World Cup News

Andoni Iraola reacting after Bournemouth defeated Newcastle United 2-1 at St James’ Park. The Cherries moving into the top eight in the Premier League. Andoni Iraola hoping to end his... You can click here to read the full article.

Eddie Howe watched on as his Newcastle United team lost 2-1 to Bournemouth. This made it three Premier League defeats in a row for United. Tavernier giving Bournemouth the lead... You can click here to read the full article.

Newcastle 1 Bournemouth 2 – Saturday 18 April 2026 3pm Instant fan/writer reaction from some of our regular contributors on The Mag. Nat Seaton: ‘Beaten by a better team who... You can click here to read the full article.

As the final whistle blew on Sunday 25th January there was relief, passion and a very happy fanbase. Genoa came back from 2-0 down at home to Bologna in a crazy game, Bologna had goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski sent off for a final man challenge. That red card changed the complexion of the game. Just over… The post Genoa CFC Flourishing Under Daniele De Rossi first appeared on Breaking The Lines.

Juventus have added Mateo Retegui to its summer shortlist in recent weeks as the club looks to bring another… The post Juventus could change their mind about Italian striker appeared first on Juvefc.com.

The confirmed Newcastle United team v Bournemouth has now been announced. Eddie Howe’s side hoping to bounce back to winning form. Premier League victories over Manchester United and Chelsea. Then... You can click here to read the full article.

Welcome to the Newcastle United v Bournemouth preview. Saturday 18th April with a 3pm kick-off. The Toon return to St James’ Park this weekend after a four-week absence, looking to... You can click here to read the full article.

By: Ben Dixon Adrien Rabiot has been one of the biggest talismen for AC Milan this season. Without him, there is a noticeable difference and he will remain at the club. In recent seasons, the title of being ‘Mr. Reliable’ has floated around a few players. Most recently, it was probably Christian Pulisic. However, he has also fallen […] The post Schira states Rabiot turned down ‘amazing’ offer from Saudi Arabia recently: “Satisfied with Milan” appeared first on SempreMilan.

Some interesting comments from this BBC Sport pundit on Eddie Howe and Newcastle United. Chris Sutton speaking as United prepare for their 53rd match of the season. Bournemouth the visitors... You can click here to read the full article.

Eddie Howe has issued an emotional rallying call to Newcastle United fans pre-match. This is ahead of Bournemouth at St James’ Park. Match number 53 of the season for Newcastle... You can click here to read the full article.

Evanilson has been talking ahead of Bournemouth travelling to face Newcastle United. The Cherries striker and his teammates buoyant after last weekend. After no wins in their last five Premier... You can click here to read the full article.

Salta la panchina dell'erede di Roberto Mancini.

Renard, a two-time Africa Cup of Nations winner with Zambia and Ivory Coast, led Saudi Arabia from 2019 to 2023 before being replaced by Roberto Mancini

Saudi Arabia fired head coach Herve Renard on Friday, less than two months before the World Cup.

Saudi Arabia fire coach Renard 2 months before World Cup espn.in

SAUDI ARABIA have sacked head coach Herve Renard, just as the nation prepares to kick off its 2026 World Cup campaign. The decision comes two months before the 2026 showpiece gets underway in North America. Renard, 57, confirmed he had been relieved of his duties as Saudi Arabia national football team manager with immediate effect....

