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Thursday's draw for this season's Champions League has been somewhat overshadowed by the latest developments in the dispute between UEFA and FIFA over plans to bring private financing into the World Cup, with European football's governing body expected to drop a threatened boycott of global competitions. UEFA, whose clubs and national teams dominate football's global economy, reacted furiously when it emerged in late July that Gianni Infantino's FIFA was aiming to create a commercial subsidiary to run its biggest events, such as the World Cup and Club World Cup.The proposal would have allowed private investors to acquire stakes in a company created under the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) initiative.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-open-2026-watch-roger-federer-makes-winning-return-to-arthur-ashe-stadium-1787737438311">US Open 2026: Roger Federer makes winning return to Arthur Ashe Stadium</a>UEFA, under president Aleksander Ceferin, had described the proposal in scathing terms, labelling it a "shady, opaque backroom deal"."No UEFA national teams will participate in any FIFA competition for so long as these proposals remain alive," said the European governing body in a strong statement widely credited as being pivotal in the controversial plan being quickly shelved.However, with UEFA executives and European member associations meeting in the glitzy surrounds of Monaco on Thursday just before the Champions League draw, sources told AFP the threat to boycott FIFA tournaments would "likely" be withdrawn.UEFA had demanded that the plan be ditched, but also sought assurances "that such attempts to disfigure the game in this way will never be made again".One source on Wednesday told AFP that they were satisfied that second condition had now been met.The immediate result of that will be that UEFA does not risk undermining its united front in wanting Infantino to step down, which would be the case if not all of its members backed a boycott.The Under-20 Women's World Cup takes place in Poland next month and European qualifying for the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil is still ongoing.<h2>PSG target three in a row</h2>Meanwhile, in the men's game, the focus reverts back to the cream of club football in the aftermath of the World Cup in North America.With the leading leagues in Europe getting going again, the continent's elite will discover later Thursday who they will face in the league phase of this season's Champions League.Paris Saint-Germain will begin their quest to win a third consecutive title after retaining the European Cup at the end of last season by beating Arsenal on penalties in the final in Budapest.The Real Madrid team of 2016 to 2018 are the only side in the last 50 years to have been European champions three years running."We have won the last two, which means we can win a third. It will be very hard, but that is our ambition," PSG coach Luis Enrique told reporters earlier this month.This is the third season since the introduction of a new format for the Champions League, with 36 teams now all pooled together in one giant league and each playing games against eight different opponents.Elite European club football is becoming increasingly polarised, and the continent's richest teams will again feature prominently and take away the majority of the riches on offer.Half the competing clubs will come from the leading domestic leagues in England, Spain, Italy and Germany. The Premier League has five representatives in Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool and Aston Villa, while Spain also has five clubs including Real Betis who return to the Champions League after two decades away.Como, coached by former Arsenal, Barcelona and Spain star Cesc Fabregas, will feature for the first time after upsetting the traditional order in Italy.There will also be a Champions League debut for upstarts Sabah of Azerbaijan, who started out in the first qualifying round and have won four ties to reach this point.LASK of Austria also make their debut in the Champions League proper after a stunning comeback to beat Celtic in the play-offs.The first round of matches in this season's competition will take place between Tuesday, September 8 and Thursday, September 10.The league phase will conclude in late January, while this season's final will be played at the Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid on June 5, 2027.

UEFA, whose clubs and national teams dominate football's global economy, reacted furiously when it emerged in late July that Gianni Infantino's FIFA was aiming to create a commercial subsidiary to run its biggest events, such as the World Cup and Club World Cup.

Thursday's draw for this season's Champions League has been somewhat overshadowed by the latest developments in the dispute between UEFA and FIFA over plans to bring private financing into the World Cup, with European football's governing body expected to drop a threatened boycott of global competitions. UEFA, whose clubs and national teams dominate football's global economy, reacted furiously when it emerged in late July that Gianni Infantino's FIFA was aiming to create a commercial subsidiary to run its biggest events, such as the World Cup and Club World Cup. The proposal would have allowed private investors to acquire stakes in a company created under the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) initiative. Also Read - US Open 2026: Roger Federer makes winning return to Arthur Ashe Stadium UEFA, under president Aleksander Ceferin, had described the proposal in scathing terms, labelling it a "shady, opaque backroom deal". "No UEFA national teams will participate in any FIFA competition for so long as these proposals remain alive," said the European governing body in a strong statement widely credited as being pivotal in the controversial plan being quickly shelved. However, with UEFA executives and European member associations meeting in the glitzy surrounds of Monaco on Thursday just before the Champions League draw, sources told AFP the threat to boycott FIFA tournaments would "likely" be withdrawn. UEFA had demanded that the plan be ditched, but also sought assurances "that such attempts to disfigure the game in this way will never be made again". One source on Wednesday told AFP that they were satisfied that second condition had now been met. The immediate result of that will be that UEFA does not risk undermining its united front in wanting Infantino to step down, which would be the case if not all of its members backed a boycott. The Under-20 Women's World Cup takes place in Poland next month and European qualifying for the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil is still ongoing. PSG target three in a row Meanwhile, in the men's game, the focus reverts back to the cream of club football in the aftermath of the World Cup in North America. With the leading leagues in Europe getting going again, the continent's elite will discover later Thursday who they will face in the league phase of this season's Champions League. Paris Saint-Germain will begin their quest to win a third consecutive title after retaining the European Cup at the end of last season by beating Arsenal on penalties in the final in Budapest. The Real Madrid team of 2016 to 2018 are the only side in the last 50 years to have been European champions three years running. "We have won the last two, which means we can win a third. It will be very hard, but that is our ambition," PSG coach Luis Enrique told reporters earlier this month. This is the third season since the introduction of a new format for the Champions League, with 36 teams now all pooled together in one giant league and each playing games against eight different opponents. Elite European club football is becoming increasingly polarised, and the continent's richest teams will again feature prominently and take away the majority of the riches on offer. Half the competing clubs will come from the leading domestic leagues in England, Spain, Italy and Germany. The Premier League has five representatives in Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, Liverpool and Aston Villa, while Spain also has five clubs including Real Betis who return to the Champions League after two decades away. Como, coached by former Arsenal, Barcelona and Spain star Cesc Fabregas, will feature for the first time after upsetting the traditional order in Italy. There will also be a Champions League debut for upstarts Sabah of Azerbaijan, who started out in the first qualifying round and have won four ties to reach this point. LASK of Austria also make their debut in the Champions League proper after a stunning comeback to beat Celtic in the play-offs. The first round of matches in this season's competition will take place between Tuesday, September 8 and Thursday, September 10. The league phase will conclude in late January, while this season's final will be played at the Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid on June 5, 2027.

UEFA, whose clubs and national teams dominate football's global economy, reacted furiously when it emerged in late July that Gianni Infantino's FIFA was aiming to create a commercial subsidiary to run its biggest events, such as the World Cup and Club World Cup.

UEFA to withdraw boycott threat against FIFA ahead of Champions League draw

Former Manchester City and Chelsea player Raheem Sterling has been charged with dangerous driving and possession of a Class C drug, and is now looking at possible jail time. Sterling, 31, who is currently a free agent, has been charged in connection with a crash involving his Lamborghini in May earlier this year. He has also been charged with failing to provide a specimen following the single-vehicle crash, in which no one was hurt. He is due to appear before a Basingstoke Magistrates' Court judge on September 15.<h2>Raheem Sterling's crash charges</h2>The ex-England winger was reported by concerned motorists and was arrested on May 28 while driving on the southbound carriageway of the M3 motorway. At the time, Sterling was released on bail while the inquiry continued.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-matchday-1-who-won-and-who-lost-check-full-results-and-standings-1787649035026">Premier League, matchday 1: Who won &amp; who lost - check full results, standings</a>A Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary spokesman has now said: "Raheem Sterling, 31, from Berkshire, has been charged with the following offences: dangerous driving, possession of nitrous oxide for wrongful inhalation, and failing to provide a specimen."If convicted, Sterling - who won the PFA Young Player of the Year award during the 2018–19 season - could face up to two years in prison for dangerous driving as well as possession of a Class C drug.<h2>Sterling's rise and downfall</h2>Raheem started with Liverpool in the Premier League in 2012 and played with them until the 2014-15 season, scoring 18 goals in 95 league appearances. He then joined Manchester City, where he peaked and won four PL titles, scoring 91 goals in 225 league appearances during his stay from 2015 to 2022. From City, he moved to Chelsea in a £47.5 million deal in 2022, but failed to live up to expectations. He spent the 2024–25 season on loan with Arsenal and moved to Dutch club Feyenoord after Chelsea terminated his contract. He scored only 14 goals for the Blues at Stamford Bridge across 59 appearances.

Ex-England winger Raheem Sterling, 31, faces up to 2 years in prison after being charged with dangerous driving, possessing a Class C drug, and failing to provide a specimen. Court date is Sept 15.

Former Manchester City and Chelsea player Raheem Sterling has been charged with dangerous driving and possession of a Class C drug, and is now looking at possible jail time. Sterling, 31, who is currently a free agent, has been charged in connection with a crash involving his Lamborghini in May earlier this year. He has also been charged with failing to provide a specimen following the single-vehicle crash, in which no one was hurt. He is due to appear before a Basingstoke Magistrates' Court judge on September 15. Raheem Sterling's crash charges The ex-England winger was reported by concerned motorists and was arrested on May 28 while driving on the southbound carriageway of the M3 motorway. At the time, Sterling was released on bail while the inquiry continued. Also Read - Premier League, matchday 1: Who won & who lost - check full results, standings A Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary spokesman has now said: "Raheem Sterling, 31, from Berkshire, has been charged with the following offences: dangerous driving, possession of nitrous oxide for wrongful inhalation, and failing to provide a specimen." If convicted, Sterling - who won the PFA Young Player of the Year award during the 2018–19 season - could face up to two years in prison for dangerous driving as well as possession of a Class C drug. Sterling's rise and downfall Raheem started with Liverpool in the Premier League in 2012 and played with them until the 2014-15 season, scoring 18 goals in 95 league appearances. He then joined Manchester City, where he peaked and won four PL titles, scoring 91 goals in 225 league appearances during his stay from 2015 to 2022. From City, he moved to Chelsea in a £47.5 million deal in 2022, but failed to live up to expectations. He spent the 2024–25 season on loan with Arsenal and moved to Dutch club Feyenoord after Chelsea terminated his contract. He scored only 14 goals for the Blues at Stamford Bridge across 59 appearances.

