Rahm Emanuel, Chicago, FIFA, Soldier Field
8 June 2026

Former Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel defended his decision to reject 2026 World Cup hosting terms, saying FIFA shifted too much financial risk onto taxpayers. Chicago withdrew despite having Soldier Field, major transport links and previous World Cup hosting history.

Emanuel said FIFA’s contract exposed the city to security, transport, tax and stadium costs while FIFA kept most revenue. A possible demand for a Soldier Field dome became the final breaking point in negotiations.

Aymen Hussein, Iraq, United States Customs and Border Protection
7 June 2026

Iraq forward Aymen Hussein was reportedly questioned for almost seven hours by U.S. immigration officials after arriving in Chicago with the national team. He was eventually admitted, while Iraq’s team photographer was denied entry.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection said two travellers underwent additional inspection during routine admissibility checks. Iraq are preparing for a warm-up against Venezuela before opening their World Cup campaign against Norway in Foxborough.

England, Kansas City Police, Thomas Tuchel
7 June 2026

Nine people were injured in a shooting near England’s World Cup base in Kansas City early on Saturday. Police were called to Troost Avenue, about seven kilometres from Swope Soccer Village, with no life-threatening injuries reported.

England are still in Florida after beating New Zealand and will travel to Kansas City after their Costa Rica friendly. The incident adds security attention around a city also hosting Argentina, Algeria and the Netherlands during the tournament.

Robin van Persie, Feyenoord, Devy Rigaux
7 June 2026

Feyenoord sacked Robin van Persie after just 16 months in charge, despite finishing second in the Eredivisie and qualifying for the Champions League. The former striker leaves after one full season managing his boyhood club.

Technical director Devy Rigaux praised Van Persie’s effort but said an internal review showed a declining trend in points and playing style. Feyenoord finished 19 points behind PSV and will now start next season with a new coach.

David Sullivan, West Ham United
6 June 2026

David Sullivan resigned as West Ham joint-chair after being made aware of impending serious historic allegations. The 77-year-old denied the claims and said they relate to his personal life, not the club or his football work.

Sullivan said he was stepping down to focus fully on legal action against the allegations. West Ham confirmed the move after a difficult period that also included relegation and supporter anger toward the board.

Lamine Yamal, Barcelona, Hansi Flick
6 June 2026

Lamine Yamal was named La Liga Player of the Season after driving Barcelona’s title-winning campaign under Hansi Flick. The 18-year-old finished the league season with 16 goals and 11 assists as Barcelona topped the table.

Yamal’s award adds another individual honour before Spain’s World Cup campaign, despite recent fitness concerns. Barcelona also saw Hansi Flick named Coach of the Season and Joan Garcia recognised for Save of the Season.

Jurgen Klopp, Real Madrid, Enrique Riquelme, Marc Kosicke
6 June 2026

Jurgen Klopp’s agent rejected claims linking the former Liverpool manager with Real Madrid after Enrique Riquelme promised to pursue him if elected president. Marc Kosicke said Klopp is committed to his current executive role.

Riquelme had placed Klopp at the centre of his sporting pitch alongside Raul Gonzalez and other bold promises. The denial weakens another campaign claim before Sunday’s vote, with Florentino Perez still expected to remain favourite.

Tony Mowbray, Blackburn Rovers, Michael O’Neill
5 June 2026

Blackburn Rovers appointed Tony Mowbray as head coach for a second spell after Michael O’Neill declined the permanent job. The 62-year-old returns to Ewood Park after the club survived a turbulent Championship season and finished 20th.

Mowbray previously led Blackburn from League One back to the Championship and later managed Sunderland, Birmingham and West Brom. His return gives Rovers experience and stability, but the squad needs quick recruitment after finishing 20th last season.

Iran, United States, Tom Barrack, Marco Rubio
5 June 2026

Iran’s World Cup players have received visas to enter the United States, according to U.S. officials. The squad applied through the American embassy in Turkey while holding a training camp in Antalya before travelling for the tournament.

Officials said visas were issued for players, coaches, trainers and some support staff, though it was unclear if any applicants were denied. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the delegation would still be monitored for security concerns.

Oliver Glasner, AC Milan, Mauricio Pochettino
5 June 2026

Oliver Glasner reportedly has the edge over Mauricio Pochettino in AC Milan’s search for a new manager. Milan are still rebuilding their football structure after Massimiliano Allegri’s exit and a disappointing season outside the Champions League.

Glasner’s Conference League success with Crystal Palace has strengthened his profile, while Pochettino remains tied to USMNT World Cup duties. Milan’s decision will shape their transfer plans and attempt to return quickly to Europe’s elite.