FOOTBALL

Askou Leaves Motherwell for Toulouse After European Finish

Jens Berthel Askou, Motherwell, Toulouse
21 May 2026

Jens Berthel Askou left Motherwell to become Toulouse head coach after guiding the Scottish club to fourth place and European football. Motherwell agreed a compensation package, with Askou calling his year at Fir Park an amazing journey.

Askou replaces Carles Martinez Novell at Toulouse after a season that lifted attendances and expectations at Motherwell. The club will now use its data-led recruitment process again, with Conference League qualifiers already waiting in July for the next manager.

Ronaldo Finally Lands Saudi League Crown as Al-Nassr Finish the Job

Cristiano Ronaldo, Al-Nassr, Damac
21 May 2026

Cristiano Ronaldo won his first Saudi Pro League title after scoring twice in Al-Nassr’s 4-1 final-day victory over Damac. The result ended the club’s wait for a league championship and held off rival pressure from Al-Hilal.

Al-Nassr needed a win after their earlier title chance slipped away against Al-Hilal. Ronaldo struck a free-kick and added another goal before leaving in tears, sealing the trophy he was signed to deliver in Riyadh.

Tuchel Leaves Foden, Palmer and Maguire Out of England World Cup Squad

Thomas Tuchel, England, Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, Harry Maguire
21 May 2026

Phil Foden, Cole Palmer and Harry Maguire are set to miss England’s 26-man World Cup squad, with Thomas Tuchel leaning on form and balance before Friday’s announcement. Ivan Toney, Ollie Watkins and Kobbie Mainoo are expected to make the cut.

Maguire reacted by saying he was shocked and gutted, while Foden and Palmer paid for uneven club seasons. Tuchel is expected to choose fresh attacking options, defensive versatility and penalty depth before England open against Croatia on 17 June.

FIFA Considers 66-Team World Cup Expansion for 2030

FIFA, Gianni Infantino, CONMEBOL
21 May 2026

FIFA is reportedly considering a proposal to expand the 2030 World Cup to 66 teams, just as the 2026 tournament prepares to debut its 48-team format. The idea has gained fresh attention inside football’s governing circles.

CONMEBOL previously pushed the concept to widen access, and FIFA officials are said to be discussing whether a larger event fits the tournament’s global direction. Supporters see more opportunity, while critics will question format and quality.

Luis Enrique Hints at 2030 Coaching Exit Before PSG Extension

Luis Enrique, PSG
21 May 2026

Luis Enrique suggested he could retire from coaching around 2030 as he prepares to sign a long-term PSG contract extension. The PSG boss said he does not want to remain in management into his senior years.

The Spaniard linked his likely retirement timing to the end of his proposed new deal, while PSG continue planning around him. The comments came as his side prepare for the Champions League final against Arsenal.

Harry Kane Delays Bayern Contract Talks Until After World Cup

Harry Kane, Bayern Munich, Herbert Hainer
21 May 2026

Harry Kane is in no rush to sign a Bayern Munich contract extension before the World Cup, despite the club wanting to secure his future. President Herbert Hainer said the striker feels no pressure over timing.

Bayern believe Kane wants to stay, but talks are expected to wait until after international duty. The England captain has focused on finishing the season strongly before deciding when to formalise his long-term commitment in Munich.

Manchester United Target Tonali and Ederson for Midfield Rebuild

Manchester United, Sandro Tonali, Ederson, Michael Carrick
21 May 2026

Manchester United are reportedly planning an ambitious midfield rebuild around Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali and Atalanta’s Ederson. Michael Carrick’s side want major upgrades as they prepare for Champions League football and a heavier schedule next season.

Tonali is viewed as a primary target, but Newcastle are reluctant to sell to a direct Premier League rival. United are also tracking Ederson, whose physical profile and ball-winning qualities could help replace Casemiro’s influence.

Sadio Mané Returns to Senegal Squad After 2022 World Cup Heartbreak

Sadio Mané, Senegal, Pape Thiaw
21 May 2026

Sadio Mané was named in Senegal’s provisional World Cup squad after missing the 2022 tournament through injury. Pape Thiaw selected a 28-man group, which must be trimmed to 26 before the final FIFA deadline on 2 June.

Mané joins Nicolas Jackson, Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr in attack, while Idrissa Gueye, Habib Diarra and Pape Matar Sarr strengthen midfield. Senegal will face France, Norway and Iraq in the group stage this summer.

Liverpool Agree Sara Agrez Free Transfer From Cologne

Sara Agrez, Liverpool, Cologne
21 May 2026

Liverpool agreed to sign Cologne defender Sara Agrez on a free transfer, with the centre-back set to join on 1 July. The move adds defensive cover after Gemma Bonner and Gemma Evans were confirmed as summer departures.

Agrez started 23 of Cologne’s 26 league matches last season and brings experience from Slovenia, Germany and international football. Liverpool moved early to refresh their back line before the new Women’s Super League campaign after two defensive exits.

Matthias Jaissle Emerges as Eintracht Frankfurt Favourite

Matthias Jaissle, Eintracht Frankfurt, Al-Ahli
20 May 2026

Matthias Jaissle is emerging as the leading candidate to become Eintracht Frankfurt manager after Albert Riera’s difficult spell ended. The Al-Ahli coach is reportedly open to returning to a top European league.

Frankfurt sporting director Markus Krösche has long admired Jaissle from their Red Bull network links and previously tried to hire him. After admitting the Riera appointment was a mistake, Krösche may move again this summer.