FOOTBALL

Morocco Seal 2026 World Cup Spot in Style

Morocco national team
September 2025

Morocco thrashed Niger 5-0 to book their 2026 World Cup place with two games to spare. The Atlas Lions have now qualified after winning all six group matches, cementing their place among the early confirmed participants for the tournament. Following their historic Qatar 2022 semi-final run, Morocco extended their impressive trajectory by dominating qualification. The team’s consistency and attacking firepower proved decisive, and optimism is high that they can replicate or better their deep run in the United States.

Greenwood Not in Tuchel’s England Plans Amid Jamaica Links

Mason Greenwood
September 2025

Thomas Tuchel confirmed Mason Greenwood is not under England consideration after Jamaica arranged his passport for possible World Cup qualifiers. Greenwood is delaying his decision while weighing international futures between the Three Lions and Reggae Boyz. Tuchel revealed he believed Greenwood was joining Jamaica and said England had made no contact. Despite his Marseille form, Greenwood remains outside Tuchel’s plans as the England boss prepares for upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Greenwood is expected to clarify his future soon.

Everton Hope to Secure Pickford Until Retirement

Jordan Pickford (Everton)
September 2025

Everton want to hand Jordan Pickford another long-term contract that could see him retire at the club. The 31-year-old, signed from Sunderland in 2017, is viewed as central to stability after eight turbulent years at Goodison Park. With David Moyes back at the helm and Everton now playing at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, the club is eager to keep its cult-hero goalkeeper. Talks are ongoing, and Pickford’s loyalty and performances have made him indispensable for the Toffees.

Sancho Warned Over ‘Make or Break’ Villa Spell

Jadon Sancho (Aston Villa)
September 2025

Jadon Sancho has been warned his Aston Villa loan could define his career, with his wages threatened to fall from £350k to £50k if he fails to deliver, underscoring the pressure on him to justify his reputation. After flopping at Manchester United and a brief Chelsea loan, Sancho now follows Marcus Rashford’s path to Villa. With limited output of 12 goals in 83 United games, he must prove his worth under Unai Emery or risk irreparably damaging his elite status.

Lewandowski Denies Captaincy Rift on Poland Return

Robert Lewandowski (Poland national team)
September 2025

Robert Lewandowski returned to Poland’s lineup in a 1-1 draw with Netherlands and dismissed claims his prior absence stemmed from a captaincy dispute, insisting the armband was “never a problem” and that his exile was exaggerated. The Barcelona striker explained tensions arose under ex-coach Michał Probierz, who handed the armband to Piotr Zielinski, prompting his temporary withdrawal. With Jan Urban taking over, Lewandowski was swiftly reinstated as captain, calling his return a fresh start and stressing unity over past controversy.

Kimmich Slams Germany Attitude After Slovakia Shock

Joshua Kimmich (Germany national team)
September 2025

Germany captain Joshua Kimmich was critical of his team’s lack of courage and belief after a stunning 2-0 World Cup qualifying defeat to Slovakia, admitting the result was a humiliation despite fielding a near full-strength lineup. Kimmich denied internal divisions but labelled the loss “an attitude issue,” highlighting poor conviction in key moments. Slovakia exploited defensive lapses, with David Hancko’s opener and David Strelec’s long-range strike exposing vulnerabilities in Julian Nagelsmann’s side, deepening Germany’s ongoing struggles in competitive matches.

Tuchel Backs England to End Trophy Wait

Thomas Tuchel
September 2025

England boss Thomas Tuchel expressed confidence his side can replicate the success of the U21s and women’s team by finally lifting a major trophy, dismissing talk of a “curse” and framing recent English triumphs as a positive omen. Citing Sarina Wiegman’s Euros win and Lee Carsley’s back-to-back U21 titles, Tuchel said England’s pathway to glory is clear. He vowed to follow those examples by instilling belief and hard work, while promising his team would give their utmost in pursuit of silverware.

Messi Bids Emotional Farewell in Argentina After Final Home Qualifier

Lionel Messi (Argentina)
September 2025

Lionel Messi played his final competitive game on home soil, scoring twice in Argentina’s 3-0 World Cup qualifying win over Venezuela. The Inter Miami star admitted emotions ran high, calling it “a dream” to finish in front of his people.
Argentina, already qualified with 35 points from 16 games, gave Messi the perfect send-off at Estadio Monumental. While Messi hasn’t confirmed his World Cup participation, he said he’ll decide based on fitness in 2026, stressing honesty with himself over playing if unfit.

Onana and Bayindir Futures in Doubt After Lammens Arrival

Andre Onana Altay Bayindir (Manchester United)
September 2025

Manchester United are open to selling Andre Onana or Altay Bayindir after signing Senne Lammens, with Saudi and Turkish clubs interested before their respective windows shut. Both goalkeepers have made costly mistakes early in the season. United boss Ruben Amorim wants stability before the World Cup cycle, with one departure expected to streamline competition. Both keepers had pledged to fight for their spot, but international ambitions and poor form could push at least one exit.

Saudi Clubs Circle Harry Maguire With Window Still Open

Harry Maguire (Manchester United)
September 2025

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire is attracting serious interest from Saudi clubs before their September 23 deadline, though he may wait until season’s end. United risk losing him for free, as he’s entering the final year of his deal. United rejected bids from England and Italy but face a dilemma: cash in now or lose Maguire next summer. The defender, still valued for his England experience, would only consider moving abroad in 2026 to ensure focus on United first.