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, providing...

The English forward at Al-Ahli is now at the centre of a storm that could hand Ronaldo and Al-Nassr a sudden boost in both the scoring charts and the title chase. Cristiano Ronaldo and Ivan Toney were both expected to define the direction of the Saudi Pro League title race this month, but few imagined the latest twist would come from outside the pitch. The English forward at Al-Ahli is now at the centre of a storm that could hand Ronaldo and Al-Nassr a sudden boost in both the scoring charts and the Saudi Pro League title chase. What’s more, his future has been clouded by the threat of a potentially career-altering suspension following his explosive remarks about refereeing. The controversy erupted after Al-Ahli’s tense meeting with Al-Fayha, a match that was overshadowed by two denied penalties that left Toney and the coaching staff seething. The frustration boiled over when the referee refused to overturn either decision, even after VAR checks, which pushed emotions toward a breaking point. Toney did not hold back after the final whistle, setting the stage for the disciplinary saga that followed. His post-match interview, aired by Thamania, remains the source of the biggest shock. “The referee clearly overlooked two clear penalties, despite consulting VAR, but decided to deny Al-Ahli their rights,” he said, already sounding braced for trouble. Moments later, he escalated the accusation, adding, “The referee told us to focus on the AFC Champions League. Is that normal?” Furthermore, the 29-year-old responded without hesitation when asked who these purported effects helped: “The team we’re chasing.” That suggestion leaves a little to the imagination, considering the fact that Al Nassr, Ronaldo’s team, is now four points ahead of his side, and with a game in hand. TONEY JUST SAID THIS… 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 “The referee told us after the match… ‘Focus on the Asian Champions League.’ How does a referee say something like that? His head is somewhere else. I hope it was recorded and gets released.” Asked who benefits? Toney: “The team we’re chasing.” pic.twitter.com/eqKfhUBrZb — All About SPL 🔔 🇸🇦 (@Saudifutbol) April 8, 2026 How long could the ban really be? It was these accusations that alerted investigators and triggered the most serious disciplinary threat of Toney’s career. According to Goal, the English forward is now facing the possibility of a lengthy suspension, one severe enough that it could keep him out of club soccer for an extended period and disrupt any hope of representing England at the 2026 World Cup. The Saudi Arabian Football Association (SAFF) has yet to confirm any sanction, though Goal claims that sources close to the case suggest the charges include matters beyond his referee comments, including alleged betting-related violations. Legal adviser Salman Al-Ramali underscored the gravity of the situation, telling Okaz: “Toney’s statement casts doubt on the integrity of refereeing and is detrimental to the Saudi League.” Citing Article 5/50 of the SAFF regulations, he added that penalties can include disqualification of up to 12 months, along with significant financial punishment of up to 300,000 riyals ($80,000). Ivan Toney of Al Ahli celebrates after scoring How a possible ban could affect England at 2026 World Cup This midpoint is where the scale of the suspension becomes clearer: Toney could be banned for as long as a full season, potentially keeping him sidelined long enough to derail his World Cup dreams entirely. The timing could hardly be more daunting for England manager Thomas Tuchel, who has been monitoring Toney closely amid uncertainty over striking options. With Harry Kane’s fitness fluctuating and other forwards battling inconsistent form, the Al-Ahli star had been considered a strong candidate for upcoming call-ups. Should the suspension be enforced, his international pathway would be blocked at a moment when England needs depth more than ever. Ivan Toney of England What it would mean for Ronaldo’s Golden Boot chances Even though Ronaldo was nowhere near the fixture, his name inevitably entered the conversation due to the title implications. With Toney potentially removed from competition for an extended period, the Portuguese superstar’s chances of winning both the Golden Boot and the league title have instantly improved. The 41-year-old trails Toney by four goals, but the latter’s absence would significantly open the door for Ronaldo to step up his game in the final seven league games. Current Saudi Pro League Golden Boot standings. pic.twitter.com/83ItylJnOp — The Nassr Tribune™️ (@AlNassrTribune) April 8, 2026