Ex-England winger Raheem Sterling, 31, faces up to 2 years in prison after being charged with dangerous driving, possessing a Class C drug, and failing to provide a specimen. Court date is Sept 15.

Ex-Chelsea, Man City winger Sterling looking at 'up to two years in prison' for May car crash

The matchday 1 games of the English Premier League (EPL) 2026/27 season are done, and only one game out of the 10 played between 20 teams ended in a draw. Apart from Liverpool playing out a 2-2 draw against Newcastle on Sunday (Aug 23), the rest of the nine matches produced a winner. Below are the complete results of each game from matchday 1 of the ongoing EPL season:<h2>Arsenal 3-0 Coventry</h2>Defending champions Arsenal started their title defence with a 3-0 win against Coventry on Saturday (Aug 22) at the Emirates Stadium in London. For Arsenal, Kai Havertz (15'), Bukayo Saka (23'), and Martin Odegaard (49') scored one goal each, giving the Gunners their first three points.<h2>Hull 2-0 Manchester United</h2>Once a PL giant, Manchester United's rut of form in recent years continued as they lost 0-2 to promoted Hull City on Saturday (Aug 22) at the MKM Stadium. Semi Ajayi (17') and Nobel Mendy (38') scored the goals for Hull City as Manchester United played catch up for the rest of the game without a breakthrough.<h2>Ipswich Town 2-1 Sunderland</h2>Emersonn (24') gave an early lead to Ipswich Town against Sunderland on Saturday (Aug 22) at Portman Road, Ipswich, before Nilson Angulo (39') netted an equalizer. Jack Clarke (90') then scored the winning goal for Ipswich Town, giving them crucial three points in the thriller.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-to-take-on-panama-in-fifa-friendly-ahead-of-brazil-clash-1787566037063">India to take on Panama in FIFA friendly ahead of Brazil clash</a><h2>Everton 2-0 Crystal Palace</h2>In the fourth match of Saturday (Aug 22), Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (42') and Thierno Barry (53') scored on either side of half-time as Everton made a winning start by beating Crystal Palace at the Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool.<h2>Leeds United 1-0 Nottingham Forest</h2>The Leeds vs Nottm Forest match on Saturday (Aug 22) at the City Ground was heading for a draw after 87 goalless minutes before Anton Stach (88') scored the winner for Leeds, giving them three points.<h2>Brentford 3-0 Tottenham Hotspur</h2> Spurs fought hard not to get relegated last season, but their journey in the ongoing EPL season started with another loss. Keane Lewis-Potter (12') and Vitaly Janelt (33') scored in the first half, while Michael Kayode (49') scored four minutes into the second half at the Gtech Community Stadium in Brentford to give the three winning points to the home side.<h2>Brighton 4-0 Aston Villa</h2>Brighton secured the biggest victory of EPL matchday 1, beating Aston Villa 4-0 on Sunday (Aug 23) at the American Express Stadium, Brighton and Hove for the top spot on the <a href="https://www.premierleague.com/en/tables/premier-league">points table</a>. For the home side, the first goal came when Aston Villa's Victor Lindelof scored an own goal (8'). Maxim De Cuyper doubled the hosts' lead 10 minutes later before Jack Hinshelwood scored two goals in the space of two minutes (30', 31') to take the home side to 4-0. As frustration mounted, Aston Villa even lost Joao Gomes in the 40' to a red card.<h2>Manchester City 2-1 Bournemouth</h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-haaland-lets-go-of-hair-for-buzzcut-and-opening-game-goal-scoring-1787560813183">Erling Haaland stole the spotlight</a> with his new buzzcut in place of his famous blonde locks as Manchester City started the EPL season with a come-from-behind victory against Bournemouth at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester. Bournemouth took an early lead as Marcus Tavernier (26') found the net, and the score remained 1-0 in their favour for the next 58 minutes. Marc Guehi (84') finally scored the equalizer for City before Josko Gvardiol's injury-time (90+2') goal gave City three points and a win.<h2>Liverpool 2-2 Newcastle</h2>Liverpool survived a scare against Newcastle as the game ended in a 2-2 draw on Sunday (Aug 23) at St. James' Park, Newcastle. Anthony Elanga (5') scored lightning quick to give the hosts a 1-0 lead, and the score remained the same until after half-time. Cody Gakpo (55') scored the equalizer for Liverpool, but Joe Willock (57') hit back immediately to bring Newcastle into the lead once more. Dominik Szoboszlai (90+9') then scored the second equalizer for Liverpool as they were saved from embarrassment.<h2>Chelsea 3-2 Fulham</h2>In the final game of matchday 1 of the EPL, Chelsea beat Fulham 3-2 to start the Xabi Alonso era with a win on Monday (Aug 24) at Craven Cottage, London. Joao Pedro scored for the visitors in the first minute before Josh King (23') hit back for the hosts. Morgan Rogers (41') and Cole Palmer (49') then took Chelsea 3-1 up before Gonzalo Garcia (54') cut down Fulham's deficit to one goal, but they still lost.<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Team</td><td>Matches</td><td>Win</td><td>Loss</td><td>Draw</td><td>Points</td></tr><tr><td>Brighton</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Brentford</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Arsenal</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Hull</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Everton</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Chelsea</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Ipswich Town</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Man City</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Leeds</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Liverpool</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>1</td></tr><tr><td>Newcastle</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>1</td></tr><tr><td>Fulham</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Bournemouth</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Sunderland</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Nottingham Forest</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Crystal Palace</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Man United</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Spurs</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Coventry</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Aston Villa</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

