National Handloom Day 2026: From Alia Bhatt to Samantha Ruth Prabhu; Actresses who celebrated India's textile heritage as brides

The Royals enter the Doctor Who universe: King Charles and Queen Camilla beam into Commonwealth Games in TARDIS

Unitree Robotics targets $9 billion valuation in landmark IPO backed by DeepSeek and Tencent

India names 27 sites in Arunachal Pradesh

Bharat Bhhagya Viddhaata OTT: When will Kangana Ranaut's film stream online?

How many soldiers operate one S-400 battery?

Shakib Al Hasan ready to return to Bangladesh—under one condition

‘Fake news’: MEA rejects report claiming India sought defence pact with Israel after Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey deal

Rockstar to unveil GTA 6 extended look ahead of November launch

Russia forms Ukrainian Volunteer Spetsnaz Brigade to fight Ukraine

Drug-resistant fungus that hides in hair and enters bloodstream reported in 23 US states

Technology transfer deal boosts India's defence manufacturing ambitions

Border row erupts in Europe after Ceuta crossings, Spain imposes border controls on Italy

Morale plummets on USS Abraham Lincoln: Are US sailors reaching a breaking point? | GRAVITAS

'Security can't be bought with Pakistan, Turkey deal': Iran tells Saudi Arabia

Baba Vanga's 2026 prophecy: 2 predictions 'already came true', 3 terrifying ones remain. Details inside

Colombia’s new president Abelardo de la Espriella vows to ‘defeat narco-terrorists’, signals hardline shift

New Friday OTT releases (August 7, 2026): Operation Safed Sagar, Vadhandhi, Main Vaapis Aaunga- 6 movies and TV shows on Netflix, Prime Video and more

Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth scripts history as Indian Air Force gets its first woman ‘Top Gun’ pilot

RSS says Gen Z protests reflect genuine distress

Trump says Iranian school bombing photos could be AI-generated - 'I don’t think...'

IAF officer held for sharing sensitive information in 'honey trap' case, booked under Official Secrets Act

Stray Kids under scrutiny? Fans react to Grammy submission silence after BTS boycott

Why the Su-30MKI doesn't need external fuel tanks to fly vast distances

Jugal Hansraj reunites with Shekhar Kapur after 40 years for Masoom: The Next Generation

New speed limits, automatic challans: Big traffic change coming to Delhi-Meerut Expressway. All you need to know

India officially names 27 places in Arunachal to counter China's renaming claims

Trump calls White House ballroom ruling a 'national disgrace' as court says Congress approval needed

US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance

Why the Su-30MKI is one of the heaviest fighters ever built

Uttarakhand young innovator builds India's own flying vehicle, conducts first test flight: WATCH

Chilling video shows students take cover as teen opens fire at Thai school

Reese Witherspoon's father hospitalised after poolside incident in Nashville: Report

Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich retained the German Supercup after beating old foes Borussia Dortmund in the season-opening game on Saturday (Aug 22). Playmaker Michael Olise powered his team to a massive win with a goal and an assist against Dortmund. Following a stunning FIFA World Cup in North America, Olise picked up from where he left off last season, regularly tearing down the right flank. He first assisted Nathaniel Brown for his team’s opener in the 28th minute before hammering one in close to halftime. &nbsp;Former Wolves striker Fabio Silva helped Dortmund find the net in the second half, but it wasn’t enough as Bayern walked out as winners in the end. "It's a magnificent victory to kick off the season," Bayern striker Harry Kane said in a chat with Sky. "Winning the trophy away at our league rival's home stadium is, of course, a great start to the season."&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-hull-city-stun-manchester-united-2-0-for-first-ever-win-over-red-devils-1787409257588">Premier League: Hull City stun Manchester United 2-0 for first-ever win over Red Devils</a> &nbsp;Bayern were not at their best against Dortmund, but had enough quality to see off a rebuilding Dortmund team playing the season opener for the first time since 2021. The win over their rivals saw Bayern lift the trophy for the record 12th time, and the second consecutive time since it was renamed for club legend Franz Beckenbauer in 2025. &nbsp;Bayern coach Vincent Kompany said the win showed his side had the hunger to repeat last year's heroics. &nbsp;"Some people maybe think we'll have a drop because we won everything last year. But that won't be the case; we won't rest and will try to win everything," Kompany said. &nbsp;Meanwhile, with new German coach Jurgen Klopp watching on, Bayern boss Kompany pulled a selection shock by naming left-back Brown behind Kane in attacking midfield. Summer arrival Brown seemed to struggle in the unfamiliar role early but was on the spot to put Bayern in front. &nbsp;An on-rushing Olise was felled on the edge of the box, but the ball fell to Brown, who calmly slotted home. &nbsp;Bayern will face VfB Stuttgart in their Bundesliga opener on August 29.&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Michael Olise scored and provided an assist as Bayern Munich beat Borussia Dortmund 2-1 to retain the German Supercup and kick off their season with silverware.

Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich retained the German Supercup after beating old foes Borussia Dortmund in the season-opening game on Saturday (Aug 22). Playmaker Michael Olise powered his team to a massive win with a goal and an assist against Dortmund. Following a stunning FIFA World Cup in North America, Olise picked up from where he left off last season, regularly tearing down the right flank. He first assisted Nathaniel Brown for his team’s opener in the 28th minute before hammering one in close to halftime. Former Wolves striker Fabio Silva helped Dortmund find the net in the second half, but it wasn’t enough as Bayern walked out as winners in the end. "It's a magnificent victory to kick off the season," Bayern striker Harry Kane said in a chat with Sky. "Winning the trophy away at our league rival's home stadium is, of course, a great start to the season." Also read| Premier League: Hull City stun Manchester United 2-0 for first-ever win over Red Devils Bayern were not at their best against Dortmund, but had enough quality to see off a rebuilding Dortmund team playing the season opener for the first time since 2021. The win over their rivals saw Bayern lift the trophy for the record 12th time, and the second consecutive time since it was renamed for club legend Franz Beckenbauer in 2025. Bayern coach Vincent Kompany said the win showed his side had the hunger to repeat last year's heroics. "Some people maybe think we'll have a drop because we won everything last year. But that won't be the case; we won't rest and will try to win everything," Kompany said. Meanwhile, with new German coach Jurgen Klopp watching on, Bayern boss Kompany pulled a selection shock by naming left-back Brown behind Kane in attacking midfield. Summer arrival Brown seemed to struggle in the unfamiliar role early but was on the spot to put Bayern in front. An on-rushing Olise was felled on the edge of the box, but the ball fell to Brown, who calmly slotted home. Bayern will face VfB Stuttgart in their Bundesliga opener on August 29. (With inputs from AFP)

Michael Olise scored and provided an assist as Bayern Munich beat Borussia Dortmund 2-1 to retain the German Supercup and kick off their season with silverware.

German Supercup: Olise masterclass powers Bayern past Dortmund to retain title

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta felt his team’s 3-0 win over Coventry in the opening game of the Premier League season on Friday (Aug 21) proved that the Gunners have not lost their hunger for silverware. Picking up from where they left off last season, when Arsenal ended their 22-year wait for a league title, they cruised to a comfortable win, thanks to goals from Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard at the Emirates Stadium. Arteta, whose Arsenal is already touted as title favourites this season, was encouraged by his team’s relentless pressing against Frank Lampard’s promoted Coventry. &nbsp;"They look exactly the same (as last season) to me. What I did transmit to them was to show more desire and earn the right to be better than everyone else," Arteta said. "There was a lot to like from the performance. It was a great result but also the manner we started the game. &nbsp;"It was domination, clarity and understanding. It was really impressive."&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-inter-miami-fined-mls-disciplinary-committee-philadelphia-union-1787370886080">Lionel Messi and Inter Miami teammate fined by MLS for stoppage-time slap incident</a> &nbsp;Back from the off-season break, the Arsenal players never lost that touch and connection, as shown in their first win of the season. &nbsp;"We were so dominant, we had incredible connections, we were really accurate with the ball," Arteta said. “The players have to be decisive, and they were today. They looked really connected and played with a lot of purpose.”<h2>All eyes on Bruno Guimaraes</h2>Since joining Arsenal from Newcastle United ahead of the season, Brazilian midfielder Bruno Guimaraes suffered an injury; however, Arteta does not expect him to miss action for long. Speaking on his recovery and comeback, Arteta said, "We don't expect it to be weeks at all.” &nbsp;Odegaard, on the other hand, hailed Arsenal's ideal opening to the new campaign. &nbsp;"The perfect start. Three goals and a clean sheet. It was really solid," the Gunners midfielder said. "The team's quality is unbelievable; we see that every day in training. The level we compete at is unbelievable, and we all push each other." &nbsp;"We don't feel we have to defend anything. We want to do it again, and that's the mindset,” he said of Arsenal's belief in retaining the title. "Last year is finished now; we want to do it again, and we want to attack it and fight for it again."

Mikel Arteta praised Arsenal's "domination and clarity" after a 3-0 victory over Coventry in their Premier League opener. Read quotes from Arteta, Odegaard, and Bruno Guimaraes updates.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta felt his team’s 3-0 win over Coventry in the opening game of the Premier League season on Friday (Aug 21) proved that the Gunners have not lost their hunger for silverware. Picking up from where they left off last season, when Arsenal ended their 22-year wait for a league title, they cruised to a comfortable win, thanks to goals from Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard at the Emirates Stadium. Arteta, whose Arsenal is already touted as title favourites this season, was encouraged by his team’s relentless pressing against Frank Lampard’s promoted Coventry. "They look exactly the same (as last season) to me. What I did transmit to them was to show more desire and earn the right to be better than everyone else," Arteta said. "There was a lot to like from the performance. It was a great result but also the manner we started the game. "It was domination, clarity and understanding. It was really impressive." Also read| Lionel Messi and Inter Miami teammate fined by MLS for stoppage-time slap incident Back from the off-season break, the Arsenal players never lost that touch and connection, as shown in their first win of the season. "We were so dominant, we had incredible connections, we were really accurate with the ball," Arteta said. “The players have to be decisive, and they were today. They looked really connected and played with a lot of purpose.” All eyes on Bruno Guimaraes Since joining Arsenal from Newcastle United ahead of the season, Brazilian midfielder Bruno Guimaraes suffered an injury; however, Arteta does not expect him to miss action for long. Speaking on his recovery and comeback, Arteta said, "We don't expect it to be weeks at all.” Odegaard, on the other hand, hailed Arsenal's ideal opening to the new campaign. "The perfect start. Three goals and a clean sheet. It was really solid," the Gunners midfielder said. "The team's quality is unbelievable; we see that every day in training. The level we compete at is unbelievable, and we all push each other." "We don't feel we have to defend anything. We want to do it again, and that's the mindset,” he said of Arsenal's belief in retaining the title. "Last year is finished now; we want to do it again, and we want to attack it and fight for it again."

Mikel Arteta praised Arsenal's "domination and clarity" after a 3-0 victory over Coventry in their Premier League opener. Read quotes from Arteta, Odegaard, and Bruno Guimaraes updates.

‘Domination, clarity and understanding’: Arteta hails Arsenal’s perfect start to Premier League title charge

Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammate defender Ian Fray were slapped with undisclosed fines by the Major League Soccer (MLS) Disciplinary Committee for violating the league’s policy on hands-to-face, head or neck of an opponent, the league announced on Friday (Aug 21). Following the stoppage-time incident in the 101st minute of Miami’s 2-2 draw with host Philadelphia Union on Wednesday, the two players received punishments for striking an opponent. &nbsp;Also during the fixture, tempers flared up in the second-half stoppage time as Miami's Yannick Bright and Philadelphia's Cavan ​Sullivan were shown red cards.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/paredes-handed-10-game-ban-as-fifa-suspends-three-argentina-players-over-world-cup-final-chaos-1787329246159">Paredes handed 10-game ban as FIFA suspends three Argentina players over World Cup final chaos</a> &nbsp;Cavan, however, was relieved of his punishment when his one-game suspension and accompanying fine for the red card were rescinded. The Independent Review Panel, consisting of one representative from U.S. Soccer, one representative from ​Canada Soccer and one independent representative nominated by the Professional ​Referee Organisation, unanimously voted in his favour for the incident that occurred in the 102nd minute. &nbsp;Meanwhile, it was late in stoppage time when Miami star Messi approached the centre circle to confront Quinn Sullivan while the ball was in play at the other side of the pitch. Following a brief exchange, Messi struck Quinn on the back of his neck, who then squared up to the footballing great in a fight-style stare-down.&nbsp;WATCH VIDEO -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Lionel Messi slapping 22-year-old USMNT and Philadelphia Union forward Quinn Sullivan in the back of the head 😮 <a href="https://t.co/E87sMnhvng">pic.twitter.com/E87sMnhvng</a>&mdash; USMNT Only (@usmntonly) <a href="https://x.com/usmntonly/status/2090461793214927330?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Referee Filip Dujic, who had his back turned during the incident, arrived to separate the players but did not show either of them a card. Dujic later did send off Cavan Sullivan, younger brother and teammate of Quinn, and Miami's Italian midfielder Yannick Bright after their stoppage-time scuffle in Miami's penalty area. &nbsp;Messi, on the other hand, received a penalty for breaching the league’s policy.

MLS has fined Lionel Messi and Inter Miami defender Ian Fray over a stoppage-time hands-to-face incident against the Philadelphia Union. Read the full disciplinary details and match updates.

Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammate defender Ian Fray were slapped with undisclosed fines by the Major League Soccer (MLS) Disciplinary Committee for violating the league’s policy on hands-to-face, head or neck of an opponent, the league announced on Friday (Aug 21). Following the stoppage-time incident in the 101st minute of Miami’s 2-2 draw with host Philadelphia Union on Wednesday, the two players received punishments for striking an opponent. Also during the fixture, tempers flared up in the second-half stoppage time as Miami's Yannick Bright and Philadelphia's Cavan Sullivan were shown red cards. Also read| Paredes handed 10-game ban as FIFA suspends three Argentina players over World Cup final chaos Cavan, however, was relieved of his punishment when his one-game suspension and accompanying fine for the red card were rescinded. The Independent Review Panel, consisting of one representative from U.S. Soccer, one representative from Canada Soccer and one independent representative nominated by the Professional Referee Organisation, unanimously voted in his favour for the incident that occurred in the 102nd minute. Meanwhile, it was late in stoppage time when Miami star Messi approached the centre circle to confront Quinn Sullivan while the ball was in play at the other side of the pitch. Following a brief exchange, Messi struck Quinn on the back of his neck, who then squared up to the footballing great in a fight-style stare-down. WATCH VIDEO -

MLS has fined Lionel Messi and Inter Miami defender Ian Fray over a stoppage-time hands-to-face incident against the Philadelphia Union. Read the full disciplinary details and match updates.

Lionel Messi and Inter Miami teammate fined by MLS for stoppage-time slap incident

FIFA has taken disciplinary action against the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and several Argentina players and staff members over multiple incidents during the 2026 World Cup, including the confrontation after the final on Jul 19. The AFA has been fined USD 321,000 for several disciplinary violations. One of the incidents involved a banner displayed by some Argentina players after their semi-final win over England. It carried the message “Las Malvinas Son Argentinas”, which translates to “The Falklands are Argentine”.&nbsp;&nbsp;Argentina will also have to play its next home match in a stadium operating at only 50 per cent of its normal capacity. FIFA has suspended an additional stadium restriction and USD 100,000 of the fine on a probationary basis. Another USD 100,000 from the penalty must be used for an anti-discrimination programme.&nbsp;FIFA has also punished members of Argentina’s delegation for their roles in the post-final incident. Spanish player Pablo Martn Pez Gavira has also been suspended.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-pak-1st-test-england-crush-pakistan-by-an-innings-and-103-runs-1787323306846">ENG vs PAK, 1st Test: England crush Pakistan by an innings and 103 runs</a>&nbsp;Leandro Paredes received the biggest punishment among the Argentina players. He has been suspended for 10 matches and fined USD 90,000.&nbsp;Nahuel Molina has been handed a seven-match ban and fined USD 90,000, while Thiago Almada faces a one-match suspension and USD 30,000 fine and assistant coach Roberto Ayala has received a three-match ban and USD 30,000 fine.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jannik-sinner-withdraws-from-us-open-2026-due-to-knee-injury-1787323383729">Jannik Sinner withdraws from US Open 2026 due to Knee injury</a><h3>Player and team official punishments</h3><ul><li>Leandro Paredes (player): 10-match suspension and USD 90,000 fine</li><li>Nahuel Molina (player): Seven-match suspension and USD 90,000 fine</li><li>Thiago Almada (player): One-match suspension and USD 30,000 fine</li><li>Roberto Ayala (team official): Three-match suspension and USD 30,000 fine</li><li>Pablo Martn Pez Gavira (player): One-match suspension and USD 30,000 fine</li></ul>

FIFA has fined the AFA and suspended several Argentina players and staff following the World Cup final chaos, with additional sanctions imposed for disciplinary breaches, including the Falklands banner.

FIFA has taken disciplinary action against the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and several Argentina players and staff members over multiple incidents during the 2026 World Cup, including the confrontation after the final on Jul 19. The AFA has been fined USD 321,000 for several disciplinary violations. One of the incidents involved a banner displayed by some Argentina players after their semi-final win over England. It carried the message “Las Malvinas Son Argentinas”, which translates to “The Falklands are Argentine”. Argentina will also have to play its next home match in a stadium operating at only 50 per cent of its normal capacity. FIFA has suspended an additional stadium restriction and USD 100,000 of the fine on a probationary basis. Another USD 100,000 from the penalty must be used for an anti-discrimination programme. FIFA has also punished members of Argentina’s delegation for their roles in the post-final incident. Spanish player Pablo Martn Pez Gavira has also been suspended. Also Read - ENG vs PAK, 1st Test: England crush Pakistan by an innings and 103 runs Leandro Paredes received the biggest punishment among the Argentina players. He has been suspended for 10 matches and fined USD 90,000. Nahuel Molina has been handed a seven-match ban and fined USD 90,000, while Thiago Almada faces a one-match suspension and USD 30,000 fine and assistant coach Roberto Ayala has received a three-match ban and USD 30,000 fine. Also Read - Jannik Sinner withdraws from US Open 2026 due to Knee injury Player and team official punishments Leandro Paredes (player): 10-match suspension and USD 90,000 fine Nahuel Molina (player): Seven-match suspension and USD 90,000 fine Thiago Almada (player): One-match suspension and USD 30,000 fine Roberto Ayala (team official): Three-match suspension and USD 30,000 fine Pablo Martn Pez Gavira (player): One-match suspension and USD 30,000 fine

FIFA has fined the AFA and suspended several Argentina players and staff following the World Cup final chaos, with additional sanctions imposed for disciplinary breaches, including the Falklands banner.

Paredes handed 10-game ban as FIFA suspends three Argentina players over World Cup final chaos

Former Brazilian superstar Ronaldinho is set to make a comeback to professional football at 46. The famous footballer had last played in a professional match more than a decade ago in 2015 for Fluminense. He has now signed with Italy's third-division Serie C club Ravenna. The former Ballon d'Or winner (2005) has confirmed that he will play for, even if 'for a few minutes' before being introduced to the fans. Ronaldinho has joined the club as a shareholder and a registered player as well, fuelling the possibilities to him playing in one of the matches.<h2>What did Ronaldinho say about playing at 46?</h2>Ronaldinho was presented to fans amid much fanfare and was asked if he would play a professional match, to which, while talking to Flashscore, he replied: "Yes, it’s true! Let’s say it’s a challenge for me, too. I will certainly play a few minutes in an official match, then we’ll see how I feel."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-2026-announces-record-prize-money-including-140k-for-first-round-losers-1787283363057">US Open 2026 announces record prize money, including $140k for first-round losers</a>The former Barcelona and AC Milan player was also asked about his fitness, to which he said: "I’ll do my best. In any case, I will be part of the Ravenna project, and I can tell you there are many new developments to come."<h2>Ravenna president on Ronaldinho signing</h2>While the news of Roanldinho coming out of retirement got the fans excited, it had every bit of skepticism as well with the footballer being 46. Ravenna president Ignazio Cipriani, however, has quashed the 'marketing gimmick' narrative in plain words."This is not a simple facade or a marketing ‘play’ to get people talking about us. Ronaldinho will become a shareholder in Ravenna. That is the central point of the operation," Cipriani said."In addition, he has decided to make an immense gift to this city and his new team: he will take to the field for an official professional match with Ravenna. He will play with one clear and romantic objective: to try to score the final goal of his career."<h2>Ronaldinho's career in numbers</h2>The mid-fielder was part of Brazil's fifth and last FIFA World Cup win in 2002 where he scored two goals. He also took part in 2006 edition, but did not score any goal. As for club football, he has played for Barcelona in La Liga, AC Milan in Serie A, and Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1, scoring 70 goals for Barcelona (145 matches), 20 goals for AC Milan (76 matches), 17 goals for PSG (55 matches).

Former World Cup winner Ronaldinho, 46, has signed with Serie C's Ravenna as a shareholder and player. Set for a brief final appearance, he aims to score his career's last goal after a decade away.

Former Brazilian superstar Ronaldinho is set to make a comeback to professional football at 46. The famous footballer had last played in a professional match more than a decade ago in 2015 for Fluminense. He has now signed with Italy's third-division Serie C club Ravenna. The former Ballon d'Or winner (2005) has confirmed that he will play for, even if 'for a few minutes' before being introduced to the fans. Ronaldinho has joined the club as a shareholder and a registered player as well, fuelling the possibilities to him playing in one of the matches. What did Ronaldinho say about playing at 46? Ronaldinho was presented to fans amid much fanfare and was asked if he would play a professional match, to which, while talking to Flashscore, he replied: "Yes, it’s true! Let’s say it’s a challenge for me, too. I will certainly play a few minutes in an official match, then we’ll see how I feel." Also Read - US Open 2026 announces record prize money, including $140k for first-round losers The former Barcelona and AC Milan player was also asked about his fitness, to which he said: "I’ll do my best. In any case, I will be part of the Ravenna project, and I can tell you there are many new developments to come." Ravenna president on Ronaldinho signing While the news of Roanldinho coming out of retirement got the fans excited, it had every bit of skepticism as well with the footballer being 46. Ravenna president Ignazio Cipriani, however, has quashed the 'marketing gimmick' narrative in plain words. "This is not a simple facade or a marketing ‘play’ to get people talking about us. Ronaldinho will become a shareholder in Ravenna. That is the central point of the operation," Cipriani said. "In addition, he has decided to make an immense gift to this city and his new team: he will take to the field for an official professional match with Ravenna. He will play with one clear and romantic objective: to try to score the final goal of his career." Ronaldinho's career in numbers The mid-fielder was part of Brazil's fifth and last FIFA World Cup win in 2002 where he scored two goals. He also took part in 2006 edition, but did not score any goal. As for club football, he has played for Barcelona in La Liga, AC Milan in Serie A, and Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1, scoring 70 goals for Barcelona (145 matches), 20 goals for AC Milan (76 matches), 17 goals for PSG (55 matches).

Former World Cup winner Ronaldinho, 46, has signed with Serie C's Ravenna as a shareholder and player. Set for a brief final appearance, he aims to score his career's last goal after a decade away.

FIFA World Cup 2002 winner Ronaldinho, 46, set for unbelievable professional comeback

A FIFA vice-president has withdrawn his support for world football body president Gianni Infantino, saying the “unexpected dismissal” of Kevin Lamour was the “final straw”.Frenchman Lamour was FIFA’s chief operating officer, but his position became difficult after he criticised Infantino last month and spoke out against his now-rejected plan to allow private investment in World Cups.&nbsp;In a letter sent to Infantino on Tuesday, FIFA vice-president and council member Sandor Csanyi of Hungary said Infantino had “lost the confidence I previously placed in you”.&nbsp;Csanyi, a billionaire businessman, banker and head of the Hungarian Football Federation (MLSZ), said, “My conviction that you are capable of continuing to lead FIFA successfully and effectively in accordance with the shared values that previously formed the basis of our cooperation has been undermined.”&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harry-kane-wins-second-european-golden-shoe-award-and-has-no-itch-to-return-to-premier-league-1787212858836">Harry Kane wins second European Golden Shoe award and has 'no itch' to return to Premier League</a>&nbsp;The letter also mentioned “a number of controversial decisions” related to this year’s World Cup. Csanyi said Infantino had been working “on plans to outsource FIFA competitions and place them in the hands of external parties”.&nbsp;“The final straw was the unexpected dismissal of Kevin Lamour,” the letter said, adding that it “points to serious shortcomings in professional judgement, ethical standards and leadership”.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-ashwin-says-jadeja-not-attacking-anymore-as-suthar-steps-up-1787200098549">IND vs SL: Ashwin says 'Jadeja not attacking anymore' as Suthar steps up</a>&nbsp;On Tuesday, UEFA vice-president Laura McAllister also criticised FIFA’s decision to dismiss Lamour, saying it sent a “deeply troubling message to all of us seeking change”.

Support for FIFA president Gianni Infantino is weakening, with more national football federations and FIFA officials turning against him following COO Kevin Lamour’s departure, described by one FIFA vice-president as the “final straw.”

A FIFA vice-president has withdrawn his support for world football body president Gianni Infantino, saying the “unexpected dismissal” of Kevin Lamour was the “final straw”. Frenchman Lamour was FIFA’s chief operating officer, but his position became difficult after he criticised Infantino last month and spoke out against his now-rejected plan to allow private investment in World Cups. In a letter sent to Infantino on Tuesday, FIFA vice-president and council member Sandor Csanyi of Hungary said Infantino had “lost the confidence I previously placed in you”. Csanyi, a billionaire businessman, banker and head of the Hungarian Football Federation (MLSZ), said, “My conviction that you are capable of continuing to lead FIFA successfully and effectively in accordance with the shared values that previously formed the basis of our cooperation has been undermined.” Also Read - Harry Kane wins second European Golden Shoe award and has 'no itch' to return to Premier League The letter also mentioned “a number of controversial decisions” related to this year’s World Cup. Csanyi said Infantino had been working “on plans to outsource FIFA competitions and place them in the hands of external parties”. “The final straw was the unexpected dismissal of Kevin Lamour,” the letter said, adding that it “points to serious shortcomings in professional judgement, ethical standards and leadership”. Also Read - IND vs SL: Ashwin says 'Jadeja not attacking anymore' as Suthar steps up On Tuesday, UEFA vice-president Laura McAllister also criticised FIFA’s decision to dismiss Lamour, saying it sent a “deeply troubling message to all of us seeking change”.

