Tottenham Hotspur captain Son Heung-min wants to leave the club this summer.  The South Korean st...

Tottenham Hotspur captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/12696" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/12696">Son Heung-min</a> wants to leave the club this summer.The South Korean star confirmed during a press conference Friday that he informed new manager Thomas Frank of his desire to depart after 10 years with the Premier League side."It was the most difficult decision I have made in my career. The main reason is I have achieved everything I can at Tottenham. I need a new environment for a fresh challenge," Son said, according to <a href="https://x.com/AlasdairGold/status/1951452686039261397">Alasdair Gold of Football London</a>. <div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Son added: "I came to north London as a kid. A boy came to London who couldn't speak English. I leave this club as a man. Thanks to all the Spurs fans who have given me so much love."A <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6510015/2025/07/23/lafc-son-heung-min-summer-transfer-mls-tottenham/">report</a> surfaced in July regarding Los Angeles FC's interest in bringing the 33-year-old forward to Major League Soccer. Talks are now ongoing between the parties, and Son is keen on the move, reports <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6529894/2025/08/01/son-heung-min-tottenham-lafc-transfer/?utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=twhq&amp;source=twitterhq">Jay Harris of The Athletic</a>.Saudi Arabian clubs have also reportedly shown interest in Son, but the former Puskas Award winner prefers LAFC. Spurs, in recognition of his decade of service to the club, apparently want to make his exit as smooth as possible.Son joined Tottenham from Bayer Leverkusen in 2015, scoring 173 times in 450 appearances across all competitions. A beloved figure at the club, he put together a run of eight consecutive seasons in which he hit double digits in Premier League goals, including in 2021-22 when he shared the Golden Boot with Liverpool's Mohamed Salah.Son was named captain by former manager Ange Postecoglou in 2023. His crowning achievement with Spurs came when he helped the club end its 17-year trophy drought by winning the Europa League in May.His final match for Tottenham could come Sunday in front of adoring fans and compatriots, as Spurs will meet Newcastle United in a preseason friendly at the Seoul World Cup Stadium in his home country."It's very clear that Sonny will start and lead the team out as captain," Frank said during Friday's press conference. "If it is the last game for Sonny, what a place to do it here in front of his home fans. It could be a beautiful ending."

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 25: Son Heung-Min of Tottenham Hotspur waves as he stands the UEFA Europa League trophy during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur FC and Brighton & Hove Albion FC at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on May 25, 2025 in London, England.

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Son asks to leave Tottenham amid reported talks with LAFC

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

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Running analysis and grades for every major summer transfer

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

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

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

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Bayern Munich sign Diaz from Liverpool for reported €75M

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Canada's Buchanan makes move from Inter to Villarreal permanent

The Vancouver Whitecaps are finalizing the signing of Germany and Bayern Munich legend Thomas Mul...

The Vancouver Whitecaps are finalizing the signing of Germany and Bayern Munich legend <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/2232" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/2232">Thomas Muller</a>, sources told <a href="https://www.givemesport.com/vancouver-finalizing-thomas-muller-transfers-signing-sources/">Tom Bogert and Ben Jacobs of GiveMeSport</a>.The Whitecaps reportedly agreed to a deal in principle with FC Cincinnati to acquire Muller's MLS discovery rights, which was the last hurdle before the move could be sealed.Cincinnati held Muller's discovery rights after making an offer for the 35-year-old free agent earlier this summer and will receive up to $400,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM) from Vancouver, according to Bogert and Jacobs.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Since Cincinnati didn't have an open Designated Player (DP) spot on its roster, the most it could offer Muller was just under $2 million, which he turned down, Bogert and Jacobs add.Muller won't be a DP upon his arrival in Vancouver, but he will take up one of those roster spots beginning in 2026.The World Cup winner <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3258967" href="https://thescore.com/news/3258967">announced</a> in April that he'd be leaving his boyhood club after 25 trophy-laden years. Bayern Munich opted not to offer the veteran forward a new contract, a decision Muller said he respected although it didn't "reflect (his) personal wishes."He played his final match for Bayern at the Club World Cup this summer.Muller joined the German giants when he was 10 and went on to craft one of the most decorated careers in the sport's modern era.He made more appearances for Bayern than any player in history - over 500 in the Bundesliga alone - and won 33 trophies. That list includes 13 Bundesliga titles, six German Cups, and two Champions League crowns.He racked up 250 goals and 276 assists in 756 appearances across all competitions for the Bavarian side.Muller also earned 131 caps for Germany. He won the Golden Boot as the top scorer at the 2010 World Cup and then helped Germany lift the trophy four years later in Brazil.