EPL Matchday 1 ended with nine wins and one draw (Liverpool 2-2 Newcastle). Arsenal, Man City, and Chelsea all secured victories, while Manchester United suffered a 2-0 loss to promoted Hull City.

The matchday 1 games of the English Premier League (EPL) 2026/27 season are done, and only one game out of the 10 played between 20 teams ended in a draw. Apart from Liverpool playing out a 2-2 draw against Newcastle on Sunday (Aug 23), the rest of the nine matches produced a winner. Below are the complete results of each game from matchday 1 of the ongoing EPL season: Arsenal 3-0 Coventry Defending champions Arsenal started their title defence with a 3-0 win against Coventry on Saturday (Aug 22) at the Emirates Stadium in London. For Arsenal, Kai Havertz (15'), Bukayo Saka (23'), and Martin Odegaard (49') scored one goal each, giving the Gunners their first three points. Hull 2-0 Manchester United Once a PL giant, Manchester United's rut of form in recent years continued as they lost 0-2 to promoted Hull City on Saturday (Aug 22) at the MKM Stadium. Semi Ajayi (17') and Nobel Mendy (38') scored the goals for Hull City as Manchester United played catch up for the rest of the game without a breakthrough. Ipswich Town 2-1 Sunderland Emersonn (24') gave an early lead to Ipswich Town against Sunderland on Saturday (Aug 22) at Portman Road, Ipswich, before Nilson Angulo (39') netted an equalizer. Jack Clarke (90') then scored the winning goal for Ipswich Town, giving them crucial three points in the thriller. Also Read - India to take on Panama in FIFA friendly ahead of Brazil clash Everton 2-0 Crystal Palace In the fourth match of Saturday (Aug 22), Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (42') and Thierno Barry (53') scored on either side of half-time as Everton made a winning start by beating Crystal Palace at the Hill Dickinson Stadium in Liverpool. Leeds United 1-0 Nottingham Forest The Leeds vs Nottm Forest match on Saturday (Aug 22) at the City Ground was heading for a draw after 87 goalless minutes before Anton Stach (88') scored the winner for Leeds, giving them three points. Brentford 3-0 Tottenham Hotspur Spurs fought hard not to get relegated last season, but their journey in the ongoing EPL season started with another loss. Keane Lewis-Potter (12') and Vitaly Janelt (33') scored in the first half, while Michael Kayode (49') scored four minutes into the second half at the Gtech Community Stadium in Brentford to give the three winning points to the home side. Brighton 4-0 Aston Villa Brighton secured the biggest victory of EPL matchday 1, beating Aston Villa 4-0 on Sunday (Aug 23) at the American Express Stadium, Brighton and Hove for the top spot on the points table. For the home side, the first goal came when Aston Villa's Victor Lindelof scored an own goal (8'). Maxim De Cuyper doubled the hosts' lead 10 minutes later before Jack Hinshelwood scored two goals in the space of two minutes (30', 31') to take the home side to 4-0. As frustration mounted, Aston Villa even lost Joao Gomes in the 40' to a red card. Manchester City 2-1 Bournemouth Erling Haaland stole the spotlight with his new buzzcut in place of his famous blonde locks as Manchester City started the EPL season with a come-from-behind victory against Bournemouth at the Etihad Stadium in Manchester. Bournemouth took an early lead as Marcus Tavernier (26') found the net, and the score remained 1-0 in their favour for the next 58 minutes. Marc Guehi (84') finally scored the equalizer for City before Josko Gvardiol's injury-time (90+2') goal gave City three points and a win. Liverpool 2-2 Newcastle Liverpool survived a scare against Newcastle as the game ended in a 2-2 draw on Sunday (Aug 23) at St. James' Park, Newcastle. Anthony Elanga (5') scored lightning quick to give the hosts a 1-0 lead, and the score remained the same until after half-time. Cody Gakpo (55') scored the equalizer for Liverpool, but Joe Willock (57') hit back immediately to bring Newcastle into the lead once more. Dominik Szoboszlai (90+9') then scored the second equalizer for Liverpool as they were saved from embarrassment. Chelsea 3-2 Fulham In the final game of matchday 1 of the EPL, Chelsea beat Fulham 3-2 to start the Xabi Alonso era with a win on Monday (Aug 24) at Craven Cottage, London. Joao Pedro scored for the visitors in the first minute before Josh King (23') hit back for the hosts. Morgan Rogers (41') and Cole Palmer (49') then took Chelsea 3-1 up before Gonzalo Garcia (54') cut down Fulham's deficit to one goal, but they still lost. Team Matches Win Loss Draw Points Brighton 1 1 0 0 3 Brentford 1 1 0 0 3 Arsenal 1 1 0 0 3 Hull 1 1 0 0 3 Everton 1 1 0 0 3 Chelsea 1 1 0 0 3 Ipswich Town 1 1 0 0 3 Man City 1 1 0 0 3 Leeds 1 1 0 0 3 Liverpool 1 0 0 1 1 Newcastle 1 0 0 1 1 Fulham 1 0 0 0 0 Bournemouth 1 0 1 0 0 Sunderland 1 0 1 0 0 Nottingham Forest 1 0 1 0 0 Crystal Palace 1 0 1 0 0 Man United 1 0 1 0 0 Spurs 1 0 1 0 0 Coventry 1 0 1 0 0 Aston Villa 1 0 1 0 0

