Clubs everywhere are splashing plenty of cash in the transfer window, and we're here to evaluate ...

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Running analysis and grades for every major summer transfer

Eberechi Eze completed his return to Arsenal ahead of the team's 5-0 win over Leeds United on Sat...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/90906" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/90906">Eberechi Eze</a> completed his return to Arsenal ahead of the team's 5-0 win over Leeds United on Saturday.The Gunners reached an agreement to sign Eze from Crystal Palace for around £68 million, beating out local rivals Tottenham Hotspur to his signature, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6565048/2025/08/20/eberechi-eze-arsenal-transfer-agreement/">The Athletic's David Ornstein</a>.The 27-year-old signed a long-term contract with Arsenal before he was introduced to fans at the Emirates Stadium. He wasn't part of Mikel Arteta's matchday squad to face Leeds.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"He is a powerful and exciting player who will give us a new dimension in our attacking game," Arteta <a href="https://www.arsenal.com/news/eberechi-eze-signs-arsenal">said</a>. "What stands out just as much as his talent and intelligence as a player, is the way he has worked hard throughout his career to get where he is today. "Eze told <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cn85d82q55zo">BBC Sport</a> in May that representing Arsenal's academy "was everything" before he was released at 13. He was subsequently released by Fulham and Millwall, and had numerous unsuccessful trials elsewhere, until Queens Park Rangers took a chance on him.Eze broke into QPR's first team after an excellent loan spell with Wycombe Wanderers. He soon developed a reputation for his slippery movement, tricks and, most crucially, his consistency. The playmaker joined Crystal Palace in the summer of 2020 and quickly established himself as a fan favorite en route to making 169 appearances, scoring 40 goals and recording 28 assists. He scored the winner in Palace's FA Cup final triumph over Manchester City.Now, Eze is returning to the club that he first joined aged nine."The better the feeling, the stronger the feeling, I think the better," manager Arteta <a href="https://www.thescore.com/eng_fed/news/3329299">said</a> Friday of the attacking midfielder's Arsenal allegiance."It brings a different edge, a different will and emotion to what you do. I think that always brings something extra."Eze expected to sign for Tottenham, but he called Arteta on Wednesday to see if there was any possibility of Arsenal turning their interest into an official approach, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6568120/2025/08/23/inside-eberechi-eze-arsenal-transfer/">The Athletic's James McNicholas</a> reports. Arsenal matched the financial package offered by Spurs later that day, leaving Eze with the straightforward decision to become his boyhood club's seventh senior signing of a busy summer.The move follows news of an injury to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/86595" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/86595">Kai Havertz</a>. However, Arteta said there was no relation between the German forward's knee issue and Eze's arrival."We are not reacting to anything," he insisted. "We've been very prepared and understanding what we could do, and we have decided this is the moment to do it."His arrival gives Arteta another creative force who can operate in multiple positions.Though most comfortable as a No. 10, Eze will likely slot into Arsenal's lineup as a left-sided attacker, further strengthening a positional group that already includes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/161088" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/161088">Gabriel Martinelli</a> and summer signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/162571" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/162571">Noni Madueke</a>. Madueke was picked to start ahead of Martinelli against Leeds.Arteta said before Eze's transfer was announced that it's proof the club is "showing the ambition" that's required to win major trophies."We want to be in front in the league, not just chasing or reacting or being behind, but in front of it, and every decision that we make in every area of the club is to achieve that," he stressed.

LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 23: Eberechi Eze is presented to the fans prior to the Premier League match between Arsenal and Leeds United at Emirates Stadium on August 23, 2025 in London, England.

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Eze back at boyhood club Arsenal after big-money move from Palace

theScore provides key takeaways and analysis from the opening round of the 2025-26 Premier League...

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Analysis from opening weekend of Premier League season

After a brief summer break, the 2025-26 Premier League campaign kicks off Friday. We're looking i...