Saudi Arabia, one of Spain’s rivals at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, have decided to part ways with head coach Herve Renard. Despite the short time remaining before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, some national teams are still making abrupt structural changes in an effort to arrive in peak condition. Saudi Arabia have dismissed Herve Renard, a move that will impact Spain’s preparations. “Saudi Arabia sack head coach Herve Renard with immediate effect before World Cup,” reported Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano on Friday via his official X account. According to reports, the decision stems from the national team’s disappointing recent results, which raised concerns ahead of the tournament. This development not only forces a logical shift in Saudi Arabia’s own planning—now requiring a rapid adjustment under a new manager with just two months before competition begins in North America—but also triggers a strategic rethink for at least three other national teams. Spain, Uruguay, and Cape Verde were drawn alongside Saudi Arabia in Group H of the World Cup, and their respective managers have spent months preparing to face those opponents based on the playing styles each side had developed. That preparation may now need to be revised. 🚨 OFFICIAL: Saudi Arabia sack head coach Hervé Renard with immediate effect before World Cup! 👋🏼🇸🇦 Renard had returned for a second spell as Saudi coach at the end of 2024. pic.twitter.com/yhwU0OMAkS — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 17, 2026 Now, with such a sudden managerial change and virtually no time for formal testing before the tournament begins, Saudi Arabia become something of an unknown for the rest of the group. They will open their campaign on June 15 against Uruguay in Miami, face Spain six days later, and close out the group stage against Cape Verde on June 26. Renard unable to replicate previous success with Saudi Arabia Herve Renard had been serving as Saudi Arabia’s head coach since 2024, marking his second spell in charge of the national team. His previous tenure, from 2019 to 2023, brought global recognition after Saudi Arabia’s stunning victory over Argentina in their opening match of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. However, his return did not produce similar results. Both performances and outcomes were underwhelming, and the March international break proved crucial in the Saudi federation’s decision to move on. During that window, the team faced Egypt and Serbia, suffering defeats in both matches: a 4-0 loss to the Africans and a 2-1 defeat to the Europeans. Renard’s likely replacement With the World Cup fast approaching, Saudi Arabia are under pressure to appoint a replacement quickly—and that process already appears to be underway. “Expectation is Georgios Donis leads Saudi Arabia at the 2026 World Cup on a one-year contract,” Ben Jacobs reported on X, in a claim echoed by other outlets such as Diario AS. Expectation is Georgios Donis leads Saudi Arabia at the 2026 World Cup on a one-year contract. Donis set to join from Al-Khaleej and also be in charge for the 2026 Arabian Gulf Cup and 2027 Asian Cup as part of a proposed one-year contract.🇸🇦 https://t.co/x3jxt9y19n — Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) April 17, 2026 Georgios Donis is a 56-year-old Greek manager with extensive experience in Saudi Arabian soccer. He has coached five clubs in the country, with his most recent role at Al-Khaleej, where his team currently sits 11th in the Saudi Pro League standings. This will be Donis’ first experience at the international level.

Around the world, here are the channels you can watch Newcastle United v Bournemouth Live TV. The global TV listings are featured below for local (to you) coverage on Saturday... You can click here to read the full article.

⚽ Fixtures | Latest tables | Premier League top scorers ⚽ Premier League: 10 things to look out for | Mail Taha Liverpool boss Arne Slot has been speaking ahead of Sunday’s Merseyside derby. Here he is on Hugo Ekitike’s Achilles tendon injury which has ruled the Frenchman out for the rest of the season and this summer’s World Cup. He hasn’t been operated on yet. Devastating for him coming to a new club having so much impact straight away. Playing against your former club in the Champions League quarter-final with so much to come for him in the summer. My first thoughts are with him being out for such a long time, missing out on so many special moments. But it is not the first and not the last player who experienced something like this at the start of their career, and there are so many examples of players coming back even stronger.

The 57-year-old had been in charge of the national team for around six years in total, across two different spells.

Mohamed Salah could be forced to lower his salary expectations this summer if he wants a move to Saudi Arabia

Frenchman Herve Renard, who won AFCON with Zambia and Ivory Coast, departs Saudi role despite World Cup qualification.

Renard returned for a second spell as Saudi coach at the end of 2024, having led it at the last World Cup in Qatar, including to a famous win over eventual champion Argentina in the group stage.

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah could reportedly have to reduce his salary expectations if he wants to pursue a move to Saudi Arabia.

The departure of Mike Ashley meant the return of Wor Flags to matches, as they ended their boycott over four years ago now. The pre-match flag displays once again becoming... You can click here to read the full article.

By: Isak Möller Robert Lewandowski is an option for AC Milan in the summer, and as a report claims, the Rossoneri are currently evaluating if that option is feasible. It feels like we say it every season, but Milan’s biggest problem this campaign has been finding the back of the net. Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic have been […] The post Romano: Milan ‘trying to understand’ as Lewandowski is ‘not happy’ with Barca offer appeared first on SempreMilan.

The Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) has sold a 70% stake in Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal to Kingdom Holding Company.

With Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema both central figures in this evolving landscape, a new chapter appears to be unfolding behind the scenes at the highest level of the game. The future of club ownership in Saudi soccer is shifting quickly, and the ripple effects are already being felt around some of the league’s biggest names. With Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema both central figures in this evolving landscape, a new chapter appears to be unfolding behind the scenes at the highest level of the game. The turning point came when Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) made a decisive move regarding one of its flagship clubs. Al-Hilal has now seen its ownership structure transformed after a majority stake was sold to Kingdom Holding Company, a firm led by a prominent Saudi investor. The deal valued the club at approximately $373 million, signaling both confidence in the league’s growth and a willingness to shift toward private ownership. In a statement, the new ownership emphasized the broader vision behind the move. “Al-Hilal is a national symbol and a source of pride for the Saudi people,” the statement read. “This acquisition expresses our deep belief in the power of sports as a unifying force and a catalyst for national development.” The message was clear: soccer in Saudi Arabia is entering a new phase, one driven by strategic investment and long-term sustainability. Stepping Into a New Chapter of Glory 💙 pic.twitter.com/zya4Au7XRB — AlHilal Saudi Club (@Alhilal_EN) April 16, 2026 Cristiano Ronaldo’s club could be next While the spotlight initially fell on Karim Benzema’s new environment, attention quickly turned toward Cristiano Ronaldo’s club. Behind the scenes, discussions have reportedly begun over a similar restructuring process. According to Sportksanet, it has emerged that there is a plan to sell up to 50% of Al-Nassr’s shares to external investors, including a mix of international companies and Saudi businessmen. This potential move would mark another major shift in how top clubs in the league are operated and financed. Such a transition could redefine the club’s future, especially given Ronaldo’s global influence and the commercial weight he brings. Why PIF is changing strategy The reasoning behind these decisions lies in a wider economic vision, as per journalist Abdulkarim Al-Zamil. PIF has played a central role in transforming the Saudi Pro League, injecting funds that helped attract global stars and elevate the competition’s profile. PIF and Kingdom Holding Company’s representatives arrange deal over Al Hilal. Now, the focus appears to be on maximizing returns and redistributing capital within the domestic economy, while encouraging private sector involvement. In an official explanation, the fund outlined its long-term intentions. “The sale aligns with PIF’s strategy to maximise returns and redeploy capital within the domestic economy,” the statement noted. “PIF is unlocking opportunities to make a transformative impact in the Saudi sports sector and deliver positive, long-term results.” What does it mean for the league? These ownership changes could have far-reaching consequences for the league as a whole. Clubs transitioning to private ownership may gain greater flexibility in decision-making, particularly in transfers and commercial partnerships. Cristiano Ronaldo of team Al Nassr At the same time, the presence of global stars like Cristiano Ronaldo ensures that any structural change will be closely watched. His influence extends beyond the pitch, making Al-Nassr one of the most visible clubs in world soccer. For Al-Hilal, now linked with Karim Benzema, the new ownership could open doors to different investment strategies and partnerships. That, in turn, may reshape competition within the league as clubs adapt to new financial realities.

Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund announced Thursday the sale of its majority stake in Saudi Pro League football club Al-Hilal, where French striker Karim Benzema plays. The PIF, which also owns English Premier League side Newcastle United, sold 70 percent of Al-Hilal to Kingdom Holding Company (KHC), the firm run by Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, […] The post Saudi wealth fund sells football club Al-Hilal appeared first on Soccer America.