Christian Pulisic’s international teammate Patrick Agyemang was expected to shape the United States’ attacking identity heading into the 2026 World Cup, yet he is now facing a heartbreaking setback. Christian Pulisic’s international teammate Patrick Agyemang was expected to shape the United States’ attacking identity heading into the 2026 World Cup, yet he is now facing a heartbreaking setback. The USMNT suffered a major blow when the Derby County striker sustained a serious injury that immediately ruled him out of the tournament. Agyemang’s injury came during Derby’s 2-0 win over Stoke City in the EFL Championship, a match that had initially looked routine for the club. The 25-year-old was stretchered off after landing awkwardly, with staff and teammates immediately sensing the severity of the moment. Derby later confirmed in a statement that he had suffered a serious Achilles tendon injury. The club announced, “Patrick will be undergoing a further assessment of the injury later today.” It continued with a message of support, saying: “The club will provide Patrick with the highest level of medical care and rehabilitation throughout his recovery. Everyone at Derby County is fully behind Patrick at this difficult time and will continue to support him every step of the way.” The United States had penciled Agyemang into its plans after he impressed in recent windows. He featured during March’s friendlies against Belgium and Portugal, scoring in the 5-2 defeat to Belgium, and had become one of the more promising attacking options under Mauricio Pochettino. The striker’s return of six national-team goals from 14 games, paired with his ten league strikes this season, made him a strong contender for the final roster. The club can confirm Patrick Agyemang suffered a serious Achilles tendon injury during the first half of the Sky Bet Championship fixture against Stoke City. We're all with you, Pat. 🖤 — Derby County (@dcfcofficial) April 7, 2026 Pochettino now faces a significant tactical decision as he reassesses the player pool. The absence of Agyemang, who had recently fit seamlessly into the coach’s plans, leaves a noticeable gap in the attacking rotation. His progress since leaving the MLS for England’s second division had positioned him on the rise, making the setback even more devastating. What did Agyemang say on social media? The most touching moment came when Agyemang finally addressed the situation publicly. In a heartfelt Instagram post, he opened up: “Man, words can’t really describe the moment I realized what happened. You can only imagine the thoughts going through my head… but that’s life sometimes.” He continued with gratitude, saying: “First, I just want to thank God for everything He’s done in my life and for all that’s still to come. Also, [I] wanted to say thank you all for the love, messages, and support. It’s been amazing and truly touched my heart. “I’ll be back soon, don’t worry.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Pat Agyemang (@patrick_agyy) Who steps in for USMNT now? Folarin Balogun is expected to lead the line, with the striker delivering consistently for the national team. Ricardo Pepi remains another reliable figure due to his form for PSV, while Haji Wright’s strong Championship record of 16 goals for Coventry makes him almost certain to be included. Wright also brings experience from the 2022 World Cup, giving him an edge in squad discussions. Christian Pulisic of the United States As per football360, Mauricio Pochettino may even consider shifting Christian Pulisic or Timothy Weah centrally if he wants to adjust the balance of the squad. Such a move would open space in the wide areas while maintaining firepower up front.

Like a LinkedIn Premium member, Manchester United star Harry Maguire has left a glowing endorsement of himself. Maguire put pen to paper on a new United contract at the start of the week. The 33-ye…

THOMAS TUCHEL is taking his England squad to the home of Mickey Mouse ahead of the World Cup. The Three Lions will travel to Orlando to take on Costa Rica in a friendly at the Inter&Co Stadium on June 10. This will be the squad’s final warm-up game before they travel to their Kansas base...

The record-high 48-team, 104-game tournament will see 52 referees and 30 video assistant referees used