Support for FIFA president Gianni Infantino is weakening, with more national football federations and FIFA officials turning against him following COO Kevin Lamour’s departure, described by one FIFA vice-president as the “final straw.”

Infantino faces fresh setback as senior FIFA official pulls support

England skipper Harry Kane, who left Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur for German Bundesliga's Bayern Munich in 2023, has won the European Golden Shoe award for most goals for second time in three seasons. He scored 36 goals for Bayern Munich, accumulating 72 points to win his second European Golden Shoe award. He had previously won the award in 2023/24 season, scoring the same number of goals for the same side. Last year, Kylian Mbappe had won the European Golden Shoe for 31 goals for Real Madrid in La Liga.<h2>Will Kane be back in Premier League?</h2>Ever since Kane left the Premier League for Bayern in 2023, the speculation about him coming back has been constant. The England striker himself admitted wanting to come back at some point but said that there's no 'itch' anymore.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-pakistan-fih-hockey-world-cup-5-3-result-1787151650355">India outclass Pakistan 5-3 to qualify for second round at FIH World Cup</a>"When I first left (Spurs), for sure it was something that I thought I’d definitely be coming back," Kane told FourFourTwo magazine after receiving the European Golden Shoe on Wednesday (Aug 19).

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🥇 𝗚𝗢𝗟𝗗𝗘𝗡 𝗦𝗛𝗢𝗘 𝗪𝗜𝗡𝗡𝗘𝗥 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲 🥇 Huge congrats, <a href="https://x.com/HKane?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HKane</a>! No one deserves this more than you! ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/Cg14rKbQZb">pic.twitter.com/Cg14rKbQZb</a>&mdash; FC Bayern München (@FCBayern) <a href="https://x.com/FCBayern/status/2090086923662414310?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"That itch isn’t there as much anymore. I’m extremely happy here in Munich. It’s opened my eyes to a totally different world of football outside of England. I never say never but, for now, I’m concentrating on Bayern Munich, and we’ll see what the future holds."<h2>Kane in Bundesliga vs Premier League</h2>The striker has scored 98 goals for Bayern Munich in Bundesliga, three in Club World Cup, 11 in German Cup, one in German Super Cup, and 33 in UEFA Champions League. In Premier League, Kane has scored 213 goals for Spurs, 47 less than Alan Shearer's league record of 260 goals.Kane's contract with the German side has 12 months left but the striker revealed earlier this week that "both sides are relaxed" about a possible extension."We obviously said we wanted to talk after the World Cup and after my holiday. So I'm not sure exactly when, but they'll start this week, next week ... we'll start those talks. Like I've said before, we're calm, I think they're calm with the situation."

Harry Kane won his second European Golden Shoe with 36 Bayern Munich goals. Despite being 47 goals off Alan Shearer's Premier League record, Kane lacks the "itch" to return and is eyeing a contract extension.

England skipper Harry Kane, who left Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur for German Bundesliga's Bayern Munich in 2023, has won the European Golden Shoe award for most goals for second time in three seasons. He scored 36 goals for Bayern Munich, accumulating 72 points to win his second European Golden Shoe award. He had previously won the award in 2023/24 season, scoring the same number of goals for the same side. Last year, Kylian Mbappe had won the European Golden Shoe for 31 goals for Real Madrid in La Liga. Will Kane be back in Premier League? Ever since Kane left the Premier League for Bayern in 2023, the speculation about him coming back has been constant. The England striker himself admitted wanting to come back at some point but said that there's no 'itch' anymore. Also Read - India outclass Pakistan 5-3 to qualify for second round at FIH World Cup "When I first left (Spurs), for sure it was something that I thought I’d definitely be coming back," Kane told FourFourTwo magazine after receiving the European Golden Shoe on Wednesday (Aug 19).

Harry Kane won his second European Golden Shoe with 36 Bayern Munich goals. Despite being 47 goals off Alan Shearer's Premier League record, Kane lacks the "itch" to return and is eyeing a contract extension.

Harry Kane wins second European Golden Shoe award and has 'no itch' to return to Premier League

Bayern Munich midfielder Jamal Musiala said he is suffering from a neurological disorder after a second on-field collapse in three days on Tuesday. The 23-year-old Germany international fell to the turf just minutes after coming on late in a pre-season friendly at Heidenheim. A similar incident took place on Saturday in Bayern's home win over RB Leipzig. On Tuesday in Heidenheim, Musiala appeared dazed as he received medical treatment and was helped off the pitch.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/harry-kane-set-to-extend-bayern-munich-contract-beyond-2027-1787058658611">Harry Kane set for extended Bayern Munich stay as contract negotiations begin</a>Musiala later revealed on social media that he had a disorder which could lead to "temporary but treatable seizures"."I have been diagnosed with brief, temporary episodes of absence that are easily treatable and are caused by a neurological dysfunction," Musiala said."These can lead to the moments that have occurred recently, such as against Leipzig and now in Heidenheim."I know that they may seem scary at first glance - but for me, they are currently simply part of my everyday life."Musiala added that he was "incredibly grateful for all your messages and your support"."I am receiving the best possible medical care in this regard, and I am very optimistic."After the match, Bayern sporting director Max Eberl said Musiala would comment on the situation soon."Jamal will speak about this in the near future. We knew about it and we are aware of the situation," Eberl said."Jamal will speak out."On Saturday, Musiala collapsed on the pitch against Leipzig and required medical attention in hot conditions in the Bavarian capital, with temperatures well over 30C.Musiala missed the first six months of last season due to a broken ankle sustained at the Club World Cup, but he returned in the second half of the campaign and played for Germany at the 2026 World Cup.

The 23-year-old Germany international fell to the turf just minutes after coming on late in a pre-season friendly at Heidenheim. A similar incident took place on Saturday in Bayern's home win over RB Leipzig.

Bayern Munich midfielder Jamal Musiala said he is suffering from a neurological disorder after a second on-field collapse in three days on Tuesday. The 23-year-old Germany international fell to the turf just minutes after coming on late in a pre-season friendly at Heidenheim. A similar incident took place on Saturday in Bayern's home win over RB Leipzig. On Tuesday in Heidenheim, Musiala appeared dazed as he received medical treatment and was helped off the pitch. Also Read - Harry Kane set for extended Bayern Munich stay as contract negotiations begin Musiala later revealed on social media that he had a disorder which could lead to "temporary but treatable seizures". "I have been diagnosed with brief, temporary episodes of absence that are easily treatable and are caused by a neurological dysfunction," Musiala said. "These can lead to the moments that have occurred recently, such as against Leipzig and now in Heidenheim. "I know that they may seem scary at first glance - but for me, they are currently simply part of my everyday life." Musiala added that he was "incredibly grateful for all your messages and your support". "I am receiving the best possible medical care in this regard, and I am very optimistic." After the match, Bayern sporting director Max Eberl said Musiala would comment on the situation soon. "Jamal will speak about this in the near future. We knew about it and we are aware of the situation," Eberl said. "Jamal will speak out." On Saturday, Musiala collapsed on the pitch against Leipzig and required medical attention in hot conditions in the Bavarian capital, with temperatures well over 30C. Musiala missed the first six months of last season due to a broken ankle sustained at the Club World Cup, but he returned in the second half of the campaign and played for Germany at the 2026 World Cup.

The 23-year-old Germany international fell to the turf just minutes after coming on late in a pre-season friendly at Heidenheim. A similar incident took place on Saturday in Bayern's home win over RB Leipzig.

Bayern Munich's Musiala reveals suffering from neurological disorder

England captain and Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane looks poised to extend his stay with the Bundesliga giants beyond 2027 as the contract negotiations are set to begin soon. Kane, 33, confirmed to local media on Monday (Aug 17) that discussions were paused for his post-World Cup break but are now imminent in the coming days. &nbsp;"I'm not sure exactly when, but they'll start this week or next week," Kane said of the extension talks.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We're calm; they're calm with the situation. “Obviously now's the time to start talking, because with only a year left it's important. But both sides are relaxed, and I'm pretty sure there'll be talks this week or next week,” he continued.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-sign-rodri-manchester-city-transfer-1786935323662">World Cup winner Rodri set for Barcelona move in €76.5m Manchester City transfer</a> &nbsp;After spending 11 seasons with Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League, Kane arrived at Bayern Munich on a four-year deal in 2023. Since then, he has won two Bundesliga titles and a German Cup, while making the Champions League semifinals in two of the three seasons. The English striker has scored a remarkable 146 goals in 147 games in all competitions for his new club. &nbsp;Bayern Munich, however, has expressed keenness in extending Kane's deal, calling the former Spurs striker their ‘best transfer ever’ at the end of last season. &nbsp;Meanwhile, German media reported Kane's new deal would run until at least 2029.<h2>German Legend Backs Kane for Ballon d'Or</h2>On Tuesday (Aug 18), German World Cup winner and a Ballon d’Or Awardee, Lothar Matthaeus, said Kane should be the favourite for the prestigious French award for individual brilliance throughout the season. Matthaeus, who won the award in 1991, said Kane ‘deserves’ it more than any other player after a stellar season, in which he scored a whopping 61 goals in 51 games. &nbsp;"(Kane) delivered outstanding performances and, in my opinion, didn't have a single weak spell," Matthaeus wrote in a column for Sky Germany. &nbsp;Defending Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich will play at Borussia Dortmund in the season-opening Supercup on Saturday (Aug 22).&nbsp;

England captain Harry Kane has confirmed contract extension talks with Bayern Munich are set to begin, as Lothar Matthäus backs the striker for the Ballon d'Or.

England captain and Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane looks poised to extend his stay with the Bundesliga giants beyond 2027 as the contract negotiations are set to begin soon. Kane, 33, confirmed to local media on Monday (Aug 17) that discussions were paused for his post-World Cup break but are now imminent in the coming days. "I'm not sure exactly when, but they'll start this week or next week," Kane said of the extension talks. "We're calm; they're calm with the situation. “Obviously now's the time to start talking, because with only a year left it's important. But both sides are relaxed, and I'm pretty sure there'll be talks this week or next week,” he continued. Also read| World Cup winner Rodri set for Barcelona move in €76.5m Manchester City transfer After spending 11 seasons with Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League, Kane arrived at Bayern Munich on a four-year deal in 2023. Since then, he has won two Bundesliga titles and a German Cup, while making the Champions League semifinals in two of the three seasons. The English striker has scored a remarkable 146 goals in 147 games in all competitions for his new club. Bayern Munich, however, has expressed keenness in extending Kane's deal, calling the former Spurs striker their ‘best transfer ever’ at the end of last season. Meanwhile, German media reported Kane's new deal would run until at least 2029. German Legend Backs Kane for Ballon d'Or On Tuesday (Aug 18), German World Cup winner and a Ballon d’Or Awardee, Lothar Matthaeus, said Kane should be the favourite for the prestigious French award for individual brilliance throughout the season. Matthaeus, who won the award in 1991, said Kane ‘deserves’ it more than any other player after a stellar season, in which he scored a whopping 61 goals in 51 games. "(Kane) delivered outstanding performances and, in my opinion, didn't have a single weak spell," Matthaeus wrote in a column for Sky Germany. Defending Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich will play at Borussia Dortmund in the season-opening Supercup on Saturday (Aug 22).

England captain Harry Kane has confirmed contract extension talks with Bayern Munich are set to begin, as Lothar Matthäus backs the striker for the Ballon d'Or.

Harry Kane set for extended Bayern Munich stay as contract negotiations begin

Football veteran Cristiano Ronaldo has dropped the clearest hint on his retirement plan, revealing that he would likely step aside from the game at the end of the ongoing season. Ronaldo, 41, has his Al-Nassr contract expiring in mid-2027, and the Portuguese star doesn’t see himself prolonging his football career beyond that.&nbsp;&nbsp;Although Ronaldo revealed last November that he would continue playing for ‘one or two more years’, his latest remarks in a Vogue interview published on Sunday (Aug 16) read, "This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy." &nbsp;Ronaldo last featured in the concluded FIFA World Cup in North America, which was his sixth and final. At the 2026 edition, Spain knocked Portugal out, with Ronaldo denying all reports of his immediate retirement.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barcelona-sign-rodri-manchester-city-transfer-1786935323662">World Cup winner Rodri set for Barcelona move in €76.5m Manchester City transfer</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward has also already begun planning for life after football, including spending more time with his family.&nbsp; &nbsp;"I have my future all mapped out," Ronaldo added. "I have so many things to keep me busy that to tell you just one thing is hard. &nbsp;"Because football could leave a big hole, you have to fill your time in various ways, not just one. And also have more fun, travel more, watch and play padel, which I really like, and continue to enjoy what I've earned -- what we've earned. &nbsp;"Because after all it's been 25 years with a lot of sacrifice,” he continued.<h2>Football Career and Beyond</h2>Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, began his career at Sporting CP before moving to England to represent Manchester United. Following his record-breaking first spell at Old Trafford, where he lifted multiple Premier League titles and a Champions League crown, Ronaldo moved to Real Madrid in La Liga and then to Juventus in Serie A. His time with Madrid was most prolific, scoring a club-record 450 goals in 438 appearances. &nbsp;Ronaldo then returned to Manchester United for his second and brief spell before moving to the Saudi Pro League in 2023. &nbsp;Also, Ronaldo recently married his long-time partner, Georgina Rodríguez, in Cascais, Portugal.&nbsp;

Cristiano Ronaldo hints at retirement at the end of the 2026–27 season, revealing in a Vogue interview that his 25-year football career is entering its final chapter.