After a brief summer break, the 2025-26 Premier League campaign kicks off Friday. We're looking into our crystal ball to predict what'll happen in the top flight of English football this season. Don't fact-check these in May.<h3>Title winners</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790959/cropped_GettyImages-2216378481.jpg?ts=1750249180" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790959/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216378481.jpg?ts=1750249180 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790959/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216378481.jpg?ts=1750249180 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790959/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216378481.jpg?ts=1750249180 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790959/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216378481.jpg?ts=1750249180 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790959/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216378481.jpg?ts=1750249180 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Peter Byrne - PA Images / PA Images / Getty</figcaption></figure>Daniel Rouse: Liverpool. It's a common mistake to base preseason predictions primarily on transfer business, but it's impossible not to be seduced by Liverpool's deals. Areas of need were addressed, particularly with Milos Kerkez's arrival, while the attack received a significant upgrade. And at times of tragedy, people come together: The squad is likely to be closer than ever after Diogo Jota's death.Gianluca Nesci: Arsenal. Picking against Liverpool is probably unwise. After running away with the title last season, the Reds went on a massive summer spending spree - which isn't even over yet - to set themselves up for long-term dominance; if they get Alexander Isak, it's a wrap. But those new players need time to adapt. Arsenal have the most continuity of the title challengers, and they finally landed the kind of striker who can push them over the top. It feels like now or never for Mikel Arteta's Gunners after three consecutive second-place finishes.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Champions League places</h3>We predict that the Premier League will again earn a fifth Champions League place through strong performances in Europe this season.Rouse: Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Newcastle United. Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have a long way to climb, and the other teams trying to break into the top places - like Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest - have barely improved, if at all.Nesci: Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur. The gap between the top four and everyone else is large. Assuming fifth place again yields a Champions League berth, Tottenham's continued revamp makes them an intriguing choice. The other clubs in the mix have either been too stagnant this summer or have regressed, but Spurs have plenty of room to improve with Thomas Frank at the helm, especially if they can land Savinho and Eberechi Eze.<h3>Relegated clubs</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797220/cropped_GettyImages-2227467600.jpg?ts=1754931086" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797220/w220xh124_GettyImages-2227467600.jpg?ts=1754931086 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797220/w320xh180_GettyImages-2227467600.jpg?ts=1754931086 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797220/w640xh360_GettyImages-2227467600.jpg?ts=1754931086 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797220/w768xh432_GettyImages-2227467600.jpg?ts=1754931086 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797220/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2227467600.jpg?ts=1754931086 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Ed Sykes / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Rouse: Burnley, Leeds United, and Sunderland. This will be the third consecutive season that the three promoted teams go straight back down. The chasm between the Premier League and Championship is huge.Nesci: Brentford, Burnley, and Sunderland. I want to believe that exciting signings like Habib Diarra and Chemsdine Talbi will help Sunderland stay up, but the leap from the second tier has become almost impossible to navigate. Brentford could be in big trouble after losing their coach, captain, and best player this summer, with Yoane Wissa possibly joining the exodus.<h3>Full predicted table</h3>In our predicted table, the top five qualify for the Champions League, while sixth place yields a Europa League berth. The winners of the League Cup secure a spot in the Conference League.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-hObuY" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/hObuY/28/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="1029" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure><h3>PFA Player of the Year</h3>Rouse: Bukayo Saka. Arsenal can now give more consideration to their most influential player's workload following the arrival of Noni Madueke, so Saka will hopefully stay fit and fresh for his team's latest push for a long-awaited Premier League title. He's remarkably consistent for the Gunners, and creating goals for his team should be easier with Viktor Gyokeres - rather than, say, a defensive midfielder like Mikel Merino - spearheading the frontline.Nesci: Declan Rice. It's not uncommon for a player to take home the PFA honor without winning the league title - Salah did exactly that just a few years ago - but being part of a championship-winning side obviously strengthens your case. While Saka is Arsenal's best player, Rice is the engine that powers Arteta's team. He should also have more freedom this season with Martin Zubimendi pulling the strings alongside him.<h3>Golden Boot winner</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794384/cropped_GettyImages-2223100895.jpg?ts=1752590276" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794384/w220xh124_GettyImages-2223100895.jpg?ts=1752590276 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794384/w320xh180_GettyImages-2223100895.jpg?ts=1752590276 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794384/w640xh360_GettyImages-2223100895.jpg?ts=1752590276 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794384/w768xh432_GettyImages-2223100895.jpg?ts=1752590276 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794384/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2223100895.jpg?ts=1752590276 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Francois Nel / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Rouse: Mohamed Salah. Manchester City could share the goals more evenly this campaign, likely reducing Erling Haaland's output, while Alexander Isak is unhappy at Newcastle. And in the Premier League era, only Haaland and Kevin Phillips have finished as top scorer in their debut seasons, so can we really expect the same from Gyokeres, Hugo Ekitike, and other newcomers? The service should also improve for Salah after the signings of Kerkez, Florian Wirtz, and Jeremie Frimpong. Even with taking time off for Egypt's Africa Cup of Nations campaign, Salah is well-positioned for another scoring title.Nesci: Haaland. By his otherworldly standards, scoring 22 league goals last season was a letdown. Expect the insatiable Norwegian to stay healthy this year and come back with a vengeance. Salah's AFCON participation does give Haaland the edge for me.<h3>Best signing</h3>Rouse: Rayan Cherki. Cherki might need time to adjust, but he could already be the most technically gifted player in the league. Manchester City paying just €36 million for the playmaker, who turns 22 on Sunday, is frankly ridiculous.Nesci: Wirtz. There will be several others who offer better value relative to their price tag, but Wirtz is such an enchanting talent that even his monstrous transfer fee won't hold him back. The 22-year-old German is one of the few players who can justify the potential €150 million that Liverpool dropped to acquire him from Bayer Leverkusen.<h3>Worst signing</h3>Rouse: Armando Broja. Although there will be more expensive flops this season, how have Burnley not gotten the hint that Broja, who'll represent his fifth Premier League club in the last five years, isn't up to standard? The 23-year-old cost around £15 million to sign from Chelsea.Nesci: Jamie Gittens. This has little to do with Gittens himself and speaks more to Chelsea's hoarding. There will be worse newcomers than the 21-year-old this campaign, but the Blues could end up paying £52 million for a raw player who needs top-level minutes to develop. Can Chelsea offer Gittens that? He'll battle with Pedro Neto and Estevao on the wing. Joao Pedro can also occupy that spot. Chelsea are still chasing Alejandro Garnacho and Xavi Simons, too. Having already gone through the stockpiling phase, this summer was the time to make moves that would push the team to the next level.<h3>First manager sacked</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766039/cropped_GettyImages-2193936727.jpg?ts=1737222050" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766039/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193936727.jpg?ts=1737222050 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766039/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193936727.jpg?ts=1737222050 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766039/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193936727.jpg?ts=1737222050 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766039/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193936727.jpg?ts=1737222050 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766039/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193936727.jpg?ts=1737222050 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Justin Setterfield / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Rouse: Graham Potter. A rotten start to his West Ham United tenure has already lost him a lot of support among the club's fans. The summer exodus of many experienced and well-respected players from the club has only compounded that early unrest. The Irons could be in relegation trouble.Nesci: Nuno Espirito Santo. After the incredible highs of last season, it's not hard to envision a scenario where Nottingham Forest get off to a slow start, especially with the added strain of balancing their Europa League commitments with the demands of the Premier League. Evangelos Marinakis is one of the most volatile owners in the game, and he's already clashed very publicly with Nuno before. The ingredients are all there.<h3>Breakout star</h3>Rouse: It's easy to forget about Oscar Bobb, a skillful and composed attacker with an exceptionally high ceiling. The 22-year-old Norwegian seemed set for an important role at Manchester City before he broke his leg on the eve of last season. He could be set for a big campaign this time around.Nesci: Estevao already looks like a phenom, and I'm hopeful that 16-year-old preseason standout Rio Ngumoha will get some opportunities at Liverpool this year. Still, Charalampos Kostoulas is my pick here. Given their track record with talent identification, any time Brighton decide to spend €35 million on a largely unknown teenager, we should all take notice. The 18-year-old Greek forward could be the next great success story of the club's scouting network.<h3>Biggest surprise</h3>Rouse: David Moyes expressed his irritation at Everton's failure to get deals over the line earlier in the summer, but the Scot's return last January and the new stadium have lifted the club's mood. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall could be a low-key great signing.Nesci: Liverpool's slow start. Arne Slot's reigning champions are better on paper than last year, but preseason has exposed some vulnerabilities, particularly on the counterattack. Crystal Palace took full advantage of Liverpool's high full-backs and exploited big open spaces in midfield during the Community Shield. We shouldn't read too much into preseason results, but Slot has work to do to find the right balance of attacking verve and defensive solidity.<h3>Most excited about ...</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795996/cropped_GettyImages-2227289633.jpg?ts=1753818630" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795996/w220xh124_GettyImages-2227289633.jpg?ts=1753818630 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795996/w320xh180_GettyImages-2227289633.jpg?ts=1753818630 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795996/w640xh360_GettyImages-2227289633.jpg?ts=1753818630 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795996/w768xh432_GettyImages-2227289633.jpg?ts=1753818630 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/795996/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2227289633.jpg?ts=1753818630 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Alex Pantling / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Rouse: With a stronger promoted trio last season, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur would've been in danger of relegation. How they respond will be fascinating. United have doubled down on Ruben Amorim, bankrolling a whole new strikeforce for the oft-gloomy boss. Meanwhile, Spurs are entering a new era with the highly rated Thomas Frank.Nesci: Giant strikers being back in fashion. This has been a theme for a couple of seasons now, with the likes of Haaland, Chris Wood, and Jean-Philippe Mateta thriving. Fellow big boys Benjamin Sesko, Thierno Barry, and Gyokeres have now joined the party. Diminutive, tricky forwards are brilliant to watch, but there's something fun about the shift back toward imposing No. 9s leading the line. Just chuck it into the mixer, lads.Leave your own predictions in the comments below!

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Premier League predictions: Title winners, UCL spots, and more

Welcome to World Cup Run-Up, a new column from theScore. On the 11th of each month, we'll examine...