On the latest edition of Caught Offside with Andrew Gundling and JJ Devaney, we take you through the UEFA Champions League quarterfinal 1st legs. We discuss the madness of Trent Alexander-Arnold, the "esteem" with which Harry Kane is held, the importance of Kai Havertz's winning goal and another bizarre handball incident at the Camp Nou. Plus, we share our thoughts on the massive bummer that is the Patrick Agyemang injury and JJ takes us through his interactions with nature while over in Ireland. For even more Caught Offside content, get on over to Caught Offside Plus right now! We've got a brand new Mailbag out for your right now talking Pedri, Leicester, Levy and more! Also, "World Cup Madness" has wrapped up on PLUS. If you're looking to get caught up, here's what we have for you: -Episode 1 - Tournament to determine the greatest USMNT World Cup matches of all time -Episode 2 - Tournament to determine the worst USMNT World Cup matches of all time -Episode 3 - Tournament to determine the best USMNT player going into this World Cup and the best overall player going into this World Cup To sign up, just go to https://caughtoffside.supercast.com! Once you have access to the premium feed, be sure to go back and check out our special "welcome episode" from June 24th, 2024 (we don't think you'll be disappointed)! And for all the latest merch, get over to https://caughtoffsidepod.com/ - Spring has sprung, you've made it through the winter, so buy yourself a present! Get a Caught Offside t-shirt! --- Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/CaughtOffsidePod/ X: https://twitter.com/COsoccerpod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caughtoffsidepod/ Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mexico's all-time leading scorer is joining FOX Sports for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Harry Maguire believes he is “one of the best defenders in the world” as the Manchester United centre-back looks to feature in one last World Cup with England this summer. The Red Devils have won seven of their 10 Premier League games since Michael Carrick’s arrival as interim head coach (D2 L1), seeing them move […] The post Maguire: I´m arguably one of the best defenders in the world appeared first on Soccer News.

Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/CLNS and use code CLNS and get $50 in lineups when you play your first $5 lineup! We are close to the World Cup, so what will the USMNT roster look like? Caring and Cures → https://www.caringandcures.com Patreon → https://www.patreon.com/TacticalManagerTV Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/tacticalmanagertv Twitter → https://twitter.com/ManagerTactical TikTok→ https://www.tiktok.com/@tacticalmanagertv?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Brazil Channel→ @chapeuFootball Merch store → https://www.tacticalmanagertv.com/ Discord link: https://discord.gg/8crvqsqWRU FuboTV Link for Free Trial: https://www.fubo.tv/welcome?irad=343747&irmp=2871982 Our Live Streaming Studio Browser platform preference: https://streamyard.com?fpr=tactical10 Music By Danae Subscribe to his Channel : @listentodanae Intro music by Music By Skymike Subscribe to his Channel : https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCt2p67RGk8XSquT1OvOfoZg Sources: https://www.transfermarkt.com https://www.mlssoccer.com/ https://www.espn.com/ https://www.fotmob.com/ #USMNT #TacticalManagerTV

La CONMEBOL amplía el alcance del plan antidopaje y fortalece su estrategia integral basada en la prevención y la educación. Se intensifican las acciones dirigidas a jugadores, cuerpos médicos y equipos técnicos, con el objetivo de reducir resultados adversos y promover el juego limpio en todas las competiciones. La Confederación Sudamericana de Fútbol (CONMEBOL) continúa consolidando su programa antidopaje en todas las competiciones organizadas, a través de un enfoque que prioriza la concientización y la formación en el fútbol sudamericano. En este contexto, se han reforzado de manera sostenida las iniciativas preventivas y educativas, orientadas a garantizar el cumplimiento de la normativa vigente y a minimizar los riesgos asociados al uso indebido de sustancias en competiciones de alto rendimiento. Entre las principales medidas implementadas se destacan las acciones educativas en todas las competiciones organizadas por la CONMEBOL, enfocadas en la difusión de la Lista de Prohibiciones y en el uso adecuado de medicamentos y suplementos. Asimismo, se ha fortalecido el mensaje preventivo antes y durante cada competencia, con énfasis en la responsabilidad individual del deportista y en el rol clave de los profesionales de la salud. Además, la CONMEBOL, en coordinación con la Unidad Disciplinaria, impulsa la difusión de materiales institucionales y avanza en la elaboración de una nota técnica integral destinada a las Asociaciones Miembro, para su implementación con clubes y cuerpos médicos. Como parte de este enfoque, la labor se desarrolla en articulación permanente con otras confederaciones y organismos nacionales, promoviendo el intercambio de buenas prácticas y la armonización de estándares en la región. - Fortalecimiento de la preparación médica y antidopaje rumbo al Mundial 2026 - Por otra parte, se llevaron adelante jornadas de capacitación dirigidas a profesionales médicos de las Asociaciones Miembro, con el objetivo de fortalecer la preparación de las selecciones sudamericanas de cara a la Copa Mundial de la FIFA 2026. Durante el encuentro se abordaron aspectos clave vinculados al control antidopaje, el uso responsable de medicamentos y suplementos, y la actualización de protocolos conforme a la normativa vigente, promoviendo además el intercambio de buenas prácticas y la unificación de criterios en toda la región. De esta manera, la CONMEBOL reafirma su compromiso con el juego limpio, la educación y la protección de la salud e integridad de los deportistas. CONMEBOL.com