Football veteran Cristiano Ronaldo has dropped the clearest hint on his retirement plan, revealing that he would likely step aside from the game at the end of the ongoing season. Ronaldo, 41, has his Al-Nassr contract expiring in mid-2027, and the Portuguese star doesn’t see himself prolonging his football career beyond that. Although Ronaldo revealed last November that he would continue playing for ‘one or two more years’, his latest remarks in a Vogue interview published on Sunday (Aug 16) read, "This is probably my last year of football, and I want to leave a spectacular legacy." Ronaldo last featured in the concluded FIFA World Cup in North America, which was his sixth and final. At the 2026 edition, Spain knocked Portugal out, with Ronaldo denying all reports of his immediate retirement. Also read| World Cup winner Rodri set for Barcelona move in €76.5m Manchester City transfer Meanwhile, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward has also already begun planning for life after football, including spending more time with his family. "I have my future all mapped out," Ronaldo added. "I have so many things to keep me busy that to tell you just one thing is hard. "Because football could leave a big hole, you have to fill your time in various ways, not just one. And also have more fun, travel more, watch and play padel, which I really like, and continue to enjoy what I've earned -- what we've earned. "Because after all it's been 25 years with a lot of sacrifice,” he continued. Football Career and Beyond Ronaldo, a five-time Ballon d’Or winner, began his career at Sporting CP before moving to England to represent Manchester United. Following his record-breaking first spell at Old Trafford, where he lifted multiple Premier League titles and a Champions League crown, Ronaldo moved to Real Madrid in La Liga and then to Juventus in Serie A. His time with Madrid was most prolific, scoring a club-record 450 goals in 438 appearances. Ronaldo then returned to Manchester United for his second and brief spell before moving to the Saudi Pro League in 2023. Also, Ronaldo recently married his long-time partner, Georgina Rodríguez, in Cascais, Portugal.

Cristiano Ronaldo hints at retirement at the end of the 2026–27 season, revealing in a Vogue interview that his 25-year football career is entering its final chapter.

‘Probably My Last Year’: Cristiano Ronaldo teases football retirement after 2026/27 season

FC Barcelona agreed a deal to sign World Cup winner Rodri in a €76.5 million move from Manchester City. The 30-year-old midfielder, who was part of City’s golden generation, has won multiple league and domestic titles, a Champions League trophy and the coveted Ballon d’Or before signing up for the La Liga giants in the marquee summer move.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨🔵🔴 EXCLUSIVE: RODRI TO BARCELONA, HERE WE GO! 💥 Deal agreed for Spanish midfielder to join Barça from Man City, all done for the former Ballon d’Or. Green light from Man City to last Barcelona bid. More follows. 💣 <a href="https://t.co/ECs2v6HIHX">pic.twitter.com/ECs2v6HIHX</a>&mdash; Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/2089057119941111815?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"In the coming days there will be a statement and (the transfer) will become official," said the Barcelona source, as quoted by AFP. &nbsp;Shortly after Spain beat Argentina to lift their second FIFA World Cup in July 2026, Rodri was linked with Real Madrid, only for their rivals Barcelona to convince him to come to Camp Nou instead. Rodri, who moved to Manchester City from Atletico Madrid in 2019, will reportedly join Barcelona on a four-year deal.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/community-shield-2026-arsenal-beat-manchester-city-to-lift-first-trophy-of-season-1786899444737">Community Shield 2026: Arsenal beat Manchester City to lift first trophy of season</a> &nbsp;Earlier, Barcelona had two bids rejected for Rodri but eventually reached a deal with Manchester City on Sunday (Aug 16), with the midfielder becoming Barcelona’s fourth signing after Anthony Gordon, Karim Adeyemi and Jesse Bisiwu. The Spanish club is also expected to complete Joao Cancelo’s permanent transfer in the coming days following his loan spell at Barcelona last season. &nbsp;Barcelona’s Dutch midfielder Frenkie de Jong is set to miss several months through injury, encouraging the club to move for Rodri. The midfielder, however, has struggled with injuries over the past two seasons but shone for his national team as Spain denied Lionel Messi a chance to do the double in North America. &nbsp;Rodri-led Spain dominated each team at the World Cup, having conceded just one goal throughout the tournament. How he led his team, especially the midfield, which made all the difference in the final against Argentina, reflected his ability to work wonders on a football field.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, in England, under the vital figure and former coach Pep Guardiola, Rodri led them to 12 major trophies, including four Premier League titles and a Champions League win in 2023.

FC Barcelona has agreed to a €76.5M deal to sign World Cup winner and Ballon d’Or midfielder Rodri from Manchester City on a four-year contract.

FC Barcelona agreed a deal to sign World Cup winner Rodri in a €76.5 million move from Manchester City. The 30-year-old midfielder, who was part of City’s golden generation, has won multiple league and domestic titles, a Champions League trophy and the coveted Ballon d’Or before signing up for the La Liga giants in the marquee summer move.

FC Barcelona has agreed to a €76.5M deal to sign World Cup winner and Ballon d’Or midfielder Rodri from Manchester City on a four-year contract.

World Cup winner Rodri set for Barcelona move in €76.5m Manchester City transfer

Arsenal opened the 2026-27 English football season in style, beating Manchester City 3-0 to lift the FA Community Shield at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Sunday (Aug 16). Mikel Arteta’s team took the lead just 24 seconds into the match, as debutant Myles Lewis-Skelly made a strong run forward before setting up Riccardo Calafiori, who calmly finished to score the fastest goal in Community Shield history.&nbsp;Arsenal remained in control and doubled their lead in the 28th minute, with new signing Christos Tzolis sent a controlled cross from the left, which Kai Havertz met with a header to make it 2-0.&nbsp;City, playing their first competitive game under new manager Enzo Maresca, had periods of possession but found it difficult to break through Arsenal’s well-organised defence. David Raya also made several important saves to keep City scoreless.&nbsp;Arsenal added a third goal three minutes after the restart, with Tzolis setting up Martin Odegaard to calmly finish off a smooth attacking move.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bwf-world-championships-2026-sindhu-satwik-chirag-lead-india-s-home-challenge-1786894772151">BWF World Championships 2026: Sindhu, Satwik-Chirag lead India's home challenge</a>&nbsp;The win gave Arsenal the first trophy of the new season and continued Arteta’s strong record in the traditional season opener. For Maresca, his competitive debut as City manager ended in defeat before the Premier League campaign begins.&nbsp;The FA Community Shield, previously called the Charity Shield, is an annual fixture between the previous season’s Premier League champions and FA Cup winners. It acts as the traditional curtain-raiser for the new English football season.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fih-hockey-world-cup-2026-indian-women-begin-campaign-with-2-2-draw-against-china-1786889562915">Hockey World Cup 2026: Indian women begin campaign with 2-2 draw against China</a>&nbsp;Money raised from the match supports charities and community projects across the country. The money is shared among all 124 clubs that played in the FA Cup from the first round, with each club choosing charities or community projects to support.

Arsenal took the lead just 24 seconds into the match through Ricardo Calafiori, with Kai Havertz and captain Martin Odegaard also getting on the scoresheet.

Arsenal opened the 2026-27 English football season in style, beating Manchester City 3-0 to lift the FA Community Shield at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Sunday (Aug 16). Mikel Arteta’s team took the lead just 24 seconds into the match, as debutant Myles Lewis-Skelly made a strong run forward before setting up Riccardo Calafiori, who calmly finished to score the fastest goal in Community Shield history. Arsenal remained in control and doubled their lead in the 28th minute, with new signing Christos Tzolis sent a controlled cross from the left, which Kai Havertz met with a header to make it 2-0. City, playing their first competitive game under new manager Enzo Maresca, had periods of possession but found it difficult to break through Arsenal’s well-organised defence. David Raya also made several important saves to keep City scoreless. Arsenal added a third goal three minutes after the restart, with Tzolis setting up Martin Odegaard to calmly finish off a smooth attacking move. Also Read - BWF World Championships 2026: Sindhu, Satwik-Chirag lead India's home challenge The win gave Arsenal the first trophy of the new season and continued Arteta’s strong record in the traditional season opener. For Maresca, his competitive debut as City manager ended in defeat before the Premier League campaign begins. The FA Community Shield, previously called the Charity Shield, is an annual fixture between the previous season’s Premier League champions and FA Cup winners. It acts as the traditional curtain-raiser for the new English football season. Also Read - Hockey World Cup 2026: Indian women begin campaign with 2-2 draw against China Money raised from the match supports charities and community projects across the country. The money is shared among all 124 clubs that played in the FA Cup from the first round, with each club choosing charities or community projects to support.

Arsenal took the lead just 24 seconds into the match through Ricardo Calafiori, with Kai Havertz and captain Martin Odegaard also getting on the scoresheet.

Community Shield 2026: Arsenal beat Manchester City to lift first trophy of season

Paris Saint-Germain have signed Spain’s World Cup-winning forward Ferran Torres from Barcelona on a contract that will run until 2031, the two clubs confirmed on Saturday (Aug 15). The transfer fee was not revealed, but media reports claimed PSG paid €50 million ($57.83 million) for the 26-year-old.&nbsp;“I’m delighted to be beginning a new adventure ‌at such an ambitious club ‌as ⁠Paris St Germain,” Torres said in a statement.&nbsp;“I’d like to thank President Nasser Al-Khelaifi, (PSG’s football advisor) Luis Campos and coach Luis ‌Enrique for giving me the opportunity to join the team, which I hope to help win as many trophies as possible.”&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-1st-test-kl-rahul-cramps-spark-fitness-concern-batting-coach-provides-update-1786808790092">IND vs SL, 1st Test: KL Rahul cramps spark fitness concern, batting coach provides update</a>&nbsp;Torres arrives in Paris after scoring the extra-time winner against Argentina in the World Cup final. He had an impressive season with Barcelona, scoring 21 goals and providing three assists in 49 appearances across all competitions as the Catalan club successfully defended their LaLiga title.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fih-hockey-world-cup-2026-india-celebrate-independence-day-with-3-1-win-over-wales-1786802828688">FIH Hockey World Cup: India celebrate Independence Day with 3-1 win over Wales</a>&nbsp;The forward joined Barcelona in 2022 following a short spell with Premier League club Manchester City.&nbsp;Torres has also scored 25 goals in 65 appearances for Spain. At PSG, he will reunite with Luis Enrique, having previously played under the Spanish coach during his time as the national team manager.

Spain’s World Cup hero has joined the French capital after scoring the extra-time winner against Argentina in the World Cup final.

Paris Saint-Germain have signed Spain’s World Cup-winning forward Ferran Torres from Barcelona on a contract that will run until 2031, the two clubs confirmed on Saturday (Aug 15). The transfer fee was not revealed, but media reports claimed PSG paid €50 million ($57.83 million) for the 26-year-old. “I’m delighted to be beginning a new adventure ‌at such an ambitious club ‌as ⁠Paris St Germain,” Torres said in a statement. “I’d like to thank President Nasser Al-Khelaifi, (PSG’s football advisor) Luis Campos and coach Luis ‌Enrique for giving me the opportunity to join the team, which I hope to help win as many trophies as possible.” Also Read - IND vs SL, 1st Test: KL Rahul cramps spark fitness concern, batting coach provides update Torres arrives in Paris after scoring the extra-time winner against Argentina in the World Cup final. He had an impressive season with Barcelona, scoring 21 goals and providing three assists in 49 appearances across all competitions as the Catalan club successfully defended their LaLiga title. Also Read - FIH Hockey World Cup: India celebrate Independence Day with 3-1 win over Wales The forward joined Barcelona in 2022 following a short spell with Premier League club Manchester City. Torres has also scored 25 goals in 65 appearances for Spain. At PSG, he will reunite with Luis Enrique, having previously played under the Spanish coach during his time as the national team manager.

Spain’s World Cup hero has joined the French capital after scoring the extra-time winner against Argentina in the World Cup final.

PSG sign World Cup hero Ferran Torres from Barcelona

India have withdrawn from the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup as they look to focus on their high-profile international friendly against five-time world champions Brazil in Oct, All India Football Federation (AIFF) deputy secretary general M Satyanarayanan said on Thursday (Aug 13).&nbsp;India’s decision means they will miss the chance to play some of Southeast Asia’s top teams in a FIFA-sanctioned tournament.&nbsp;“We have pulled out of the FIFA ASEAN Cup since we can’t play both Brazil and FIFA ASEAN Cup,” Satyanarayanan told PTI.&nbsp;The FIFA ASEAN Cup was planned as a new international competition for teams from the ASEAN region, with India invited as one of the non-ASEAN teams.&nbsp;&nbsp;India had initially accepted FIFA’s invitation and were placed in Division 1 Group A alongside Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. The tournament was scheduled to take place during the Sep 21 to Oct 6 FIFA international window.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-ban-mitchell-starc-scripts-history-becomes-test-cricket-s-most-successful-left-arm-bowler-1786616383318">Mitchell Starc scripts history, becomes Test’s most successful left-arm bowler</a>&nbsp;However, India’s friendly against Brazil on Oct 3 at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium created a scheduling conflict.&nbsp;The AIFF had earlier considered sending a separate squad for the ASEAN Cup but has now decided to withdraw from the tournament and use the international window for friendly matches. The Brazil game was officially announced last month.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afg-vs-ire-sediqullah-atal-scripts-history-with-highest-odi-score-on-birthday-1786614540284">AFG vs IRE: Sediqullah Atal scripts history with highest ODI score on birthday</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, reports on Thursday claimed that India are also considering friendlies against teams that played at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.&nbsp;&nbsp;Cabo Verde and Iran are among the teams reportedly being discussed, although the AIFF has not officially confirmed these matches.&nbsp;The decision is a major change from India’s earlier plans, as the team had accepted FIFA’s invitation and signed the participation agreement.&nbsp;However, India failed to qualify for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup and have found it difficult to regularly secure matches against strong international opponents in recent years.

