Enrique Riquelme, Raul, Real Madrid, Florentino Perez
2 June 2026

Enrique Riquelme said Raul would become Real Madrid sporting director if he wins the club’s presidential election against Florentino Perez. The challenger said Madrid need a legend to lead their sporting project after two trophyless seasons.

Raul spent 16 seasons as a Madrid player and later coached Castilla, making him central to Riquelme’s pitch for change. Riquelme has not yet named his preferred head coach, despite Mourinho reports this week.

Aurelien Tchouameni, Federico Valverde, Real Madrid
2 June 2026

Aurelien Tchouameni dismissed reports about his training-ground clash with Federico Valverde, calling the coverage nonsense. Real Madrid had fined both players after a heated incident that led to Valverde suffering a forehead cut during an argument.

Tchouameni said the situation was exaggerated and insisted life goes on inside the squad. Valverde had also denied physical violence, explaining that frustration during training caused the argument to spiral beyond its real meaning publicly.

Toronto Police, FIFA, Ramy Jaber, Walid Sarhan
1 June 2026

Police in Canada made what they described as the largest known seizure of fake soccer jerseys in the country’s history before the World Cup. Officers recovered about $3.5 million worth of counterfeit shirts, flags and trophies.

The raid targeted a Mississauga warehouse after allegations that fake merchandise was being supplied to stores. Two Ontario residents were arrested and charged, while police warned fans that major tournaments often attract fraudulent goods.

Andres Iniesta, Gulf United, Barcelona
1 June 2026

Andres Iniesta has taken his first coaching role with Gulf United in the UAE’s second tier. The Barcelona legend has completed his A coaching licence and will gain practical experience while studying for his Pro licence.

Iniesta said Gulf United offers the right place to begin a new chapter focused on youth development. The move starts his coaching pathway after a trophy-filled playing career and could eventually lead toward a Barcelona return.

Robbie Keane, Celtic, Martin O’Neill
1 June 2026

Robbie Keane has held formal talks with Celtic over becoming their next manager. The former Liverpool striker has pitched a long-term project while the club decide whether to move on from Martin O’Neill.

Keane met Celtic officials in London and wants to add former club figures to his staff if appointed. O’Neill steadied the side and won the title, but his long-term future remains under discussion.

Pierre Sage, Crystal Palace, Andoni Iraola, Oliver Glasner
1 June 2026

Crystal Palace are expected to hold talks with Lens boss Pierre Sage as they search for Oliver Glasner’s replacement. Their pursuit shifted after Andoni Iraola moved closer to the Liverpool job following Arne Slot’s dismissal.

Sage led Lens to second in Ligue 1 and a Coupe de France win, making him one of Palace’s stronger options. Frank Lampard, Kieran McKenna, Dino Toppmoller, Thomas Frank and Sean Dyche are also being assessed.

FIFA, Estadio Azteca, AMTPP, Mexico
1 June 2026

Around 14,000 Estadio Azteca seat holders are set to attend World Cup matches for free after defending historic access rights. Their association says FIFA and stadium operator Ollamani must honour agreements dating back to the 1960s.

The dispute centres on box and grandstand seats sold before the stadium opened, with access guaranteed until 2065. Legal action preserved those rights before the opening match between Mexico and South Africa, leaving FIFA with limited room to manoeuvre.

James Milner, Brighton, Leeds United, Manchester City, Liverpool
1 June 2026

James Milner announced his retirement after a 24-year Premier League career and a record 658 appearances in England’s top flight. The 40-year-old leaves after spells with Leeds United, Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool and Brighton.

Milner won three Premier League titles, the Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup during a career built on versatility and professionalism. He said football gave him unforgettable moments, friendships and memories that will stay with him forever.

Kevin Keegan, Newcastle United, England
1 June 2026

Kevin Keegan revealed he has stage four cancer during a live event in Newcastle, months after his family first disclosed his illness. The former England captain and manager received a standing ovation at Tyne Theatre and Opera House.

Keegan said doctors discovered the cancer after scans following a car accident and surgery. Newcastle sent support to him and his family, while the club legend said he still hopes to return to St James’ Park to say goodbye.

South Africa, SAFA, Gayton McKenzie
31 May 2026

South Africa delayed their World Cup departure because of visa issues affecting players and officials. The team were due to fly out on Sunday before the opening match against Mexico, but remained in Johannesburg for training.

SAFA said it would hold an emergency committee meeting before giving further updates. Sports minister Gayton McKenzie criticised the situation publicly, calling it embarrassing and unfair to the players and coaching staff.