Liverpool will retire Diogo Jota's No. 20 jersey after the 28-year-old forward died in a car cras...

Liverpool will retire Diogo Jota's No. 20 jersey after the 28-year-old forward died in a car crash July 3.The club said the decision was made in consultation with his wife, Rute Cardoso, who married Jota 11 days before the tragic accident, and his family. The shirt number will be retired across all levels of the club, including the women's team and throughout the academy."I believe this is the first time in Liverpool Football Club's history that such an honor has been bestowed upon an individual. Therefore, we can say this is a unique tribute to a uniquely wonderful person," <a href="https://www.liverpoolfc.com/news/diogo-jota-forever-our-number-20">said</a> Michael Edwards, chief executive of football for Liverpool's ownership company, Fenway Sports Group.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"By retiring this squad number, we are making it eternal - and therefore never to be forgotten."Liverpool are <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3310511" href="https://thescore.com/news/3310511">set to honor</a> Jota and his brother Andre Silva, who also died in the car crash in northern Spain, during their friendly at Preston North End on Sunday. The tributes include a special rendition of the club anthem "You'll Never Walk Alone" and Preston players laying a wreath in front of the visiting supporters.Cardoso visited Anfield with members of the brothers' family Friday. She carried flowers and viewed the many tributes to her husband outside Liverpool's stadium."Diogo joined us in 2020, he won us (English league title) No. 20, and he wore - with honour, distinction and affection - the No. 20," Edwards added."As far as Liverpool Football Club is concerned, he will be forever our No. 20."

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - MAY 25: (THE SUN OUT. THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Diogo Jota of Liverpool poses for a photograph with the Premier League trophy, as Liverpool are crowned the Champions of the Premier League, following the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Crystal Palace FC at Anfield on May 25, 2025 in Liverpool, England.

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Liverpool retire Jota's jersey: 'Forever our No. 20'

Tottenham Hotspur have stepped up their attempt to turn a team that finished 17th in the Premier ...

Tottenham Hotspur have stepped up their attempt to turn a team that finished 17th in the Premier League table into a Champions League-ready outfit.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/166288" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/166288">Mohammed Kudus</a> joined Spurs from London rivals West Ham United on Thursday in a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3310278" href="https://thescore.com/news/3310278">reported</a> £55-million deal. The Ghanaian international signed a long-term contract with Tottenham and will wear the No. 20 shirt.The unpredictable 24-year-old attacker's arrival coincides with widespread reports that Nottingham Forest talisman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/91051" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/91051">Morgan Gibbs-White</a> is also joining Thomas Frank's project after Spurs triggered the midfielder's £60-million release clause. Gibbs-White was previously linked with Pep Guardiola's Manchester City.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Frank appears to have targeted more incisiveness in a squad that already boasted plenty of forward-thinking and creative players in midfield and attack. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/184462" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/184462">Mathys Tel</a>'s loan move from Bayern Munich was already made permanent this summer and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///intfr/players/93055" href="https://thescore.com/intfr/players/93055">Manor Solomon</a> returned from a successful loan spell with Championship winners Leeds United, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/100082" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/100082">Dejan Kulusevski</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/34985" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/34985">Dominic Solanke</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/161384" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/161384">Brennan Johnson</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/12696" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/12696">Son Heung-min</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/28286" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/28286">James Maddison</a> were among the nine players who played the most Premier League minutes for Spurs over the 2024-25 campaign.Frank's predecessor, Ange Postecoglou, was dismissed at the end of last season. The Aussie coach secured a backdoor route into the Champions League courtesy of beating Manchester United in the Europa League final, but Johnson's match-winning goal wasn't enough to ease chairman Daniel Levy's frustration with a lowly Premier League standing and disappointing domestic cup campaigns.The Europa League triumph marked Spurs' first trophy since their 2008 League Cup success.

BRIGHTON, ENGLAND - APRIL 26: Mohammed Kudus of West Ham United celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion FC and West Ham United FC at Amex Stadium on April 26, 2025 in Brighton, England.

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Tottenham sign Kudus from West Ham for reported £55M fee

Canadian forward Olivia Smith is reportedly set to become the most expensive player in women's so...

Canadian forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wwcup/players/199855" href="https://thescore.com/wwcup/players/199855">Olivia Smith</a> is reportedly set to become the most expensive player in women's soccer history with a move to Champions League winners Arsenal.Liverpool accepted an offer from their Women's Super League rivals that exceeds the current record transfer fee of $1.1 million, sources told <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/football/2025/jul/10/olivia-smith-world-record-transfer-1m-signing-arsenal-liverpool">The Guardian's Tom Garry</a>. That record was set in January when Chelsea bought American defender <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///olymsw/players/199752" href="https://thescore.com/olymsw/players/199752">Naomi Girma</a> from the NWSL's San Diego Wave.Smith can fulfill various attacking roles and scored seven of Liverpool's 22 goals during the 2024-25 Women's Super League campaign. The 20-year-old was named the Players' Player of the Year and the Players' Young Player of the Year by her teammates after her debut season with the club.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Smith became the youngest player ever to be called up to the Canadian women's team at the age of 15. She has since earned 18 caps, scoring three goals and assisting three times despite starting just seven matches.Liverpool rejected numerous bids for Smith before finally succumbing to Arsenal's record-breaking proposal, Garry reports. The accepted offer is understood to break the £1-million barrier and is therefore at least five times more than the £200,000 that Liverpool paid Sporting CP to sign Smith in July 2024.The current exchange rate values £1 million at around $1.35 million."She's phenomenal. She gives us so much on the ball, but the work-rate off the ball is just as good," Liverpool's interim head coach Amber Whiteley <a href="https://www.liverpoolfc.com/news/we-put-absolutely-everything-amber-whiteley-liverpool-3-1-man-utd">said</a> after Smith scored twice - including the women's team's first goal at Anfield - in a 3-1 win over Manchester United in March.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - MARCH 14: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Olivia Smith (11) of Liverpool celebrates scoring Liverpool's third goal during the WSL game at Anfield on March 14, 2025 in Liverpool, England.

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Report: Canada's Olivia Smith set for record-breaking transfer to Arsenal

Desire Doue added another huge goal to his fledgling career Saturday as Paris Saint-Germain beat ...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/187930" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/187930">Desire Doue</a> added another huge goal to his fledgling career Saturday as Paris Saint-Germain beat Bayern Munich 2-0 in a hard-fought Club World Cup quarterfinal.Doue struck a near-post finish from the edge of the area in the 78th minute. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///natleaguefnl/players/61590" href="https://thescore.com/natleaguefnl/players/61590">Ousmane Dembele</a> strengthened his case to win the Ballon d'Or when he smashed in PSG's second tally in the 96th minute.Doue, who is just 20, scored the goal that secured the 2024-25 Ligue 1 title. He also scored twice and assisted once in his side's 5-0 rout of Inter Milan in the Champions League final in May.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Dembele scored 29 times and provided 12 assists across Ligue 1 and Champions League play in the 2024-25 campaign.PSG will face Real Madrid in the final four.Paris Saint-Germain finished the game with nine men following red cards for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/187787" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/187787">Willian Pacho</a> (in the 82nd minute) and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///natleaguefnl/players/54561" href="https://thescore.com/natleaguefnl/players/54561">Lucas Hernandez</a> (92nd minute). Pacho was punished for a high tackle on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///natleaguefnl/players/22583" href="https://thescore.com/natleaguefnl/players/22583">Leon Goretzka</a> and Hernandez was sent off shortly after joining the game for elbowing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/25855" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/25855">Raphael Guerreiro</a>."It was a fight today. As a player, it is always difficult to go out of a game. We are really sad for Pacho and Lucas," Doue said to DAZN post-match, according to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/live/cvg66n3dm14t?post=asset%3Af15a7bdb-f7f3-4250-b8bb-3be51cf2b78f#post">BBC Sport</a>. "But it is part of the game and we need to be good in the next game to win it."Bayern Munich were denied a penalty in the closing moments when the referee overturned his decision after consulting the pitchside monitor. The Bavarians also had two goals ruled out after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/85768" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/85768">Dayot Upamecano</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/3804" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/3804">Harry Kane</a> scored from offside positions.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/43614" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/43614">Gianluigi Donnarumma</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/3458" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/3458">Manuel Neuer</a> both stepped up for their sides with some important saves over the course of the game, but Dembele's late strike relieved huge pressure on PSG after Bayern threw everything forward in search of an equalizer. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/2232" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/2232">Thomas Muller</a> was brought on in the 80th minute but couldn't provide a decisive moment before the final whistle ended his legendary 25-year stay with Bayern Munich.The match in Atlanta was soured by what <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3308342" href="https://thescore.com/news/3308342">appeared to be a serious injury</a> for young Bayern playmaker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/166065" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/166065">Jamal Musiala</a>.

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JULY 05: Desire Doue #14 of Paris Saint-Germain celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 quarter-final match between Paris Saint-Germain and FC Bayern München at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on July 05, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia.

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Doue and Dembele fire 9-man PSG past Bayern, into Club World Cup semis

Chelsea took a gargantuan loss on Kepa Arrizabalaga after the goalkeeper joined London rivals Ars...