The AIFF has decided to prioritise the Brazil friendly over the FIFA ASEAN Cup, despite earlier plans to field separate squads for the two competitions.

India have withdrawn from the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup as they look to focus on their high-profile international friendly against five-time world champions Brazil in Oct, All India Football Federation (AIFF) deputy secretary general M Satyanarayanan said on Thursday (Aug 13). India’s decision means they will miss the chance to play some of Southeast Asia’s top teams in a FIFA-sanctioned tournament. “We have pulled out of the FIFA ASEAN Cup since we can’t play both Brazil and FIFA ASEAN Cup,” Satyanarayanan told PTI. The FIFA ASEAN Cup was planned as a new international competition for teams from the ASEAN region, with India invited as one of the non-ASEAN teams. India had initially accepted FIFA’s invitation and were placed in Division 1 Group A alongside Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore. The tournament was scheduled to take place during the Sep 21 to Oct 6 FIFA international window. Also Read - Mitchell Starc scripts history, becomes Test’s most successful left-arm bowler However, India’s friendly against Brazil on Oct 3 at Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium created a scheduling conflict. The AIFF had earlier considered sending a separate squad for the ASEAN Cup but has now decided to withdraw from the tournament and use the international window for friendly matches. The Brazil game was officially announced last month. Also Read - AFG vs IRE: Sediqullah Atal scripts history with highest ODI score on birthday Meanwhile, reports on Thursday claimed that India are also considering friendlies against teams that played at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Cabo Verde and Iran are among the teams reportedly being discussed, although the AIFF has not officially confirmed these matches. The decision is a major change from India’s earlier plans, as the team had accepted FIFA’s invitation and signed the participation agreement. However, India failed to qualify for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup and have found it difficult to regularly secure matches against strong international opponents in recent years.

The AIFF has decided to prioritise the Brazil friendly over the FIFA ASEAN Cup, despite earlier plans to field separate squads for the two competitions.

India prioritise Brazil friendly, withdraw from FIFA ASEAN Cup

Argentina football star Lionel Messi, after the recent death of his father, has hinted at the end of his career as well. Messi's father, Jorge, was a constant presence throughout his careeer including from the early days of Barcelona. The FIFA World Cup 2026 was the first event where Messi was without his father. The footballer, after scoring the opening goal of his hat-trick in the first match against Algeria, was ery emotional which he later described as "matter other than football."<h2>Is Messi retiring from football?</h2>The Argentina star has 207 caps for the national side since making his debut in 2005. He also led the team to World Cup glory in 2022 like Diego Maradona but failed like him in the final whil going for back-to-back titles. Messi, 39, wrote a long post on Instagram on Wednesday (Aug 12), and said that "he's not sure about continuing anymore."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-childhood-dream-nfl-star-travis-kelce-opens-up-on-wedding-with-popstar-taylor-swift-1786589344969">'My childhood dream': NFL star Travis Kelce opens up on wedding with popstar Taylor Swift</a>"I don’t know what I’m going to do without you. I don’t know how ​to move forward. I only played football and now I have quite a few doubts about whether I’m going to keep doing it for much longer.“You were by my side from the beginning; there was so little left until the end. Why couldn’t you hold on just a little longer so we could finish it together? You always asked me to play in the last World Cup and a few days before it started was when you got worse," he wrote."It was the first time you weren’t going to be at a tournament … Every time a match ended, I would ‌wait and hope for your message. That’s when I realised how real the situation was. My legs couldn’t go on any more. This time I tried to push myself beyond my ​physical limits, but I couldn’t. ​I never felt well … We weren’t champions, ​but you don’t know how much we enjoyed every match. Once again, you were ​right: I had to ‌be there and play ​it," added the Argentina star.<h2>What happened to Messi's father Jorge?</h2>Jorge passed away last week in Rosario, Argentina after a long illness. Messi was in the USA with Inter Miami of Major League Soccer (MLS) after the FIFA World Cup and rushed to his home country after the tragic incident.&nbsp;

Grieving the loss of his father Jorge, Lionel Messi has hinted at retirement. Following a tough 2026 World Cup campaign, the 39-year-old admitted on Instagram he doubts he can keep playing.

Argentina football star Lionel Messi, after the recent death of his father, has hinted at the end of his career as well. Messi's father, Jorge, was a constant presence throughout his careeer including from the early days of Barcelona. The FIFA World Cup 2026 was the first event where Messi was without his father. The footballer, after scoring the opening goal of his hat-trick in the first match against Algeria, was ery emotional which he later described as "matter other than football." Is Messi retiring from football? The Argentina star has 207 caps for the national side since making his debut in 2005. He also led the team to World Cup glory in 2022 like Diego Maradona but failed like him in the final whil going for back-to-back titles. Messi, 39, wrote a long post on Instagram on Wednesday (Aug 12), and said that "he's not sure about continuing anymore." Also Read - 'My childhood dream': NFL star Travis Kelce opens up on wedding with popstar Taylor Swift "I don’t know what I’m going to do without you. I don’t know how to move forward. I only played football and now I have quite a few doubts about whether I’m going to keep doing it for much longer. “You were by my side from the beginning; there was so little left until the end. Why couldn’t you hold on just a little longer so we could finish it together? You always asked me to play in the last World Cup and a few days before it started was when you got worse," he wrote. "It was the first time you weren’t going to be at a tournament … Every time a match ended, I would ‌wait and hope for your message. That’s when I realised how real the situation was. My legs couldn’t go on any more. This time I tried to push myself beyond my physical limits, but I couldn’t. I never felt well … We weren’t champions, but you don’t know how much we enjoyed every match. Once again, you were right: I had to ‌be there and play it," added the Argentina star. What happened to Messi's father Jorge? Jorge passed away last week in Rosario, Argentina after a long illness. Messi was in the USA with Inter Miami of Major League Soccer (MLS) after the FIFA World Cup and rushed to his home country after the tragic incident.

Grieving the loss of his father Jorge, Lionel Messi has hinted at retirement. Following a tough 2026 World Cup campaign, the 39-year-old admitted on Instagram he doubts he can keep playing.

Lionel Messi to retire? Argentina footballer doesn't 'know how to move forward' after death of his father

Cristiano Ronaldo was quick to comfort Lionel Messi following the Argentine superstar's heartbreaking tribute to his late father, Jorge Messi, who passed away on August 7. Sending his love and support during a painful time, Ronaldo left a touching note on Messi's social media post.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Huge hug to you and your loved ones in this difficult moment, Leo. Stay strong.❤️‍🩹” Ronaldo wrote in the comments section of Messi's post.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🫂 Cristiano Ronaldo sends message to Lionel Messi: “Huge hug to you and your loved ones in this difficult moment, Leo”. “Stay strong”. ❤️‍🩹 <a href="https://t.co/JZlAKftFHl">pic.twitter.com/JZlAKftFHl</a>&mdash; Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/2087535742658503044?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Messi lost his father weeks after Argentina lost to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. Messi’s Argentina didn’t lose a game in the lead-up to the successive finals at the showpiece event, only to suffer a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat at the hands of now two-time World Cup winners, Spain.&nbsp; &nbsp;Messi, who, for the longest time in the tournament, led the goal-scoring chart, stood second to French captain Kylian Mbappe (10) for most goals scored in this edition, netting eight times. His overall World Cup tally, however, reads 21 goals, one shy of Mbappe, whose French side finished fourth in North America.&nbsp;In PICS| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/10-years-5-kids-and-one-gucci-store-meeting-inside-georgina-rodr-guez-and-cristiano-ronaldo-s-journey-to-marriage-1786511436003">10 years, 5 kids, and one Gucci store meeting: Inside Georgina Rodríguez and Cristiano Ronaldo's journey to marriage</a> &nbsp;Even though the Argentine superstar returned to action for Inter Miami days later, his father's death may result in him cutting short his playing career, already in the twilight stage, as he also mentioned in his heartfelt post.<h2>Messi’s Emotional Message for his Father</h2>An emotional Lionel Messi penned an unfeigned message for his father, which reads, “Dad, you kept asking me to play in one last World Cup… just days before it began was when your condition got worse”. &nbsp;“It was the first time you weren’t going to be there with me at the tournament…but Mom kept telling me you were going to get better and that you’d be well enough to travel. &nbsp;“I kept telling you we were going to reach the World Cup final so you could make the trip; this was my mission once again. &nbsp;“After every match, I waited for and missed your message. That’s when I realised how serious the situation really was. &nbsp;“I couldn’t stop thinking about going as far as possible, give you more time and the chance to watch one of the games. &nbsp;“We reached the final, but you couldn’t be there. I wanted to win it so I could bring the trophy to you and show you another one. I couldn’t. &nbsp;“My legs just couldn’t give me any more. &nbsp;“This time I tried to push beyond what my body could handle, but I couldn’t. &nbsp;“I never managed to feel physically right. &nbsp;“We didn’t become champions, Dad, but you have no idea how much we enjoyed every match. Once again, you were right: I had to be there and play in it… as you told me, always,” he concluded.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">❤️‍🩹🇦🇷 Leo Messi: “Dad, you kept asking me to play in one last World Cup… just days before it began was when your condition got worse”. “It was the first time you weren’t going to be there with me at tournament… but Mom kept telling me you were going to get better and that you’d… <a href="https://t.co/MumdaM8BHN">pic.twitter.com/MumdaM8BHN</a>&mdash; Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/2087530887088837030?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, Messi and Ronaldo are the two greatest footballers of all time, gracing this game and sharing top stages for over a decade now. Having faced each other multiple times on the club front, Messi and Ronaldo have never faced each other in a World Cup match.

Cristiano Ronaldo left a touching comment on Lionel Messi’s emotional tribute to his late father, Jorge Messi. Read Ronaldo’s full message of support here.

Cristiano Ronaldo was quick to comfort Lionel Messi following the Argentine superstar's heartbreaking tribute to his late father, Jorge Messi, who passed away on August 7. Sending his love and support during a painful time, Ronaldo left a touching note on Messi's social media post. “Huge hug to you and your loved ones in this difficult moment, Leo. Stay strong.❤️‍🩹” Ronaldo wrote in the comments section of Messi's post.

Cristiano Ronaldo left a touching comment on Lionel Messi’s emotional tribute to his late father, Jorge Messi. Read Ronaldo’s full message of support here.

‘A Huge Hug to You, Leo’: Cristiano Ronaldo sends heartfelt message to Lionel Messi following father’s death

Cristiano Ronaldo and his long-time partner Georgina Rodriguez married on Tuesday in a ceremony in the Portuguese resort of Cascais, said the football superstar's representatives. The wedding capped a decade-long relationship and came after days of intense media speculation in Portugal over the location and timing of the ceremony.Ronaldo, 41, shared a photo of the couple's hands with their wedding bands and the caption: "C (heart) G" on his Instagram account.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/omar-artan-somali-referee-uefa-super-cup-psg-aston-villa-1786457067243">Somali referee Omar Artan 'proud' to officiate Super Cup after World Cup snub</a>The couple's five children attended the "private and intimate" ceremony, the Brunswick Group, which handles the player's public relations, told AFP.The couple tied the knot exactly one year after Rodriguez, a 32-year-old influencer, announced their engagement on Instagram.

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/Db6URBZAWgg/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Db6URBZAWgg/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/Db6URBZAWgg/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Cristiano Ronaldo (@cristiano)</a></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

Ronaldo, who played for Portugal at the World Cup this summer where they exited in the last 16, currently plays for Saudi club Al Nassr.The former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus forward won the Ballon d'Or for the world's best player five times.Rodriguez boosted her own profile by starring in a Netflix show called "I am Georgina", which chronicles the family's life between football, fashion and travel.Portuguese media had speculated that the wedding could take place in Sintra, outside Lisbon, or in Funchal on the Atlantic island of Madeira, Ronaldo's birthplace.Reports that the ceremony would be held in Funchal last weekend drew hundreds of people to the city's cathedral hoping to see the couple.The cathedral had previously told AFP it had no wedding ceremony scheduled for Ronaldo, while adding that hosting such an event would have been "an honour".The couple ultimately opted for Cascais, an elite seaside resort around 30 kilometres (19 miles) west of Lisbon, where they own a villa.They met in 2016 when Rodriguez was working in a Gucci store in Madrid, with Rodriguez describing it as "love at first sight".In an interview with Vogue Arabia in 2025, she said she almost immediately felt "a sense of peace and an inexplicable energy" when she was with Ronaldo, "as if we had known each other forever".Together, they have amassed more than 750 million followers across social media platforms and have built one of the world's most recognisable celebrity partnerships, extending far beyond football.The couple have a portfolio of investments that include fashion brands and a chain of hotels.

The wedding capped a decade-long relationship and came after days of intense media speculation in Portugal over the location and timing of the ceremony. Ronaldo, 41, shared a photo of the couple's hands with their wedding bands and the caption: "C (heart) G" on his Instagram account.