MUNICH, GERMANY - MAY 10: Thomas Müller of FC Bayern Muenchen waves goodbye to the home fans as he's subbed off for the last time during the Bundesliga match between FC Bayern München and Borussia Mönchengladbach at Allianz Arena on May 10, 2025 in Munich, Germany.

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Report: Whitecaps finalizing deal to sign German legend Muller

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

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

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

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Arsenal finally seal Gyokeres deal for reported €73.5M

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Golden Ball winner Palmer: Chelsea silenced doubters in CWC final

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

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

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

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Chelsea stun PSG to win Club World Cup

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

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

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

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Canada star David joins Juventus on free transfer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Toronto FC part ways with Insigne and Bernardeschi

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

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

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

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10-man Canada stunned by Guatemala in Gold Cup shootout

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

We have reached the business end of the 2025 Club World Cup.  The revamped tournament is moving i...

We have reached the business end of the 2025 Club World Cup.The revamped tournament is moving into the knockout stage after an intriguing opening round ended Thursday. The European clubs, for the most part, came through unscathed, while Brazil's representatives made noise with their play on the pitch and their standout supporters in the stands.Real Madrid and Al-Hilal were the last two teams to advance from the group stage. The former beat Red Bull Salzburg 3-0 to finish atop Group H, while Al-Hilal grabbed second place. Madrid will meet Juventus in the last 16, while Al-Hilal have the daunting task of taking on Manchester City, who were the only team to emerge from the opening round with a perfect record.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Knockout stage is set. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFACWC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFACWC</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ocob6Q9juC">pic.twitter.com/Ocob6Q9juC</a>— Major League Soccer (@MLS) <a href="https://twitter.com/MLS/status/1938434389421240399?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 27, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1126" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1126">Lionel Messi</a>'s reunion with European champions Paris Saint-Germain, and his influential former coach Luis Enrique, is arguably the standout fixture of the next round. Inter Miami and PSG are on the same side of the bracket as Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, Juventus, and Borussia Dortmund.Manchester City, fresh off a 5-2 shellacking of Juve, will feel confident about their chances of reaching the final on the other side of the bracket, though Champions League finalists Inter Milan could potentially stand in their way in the quarterfinals.Brazil is guaranteed to have at least one team in the quarters, with Palmeiras and Botafogo set to meet in the last 16. That's the lone last-16 matchup that doesn't involve a European side.The Club World Cup final will be played July 13 at MetLife Stadium.Round of 16 schedule All times listed in ETJune 28: Palmeiras vs. Botafogo (12 p.m.) - Lincoln Financial Field, PhiladelphiaJune 28: Benfica vs. Chelsea (4 p.m.) - Bank of America Stadium, CharlotteJune 29: PSG vs. Inter Miami (12 p.m.) - Mercedes-Benz Stadium, AtlantaJune 29: Flamengo vs. Bayern Munich (4 p.m.) - Hard Rock Stadium, MiamiJune 30: Inter Milan vs. Fluminense (3 p.m.) - Bank of America Stadium, CharlotteJune 30: Manchester City vs. Al-Hilal (9 p.m.) - Camping World Stadium, OrlandoJuly 1: Real Madrid vs. Juventus (3 p.m.) - Hard Rock Stadium, MiamiJuly 1: Borussia Dortmund vs. Monterrey (9 p.m.) - Mercedes-Benz Stadium, AtlantaThe schedule from the quarterfinal onward can be found <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3293324" href="https://thescore.com/news/3293324">here</a>. <h3> </h3><h3> </h3>

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - JUNE 14: A detailed view of the FIFA Club World Cup trophy on the pitch prior to the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group A match between Al Ahly FC and Internacional CF Miami at Hard Rock Stadium on June 14, 2025 in Miami Gardens, Florida.