Chelsea took a gargantuan loss on <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/57697" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/57697">Kepa Arrizabalaga</a> after the goalkeeper joined London rivals Arsenal on Tuesday.The deal was worth just £5 million after Arsenal triggered the goalkeeper's modest release clause, according to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cp90x3y4037o">BBC Sport's Nizaar Kinsella</a>.Kepa remains the world's most expensive 'keeper after he joined Chelsea from Athletic Bilbao for £72 million in 2018. The 30-year-old spent last season on loan at Bournemouth.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The Spaniard will compete with compatriot <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///natleaguefnl/players/24606" href="https://thescore.com/natleaguefnl/players/24606">David Raya</a> to be Arsenal's starting goalkeeper."I think we are so close to winning and, hopefully, altogether, we can achieve it," Kepa said in an Arsenal statement.Kepa won the Champions League, Europa League, UEFA Super Cup, and Club World Cup while making 163 appearances for Chelsea. Despite his successes, his spell in west London was blighted by errors and rampant criticism.His lowest ebb with the Blues was perhaps during his debut campaign when he appeared to refuse his substitution near the end of extra time of the 2019 League Cup final. He then failed to lead Chelsea to victory over Manchester City in the shootout as backup 'keeper Willy Caballero, who had a strong track record of saving penalties, watched on from the bench.Kepa finished as a runner-up in three FA Cup finals and two League Cup finals with Chelsea.Kepa was on loan at Real Madrid the season before his Bournemouth stint. He played 20 times across all competitions for Los Blancos and won the Champions League, La Liga, and the Supercopa de Espana.He's earned 13 caps for Spain."We are really happy to have Kepa joining us," said Mikel Arteta. "He brings a wealth of experience, which his teammates will benefit from, and he has a real hunger to win."

LONDON, ENGLAND - JUly 01: Arsenal unveil new signing Kepa Arrizabalaga at Emirates Stadium on July 01, 2025 in London, England.

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Kepa, most expensive 'keeper ever, joins Arsenal for reported £5M

Paul Pogba joined AS Monaco on a two-year contract Saturday as he tries to reinvigorate his caree...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/13802" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/13802">Paul Pogba</a> joined AS Monaco on a two-year contract Saturday as he tries to reinvigorate his career following an 18-month doping ban.The 2018 World Cup winner hasn't played since September 2023 because he failed a random drug test. Juventus terminated his contract in November 2024. He was eligible to return to the pitch in March.Pogba was visibly emotional while signing his Monaco contract.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🥹❤️ <a href="https://t.co/rYySxcFEKW">pic.twitter.com/rYySxcFEKW</a>— AS Monaco EN 🇲🇨 (@AS_Monaco_EN) <a href="https://twitter.com/AS_Monaco_EN/status/1939020532399382568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Pogba had tested positive for dehydroepiandrosterone, a substance that can produce testosterone. His representatives said the traces in his system had come from a food supplement a U.S. doctor prescribed to him. The substance <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3299751" href="https://thescore.com/news/3299751">normally</a> only affects performance for women."This has been a hugely distressing period in my life because everything I have worked so hard for has been put on hold," Pogba said in a statement last October when his doping ban was reduced from four years to 18 months."Thank you for your love and support. I just cannot wait to get back on the pitch."Pogba, 32, is set for his first appearance in Ligue 1 after becoming one of the more experienced members of Adi Hutter's Monaco squad. His new teammates include last season's breakout star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fran/players/187349" href="https://thescore.com/fran/players/187349">Mika Biereth</a>, former Liverpool playmaker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fran/players/40124" href="https://thescore.com/fran/players/40124">Takumi Minamino</a>, and American striker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fran/players/162980" href="https://thescore.com/fran/players/162980">Folarin Balogun</a>.Pogba's honors<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Competition</th>
<th>Wins</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Europa League</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>English League Cup</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Serie A</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Coppa Italia</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Supercoppa Italia</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UEFA Nations League</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>World Cup</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>The midfielder started his journey in football in France with Le Havre, although he moved to Manchester United before he made a professional appearance. United sold him to Juventus for around £1.5 million in 2012, but he was back with the Red Devils four years later after agreeing to an £89-million (€105 million) switch, which was a world-record transfer at the time. He returned to Juventus in 2022 after a spell with United that was defined by infamous falling-outs with coaches and inconsistent form.Pogba earned his last France cap as a substitute in a 5-0 friendly win over South Africa in March 2022.

CANNES, FRANCE - MAY 19: Paul Pogba attends the "Highest 2 Lowest" red carpet at the 78th annual Cannes Film Festival at Palais des Festivals on May 19, 2025 in Cannes, France.

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Pogba joins Monaco after almost 2 full seasons on sidelines

The group stage at the revamped Club World Cup is in the books. Below, we're looking back on the ...

The group stage at the revamped Club World Cup is in the books. Below, we're looking back on the biggest surprises from the tournament's opening two weeks in the United States.<h3>Brazilians step up to European challenge</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791968/cropped_GettyImages-2220208792.jpg?ts=1750910047" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791968/w220xh124_GettyImages-2220208792.jpg?ts=1750910047 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791968/w320xh180_GettyImages-2220208792.jpg?ts=1750910047 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791968/w640xh360_GettyImages-2220208792.jpg?ts=1750910047 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791968/w768xh432_GettyImages-2220208792.jpg?ts=1750910047 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791968/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2220208792.jpg?ts=1750910047 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> FRANCK FIFE / AFP / Getty</figcaption></figure>Palmeiras boss Abel Ferreira <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3304379" href="https://thescore.com/news/3304379">said</a> before the tournament that the gap between his team and European sides was "minimal." That seems true of his team, and also for fellow Brazilian outfits Botafogo, Flamengo, and Fluminense.Botafogo's 1-0 loss to Atletico Madrid was the only defeat for a Brazilian team during the group stage. Botafogo and Fluminense progressed with second-placed finishes, while Flamengo and Palmeiras topped their quartets. Atleti, Chelsea, and FC Porto finished below their Brazilian group rivals. The four Brazilian squads, along with their vibrant fans, have arguably been the most entertaining part of this tournament thus far.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Botafogo's 1-0 upset of Champions League holders PSG was the standout result of the group stage, and it produced the most memorable soundbite. "The cemetery of football is full of favorites," Botafogo coach Renato Paiva <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3304379" href="https://thescore.com/news/3304379">said</a>, rather poetically, after the memorable victory.Group stage: Brazil vs. Europe<ul>
<li>Palmeiras 0-0 Porto</li>
<li>Fluminense 0-0 Borussia Dortmund</li>
<li>Paris Saint-Germain 0-1 Botafogo</li>
<li>Flamengo 3-1 Chelsea</li>
<li>Atletico Madrid 1-0 Botafogo</li>
</ul>The excuse of European sides faltering against supposedly lesser opponents due to their tougher workload doesn't totally ring true.The squads of Brazilian clubs have navigated more matches than their counterparts in Europe over the past 12 months through their commitments in the league, state competitions, and continent-wide tournaments. Cash-rich European clubs also enjoy greater roster depth over Brazilian teams, allowing more opportunities to rotate squads over the course of a season.The only advantage that Brazilian teams may have is that they're better acclimated to the temperature and humidity. A heatwave in the United States has thrust the Club World Cup into Carnival conditions. The Brazilian sides often appear comfortable while the European-based players seem to be wading, not running, through the thick, damp air.It's a shame resilient duo Botafogo and Palmeiras will meet in the round of 16, therefore denying one of those teams another meeting with a European giant. But at least one will be assured of a quarterfinal against Benfica or Chelsea.Brazil's last Club World Cup win came in 2012 when Corinthians overcame Chelsea in the final. Winning it will be tougher now that the tournament is much bigger and full of wealthy clubs, but it's already been a historic summer for Brazilian club football - and one that's made even sweeter by the failures of Boca Juniors and River Plate, the storied teams from rival nation Argentina.<h3>More misery for Atleti</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/792111/cropped_GettyImages-2221754889.jpg?ts=1751028536" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/792111/w220xh124_GettyImages-2221754889.jpg?ts=1751028536 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/792111/w320xh180_GettyImages-2221754889.jpg?ts=1751028536 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/792111/w640xh360_GettyImages-2221754889.jpg?ts=1751028536 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/792111/w768xh432_GettyImages-2221754889.jpg?ts=1751028536 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/792111/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2221754889.jpg?ts=1751028536 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Alex Pantling - FIFA / FIFA / Getty</figcaption></figure>Atletico Madrid fans have endured a rotten few months.A 2024-25 season that promised so much rapidly disintegrated. The laws now stipulate an accidental double-touch penalty that goes in can be retaken, but that change in early June was prompted by Julian Alvarez's slip and finish being ruled out during Atleti's shootout with Real Madrid, leading to a Champions League last-16 elimination. That heartbreak coincided with a strong La Liga title push sputtering into a third-placed finish. Los Colchoneros also suffered heartbreak to Barcelona in the Copa del Rey semifinals.Not only did the Club World Cup offer a chance to ease that pain, it was an opportunity to play and win a tournament that they'll otherwise find it hard to enter again. Atletico Madrid qualified for the Club World Cup based on UEFA's four-year ranking; it's hard to imagine that La Liga champions Barcelona won't be above them the next time the competition rolls around in 2029.The Club World Cup also presented a chance to edge closer toward the true European elite by earning some of the huge prize money on offer.Atletico failed in their mission for redemption and growth. Getting thumped by Paris Saint-Germain isn't wholly surprising and Atleti beat the Seattle Sounders, but only scoring once against Botafogo led to the Spaniards' ignominious exit as the Brazilians progressed.<h3>Inter Miami silence doubters</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791205/cropped_GettyImages-2220230381.jpg?ts=1750369275" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791205/w220xh124_GettyImages-2220230381.jpg?ts=1750369275 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791205/w320xh180_GettyImages-2220230381.jpg?ts=1750369275 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791205/w640xh360_GettyImages-2220230381.jpg?ts=1750369275 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791205/w768xh432_GettyImages-2220230381.jpg?ts=1750369275 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791205/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2220230381.jpg?ts=1750369275 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Inter Miami were in a rut going into the Club World Cup.Lionel Messi's team, a tournament invitee for all intents and purposes, had just three wins in 10 matches heading into the competition. Miami looked painfully slow and defensively frail, conceding 26 goals in those games dating back to late April. There were genuine concerns, not unfounded, that Javier Mascherano's team would get humbled on home soil in Group A.They admitted as much themselves."It's clear that we are not at the level to compete at the Club World Cup, but we will try to compete in our group," midfielder Sergio Busquets <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45024595/miami-not-level-compete-club-world-cup-busquets">said</a> after Miami was eliminated from the CONCACAF Champions Cup in emphatic fashion by the Vancouver Whitecaps in late April.Those doubts certainly seemed justified in the first half of the tournament opening against Egyptian giants Al Ahly. If not for the heroics of goalkeeper Oscar Ustari, including a penalty save, Mascherano's men would've been in trouble right from the off. But Inter Miami steadied the ship after that. They were unfortunate not to score at least once themselves in the second half against Al Ahly, and then, powered by a majestic Messi free-kick, beat FC Porto in their second match. They earned a 2-2 draw against Palmeiras in their Group A finale, becoming the lone MLS team in the tournament to reach the knockout rounds.The once defeatist outlook has been replaced by hope going into the last 16, where Miami will look to pull off an all-time upset against Paris Saint-Germain, the Champions League holders and presumptive best team in the world."If there is something this sport has proven (it's) that anything can happen in any match," Mascherano <a href="https://apnews.com/article/club-world-cup-inter-miami-psg-mesi-suarez-enrique-603bffa4168b0d03eb8f96e65ead7229">said</a> of the upcoming contest, which will see Messi take on his former club for the first time since leaving in 2023. "And who's to say that Sunday will (not) be our day. Sometimes, things happen."

