FOOTBALL

Pulisic Calf Scare Clouds USMNT Statement Win

Christian Pulisic, USMNT, Mauricio Pochettino, Paraguay
13 June 2026

Christian Pulisic was substituted at halftime during the USMNT’s 4-1 World Cup win over Paraguay after taking a kick to his left calf. The winger had helped create two early goals before leaving as a precaution.

Pulisic and Mauricio Pochettino both played down the issue after the match, saying the decision was made to avoid risk. His fitness will still be monitored closely before the United States face Australia in their next Group D match.

England Training Equipment Stolen Before Croatia Opener

England, Thomas Tuchel, Football Association, Kansas City Police
13 June 2026

England had training equipment stolen before their arrival in Kansas City for the World Cup. The Football Association is checking what was taken after vehicles carrying items to the Swope Soccer Village base were broken into.

Balls and boots are among the items feared missing, with police investigating and two arrests reportedly made. The theft could disrupt Thomas Tuchel’s preparations before England begin their Group L campaign against Croatia on Wednesday.

Barcelona Monitor Rapids Teen Herrington

Lucas Herrington, Barcelona, Colorado Rapids, Australia
12 June 2026

Barcelona are reportedly monitoring Colorado Rapids defender Lucas Herrington after the 18-year-old emerged as one of MLS’s breakout players. The centre-back has also been named in Australia’s World Cup squad after a strong league season.

Herrington’s rise could give Colorado another profitable defensive sale after Moise Bombito’s move to Nice. Barcelona’s interest adds a major European name to his market, while his World Cup exposure may increase attention from bigger clubs quickly.

SoFi Workers Wear Kick ICE Out Buttons

SoFi Stadium workers, Unite Here Local Eleven, USMNT, Paraguay
12 June 2026

Unionised SoFi Stadium workers have been given Kick ICE Out buttons ahead of the USMNT’s World Cup opener against Paraguay. Unite Here Local Eleven says its agreement allows one official union button while staff are on duty.

The protest follows months of concern over Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s role around World Cup venues. Workers also secured strike protections if federal agents create safety fears, while U.S. officials defended security planning for the tournament.

Bellingham Set to Start as Guehi Faces England Axe

Jude Bellingham, Marc Guehi, England, Thomas Tuchel
12 June 2026

Jude Bellingham is expected to start in England’s World Cup opener against Croatia, with Morgan Rogers likely to begin on the bench. Marc Guehi may also miss out, as Thomas Tuchel leans toward John Stones and Ezri Konsa at centre-back.

Tuchel’s final warm-up selection against Costa Rica offered clues, with Noni Madueke also pushing to start if Bukayo Saka is eased in. The possible Guehi omission would be a surprise after his importance at Euro 2024 and Manchester City.

Bayern Eye Rashford After Barcelona Doubts

Marcus Rashford, Bayern Munich, Manchester United, Barcelona
12 June 2026

Bayern Munich reportedly believe they can sign Marcus Rashford after positive talks with the forward’s representatives. Barcelona are expected to reject their £26 million option, leaving Manchester United to resolve his future after last season’s loan.

The situation could shift quickly once Barcelona’s deadline passes, with Rashford’s wages and long contract still major factors. Bayern’s interest would give United a high-profile route to move him on without renegotiating the existing clause this summer.

Partey Denied Canada Entry for Ghana Opener

Thomas Partey, Ghana, FIFA, Canada
12 June 2026

Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey will miss the World Cup opener against Panama in Toronto after Canada refused his visa application. FIFA said host governments control immigration decisions, while Partey remains in Ghana’s U.S. camp and can face England and Croatia.

The decision links World Cup access issues to Partey’s pending UK trial on rape and sexual assault charges, which he denies. Ghana’s sports minister criticised the refusal, while Canada said every entrant is assessed individually under immigration law.

Palace Near Pierre Sage Appointment

Pierre Sage, Crystal Palace, Lens, Oliver Glasner
12 June 2026

Crystal Palace are close to finalising a deal for Lens manager Pierre Sage to become their new head coach. The Frenchman is set to replace Oliver Glasner after leading Lens to second in Ligue 1 and Coupe de France success.

Palace moved after Andoni Iraola joined Liverpool, with Frank Lampard, Kieran McKenna and Sean Dyche also discussed. Sage’s attacking style and English ability appeal to the club before a Europa League season and uncertain futures for key players.

Canada Earn First World Cup Point in Bosnia Draw

Canada, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Cyle Larin, Jovo Lukic
12 June 2026

Canada earned the first World Cup point in their history with a 1-1 draw against Bosnia-Herzegovina in Toronto. Jovo Lukic put Bosnia ahead before substitute Cyle Larin equalised late to lift the co-hosts without Alphonso Davies.

The draw could prove decisive in Group B, with Canada now needing a strong result against Qatar to move close to the knockout round. Jonathan David missed a major chance, but Larin’s impact changed the mood at BMO Field.

Arsenal Consider Tzolis Move

Christos Tzolis, Arsenal, Club Brugge, Mikel Arteta
12 June 2026

Arsenal are considering a move for Club Brugge forward Christos Tzolis after being offered the Greece international. Sporting director Andrea Berta is reportedly working on the potential deal, with Mikel Arteta believed to support the signing.

Tzolis could cost about £35 million after scoring 33 goals across two seasons in Belgium. Arsenal want another attacker this summer and also retain interest in Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers as recruitment plans accelerate.