PIF has changed his involvement in soccer by completing the sell of Al Hilal to their new owners, a situation Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr are watching closely. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has taken significant new steps toward the privatization of Saudi Arabian soccer clubs. As Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr watch the next moves closely, the PIF has officially announced the sale of Al Hilal to a new ownership group. In a press release issued on April 16, the PIF announced an agreement with Kingdom Holding Company (KHC) for the acquisition of a 70% stake in Al Hilal Club Company. The firm, led by Prince Al Waleed bin Talal Al Saud, will now serve as the club’s majority owner, while the PIF retains a 5% interest in the share capital. As a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s “Sports Clubs Investment and Privatization Project,” the PIF became the majority shareholder of Al Hilal, alongside Ronaldo’s Al Nassr, Al Ahli, and Al Ittihad, in July 2023. This initial investment was designed to accelerate club growth and increase the sports sector’s overall contribution to the Saudi GDP. A new strategy is now taking shape with the completion of the first of these four sales, as the PIF seeks to maximize returns and redeploy capital within the domestic economy. This gradual exit from majority ownership aims to guide the clubs toward financial sustainability while the PIF maintains a role as a minority shareholder or strategic partner. PIF and Kingdom Holding Company’s representatives arrange deal over Al Hilal. In a statement released on PIF’s website, KHC Chairman Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud reflected on the landmark deal: “Al-Hilal is a national symbol and a source of pride for the Saudi people. This acquisition expresses our deep belief in the power of sports as a unifying force and a catalyst for national development. By applying our global investment standards and cultivating strategic partnerships, we will unlock Al-Hilal’s full potential while preserving its history and identity.“ Al Nassr, Al Ahli, and Al Ittihad up next Al Hilal represents only the first phase of this divestment process. Following this precedent, the PIF will move forward with the sales of Al Nassr, Al Ittihad, and Al Ahli, seeking suitable suitors to continue the clubs’ professional development. Reports have already revealed that, alongside a new contract signed in June 2025, Cristiano Ronaldo acquired a 15% ownership stake in Al Nassr valued at £50 million (approximately $66.7 million). As the PIF actively pursues new majority owners for the club, the Portuguese legend is positioned to assume an even more significant role in the organization. According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Al Nassr is encouraging Ronaldo to increase his equity, further deepening his ties to the Saudi side’s ownership structure. With club sales expected to be phased over the coming years, the soccer icon could see his influence grow significantly in the near future.

As the final whistle blew on Sunday 25th January there was relief, passion and a very happy fanbase. Genoa came back from 2-0 down at home to Bologna in a crazy game, Bologna had goalkeeper Lukasz Skorupski sent off for a final man challenge. That red card changed the complexion of the game. Just over… The post Genoa CFC Flourishing Under Daniele De Rossi first appeared on Breaking The Lines.

By: Oliver Fisher One thing is clear heading into the summer for AC Milan: a top-notch striker is wanted, if a return to the Champions League is secured. As La Gazzetta dello Sport (seen below) report, while Dusan Vlahovic is an idea that is back in fashion, the name of Robert Lewandowski remains a strong presence in the […] The post GdS: Barcelona star and Chelsea loanee on Milan’s list of Vlahovic alternatives appeared first on SempreMilan.

The 46-year-old is continuing to plan for the transfer window as Liverpool look to add three or four new players to revamp their squad.

By: Oliver Fisher AC Milan have several players out on loan at the moment, but two midfielders are almost certain to return once the season ends. La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that the potential €100m or more in takings from loan deals with permanent clauses is set to dwindle. Ismael Bennacer and Yunus Musah will not be bought […] The post GdS: €40m up in smoke – Milan left with headache as midfield duo will return appeared first on SempreMilan.

Ai Mondiali disputati in Qatar, il capitano dell'Argentina ha superato le aspettative per immortalare la sua eredità nell'unico modo che gli mancava.

Stu Holden is BACK and joins David Mosse for a new episode of State of the Union. On this show, the duo reacts to Matt Crocker leaving U.S. Soccer for a leadership role with Saudi Arabia so soon before the World Cup. After, Stu and Mosse recap a WILD Champions League week that saw Bayern, PSG, Arsenal, and Atletico Madrid advance to the semi-finals. Stu asks if Mbappé is the best player in the world despite Real's loss and gives his pick for the UCL winner. Back stateside, Nashville made history by becoming the first MLS side to win in the mighty Azteca in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, knocking off Club America. In #AskAlexi, Stu and Mosse debate if Mexico or the U.S. utilize their domestic league better and in One for the Road, the guys dive into the sudden departure of Inter Miami boss Javier Mascherano. Presented by Zillow #Zillow Chapters: (1:36) Stu's Reaction to Matt Crocker leaving U.S. Soccer (6:34) The UCL semifinals are set (29:31) U.S. abroad weekend preview (35:25) Nashville SC pulls off historic CCC upset (45:32) #AskAlexi (56:41) One for the Road #StateOfTheUnion Subscribe to get the latest from Alexi Lalas' State of the Union: http://sprtspod.fox/SUBSCRIBEtoSOTU Listen to Alexi Lalas' State of the Union on Apple Podcasts: http://sprtspod.fox/sotu Follow SOTU on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SOTUWithAlexi Follow SOTU on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sotuwithalexi/ Follow SOTU on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sotuwithalexi Like SOTU on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SOTUWithAlexi About Alexi Lalas' State of the Union Podcast: U.S. Soccer legend Alexi Lalas discusses the biggest stories in the world of soccer from an American perspective. Join Alexi and soccer guru David Mosse, as they break down the USMNT, USWNT, MLS, Bundesliga, Premier League, World Cup & everything in between. Mbappé over Yamal, Epic UCL night and MLS vs Liga MX with Stu Holden www.youtube.com/@StateOfTheUnion