Mexico's all-time leading scorer adds to a star-laden panel of TV analysts for this summer's World Cup

Former Galaxy standout and Mexico soccer legend Javier 'Chicharito' Hernández is heading to the broadcast booth as part of Fox's World Cup coverage.

Republic of Ireland defender Aoife Mannion has warned there's more to Poland than star Barcelona striker Ewa Pajor ahead of next week's crunch World Cup qualifiers double-header.

The reigning World Cup champions will wrap up their preparations for the 2026 competition in SEC country

England will face New Zealand and Costa Rica before beginning their World Cup campaign against Croatia on 17 June

Scotland confirm a friendly against Bolivia in Harrison, New Jersey on 6 June as their final warm-up game before this summer's World Cup finals.

Yet another twist in the 2026 FIFA World Cup ticketing saga has soured fans who feel duped about the process

World Cup 2026 will be full of prolific goal-getters but who will win the Golden Boot?

World Cup 2026: England eager to snap trophy drought England will head into the 2026 World Cup as one of the bookmakers’ favourites to lift the trophy, despite their underwhelming record in major tournaments. The Three Lions’s only previous success was in the 1966 World Cup on home soil. They have repeatedly failed to reward… The post World Cup 2026: England eager to snap trophy drought first appeared on Breaking The Lines.

Tottenham have been dealt a further injury blow with winger Mohammed Kudus suffering a setback. The Ghana star established himself as a key player in north London following his arrival from rivals …

Tottenham have been dealt a fresh injury setback with Mohammed Kudus potentially missing the rest of the season.

Enzo Fernandez's agent says there is 'nothing' in speculation linking the Chelsea midfielder to Real Madrid.

MOHAMMED KUDUS is believed to have suffered an injury setback in what would be a major blow to relegation-threatened Tottenham. While there are fears it could throw the Ghana star’s participation at this summer’s World Cup into jeopardy. Kudus, 25, has been out since January with a crocked quad and hamstring. Spurs were hoping he...

Harry Maguire rejected the opportunity to join Inter Miami before agreeing to extend his contract at Manchester United, according to The Sun, choosing top-level European football over a move to the MLS side co-owned by David Beckham where he would have been teammates with Lionel Messi. For a player in his early thirties who spent […] The post Manchester United star turned down the chance to play with Messi before signing a new deal at Old Trafford first appeared on Premier League News Now.

Luis Suarez would not say no if he were to be called up by Uruguay for this year’s World Cup. Suarez scored 69 goals in 143 games for Uruguay before he called time on his international career in September 2024. The former Barcelona forward is his nation’s record goalscorer, and he has played at four […] The post Suarez open to Uruguay return for World Cup appeared first on Soccer News.

Liverpool had a tough night in Paris, but it could've been worse. At least Arne Slot wasn't mistaken for a ball. Luke, Vish and Jim discuss last night's Champions League quarter-finals and why Marcos Llorente is such a profoundly odd bloke. Vish makes the case that Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is an Enhanced Games version of Thomas Müller, while Spunkbubble Richard Keys reminds Jim of one of the greatest hatchet job interviews of all time (which you can read here)... Get your Ramble merch HERE. Find us on Bluesky, X, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube, and email us here: [email protected]. Sign up to the Football Ramble Patreon for ad-free shows for just $5 per month: https://www.patreon.com/footballramble. ***Please take the time to rate us on your podcast app. It means a great deal to the show and will make it easier for other potential listeners to find us. Thanks!*** The Football Ramble, the original and best football podcast. Brand new podcasts every single weekday throughout the Premier League season and every day throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup. No cliches. No ex-pros like Peter Crouch or The Rest is Football. Just the funniest football conversation out there. Your guardian for the season, daily not weekly. Stick to the Ramble, totally. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A turnaround in fortunes with Manchester United saw Maguire earn a first international call-up in 18 months in March.