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3 biggest surprises from Club World Cup group stage

Cristiano Ronaldo signed a contract extension with Al-Nassr on Thursday that ties him to the Saud...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///natleaguefnl/players/1310" href="https://thescore.com/natleaguefnl/players/1310">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> signed a contract extension with Al-Nassr on Thursday that ties him to the Saudi club for another two years.His latest deal runs through his expected participation at next summer's World Cup with Portugal and the 2026-27 Saudi Pro League campaign. The contract will expire when Ronaldo is 42 years old."Al-Nassr forever," Ronaldo <a href="https://x.com/AlNassrFC/status/1938221514408542498?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1938221514408542498%7Ctwgr%5Eeb05f10417d6b07506986148f526aa588a79a134%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fcmsadmin.thescore.com%2Fadmin%2Fnewsroom%2F%2Farticles%2F3241194">said</a> in the club's video to announce his extended terms.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Ronaldo could still decide to retire after the 2026 World Cup in North America, according to last week's report in Saudi publication <a href="https://arriyadiyah.com/868764/%D8%A5%D8%AC%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%A1%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%AA%D9%81%D8%B5%D9%84-%D8%B1%D9%88%D9%86%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AF%D9%88-%D8%B9%D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%86%D8%B5%D8%B1">Arriyadiyah</a>."A new chapter begins. Same passion, same dream. Let's make history together," Ronaldo <a href="https://x.com/Cristiano/status/1938227636976709678">posted</a> on X.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GuX1yNkXYAADkSH?format=jpg&amp;name=900x900" srcset="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GuX1yNkXYAADkSH?format=jpg&amp;name=900x900 220w, https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GuX1yNkXYAADkSH?format=jpg&amp;name=900x900 320w, https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GuX1yNkXYAADkSH?format=jpg&amp;name=900x900 640w, https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GuX1yNkXYAADkSH?format=jpg&amp;name=900x900 768w, https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GuX1yNkXYAADkSH?format=jpg&amp;name=900x900 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> </figcaption></figure>(Courtesy: <a href="https://x.com/Cristiano/status/1938227636976709678">@Cristiano</a>)The five-time Ballon d'Or winner joined Al-Nassr near the end of 2022, shortly after his release from Manchester United. He signed a contract worth around €200 million per year to help Saudi Arabia's bid to become a force in world soccer.He's since scored 74 goals and assisted 16 times in 77 Saudi Pro League appearances for Al-Nassr, but domestic success has eluded the highly decorated attacker. Al-Ittihad (twice) and Al-Hilal have won the Pro League and the same two teams have won the King's Cup since his arrival, but he did lift the Arab Club Champions Cup in August 2023.Ronaldo finished as the Saudi Pro League's top scorer in each of the past two seasons, and racked up 14 tallies in 16 outings after joining Al-Nassr midway through the 2022-23 campaign.His teammates in the lavishly assembled Al-Nassr squad include <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///intfr/players/20486" href="https://thescore.com/intfr/players/20486">Sadio Mane</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///worldcup/players/49850" href="https://thescore.com/worldcup/players/49850">Aymeric Laporte</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///natleagued/players/49365" href="https://thescore.com/natleagued/players/49365">Marcelo Brozovic</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///wcqcon/players/187782" href="https://thescore.com/wcqcon/players/187782">Jhon Duran</a>.Ronaldo is the all-time leading scorer in men's international soccer with 138 goals over 221 appearances for Portugal. The former Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Juventus forward's other records include the most Champions League goals (140) and appearances (183) ever. He counts five Champions League winners' medals and seven domestic titles among his many club honors, and he won Euro 2016 with Portugal.

Nassr's Portuguese forward #7 Cristiano Ronaldo celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the Saudi Pro League football match between Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr at the Kingdom Arena stadium in Riyadh on April 4, 2025.

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Ronaldo signs 2-year contract in Saudi Arabia: 'Al-Nassr forever'

The first European heavyweight has fallen at the Club World Cup.  Atletico Madrid's campaign ende...

The first European heavyweight has fallen at the Club World Cup.Atletico Madrid's campaign ended in the group stage Monday despite beating Brazilian and South American champions Botafogo with a late <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///liga/players/10181" href="https://thescore.com/liga/players/10181">Antoine Griezmann</a> goal at the Rose Bowl.Paris Saint-Germain beat Major League Soccer's Seattle Sounders 2-0 in a concurrent Group B fixture, meaning the Champions League holders finished first in the quartet and reached the last 16. Botafogo took second place and will join PSG - the team they stunned with a 1-0 victory last Thursday - in the knockout rounds.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Group B<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>#</th>
<th>Team</th>
<th>GD</th>
<th>Points</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Paris Saint-Germain</td>
<td>+5</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Botafogo</td>
<td>+1</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Atletico Madrid</td>
<td>-1</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Seattle Sounders</td>
<td>-5</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>Atletico Madrid expressed displeasure at some of the officiating during Monday's match, but with 23 shots and a squad that's worth over three times more than Botafogo's roster, according to <a href="https://www.transfermarkt.us/fifa-club-world-cup/teilnehmer/pokalwettbewerb/KLUB">Transfermarkt</a>, it was a game that Diego Simeone's side should've won comfortably.Atleti were smashed 4-0 by PSG in their group opener before they won 3-1 against Seattle in their second outing."We're frustrated that we didn't qualify - we had six points," Atletico coach Simeone said. "At the end of the day we were punished because it wasn't enough."I'm proud of the work of my guys. We played our hearts out; we won two games but unfortunately we are not going through."

PASADENA, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 23: Julian Alvarez #19 of Atletico De Madrid looks on during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group B match between Club Atletico de Madrid and Botafogo FR at Rose Bowl Stadium on June 23, 2025 in Pasadena, California.

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Atletico eliminated from Club World Cup as PSG, Botafogo advance

Liverpool agreed to sign Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen on Friday in a transfer reportedly w...

Liverpool <a href="https://www.liverpoolfc.com/news/liverpool-agree-signing-florian-wirtz-bayer-leverkusen">agreed</a> to sign <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///natleaguefnl/players/166018" href="https://thescore.com/natleaguefnl/players/166018">Florian Wirtz</a> from Bayer Leverkusen on Friday in a transfer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3299647" href="https://thescore.com/news/3299647">reportedly</a> worth over €136 million (£100 million) before add-ons.That fee already makes the 22-year-old Liverpool's club-record signing, while he leapfrogs <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/86595" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/86595">Kai Havertz</a> as the most expensive German of all time and overtakes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///liga/players/161381" href="https://thescore.com/liga/players/161381">Jude Bellingham</a> as the priciest Bundesliga sale.The potential fee after bonuses is €150 million (£116 million). Should the conditions in his contract be met, he will comfortably surpass Chelsea's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/185698" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/185698">Enzo Fernandez</a> (£107 million with no add-ons) as the biggest transfer in British football history, according to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cqj7kjp52kyo">BBC Sport's Emlyn Begley</a>. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/167739" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/167739">Moises Caicedo</a>, Fernandez's teammate at Stamford Bridge, could reportedly cost up to £115 million after add-ons.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///olymsm/players/14263" href="https://thescore.com/olymsm/players/14263">Neymar</a> remains the world's most expensive player from his €222-million transfer to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017. If his deal is ultimately worth €150 million, it would make Wirtz the third-most expensive player ever behind only Neymar and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///natleaguefnl/players/66967" href="https://thescore.com/natleaguefnl/players/66967">Kylian Mbappe</a>.Wirtz signed a long-term contract on Merseyside."I'm really excited to have a new adventure in front of me," Wirtz said. "This was also a big point of my thoughts: That I want to have something completely new, to go out of the Bundesliga and to join the Premier League."Wirtz has long been considered one of the best young players on the planet. He started to realize his potential when he recovered from an ACL injury early in 2023 and became the talisman of Xabi Alonso's Bayer Leverkusen squad. Die Werkself sensationally ended Bayern Munich's 11-year Bundesliga reign while winning their first title with an unbeaten 2023-24 domestic campaign. Leverkusen also beat Kaiserslautern in the DFB-Pokal final. The only defeat of their season came in the Europa League final against Atalanta.Over the course of that historic campaign, Wirtz scored 17 goals and provided 18 assists while enthralling onlookers with his relentless energy, evasive dribbling, and overall incredible technical ability.Leverkusen won the DFL-Supercup at the start of the following term, but they couldn't maintain the same frenetic pace in the league or cup competitions. But Wirtz was still influential for Alonso's side with 10 goals and 12 assists in the Bundesliga and another six goals and two assists across DFB-Pokal and Champions League play.His arrival at Liverpool should ease some of the attacking burden on 32-year-old <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/17673" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/17673">Mohamed Salah</a>, who sensationally fired 29 goals and assisted 18 times as the Reds won the 2024-25 Premier League title. Arne Slot's attack should look refreshed next season with Wirtz's inclusion, while <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/162705" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/162705">Darwin Nunez</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/101948" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/101948">Luis Diaz</a> are repeatedly linked with moves away."For a striker, it's a dream to have this player behind you," Leverkusen striker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/32111" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/32111">Patrik Schick</a> <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3166862" href="https://thescore.com/news/3166862">said</a> of Wirtz last December.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engch/players/1615" href="https://thescore.com/engch/players/1615">Jeremie Frimpong</a>, who also joined from Leverkusen, and young Hungarian goalkeeper Armin Pecsi are the other incoming deals struck by Liverpool this summer. The club is also strongly linked with a move for Bournemouth left-back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///intfr/players/183614" href="https://thescore.com/intfr/players/183614">Milos Kerkez</a>.