Welcome to World Cup Run-Up, a new column from theScore. On the 11th of each month, we'll examine the biggest talking points relating to the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Which teams and players are trending up or down, what's new with the co-hosts, and how is the expanded 48-team tournament shaping up? The countdown is on.<h3>Opening whistle: Parsing key transfers 🧐</h3>The summer transfer market is invariably viewed through the lens of club soccer. Teams are tinkering, retooling, or reloading entirely in the hopes of reaching their targets during the upcoming season, while players themselves are looking to take the next step in their respective careers. But don't discount the impact the World Cup has on these decisions. In many cases, transfers are completed explicitly with the tournament in mind. It happens every time a major international event rolls around.This window has been no different. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Son Heung-min, after a decade at Tottenham Hotspur, realized he was being relegated to a lesser role at the club and opted to join LAFC in Major League Soccer, where he could conceivably play every minute at club level before leading South Korea at the World Cup next year. Marcus Rashford, instead of rotting on the bench at Manchester United, will play regularly at Barcelona. Conversely, Nico Williams, wary of either not being registered or not getting enough minutes with the Catalan club, spurned Barca's advances in favor of staying with the sure thing at Athletic Bilbao.Sometimes the grass isn't greener. Other times, it is.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794155/cropped_GettyImages-2224319953.jpg?ts=1754888249" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794155/w220xh124_GettyImages-2224319953.jpg?ts=1754888249 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794155/w320xh180_GettyImages-2224319953.jpg?ts=1754888249 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794155/w640xh360_GettyImages-2224319953.jpg?ts=1754888249 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794155/w768xh432_GettyImages-2224319953.jpg?ts=1754888249 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794155/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2224319953.jpg?ts=1754888249 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> FRANCK FIFE / AFP / Getty</figcaption></figure>Joao Pedro has a better chance of cracking the Brazil lineup if he's scoring for Chelsea as opposed to Brighton &amp; Hove Albion. Americans Tim Weah and Johnny Cardoso need strong seasons after moving to Marseille and Atletico Madrid, respectively, to bolster their case for a starting spot on Mauricio Pochettino's team. Canada's Jonathan David should benefit from swapping Lille for Italian giants Juventus. If Rayan Cherki settles quickly at Manchester City, he could convince Didier Deschamps that he deserves the coveted role as France's primary playmaker. Dean Huijsen always looked destined to shine for Spain, but his new status as a starting center-back for Real Madrid only increases that likelihood. Jordan Henderson, somewhat inexplicably, still has a place in the England setup under Thomas Tuchel, a position that's probably been strengthened by his move back to the Premier League with Brentford.The inverse is also true. Some players have made moves that, at least on paper, are detrimental to their World Cup hopes.Mateo Retegui, Italy's nominal No. 9, ran away with the Serie A Golden Boot last season, scoring 25 league goals for Atalanta. He then promptly moved to Saudi club Al-Qadsiah this summer. Theo Hernandez, France's best left-back, ditched AC Milan for Al-Hilal. We won't begrudge any player chasing an enormous payday - get what you can, while you can - but the trade-off is obvious. Perhaps Joao Felix, now at Al-Nassr, can prove us wrong.We're watching this space with great interest until the window closes Sept. 1.<h3>North American notebook 🇺🇸🇨🇦🇲🇽</h3>What's the latest with the three co-hosts?United States: Several glaring questions surround Pochettino's squad after a disastrous Nations League showing in March was followed by a largely uninformative Gold Cup. The U.S. doesn't have another competitive fixture until the World Cup, so Pochettino, hired at a huge expense to take the USMNT to the next level, will only have friendlies to figure out his best XI. A good place to start is between the sticks. Matt Freese had an uneven Gold Cup, potentially opening the door for namesake Matt Turner to regain his place as the No. 1 netminder. Turner's recent move back to MLS with New England will give him the minutes he's sorely been missing in 2025. Solidity in goal is vital for any team with aspirations of making noise at the World Cup, and the U.S. intends to be very loud next summer.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796413/cropped_GettyImages-2221974457.jpg?ts=1754079129" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796413/w220xh124_GettyImages-2221974457.jpg?ts=1754079129 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796413/w320xh180_GettyImages-2221974457.jpg?ts=1754079129 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796413/w640xh360_GettyImages-2221974457.jpg?ts=1754079129 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796413/w768xh432_GettyImages-2221974457.jpg?ts=1754079129 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796413/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2221974457.jpg?ts=1754079129 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Sebastian Frej / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Canada: Alphonso Davies continues to make strides in his recovery after tearing the ACL in his right knee - much to the exasperation of Bayern Munich - during the Nations League in March. Bayern are hopeful the 24-year-old can return to the pitch at the end of October, which would give him over seven months to regain full fitness and sharpness before he captains Canada at the World Cup on home soil. Jesse Marsch has turned Canada into a competitive team, but the ceiling is capped as long as the nation's best player is on the sidelines. Davies is one of the world's most explosive left-backs, and (spoiler alert) no other Canadian can single-handedly raise the level of Marsch's team in the same way.Mexico: Despite winning both major titles on offer to them in 2025 - the Nations League in March and the Gold Cup in July - El Tri are still far from convincing right now. This remains a team in transition. But Javier Aguirre has steadied the ship after a tumultuous period of managerial upheaval, and in Gilberto Mora, Mexico possesses one of the game's genuine teen phenoms. The 16-year-old midfielder, who played 75 minutes in the Gold Cup final, is a breathtaking talent. A daring dribbler, the Tijuana sensation dances past would-be tacklers and shows the kind of on-ball composure that belies his youth. He's a game-changer in the mold of fellow wunderkind Lamine Yamal, and Mexico needs to start building around him going into 2026.<h3>Rising and falling 📈📉</h3>Which teams, players, and coaches have been trending up or down?Haaland's World Cup chances 📈Erling Haaland, now 25, has never played in a major international tournament at senior level. That's finally poised to change. Norway is on track to reach its first World Cup since 1998 after a perfect start to its qualification campaign. The Norwegians have won all four of their matches thus far, scoring 13 goals in the process - Haaland has four of them - and conceding just twice.Included amongst those victories was a 3-0 dismantling of Italy that has put Norway in full control of its own destiny in Group I of UEFA qualifying. Nobody wants to see Haaland and compatriot Martin Odegaard featured on another pre-tournament list that highlights the best players to miss the World Cup.Neymar's World Cup dream 📉Neymar desperately wants one last crack at winning the World Cup. The 33-year-old, who hasn't played for Brazil since tearing his ACL and meniscus in 2023, left plenty of money on the table in Saudi Arabia to return to Santos in the hopes that the familiar (and familial) surroundings of his boyhood club would propel him back into the Selecao picture. It's a romantic story. Whether it's realistic is another matter. New Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti didn't call up the nation's all-time leading scorer when naming his first squad earlier this year, and the battle for a roster spot has only intensified since then.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767568/cropped_GettyImages-1656972847.jpg?ts=1738024889" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767568/w220xh124_GettyImages-1656972847.jpg?ts=1738024889 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767568/w320xh180_GettyImages-1656972847.jpg?ts=1738024889 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767568/w640xh360_GettyImages-1656972847.jpg?ts=1738024889 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767568/w768xh432_GettyImages-1656972847.jpg?ts=1738024889 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/767568/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1656972847.jpg?ts=1738024889 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Xinhua News Agency / Xinhua News Agency / Getty</figcaption></figure>Vinicius Junior and Raphinha are locks. Matheus Cunha is going to start every week for Manchester United. Joao Pedro is making waves at Chelsea. Estevao is one of the most exciting teenagers around. Endrick, who once owned that title, was just given the No. 9 shirt at Real Madrid. Rodrygo and Gabriel Martinelli are keen to bounce back this season. Richarlison, Antony, and Savinho are also in the mix. Neymar's one of the greatest players of his generation and arguably the best pure dribbler in the sport's history, but it's hard to have faith that his body can hold up any longer.Cinderella stories 📈Expanding the World Cup from the traditional 32-team field to next year's humongous 48-team version certainly has its share of detractors. The concerns are understandable. Cramming 104 games into 39 days across three countries sounds like a logistical nightmare, and adding 16 teams threatens to dilute the overall quality of the product and take some sheen off the illustrious tournament - for what it's worth, even a "bad" World Cup game is still a World Cup game, so the latter shouldn't be an issue.On the flip side, the most obvious benefit is already being realized. Nations that would otherwise have little to no chance of qualifying will now get to be part of the action. Uzbekistan and Jordan have already booked first-time tickets; Cape Verde has a chance to beat out Cameroon in Africa; Indonesia, coached by Patrick Kluivert, is in the mix in Asia; New Caledonia is already assured of a place in the intercontinental playoffs. FIFA's motivations for supersizing the World Cup were obviously monetary, but this is one positive, if unintended, consequence.<h3>Quick free-kicks 💥</h3>What else is catching the eye?Club World Cup lessons: Let's give Gianni Infantino some credit. The Club World Cup, buoyed by vibrant fans and shocking upsets, was more fun than anyone expected. But concerns about player welfare came into sharper focus as the oppressive U.S. summer heat wreaked havoc. Matches were routinely played in searing 90-plus degree conditions, with multiple players admitting it had adverse effects on their health and performance. How could it not? FIFA has to balance the well-being of players, fans, staff, and hordes of volunteers with the considerations of the global television audience - precedence suggests the governing body will prioritize the latter, despite the efforts of various player unions. It's tricky, we get it. At the absolute least, how about we don't schedule the marquee matches of the tournament for the hottest times of the day? Take the easy win.Last dance for Messi, CR7: This sentiment will only grow as the tournament draws near, but it's impossible to think about the competition without reminding ourselves that Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, the totemic superstars of the last two decades - and arguably ever - will grace the sport's grandest stage for the last time. Ronaldo will be 41 by the time the World Cup begins, while Messi, still the talisman for reigning champion Argentina, turns 39 during the competition.Gattuso's rescue mission: It's been almost 20 years since Italy last featured in a World Cup knockout match. That's absurd. The Azzurri followed up their fourth title in 2006 with limp group-stage exits in 2010 and 2014, and then outdid themselves by failing to qualify altogether for the last two editions. They're now in legitimate danger of making it three straight. A brutal start to qualifying against the aforementioned Norwegians led Italy to sack Luciano Spalletti and replace him with Gennaro Gattuso. It was an act of pure desperation for a nation flirting with more humiliation. Barring a rapid turnaround under the ex-midfielder, Italy will likely need to navigate another playoff to make the World Cup. What could possibly go wrong?Let's get down to business: Over 500 World Cup qualifying matches have already been played across the various confederations since the cycle began in 2023, but things start to really heat up now. Beginning with the September international break, there are qualifying windows for three consecutive months before the tournament draw is held in December. The playing field will begin to crystallize, and some perennial participants will be sweating.<h3>Who's in, who's out? 🎟️</h3>Thirteen of a possible 48 nations have booked their tickets to the 2026 World Cup, with Canada, Mexico, and the United States included as co-hosts.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-49OlQ" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/49OlQ/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="290" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r,i=0;r=e[i];i++)if(r.contentWindow===a.source){var d=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";r.style.height=d}}})}();
</script></figure>For current World Cup qualifying standings, tap <a href="thescore:///fifaq_fed/standings">here</a>.<h3>Betting odds 🤑</h3>Which teams are favored to win the tournament?<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Team</th>
<th>Odds</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Spain</td>
<td>+550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brazil</td>
<td>+600</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>France</td>
<td>+650</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>England</td>
<td>+700</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Argentina</td>
<td>+800</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Germany</td>
<td>+1000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Portugal</td>
<td>+1100</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Netherlands</td>
<td>+2000</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><blockquote>⚽️ <a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fsoccer%2Fo%5B%E2%80%A6%5Dhescore-content&amp;tags=Soccer&amp;tags=World+Cup+Odds&amp;tags=3320104">Check out the full World Cup odds on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></blockquote><h3>Key dates ahead 🗓️</h3>Sept. 1-9: World Cup qualifying Oct. 6-14: World Cup qualifying Nov. 10-18: World Cup qualifying December 2025: World Cup draw (exact date TBD) March 23-31, 2026: Final World Cup qualifying matches June 1-9, 2026: Pre-tournament friendly matches June 11, 2026: World Cup opening match