EPL Matchday 1 ended with nine wins and one draw (Liverpool 2-2 Newcastle). Arsenal, Man City, and Chelsea all secured victories, while Manchester United suffered a 2-0 loss to promoted Hull City.

Premier League, matchday 1: Who won and who lost - check full results and standings

Xabi Alonso won his first game as Chelsea boss thanks to Morgan Rogers's debut goal and Joao Pedro's strike after just 31 seconds of a pulsating 3-2 victory against Fulham on Monday (Aug 24). Alonso has been hired to revive Chelsea after their dismal 10th place finish in the Premier League last season. The former Real Madrid boss has a point to prove after being sacked by the Spanish club following less than eight months in charge. Alonso's side ensured he delivered a good first impression in a chaotic west London derby at Craven Cottage.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-to-take-on-panama-in-fifa-friendly-ahead-of-brazil-clash-1787566037063">India to take on Panama in FIFA friendly ahead of Brazil clash</a>Pedro's opener inside the first minute was followed by a blunder from Chelsea keeper Robert Sanchez that gifted an equaliser to Josh King.Rogers put Chelsea back in front on his debut after becoming the most expensive British player in history following his £117 million ($159 million) move from Aston Villa in the close-season.Cole Palmer increased Chelsea's advantage after half-time and the Blues survived a frantic finale after Gonzalo Garcia bagged Fulham's second goal following another Sanchez mistake.On an evening when old friends were reunited on the touchline and on the pitch, Alonso emerged victorious against new Fulham boss Alvaro Arbeloa.The pals played together for seven years with Real Madrid and Liverpool and also starred for Spain.Ironically, Arbeloa was promoted from Real Madrid B to replace Alonso when he was axed at the Bernabeu in January.Rogers is also close friends with Palmer and the pair gelled immediately to lead a dynamic attacking display from Chelsea.Rogers was deployed on the left of Chelsea's three-man attack, with Palmer on the right and Pedro in the central role.Palmer endured a difficult last campaign that saw him left out of England's World Cup squad and he played as if he was determined to make amends.Keeping Rogers and Palmer fit and firing could be the key to Chelsea climbing back into contention for Champions League qualification this season.<h2>'Ice-cold' Rogers</h2>Alonso's reign got off to a stunning start when Levi Colwill's header reached Palmer and he flicked a deft pass into the path of Pedro, who timed his run perfectly and clipped a composed finish past Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno.But Sanchez is under pressure after some shaky performances last term and the error-prone Spaniard was at fault when Fulham drew level in the 23rd minute.King's strike was close enough for Sanchez to save but he allowed the ball to squirm into the net.While Chelsea were often left exposed at the back by Alonso's bold 3-4-3 formation, they attacked with poise and purpose.Romeo Lavia's effort was superbly saved by Leno before Rogers restored the visitors' lead in the 41st minute.It was a brilliant move, started by Palmer's clever turn and pass to debutant defender Maxence Lacroix, whose unexpected burst forward produced a low cross that reached Rogers for a clinical finish from 10 yards.Rogers celebrated with the 'ice-cold' gesture that Palmer popularised after borrowing it from his former Manchester City youth team colleague.Not to be out-done by his mate, Palmer bagged Chelsea's third goal four minutes after half-time.Pedro did well in the build-up, holding the ball long enough for Palmer to burst into the Fulham area and plant a low shot past Leno from a tight angle.Fulham reduced the deficit in the 54th minute thanks to another howler by Sanchez.Timothy Castagne's shot was weakly pushed out by the keeper and Garcia pounced to head in the rebound on his debut after signing from Real Madrid.Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez came off the bench to deafening boos from Fulham fans after his provocative role in Argentina's World Cup semi-final win over England.King nearly levelled for Fulham with a long-range rocket that fizzed just wide before Antonee Robinson's lob over Sanchez drifted narrowly wide.

Rogers put Chelsea back in front on his debut after becoming the most expensive British player in history following his £117 million ($159 million) move from Aston Villa in the close-season.

