FOOTBALL

Iran Players Receive US Visas Before World Cup

Iran, United States, Tom Barrack, Marco Rubio
5 June 2026

Iran’s World Cup players have received visas to enter the United States, according to U.S. officials. The squad applied through the American embassy in Turkey while holding a training camp in Antalya before travelling for the tournament.

Officials said visas were issued for players, coaches, trainers and some support staff, though it was unclear if any applicants were denied. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the delegation would still be monitored for security concerns.

Olise Emerges as Perez’s Madrid Election Statement

Michael Olise, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Florentino Perez
5 June 2026

Real Madrid are reportedly ready to make a £130 million move for Michael Olise if Florentino Perez wins the club’s presidential election. The Bayern Munich winger has become another marquee name linked to Madrid’s summer reset.

Perez is expected to push major signings after two trophyless seasons, with Madrid already tied to several high-profile targets. Olise’s price and Bayern’s stance make the move difficult, but the rumour carries a clear election angle.

Cuthbert Injury Scare Clouds Scotland’s Israel Rout

Erin Cuthbert, Scotland, Israel, Caroline Weir
5 June 2026

Scotland beat Israel 6-0 in Women’s World Cup qualifying but ended the night waiting on Erin Cuthbert’s injury news. The Chelsea midfielder scored the opener and assisted twice before leaving on a stretcher in clear pain.

Caroline Weir scored a hat-trick as Scotland preserved their goal-difference edge over Belgium at the top of Group B4. Cuthbert’s likely absence could shift more creative responsibility onto Weir before Tuesday’s second Israel qualifying match.

Turkey Punish Northern Ireland After Handball Row

Turkey, Northern Ireland, Busem Seker, Marissa Callaghan
5 June 2026

Turkey beat Northern Ireland 2-1 in Women’s World Cup qualifying after a controversial handball decision helped shape the match. Busem Seker handled Fi Morgan’s goalbound effort on the line but received only a yellow card.

Megan Bell scored the resulting penalty, but Seker later headed in Turkey’s winner from Selen Altunkulak’s cross. Former Northern Ireland captain Marissa Callaghan called the decision madness, arguing the striker should have been sent off.

Glasner Moves Ahead in Milan Manager Race

Oliver Glasner, AC Milan, Mauricio Pochettino
5 June 2026

Oliver Glasner reportedly has the edge over Mauricio Pochettino in AC Milan’s search for a new manager. Milan are still rebuilding their football structure after Massimiliano Allegri’s exit and a disappointing season outside the Champions League.

Glasner’s Conference League success with Crystal Palace has strengthened his profile, while Pochettino remains tied to USMNT World Cup duties. Milan’s decision will shape their transfer plans and attempt to return quickly to Europe’s elite.

Slot Rejects Fulham Chance After Liverpool Exit

Arne Slot, Fulham, Liverpool, Marco Silva
5 June 2026

Former Liverpool manager Arne Slot has reportedly rejected the chance to become Fulham boss after Marco Silva’s departure. The London club are searching for a new manager, but Slot is not ready to move straight into that role.

Fulham need a replacement after Silva agreed to leave for Benfica, creating a Premier League vacancy. Slot’s rejection removes one high-profile option and could push Fulham toward other candidates, including coaches already linked with the club.

FIFA Cancels Free World Cup Tickets After Website Error

FIFA, World Cup fans
5 June 2026

FIFA cancelled World Cup tickets issued to around 60 fans for free because of a website payment error. The governing body said the affected seats remain reserved, but buyers must now pay the correct amount.

The tickets were wrongly allocated at 0 USD during checkout on 21 May. The mistake adds to ticketing controversy already under investigation in New York and New Jersey, with fans also criticising resale fees and high prices.

City Chairman Vows Full Response After 115-Charge Verdict

Khaldoon Al-Mubarak, Manchester City, Premier League, Sheikh Mansour
5 June 2026

Manchester City chairman Khaldoon Al-Mubarak said he will speak fully about the club’s legal battle with the Premier League once a verdict is delivered. City still await a decision on 115 alleged financial rule breaches.

The independent hearing ended in December 2024, but no ruling has been announced. Khaldoon repeated that City cannot comment in detail during the process and said Sheikh Mansour has no intention of selling the club.

Brentford’s El Mala Deal Collapses After Family Intervention

Said El Mala, Brentford, Cologne
5 June 2026

Brentford’s proposed €50 million move for Cologne winger Said El Mala has reportedly collapsed after the player decided against joining the Premier League club. His mother is said to have influenced the decision to reject the transfer.

Brentford had made a major offer after tracking El Mala as an attacking upgrade, but the player now appears set to stay away from the deal. Cologne keep leverage, while other clubs may re-enter the race.

Kane Minutes Could Be Managed in England Heat Plan

Harry Kane, England, Thomas Tuchel, Bayern Munich
5 June 2026

Harry Kane could have his World Cup group-stage minutes managed as England prepare for demanding heat conditions. Thomas Tuchel selected three specialist centre-forwards, giving him more flexibility to protect his captain before the knockout rounds.

Kane played 51 matches for Bayern last season and remains central to England’s attack. Ollie Watkins and Ivan Toney offer alternatives, especially against Ghana or Panama if Tuchel wants to keep Kane fresher.