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World Cup Run-Up: 10 months until showtime

Victoria Mboko's sensational run in Montreal is complete.  The 18-year-old Canadian won the Natio...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wta/players/10227" href="https://thescore.com/wta/players/10227">Victoria Mboko</a>'s sensational run in Montreal is complete.The 18-year-old Canadian won the National Bank Open, defeating four-time Grand Slam champion <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wta/players/8967" href="https://thescore.com/wta/players/8967">Naomi Osaka</a> 2-6, 6-4, 6-1 on Thursday to claim her first WTA Tour title in front of a raucous crowd.Mboko, a virtual unknown prior to the tournament on home soil, had never previously reached the quarterfinal at a tour-level event before her magical showing in Montreal. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The teenager, ranked 337th at the start of the year, upset four Grand Slam champions en route to her maiden title, taking down Coco Gauff and Sofia Kenin before rousing comebacks against Elena Rybakina and Osaka in the semis and final, respectively.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The winning moment ✨ Victoria Mboko captures her first WTA title in Montreal, defeating Osaka 2-6, 6-4, 6-1.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OBN25?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OBN25</a> <a href="https://t.co/OveLB47YMZ">pic.twitter.com/OveLB47YMZ</a>— wta (@WTA) <a href="https://twitter.com/WTA/status/1953614390621593618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Mboko is only the third Canadian in the Open era to win the country's national event, joining Faye Urban (1969) and Bianca Andreescu (2019)."When I was younger these kinds of achievements seemed so far away," an emotional Mboko said during an on-court interview after the biggest victory of her burgeoning career.Thursday's win will lift Mboko to No. 24 in the world, making her the highest-ranked Canadian ahead of Leylah Fernandez. Mboko will be seeded at the US Open later this month.Osaka, meanwhile, was seeking her first title since winning the Australian Open in 2021. The former World No. 1, who spent time away from the court for both a mental health break and maternity leave, was appearing in her first 1000-level final since 2022.She took the first set in just 37 minutes, but unraveled after that as Mboko came roaring back to hoist the trophy and make a huge statement ahead of the year's final Grand Slam.Both players struggled to hold serve - there were 13 service breaks in 25 games - but Mboko, despite being far less experienced, showed greater composure in the final set to record a win she won't soon forget.

MONTREAL, CANADA - AUGUST 07: Victoria Mboko of Canada celebrates as she holds up the trophy following her victory against Naomi Osaka of Japan during the Women's Singles Final match on day twelve of the WTA 1000 National Bank Open at IGA Stadium on August 7, 2025 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

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Montreal magic: Canadian teen Mboko beats Osaka for 1st title

Major League Soccer has another global star.  Son Heung-min joined Los Angeles FC from Tottenham ...

Major League Soccer has another global star.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/12696" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/12696">Son Heung-min</a> joined Los Angeles FC from Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday, reportedly becoming the most expensive signing in league history.The cost of the 33-year-old's move is around $26.5 million, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6536835/2025/08/05/son-heung-min-tottenham-lafc-transfer-mls-record-fee/?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=twhq&amp;source=twitterhq">The Athletic's Paul Tenorio</a>. The deal beats the previous record for an incoming MLS transfer, which was set in February when Atlanta United paid Middlesbrough $22 million to sign <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/85601" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/85601">Emmanuel Latte Lath</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Son signed a Designated Player contract with LAFC through 2027, with options for both the 2028 and 2029 MLS campaigns.Son is arguably only third to Inter Miami's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1126" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1126">Lionel Messi</a> and new Vancouver Whitecaps signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/2232" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/2232">Thomas Muller</a> in terms of recognizability in MLS. He has 14.5 million Instagram followers at the time of his move. He draws such a strong following from his homeland that many South Koreans were often seen in the stands and press box at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Now he moves to Los Angeles, a city with a sizable Korean population.Son attended LAFC's 2-1 Leagues Cup win over Tigres on Tuesday evening. Nineteen-year-old <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/198614" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/198614">David Martinez</a>, whose minutes could be reduced following Son's arrival, produced a stunning brace in an impressive performance by Steve Cherundolo's side. LAFC's top scorer in MLS this season is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/59772" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/59772">Denis Bouanga</a> with 13 goals."Los Angeles has such a rich history of champions, and I am here to help write the next chapter," Son said in a statement. "I'm excited for this new challenge in MLS. I have come to L.A. to lift trophies and give everything for this club, this city, and its fans. I cannot wait to get started."<h3>'Spurs will always be in my heart'</h3>Son revealed his wish to leave Tottenham last Friday. The South Korean star was tearful during Spurs' friendly against Newcastle United in his homeland Sunday. He received a touching farewell from both teams when he was substituted and was later thrown in the air by Tottenham players. Members of his family also watched from the stands in Seoul."It was a beautiful moment, and it was really emotional," Son <a href="https://x.com/SpursOfficial/status/1952032418602328193">said</a>. "Oof. I'm getting emotional again."He added while holding back tears: "Spurs will always be in my heart. I will cheer as a family member. All the best, guys."Son said during Friday's press conference that the decision to leave "was the most difficult" of his career."I came to north London as a kid. A boy came to London who couldn't speak English. I leave this club as a man," he explained, according to <a href="https://x.com/AlasdairGold/status/1951452686039261397">Alasdair Gold of Football London</a>. "Thanks to all the Spurs fans who have given me so much love."Saudi Arabian clubs reportedly showed interest in Son, but the former Puskas Award winner preferred a switch to LAFC. Spurs, in recognition of his decade of service to the club, apparently wanted to make his exit as smooth as possible.One of Son's best friends at Tottenham, <a href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/16618">Ben Davies</a>, spoke about the forward's legacy at the club after the friendly against Newcastle."I'm pretty sure it's more than we could've ever dreamed of when we got him in, what he would've done for this club. Not just on the pitch, off the pitch," Davies <a href="https://x.com/SpursOfficial/status/1952039023062434130">said</a> about Son, who's the godfather to Davies' son. "His personality, his charisma, how hard he works - to do so much for this club. He deserves whatever comes next."<h3>Consistency for Spurs</h3>Son joined Tottenham from Bayer Leverkusen in 2015, scoring 173 times in 450 appearances across all competitions. A beloved figure at the club, he put together a run of eight consecutive seasons in which he hit double digits in Premier League goals, including in 2021-22 when he shared the Golden Boot with Liverpool's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/17673" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/17673">Mohamed Salah</a>.Son was named captain by former manager Ange Postecoglou in 2023. His crowning achievement with Spurs came when he helped the club end its 17-year trophy drought by winning the Europa League in May."He told me a couple of days ago that he'd be leaving Tottenham this summer," Spurs midfielder <a href="https://x.com/MenInBlazers/status/1951629519376232791">James Maddison</a> <a href="https://x.com/MenInBlazers/status/1951629519376232791">said</a> Saturday. "It's weird for me. Since I joined the Premier League, even with Leicester City, Sonny is Tottenham, and Tottenham is Sonny to me."Former Tottenham teammate <a href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/3022">Hugo Lloris</a> is LAFC's first-choice goalkeeper. Gareth Bale, another Spurs favorite, won the 2022 MLS Cup with the Californian side before his retirement.Postecoglou, who Tottenham sacked as manager shortly after winning the Europa League final, is among the coaches under consideration to succeed current LAFC boss Cherundolo when he leaves after the 2025 MLS campaign, according to a report in June by <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/ce8zy854y4eo">BBC Sport's Ian Dennis</a>.

South Korean football player Son Heung-min holds his LAFC jersey during a press conference as he joins the Los Angeles FC (LAFC) at BMO Stadium's Field Club in Los Angeles on August 6, 2025. South Korea star Son Heung-min has signed for Los Angeles FC, bringing to an end his 10-year stay at Tottenham, both clubs announced on August 6, 2025. The 33-year-old will reportedly cost a Major League Soccer record $26 million transfer fee, according to ESPN and The Athletic.

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Son moves to LAFC in reported record-breaking deal

The Vancouver Whitecaps signed Bayern Munich and Germany legend Thomas Muller on Wednesday.  Mull...