Cristiano Ronaldo and his long-time partner Georgina Rodriguez married on Tuesday in a ceremony in the Portuguese resort of Cascais, said the football superstar's representatives. The wedding capped a decade-long relationship and came after days of intense media speculation in Portugal over the location and timing of the ceremony. Ronaldo, 41, shared a photo of the couple's hands with their wedding bands and the caption: "C (heart) G" on his Instagram account. Also Read - Somali referee Omar Artan 'proud' to officiate Super Cup after World Cup snub The couple's five children attended the "private and intimate" ceremony, the Brunswick Group, which handles the player's public relations, told AFP. The couple tied the knot exactly one year after Rodriguez, a 32-year-old influencer, announced their engagement on Instagram.

The wedding capped a decade-long relationship and came after days of intense media speculation in Portugal over the location and timing of the ceremony. Ronaldo, 41, shared a photo of the couple's hands with their wedding bands and the caption: "C (heart) G" on his Instagram account.

Portugese star Cristiano Ronaldo ties knot with long-time partner Georgina Rodriguez

Somali referee Omar Artan, who was denied a chance to officiate at the concluded World Cup after the US refused him entry to their country, is proud to take charge of the UEFA Super Cup between UCL winners Paris Saint-Germain and Europa League champions Aston Villa on Wednesday. Even before the 48-team tournament got underway in North America, the 34-year-old referee found himself in the media spotlight after being turned away upon arriving at Miami International Airport. What shocked everyone was that he was part of the referee panel that FIFA finalised for the World Cup, also co-hosted by Canada and Mexico. &nbsp;"It was a very tough period," Artan said in an interview published on the UEFA website. "A lot of people have sympathy for me, because when someone has been working a lot of years and is supposed to do something, and then can't do it, it's very challenging."&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-president-donald-trump-backs-fifa-chief-gianni-infantino-amid-ongoing-crisis-1786417934287">US President Donald Trump backs FIFA chief Gianni Infantino amid ongoing crisis</a> &nbsp;Per earlier reports, a US State Department official informed AFP that Artan was ‘associated with suspected members of terrorist organisations,’ therefore ‘making him ineligible for admission to the US.’ The referee, however, rejected all allegations amid widespread outrage in Somalia, where he was later welcomed as a hero on his return. &nbsp;"It is unfortunate what happened to the referee from Somalia," FIFA President Gianni Infantino said at the time, adding: "We don't control everything." In response, UEFA announced that Artan would referee the UEFA Super Cup. &nbsp;"I was lucky, but I have worked very hard to be here, and I'm really proud," Artan told UEFA. "As you can imagine, I grew up in a difficult situation, but it didn't prevent me from pursuing my dreams." &nbsp;Meanwhile, Artan is not just officiating in Europe but he is making history as the first non-European referee to take charge of the UEFA Super Cup. &nbsp;"Having adventures, making memories and learning new things is always great," he added. "When we got this call, it was, for me and my family, really a very, very happy moment."&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Somali referee Omar Artan speaks on his pride in officiating the UEFA Super Cup between PSG and Aston Villa after his 2026 World Cup visa setback.

Somali referee Omar Artan, who was denied a chance to officiate at the concluded World Cup after the US refused him entry to their country, is proud to take charge of the UEFA Super Cup between UCL winners Paris Saint-Germain and Europa League champions Aston Villa on Wednesday. Even before the 48-team tournament got underway in North America, the 34-year-old referee found himself in the media spotlight after being turned away upon arriving at Miami International Airport. What shocked everyone was that he was part of the referee panel that FIFA finalised for the World Cup, also co-hosted by Canada and Mexico. "It was a very tough period," Artan said in an interview published on the UEFA website. "A lot of people have sympathy for me, because when someone has been working a lot of years and is supposed to do something, and then can't do it, it's very challenging." Also read| US President Donald Trump backs FIFA chief Gianni Infantino amid ongoing crisis Per earlier reports, a US State Department official informed AFP that Artan was ‘associated with suspected members of terrorist organisations,’ therefore ‘making him ineligible for admission to the US.’ The referee, however, rejected all allegations amid widespread outrage in Somalia, where he was later welcomed as a hero on his return. "It is unfortunate what happened to the referee from Somalia," FIFA President Gianni Infantino said at the time, adding: "We don't control everything." In response, UEFA announced that Artan would referee the UEFA Super Cup. "I was lucky, but I have worked very hard to be here, and I'm really proud," Artan told UEFA. "As you can imagine, I grew up in a difficult situation, but it didn't prevent me from pursuing my dreams." Meanwhile, Artan is not just officiating in Europe but he is making history as the first non-European referee to take charge of the UEFA Super Cup. "Having adventures, making memories and learning new things is always great," he added. "When we got this call, it was, for me and my family, really a very, very happy moment." (With inputs from AFP)

Somali referee Omar Artan speaks on his pride in officiating the UEFA Super Cup between PSG and Aston Villa after his 2026 World Cup visa setback.

Somali referee Omar Artan 'proud' to officiate Super Cup after World Cup snub

US President Donald Trump on Monday backed FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who is in hot water over allegations of a workplace affair and criticism of a failed private investment scheme."FIFA would be making a terrible mistake if, for any reason, they even considered replacing President Gianni Infantino," Trump said in a Truth Social post, calling the Italian-Swiss lawyer "fantastic" and saying he "presided over the most successful World Cup, by four times, ever presented.""If he is gone, it will never be as successful or profitable again!"Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jose-mourinho-manchester-united-2013-sir-alex-ferguson-chelsea-1786359930223">'Special One' Jose Mourinho admits he almost joined Manchester United in 2013</a>Trump's backing of Infantino contrasts with the response of US Soccer, which issued a statement critiquing the FIFA leader alongside Canada Soccer and football organizations in Central America and the Caribbean.Infantino, who faces reelection next March, has denied allegations of wrongdoing, and FIFA for their part has backed its beseiged president, calling the backlash "a concerted and ongoing effort by some to undermine" the organization.Other football organizations, including the Confederation of African Football and South American governing body CONMEBOL, share Trump's position in supporting Infantino.

Trump's backing of Infantino contrasts with the response of US Soccer, which issued a statement critiquing the FIFA leader alongside Canada Soccer and football organizations in Central America and the Caribbean.

US President Donald Trump on Monday backed FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who is in hot water over allegations of a workplace affair and criticism of a failed private investment scheme. "FIFA would be making a terrible mistake if, for any reason, they even considered replacing President Gianni Infantino," Trump said in a Truth Social post, calling the Italian-Swiss lawyer "fantastic" and saying he "presided over the most successful World Cup, by four times, ever presented." "If he is gone, it will never be as successful or profitable again!" Also Read - 'Special One' Jose Mourinho admits he almost joined Manchester United in 2013 Trump's backing of Infantino contrasts with the response of US Soccer, which issued a statement critiquing the FIFA leader alongside Canada Soccer and football organizations in Central America and the Caribbean. Infantino, who faces reelection next March, has denied allegations of wrongdoing, and FIFA for their part has backed its beseiged president, calling the backlash "a concerted and ongoing effort by some to undermine" the organization. Other football organizations, including the Confederation of African Football and South American governing body CONMEBOL, share Trump's position in supporting Infantino.

Trump's backing of Infantino contrasts with the response of US Soccer, which issued a statement critiquing the FIFA leader alongside Canada Soccer and football organizations in Central America and the Caribbean.

US President Donald Trump backs FIFA chief Gianni Infantino amid ongoing crisis

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is part of a consortium led by Amit Bhatia, the son-in-law of Indian steel tycoon Lakshmi Mittal, alongside Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin, which is nearing a deal to buy a one-third stake in the Premier League club Liverpool FC. The club owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), confirmed the approach from the Bhatia-led group last month. &nbsp;"An investment consortium led, managed, and represented by Amit Bhatia has expressed interest in making a strategic minority investment in Liverpool Football Club," an FSG spokesman said in a statement to AFP. &nbsp;Bhatia was until recently a shareholder in Championship club Queens Park Rangers. Meanwhile, a Sky Sports report claims that the consortium was "closing in on a deal to buy a roughly one-third stake in Liverpool", with FSG preparing to announce it "as soon as this week".&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jose-mourinho-manchester-united-2013-sir-alex-ferguson-chelsea-1786359930223">'Special One' Jose Mourinho admits he almost joined Manchester United in 2013</a> &nbsp;While Bezos, 62, is amongst the world's richest men, with a fortune of more than $280 billion, as estimated by Forbes magazine, Saverin's net worth is put at $33 billion.&nbsp; &nbsp;Besides, the business mogul Bezos has reportedly explored previous bids for the NFL's Seattle Seahawks and Washington Commanders, but decided against pursuing either deal. &nbsp;The report also states that the investment in Liverpool – part of an influx of American money into the Premier League - would reportedly value the club at $6 billion. &nbsp;Also, the owners of the Boston Red Sox baseball team, FSG, bought Liverpool in 2010 for £300 million ($405 million), later selling a minority stake in the club (in 2023) to US private equity group Dynasty Equity. &nbsp;The 20-time English champions, Liverpool, last won the Premier League title in 2024/25 under Arne Slot, but the Dutchman was sacked in May after a turbulent season.&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, alongside Facebook's Eduardo Saverin and an Amit Bhatia-led consortium, is close to acquiring a one-third stake in Liverpool FC at a $6 billion valuation. 

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos is part of a consortium led by Amit Bhatia, the son-in-law of Indian steel tycoon Lakshmi Mittal, alongside Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin, which is nearing a deal to buy a one-third stake in the Premier League club Liverpool FC. The club owners, Fenway Sports Group (FSG), confirmed the approach from the Bhatia-led group last month. "An investment consortium led, managed, and represented by Amit Bhatia has expressed interest in making a strategic minority investment in Liverpool Football Club," an FSG spokesman said in a statement to AFP. Bhatia was until recently a shareholder in Championship club Queens Park Rangers. Meanwhile, a Sky Sports report claims that the consortium was "closing in on a deal to buy a roughly one-third stake in Liverpool", with FSG preparing to announce it "as soon as this week". Also read| 'Special One' Jose Mourinho admits he almost joined Manchester United in 2013 While Bezos, 62, is amongst the world's richest men, with a fortune of more than $280 billion, as estimated by Forbes magazine, Saverin's net worth is put at $33 billion. Besides, the business mogul Bezos has reportedly explored previous bids for the NFL's Seattle Seahawks and Washington Commanders, but decided against pursuing either deal. The report also states that the investment in Liverpool – part of an influx of American money into the Premier League - would reportedly value the club at $6 billion. Also, the owners of the Boston Red Sox baseball team, FSG, bought Liverpool in 2010 for £300 million ($405 million), later selling a minority stake in the club (in 2023) to US private equity group Dynasty Equity. The 20-time English champions, Liverpool, last won the Premier League title in 2024/25 under Arne Slot, but the Dutchman was sacked in May after a turbulent season. (With inputs from AFP)

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, alongside Facebook's Eduardo Saverin and an Amit Bhatia-led consortium, is close to acquiring a one-third stake in Liverpool FC at a $6 billion valuation.&nbsp;

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos nears deal for one-third stake in Liverpool FC

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho once came agonisingly close to replacing Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United in 2013, he revealed. The ‘Special One’ instead said yes to Chelsea, the club he helped lift two successive titles in his first run years ago. The then-Everton manager David Moyes replaced Ferguson, who managed the club for 26 years and won 13 Premier League trophies, while Mourinho turned down a Man Utd offer to return to Stamford Bridge, as he had given them his word. &nbsp;Speaking on a Netflix documentary releasing on August 11, Mourinho revealed, "When I left Real Madrid, I signed to go to Manchester United after Sir Alex.”&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/diego-maradona-hand-of-god-ball-auction-10-million-us-1786263632650">Diego Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ ball expected to fetch $10 million at US auction</a> &nbsp;Sir Alex also confirmed the same, saying, "I sat him down and explained the situation. As far as I was concerned, he was accepting. And then, within hours, it changed." &nbsp;"One night, he phoned me, and he was crying, and he says: 'Alex, I can't take it. I've given my word to Chelsea, and I'm not going to break my word.' &nbsp;"The reason he gave to me, I could understand, but I was disappointed,” Sir Alex added.<h2>‘Love for Football is Different from Love for Club’</h2>Mourinho explained further what happened behind the scenes, adding that love for football is different from love for a club. While United’s offer was expectedly appealing for its rich history, Mourinho said he never regretted turning it down as that decision came from his heart. &nbsp;"But one thing is love for football, another thing is love for a certain club," Mourinho explained. "I think this is more powerful than love for football and fundamentally, after Real Madrid, I needed to feel that I'm loved. &nbsp;"For me to lose the chance to be the coach to succeed Sir Alex Ferguson was dramatic, but I don't regret [it] because it was a decision that I made with my heart,” he continued. &nbsp;What happened next was no less than cinema. While Mourinho helped Chelsea win its third PL the next season as well as the League Cup, United sacked Moyes 10 months into the job.&nbsp; &nbsp;Mourinho, however, later joined United in 2016, succeeding Louis Van Gaal. At Old Trafford, he won the League Cup and Europa League titles before suffering a similar fate in 2018 following a slump in results.

Jose Mourinho reveals in a new Netflix documentary that he was set to replace Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United in 2013 before choosing Chelsea instead.