Xabi Alonso won his first game as Chelsea boss thanks to Morgan Rogers's debut goal and Joao Pedro's strike after just 31 seconds of a pulsating 3-2 victory against Fulham on Monday (Aug 24). Alonso has been hired to revive Chelsea after their dismal 10th place finish in the Premier League last season. The former Real Madrid boss has a point to prove after being sacked by the Spanish club following less than eight months in charge. Alonso's side ensured he delivered a good first impression in a chaotic west London derby at Craven Cottage. Also Read - India to take on Panama in FIFA friendly ahead of Brazil clash Pedro's opener inside the first minute was followed by a blunder from Chelsea keeper Robert Sanchez that gifted an equaliser to Josh King. Rogers put Chelsea back in front on his debut after becoming the most expensive British player in history following his £117 million ($159 million) move from Aston Villa in the close-season. Cole Palmer increased Chelsea's advantage after half-time and the Blues survived a frantic finale after Gonzalo Garcia bagged Fulham's second goal following another Sanchez mistake. On an evening when old friends were reunited on the touchline and on the pitch, Alonso emerged victorious against new Fulham boss Alvaro Arbeloa. The pals played together for seven years with Real Madrid and Liverpool and also starred for Spain. Ironically, Arbeloa was promoted from Real Madrid B to replace Alonso when he was axed at the Bernabeu in January. Rogers is also close friends with Palmer and the pair gelled immediately to lead a dynamic attacking display from Chelsea. Rogers was deployed on the left of Chelsea's three-man attack, with Palmer on the right and Pedro in the central role. Palmer endured a difficult last campaign that saw him left out of England's World Cup squad and he played as if he was determined to make amends. Keeping Rogers and Palmer fit and firing could be the key to Chelsea climbing back into contention for Champions League qualification this season. 'Ice-cold' Rogers Alonso's reign got off to a stunning start when Levi Colwill's header reached Palmer and he flicked a deft pass into the path of Pedro, who timed his run perfectly and clipped a composed finish past Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno. But Sanchez is under pressure after some shaky performances last term and the error-prone Spaniard was at fault when Fulham drew level in the 23rd minute. King's strike was close enough for Sanchez to save but he allowed the ball to squirm into the net. While Chelsea were often left exposed at the back by Alonso's bold 3-4-3 formation, they attacked with poise and purpose. Romeo Lavia's effort was superbly saved by Leno before Rogers restored the visitors' lead in the 41st minute. It was a brilliant move, started by Palmer's clever turn and pass to debutant defender Maxence Lacroix, whose unexpected burst forward produced a low cross that reached Rogers for a clinical finish from 10 yards. Rogers celebrated with the 'ice-cold' gesture that Palmer popularised after borrowing it from his former Manchester City youth team colleague. Not to be out-done by his mate, Palmer bagged Chelsea's third goal four minutes after half-time. Pedro did well in the build-up, holding the ball long enough for Palmer to burst into the Fulham area and plant a low shot past Leno from a tight angle. Fulham reduced the deficit in the 54th minute thanks to another howler by Sanchez. Timothy Castagne's shot was weakly pushed out by the keeper and Garcia pounced to head in the rebound on his debut after signing from Real Madrid. Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez came off the bench to deafening boos from Fulham fans after his provocative role in Argentina's World Cup semi-final win over England. King nearly levelled for Fulham with a long-range rocket that fizzed just wide before Antonee Robinson's lob over Sanchez drifted narrowly wide.

Rogers put Chelsea back in front on his debut after becoming the most expensive British player in history following his £117 million ($159 million) move from Aston Villa in the close-season.

Premier League: Manager Xabi Alonso makes winning start as Chelsea beat Fulham

India’s men’s football team will play Panama in a FIFA international friendly in Sep, ahead of their much-anticipated clash against five-time FIFA World Cup winners Brazil in Kolkata on Oct 3. According to media reports, the match against Panama is likely to be played on Sep 26 or 27 and the venue is yet to be confirmed.&nbsp;Panama took part in the 2026 FIFA World Cup but failed to reach the Round of 32. They lost to Ghana, Croatia and England in Group L and finished at the bottom of the table.&nbsp;&nbsp;The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has reportedly signed a letter of intent with Panama for a friendly in India during the Sep-Oct international window.&nbsp;“There is a high possibility of an international friendly against another World Cup opponent on October 6,” a senior AIFF official said on Sunday.&nbsp;“Brazil is done and Panama have agreed in principle to play in India. Talks are ongoing with three countries who featured at the last World Cup for the third friendly during this window. A good result against any of the World Cup participants can boost Indian football’s morale and improve the rankings significantly,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-haaland-lets-go-of-hair-for-buzzcut-and-opening-game-goal-scoring-1787560813183">Premier League: Haaland lets go of hair for buzzcut and opening game goal scoring</a>&nbsp;Earlier, news agency PTI had reported that India would play Cape Verde in a friendly.Cape Verde reached the Round of 32 on their World Cup debut in 2026 after finishing second in Group H with draws against Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dutch-gp-ferrari-s-hamilton-left-unamused-by-team-startegy-costing-him-possible-podium-finish-1787557165125">Dutch GP: Hamilton questions Ferrari's startegy costing him possible podium</a>&nbsp;In their first-ever World Cup knockout game, Cape Verde lost 2-3 to Lionel Messi’s Argentina despite putting up a strong fight against the three-time champions.&nbsp;India are also scheduled to play two away friendlies against New Zealand in Nov 2026.&nbsp;&nbsp;Like Panama, Brazil and Cape Verde, New Zealand also featured at the 2026 FIFA World Cup but failed to advance to the Round of 32.