The Vancouver Whitecaps signed Bayern Munich and Germany legend <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/2232" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/2232">Thomas Muller</a> on Wednesday.Muller will wear No. 13, his preferred shirt number while on international duty, for the Canadian outfit.The Whitecaps agreed to acquire Muller's MLS discovery rights from FC Cincinnati before sealing the move. Cincinnati will receive $200,000 in 2025 General Allocation Money (GAM), $100,000 in 2026 GAM, and a conditional $100,000 in 2026 GAM from Vancouver.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Muller isn't immediately a Designated Player in Vancouver, but his contract includes a DP option for 2026."I'm looking forward to coming to Vancouver to help this team win a championship," Muller <a href="https://www.whitecapsfc.com/news/tm13">said</a>. "I've heard great things about the city, but first and foremost, I'm coming to win. I've had great conversations with (CEO and sporting director) Axel Schuster and (head coach) Jesper Sorensen, and now I can't wait to play in front of the supporters and to see all of the fans come out to BC Place as we head towards the playoffs."Schuster described Muller as a "world-class player" and highlighted the qualities that established the 35-year-old as one of the finest tactical footballers in Europe."He not only brings a winning pedigree and exceptional football intelligence, but also a tireless work ethic that will elevate the entire team," Schuster said. "Thomas is a natural leader whose passion for the game is infectious. This is a statement signing by our club and our ownership - a transformative moment for our club and our city."The World Cup winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3258967" href="https://thescore.com/news/3258967">announced</a> in April that he'd be leaving his boyhood club after 25 trophy-laden years. Bayern Munich opted not to offer the veteran forward a new contract, a decision Muller said he respected although it didn't "reflect (his) personal wishes."He played his final match for Bayern at the Club World Cup this summer.Muller joined the German giants when he was 10 and went on to craft one of the most decorated careers in the sport's modern era.He made more appearances for Bayern than any player in history - over 500 in the Bundesliga alone - and won 33 trophies. That list includes 13 Bundesliga titles, six German Cups, and two Champions League crowns.He racked up 250 goals and 276 assists in 756 appearances across all competitions for the Bavarian side.Muller also earned 131 caps for Germany. He won the Golden Boot as the top scorer at the 2010 World Cup and then helped Germany lift the trophy four years later in Brazil.

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - JUNE 20: Thomas Muller #25 of FC Bayern Munchen celebrates after the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group C match between FC Bayern Munchen and CA Boca Juniors at Hard Rock Stadium on June 20, 2025 in Miami Gardens, Florida.

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German legend Muller joins Vancouver: I want to 'win a championship'

Bayern Munich completed the signing of Luis Diaz on Wednesday.  The Bundesliga champions will pay...

Bayern Munich completed the signing of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/101948" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/101948">Luis Diaz</a> on Wednesday.The Bundesliga champions will pay Liverpool €75 million for the Colombian forward, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6515506/2025/07/27/luis-diaz-bayern-munich-transfer-liverpool/?source=emp_shared_article">David Ornstein of The Athletic</a>.That would make Diaz the third-most expensive signing in Bayern history, behind only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/3804" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/3804">Harry Kane</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fran/players/54561" href="https://thescore.com/fran/players/54561">Lucas Hernandez</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 28-year-old signed a contract until 2029 with his new team."In Luis Diaz, we have succeeded in bringing in one of the best left wingers in the Premier League," Bayern CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen said, according to <a href="https://www.barrons.com/news/bayern-munich-sign-luis-diaz-from-liverpool-premier-league-club-57d64348">Agence France-Presse</a>. "He brings real player character from Liverpool to FC Bayern - he's won silverware with every one of his clubs to date.""It means a lot to me to be part of FC Bayern," Diaz said. "They're one of the biggest clubs in the world. I want to help my new team with my way of playing football and my character."Diaz <a href="https://www.instagram.com/luisdiaz19_/p/DMubWYQi1nV/?hl=en&amp;img_index=1">said on social media</a> he would "treasure forever" his time at Liverpool.The Colombian international made it clear earlier this summer that he wanted to leave the Premier League champions, and both Bayern and Barcelona made efforts to sign him. Bayern reportedly had a €67.5-million offer rebuffed, but resumed talks and returned with an improved bid to seal the deal.Diaz was left out of Liverpool's preseason loss to AC Milan last week amid ongoing discussions about his future.The high-priced arrivals of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/166446" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/166446">Hugo Ekitike</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/166018" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/166018">Florian Wirtz</a> threatened to push Diaz down the pecking order at Anfield going into the 2025-26 season. The Reds are also being linked with a move for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/91018" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/91018">Alexander Isak</a>.Bayern, meanwhile, lost <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcquefa/players/29687" href="https://thescore.com/wcquefa/players/29687">Leroy Sane</a> and club icon <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/2232" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/2232">Thomas Muller</a> this summer and have been on the hunt for another forward. They view Diaz as a versatile option who can play multiple roles in attack.Diaz joined Liverpool from FC Porto in 2022, making 148 appearances for the Reds. He scored 13 goals and provided five assists in the Premier League last season, helping Liverpool capture the title.He departs after winning one Premier League trophy, the FA Cup, and two League Cups during his time on Merseyside.

MUNICH, GERMANY - JULY 29: FC Bayern Muenchen unveils the signing of Luis Diaz of FC Bayern Muenchen on July 29, 2025 in Munich, Germany.

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Bayern Munich sign Diaz from Liverpool for reported €75M

Las Vegas will host the draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Dec. 5, sources told ESPN.  The 2026 ...

Las Vegas will host the draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Dec. 5, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45854252/las-vegas-host-fifa-world-cup-draw-december-sources">ESPN</a>.The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The expanded tournament will feature 48 teams for the first time.Vegas, despite not being a host city for matches next summer, was selected for the draw after venues in both Canada and Mexico were ruled out, according to ESPN sources.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The draw will divide the 48 participating nations into 12 groups of four.Pedro Cedillo, an executive at Mexican club Pachuca, told ESPN that he expects Las Vegas to put on the ceremony later this year."Dec. 5, if I'm not mistaken, is precisely the day the draw takes place, or at the beginning of December," he said. "I understand it will be in Las Vegas, and that's where we need to be present to provide information about the city of Pachuca, the state of Hidalgo, and the two venues we have."ESPN originally reported that Sphere, the state-of-the-art entertainment arena that opened in 2023, was considered the front-runner to stage the draw. But sources close to Sphere later confirmed that the venue will not host the event.When the United States hosted the 1994 World Cup, the draw took place at the Las Vegas Convention Center. That venue is already booked this time around, with <a href="https://www.vegasmeansbusiness.com/destination-calendar/?bounds=false&amp;view=grid&amp;sort=date&amp;filter_venues%5B0%5D=31137&amp;filter_date_start=12%2F4%2F2025&amp;filter_date_end=12%2F5%2F2025">multiple events</a> scheduled.The 2026 World Cup kicks off June 11.

GUADALAJARA, MEXICO - APRIL 19: The FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour is displayed in an Agave field inGuadalajara on April 19, 2024 in Guadalajara, Mexico.

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Report: Las Vegas to host World Cup draw Dec. 5

Versatile Canadian international Tajon Buchanan made his move to Villarreal permanent Tuesday, si...

Versatile Canadian international <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/148092" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/148092">Tajon Buchanan</a> made his move to Villarreal permanent Tuesday, signing a five-year contract with the Spanish club.Buchanan spent the second half of last season on loan at Villarreal from Italian side Inter Milan, and the Yellow Submarine triggered an option to keep the 26-year-old. Villarreal will pay €9 million to add Buchanan on a permanent basis, and Inter will retain a 20% sell-on clause as part of the deal, according to transfer insider <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1948423782026088515">Fabrizio Romano</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Looking forward to more great moments in yellow, Tajon 💛<a href="https://t.co/jDL9IE7ha2">pic.twitter.com/jDL9IE7ha2</a>— Villarreal CF English (@VillarrealCFen) <a href="https://twitter.com/VillarrealCFen/status/1950210606625169679?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Buchanan, who can play on either flank as a wing-back or a more traditional winger, made 13 La Liga appearances for Villarreal last season after his move in the January transfer window. He scored one league goal and provided two assists in that time, helping Villarreal finish fifth and qualify for the Champions League."He possesses physical power and speed when carrying the ball ... with a knack for getting into scoring positions and the ability to provide assists," the Spanish club <a href="https://villarrealcf.es/en/tajon-buchanan-is-now-yellow/">said</a> in a statement.Now fully recovered from a fractured tibia suffered in 2024, Buchanan is once again a key part of Canada's national team ahead of next year's World Cup. He's earned 51 caps for his country, including six appearances during this summer's slate of matches - friendlies and the Gold Cup - during which he scored four goals."I found my joy for football again," Buchanan told Canadian media in June after his loan spell in Spain, according to <a href="https://www.tsn.ca/soccer/inter-milan-villareal-agree-on-transfer-fee-for-canadian-tajon-buchanan-1.2339055">Matthew Scianitti of TSN</a>. "That helped me get back to the way I know I can play."