THE AT&T Stadium in Dallas will host nine World Cup matches - including England’s opener against Croatia. The Three Lions face their old bogey team on June 17 before their games against Ghana in Boston and Panama in New Jersey.  Like California, Texas has two host venues for the World Cup, with Houston’s NRG Stadium...

With 104 games to navigate, World Cup 2026 is going to require some serious organisation even for supporters – we've got you covered

With 104 games to navigate, World Cup 2026 is going to require some serious organisation even for supporters – we've got you covered

With 104 games to navigate, World Cup 2026 is going to require some serious organisation even for supporters – we've got you covered

With 104 games to navigate, World Cup 2026 is going to require some serious organisation even for supporters – we've got you covered

With 104 games to navigate, World Cup 2026 is going to require some serious organisation even for supporters – we've got you covered

With 104 games to navigate, World Cup 2026 is going to require some serious organisation even for supporters – we've got you covered

With 104 games to navigate, World Cup 2026 is going to require some serious organisation even for supporters – we've got you covered

With 104 games to navigate, World Cup 2026 is going to require some serious organisation even for supporters – we've got you covered

With 104 games to navigate, World Cup 2026 is going to require some serious organisation even for supporters – we've got you covered

With 104 games to navigate, World Cup 2026 is going to require some serious organisation even for supporters – we've got you covered

With 104 games to navigate, World Cup 2026 is going to require some serious organisation even for supporters – we've got you covered

With 104 games to navigate, World Cup 2026 is going to require some serious organisation even for supporters – we've got you covered

Paulinho’s hat-trick propelled Toluca to a 4-2 win over LA Galaxy in the first leg of their Champions Cup quarter-final tie. The 33-year-old featured for Portugal in last month’s international break, and did his chances of making Roberto Martinez’s World Cup squad no harm with a superb showing on Wednesday. Nicolas Castro put Toluca ahead […] The post Toluca 4-2 LA Galaxy: Paulinho hat-trick seals first-leg advantage appeared first on Soccer News.

What to expect when visiting a stadium central to Texan sporting life as it prepares to host World Cup games in Groups E, F, K and H

Take it from someone who has been there: The road to recovery may be long, but with support around you, it's just a setback, not an ending

Alexi Lalas and David Mosse are back with a new episode of State of the Union! With the news becoming official that Patrick Agyemang will miss the World Cup with an Achilles injury, Alexi and Mosse discuss what that means for the US roster this summer and what strikers could step up and step in for the injured Agyemang. After, the pair break down all the happenings from the first leg of the UCL quarterfinals, including PSG dominating Liverpool, Bayern beating Real Madrid away, Arsenal winning late, and Atletico Madrid seeing off Barcelona. In U.S. Abroad, Alexi asks if it is time for Christian Pulisic to leave AC Milan in the wake of his poor form. Alexi and Mosse then preview the upcoming MLS weekend matches that will see Messi and Inter Miami host Michael Bradley’s NYRB and old rivals New England DC facing off once more. In #AskAlexi, Alexi recounts his favorite trash talk moments and gives a full postmortem for Italy missing the World Cup and in One For The Road, Alexi and Mosse discuss negativity within the USA fanbase and tease a giveaway. Presented by Zillow #Zillow Patrick Agyemang OUT for the World Cup (5:11)UCL Quarterfinal first leg recap (11:43)Should Pulisic leave AC Milan? (24:38)MLS Weekend Preview (31:50)#AskAlexi (42:39)One for the Road (53:32) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

World Cup 2026 tickets hit the official resale site, with the top ticket for the final going for nearly £140,000

Mikel Arteta has been told Arsenal 'might have won the Premier League already' had they signed a £26m striker instead of Viktor Gyokeres.

There are no camps before the U.S. names its World Cup roster, so what does coach Mauricio Pochettino need?

News that World Cup squads will be picked from an initial pool of 55 players may have come as a boost to those dreaming of gatecrashing the Scotland party for this summer's tournament.