U.S. Soccer sporting director Matt Crocker has officially stepped down from his role, and while it won’t have too much affect on the upcoming FIFA World Cup in North America, the optics are negative no matter which way you look at it. Crocker is reportedly set to take up a similar role with the Saudi ... Read more

Marcus Thuram has returned to form after his very slow winter had fueled some chatter about his Inter future, while Alessandro Bastoni is struggling to bounce back from the Pierre Kalulu incident and his gaffe in the World Cup playoff. The post Recent Showings Changing the Future of Two Inter Stars appeared first on The Cult of Calcio.

Former Inter Milan manager Simone Inzaghi could reportedly replace Gennaro Gattuso as a new head coach of the Italy national team. According to Tuttosport via FCInterNews, the current Al-Hilal boss is in contention for the Azzurri job amid an uncertain future in Riyadh. Simone Inzaghi left Inter to take charge of the Saudi Pro League […] The post Report – Ex Inter Milan Manager Considered As Potential Gennaro Gattuso Successor As Italy National Team Coach appeared first on SempreInter.com.

U.S. Soccer's sporting director is headed for Saudi Arabia. This is what it means for the federation – and what comes next at a pivotal time

The federation sporting director's sudden defection to Saudi Arabia comes with bad optics on the cusp of a home World Cup

Let's answer the four biggest questions following Matt Crocker's decision to step down as U.S. Soccer's sporting director.

Alexi Lalas weighs in on Matt Crocker's leaving U.S. Soccer for Saudi Arabia months before the World Cup.

Alexi Lalas slams U.S. Soccer after Matt Crocker's departure for Saudi Arabia leaves the USMNT in limbo. Leer

Tom Bogert returns from paternity leave alongside Tab Ramos to break down the latest around the USMNT. They start with the shocking timing and fallout of Matt Crocker leaving his role as U.S. Soccer Sporting Director for a move to Saudi Arabia less than two months before the FIFA World Cup. Tab explains why he sees it as a troubling sign for the program, and why building a stronger culture is more important than ever. They discuss Christian Pulisic, should there be real concern about his recent form, or is the panic overblown? Tab also gives his predictions for the final World Cup roster under Mauricio Pochettino. Plus, Tom shares his first “new dad” story since returning to the show. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jimmy Conrad, Charlie Davies, and Tony Meola react to the bombshell news that Matt Crocker is leaving his role as U.S. Soccer's sporting director with immediate effect - right before the start of a home World Cup - to take a similar position with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation. The crew discuss the strange timing, potential candidates to fill the role, and the bad optics ahead of a pivotal time for the USMNT. In brighter news, Folarin Balogun can't stop scoring in Ligue 1. With the Monaco striker on a seven-game hot streak, what can Pochettino do to better unlock him? Plus, teenagers are tearing up MLS, and the presumptive big boys enter the U.S. Open Cup at the Round of 32 stage! Call It What You Want is available for free on the Audacy app as well as Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever else you listen to podcasts. Follow the Call It What You Want team on X:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@JimmyConrad⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @CharlieDavies9⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@TMeola1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit the ⁠betting arena on CBSSports.com⁠ for all the latest in ⁠sportsbook reviews⁠ and ⁠sportsbook promos⁠ for ⁠betting on soccer⁠ For more soccer coverage from CBS Sports, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/⁠ To hear more from the CBS Sports Podcast Network, visit ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/podcasts/⁠ Watch UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Europa Conference League, UEFA Women’s Champions League, EFL Championship, EFL League Cup, Carabao Cup, Serie A, Coppa Italia, CONCACAF Nations League, CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers, Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, NWSL, Scottish Premiership, AFC Champion League by subscribing to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Paramount+⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Visit the betting arena on CBS Sports.com: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/⁠ For all the latest in sportsbook reviews: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/⁠ And sportsbook promos: ⁠https://www.cbssports.com/betting/news/sportsbook-promos/ To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices