World Cup News

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the largest of its kind as it will be hosted over three countries for the first time in history, featuring 48 teams from the six football federations, an increase of 16 countries from the regular format of 32 nations that has been in place since 1998. The… The post Newcomers and Second Appearances: What to Expect in the 2026 World Cup first appeared on Breaking The Lines.

From Brazil to Qatar, what happens to the World Cup stadiums that became billion-dollar burdens after the final whistle?

World Cup host cities will be summer destinations for fans from all over the globe and official fan zones can be an event in their own right

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.

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.

Ghanaian winger Joseph Paintsil has opened up about his disappointment after being left out of Ghana’s squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.Speaking to VamosNetwork, the Los Angeles Galaxy star admitted that missing the tournament was one of the toughest moments of his career and revealed that former Black Stars head coach Otto Addo offered little explanation for the decision.“I was disappointed to miss the 2022 World Cup,” Paintsil said. “The coach told me there was no reason — only that I don’t defend. There was no tangible explanation.”Paintsil’s exclusion surprised many given his strong form at the time. Two years later, the 2024 MLS champion is using that setback as motivation to shine for both club and country.With Carlos Queiroz now in charge of the national team and Ghana preparing for the 2026 World Cup, Paintsil hopes to finally get his chance on football’s biggest stage.“I’m just focused on proving myself again. I want to play for Ghanaians and make them proud,” he added.

Lionel Messi has been announced as the new owner of Spanish club UE Cornella. The Argentinian football icon, widely regarded as the greatest player ever, has completed his acquisition of a side loc…

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the largest of its kind as it will be hosted over three countries for the first time in history, featuring 48 teams from the six football federations, an increase of 16 countries from the regular format of 32 nations that has been in place since 1998. The… The post Newcomers and Second Appearances: What to Expect in the 2026 World Cup first appeared on Breaking The Lines.

Approaching the last FIFA World Cup, the one in Qatar, much of the talk was surrounding it taking place in the middle of the European season, forcing domestic leagues to take a break and, possibly, fatiguing a bunch of the world’s best players. The winter World Cup was hugely controversial, but by the time it […] The post 2026 FIFA World Cup: The One With All the Money appeared first on The Blizzard.

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

Inter Milan veteran Stefan de Vrij is reportedly at risk of missing out on his transfer to Qatari side Al-Sadd this summer. According to L’Interista, Al-Sadd could sever ties with former Nerazzurri manager Roberto Mancini in the coming weeks. Mancini was one of the reasons why Stefan de Vrij had considered continuing his career in […] The post Report – Inter Milan Veteran At Risk Of Missing Out On Al-Sadd Transfer appeared first on SempreInter.com.

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

FIFA High-Performance Specialist Faisal Chibsah has underlined that Carlos Queiroz’s prospects of success with the Black Stars will depend largely on how quickly he adapts.The Portuguese coach, appointed on a short-term four-month deal, has been tasked with steadying Ghana’s preparations for the World Cup following the dismissal of Otto Addo after a string of four consecutive friendly defeats.With limited time before the expanded tournament begins, attention has turned to whether Queiroz can impose his methods effectively in such a compressed window.Chibsah, while acknowledging the pedigree of the 73-year-old former Real Madrid and Portugal coach, stressed that reputation alone will not guarantee results unless he adjusts to the specific realities of the Black Stars environment.“He will bring a bit of discipline to the team, which for me was lacking a lot. We would see [discipline] and also [Ghana would] definitely get an identity.”“The challenge for Carlos now would be how adaptable he can be taking on Ghana.”“Iran, Oman, Qatar [recent jobs of Queiroz] are not Ghana. Ghana, we expect more.”Ghana are aiming to reach the World Cup knockout stages for the first time since 2010, with Group L fixtures against England, Croatia and Panama...

FIFA High-Performance Specialist Faisal Chibsah believes Ghana’s decision to appoint Carlos Queiroz could mark a decisive shift in the Black Stars’ direction, particularly in restoring structure and discipline ahead of the World Cup.Otto Addo was dismissed after a difficult run of four consecutive defeats in international friendlies, leaving the federation to act swiftly with just months remaining before the expanded 48-team tournament.The former Portugal and Egypt coach has been handed a short-term four-month contract to stabilise the team and guide them through the global showpiece.Chibsah expressed optimism about the impact the 73-year-old could have on the squad’s mentality and organisation, while also stressing the demands that come with managing Ghana at this level.“He will bring a bit of discipline to the team, which for me was lacking a lot. We would see [discipline] and also [Ghana would] definitely get an identity,” Chibsah told Joy News.“The challenge for Carlos now would be how adaptable he can be taking on Ghana.”“Iran, Oman, Qatar [recent jobs of Queiroz] are not Ghana. Ghana, we expect more.”Ghana head into the World Cup with ambitions of reaching the knockout stages for the first time since 2010, with Group L...

The road to the 2026 World Cup was always expected to test France in new ways, but few imagined that Hugo Ekitike would become the center of a devastating late setback just weeks before the tournament. The road to the 2026 World Cup was always expected to test France in new ways, but few imagined that Hugo Ekitike would become the center of a devastating late setback just weeks before the tournament. France will enter driven by the scars of the 2022 final, where it fell short in a dramatic clash that still lingers in memory. Ranked third in the world and placed on a favorable path in the bracket, the national team once again looks like a serious contender aiming for a third world title. With stars like 2018 World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe and 2025 Ballon d’Or winner Ousmane Dembele leading the charge, belief inside the camp remains strong. The national team arrives with a blend of experience and attacking firepower that few can match. N’Golo Kante has returned to orchestrate play from midfield, while the defensive core brings years of elite European experience into the tournament. This generation believes it has unfinished business on the world stage, especially after coming so close in Qatar. That confidence has now been shaken by a major setback. Ekitike suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon during a Champions League clash between Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain, an injury that immediately raised fears about his availability. PSG maçında aşil tendonu kopan Hugo Ekitike, 9 ay formasından uzak kalacak. (L’Equipe)pic.twitter.com/QJm8QTjNZh — Meritking News TR (@mknewstr) April 15, 2026 The devastating blow confirmed The uncertainty surrounding the striker has soon turned into confirmation of the worst possible outcome. “Carried off on a stretcher… Hugo Ekitike suffered a rupture of his right Achilles tendon,” reported L’Equipe, leaving little room for optimism. As per the report, the injury immediately rules him out of the 2026 World Cup and potentially sidelines him for seven to nine months. The incident occurred during a high-stakes clash between Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain, where the striker collapsed without contact. “It doesn’t look good for Hugo. It’s especially difficult for him because you never want to get injured, especially at this time of the season,” admitted the Reds’ boss Arne Slot, reflecting the mood inside the club. What this means for France’s tactical setup France’s attacking structure has been one of its greatest strengths, blending pace, creativity, and finishing quality. Ekitike had emerged as a valuable option, contributing 17 goals in 45 appearances at club level and earning his place in the national team setup. His absence forces the coaching staff to rethink rotations and attacking combinations ahead of the tournament. Hugo Ekitike of Liverpool holds his ankle as he appears to be injured Despite the setback, France still enters the competition with strong depth and experience. The team remains on a favorable path in the tournament draw, avoiding early clashes with giants like Spain and Argentina. However, maintaining squad fitness and adapting to injuries will now be even more critical for Didier Deschamps and his squad. Who steps into the spotlight? Since it’s safe to say that Ekitike is officially ruled out, attention now turns to who could fill the void in the national team. According to Le Parisien, Randal Kolo Muani has emerged as the leading candidate to take his place, largely due to the trust he maintains within the coaching staff. His international experience could prove decisive despite mixed club form. Randal Kolo Muani of France controls the ball Other options remain firmly in contention. Christopher Nkunku offers versatility and technical quality, while Jean-Philippe Mateta has impressed with his efficiency in limited appearances for the national team. Each brings a different profile, leaving the final decision open as the tournament approaches.

The league’s emphasis on youth development has seen its place in the careers of US national team players shift dramatically Sign up for the World Behind The Cup newsletter When the United States men’s national team traveled to France for the 1998 World Cup, they did so with 16 Major League Soccer players on their 22-man roster. This was very much by design. MLS had kicked off in 1996 as a fulfilled promise made to Fifa by US Soccer for the right to host the 1994 World Cup. The new league then set about hoarding as many national team players as it could. In a winless and mirthless tournament in 1998, fraught by a fractious camp, the Americans started an MLS player 21 times in their three group-stage matches, for an average of seven per starting lineup. That number has trended down ever since. In the 2002 run to the World Cup quarter-finals, setting the program’s modern high-water mark, an average of 5.4 MLS players made a start in the USA’s five matches. In 2006, it was 3.33. By 2010, that number had sunk to two; and in 2022, it was only one. In Qatar, the USMNT’s final group stage match against Iran was, in fact, the first time the team had started no MLS players at all at a World Cup since the league’s founding.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has confirmed that newly appointed Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz will soon arrive in the country for his official unveiling.GFA Communications Director Henry Asante Twum disclosed that the experienced Portuguese tactician is expected in the coming days, where he will formally present his vision for the senior national team.Queiroz, who has previously managed Egypt, Colombia and Oman, has been handed a short-term deal to lead Ghana into the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.The 73-year-old takes over from Otto Addo, who was relieved of his duties in March following back-to-back friendly defeats to Austria and Germany.Speaking on Asempa FM, Asante Twum outlined plans for the coach’s introduction, stressing that the unveiling will offer the public and media an opportunity to hear directly from Queiroz.“In the next few days, Carlos Queiroz will arrive in Ghana to be properly unveiled, where he will personally tell us his plans and his expectations, and his ambitions for the team," he said.“We have only made his statement to us public, but he will be unveiled and made available to the press to answer questions, and then we will make progress from there,”...

Brazil former star Filipe Luis highlighted the importance of Carlo Ancelotti at this crucial moment. With two months to go before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Brazil are hopeful that Carlo Ancelotti can provide the national team with a tactical identity that allows them to compete for the title in North America. Filipe Luis expressed confidence that the Italian coach will get the job done in time. “Ancelotti brings us many good things,” Filipe Luis said during a conference organized by Conmebol this week, according to Diario AS. “There are no guarantees we’ll win anything, but it’s the best that could have happened.” The former Atletico Madrid defender pointed to the timing of Ancelotti’s arrival to take over the national team. In mid-2025, Brazil were coming off a heavy loss to Argentina in Buenos Aires and, with four matches remaining in the South American qualifiers, had not yet secured their place in the World Cup. Carlo Ancelotti delivered the results needed to achieve that goal and has since used every FIFA break to shape a team that had struggled to meet expectations since the departure of Tite after the 2022 World Cup at Qatar. Vinicius Junior is subbed off by Carlo Ancelotti, Head Coach of Brazil. Filipe Luis believes in Brazil’s chances The general consensus among fans and analysts lists Spain, France and Argentina as the top favorites to win the 2026 World Cup. Despite being the most successful national team in the competition’s history, Brazil are not placed in that top tier, but rather in a second group alongside other powerhouses such as Germany, England and Portugal. However, Filipe Luis warned those who might count Brazil out of the title race. “Brazil will always be one of the favorites, even when things aren’t going well,” said the former Flamengo manager, extending that view to Argentina as well. To support his confidence in Ancelotti’s squad, Filipe Luis pointed to the team’s individual talent: “People don’t believe Brazil can win. But if you look at the five best players in the world, we have two: Raphinha and Vini Jr.” Brazil’s path in the 2026 World Cup Brazil are in Group C of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They will open their campaign on June 13 against Morocco at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, before traveling to Philadelphia six days later to face Haiti. Their final group-stage match will be on June 24 in Miami against Scotland. If everything goes as expected and Carlo Ancelotti’s side finish top of the group, they will advance to the Round of 16, where they would face the runner-up of Group F — made up of Netherlands, Japan, Sweden and Tunisia — in Houston on June 29.

Nearly one in five UK adults plan to place a sports bet in 2026, according to an OLBG survey conducted by YouGov. The FIFA World Cup, kicking off this June across the USA, Canada and Mexico, is the most anticipated sporting event of the year, drawing interest from 34% of the British public. For football […] The post Beyond the Pitch: How Football Fans Are Engaging With the Game Off-Season appeared first on Fan Banter.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has offered an explanation for why Carlos Queiroz was appointed as the new head coach of the Black Stars. The 72-year-old has been confirmed as the new head coach for the senior national team on a short-term deal ahead of the 2026 World Cup.The former Egypt head coach has replaced Otto Addo, who was sacked after Black Stars' inconsistent performances ahead of the Mundial despite guiding the team to qualify for the Mundial slated for this summer in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.Reportedly, Pitso Mosimane, Kwesi Appiah, Paulo Bento, among other coaches, were all linked to the coach.Speaking to Asempa FM, the Communications Director of the GFA, Henry Asante Twum, explained why the former Real Madrid head coach was appointed."Carlos Queiroz provided a detailed analysis of his observations of the Black Stars, from their AFCON qualification failure to World Cup qualification," he said."He showed strong knowledge of the team’s player profiles and outlined how he intends to guide the Black Stars’ progress from the group stage at the World Cup," Asante Twum added.Queiroz will meet the Black Stars squad next month during their international friendly against Mexico, before concluding...

Communications Director of Ghana Football Association (GFA), Henry Asante Twum, has hinted that the FA will review the performance of Carlos Queiroz after the 2026 World Cup. The veteran Portuguese trainer has been appointed on a short-term basis, replacing Otto Addo, who was sacked after the back-to-back defeats against Austria and Germany in a pre-World Cup friendly game.With the former Egypt and Iran head coach set to lead the Black Stars to the Mundial, Asante Twum has revealed that his performance will be reviewed after the tournament in the USA, Canada and Mexico."Carlos Queiroz to lead the Black Stars until the end of the World Cup. After that, the FA will review how things turn out and decide whether to keep him or part ways," he told Asempa FM.Asante Twum also hinted that the 72-year-old has already started working."Carlos Queiroz has already begun work on the Black Stars and is expected in Ghana in the coming days," Asante Twum added.Queiroz will meet the Black Stars squad next month during their international friendly against Mexico, before concluding preparations with a final tune-up match against Wales on June 2.Ghana, preparing for its fifth World Cup appearance,...

Ghana have appointed Carlos Queiroz as manager for their 2026 World Cup campaign. The Black Stars will face England, Panama and Croatia in group L at this summer’s tournament. Queiroz has bee…

The Ghana Football Association has appointed Carlos Queiroz as head coach of the senior national team, the Black Stars. The former Real Madrid, Manchester United, Portugal, and Iran coach will lead Ghana’s campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Queiroz boasts an extensive World Cup pedigree. He [...] The post Carlos Queiroz appointed Black Stars head coach for 2026 FIFA World Cup first appeared on Sahara Football.

With the 2026 MLS season already underway, questions are being raised about when Argentina and Inter Miami star Lionel Messi will play his next game. Lionel Messi is still making history at 38 years old, remaining a cornerstone and captain for both Inter Miami and the Argentina national team. With the 2026 Major League Soccer season now underway, fans are wondering when they’ll see the forward back in action. Lionel Messi’s next match with Inter Miami is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, when the Herons will be visiting the Colorado Rapids in the MLS at the Empower Field at Mile High. He heads into the fixture after a 2-2 draw at the Nu Stadium against New York Red Bulls. As for international duty with Argentina national team, Lionel Messi is set to return to action during the June international window. Before the World Cup gets underway, the Albiceleste will be facing Honduras on June 6th, and Iceland on June 9, leaving Messi and company just one week to regroup before their tournament opener against Algeria on the 16th. The 2026 MLS campaign has just begun for Messi, who has featured in eight official matches so far across all competitions, scoring six times without registering an assist. The opener came against LAFC, who handed Inter Miami a 3-0 defeat in front of a packed crowd at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF during the MLS match against LAFC. Lionel Messi and the task of defending the World Cup title The year 2026 will be especially significant for Messi, not only because of Inter Miami’s ambitions but also because he’ll head into the 2026 World Cup aiming to defend the title. The triumph in Qatar in 2022 marked one of the defining peaks of his career, and now in North America he’ll enter another tournament wearing the champions’ badge for the first time. Drawn into Group J, Argentina will open its campaign against Algeria on Tuesday, June 16, in Kansas City at Arrowhead Stadium. The second match will be against Austria on Monday the 22nd in Arlington at AT&T Stadium, before closing the group stage against Jordan on Saturday the 27th, also in Texas. The Argentina FA has announced that the national team will base itself in Kansas City during the tournament, though training facilities have yet to be confirmed. Expected to be his final World Cup appearance, Messi will have a chance to add to his record haul with a squad coached by Lionel Scaloni that remains one of the strongest in international soccer after winning the last World Cup and back-to-back Copa América titles.

Cristiano Ronaldo has returned from injury and is fit to play for Al Nassr. Cristiano Ronaldo, even at 41 years old, remains a central figure for both his club, Al Nassr, and the Portugal national team. Still drawing global attention, the key question now is when the legendary striker will take the field again. Cristiano Ronaldo’s next game with Al Nassr is scheduled for Wednesday, April 15, when they’ll be hosting Al Ettifaq for Matchday 29 of the 2025-26 Saudi Pro League at Al Awwal Park. The Portuguese extended his goal tally netting the opener in the last 2-0 win against Al Okhdood. Regarding the Portugal national team, Cristiano Ronaldo is expected to return during the June international window. Before the World Cup gets underway, the Selecao will play two friendlies on home soil: the first against Chile on June 6 and the second against Nigeria on June 10. So far this season, the Portuguese icon has scored 25 goals and provided 4 assists in 28 games for Al Nassr, while netting 5 goals in 5 UEFA World Cup qualifiers for Portugal, with his personal account in 968 career goals. With the World Cup set for the USA, Canada, and Mexico at the end of the campaign, Ronaldo will be determined to arrive at what will likely be his final major tournament in top form. Cristiano Ronaldo of Al-Nassr FC scoring a bicycle kick. Ronaldo faced long break due to FIFA schedule After his stunning bicycle-kick goal against Al Khaleej, Cristiano Ronaldo was rested for Al Nassr’s midweek AFC Champions League Two match. But from that point forward, the Portuguese star endured a 24-day gap without competitive action, a result of the upcoming FIFA competition schedule. From December 1 through 18, Qatar hosted the second edition of the FIFA Arab Cup, with the final between Morocco and Jordan played at Lusail Stadium, the same venue as the 2022 World Cup final. With several Saudi Pro League players involved, including stars of the Saudi Arabian national team, clubs, including Al Nassr, were unable to meet domestic player requirements, forcing the SPL into a temporary pause during the tournament.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the largest of its kind as it will be hosted over three countries for the first time in history, featuring 48 teams from the six football federations, an increase of 16 countries from the regular format of 32 nations that has been in place since 1998. The… The post Newcomers and Second Appearances: What to Expect in the 2026 World Cup first appeared on Breaking The Lines.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is not just the biggest sporting event of the decade. For the online gambling industry, it is a structural inflection point — one that is reshaping betting markets, accelerating casino cross-sell strategies, minting millions of first-time bettors, and forcing operators to think… The post How the 2026 World Cup Is Shaping the Future of Football Betting and Online Casinos first appeared on Breaking The Lines.

Tottenham forward Richarlison has admitted he held several talks with Paris Saint-Germain over replacing Kylian Mbappe at the club. The 28-year-old revealed he was keen to link up with Neymar at cl…

As he remains sidelined by San Diego FC in MLS, Hirving Lozano now appears set to be left out of representing Mexico at the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a conversation with Javier Aguirre. A meeting between head coach Javier Aguirre and Hirving Lozano appears to have been decisive in leaving the Mexico forward all but out of contention for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, amid his ongoing conflict with San Diego FC in MLS. “There was a conversation between Javier Aguirre and Chucky Lozano a few months ago because of this whole situation he had in San Diego,” journalist Gibran Araige said this week on TUDN’s Insider. “Vasco told him: ‘Look, I’m interested in you, I have you on my radar for the World Cup, but I need you to play,’” the reporter continued, outlining the Mexico head coach’s stance. However, Lozano’s response was not encouraging: “Chucky said no.” Aguirre’s position appears reasonable. Hirving Lozano is a player with proven quality and experience at the European level, as well as a long track record with the Mexico national team. However, arriving at a World Cup after more than six months without playing time is difficult to justify. Hirving Lozano played 34 games for San Diego FC. That is why the coach’s intention was for Lozano to do everything possible to leave San Diego FC and find another club where he could secure playing time during this stretch. However, the player chose to prioritize honoring his contract, continue earning his high MLS salary, and potentially give up the chance to play in the World Cup with Mexico. What happened with Lozano at San Diego FC? Earlier this year, San Diego FC announced that Hirving Lozano would not be part of head coach Mikey Varas’ plans for the 2026 MLS season, citing issues related to “style of play” and “environment” as reasons behind the decision. The problems had begun months earlier during a match against Houston Dynamo, when Lozano was substituted at halftime and, according to The Athletic, had a verbal altercation with Varas that led to him being sidelined for a couple of matches. Although Hirving Lozano was later reinstated and played four more matches for San Diego FC during the MLS playoffs, at the start of the new season the coaching staff and club executives opted to leave the forward out of their plans moving forward. Mexico lose a key piece Hirving Lozano has been one of Mexico’s standout players in recent years. Alongside his European career with PSV Eindhoven and Napoli, he has been a regular presence in the national team over the past decade. The forward has appeared in two World Cups. At Russia 2018, he started all four matches for Mexico and scored the winning goal in a 1-0 victory over Germany, one of the most significant results in the history of the national team. At Qatar 2022, he also started all three matches, underscoring his importance over time. Now, with his participation in the 2026 World Cup nearly ruled out, Lozano leaves a significant void in the Mexico national team, even if his recent involvement has already been limited due to injuries and coaching decisions.

Giovani Lo Celso, a key teammate of Lionel Messi with Argentina, is back from a lengthy injury just two months ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In recent weeks, the news has not been positive for Argentina, with several players sidelined by injuries in the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, Giovani Lo Celso is the exception, returning after an extended spell on the sidelines with the goal of joining Lionel Messi in North America this summer. Lo Celso was included in the 24-man squad selected by head coach Manuel Pellegrini for Real Betis’ match on Sunday against Osasuna in Pamplona. The call-up marks the midfielder’s return following a prolonged absence due to a muscle injury. Gio’s last appearance came on January 22, when he played just six minutes in a UEFA Europa League clash against PAOK before suffering a significant tear in the rectus femoris of his right thigh that forced him to leave the match. If he sees minutes against Osasuna this Sunday, Lo Celso will end an 80-day stretch without official match action. In total, he missed 15 matches at club level across La Liga, Copa del Rey, and the UEFA Europa League. Our squad list for #OsasunaRealBetis 📋#LALIGARETRO pic.twitter.com/Dbq4hMULvR — Real Betis Balompié (@RealBetis_en) April 11, 2026 Lo Celso aims to regain ground with Argentina The muscle injury sustained at Betis also kept Giovani Lo Celso out of Argentina’s plans at the start of the year. He was left off Lionel Scaloni’s roster for the friendlies against Mauritania and Zambia in Buenos Aires during the March FIFA break. With just two months until the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Lo Celso’s situation remains uncertain. For years, he has been a key piece of the squad and Lionel Messi’s primary creative partner. However, recurring injuries over the past few seasons have caused him to lose ground, while other players have risen in the manager’s pecking order. At the moment, reports indicate that Scaloni is set on bringing several midfielders to the World Cup, including Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Exequiel Palacios, and Nicolas Paz. Lo Celso is not currently part of that group and will need to deliver strong performances — and, above all, maintain his fitness — in the coming months with Betis to compete for one of the final roster spots. Lo Celso has unfinished business at the World Cup Despite being a regular part of the Argentina setup for most of the past decade, Giovani Lo Celso has yet to play in a World Cup. He was included in the squad for Russia 2018, but then-head coach Jorge Sampaoli surprisingly did not give him a single minute across Argentina’s four matches. Four years later, Lo Celso was a clear starter in Lionel Scaloni’s plans heading into Qatar 2022, but an untimely muscle injury suffered weeks before the tournament while playing for Villarreal ruled him out of the squad. Now, he faces the challenge of earning a spot on Argentina’s roster for North America 2026 and finally settling that unfinished business.

Didier Deschamps, Kylian Mbappe’s head coach with the France national team, is reportedly among Real Madrid’s options. As they continue competing in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League, Real Madrid are focused on deciding who will be their next head coach. Didier Deschamps has reportedly emerged as a candidate—the current boss of Kylian Mbappe with the France national team. “Didier Deschamps is on the final shortlist being considered by Madrid, which includes very few names,” Sport reports, citing Radio Monte Carlo. “Madrid have already made their interest known.” Deschamps has spent a long time in international soccer. He was appointed France’s head coach in 2012 and has since overseen one of the most successful long-term projects in the game: the national team were World Cup champions in Russia 2018 and runners-up in Qatar 2022. They also reached the Euro 2016 final and won the 2021 UEFA Nations League. After 14 years in charge, Deschamps’ tenure with France will come to an end following the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, which means the coach is expected to return to club soccer. He also brings solid experience at that level, with successful spells at AS Monaco (2001–05), Juventus (2006–07), and Olympique Marseille (2009–12). Kylian Mbappe playing for Real Madrid. The case for Deschamps as a Real Madrid candidate The success Didier Deschamps has achieved throughout his managerial career is more than enough to justify his consideration. In addition to his two titles with France, he has also collected several trophies at club level—eight in total across his time with Monaco, Juventus, and Marseille. But according to Sport, that’s not the only appealing aspect of Deschamps for Real Madrid. “The French coach is a winner both as a player and as a manager, and he has always stood up for his players and handled the pressure around the team. He runs a tight dressing room and doesn’t hesitate when tough decisions are required,” the report states. And when it comes to relationships with his players, another key factor is his familiarity with several stars in the squad. “He has a very good relationship with Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni, two players who will shape the club’s future,” Sport adds. Zidane could replace Deschamps with France While Didier Deschamps is being considered as an option for Real Madrid, his successor with France could be a legend of the Spanish side. Reports have long indicated that Zinedine Zidane is the man chosen by the French Football Federation to take over the national team after the 2026 World Cup. The choice comes as no surprise, given Zidane’s credentials. He was a superstar for France during his playing career, leading the team to victory at the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000. As a manager, he also excelled, winning 11 trophies, including three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles.

Lautaro Martinez suffered another injury, keeping Argentina concerned ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With a little over two months to go before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Argentina are paying close attention to one of their stars, Lautaro Martinez, who suffered a new injury this week that will prevent him from returning to action in the short term. “Lautaro Martinez aggravated his soleus muscle injury,” journalist Gaston Edul reported Friday via his official X account. The update, however, includes a positive detail compared to his previous muscle issue: “Not as serious.” The striker has played just one official match in the last two months. In mid-February, he was sidelined by a muscle injury that forced him to miss Inter Milan’s UEFA Champions League playoff clash against Bodo/Glimt, as well as five Serie A matches and one Coppa Italia fixture. After recovering from that setback last week, Martinez started in Inter Milan’s 5–2 win over AS Roma in Serie A on Sunday, where he scored twice. However, he has now suffered another setback that will force him to rest again. “He will be out for a few more days,” Edul added on X. Lionel Scaloni, Head Coach of Argentina. Argentina closely monitoring Lautaro Martinez’s situation Although the 2026 FIFA World Cup is still over two months away, Argentina are closely monitoring Lautaro Martinez’s situation. The striker has been a key piece of Lionel Scaloni’s squad throughout his tenure as head coach and is expected to have a place in the 26-man roster heading to North America this summer. However, the fact that Martinez is dealing with recurring physical issues so close to the tournament is a growing concern. In fact, he was left out of Scaloni’s latest squad during the March international break, when Argentina defeated Mauritania and Zambia in Buenos Aires. Lautaro Martinez still has unfinished business at the World Cup Despite playing a decisive role for Argentina in recent years—such as scoring the winning goal in the 2024 Copa America final against Colombia—Lautaro Martinez did not have the same impact during Argentina’s 2022 World Cup title run in Qatar. He started as the team’s main striker in that tournament, but an ankle injury prevented him from being at full fitness. After just two matches, he lost his place in the starting lineup to Julian Alvarez. That led to a disappointing campaign, as he failed to score during the entire World Cup. For that reason, North America 2026 carries special importance for Martinez, who will be looking to settle that unfinished business and deliver for Argentina on soccer’s biggest stage.

FOOTBALL maverick Ailton once tried to sell himself to Qatar in a shock nationality switch that forced Fifa to step in - and later saw his Golden Boot end up on eBay. And in January 2012, he took part in the German version of I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! But eight years before...