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho once came agonisingly close to replacing Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United in 2013, he revealed. The ‘Special One’ instead said yes to Chelsea, the club he helped lift two successive titles in his first run years ago. The then-Everton manager David Moyes replaced Ferguson, who managed the club for 26 years and won 13 Premier League trophies, while Mourinho turned down a Man Utd offer to return to Stamford Bridge, as he had given them his word. Speaking on a Netflix documentary releasing on August 11, Mourinho revealed, "When I left Real Madrid, I signed to go to Manchester United after Sir Alex.” Also read| Diego Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ ball expected to fetch $10 million at US auction Sir Alex also confirmed the same, saying, "I sat him down and explained the situation. As far as I was concerned, he was accepting. And then, within hours, it changed." "One night, he phoned me, and he was crying, and he says: 'Alex, I can't take it. I've given my word to Chelsea, and I'm not going to break my word.' "The reason he gave to me, I could understand, but I was disappointed,” Sir Alex added. ‘Love for Football is Different from Love for Club’ Mourinho explained further what happened behind the scenes, adding that love for football is different from love for a club. While United’s offer was expectedly appealing for its rich history, Mourinho said he never regretted turning it down as that decision came from his heart. "But one thing is love for football, another thing is love for a certain club," Mourinho explained. "I think this is more powerful than love for football and fundamentally, after Real Madrid, I needed to feel that I'm loved. "For me to lose the chance to be the coach to succeed Sir Alex Ferguson was dramatic, but I don't regret [it] because it was a decision that I made with my heart,” he continued. What happened next was no less than cinema. While Mourinho helped Chelsea win its third PL the next season as well as the League Cup, United sacked Moyes 10 months into the job. Mourinho, however, later joined United in 2016, succeeding Louis Van Gaal. At Old Trafford, he won the League Cup and Europa League titles before suffering a similar fate in 2018 following a slump in results.

Jose Mourinho reveals in a new Netflix documentary that he was set to replace Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United in 2013 before choosing Chelsea instead.

'Special One' Jose Mourinho admits he almost joined Manchester United in 2013

The football used by Diego Maradona to score the most controversial goal in the game’s history, called the ‘Hand of God’ during Argentina’s 1986 World Cup fixture against England, is up for auction in the US later this month and is expected to fetch a whopping $10 million. Maradona, who eventually lifted the FIFA World Cup trophy in that edition, punched the ball past the English goalkeeper in that quarterfinal match, helping Argentina win 2-1. After the match, Maradona said his goal was scored ‘a little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God.’ &nbsp;The Texas-based Heritage Auctions expects the ball to be sold for eight figures when it goes under the hammer from August 21 to 23, with a $2.5 million opening bid.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-s-father-jorge-passes-away-at-68-1786199062492">Lionel Messi’s father Jorge passes away at 68</a> &nbsp;"I think it's easily the most historic ball in the realm of soccer," Dan Imler, vice president of sports at Heritage Auctions, said in a statement to AFP. &nbsp;He further revealed that it is the same ball that Maradona used to score the so-called "Goal of the Century", in which he dribbled past several English defenders before finishing past the goalkeeper. &nbsp;"Both of the goals scored are just so iconic, so memorable," Imler said. &nbsp;Also, the jersey Maradona wore in that match against England at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico currently holds the record for the most expensive soccer shirt ($9.3 million).<h2>Love-Hate Relationship 40 Years On</h2>40 years since that game, Argentina, the 2022 FIFA World Cup holders, faced off against England in the second semifinal of the concluded edition at the same venue last month. Argentine captain Lionel Messi, dubbed by many the greatest footballer of all time, contributed twice during that tense encounter, with the South American side coming from behind to beat England 2-1. &nbsp;Ironically, the scoreline is similar to that of their famous face-off in the 1986 edition. However, unlike that time, when Argentina won the World Cup, Messi’s team failed to defend its crown as Spain beat them 1-0 to lift their second World Cup title.&nbsp;

Diego Maradona’s infamous 1986 'Hand of God' World Cup match ball goes under the hammer at a US auction, with bidding expected to reach $10 million.

The football used by Diego Maradona to score the most controversial goal in the game’s history, called the ‘Hand of God’ during Argentina’s 1986 World Cup fixture against England, is up for auction in the US later this month and is expected to fetch a whopping $10 million. Maradona, who eventually lifted the FIFA World Cup trophy in that edition, punched the ball past the English goalkeeper in that quarterfinal match, helping Argentina win 2-1. After the match, Maradona said his goal was scored ‘a little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God.’ The Texas-based Heritage Auctions expects the ball to be sold for eight figures when it goes under the hammer from August 21 to 23, with a $2.5 million opening bid. Also read| Lionel Messi’s father Jorge passes away at 68 "I think it's easily the most historic ball in the realm of soccer," Dan Imler, vice president of sports at Heritage Auctions, said in a statement to AFP. He further revealed that it is the same ball that Maradona used to score the so-called "Goal of the Century", in which he dribbled past several English defenders before finishing past the goalkeeper. "Both of the goals scored are just so iconic, so memorable," Imler said. Also, the jersey Maradona wore in that match against England at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico currently holds the record for the most expensive soccer shirt ($9.3 million). Love-Hate Relationship 40 Years On 40 years since that game, Argentina, the 2022 FIFA World Cup holders, faced off against England in the second semifinal of the concluded edition at the same venue last month. Argentine captain Lionel Messi, dubbed by many the greatest footballer of all time, contributed twice during that tense encounter, with the South American side coming from behind to beat England 2-1. Ironically, the scoreline is similar to that of their famous face-off in the 1986 edition. However, unlike that time, when Argentina won the World Cup, Messi’s team failed to defend its crown as Spain beat them 1-0 to lift their second World Cup title.

Diego Maradona’s infamous 1986 'Hand of God' World Cup match ball goes under the hammer at a US auction, with bidding expected to reach $10 million.

Diego Maradona’s ‘Hand of God’ ball expected to fetch $10 million at US auction

Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, has died aged 68 after a long battle with a chronic illness.According to reports from Argentina, Jorge passed away at around 10 pm local time on Friday at a clinic in Rosario, where he had been receiving treatment. Messi’s boyhood club, Newell’s Old Boys, confirmed his death through an official statement on Saturday.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Club Atltico Newell’s Old Boys bids farewell with deep sorrow and grief to Jorge Messi, who passed away at the age of 68 in the city of Rosario. Recognized leproso fan, businessman, and father of the Argentine national team captain, Lionel Andrs Messi."&nbsp;“Jorge was the pillar and the person who supported with vision, rigor, and affection the career of the greatest player of all time alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini. His constant companionship and behind-the-scenes leadership were essential in backing every step of Lionel, from his beginnings at Malvinas to the pinnacle of world football glory. Thank you for teaching him to love these colors. The Board of Directors, members, athletes, and the entire leprosa family embrace with affection Celia, Lionel, Rodrigo, Matas, and Mara Sol, and all their loved ones and close ones in this difficult moment. Farewell forever, leproso,” read the statement from the club.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jemimah-rodrigues-suffers-injury-blow-ruled-out-of-the-hundred-1786188196539">Jemimah Rodrigues suffers injury blow, ruled out of The Hundred</a>&nbsp;Questions over Jorge Messi’s health emerged during the 2026 World Cup, when reports revealed that he was battling an illness. Messi was seen crying during Argentina’s win over Algeria, in which he scored a hat-trick and his emotional reaction after scoring one of the goals led to speculation about his father’s health.&nbsp;The Argentina captain later confirmed that his emotions were linked to something happening away from football. His family subsequently denied reports claiming that Jorge had died and said he was making steady progress in his recovery.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenal-sign-bruno-guimaraes-from-newcastle-united-1786193276320">Arsenal sign Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle Unite</a>d&nbsp;Jorge Messi played an important role in Lionel Messi’s career and was much more than just his father, as he was involved in several key decisions from the early stages of Messi’s journey and was a trusted figure during the talks that eventually resulted in Lionel moving from Argentina to Barcelona.&nbsp;Jorge also played a role in deals that took Messi to Paris Saint-Germain and later Inter Miami.&nbsp;Messi’s family was not seen in the stands during the 2026 World Cup, where Argentina finished as runners-up to Spain.

Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, has passed away at the age of 68, with the news confirmed by the Argentine star’s former club Newell’s Old Boys on Saturday.

Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, has died aged 68 after a long battle with a chronic illness. According to reports from Argentina, Jorge passed away at around 10 pm local time on Friday at a clinic in Rosario, where he had been receiving treatment. Messi’s boyhood club, Newell’s Old Boys, confirmed his death through an official statement on Saturday. “Club Atltico Newell’s Old Boys bids farewell with deep sorrow and grief to Jorge Messi, who passed away at the age of 68 in the city of Rosario. Recognized leproso fan, businessman, and father of the Argentine national team captain, Lionel Andrs Messi." “Jorge was the pillar and the person who supported with vision, rigor, and affection the career of the greatest player of all time alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini. His constant companionship and behind-the-scenes leadership were essential in backing every step of Lionel, from his beginnings at Malvinas to the pinnacle of world football glory. Thank you for teaching him to love these colors. The Board of Directors, members, athletes, and the entire leprosa family embrace with affection Celia, Lionel, Rodrigo, Matas, and Mara Sol, and all their loved ones and close ones in this difficult moment. Farewell forever, leproso,” read the statement from the club. Also Read - Jemimah Rodrigues suffers injury blow, ruled out of The Hundred Questions over Jorge Messi’s health emerged during the 2026 World Cup, when reports revealed that he was battling an illness. Messi was seen crying during Argentina’s win over Algeria, in which he scored a hat-trick and his emotional reaction after scoring one of the goals led to speculation about his father’s health. The Argentina captain later confirmed that his emotions were linked to something happening away from football. His family subsequently denied reports claiming that Jorge had died and said he was making steady progress in his recovery. Also Read - Arsenal sign Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United Jorge Messi played an important role in Lionel Messi’s career and was much more than just his father, as he was involved in several key decisions from the early stages of Messi’s journey and was a trusted figure during the talks that eventually resulted in Lionel moving from Argentina to Barcelona. Jorge also played a role in deals that took Messi to Paris Saint-Germain and later Inter Miami. Messi’s family was not seen in the stands during the 2026 World Cup, where Argentina finished as runners-up to Spain.

Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, has passed away at the age of 68, with the news confirmed by the Argentine star’s former club Newell’s Old Boys on Saturday.

Lionel Messi’s father Jorge passes away at 68

Arsenal have confirmed the signing of Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United for a reported fixed fee of €75 million, with the Brazilian midfielder signing a four-year contract that includes an option to extend his stay by another year, according to ESPN. Guimaraes said he was excited about joining Arsenal and saw the move as a new challenge in his career.&nbsp;“I feel good, I feel amazing. I’m glad for the opportunity. Since the first time I spoke to (Andrea) Berta and Mikel (Arteta), I was excited. I just felt inside of me that I need a new challenge in my life and I think to be an Arsenal player is going to be an exciting challenge in my life,” Guimaraes said.&nbsp;The midfielder also thanked Arsenal fans for their support and messages and promised to give his best for the club.&nbsp;“The message for me is thank you for everything you have done. All the messages you gave me, I’m so excited to join you. I will give you my best, I promise. Like I said, I’m your warrior, I’ll never give up. Hopefully we can create many, many good memories together,” he added, as quoted by ESPN.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jemimah-rodrigues-suffers-injury-blow-ruled-out-of-the-hundred-1786188196539">Jemimah Rodrigues suffers injury blow, ruled out of The Hundred</a>&nbsp;Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta welcomed the 28-year-old and praised his mentality, quality and leadership.&nbsp;“We are delighted to welcome Bruno Guimaraes to our club. Bruno is a player with a great mentality and great quality, who will bring strong leadership to our squad.”&nbsp;Berta also highlighted Guimaraes’ ability to play in different midfield roles.&nbsp;“With Bruno joining us, we are further strengthening the heart of our team. As we have all seen, Bruno can play as a defensive midfielder and as a box-to-box player. He combines quality with quantity, and has provided goals and assists for his team every year,” Andrea said.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/korea-masters-2026-ashmita-chaliha-beats-rakshitha-ramraj-to-reach-final-1786180626257">Korea Masters 2026: Ashmita Chaliha beats Rakshitha Ramraj to reach final</a>&nbsp;He added that the signing would give Mikel Arteta more options and increase competition within the squad.&nbsp;“Bruno will allow Mikel to further develop our playing style and will also increase our internal competitiveness, which is essential for maintaining the standards required when we are aiming to win major trophies,” he concluded.&nbsp;Guimaraes had emerged as one of Arsenal’s main targets during the summer. Arteta wanted to add more strength to his midfield as the club prepared for its Premier League title defence.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Arsenal have signed Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United in a big-money move, making him the club’s fourth signing of the summer under Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal have confirmed the signing of Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United for a reported fixed fee of €75 million, with the Brazilian midfielder signing a four-year contract that includes an option to extend his stay by another year, according to ESPN. Guimaraes said he was excited about joining Arsenal and saw the move as a new challenge in his career. “I feel good, I feel amazing. I’m glad for the opportunity. Since the first time I spoke to (Andrea) Berta and Mikel (Arteta), I was excited. I just felt inside of me that I need a new challenge in my life and I think to be an Arsenal player is going to be an exciting challenge in my life,” Guimaraes said. The midfielder also thanked Arsenal fans for their support and messages and promised to give his best for the club. “The message for me is thank you for everything you have done. All the messages you gave me, I’m so excited to join you. I will give you my best, I promise. Like I said, I’m your warrior, I’ll never give up. Hopefully we can create many, many good memories together,” he added, as quoted by ESPN. Also Read - Jemimah Rodrigues suffers injury blow, ruled out of The Hundred Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta welcomed the 28-year-old and praised his mentality, quality and leadership. “We are delighted to welcome Bruno Guimaraes to our club. Bruno is a player with a great mentality and great quality, who will bring strong leadership to our squad.” Berta also highlighted Guimaraes’ ability to play in different midfield roles. “With Bruno joining us, we are further strengthening the heart of our team. As we have all seen, Bruno can play as a defensive midfielder and as a box-to-box player. He combines quality with quantity, and has provided goals and assists for his team every year,” Andrea said. Also Read - Korea Masters 2026: Ashmita Chaliha beats Rakshitha Ramraj to reach final He added that the signing would give Mikel Arteta more options and increase competition within the squad. “Bruno will allow Mikel to further develop our playing style and will also increase our internal competitiveness, which is essential for maintaining the standards required when we are aiming to win major trophies,” he concluded. Guimaraes had emerged as one of Arsenal’s main targets during the summer. Arteta wanted to add more strength to his midfield as the club prepared for its Premier League title defence. With inputs from agencies