VANCOUVER, CANADA - JUNE 17: Tajon Buchanan #17 of Team Canada celebrates his goal during Canada v Honduras - Gold Cup 2025 action at BC Place on June 17, 2025 in Vancouver, Canada.

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Canada's Buchanan makes move from Inter to Villarreal permanent

Arsenal concluded their arduous pursuit of Viktor Gyokeres on Saturday.  The most prolific goal-s...

Arsenal concluded their arduous pursuit of <a href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/101459">Viktor Gyokeres</a> on Saturday.The most prolific goal-scorer across Europe's top tiers in the 2024-25 campaign joined the Gunners from Sporting CP for an initial €63.5-million fee, with a further €10 million in bonuses, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6510398/2025/07/25/arsenal-transfer-viktor-gyokeres-sporting-deal/">The Athletic's David Ornstein</a>.Gyokeres's long-term contract in north London will run until June 2030, Ornstein adds.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 27-year-old will wear the No. 14 shirt, a number made iconic at Arsenal by club legend Thierry Henry, and immediately join the squad on its preseason tour in Asia."Viktor has so many qualities," Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta <a href="https://www.arsenal.com/news/viktor-gyokeres-signs-arsenal">said</a>. "He is a quick and powerful presence up front, with incredible goal-scoring numbers at club and international levels. He brings a clinical edge with a high conversion rate of chances into goals, with his intelligent movement in the box making him a constant threat."Negotiations with Sporting weren't straightforward throughout this process.Gyokeres didn't report to preseason training in an effort to push the deal through. He believed a gentleman's agreement was in place with the Portuguese side, which allowed him to leave if a club arrived with an offer worth an initial €60 million.Sporting president Frederico Varandas eventually verbally agreed to an overall €73.5-million package for the Swedish striker, but talks still weren't over between the two clubs. Sporting quibbled with the add-on payments tied into the offer to ensure there was a clear possibility of receiving the extra €10 million. Gyokeres' agent waived his commission to help get the deal done, Ornstein reports.Gyokeres emerged as Arsenal's top center-forward target this summer as Arteta identified the position as the main area that needed an upgrade for his team to make the leap from runners-up to Premier League champions.Arsenal have finished second in England's top flight in each of the last three seasons, with their lack of a true No. 9 often cited as their biggest weakness.Gyokeres has developed into one of the most prolific players in Europe since moving to Sporting from Coventry City in 2023. He scored 54 goals in 52 appearances across all competitions last season as Sporting won a domestic double."I always want to score," Gyokeres <a href="https://www.arsenal.com/news/gyokeres-i-cant-wait-score-arsenal-colours">said</a>. "To be a part of this club and to score in this kit and with this badge in front of all the supporters, I can't wait. It will be an amazing feeling."The rapid center-forward is Arsenal's sixth senior signing of the summer. Arteta and new sporting director Andrea Berta also completed deals for winger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/162571" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/162571">Noni Madueke</a>, midfielders <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///natleaguefnl/players/159718" href="https://thescore.com/natleaguefnl/players/159718">Martin Zubimendi</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///intfr/players/101309" href="https://thescore.com/intfr/players/101309">Christian Norgaard</a>, defender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///liga/players/185090" href="https://thescore.com/liga/players/185090">Cristhian Mosquera</a>, and goalkeeper <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///espcr/players/44064" href="https://thescore.com/espcr/players/44064">Kepa Arrizabalaga</a>.

SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE - JULY 27: Viktor Gyokeres of Arsenal applauds supporters prior to the Pre-Season Friendly match between Arsenal FC and Newcastle United at National Stadium on July 27, 2025 in Singapore.

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Arsenal finally seal Gyokeres deal for reported €73.5M

Lionel Messi is getting another bodyguard.  Decorated midfielder Rodrigo De Paul completed his mo...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1126" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1126">Lionel Messi</a> is getting another bodyguard.Decorated midfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///liga/players/30281" href="https://thescore.com/liga/players/30281">Rodrigo De Paul</a> completed his move from Atletico Madrid to Inter Miami on Friday.The 31-year-old will spend the rest of the 2025 MLS season on loan in Miami. The deal includes an option to make the transfer permanent.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The purchase clause will be worth around $17 million, sources told <a href="https://x.com/tombogert/status/1948861640906285155">Tom Bogert of GiveMeSport</a>. That would make De Paul one of the most expensive incoming transfers in MLS history.The move unites the World Cup winner with his international teammate Messi. De Paul is often dubbed Messi's on-field protector when the two suit up for Argentina."Rodrigo is a player I've admired for many years. As a leader he has brought so much to the teams he has played for - especially with his national team Argentina," Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham <a href="https://www.intermiamicf.com/news/inter-miami-cf-signs-world-cup-winning-argentine-international-midfielder-rodrigo-de-paul">said</a>. "He brings experience, passion, and quality to our team and to our city. I'm excited to welcome another World Cup-winning player not just to Inter Miami, but also to MLS."Miami doesn't have an open Designated Player (DP) spot on its roster. Those three slots are occupied by Messi, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1341" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1341">Jordi Alba</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1114" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1114">Sergio Busquets</a>. Miami is adding De Paul to the roster using Targeted Allocation Money (TAM), and he'll become a DP when his deal is made permanent, according to Bogert.Busquets' contract expires at the end of the year, which would open up a slot. Messi's deal is also slated to run out at the same time, but he's expected to sign a contract extension with the club.De Paul should provide a significant boost for a Miami side looking to gear up for a deep playoff run this year. The combative midfielder, who won the World Cup in 2022 and Copa America in both 2021 and 2024 playing alongside Messi, has 78 caps for Argentina.He's made 187 appearances for Atletico since joining the Spanish club from Udinese in 2021.

Lionel Messi and Rodrigo de Paul of Argentina celebrate their team's first goal during a match between Argentina and Bolivia at Estadio Mas Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on October 15.

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De Paul joins Messi at Inter Miami on initial loan from Atletico

The Major League Soccer All-Stars defeated their Liga MX counterparts 3-1 in Wednesday's All-Star...

The Major League Soccer All-Stars defeated their Liga MX counterparts 3-1 in Wednesday's All-Star Game.Strikers <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/60583" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/60583">Sam Surridge</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/188141" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/188141">Tai Baribo</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/100493" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/100493">Brian White</a> scored to lift the MLS side to victory at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1126" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1126">Lionel Messi</a> and Inter Miami teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1341" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1341">Jordi Alba</a> <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3314799" href="https://thescore.com/news/3314799">opted not to play</a> despite being voted into the squad. MLS commissioner Don Garber cited Miami's taxing schedule and recent participation in the Club World Cup as the reason for their absences.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Even without the red-hot Messi, the MLS outfit, coached by Austin FC bench boss Nico Estevez, controlled the contest.Surridge opened the scoring in the 28th minute. The Nashville striker was left all alone inside the penalty area and headed home a perfect cross from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/59772" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/59772">Denis Bouanga</a>.Surridge, who has 18 league goals this season, is tied with Messi for the MLS scoring lead.Baribo of the Philadelphia Union doubled the advantage in the 51st minute, racing through the defense and firing a first-time shot into the bottom corner after being played through by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/99384" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/99384">Diego Rossi</a>.That goal stood up as the game-winning tally, and Baribo was named All-Star Game MVP as a result.Tijuana phenom <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fmf_ap/players/209295" href="https://thescore.com/fmf_ap/players/209295">Gilberto Mora</a>, the 16-year-old midfielder who starred at this summer's Gold Cup for Mexico, scored for the Liga MX All-Stars in the 64th minute. Though Mora made history by becoming the youngest-ever scorer in the MLS All-Star Game, it wasn't enough to inspire a comeback.Vancouver's White restored the two-goal advantage and sealed the win in the 80th minute with a close-range tap-in.FC Cincinnati midfielder <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/167806" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/167806">Evander</a> captained the MLS team. Veteran defender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fmf_ap/players/1325" href="https://thescore.com/fmf_ap/players/1325">Sergio Ramos</a>, now at Monterrey, wore the armband for the Liga MX squad.Wednesday's match marked the fourth time MLS has used this format against the Liga MX All-Stars for the midseason showcase. Last year's 4-1 win was the Mexican side's lone victory thus far.

AUSTIN, TEXAS - JULY 23: Tai Baribo of Philadelphia Union and MLS All-Star celebrates after scoring the team's second goal with teammates during the 2025 MLS All-Star Game at Q2 Stadium on July 23, 2025 in Austin, Texas.

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Strikers shine as MLS beats Liga MX in All-Star Game

Chelsea talisman Cole Palmer took aim at the Blues' critics after his team's emphatic 3-0 win ove...