Panama’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign ended in the group stage after they lost to Ghana, Croatia and England in Group L and failed to reach the Round of 32.

India’s men’s football team will play Panama in a FIFA international friendly in Sep, ahead of their much-anticipated clash against five-time FIFA World Cup winners Brazil in Kolkata on Oct 3. According to media reports, the match against Panama is likely to be played on Sep 26 or 27 and the venue is yet to be confirmed. Panama took part in the 2026 FIFA World Cup but failed to reach the Round of 32. They lost to Ghana, Croatia and England in Group L and finished at the bottom of the table. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has reportedly signed a letter of intent with Panama for a friendly in India during the Sep-Oct international window. “There is a high possibility of an international friendly against another World Cup opponent on October 6,” a senior AIFF official said on Sunday. “Brazil is done and Panama have agreed in principle to play in India. Talks are ongoing with three countries who featured at the last World Cup for the third friendly during this window. A good result against any of the World Cup participants can boost Indian football’s morale and improve the rankings significantly,” he added. Also Read - Premier League: Haaland lets go of hair for buzzcut and opening game goal scoring Earlier, news agency PTI had reported that India would play Cape Verde in a friendly. Cape Verde reached the Round of 32 on their World Cup debut in 2026 after finishing second in Group H with draws against Spain, Uruguay and Saudi Arabia. Also Read - Dutch GP: Hamilton questions Ferrari's startegy costing him possible podium In their first-ever World Cup knockout game, Cape Verde lost 2-3 to Lionel Messi’s Argentina despite putting up a strong fight against the three-time champions. India are also scheduled to play two away friendlies against New Zealand in Nov 2026. Like Panama, Brazil and Cape Verde, New Zealand also featured at the 2026 FIFA World Cup but failed to advance to the Round of 32.

Panama’s 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign ended in the group stage after they lost to Ghana, Croatia and England in Group L and failed to reach the Round of 32.

India to take on Panama in FIFA friendly ahead of Brazil clash

The Premier League 2026/27 season has started and nothing could have shocked the fans more than Manchester City's prolific striker Erling Haaland's buzz cut hair style. Famous for his flowing blonde hair, Haaland introduced the shock new look ahead of Manchester City's opening fixture against Bournemouth on Sunday (Aug 23). Manchester City came from behind to win the match 2-1, but Haaland failed to score his customary opening game goal for the first time in five seasons at City.<h2>Haaland opening goal scoring in Premier League goes away with his hair?</h2>On Sunday (Aug 23) morning, Haaland took to Instagram to post a <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DcYKkUalmgT">series of photos with his new hair cut</a> along with the caption "short hair don't care." The Norwegian striker later <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reels/DcYIjucPQA9/">added a video</a> as well, showing him before and after the new haircut. Joining in on the conversation, Manchester <a href="https://x.com/premierleague/status/2091606398614360571">City also posted a video</a> of their star player.In the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YEJDmfjy7M">longer video</a> of his Instagram clip, Haaland video called City's former manager Pep Guardiola for his reaction and the manager said: "No way! You are lucky you have hair, I would love to have it!"The new haircut, however, coincided with Haaland failing to score in the opening game of Premier League for the first time in five seasons.He had scored two goals against West Ham in 2022/23, two against Burnley in 2023/24, one against Chelsea in 2024/25, and two against the Wolves in 2025/26.<h2>Premier League standings and points table</h2>The 20-team English Premier League saw nine matches being played between 18 teams on the weeked of August 22-23 with only Fulham vs Chelsea being the remaining fixture for the first week. Below are full standing and points table of Premier League after week 1:&nbsp;

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Team</td><td>Matches</td><td>Win</td><td>Loss</td><td>Draw</td><td>Points</td></tr><tr><td>Brighton</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Brentford</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Arsenal</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Hull</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Everton</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Ipswich Town</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Man City</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Leeds</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>3</td></tr><tr><td>Liverpool</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>1</td></tr><tr><td>Newcastle</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>1</td></tr><tr><td>Chelsea</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Fulham</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Bournemouth</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Sunderland</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Nottingham Forest</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Crystal Palace</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Man United</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Spurs</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Coventry</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr><tr><td>Aston Villa</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

The City came from behind to win the match 2-1, but Haaland failed to score his customary opening game goal for the first time in five seasons at City.