Arsenal have signed Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United in a big-money move, making him the club’s fourth signing of the summer under Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal sign Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United

FIFA President Gianni Infantino and UEFA have both dismissed claims of the European footballing body paying a six-figure amount to Infantino’s alleged secret lover during his time as the association’s general secretary. Shocking claims have gone viral, putting Infantino, who continues to fight for his place as head of FIFA, in hot water.&nbsp;Infantino recently made headlines for all the wrong reasons – first for overturning the US striker Folarin Balogun’s 'controversial red card' appeal during the concluded World Cup on Donald Trump’s request, and secondly for ‘crossing the red line’ by wanting to sell the stake of the World Cup to private investors. He faced massive backlash over his decisions, with FAs worldwide uniting to vote him out of power ahead of the next elections.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pressure-continues-to-mount-on-fifa-chief-infantino-as-uefa-maintains-boycott-threat-conmebol-criticises-1786077683861">Pressure continues to mount on FIFA chief Infantino as UEFA maintains boycott threat, CONMEBOL criticises</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, a report in The Daily Telegraph claims that an unnamed woman received a six-figure amount after her relationship with Infantino, and that UEFA also paid for her MBA degree after she had left the organisation.<h2>UEFA and FIFA Deny Allegations</h2>UEFA has refuted these claims in the latest development. &nbsp;"The payment was in line with the regulations that existed for departing staff at the time. Such regulations have been tightened since 2016 and the current staff regulations - which apply to all UEFA employees at whatever level - reflect those found in a modern, high-profile organisation,” a UEFA spokesperson said in a chat with Sky News. &nbsp;On the other hand, a FIFA spokesperson also denied all allegations levelled against the FIFA boss. &nbsp;"Any insinuation of inappropriate conduct or violation of statutes or regulations is defamatory," the FIFA spokesperson said in a statement to Sky News. &nbsp;Infantino worked at UEFA for close to two decades (from 2000 to 2016) before being elected as the FIFA president.&nbsp; &nbsp;"No employee at UEFA and FIFA has ever raised a complaint regarding Mr Infantino's behaviour because there never was an incident where he was involved. "All company actions related to employees, including any departure and severance packages, have always been approved by the appropriate directors in accordance with all applicable regulations," the spokesperson added.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino and UEFA have denied allegations regarding a six-figure payment and MBA sponsorship for an alleged secret lover during his time as UEFA general secretary.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino and UEFA have both dismissed claims of the European footballing body paying a six-figure amount to Infantino’s alleged secret lover during his time as the association’s general secretary. Shocking claims have gone viral, putting Infantino, who continues to fight for his place as head of FIFA, in hot water. Infantino recently made headlines for all the wrong reasons – first for overturning the US striker Folarin Balogun’s 'controversial red card' appeal during the concluded World Cup on Donald Trump’s request, and secondly for ‘crossing the red line’ by wanting to sell the stake of the World Cup to private investors. He faced massive backlash over his decisions, with FAs worldwide uniting to vote him out of power ahead of the next elections. Also read| Pressure continues to mount on FIFA chief Infantino as UEFA maintains boycott threat, CONMEBOL criticises Meanwhile, a report in The Daily Telegraph claims that an unnamed woman received a six-figure amount after her relationship with Infantino, and that UEFA also paid for her MBA degree after she had left the organisation. UEFA and FIFA Deny Allegations UEFA has refuted these claims in the latest development. "The payment was in line with the regulations that existed for departing staff at the time. Such regulations have been tightened since 2016 and the current staff regulations - which apply to all UEFA employees at whatever level - reflect those found in a modern, high-profile organisation,” a UEFA spokesperson said in a chat with Sky News. On the other hand, a FIFA spokesperson also denied all allegations levelled against the FIFA boss. "Any insinuation of inappropriate conduct or violation of statutes or regulations is defamatory," the FIFA spokesperson said in a statement to Sky News. Infantino worked at UEFA for close to two decades (from 2000 to 2016) before being elected as the FIFA president. "No employee at UEFA and FIFA has ever raised a complaint regarding Mr Infantino's behaviour because there never was an incident where he was involved. "All company actions related to employees, including any departure and severance packages, have always been approved by the appropriate directors in accordance with all applicable regulations," the spokesperson added.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino and UEFA have denied allegations regarding a six-figure payment and MBA sponsorship for an alleged secret lover during his time as UEFA general secretary.

FIFA boss and UEFA dismiss claims of 'six-figure' payment to Infantino's secret lover

Pressure built on FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Thursday over his cancelled plan to bring private finance into football's World Cup, with European governing body UEFA reiterating a threat to boycott tournaments. The 56-year-old Swiss official has also been criticised by South American body CONMEBOL. But he did get backing from the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Infantino received the "full support" of senior FIFA directors at an emergency meeting in Morocco on Wednesday but UEFA released a blunt statement in response.UEFA's initial threat issued last Thursday to boycott FIFA competitions is said to have been pivotal in forcing Infantino to shelve the private investment deal.Calls for him to step down had grown since he abandoned it last Saturday.FIFA said it could raise up to $4.2 billion based on a valuation of $20 billion for a new commercial subsidiary, called the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), which it proposed would run events such as the World Cup and Club World Cup.Although the abandonment of the proposal was one of UEFA's conditions for it to withdraw its threat, it said that not all of its demands had been met."UEFA's associations were very clear about the conditions attached to their non participation in FIFA competitions," read its statement"First, the proposals to sell off the major competitions had to be withdrawn and secondly, assurances have to be made that such attempts to disfigure the game in this way will never be made again."These conditions have not been met."Whilst UEFA welcomed the withdrawal of the plan last Saturday, it had slammed Infantino and his "shabby, backroom, opaque deal".Its tone had not changed in Thursday's statement."UEFA made it abundantly clear in its statement on Saturday that it has lost confidence in Gianni Infantino's presidency. That position holds," it said.Several UEFA member associations have withdrawn support for Infantino's bid to be re-elected to a fourth and final term in Rabat next March.A prominent critic, Norwegian football chief Lise Klaveness, is likely to pour more fuel on the fire when she holds a press conference on Friday.<h2>‘Abuse of power’</h2>Infantino was also criticised by usually supportive South American governing body CONMEBOL."The Council also unanimously expresses its concern regarding the repeated unilateral actions taken without resorting to dialogue or to the institutional mechanisms established to address situations of this nature," read its statement.CONMEBOL, though, said regarding Infantino's future it would not countenance anything other than a straight contest -- if a challenger comes forward by November 18 when nominations close -- in Rabat.There is a mechanism whereby an extraordinary FIFA congress can be called and a vote of no confidence in Infantino held.North and Central American football's governing body CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) have both been critical of Infantino, but were yet to react to the latest developments.CONCACAF -- whose president Victor Montagliani is seen as a potential challenger -- had called for "a comprehensive reckoning with this presidency".FIFPRO, the players union, piled into Infantino over the plan calling it "a profound abuse of presidential power"."FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) is gone," it said in a statement."The abuse of power that produced it is not."Support did come Infantino's way on Thursday, however, as CAF "unanimously reconfirmed its support" for the FIFA president in a statement released following a meeting of its members.Several CAF members had already expressed their support for the Swiss official, who has been in power for 10 years. South Africa's sports minister Gayton McKenzie had urged African football to resist what he called the "public lynching" of Infantino.CONMEBOL said it was a shame the hugely successful staging of the World Cup -- the first with 48 teams and spread over three countries -- had had its thunder stolen by the events over the past week."The CONMEBOL Council calls for preserving the unity of the football family," it said.

The 56-year-old Swiss official has also been criticised by South American body CONMEBOL. But he did get backing from the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Infantino received the "full support" of senior FIFA directors at an emergency meeting in Morocco on Wednesday.

Pressure built on FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Thursday over his cancelled plan to bring private finance into football's World Cup, with European governing body UEFA reiterating a threat to boycott tournaments. The 56-year-old Swiss official has also been criticised by South American body CONMEBOL. But he did get backing from the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Infantino received the "full support" of senior FIFA directors at an emergency meeting in Morocco on Wednesday but UEFA released a blunt statement in response. UEFA's initial threat issued last Thursday to boycott FIFA competitions is said to have been pivotal in forcing Infantino to shelve the private investment deal. Calls for him to step down had grown since he abandoned it last Saturday. FIFA said it could raise up to $4.2 billion based on a valuation of $20 billion for a new commercial subsidiary, called the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), which it proposed would run events such as the World Cup and Club World Cup. Although the abandonment of the proposal was one of UEFA's conditions for it to withdraw its threat, it said that not all of its demands had been met. "UEFA's associations were very clear about the conditions attached to their non participation in FIFA competitions," read its statement "First, the proposals to sell off the major competitions had to be withdrawn and secondly, assurances have to be made that such attempts to disfigure the game in this way will never be made again. "These conditions have not been met." Whilst UEFA welcomed the withdrawal of the plan last Saturday, it had slammed Infantino and his "shabby, backroom, opaque deal". Its tone had not changed in Thursday's statement. "UEFA made it abundantly clear in its statement on Saturday that it has lost confidence in Gianni Infantino's presidency. That position holds," it said. Several UEFA member associations have withdrawn support for Infantino's bid to be re-elected to a fourth and final term in Rabat next March. A prominent critic, Norwegian football chief Lise Klaveness, is likely to pour more fuel on the fire when she holds a press conference on Friday. ‘Abuse of power’ Infantino was also criticised by usually supportive South American governing body CONMEBOL. "The Council also unanimously expresses its concern regarding the repeated unilateral actions taken without resorting to dialogue or to the institutional mechanisms established to address situations of this nature," read its statement. CONMEBOL, though, said regarding Infantino's future it would not countenance anything other than a straight contest -- if a challenger comes forward by November 18 when nominations close -- in Rabat. There is a mechanism whereby an extraordinary FIFA congress can be called and a vote of no confidence in Infantino held. North and Central American football's governing body CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) have both been critical of Infantino, but were yet to react to the latest developments. CONCACAF -- whose president Victor Montagliani is seen as a potential challenger -- had called for "a comprehensive reckoning with this presidency". FIFPRO, the players union, piled into Infantino over the plan calling it "a profound abuse of presidential power". "FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) is gone," it said in a statement. "The abuse of power that produced it is not." Support did come Infantino's way on Thursday, however, as CAF "unanimously reconfirmed its support" for the FIFA president in a statement released following a meeting of its members. Several CAF members had already expressed their support for the Swiss official, who has been in power for 10 years. South Africa's sports minister Gayton McKenzie had urged African football to resist what he called the "public lynching" of Infantino. CONMEBOL said it was a shame the hugely successful staging of the World Cup -- the first with 48 teams and spread over three countries -- had had its thunder stolen by the events over the past week. "The CONMEBOL Council calls for preserving the unity of the football family," it said.

The 56-year-old Swiss official has also been criticised by South American body CONMEBOL. But he did get backing from the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Infantino received the "full support" of senior FIFA directors at an emergency meeting in Morocco on Wednesday.

Pressure continues to mount on FIFA chief Infantino as UEFA maintains boycott threat, CONMEBOL criticises

football

Football, News on Football, stories on Football, articles on Football, Football stories at Wion, Football news, Football latest news

football

German Supercup: Olise masterclass powers Bayern past Dortmund to retain title

‘Domination, clarity and understanding’: Arteta hails Arsenal’s perfect PL start

Lionel Messi and Miami teammate fined by MLS for stoppage-time slap incident

Paredes handed 10-game ban as FIFA suspends three Argentina players

FIFA WC 2002 winner Ronaldinho, 46, set for unbelievable professional comeback

Infantino faces fresh setback as senior FIFA official pulls support

Kane wins second European Golden Shoe award and has 'no itch' to return to PL

Bayern Munich's Musiala reveals suffering from neurological disorder

Harry Kane set for extended Bayern Munich stay as contract negotiations begin

‘Probably My Last Year’: Ronaldo teases football retirement after 2026/27 season

World Cup winner Rodri set for Barcelona move in €76.5m Manchester City transfer

Community Shield 26: Arsenal beat Manchester City to lift first trophy of season

PSG sign World Cup hero Ferran Torres from Barcelona

India prioritise Brazil friendly, withdraw from FIFA ASEAN Cup

Lionel Messi doesn't 'know how to move forward' after death of his father

‘A Huge Hug to You, Leo’: Ronaldo's heartfelt message to Messi on father’s death

Portugese star Cristiano Ronaldo ties knot with long-time partner Rodriguez