KIRKBY, ENGLAND - JUNE 20: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Florian Wirtz is unveiled as a Liverpool player after his signing at AXA Training Centre on June 20, 2025 in Kirkby, England.

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Liverpool smash multiple transfer records to sign Wirtz for reported €150M

The Premier League transfer window is open for a second time this summer, giving clubs until Sept...

The Premier League transfer window is open for a second time this summer, giving clubs until Sept. 1 to revamp their squads. Seven of the league's best teams have massive holes to fill and the money to do it. Below, theScore offers these heavyweight outfits potential solutions to their biggest problems.<h3>Arsenal</h3>Biggest need(s): Striker Target(s): Benjamin Sesko, Viktor GyokeresIn case you haven't heard, Arsenal need a striker. Their failure to sign one during the last couple of transfer windows has widely been criticized and blamed for the club's second-place finish in the Premier League last season.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Would Arsenal have been able to catch up to Liverpool had they pulled the trigger on a deal for a top-class striker? Doubtful, but we'll never know. In hindsight, it might've helped cut into Liverpool's lead, considering that Arsenal were left without a true striker when they lost Kai Havertz to a season-ending injury right after the January window closed. But don't expect the north London club to stand idle this summer when the opportunity to strengthen its attack arises.Arsenal have already been linked with a host of elite forwards. But now it looks as though they've narrowed their search down to RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko or Sporting CP's Viktor Gyokeres. Gyokeres is fresh off another strong season in Portugal, while Sesko offers a younger option with tons of potential.<h3>Chelsea</h3>Biggest need(s): Forward, center-back, goalkeeper Target(s): Jamie Gittens, Alejandro Garnacho, Marc Guehi, James Trafford<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790711/cropped_GettyImages-2188253982.jpg?ts=1750092422" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790711/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188253982.jpg?ts=1750092422 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790711/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188253982.jpg?ts=1750092422 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790711/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188253982.jpg?ts=1750092422 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790711/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188253982.jpg?ts=1750092422 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/790711/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188253982.jpg?ts=1750092422 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> picture alliance / picture alliance / Getty</figcaption></figure>Chelsea ended the season on an encouraging note by winning the Conference League after booking their return to the Champions League. But there's still plenty of work to be done to ensure that coach Enzo Maresca's squad can compete in both the Premier League and Europe's most revered club tournament. They've won both competitions in the last decade, but now it's about staying competitive in them.The capture of striker Liam Delap is likely to be followed by the arrival of another attacking reinforcement. Borussia Dortmund's Jamie Gittens has been heavily linked with a move to west London, with reports suggesting the winger could cost €50 million. Manchester United outcast Alejandro Garnacho may be an alternative if Gittens doesn't sign.Chelsea will also hope to bring Marc Guehi back to Stamford Bridge after multiple failed attempts. Despite Maresca's apparent faith in unconvincing netminder Robert Sanchez, a new face between the sticks is another possibility; Chelsea tried, and failed, to land Mike Maignan from AC Milan earlier this month. Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford is considered a target despite Newcastle's rumored interest in him.<h3>Liverpool</h3>Biggest need(s): Left-back, winger, forward Target(s): Milos Kerkez, Bradley Barcola, Alexander Isak, Hugo EkitikeLiverpool moved quickly to address their biggest need, signing right-back Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen shortly after Trent Alexander-Arnold left his hometown club for Real Madrid. Their reported club-record deal for Florian Wirtz is also near completion. So the Reds are already better than they were when they took the Premier League by surprise and won their record-tying 20th English top-flight title.Should everything proceed as expected, Liverpool will unveil Milos Kerkez as Andy Robertson's heir apparent for a reported £45 million. All they'll really need to enter the 2025-26 season as a multi-competition juggernaut is a greater goalscorer than Darwin Nunez and a left-winger to replace Luis Diaz. Both South Americans could yet leave Anfield this summer. Newcastle United's Alexander Isak is Liverpool's No. 1 choice up front, with Eintracht Frankfurt's Hugo Ekitike as a backup and PSG's Bradley Barcola as a potential luxury signing. Isak, of course, finished second to Mohamed Salah in Premier League scoring with 23 goals in 34 appearances.<h3>Manchester City</h3>Biggest need(s): Goalkeeper, right-back Target(s): Gianluigi Donnarumma, Diogo Costa, Tino Livramento<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784639/cropped_GettyImages-2212650693.jpg?ts=1746705719" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784639/w220xh124_GettyImages-2212650693.jpg?ts=1746705719 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784639/w320xh180_GettyImages-2212650693.jpg?ts=1746705719 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784639/w640xh360_GettyImages-2212650693.jpg?ts=1746705719 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784639/w768xh432_GettyImages-2212650693.jpg?ts=1746705719 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784639/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2212650693.jpg?ts=1746705719 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Justin Setterfield / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Pep Guardiola has been ruthless following Manchester City's first trophyless season in eight years. He allowed Kevin De Bruyne, one of his most trusted midfield lieutenants, to leave on a free transfer and left underperforming £100-million signing Jack Grealish out of City's Club World Cup squad. Kyle Walker is set to return from a short-term loan spell at AC Milan, but he no longer has a place in the team. Guardiola wants to both freshen up his side and reduce the total number of players under his watch.With Rayan Cherki, Rayan Ait-Nouri, and Tijjani Reijnders all joining City over the last week, Guardiola has already managed to achieve the necessary turnover. He could angle for a new goalkeeper, and PSG's Gianluigi Donnarumma is a candidate given his contract standoff in Paris. If Donnarumma ends up renewing his deal, Porto's Diogo Costa feels like a nice alternative. City also need a long-term solution at right-back after shoehorning midfielder Matheus Nunes into that position this past season, and while Newcastle would try their best to keep Tino Livramento, the reliable 22-year-old fits the bill.<h3>Manchester United</h3>Biggest need(s): Forward, striker, goalkeeper Target(s): Bryan Mbeumo, Victor Osimhen, Viktor Gyokeres, Emi MartinezManchester United might not be able to attract the type of talent they need to get them back into the Champion League conversation. After a historically poor Premier League campaign, they're left trying to sign players without the promise of playing in Europe next season. After finishing 15th, you could argue the Red Devils need to improve every area of their squad, but more firepower up front is a clear priority. They've already strengthened their attack with the arrival of Matheus Cunha from Wolves. Bryan Mbeumo looked set to join the Brazilian forward, but now there are doubts given that the Brentford winger has been rumored to reunite with former Bees coach Thomas Frank at Tottenham Hotspur. Manchester United will likely now need to consider alternatives who can boost a lowly attack that only scored 44 times in the Premier League last term. Strikers like Victor Osimhen and Gyokeres could help solve that issue, but their respective price tags present an issue.The situation isn't much better at the back, where confidence in goalkeeper Andre Onana has dwindled after numerous costly blunders. Surprisingly, Emi Martinez has emerged as a possibility. The World Cup-winning Argentine appears likely to leave Aston Villa this summer.<h3>Newcastle United</h3>Biggest need(s): Forward Target(s): Justin Kluivert, Joao Pedro, Anthony Elanga<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766021/cropped_GettyImages-2194541111.jpg?ts=1737211767" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766021/w220xh124_GettyImages-2194541111.jpg?ts=1737211767 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766021/w320xh180_GettyImages-2194541111.jpg?ts=1737211767 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766021/w640xh360_GettyImages-2194541111.jpg?ts=1737211767 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766021/w768xh432_GettyImages-2194541111.jpg?ts=1737211767 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766021/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2194541111.jpg?ts=1737211767 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Visionhaus / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>It'd take a huge offer for Newcastle to allow Alexander Isak to leave, especially now that the club's financial situation is in better condition following Champions League qualification. But Isak's backup striker, Callum Wilson, hasn't scored a Premier League goal since May 2024, and youngster William Osula is yet to be trusted with a start in England's top flight. Winger Anthony Gordon also suffered a dramatic dip in form following his red card in the FA Cup loss to Brighton &amp; Hove Albion in March.Newcastle need to strengthen their attack to successfully navigate their domestic and continental commitments next season. It's no surprise that the Magpies are reportedly plotting swoops for frontmen who are proven in the Premier League, like Bournemouth's Justin Kluivert and Brighton's Joao Pedro. The one concern about those players? Kluivert scored 12 times and Pedro netted 10 in the 2024-25 Premier League term, but both players struck half of their goals from the penalty spot. Nottingham Forest's Anthony Elanga would be a clever signing to improve Eddie Howe's wide options.<h3>Tottenham Hotspur</h3>Biggest need(s): Forward Target(s): Bryan Mbeumo, Yoane Wissa, Antoine SemenyoMathys Tel's loan from Bayern Munich was made permanent, and Manor Solomon should be given another chance in the first team after an impressive season-long spell at Leeds United. Nevertheless, Tottenham Hotspur's attack still needs work, especially if Son Heung-min decides to leave the club after an iconic 10-season stay in north London.Mbeumo, a standout Premier League forward with 20 goals and seven assists last season, would be an excellent acquisition. Frank was Mbeumo's boss at Brentford for six seasons, which makes the arrival of the Cameroonian international seem much likelier. Yoane Wissa, who hit 19 goals and provided four assists last term, could also be plucked from Frank's former club, while Antoine Semenyo's reputation has skyrocketed since he's slotted seamlessly into various attacking roles at Bournemouth.