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Club World Cup bracket: PSG, Bayern, Madrid, Juve on same side

Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi retained his status as Major League Soccer's highest-paid player...

Inter Miami captain <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1126" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1126">Lionel Messi</a> retained his status as Major League Soccer's highest-paid player in 2025, according to annual salary data <a href="https://mlsplayers.org/resources/salary-guide">released</a> by the MLS Players Association (MLSPA) on Wednesday.The Argentine superstar's total guaranteed compensation is $20.4 million. His base salary accounts for more than half that amount, coming in at $12 million.His total compensation doesn't reflect any non-playing revenue streams. Messi has a lucrative sponsorship deal with Adidas, and a revenue-sharing agreement with MLS broadcast partner Apple.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>It was previously <a href="https://www.sportico.com/personalities/athletes/2023/lionel-messi-career-earnings-billion-mls-1234730823/">reported</a> that Messi could earn up to $150 million over the life of his existing contract with Inter Miami, which he signed in 2023. The deal is due to expire at the end of the year, though he's widely expected to extend his stay with the MLS club.With Messi leading the way, Inter Miami broke their own MLS record for total payroll. Guaranteed compensation for their entire squad totals $46.84 million, which is $5 million more than the benchmark they set last year. It's also at least double the outlay of every other team in the league except Toronto FC and Atlanta United.Messi's teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/1114" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/1114">Sergio Busquets</a> ranks third in the league in guaranteed compensation. The veteran midfielder is making $8.7 million this season. Only <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/7611" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/7611">Lorenzo Insigne</a> of Toronto FC, at $15.4 million, stops Miami from having the two highest-paid players in MLS.Atlanta's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/59535" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/59535">Miguel Almiron</a> ($7.8 million) and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/67865" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/67865">Hirving Lozano</a> of expansion side San Diego FC ($7.6 million) round out the top five highest-paid players.There are currently 131 players in MLS who make at least $1 million. The average guaranteed compensation for the league's entire pool of players also continues to rise. It now sits at $649,199, a 9.22% increase from the spring of last year.CF Montreal have the league's lowest payroll at $11.99 million, while reigning MLS Cup champions the LA Galaxy come in at $22.87 million.The current Collective Bargaining Agreement between the league and MLSPA, signed in 2021, runs through the 2027 season.

ATLANTA, GA MARCH 16: Lionel Messi #10 and Luis Suarez #9 of Inter Miami react after Messi's first-half goal during the MLS match between Inter Miami CF and Atlanta United FC on March 16th, 2025 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA.

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Messi tops MLS salary list at $20.4M, Miami breaks payroll record

Canada advanced to the Gold Cup quarterfinals with a 2-0 win over El Salvador on Tuesday in a mes...

