FOOTBALL

Olise Seeks Bayern Future Talks

Michael Olise, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and PSG.
After Olise’s standout World Cup group stage with France.

Michael Olise reportedly wants a meeting with Bayern Munich after the World Cup to clarify his long-term role, with Real Madrid and PSG monitoring his situation closely. His performances for France have increased outside interest.

Olise’s camp wants Bayern to outline how central he will be to their project, despite his contract running until 2029. Bayern remain reluctant to sell, but heavyweight interest is building after his breakout tournament.

Bournemouth Reject Arsenal Alex Scott Enquiry

Bournemouth, Arsenal and Alex Scott.
During Arsenal’s summer midfield search.

Bournemouth have rejected Arsenal’s enquiry for Alex Scott and told interested clubs the midfielder is not for sale. The Premier League champions are seeking central reinforcements, but Bournemouth want to keep Scott and extend his contract.

Scott has attracted interest from Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, Tottenham and Chelsea after rising quickly at Bournemouth. The Cherries see him as central to their plans and are not under pressure to sell this summer.

IFAB Rejects Penalty Toss Change

IFAB, FIFA and World Cup knockout teams.
As the World Cup knockout stage begins.

Football’s rulemakers have rejected FIFA’s proposed penalty shootout coin-toss change during the World Cup. The current system keeps two tosses, one for the penalty end and another for deciding which team shoots first.

FIFA wanted one toss, with the winner choosing either the end or the shooting order and the loser taking the other choice. IFAB resisted changing rules mid-tournament, though the idea may be revisited after this competition.

Rosenior Close to Paris FC Job

Liam Rosenior, Paris FC and Antoine Kombouare.
After Rosenior’s short Chelsea spell ended.

Liam Rosenior is close to returning to management with Paris FC, with his unveiling reportedly delayed until July 9. He is expected to replace Antoine Kombouare despite the veteran coach steering the club away from relegation trouble.

Paris FC appear ready to move in a new direction after tension with Kombouare over contract and pay issues. Rosenior’s previous French football experience at Strasbourg could help him adapt quickly in Ligue 1.

Real Madrid Donate to Venezuela Quake Aid

Real Madrid, Florentino Perez, Barcelona and Venezuela earthquake victims.
After two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela.

Real Madrid have donated €1m to help Venezuela earthquake victims, with president Florentino Perez adding another €1m personally. Barcelona also launched a humanitarian campaign and made an initial €100,000 contribution to wider relief efforts.

Real Madrid’s foundation is working with the Red Cross to support search, rescue and family assistance efforts. The disaster has hit Spain emotionally too, with Spaniards among the dead and Venezuela’s diaspora deeply affected.

Brazil Survive Japan Scare With Late Winner

Brazil, Japan, Carlo Ancelotti and Gabriel Martinelli.
In their World Cup round-of-32 tie in Houston.

Brazil came from behind to beat Japan 2-1 and avoid a historic World Cup knockout shock. Kaishu Sano put Japan ahead before Casemiro equalised and Gabriel Martinelli struck a stoppage-time winner to send Brazil into the last 16.

Ancelotti kept calm at half-time, changed the attacking shape and pushed Brazil to cross more often into the box. Endrick’s introduction stretched Japan, while Martinelli’s central positioning gave Brazil the late finish they needed.

Monterrey Finalise Diego Rossi Deal

Monterrey, Columbus Crew and Diego Rossi.
During the MLS and Liga MX summer transfer window.

Monterrey are finalising a deal to sign Columbus Crew forward Diego Rossi, with the fee expected to reach up to $8m. Rossi is set to leave after helping Columbus win MLS Cup and Leagues Cup.

Columbus can now add designated players to replace Rossi, especially with Wessam Abou Ali injured and Daniel Gazdag’s future uncertain. The move gives Monterrey a proven MLS scorer entering his prime years and forces the Crew into a quick rebuild.

Rodri Surgery Blow Hits Maresca Start

Rodri, Manchester City and Enzo Maresca.
Before Manchester City’s first season under Maresca.

Rodri is reportedly set to undergo surgery on a mystery injury after Spain’s World Cup campaign ends, creating an early setback for Manchester City’s new head coach. He is expected to miss most of pre-season.

Losing Rodri immediately complicates Maresca’s midfield planning and transition into the City job. The injury adds pressure after City already began a major rebuild, including Elliot Anderson’s expected record arrival and possible squad changes.

Sam Kerr Returns to Gotham FC

Sam Kerr, Gotham FC and Chelsea.
After Gotham’s NWSL Challenge Cup win.

Sam Kerr has joined Gotham FC on a contract through 2030, ending her six-year Chelsea spell and returning to the club she previously represented as Sky Blue FC. The Australia striker will officially join in July.

Gotham announced the signing after beating Kansas City Current in the Challenge Cup, adding one of women’s football’s biggest names. Kerr said the club’s ambition and rebuilt platform made the return feel special.

Maresca Confirmed as Manchester City Boss

Enzo Maresca, Manchester City, Chelsea and Pep Guardiola.
After City completed compensation talks with Chelsea.

Enzo Maresca has been confirmed as Manchester City’s new head coach on a three-year deal, replacing Pep Guardiola after his May exit. The move was delayed by compensation talks, with BBC Sport reporting City will pay Chelsea about £17m.

Chelsea said Maresca also reached a confidential compensation agreement with them after leaving midway through last season. Maresca apologised for the disruption caused at Stamford Bridge, but said his resignation opened the path for a return to City.