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Biggest transfer needs, ideal signings for Premier League's top clubs

The 2026 World Cup is certainly extravagant. With 48 teams, it's the largest event in the competi...

The 2026 World Cup is certainly extravagant. With 48 teams, it's the largest event in the competition's history. It'll stage 78 of its 104 matches in the United States - perhaps the most ostentatious country on the planet. Add the potential international farewells of two of the best players in the sport's history, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, and the inevitable gallery of Hollywood stars in the stands, and you've undoubtedly got the gaudiest World Cup in history.So, it's fitting that the matches will be a battle royal between A-list coaches.The U.S. men's national team is the responsibility of Mauricio Pochettino, a celebrated coach who won trophies with Paris Saint-Germain and led Tottenham Hotspur to a Champions League final. Jesse Marsch, the American in charge of Canada, isn't a preeminent figure by any means, but his reputation far outweighs those of his predecessors. Mexico and Iran, other teams assured of World Cup places, have entrusted high-profile veterans Javier Aguirre and Amir Ghalenoei with their men's teams.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>But that barely scratches the surface.Carlo Ancelotti, winner of a record five Champions League titles as a head coach, recently assumed control of Brazil - and despite exaggerated panic over the team's subpar performances, he guided the Selecao to World Cup qualification in his second match. Elsewhere in South America, Marcelo Bielsa is one of the most influential coaches in the game - Pep Guardiola is a longtime admirer of his ambitious and innovative methods - and he should take Uruguay to North America despite a recent downturn in results. Uruguay finished third at last year's Copa America.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789223/cropped_GettyImages-2150872982.jpg?ts=1749235688" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789223/w220xh124_GettyImages-2150872982.jpg?ts=1749235688 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789223/w320xh180_GettyImages-2150872982.jpg?ts=1749235688 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789223/w640xh360_GettyImages-2150872982.jpg?ts=1749235688 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789223/w768xh432_GettyImages-2150872982.jpg?ts=1749235688 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789223/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2150872982.jpg?ts=1749235688 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Thomas Tuchel and Carlo Ancelotti before a Champions League semifinal in 2024 Chris Brunskill/Fantasista / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>Europe is awash with super-coaches. Trophy-hoarding tactician Thomas Tuchel is at the helm of England. Julian Nagelsmann, who has one of the biggest reputations among current coaches at just 37, is sculpting Germany's exciting attack. Didier Deschamps guided crisis-hit Juventus back to Serie A and lifted cups in France before moving into international football in 2012 and hoisting the World Cup with his homeland six years later. Portugal handler Roberto Martinez is clearly in a lower tier than Europe's most notable international bosses, but he unexpectedly won an FA Cup with Wigan Athletic and oversaw Belgium's best-ever World Cup finish in 2018.Collectively, the aforementioned coaches have finished with the best record in top-tier leagues or conquered them via a playoff system on 25 occasions, won 33 domestic cups, tasted glory in 18 continental or global club competitions (with a charitable inclusion of Ancelotti's Intertoto Cup win with Juventus in 1999), and lifted trophies in five international tournaments.Yet there's little evidence that this trophy-winning pedigree is a guarantee of success on the international stage.<h3>Time at a premium</h3>Taking over a national team appears to be an increasingly attractive proposition for decorated managers seeking relief from the intense club calendar. International football can also present unique challenges: Guardiola was rumored to be enticed by the challenge of winning the England men's team's first major trophy since 1966 before Tuchel jumped at the opportunity. And the colorful and fervent atmospheres at international fixtures are often more alluring than those in the European club game and certainly drown out the tired groans on social media each time domestic leagues pause for international windows.But big names don't necessarily win prizes with national teams. Like many of his contemporaries, U.S. boss Pochettino built his reputation on tough training sessions, strong player-coach relationships earned through hard hours and in-depth tactical sessions, and the gradual development of youngsters with carefully controlled minutes and extremely attentive man management. International football doesn't afford coaches that time. Club matches are constant, while international games are sporadic and sometimes even expendable for players. USMNT captain Christian Pulisic, for example, is skipping this summer's Gold Cup to rest after a long season with AC Milan.Pochettino, who hasn't always had his full complement of players available and will be forced to field an undermanned squad for the Gold Cup, has lost four straight matches with the U.S., including a humbling 4-0 defeat to Switzerland that showcased the team's limited depth.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749757/cropped_GettyImages-2178153810.jpg?ts=1728844653" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749757/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178153810.jpg?ts=1728844653 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749757/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178153810.jpg?ts=1728844653 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749757/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178153810.jpg?ts=1728844653 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749757/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178153810.jpg?ts=1728844653 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749757/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178153810.jpg?ts=1728844653 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Mauricio Pochettino gives Christian Pulisic some instructions in October 2024 John Dorton/ISI Photos/USSF / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The lack of time spent with players at training camps and on the pitch during matches isn't a natural environment for a domineering modern coach with detailed tactics and a keen eye on improving players. Even at the expanded 2026 World Cup, the road to glory is just eight matches. The need to deliver instant results on the biggest stages, with such a small sample of actual games, is in direct opposition to the concept of building a long-term project.Many high-profile international coaches could benefit from taking a page out of Lionel Scaloni's book.The fact that Scaloni isn't an imposing character worked in his favor. He didn't try to revolutionize Argentina's playing style in the few hours he had after taking the job. Initially, Scaloni's most transformative work seemed to be away from practice as he eased pressure on his players - namely Messi - and tempered fans' expectations."He's very calm, he's very laid back, he's very humble. His ego is miniscule," journalist Jonathan Wilson said in Copa90's <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDCnBMymsrE">"Once in a Lifetime"</a> documentary on Argentina."And he had this mantra he kept repeating: 'We win, we lose - nobody dies, it's fine. People get too excited about football. It's only football.' And that, I think, is what Argentina needed."Scaloni was never more than an assistant manager before the Argentine Football Federation appointed him as an affordable head coach of the men's team. He subsequently ended Argentina's 28-year Copa America drought in 2021, won the country's first World Cup in over 36 years in 2022, and enjoyed more Copa America success last summer.Emerse Fae is a more extreme example of how training drills and coaching resumes matter less on the international stage. Fae's experience was limited to youth teams, Clermont Foot's reserve side, and assistant roles before he succeeded his boss, Jean-Louis Gasset, as Ivory Coast coach in January 2024. Fae inherited a team in disarray and faced a unique scenario: The Elephants were in the Africa Cup of Nations knockout rounds after limping through the group stage with one win and two defeats. Ivory Coast then won the tournament under Fae's watch, prevailing in the last 16 against Senegal, the quarterfinal meeting with Mali, and the final showdown with Nigeria despite conceding the first goal in each of those matches.Scaloni and Fae's achievements can feel like miracles, but modest coaches winning huge tournaments are hardly isolated incidents in modern international football.International soccer's titleholders<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Tournament</th>
<th>Coach</th>
<th>Previous major titles</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>World Cup</td>
<td>Lionel Scaloni (Argentina)</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Copa America</td>
<td>Lionel Scaloni (Argentina)</td>
<td>0*</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>European Championship</td>
<td>Luis de la Fuente (Spain)</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Africa Cup of Nations</td>
<td>Emerse Fae (Ivory Coast)</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Asian Cup</td>
<td>Tintin Marquez (Qatar)</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>OFC Nations Cup</td>
<td>Darren Bazeley (New Zealand)</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CONCACAF Gold Cup</td>
<td>Jaime Lozano (Mexico)</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>*Scaloni's inaugural Copa America triumph in 2021 was his first. Under his watch, Argentina defended its title in 2024.Luis de la Fuente and Gareth Southgate, the respective bosses of Spain and England, had no senior trophies between them before their teams contested the Euro 2024 final in Berlin.Based on numbers alone, the esteemed coaches who will man the World Cup dugouts are more likely to harm their reputations rather than furnish them. Nagelsmann and Luciano Spalletti were arguably the best coaches on paper before Euro 2024 kicked off. Nagelsmann's Germany exited in the quarterfinals. Spalletti, winner of three top-flight titles and five domestic cups as a coach, fell in the last 16 with Italy, and he was relieved of his duties this week after the Azzurri's 2026 World Cup qualification campaign opened with a harrowing 3-0 defeat to Norway.The super-coach era is an admission of desperation. It's a clear sign that federations are trying to buy their way out of a trophy drought, wring the last drops out of a talented generation, or do anything they can to avoid embarrassment on home soil. And it's a surefire gamble when recent history suggests the morale of the players, and smartly dealing with pressure from supporters and the media, matter much more than the tactical blueprint of an A-list national team coach.

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World Cup teams enter super-coach era. There's little evidence it'll work

The United States men's national team head coach, Mauricio Pochettino, tried to shift the blame a...

