FOOTBALL

Liverpool Set to Hijack Munoz Move

Victor Munoz, Liverpool, Osasuna, Newcastle United, Andoni Iraola
18 June 2026

Liverpool are set to sign Spain winger Victor Munoz from Osasuna after triggering his €40m release clause and overtaking Newcastle United in the race. The 22-year-old is currently with Spain’s World Cup squad.

Liverpool need wide attacking reinforcements after Mohamed Salah’s exit and Hugo Ekitike’s long-term injury, while Federico Chiesa could also leave. Munoz offers pace and directness, making him Andoni Iraola’s first signing as Liverpool head coach.

Angel City Sign Sentnor in Major NWSL Deal

Ally Sentnor, Angel City, Kansas City Current, Utah Royals
18 June 2026

Angel City have signed United States forward Ally Sentnor from Kansas City Current in an $850,000 deal, according to reports. The fee is the second-highest guaranteed intra-league transfer in NWSL history.

Sentnor has become a regular USWNT option with seven goals in 23 caps and can play centrally, wide or as a number 10. Kansas City’s sale also triggers a sell-on payment to Utah Royals.

England Beat Croatia in Six-Goal World Cup Opener

England, Croatia, Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Marcus Rashford
18 June 2026

England opened their World Cup campaign with a 4-2 win over Croatia in Dallas, as Harry Kane scored twice before Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford struck after half-time. Croatia twice equalised through Martin Baturina and Petar Musa.

Thomas Tuchel’s side looked dangerous in attack but fragile defensively, especially before the break. His half-time message pushed England to press higher and play faster, turning a nervous first half into a statement attacking win.

Parreira Hospitalised During Cancer Fight

Carlos Alberto Parreira, Brazil, Zinho, Samaritano Barra Hospital
18 June 2026

Brazil’s 1994 World Cup-winning coach Carlos Alberto Parreira has been hospitalised while undergoing treatment for Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Samaritano Barra Hospital confirmed his admission but did not provide further medical details or a timeline.

Former Brazil player Zinho said Parreira was not in good shape and had lung problems requiring ventilation, while doctors continue treatment. The 83-year-old coached Brazil to the 1994 World Cup title and later returned in 2006.

Wahi Played World Cup After Spot-Fixing Arrest

Elye Wahi, Ivory Coast, Nice, French Football League, Marseille
18 June 2026

Ivory Coast striker Elye Wahi played at the World Cup after being arrested and released in Marseille over alleged spot-fixing linked to a Ligue 1 match. French authorities are investigating unusual bets on him receiving a yellow card.

The French league said it reported suspicious betting alerts to police, gambling authorities and the federation, while also filing a criminal complaint. Wahi has not been charged and started Ivory Coast’s opening win over Ecuador.

Drone Intercepted Over South Korea Training Base

South Korea, Mexico, Hong Myung-bo, Mexican military
18 June 2026

Mexican military officials reportedly intercepted an unregistered drone flying over South Korea’s training base before their World Cup match against Mexico. The incident happened during a key session in Guadalajara and raised concerns over possible spying.

South Korea coach Hong Myung-bo said the disruption was unfortunate but did not significantly affect preparations. The incident comes after Canada’s women’s team faced drone-spying sanctions at the Paris Olympics, increasing sensitivity around training security.

DR Congo Hold Portugal as Ronaldo Drought Continues

DR Congo, Portugal, Cristiano Ronaldo, Yoane Wissa, Joao Neves
18 June 2026

DR Congo earned their first World Cup point with a 1-1 draw against Portugal in Houston, after Yoane Wissa cancelled out Joao Neves’ early header. Cristiano Ronaldo played the full match but failed to score again.

Portugal dominated possession but lacked incision, while DR Congo defended bravely and threatened on counters. Ronaldo’s 10-game major tournament scoring drought drew scrutiny, with Roberto Martinez defending his decision to keep the 41-year-old on.

Davies Available for Canada’s Qatar Clash

Alphonso Davies, Canada, Jesse Marsch, Qatar, Moise Bombito
18 June 2026

Alphonso Davies is available for Canada’s second World Cup match against Qatar after returning to training following his injury recovery. Jesse Marsch said Davies and Moise Bombito can both be used, depending on match situation.

Davies had been managed carefully after a Champions League injury with Bayern Munich and remained in return-to-play protocol during camp. His availability gives Canada a major boost as they chase their first World Cup win.

Sam Kerr Agrees Gotham Return

Sam Kerr, Gotham FC, Chelsea, Australia, Kristie Mewis
18 June 2026

Sam Kerr has reportedly agreed terms to return to Gotham FC and the NWSL after leaving Chelsea as a free agent. The Australia captain ended her Chelsea spell with 116 goals, five league titles and multiple domestic cups.

Kerr previously starred in the NWSL, winning Golden Boot and MVP honours with Sky Blue FC before moving to Chicago and then Chelsea. Gotham have since rebranded, improved facilities and prepared a more ambitious setup.

United Rule Out Fresh Rashford Loan to Barcelona

Manchester United, Marcus Rashford, Barcelona, Anthony Gordon, Crysencio Summerville
17 June 2026

Manchester United have no plans to negotiate a new loan deal with Barcelona for Marcus Rashford. Barcelona allowed their permanent option to expire after agreeing a deal for Anthony Gordon.

United now want a permanent sale and are inviting realistic proposals through intermediaries. Barcelona still interest Rashford, but Gordon’s arrival has reduced his value to them, complicating United’s summer plans for a left-wing rebuild.