Chelsea talisman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/166109" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/166109">Cole Palmer</a> took aim at the Blues' critics after his team's emphatic 3-0 win over Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup final.The 23-year-old playmaker powered Chelsea to an unexpected triumph with two first-half goals and an assist in Sunday's one-sided affair at MetLife Stadium.Palmer, who was awarded the Golden Ball as the tournament's top player, said after the match that Chelsea's underdog status made the eventual victory that much sweeter.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"It's a great feeling. Even better, because everyone doubted us before the game, we knew that. To put a fight on like we did, against a great team, it's good," Palmer <a href="https://x.com/DAZNFootball/status/1944511891759390920">told DAZN</a>. "The gaffer put a great game plan out. He knew where the space was going to be. He tried to free me up as much as possible, and I just had to repay him and score some goals."As the Champions League holders and treble winners looking to secure another trophy to finish off the 2024-25 campaign, PSG were the overwhelming favorites heading into Sunday's contest.But they had no answer for Palmer, who picked out the bottom corner with precise goals in the 22nd and 30th minutes before setting up a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/165016" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/165016">Joao Pedro</a> tally with a perfectly weighted pass into the penalty area.Palmer credited coach Enzo Maresca for setting up his team for success."He's building something special, something important," Palmer said. "A young team, everyone's talked a lot of shit about us all season, but I feel like we're going in the right direction."Sunday's victory gave Chelsea their second trophy of the campaign. The Blues, who finished fourth in the Premier League, took home the third-tier UEFA Conference League title in May.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - JULY 13: Cole Palmer #10 of Chelsea FC poses for a photo with his Best Player of the Tournament award following the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Final match between Chelsea FC and Paris Saint-Germain at MetLife Stadium on July 13, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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Golden Ball winner Palmer: Chelsea silenced doubters in CWC final

Chelsea stunned Paris Saint-Germain to win the revamped Club World Cup, scoring three goals in th...

Chelsea stunned Paris Saint-Germain to win the revamped Club World Cup, scoring three goals in the first half en route to a 3-0 victory in Sunday's final.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/166109" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/166109">Cole Palmer</a> found the net with a pair of left-footed strikes eight minutes apart, and summer signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/165016" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/165016">Joao Pedro</a>, after taking a perfect pass from Palmer, chipped in the Blues' third goal shortly before the halftime interval.Chelsea have now won the Club World Cup twice in their history. Their first title came in 2021 under the tournament's previous format, when seven teams participated in the event.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>This triumph was far more lucrative, though. Chelsea will take home around $125 million in prize money, and will go down as the first winners of the 32-team edition of the competition.PSG entered Sunday's contest as the heavy favorites at MetLife Stadium. Luis Enrique's team arrived on the back of a sensational treble-winning campaign that culminated with a historic 5-0 thumping of Inter Milan in the Champions League final.Including that match and their Coupe de France triumph, PSG went into Sunday's final having outscored their opposition 24-1 in their last eight games across all competitions. They steamrolled Real Madrid 4-0 in the semifinals of the Club World Cup earlier in the week and conceded just one goal in the tournament prior to coming up against Enzo Maresca's squad.But, with President Donald Trump among the 81,118 fans in attendance, the Blues flipped the script on PSG in East Rutherford, New Jersey.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794151/cropped_GettyImages-2224320330.jpg?ts=1752438963" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794151/w220xh124_GettyImages-2224320330.jpg?ts=1752438963 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794151/w320xh180_GettyImages-2224320330.jpg?ts=1752438963 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794151/w640xh360_GettyImages-2224320330.jpg?ts=1752438963 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794151/w768xh432_GettyImages-2224320330.jpg?ts=1752438963 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/794151/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2224320330.jpg?ts=1752438963 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Chris Brunskill/Fantasista / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Palmer scored two almost identical goals in the opening 30 minutes, and Chelsea pressed aggressively to disrupt PSG's usually slick passing game. The Champions League holders never found their rhythm, and Pedro put the result out of reach with a delightful finish over the top of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fran/players/43614" href="https://thescore.com/fran/players/43614">Gianluigi Donnarumma</a> in the 43rd minute.Palmer, so often Chelsea's creative talisman, won the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player.Chelsea goalkeeper <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/100567" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/100567">Robert Sanchez</a> made a handful of impressive saves to stymie PSG whenever they did surge forward, ensuring there'd be no comeback.PSG finished the contest with 10 men after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fran/players/192306" href="https://thescore.com/fran/players/192306">Joao Neves</a> was sent off. Overcome by frustration, the diminutive midfielder pulled Chelsea left-back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///natleaguefnl/players/97392" href="https://thescore.com/natleaguefnl/players/97392">Marc Cucurella</a>'s hair in the closing minutes and received a red card after the referee was instructed to review the incident by the VAR.Tempers then boiled over after the final whistle, with both teams clashing on the pitch. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///intfr/players/87955" href="https://thescore.com/intfr/players/87955">Achraf Hakimi</a> was involved in a verbal altercation with Chelsea players. Luis Enrique appeared to swipe at Joao Pedro's face, sending the Brazilian forward to the turf."Chelsea were more effective than us, they worked well on our slight weakness," PSG captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fran/players/19670" href="https://thescore.com/fran/players/19670">Marquinhos</a> said after the match, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/report/_/gameId/735958">ESPN</a>. "Tactically, they caused us problems in the first half and we took a while to react. These are things we'll need to change going forward. I think all teams will now study us closely to see what we do well and what we do badly. It's up to us now to always be at the top of our game."The loss was one of the heaviest in PSG's recent history. The last team to beat the French champions by three goals was Newcastle United, who earned a 4-1 Champions League victory in October 2023. PSG hadn't conceded three goals in the first half of a match in 134 games, a streak dating back to February 2023.However, they had no answer for Chelsea, as Maresca and his players flooded the pitch after the final whistle to celebrate their second trophy in quick succession following their UEFA Conference League triumph in late May.Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who sat beside one another during the game, presented the players with their medals. The former stayed on stage while Chelsea captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engch/players/31412" href="https://thescore.com/engch/players/31412">Reece James</a> hoisted the trophy.MetLife Stadium, which staged FIFA's first-ever Super Bowl-style halftime show Sunday, will host another trophy celebration for a major soccer competition next year as the site of the 2026 World Cup final.

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - JULY 13: Reece James #24 of Chelsea lifts the FIFA Club World Cup trophy after their team's victory following the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Final match between Chelsea FC and Paris Saint-Germain at MetLife Stadium on July 13, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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Chelsea stun PSG to win Club World Cup

Canadian striker Jonathan David joined Juventus on a five-year contract.  David, 25, arrived in T...

Canadian striker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///concagc/players/159817" href="https://thescore.com/concagc/players/159817">Jonathan David</a> joined Juventus on a five-year contract.David, 25, arrived in Turin on Friday to undergo a medical before officially signing his deal and being unveiled by the club.The Italian side came to terms with the coveted free agent shortly following its exit from the Club World Cup earlier this week, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45640268/canadas-jonathan-david-agrees-sign-juventus-sources">Matteo Moretto of ESPN</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🗣️ First words in Bianconero! Watch Jonathan David’s first full interview as a Juventus player 📺⤵️— JuventusFC 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@juventusfcen) <a href="https://twitter.com/juventusfcen/status/1941225506743132209?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The all-time leading scorer for Canada's men's national team, David became a free agent this summer after spending the last five seasons at Lille. He scored 87 league goals for the club in that time, and helped Lille win the Ligue 1 title in 2020-21. Across all competitions, he found the net 109 times in 232 games.He's registered 34 goals in 63 appearances for Canada, and captained the team at this summer's Gold Cup.David was reportedly being tracked by several of Europe's top sides in recent years."I want a club with ambition that wants to do something," he told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6080133/2025/07/02/jonathan-david-juventus-transfer/">Joshua Kloke of The Athletic</a> in June about his plans after Lille. "Obviously, I would love to fight for titles, to win titles. A team that's competitive, that has ambition, really, with a good sporting project."He joins a Juventus side looking to build on last season's fourth-place finish. As he did last year with Lille, David will once again get the opportunity to play in the Champions League.He scored against Juventus when the two teams met in Europe's top competition last season.His arrival makes him the club's first official signing of the summer and further casts doubt on the future of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/68513" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/68513">Dusan Vlahovic</a>. The high-priced Serbian striker, who has one year remaining on his contract, was an unused substitute in Juve's 1-0 last-16 loss to Real Madrid in the Club World Cup.Juventus are reportedly in talks with Paris Saint-Germain to extend forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///natleaguefnl/players/91733" href="https://thescore.com/natleaguefnl/players/91733">Randal Kolo Muani</a>'s loan. The Frenchman played the full 90 minutes against Madrid and, if he remains, figures to be David's primary competition for starting minutes unless manager Igor Tudor opts for a tactical change that would allow the pair to play up front together.