The United States men's national team head coach, Mauricio Pochettino, tried to shift the blame away from his players after his squad rotation backfired spectacularly in Tuesday's pre-Gold Cup friendly against Switzerland.The USMNT conceded four goals in the opening half of a home match for the first time in its history, and the eventual 4-0 defeat marked the fourth straight loss of a terrible run that started with a shock Nations League semifinal setback to Panama in March. The last time the USMNT lost four consecutive matches was in 2007."That was my decision, and it was my fault. The first half, all the critics should be or could be for me because I think that was my decision," Pochettino said, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45489101/forget-world-cup-usmnt-look-ready-gold-cup">ESPN's Jeff Carlisle</a>. "But at the same time, it was the good intention to provide all the players the possibility to play and try to compete for a place (in) the World Cup."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Five players who had fewer than five international caps started against Switzerland in Nashville, Tennessee, and seven members of the starting XI were aged 24 or younger. The inexperience in Pochettino's squad is largely enforced while he's missing numerous senior players, including captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/60435" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/60435">Christian Pulisic</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/92825" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/92825">Weston McKennie</a>, but his decision to make nine changes from the previous match - Saturday's 2-1 loss to Turkey - proved costly as the U.S. conceded four goals inside the opening 36 minutes.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/21484" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/21484">Walker Zimmerman</a>, one of the experienced starters at 32 and with 45 caps to his name, warned against onlookers overreacting to the USMNT's latest defeat and highlighted how a lot can change in soccer in a short space of time."It's really easy to look at one game, one half, and be like, oh, this is all going to pieces, they can't come back from this," defender Walker Zimmerman said, according to <a href="https://apnews.com/article/us-losing-streak-pochettino-203168bc399d01ab7a5f7c2d359eb079">The Associated Press</a>. "But you look even the build-up to the 2022 (World Cup), we take down Morocco 3-0 and they make it into the semifinal. Things change — that was six months apart. It's not the end of the world."U.S. supporters booed the team at halftime, and concern is growing that the current regression will lead to an embarrassment on home soil at next year's World Cup. The USMNT will try to lift the mood when it opens its Gold Cup campaign against Trinidad and Tobago on Sunday before taking on Saudi Arabia and Haiti in its other group-stage matches."The fans are going to be there for sure in the Gold Cup and the World Cup," Pochettino said. "I have no worries about that."

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE - JUNE 10: United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino looks on in action during a friendly match between the United States and Switzerland at GEODIS Park on June 10, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee.

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Pochettino accepts responsibility after another concerning USMNT defeat

The 2024-25 Premier League campaign is in the books following Sunday's final round of fixtures. H...

The 2024-25 Premier League campaign is in the books following Sunday's final round of fixtures. Here are the standout statistics and facts that define the season.0.56 - Between early November and Boxing Day, Manchester City collected just five points from the 27 on offer, which works out to 0.56 points per game. No team earned fewer points over that span. City's record thereafter (43 points from 20 games) was only bettered by Liverpool.1 - It was a season of many unwanted firsts for Manchester United. They completed their first-ever Premier League campaign without back-to-back wins. Their longest winless streak was eight matches, which is United's worst run in the Premier League era. They finished a lowly 15th in the table.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>1 - Southampton finished the season with 12 points, just one more than the worst team in Premier League history, the Derby County side that recorded 11 during their infamous 2007-08 campaign.3+3 - Bournemouth's Justin Kluivert became the first player in Premier League history - and the first in a top-flight game since 1957 - to score a hat-trick of penalties in November's 4-2 win at Wolverhampton Wanderers. Evanilson won all three penalties, marking another first in the Premier League era.5 - Arne Slot guided Liverpool to the Premier League title in his first season at the helm. He's the fifth manager in the competition's history to complete the feat after Jose Mourinho, Carlo Ancelotti, Manuel Pellegrini, and Antonio Conte.6 - Nicolas Jackson, Mohammed Kudus, Cole Palmer, and Mohamed Salah will be ruing their luck after each player hit the woodwork a league-leading six times this season.7 - Southampton set a record for the earliest relegation in Premier League history. The Saints were relegated on April 6 with seven matches still left to play. They also became the first Premier League team to lose 30 games in a season.8 - Alexander Isak scored in eight straight games for Newcastle United before his run ground to a halt in a 4-1 home defeat to Bournemouth in mid-January. Jamie Vardy's 11-match streak during Leicester City's 2015-16 title-winning campaign still holds the record.13 - Arsenal's David Raya and Nottingham Forest's Matz Sels shared the Golden Glove award this season, each finishing with 13 clean sheets on the campaign.17 - Fulham registered the most goals scored by substitutes in Premier League history at 17. The previous record of 15 was shared by Arsenal (2009-10), Manchester City (2011-12), and Liverpool (2015-16).18 - Manchester United lost 18 Premier League matches this season. That's more than Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester City combined (17). It's United's highest number of defeats since they recorded 20 losses and were relegated in the 1973-74 campaign.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787210/cropped_GettyImages-2216998067.jpg?ts=1748195453" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787210/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216998067.jpg?ts=1748195453 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787210/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216998067.jpg?ts=1748195453 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787210/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216998067.jpg?ts=1748195453 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787210/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216998067.jpg?ts=1748195453 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787210/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216998067.jpg?ts=1748195453 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> James Gill - Danehouse / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>20 - Liverpool are now level with hated rivals Manchester United for the most top-flight titles in English football history. Arsenal (13), Manchester City (10), and Everton (nine) complete the top five.21 - Arsenal dropped 21 points from winning positions, which is their joint-most in a single Premier League campaign. They also dropped 21 points en route to an eighth-placed finish in the 2019-20 season.23 - Remove results against the relegated trio, and Manchester United would sit bottom of the final Premier League standings with a measly haul of 23 points from a possible 87.26 - Tottenham Hotspur lost 26 matches across all competitions in the 2024-25 season, equaling a club record from 1991-92 for the most defeats in a single campaign. Nevertheless, Spurs, who finished in 17th place, qualified for the Champions League after beating Manchester United in the Europa League final.29 - Nottingham Forest qualified for the Conference League, booking their first appearance in a European competition in over 29 years. In their last continental adventure, Forest were eliminated from the UEFA Cup quarterfinals by a Jurgen Klinsmann-inspired Bayern Munich in March 1996.31 - Manchester United conceded the opening goal in 31 matches across all competitions this season. That's more than any other Premier League club.33 - Wolverhampton Wanderers were positioned 19th with just nine points from 16 matches when Vitor Pereira took over. Their haul of 33 points in 22 matches since his appointment saved them from relegation.40 - Aston Villa made Villa Park a fortress. In addition to some notable home wins over Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, and others in Champions League play, Villa tied last year's club record with 40 Premier League points earned in their own backyard. They also registered the fewest defeats in a single Premier League season at Villa Park, with last August's 2-0 loss to Arsenal the only blemish on their record.41% - Arsenal's dangerous set-pieces earned a lot of credit during the campaign, but maybe Nicolas Jover's scouting and coaching placed too much emphasis on attacking: No team conceded a higher proportion of their goals from set-pieces than Arsenal at 41%.47 - With a goal on the final day of the campaign, Golden Boot winner Salah tied the Premier League record for most goal contributions in a single season with 47 (29 goals, 18 assists). He now shares the record with Alan Shearer and Andy Cole, who reached that mark in 42-game seasons.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787202/cropped_GettyImages-2216991808.jpg?ts=1748192133" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787202/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216991808.jpg?ts=1748192133 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787202/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216991808.jpg?ts=1748192133 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787202/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216991808.jpg?ts=1748192133 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787202/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216991808.jpg?ts=1748192133 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/787202/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216991808.jpg?ts=1748192133 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Carl Recine / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>54 - Fulham set a club record with their best overall points tally in a Premier League season. They got 54 points on the board to finish in 11th place.68 - William Saliba tied two members of Arsenal's Invincibles team when he made his 100th Premier League appearance for the club. He won 68 times on his way to a century of outings, putting him level with Sol Campbell and Lauren.93 - Mohamed Kudus was a regular source of frustration for West Ham United fans as he was dispossessed a league-high 93 times over the course of the season.£107.6M - Ipswich Town, who finished 19th, had the second-highest net spend last summer at £107.6 million, according to figures reported by <a href="https://www.thescore.com/epl/news/2919400">BBC Sport</a>. They raised a relative pittance in sales at under £1.5 million while bringing in the likes of Liam Delap, Jack Clarke, Arijanet Muric, Sammie Szmodics, and others in an ambitious yet ultimately insufficient recruitment drive.153 - Mark Flekken was the busiest goalkeeper in the Premier League with 153 saves. Brentford conceded the second-most goals (57) out of the teams that finished in the top half of the table.£153.5M - Brighton &amp; Hove Albion had the Premier League's highest net spend last summer despite raising significant funds with the sales of Deniz Undav, Billy Gilmour, and Pascal Gross. They finished three places higher than they did in the previous campaign, with 13 more points.185 - Salah surpassed Manchester City legend Sergio Aguero's Premier League goal tally of 184 in March to become the highest-scoring foreign player in the competition's history. He scored one more goal to end the campaign with an all-time total of 186 and counting.200 - Vardy scored his 200th goal for Leicester in his 500th and final appearance for the club.234 - The final round of fixtures marked the 234th day that Liverpool have led the 2024-25 Premier League table. Only four other teams finished a day atop English football this term: Manchester City (41 days), Brighton (seven) and Manchester United (one).574 - Premier League teams combined to use 574 different players this season, with Southampton leading the way by giving minutes to 36 players.826 - Leicester went 826 minutes without scoring a Premier League goal at the King Power Stadium before Vardy smashed the ball into the roof of the net on May 3. The fans endured a run of nine home matches with nothing to celebrate - a record since the 1888 formation of England's Football League - while opponents combined for 22 goals.843 - Kevin De Bruyne played his 285th and final Premier League match for Manchester City in the last game of the campaign. In that time, he created 843 chances, recorded 118 assists, scored 72 goals, and won six league titles.2,791 - Iliman Ndiaye scored twice to ensure Everton won their 2,791st and final match at Goodison Park on May 18. The women's team will call the iconic stadium home from next season.3,420 - Brentford defender Nathan Collins was the only outfield player to be ever-present for his team for a total of 3,420 minutes plus added time. Five goalkeepers started and finished all 38 games.

