Steve Clarke, Scotland
28 May 2026

Steve Clarke signed a new Scotland contract covering the 2028 Euros and 2030 World Cup, removing doubts over his future before this summer’s tournament. The deal gives Scotland long-term certainty after qualifying for their first men’s World Cup since 1998.

Clarke said he was honoured to lead Scotland into the World Cup and proud to continue. The extension lets the squad focus on the Haiti opener in Boston while the association builds around a manager who has delivered repeated tournament qualification.

Seamus Coleman, Republic of Ireland, Israel
28 May 2026

Seamus Coleman said Republic of Ireland players should not have been left to answer questions over upcoming Nations League matches against Israel. Pressure for a boycott has grown, but the Football Association of Ireland says the fixtures will go ahead.

Coleman said the issue should have been dealt with above the players and called the situation uncomfortable. The captain stressed the human side of the debate while acknowledging football sanctions could follow if Ireland refused to play.

Kenneth Vargas, Warren Madrigal, Alejandro Bran, Costa Rica
28 May 2026

Kenneth Vargas, Warren Madrigal and Alejandro Bran have been dropped from Costa Rica’s camp before friendlies against Colombia and England. The federation said discipline and respect for team rules are essential to representing the national side.

Bran’s removal followed reports of a police investigation into an alleged shooting incident involving his car. Vargas and Madrigal were then excluded separately, while Alajuelense also acted against Bran and Vargas at club level this week.

Tommy Elphick, Bournemouth, Bristol City, Marco Rose
27 May 2026

Tommy Elphick is set to remain at Bournemouth after turning down the chance to become Bristol City manager. The assistant coach is expected to stay at the Vitality Stadium under new boss Marco Rose.

Bristol City had targeted Elphick ahead of Lincoln City manager Michael Skubala, who later signed a new deal. The Robins must continue their search after Roy Hodgson’s interim spell ended with a 12th-place finish.

Chelsea, Football Association, Charlton Athletic
27 May 2026

Chelsea have been charged with misconduct by the Football Association over supporter behaviour during their FA Cup win at Charlton Athletic. The case relates to incidents involving travelling fans at The Valley in January.

The FA opened disciplinary proceedings after reviewing reports from match officials and stadium security. Chelsea now face the formal process despite the match ending in a comfortable 5-1 victory during Liam Rosenior’s Charlton debut.

Sergio Ramos, Sevilla
27 May 2026

Sergio Ramos’ attempt to invest in Sevilla has reportedly collapsed after the club rejected a reduced offer. Talks had advanced toward an agreement, but the former Real Madrid defender’s lower bid ended the takeover push.

Sevilla were open to investment discussions, but the revised proposal fell short of what had been discussed. The failed move leaves Ramos without a route into the club’s ownership structure for now.

FIFA, New York Attorney General, New Jersey Attorney General
27 May 2026

New York and New Jersey attorneys general have subpoenaed FIFA over World Cup ticketing practices. The investigation focuses on pricing, seat maps, ticket categories and complaints that fans were misled while buying seats for MetLife Stadium matches.

Officials cited concerns over dynamic pricing, fake scarcity and confusing category changes after millions of tickets had already been sold. FIFA has defended its maps as guidance and said pricing reflects demand for the tournament.

Martin Drury, Huddersfield Town, Jon Stead
27 May 2026

Huddersfield Town appointed Martin Drury as head coach after his caretaker spell at the end of the season. The 40-year-old was chosen after a full recruitment process and will be assisted by Jon Stead.

Drury took charge after Liam Manning’s compassionate leave and guided Huddersfield to two wins from seven matches. The club praised his leadership in difficult circumstances as they prepare for another League One campaign.

Bradley Carnell, Philadelphia Union, Ryan Richter, Jon Scheer
27 May 2026

Philadelphia Union fired Bradley Carnell less than a year after he led the club to the Supporters’ Shield. The Union sit bottom of MLS with seven points from 15 matches before the World Cup break.

Ryan Richter has been named interim manager, while Jon Scheer becomes sporting director permanently. Carnell’s exit continues a sharp fall after Philadelphia lost key players and posted the league’s worst record this season.

Barcelona, Barca Foundation, Gran Tierra Energy
27 May 2026

Barcelona’s foundation faces sportswashing allegations over its partnership with Gran Tierra Energy in Colombia. Local activists claim the club’s charity work in Putumayo helps soften the image of an oil company accused of environmental harm.

The project used football activities for vulnerable children and included Barcelona branding alongside Gran Tierra support. Community leaders told The Athletic they fear the partnership could help the company gain legitimacy, while Gran Tierra denies the allegations.