Claudio Gugnali, former assistant coach of Argentina, spoke with Lionel Messi and expressed confidence that he will play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The uncertainty surrounding Lionel Messi’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup is getting closer to being resolved. All signs appear to point toward a positive outcome—something also sensed by former Argentina assistant Claudio Gugnali. “For me, Messi will be at the World Cup, there’s no doubt. I felt it, and I saw him in great shape on the field,” Gugnali said in a recent interview with Radio Gol, following the friendlies Argentina played against Mauritania and Zambia in Buenos Aires during the March FIFA break. Gugnali served as assistant to head coach Alejandro Sabella between 2011 and 2014, when the national team reached the World Cup final in Brazil, where they lost 1-0 to Germany. Those years allowed him to build a close relationship with Messi, who was, of course, a key part of that squad. With the forward’s visit to Buenos Aires during the international break, Gugnali had the opportunity to meet with him at the Argentine Football Association training facility and have a private conversation. “We talked about family and his time in Miami; he told me he’s very happy, not like in Paris, where he suffered,” Claudio revealed. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Claudio Gugnali (@claudiogugnali) Finally, Gugnali made it clear that he has no doubts about Lionel Messi’s commitment to the Argentina national team and how much every international tournament means to him. “I saw him cry in Brazil and in Qatar; he truly cries for the national team,” the coach said, referring to the Copa America 2021 and World Cup 2022 titles. What will determine whether Messi plays in the 2026 World Cup? During the celebrations after winning the title in Qatar, Lionel Messi said that it had been his last World Cup, adding that he wanted to “keep playing a little longer with Argentina as world champion.” That timeline, however, has gradually extended to include the entire South American qualifiers for 2026, as well as Copa America 2024. With the tournament in North America approaching, the forward has yet to make an official decision about his participation, as he nears his 39th birthday and remains uncertain whether his physical condition will meet the demands of the most intense competition in soccer. “I’ll take it day by day, being honest and trying to be realistic and feel good,” he said in late 2025 in an interview with ESPN. Messi has also expressed optimism that the MLS calendar could work in his favor: “Having a preseason in the middle, I think that changes everything for me… European players arrive at the end with so many matches on their legs. For us, it comes at a different point in the season.” When does Messi have to make a decision? Lionel Messi’s uncertainty cannot last much longer, as FIFA imposes strict deadlines for each national team to finalize its squad. In just over a month, on May 11, coaches of the 48 participating countries must submit a preliminary list of up to 55 players. The final deadline is May 30, when that list must be cut down to the official 26-man roster.

NOT content with bombing Iran, the Americans are now hell-bent on blowing football fans’ credit ratings to smithereens. Who knew, after deeply controversial tournaments in Russia and Qatar, it would actually be the 2026 World Cup in North America which would prove to be the most divisive in recent memory. Whether it’s the ongoing political tension, Donald...

Following their success at Qatar 2022, Argentina is finalizing preparations ahead of the next edition of soccer's biggest tournament. Leer

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the largest of its kind as it will be hosted over three countries for the first time in history, featuring 48 teams from the six football federations, an increase of 16 countries from the regular format of 32 nations that has been in place since 1998. The… The post Newcomers and Second Appearances: What to Expect in the 2026 World Cup first appeared on Breaking The Lines.

Former Arsenal and Wales star Aaron Ramsey has officially retired from professional football with immediate effect.

Things could have turned out very differently...

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the largest of its kind as it will be hosted over three countries for the first time in history, featuring 48 teams from the six football federations, an increase of 16 countries from the regular format of 32 nations that has been in place since 1998. The… The post Newcomers and Second Appearances: What to Expect in the 2026 World Cup first appeared on Breaking The Lines.

The first open sale of tickets for the 2026 World Cup final show that FIFA are selling some for just shy of $11,000 – around £8,333. Reports suggest that is the most expensive ticket for gene…

Milne, 62, has become a recognisable face at England football matches after a picture of him wearing a Three Lions shirt and holding a replica World Cup trophy at Qatar 2022 went viral.

Switzerland are going to be playing at the World Cup this summer without one of their most iconic players. Xherdan Shaqiri has scored many goals at major tournaments over the years, but he won̵…

As Germany line up at the 2026 World Cup this summer, there will be one huge name missing from their squad. Manuel Neuer will not be going to the tournament with his nation, after making way for a …