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By the numbers: Stats and facts that define 2024-25 EPL season

Christian Pulisic wasn't included in United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino's depleted squa...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/60435" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/60435">Christian Pulisic</a> wasn't included in United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino's depleted squad for this summer's Gold Cup.Pulisic, the U.S. men's national team's marquee player and most talented forward, is "beaten up physically" after consecutive grueling seasons with AC Milan, sources told <a href="https://www.foxsports.com/stories/soccer/sources-usmnt-star-christian-pulisic-wont-play-gold-cup-summer">Doug McIntyre of FOX Sports</a>. The 26-year-old will set a new career high for minutes played in a single campaign if he surpasses 49 minutes in Milan's season finale against Monza on Saturday."Christian and his team approached the federation and the coaching staff about the possibility of stepping back this summer, given the amount of matches he has played in the past two years at both the club and international level with very little break," U.S. Soccer sporting director Matt Crocker said.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"After thoughtful discussions and careful consideration, we made the collective decision that this is the right moment for him to get the rest he needs," Crocker added, noting the importance for Pulisic to "perform at the highest level next season" ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which is co-hosted by the United States.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///intfr/players/67049" href="https://thescore.com/intfr/players/67049">Cameron Carter-Vickers</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/167254" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/167254">Yunus Musah</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/94902" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/94902">Antonee Robinson</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/99893" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/99893">Joe Scally</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fran/players/165826" href="https://thescore.com/fran/players/165826">Tanner Tessmann</a> were other notable names left off Pochettino's roster. Fellow absentees <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/92825" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/92825">Weston McKennie</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/50017" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/50017">Jordan Morris</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/161127" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/161127">Gio Reyna</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/40754" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/40754">Cristian Roldan</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/99646" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/99646">Tim Weah</a> were already expected to miss the tournament.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///intfr/players/162357" href="https://thescore.com/intfr/players/162357">Sergino Dest</a> returned to the national team fold for the first time since March 2024 after recovering from a torn ACL and helping PSV Eindhoven win the Eredivisie title. Monaco striker <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fran/players/162980" href="https://thescore.com/fran/players/162980">Folarin Balogun</a> is in the squad after battling shoulder issues during a four-goal Ligue 1 campaign.The Vancouver Whitecaps' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/165228" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/165228">Sebastian Berhalter</a>, Koln's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///gerdfbp/players/193314" href="https://thescore.com/gerdfbp/players/193314">Damion Downs</a>, Orlando City's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/187895" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/187895">Alex Freeman</a>, and the Philadelphia Union's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/178368" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/178368">Quinn Sullivan</a> earned their first USMNT call-ups.The Gold Cup begins June 14 and is hosted primarily in the United States. The U.S., a seven-time winner of the tournament, will meet old foe Trinidad and Tobago on June 15 before closing out group play against Haiti and guest nation Saudi Arabia.The team will warm up for the Gold Cup with friendlies against Turkey (June 7) and Switzerland (June 10). The current 27-man roster needs to be trimmed to 26 players before the tournament kicks off.<h3>USMNT squad</h3>Goalkeepers: Matt Freese (New York City), Patrick Schulte (Columbus), Zack Steffen (Colorado), Matt Turner (Crystal Palace)Defenders: Max Arfsten (Columbus), Sergino Dest (PSV Eindhoven), Alex Freeman (Orlando), DeJuan Jones (San Jose), Mark McKenzie (Toulouse), Tim Ream (Charlotte), Chris Richards (Crystal Palace), Miles Robinson (Cincinnati)Midfielders: Brenden Aaronson (Leeds), Tyler Adams (Bournemouth), Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver), Johnny Cardoso (Real Betis), Luca de la Torre (San Diego), Diego Luna (Salt Lake), Jack McGlynn (Houston), Quinn Sullivan (Philadelphia), Malik Tillman (PSV Eindhoven), Sean Zawadzki (Columbus)Forwards: Patrick Agyemang (Charlotte), Folarin Balogun (Monaco). Damion Downs (Cologne), Brian White (Vancouver), Haji Wright (Coventry)

INGLEWOOD, CA - MARCH 20: Weston McKennie #8 and Christian Pulisic #10 of USA warm up before the CONCACAF Nations League semifinal match between United States and Panama at SoFi Stadium on March 20, 2025 in Inglewood, California.

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Pulisic among USMNT stars missing Gold Cup this summer

Luka Modric will play his final match for Real Madrid at this summer's Club World Cup after becom...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///liga/players/1910" href="https://thescore.com/liga/players/1910">Luka Modric</a> will play his final match for Real Madrid at this summer's Club World Cup after becoming Los Blancos' most decorated player over 13 seasons in the Spanish capital.The midfielder, 39, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DJ9VH8JMz84/?img_index=1">announced</a> his upcoming departure on Instagram. He's set to play his last game for Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu against Real Sociedad on Saturday.Modric, a Ballon d'Or winner in 2018, won his last piece of silverware with Real Madrid at the Club World Cup in December, taking him to a club-record 28 titles with Real Madrid. He also surpassed Ferenc Puskas as the oldest footballer to both play and score for Real Madrid.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Modric's gold rush<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Competition</th>
<th>Wins</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Champions League</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>La Liga</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Copa del Rey</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Club World Cup</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>UEFA Super Cup</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Supercopa de Espana</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>"I am leaving with a full heart," the Croatian icon said in his social media post. "Full of pride, gratitude, and indelible memories. And although, after the Club World Cup, I will no longer wear this shirt on the pitch, I will always be a Real Madrid fan."Modric has appeared in 34 of 37 La Liga matches this season and started 11 of the team's 14 Champions League games before its elimination by Arsenal in the quarterfinals. He initially wanted to stay longer, but it was decided that he would instead depart following talks with the Real Madrid hierarchy this week, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6235469/2025/05/22/luka-modric-real-madrid-leaves/?source=emp_shared_article">The Athletic's Mario Cortegana and Guillermo Rai</a>.Croatia's record appearance holder (186 caps) appears set for a prolonged Real Madrid farewell in the United States. The Spanish giants take on Saudi Arabia's Al-Hilal, Mexico's Pachuca, and Austria's Red Bull Salzburg in the Club World Cup group stage before presumably embarking on a knockout run featuring the biggest football institutions on the globe.“Luka Modric will forever remain in the hearts of all Madridistas as a unique and exemplary footballer who has always embodied the values of Real Madrid," club president Florentino Perez <a href="https://www.realmadrid.com/en-US/news/club/announcements/comunicado-oficial-22-05-2025">said</a>. "His football has captured the imagination of Madridismo and fans all over the world. His legacy will live on forever."Modric joined Real Madrid from Tottenham Hotspur for around £30 million in 2012 and won his first trophy in the Supercopa de Espana two days after his arrival. He played four seasons with Tottenham after rising through the ranks to become a legendary figure at Dinamo Zagreb in his homeland.

MADRID, SPAIN - JUNE 02: Luka Modric of Real Madrid celebrates with Trophy at Fuente de Cibeles during Real Madrid UEFA Champions League Trophy Parade on June 02, 2024 in Madrid, Spain.

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Modric leaving Real Madrid after Club World Cup

Tottenham Hotspur beat Manchester United 1-0 in an ugly Europa League final on Wednesday, simulta...

Tottenham Hotspur beat Manchester United 1-0 in an ugly Europa League final on Wednesday, simultaneously ending the club's 17-year trophy drought and salvaging an otherwise dismal season with Champions League qualification.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/161384" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/161384">Brennan Johnson</a> decided the encounter in Bilbao with a goal near the end of the first half. It was the first time Spurs had scored in a final since Jonathan Woodgate headed the winner in the 2008 League Cup showpiece.Spurs' joy after the final whistle starkly contrasted the expressions on the Manchester United players' faces. The club can finish no higher than 14th in the 2024-25 Premier League campaign, failed to collect silverware elsewhere, and won't compete in any European competition next term.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Both winning manager Ange Postecoglou and losing coach Ruben Amorim might not be in charge of their teams at the beginning of next season. However, against all odds and in clear defiance of eye tests throughout Tottenham's error-strewn term, Postecoglou has delivered on his promise of silverware in his second season with the club."It was me just making a declaration, and I believed it - at the time I said it, I was still looking out for our club," Postecoglou <a href="https://www.barrons.com/news/postecoglou-wants-to-build-on-spurs-europa-league-triumph-despite-exit-talk-2624efd8">explained</a> after the match. "I know our league form has been terrible, but us finishing third wasn't going to change this football club. The only thing that was going to change this football club was us winning something. And when I said that, that was my intent."<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786753/cropped_GettyImages-2216327778.jpg?ts=1747861796" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786753/w220xh124_GettyImages-2216327778.jpg?ts=1747861796 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786753/w320xh180_GettyImages-2216327778.jpg?ts=1747861796 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786753/w640xh360_GettyImages-2216327778.jpg?ts=1747861796 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786753/w768xh432_GettyImages-2216327778.jpg?ts=1747861796 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/786753/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2216327778.jpg?ts=1747861796 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Ian MacNicol / Getty Images Sport / Getty</figcaption></figure>The opening period between the Premier League's fourth- and fifth-worst teams was predictably scrappy, punctuated by 16 fouls and a punishing lowlight reel of heavy or wayward passes. Tottenham's first goal suited the spectacle.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/168027" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/168027">Pape Sarr</a>'s dangerous cross in the 42nd minute was somehow diverted past <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/40714" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/40714">Andre Onana</a> as Johnson and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/16428" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/16428">Luke Shaw</a> collided at the near post. Johnson was generously credited with the goal.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/163335" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/163335">Amad Diallo</a> was United's best attacking outlet, but the young Ivorian winger lacked a decisive touch whenever he squirmed free of white shirts.The quality was no better after the break. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/187791" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/187791">Rasmus Hojlund</a> headed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/94759" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/94759">Guglielmo Vicario</a>'s poor punch straight over his head and toward the goalkeeper's net, only to be denied by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/184932" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/184932">Micky van de Ven</a>'s athletic hook on the goal line. Vicario saved a late Shaw header, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/17430" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/17430">Casemiro</a>'s overhead kick hit the side-netting, but United struggled to create many meaningful chances in northern Spain."For a club like Manchester United, it's nowhere near good enough," Shaw <a href="https://www.barrons.com/news/man-utd-must-make-changes-after-unacceptable-season-says-shaw-6def7ce4">said</a> after the match. "I think definitely me, and I think all of us have to question ourselves tonight, are we good enough to be here? Because this club, this season, it's not acceptable."

