FOOTBALL

Hakimi Ordered to Stand Trial in France

Achraf Hakimi, French prosecutors and Paris Saint-Germain
19 June 2026

Achraf Hakimi will stand trial in France over a rape allegation dating back to 2023, French prosecutors confirmed. The Paris Saint-Germain and Morocco defender denies wrongdoing and said he has been waiting for court proceedings to speak publicly.

The case comes during Morocco’s World Cup campaign, with Hakimi still captaining the side. No trial date has been set, while lawyers for both sides issued opposing statements after the latest court decision allowed the case to proceed.

Rashford Still Waiting for Barcelona Return

Marcus Rashford, Barcelona and Manchester United
19 June 2026

Marcus Rashford reportedly remains determined to return to Barcelona despite Anthony Gordon’s arrival at Camp Nou. Manchester United want a permanent sale, while Rashford is willing to wait for the Catalan club late into the window.

Barcelona declined to trigger a €30 million purchase option after last season’s loan, creating a financial barrier. Rashford’s preference may pressure both clubs, but United currently do not want another loan arrangement this summer.

Mexico Beat South Korea to Reach Knockouts

Mexico and South Korea
18 June 2026

Mexico beat South Korea 1-0 in Zapopan to become the first team to reach the World Cup knockout stage. Luis Romo scored after a defensive mix-up between goalkeeper Kim Seung-gyu and Lee Gi-hyuk after half-time.

The result gives Mexico six points from two Group A games and guarantees first place before facing Czechia. Javier Aguirre’s side now stay on home soil, with a round-of-32 tie set for the Estadio Azteca.

Manzambi Brace Lifts Switzerland Past Bosnia

Switzerland, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Johan Manzambi
19 June 2026

Johan Manzambi came off the bench to score twice as Switzerland beat Bosnia and Herzegovina 4-1 at the World Cup. The Freiburg midfielder broke open a tense match before Ruben Vargas and Granit Xhaka added late goals.

Bosnia’s Tarik Muharemovic was sent off after Manzambi’s opener, turning the match sharply in Switzerland’s favour. The win keeps Murat Yakin’s side in position to fight Canada for top spot in Group B next week.

Juventus Reopen Kolo Muani Talks With PSG

Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain and Randal Kolo Muani
19 June 2026

Juventus have reopened talks with Paris Saint-Germain over Randal Kolo Muani as they seek attacking reinforcements. New chief executive Giovanni Carnevali is reportedly leading fresh contact, with the forward still viewed as a priority target.

PSG value Kolo Muani at around €30 million, while Juventus prefer a loan with an obligation to buy. His previous loan spell in Turin strengthens the case, but the final structure remains the key negotiation point.

FIFA Changes Photographer Policy After Tuchel Complaint

FIFA, Thomas Tuchel and England
19 June 2026

FIFA has adjusted its pre-match photographer policy after Thomas Tuchel complained that photographers blocked his view during England’s national anthem against Croatia. The England boss said the wall of media ruined part of a special moment.

Photographers will now be grouped closer to the halfway line, while coaching staff can move laterally for a clearer view. The revised approach was trialled during Czech Republic against South Africa, with England seeking further clarity.

Coventry Face Arsenal in Premier League Opener

Arsenal, Coventry City and the Premier League
21 August 2026

Coventry City will mark their Premier League return with a Friday night trip to defending champions Arsenal on 21 August. Hull City host Manchester United, Ipswich meet Sunderland and Liverpool begin Andoni Iraola’s reign away to Newcastle.

The fixture release also confirms a later 30 May 2027 finish because of the World Cup schedule. Boxing Day gets a full round, Christmas rest gaps are protected and referee guidance on hair-pulling and holding will change.

Liverpool Told Diomande Price Has Moved Beyond €100m

Liverpool, RB Leipzig and Yan Diomande
19 June 2026

Liverpool are expected to continue their pursuit of Yan Diomande after a second proposal worth close to €100 million failed to meet RB Leipzig’s valuation. Paris Saint-Germain remain interested, but Liverpool appear to be pushing hardest.

Leipzig’s stance has strengthened after Diomande’s 20-goal-involvement Bundesliga season and World Cup rise. The German club now value him nearer €130 million, arguing the market for elite young attackers has moved sharply above nine figures.

Kane and Rice Expected Fit for Ghana Clash

Harry Kane, Declan Rice and England
19 June 2026

England expect Harry Kane and Declan Rice to be available for their second World Cup match against Ghana. Kane wore heavy strapping after the Croatia win, while Rice was withdrawn after reporting lower back and hamstring discomfort.

Thomas Tuchel said Rice’s substitution was precautionary and that the midfielder reassured him after the match. Kane’s issue is understood to be cramp management, preserving England’s core spine before Tuesday’s Group L fixture against Ghana.

Kone Breaks Leg as Canada Thrash Qatar

Ismael Kone, Canada and Qatar
18 June 2026

Canada midfielder Ismael Kone suffered a broken left leg during a 6-0 win over Qatar in Vancouver. He was stretchered off after Assim Madibo’s challenge, which was upgraded to a red card after VAR review.

Jesse Marsch said Canada were shaken and called Kone a huge loss after two strong World Cup games. Qatar finished with nine players, while Jonathan David scored a hat-trick as Canada moved top of Group B.