Canada advanced to the Gold Cup quarterfinals with a 2-0 win over El Salvador on Tuesday in a messy match punctuated by two red cards issued to El Salvador in the first half.Canada, thrown off its game by El Salvador's excessively physical approach, had to wait until the 53rd minute to open the scoring. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///concagc/players/159817" href="https://thescore.com/concagc/players/159817">Jonathan David</a>, who had a first-half penalty saved by <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mls/players/85572" href="https://thescore.com/mls/players/85572">Mario Gonzalez</a>, broke the deadlock by picking out the bottom corner with a precise finish. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///concagc/players/148092" href="https://thescore.com/concagc/players/148092">Tajon Buchanan</a> doubled the lead three minutes later to seal the result.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Jonathan David with the perfect finish! <a href="https://t.co/uJzjSv4kp2">pic.twitter.com/uJzjSv4kp2</a>— Gold Cup (@GoldCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/GoldCup/status/1937715192558707007?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The win means Canada finishes atop Group B. Jesse Marsch's team will meet Guatemala in the quarterfinals of the competition.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Marsch was on the bench for the first time at the tournament. He spent the first two matches serving a suspension for a red card he received during the Nations League third-place game in March.Tuesday's contest at Shell Energy Stadium in Houston got off to an inauspicious start, with El Salvador's Santos Ortiz taking an errant boot to the head in the opening seconds and requiring treatment that delayed play for nearly 10 minutes.Ortiz was then sent off after being shown his second yellow card in the 35th minute for a wild tackle. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///concagc/players/62341" href="https://thescore.com/concagc/players/62341">Jairo Henriquez</a> followed that up by throwing an inexplicable elbow to the face of <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///concagc/players/165277" href="https://thescore.com/concagc/players/165277">Alistair Johnston</a> deep into first-half stoppage time, immediately after David was denied from the penalty spot.Referee Joe Dickerson was told by the VAR to review the incident, and he brandished a red card after a quick check. El Salvador became the first team to have two players sent off in the first half of a Gold Cup match.El Salvador's physio was also sent off after the halftime whistle."Typical CONCACAF," Canada's David <a href="https://x.com/FOXSoccer/status/1937726626298835443">said</a> after the match of El Salvador's tactics. "I think a bit chaotic, a lot of fouls – but we knew, we expected this, so we were just ready for it."The untidy contest brought an end to the opening round of the tournament and finalized the quarterfinal matchups.Gold Cup quarterfinal matchups (all times ET):June 28: Panama vs. Honduras (7:15 p.m.) June 28: Mexico vs. Saudi Arabia (10:15 p.m.) June 29: Canada vs. Guatemala (4 p.m.) June 29: United States vs. Costa Rica (7 p.m.)Canada and the United States are on the same side of the bracket and will meet in the semifinals if they both win their respective quarterfinal games.Mexico is the reigning Gold Cup champion, and is looking to become the first nation to win the CONCACAF event 10 times.The Gold Cup final is slated for July 6.

HOUSTON, TEXAS - JUNE 24: Jonathan David #10 of Canada scores during the Group Stage - Group B match between Canada and El Salvador as part of the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup at Shell Energy Stadium on June 24, 2025 in Houston, Texas.

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Canada head coach Jesse Marsch has been cleared of any wrongdoing following a CONCACAF investigat...

Canada head coach Jesse Marsch has been cleared of any wrongdoing following a CONCACAF investigation into his conduct during the ongoing Gold Cup, the governing body <a href="https://www.concacaf.com/news/concacaf-disciplinary-committee-decision-on-the-case-of-the-canadian-soccer-association-and-jesse-marsch/">announced</a> Monday.Marsch and Canada Soccer were under investigation for "incidents" that occurred during the team's tournament opener last week, a 6-0 win over Honduras at BC Place in Vancouver.Canada Soccer (CSA) was fined an undisclosed amount for "breaching security protocols for accredited delegation officials and for failing to comply with anti-doping procedures by not providing the required representative for the halftime doping control draw," CONCACAF said in a statement.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The CSA called the two fines "minor" in a brief <a href="https://news.canadasoccer.com/jesse-marsch-cleared-of-all-allegations-by-concacaf">statement</a>.CONCACAF was investigating whether Marsch and the CSA disregarded rules regarding suspended officials, and whether the tactician used offensive language toward CONCACAF match officials.Marsch wasn't on the touchline for the 6-0 demolition of Honduras, as he was serving the first game of a two-match ban for a red card he received earlier this year during the Nations League third-place match.He planned to watch the Honduras game from a private suite within BC Place. The investigation centered on his frustrated response, and the language he used, when told by a CONCACAF official that he needed to move from that location, sources told <a href="https://x.com/TSNScianitti/status/1936097428362444893">TSN</a>.Marsch said little about the investigation when asked about it prior to Canada's second group match of the competition."I think it's a much bigger deal in the media than it is internally," he told reporters ahead of Canada's 1-1 draw with Curacao in Houston.Canada, looking to secure top spot in Group B, will close out group play against El Salvador today. Marsch is eligible to return to the bench.

INGLEWOOD, CA - MARCH 23: Head coach Jesse Marsch Canada directs his team during a Concacaf Nations League game between Canada and USMNT at SoFi Stadium at on March 23, 2025 in Inglewood, California.

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