Tottenham Hotspur's South Korean forward #07 Son Heung-min raises the trophy as he celebrates with teammates winning the UEFA Europa League final football match between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United at San Mames stadium in Bilbao on May 21, 2025.

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Spurs beat Man United in Europa League final to end 17-year trophy drought

Lionel Messi urged Inter Miami to stay together after Sunday night's 3-0 home defeat to Orlando C...

<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1126" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1126">Lionel Messi</a> urged Inter Miami to stay together after Sunday night's 3-0 home defeat to Orlando City extended the team's dour run to one win, one draw, and five losses in their last seven games."(We need to) keep going. It's a complicated time," Messi told Apple TV post-match, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45216517/lionel-miami-inter-miami-orlando-city-loss">ESPN's Lizzy Becherano</a>. "But we'll all stay united. We're a team in difficult times, because when everyone wins, it's easy, but now that difficult times are coming, that's when we have to be more united than ever, be a true team, and move forward, because we have what it takes."The cold stretch is a stark change for an ambitious Inter Miami project that soared in 2024, winning the Supporters' Shield with a Major League Soccer regular-season points record of 74. However, the team has regressed since Messi's former Barcelona and Argentina teammate Javier Mascherano replaced Gerardo "Tata" Martino as head coach in the offseason.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Messi, his long-time colleagues from his Barcelona days - <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/4433" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/4433">Luis Suarez</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1114" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1114">Sergio Busquets</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1341" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1341">Jordi Alba</a> - and other players in Mascherano's ranks appeared tired and hampered by an unbalanced lineup in a 5-1 aggregate defeat to the Vancouver Whitecaps in the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinals in April. Their league form has fallen off a cliff since the two-legged affair with Vancouver kicked off.Miami's last seven games<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Date</th>
<th>Competition</th>
<th>Result</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>April 24</td>
<td>CCC</td>
<td>2-0 loss at Vancouver</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>April 27</td>
<td>MLS</td>
<td>4-3 loss at FC Dallas</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>April 30</td>
<td>CCC</td>
<td>3-1 loss vs. Vancouver</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>May 3</td>
<td>MLS</td>
<td>4-1 win vs. New York Red Bulls</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>May 10</td>
<td>MLS</td>
<td>4-1 loss at Minnesota</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>May 14</td>
<td>MLS</td>
<td>3-3 draw at San Jose</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>May 18</td>
<td>MLS</td>
<td>3-0 loss vs. Orlando</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>Inter Miami are sixth in the MLS Eastern Conference, seven points adrift of first-placed Philadelphia Union. Miami travels to Philadelphia next Saturday.The MLS franchise, which counts David Beckham as one of its owners, is desperate to avoid global embarrassment as it takes its woeful form into the Club World Cup. Inter Miami open the U.S.-hosted tournament with a match against Egypt's Al Ahly on June 14 before meetings with Portugal's FC Porto and Brazil's Palmeiras conclude their group stage."We're coming off a period of bad results," Messi said. "But we have to keep working and think about what's next. With three or four games left in May, we (have to) finish the best possible way to be able to face the Club World Cup."The pressure is rising on Mascherano. The former defensive midfielder, whose many major honors as a Barcelona player included two Champions League crowns, tried to deflect scrutiny away from the stars in his squad."It's clear that we must overcome this all together because clearly this team has shown, especially at the beginning of the season, what they are capable of," Mascherano said Sunday."Right now, I take full responsibility. I will not point out any players publicly, I am not that way. No one enters the pitch trying to have a bad time or to suffer. Every player tries to do their best with virtues and errors, and now we have to try to get the best out of these players to move forward."

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - MAY 18: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami FC reacts after missing a goal during the game against Orlando City SC at Chase Stadium on May 18, 2025 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

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Messi calls for unity after Inter Miami slump to another defeat

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has paid for 30 members of his backroom staff to take t...

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim has paid for 30 members of his backroom staff to take their families to the Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur on May 21, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45128484/man-united-ruben-amorim-pay-30-staff-attend-uel-final-sources">ESPN's Mark Ogden</a>.The Portuguese boss' move follows United executives reportedly informing him that his coaches, physios, and support team would have to buy their own tickets as the club introduces more cost-cutting measures this summer. Up to 200 people could lose their jobs this offseason as co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe tries to improve the club's financial state, Ogden reports.Manchester United's debt is currently at £731.5 million, and they could owe even more than that in interest payments, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6352213/2025/05/13/glazers-manchester-united-debt-takeover/">The Athletic's Phil Hay</a>.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The club decided to make staff pay for their own tickets so supporters have a better chance of being part of United's allocation of 15,000 seats at Bilbao's Estadio San Mames, sources told Ogden. But 60 of those tickets could now be taken after Amorim decided to ensure his staff can bring up to two friends or family members as a reward for their hard work during a tough period for the club.Manchester United are 16th in the Premier League and have lost 17 matches - their most in a single campaign since they were relegated in 1974. However, the Europa League final promises to save the season of either United or Tottenham, who are a position below Amorim's side in England's top flight, as victory earns a place in next term's lucrative opening phase of the Champions League.Last season, Manchester United reached the FA Cup final amid strong speculation that Amorim's predecessor, Erik ten Hag, would be sacked regardless of the result. United subsequently beat local rivals Manchester City at Wembley Stadium, and Ten Hag kept his job - only to be dismissed after just nine matches of this Premier League campaign. Ratcliffe has since admitted it was a mistake to extend Ten Hag's contract.United have fallen two places in the league standings since Amorim took the reins in November and lost to Fulham in the FA Cup and Tottenham in the League Cup. The club intends to keep Amorim even if his side loses to Spurs in the Europa League final, according to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/football/2025/may/13/manchester-united-ruben-amorim-europa-league-final">The Guardian's Jamie Jackson</a>.

BRENTFORD, ENGLAND - MAY 04: Manager Ruben Amorim of Manchester United watches from the dugout during the Premier League match between Brentford FC and Manchester United FC at Brentford Community Stadium on May 04, 2025 in Brentford, England.

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Report: Amorim buys UEL final tickets for Man Utd staff amid more club cuts

The Derby County class of 2007-08 remains the worst team in Premier League history.  Southampton ...

The Derby County class of 2007-08 remains the worst team in Premier League history.Southampton are now on 12 points - one above Derby's unwanted record - following Saturday's battling 0-0 draw against last season's champions Manchester City. The bottom-placed Saints have two more matches to add to their tally.Pep Guardiola called <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/159246" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/159246">Jeremy Doku</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/192475" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/192475">Nico O'Reilly</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/189140" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/189140">Savinho</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/166016" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/166016">Omar Marmoush</a> off the bench in the second half as City searched for a breakthrough. However, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/68746" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/68746">Aaron Ramsdale</a>'s inspired goalkeeping and some heroic last-ditch defending ensured Southampton kept a clean sheet. The hosts were also saved by the woodwork when Marmoush smacked the crossbar in the 91st minute.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Manchester City, who are embroiled in the battle to qualify for the Champions League via a top-five finish, attempted 26 shots to Southampton's two. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/159222" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/159222">Erling Haaland</a> played the full 90 minutes after a six-week injury layoff but could only muster a single attempt on goal.Aside from Ramsdale's athleticism between the sticks, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/69541" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/69541">Jan Bednarek</a> summed up Southampton's defense-first approach on the south coast as he smashed 13 clearances away from danger.Rams vs. Saints<figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>2007-08 Derby</th>
<th>Stat</th>
<th>2024-25 Southampton*</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td>Points</td>
<td>12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1-8-29</td>
<td>W-D-L</td>
<td>2-6-28</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>20</td>
<td>Goals scored</td>
<td>25</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>89</td>
<td>Goals conceded</td>
<td>82</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>-69</td>
<td>Goal difference</td>
<td>-57</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>* Two matches remainingSouthampton have a clear statistical superiority over Derby's infamous flops, but they set a record for the earliest relegation in Premier League history April 6 when their descent was confirmed with seven matches left to play.Southampton conclude their sorry campaign with a trip to Everton and a visit from Arsenal.

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - MAY 10: Jack Stephens of Southampton during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Manchester City FC at St Mary's Stadium on May 10, 2025 in Southampton, England.

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Southampton eclipse Derby's point total, avoid sharing unwanted record

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Daniel Rouse

Senior News Editor

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Gianluca Nesci

Supervising Editor