The Premier League 2026/27 season has started and nothing could have shocked the fans more than Manchester City's prolific striker Erling Haaland's buzz cut hair style. Famous for his flowing blonde hair, Haaland introduced the shock new look ahead of Manchester City's opening fixture against Bournemouth on Sunday (Aug 23). Manchester City came from behind to win the match 2-1, but Haaland failed to score his customary opening game goal for the first time in five seasons at City. Haaland opening goal scoring in Premier League goes away with his hair? On Sunday (Aug 23) morning, Haaland took to Instagram to post a series of photos with his new hair cut along with the caption "short hair don't care." The Norwegian striker later added a video as well, showing him before and after the new haircut. Joining in on the conversation, Manchester City also posted a video of their star player. In the longer video of his Instagram clip, Haaland video called City's former manager Pep Guardiola for his reaction and the manager said: "No way! You are lucky you have hair, I would love to have it!" The new haircut, however, coincided with Haaland failing to score in the opening game of Premier League for the first time in five seasons. He had scored two goals against West Ham in 2022/23, two against Burnley in 2023/24, one against Chelsea in 2024/25, and two against the Wolves in 2025/26. Premier League standings and points table The 20-team English Premier League saw nine matches being played between 18 teams on the weeked of August 22-23 with only Fulham vs Chelsea being the remaining fixture for the first week. Below are full standing and points table of Premier League after week 1:

Manchester City came from behind to win the match 2-1, but Haaland failed to score his customary opening game goal for the first time in five seasons at City.

Premier League: Haaland lets go of hair for buzzcut and opening game goal scoring

UEFA chief Aleksander Ceferin has said he is "not interested" in replacing Gianni Infantino, but has warned the under-fire FIFA president must either quit or face a leadership challenge in March. Infantino has come under increasing pressure to step down as the head of world football's global governing body over his now abandoned plan to secure private investment in FIFA tournaments, including the men's and women's World Cups.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/viva-la-france-alex-lanier-makes-history-with-maiden-title-at-bwf-world-championships-1787492134542">Viva la France! Alex Lanier makes history with maiden title at BWF World C'ships</a>Meanwhile UEFA, which oversees the running of European football, has threatened a boycott of FIFA competitions, with several continental and national federations also withdrawing their support for Infantino.But Ceferin ruled himself out of a bid to take Infantino's place as the chief of world football, the 58-year-old Slovenian on Monday telling The Rest is Politics podcast: "I'm not interested because of two reasons. One reason is that I love UEFA and I love working here, and I think that at a certain point... it's time to also enjoy life a bit."And the second point is, my credibility is much, much higher if I'm not interested in the position."Ceferin has been vocal in his criticism since Infantino revealed his controversial plans to seek private investment in a company to run FIFA tournaments.He now believes Infantino's previously impregnable position is under threat, with Ceferin forecasting he will have to stand down or face a leadership challenge if he seeks re-election at the next FIFA Congress in Morocco in March 2027.Infantino, a former UEFA secretary general, had the broad backing of European nations when he succeeded Sepp Blatter as FIFA president in 2016.But Ceferin, who revealed he has not spoken to Infantino since the start of the controversy, insisted the current situation was very different."There are two options," he said. "One option is that he (Infantino) realises that he doesn't have the support, and that's not only a political support of the ones who vote, but the political support of football community, the political support of fans, the political support of the players, former players, coaches."And the second option that he goes to the elections in March, but in that case, I think he will have a candidate against him. I don't know yet who."CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani and AFC boss Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al-Khalifa are considered two of the most likely challengers for Infantino's position.

UEFA, which oversees the running of European football, has threatened a boycott of FIFA competitions, with several continental and national federations also withdrawing their support for Infantino.

UEFA chief Aleksander Ceferin has said he is "not interested" in replacing Gianni Infantino, but has warned the under-fire FIFA president must either quit or face a leadership challenge in March. Infantino has come under increasing pressure to step down as the head of world football's global governing body over his now abandoned plan to secure private investment in FIFA tournaments, including the men's and women's World Cups. Also Read - Viva la France! Alex Lanier makes history with maiden title at BWF World C'ships Meanwhile UEFA, which oversees the running of European football, has threatened a boycott of FIFA competitions, with several continental and national federations also withdrawing their support for Infantino. But Ceferin ruled himself out of a bid to take Infantino's place as the chief of world football, the 58-year-old Slovenian on Monday telling The Rest is Politics podcast: "I'm not interested because of two reasons. One reason is that I love UEFA and I love working here, and I think that at a certain point... it's time to also enjoy life a bit. "And the second point is, my credibility is much, much higher if I'm not interested in the position." Ceferin has been vocal in his criticism since Infantino revealed his controversial plans to seek private investment in a company to run FIFA tournaments. He now believes Infantino's previously impregnable position is under threat, with Ceferin forecasting he will have to stand down or face a leadership challenge if he seeks re-election at the next FIFA Congress in Morocco in March 2027. Infantino, a former UEFA secretary general, had the broad backing of European nations when he succeeded Sepp Blatter as FIFA president in 2016. But Ceferin, who revealed he has not spoken to Infantino since the start of the controversy, insisted the current situation was very different. "There are two options," he said. "One option is that he (Infantino) realises that he doesn't have the support, and that's not only a political support of the ones who vote, but the political support of football community, the political support of fans, the political support of the players, former players, coaches. "And the second option that he goes to the elections in March, but in that case, I think he will have a candidate against him. I don't know yet who." CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani and AFC boss Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al-Khalifa are considered two of the most likely challengers for Infantino's position.

UEFA, which oversees the running of European football, has threatened a boycott of FIFA competitions, with several continental and national federations also withdrawing their support for Infantino.

UEFA chief Aleksander Ceferin 'not interested' in replacing FIFA chief Gianni Infantino

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.

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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

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