TURIN, ITALY - JULY 4: Juventus new signing Jonathan David at Juventus headquarters on July 4, 2025 in Turin, Italy.

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Canada star David joins Juventus on free transfer

Zlatan Ibrahimovic defended Lionel Messi and ripped the rest of Inter Miami's squad following the...

Zlatan Ibrahimovic defended <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1126" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1126">Lionel Messi</a> and ripped the rest of Inter Miami's squad following the team's elimination from the Club World Cup, comparing the Argentine star's supporting cast to "statues."Miami was crushed 4-0 by Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain in the round of 16 this past weekend, and Ibrahimovic, who played with Messi at Barcelona, was not impressed by what he saw around the iconic No. 10. "It wasn't Leo Messi who lost; it was Inter Miami," the former Swedish star said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45627646/zlatan-ibrahimovic-lionel-messi-plays-statues-inter-miami">ESPN</a>. "Messi plays with statues, not teammates. He's surrounded by players who run as if they were carrying bags of cement."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Ibrahimovic, who retired in 2023 after a decorated 24-year career that included stops at several of Europe's most storied clubs, also played in MLS, spending two seasons with the LA Galaxy. He scored 52 goals in 53 starts for the team.He bemoaned the fact that fans in the United States didn't get to see the best of Messi at the Club World Cup. Ibrahimovic said Miami, which also has veterans <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/4433" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/4433">Luis Suarez</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1114" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1114">Sergio Busquets</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1341" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1341">Jordi Alba</a> on the roster, lacks talent around its captain."This isn't the Messi I know," Ibrahimovic said. "If you put him in a real team, he'd go all-out. There are no coaches, no stars, not even players who understand how to move without the ball. If he were on a real team, any great team, you'd see the real lion."He added: "Messi plays alone because he loves the game, because he can still do what 99% of players can't. But this isn't the Messi I know."

(GERMANY OUT) FUSSBALL CHAMPIONS LEAGUE SAISON 2014/2015 Vorrunde FC Barcelona - Paris St. Germain Lionel Messi (li, Barca) begruesst Zlatan Ibrahimovic (Paris Saint-Germain) am Ball

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Zlatan defends Messi after CWC exit: He plays with 'statues' at Inter Miami

Toronto FC reached mutual agreements to terminate the contracts of Lorenzo Insigne and Federico B...

Toronto FC reached mutual agreements to terminate the contracts of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/7611" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/7611">Lorenzo Insigne</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/21263" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/21263">Federico Bernardeschi</a>, the club announced Tuesday.The two Italians will now become free agents, and the move will open up two Designated Player (DP) spots on Toronto FC's roster.Bernardeschi is in talks to return to Italy with Bologna, according to transfer insider <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1940042359577723017">Fabrizio Romano</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Insigne and Bernardeschi were among the highest-paid players in Major League Soccer in 2025. Insigne's $15.4-million salary was second behind only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1126" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1126">Lionel Messi</a> this season, while Bernardeschi ranked sixth. Combined, the underperforming stars had a guaranteed compensation of $21.6 million this year, which is more than the total payroll of all but seven clubs in the league.The move brings to an end a bitterly disappointing era for TFC.Insigne and Bernardeschi, shortly after being crowned Euro 2020 champions with Italy, arrived in Toronto as free agents amid much fanfare in 2022. The former left boyhood club Napoli before joining the Canadian team, while the latter was previously at Juventus.They were both recruited by former club president Bill Manning, who himself parted ways with TFC last year. That move came shortly after Keith Pelley was named CEO of MLSE, the club's parent company.Pelley said Tuesday that the DP strategy is a "critical component to Toronto FC's success."Neither Insigne nor Bernardeschi ever looked truly comfortable in MLS.Insigne, in particular, was a source of constant frustration for fans and multiple coaching staffs. He registered only 15 goals in 66 MLS games, and missed significant stretches of time with injury in each of his three years in Toronto. Bernardeschi was able to produce decent numbers in 2024 and, in general, looked more content than his compatriot, but he too ultimately failed to live up to the significant hype. The left-footed playmaker racked up 25 goals and 12 assists in 88 league appearances.TFC haven't made the playoffs since the former Italian internationals arrived, and finished last in the league in 2023.The club is struggling again this season, with just four wins in 19 league matches thus far.

TORONTO, ON - August 30 In second half action, Federico Bernardeschi (10) of Toronto FC on the left and Lorenzo Insigne share a hug at the end of the match. Toronto FC beat the Philadelphia Union 3-1 in MLS soccer action at BMO field. August 30 2023 (Richard Lautens/Toronto Star via Getty Images)

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Toronto FC part ways with Insigne and Bernardeschi

Canada was knocked out of the 2025 Gold Cup by underdog Guatemala on Sunday, falling 6-5 on penal...

Canada was knocked out of the 2025 Gold Cup by underdog Guatemala on Sunday, falling 6-5 on penalties after the tense quarterfinal match finished 1-1 in normal time.The loss means Canada now has no competitive fixtures left to play before co-hosting next summer's 2026 World Cup with the United States and Mexico. The team will use friendly matches to prepare for the tournament.Canada was leading 1-0 through a 30th-minute goal from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///concagc/players/159817" href="https://thescore.com/concagc/players/159817">Jonathan David</a> and seemingly in control until <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///concagc/players/159283" href="https://thescore.com/concagc/players/159283">Jacob Shaffelburg</a> received a second yellow card and was sent off in first-half stoppage time. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Guatemala took full advantage after the break, dictating play before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///concagc/players/86131" href="https://thescore.com/concagc/players/86131">Rubio Rubin</a> equalized with an emphatic header in the 69th minute that enlivened the partisan crowd at U.S. Bank Stadium.Neither side could find a winning goal in the remaining minutes, and the scrappy contest went straight to penalties after the final whistle.David, whose first-half goal came from the spot, wasn't available to take a penalty after being substituted late in the contest. The striker, wearing the captain's armband once again in the absence of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/69320" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/69320">Alphonso Davies</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///concagc/players/134054" href="https://thescore.com/concagc/players/134054">Stephen Eustaquio</a>, required treatment multiple times in the second half, and was clearly struggling physically before finally being taken off.His replacement, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/209864" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/209864">Promise David</a>, opened the shootout with a goal. Every other taker found the net until veteran striker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///concagc/players/40740" href="https://thescore.com/concagc/players/40740">Cyle Larin</a>, who had his weak effort denied. Guatemala could've ended it there, but captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///concagc/players/159621" href="https://thescore.com/concagc/players/159621">Jose Pinto</a> fired his potential game-winning shot well over the crossbar and into the stands.The shootout then went to sudden death, where Canadian defender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///intfr/players/199996" href="https://thescore.com/intfr/players/199996">Luc de Fougerolles</a> blasted his effort off the underside of the bar. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///concagc/players/183522" href="https://thescore.com/concagc/players/183522">Jose Morales</a> then stepped up to slot home the winning spot-kick and send Guatemala to the Gold Cup semifinals for the first time since 1996, when the tournament had only nine teams and no quarterfinal stage.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
It's over. 💔<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CanMNT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CanMNT</a> <a href="https://t.co/372mLC9Qj6">pic.twitter.com/372mLC9Qj6</a>— OneSoccer (@onesoccer) <a href="https://twitter.com/onesoccer/status/1939449679659557237?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Canadian goalkeeper <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///concagc/players/148088" href="https://thescore.com/concagc/players/148088">Dayne St. Clair</a>, picked by head coach Jesse Marsch to start over <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///concagc/players/22068" href="https://thescore.com/concagc/players/22068">Maxime Crepeau</a>, got close to stopping two penalties, even getting his hand to one effort, but was ultimately unable to help Canada avoid the surprising ouster from the competition."If I'm honest, we're missing half of our group," Marsch said after the match, according to <a href="https://x.com/tombogert/status/1939457801434140995">Tom Bogert of GiveMeSport</a>. "That's not an excuse ... We fell short and that's painful."He added: "I believe in these guys entirely."Canada suffers its second consecutive shootout elimination at the Gold Cup after falling to the Unites States in the same manner in 2023. The Canadians were looking for their second Gold Cup title, and first since 2000.Guatemala, enjoying an unlikely run, will play the United States in the semifinals after the Americans beat Costa Rica in a quarterfinal shootout of their own Sunday night.Defending champion Mexico plays Honduras in the other semifinal.The Gold Cup final will take place July 6.

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - JUNE 29: Darwin Lom #14 of Guatemala celebrates after defeating Canada in penalty kicks during the Gold Cup 2025 Quarter Finals match between Guatemala and Canada at U.S. Bank Stadium on June 29, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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