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A World Cup with no participants – it could be Gianni Infantino’s boldest move yet | Marina Hyde
Marina Hyde argues that Gianni Infantino’s reported plan to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors has provoked unusually broad opposition and could damage Fifa’s standing. Uefa’s 55 member nations have reportedly voted unanimously to boycott Fifa competitions, including World Cups, if the proposal proceeds, raising the prospect of major European teams withdrawing…
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Fifa rapidly accelerates plan to expand World Cup to 64 teams from 2030 tournament
Fifa is rapidly examining an expansion of the men’s World Cup to 64 teams for the 2030 tournament, only months after the 48-team format debuted in 2026. The governing body has commissioned a fast-track assessment of the commercial and sporting effects, suggesting a decision could be made this year; the proposal is likely to deepen…
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Franco Baresi was not only the captain but the moral heart of great Milan team
Franco Baresi is remembered as the captain and moral centre of Arrigo Sacchi’s great Milan side, whose defensive approach transformed Italian football in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The article argues that his intelligence, composure and leadership made him the defining centre-back of his era, rather than simply a product of Italy’s traditional defensive…
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Who should win the men’s Ballon d’Or?
Harry Kane, Lamine Yamal and Rodri are presented as leading contenders for the men’s Ballon d’Or, with Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi also named among the frontrunners. The article argues that each has a compelling case based on exceptional individual output and major team achievements, illustrating how the award debate extends beyond goals to influence,…
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Uefa has formed a rare but fragile united front against Fifa in battle for football’s future | Nick Ames and Matt Hughes
Uefa’s 55 member associations have united to threaten a boycott of Fifa tournaments unless Gianni Infantino abandons plans for private investment in the World Cup. The unusually broad agreement strengthens Uefa president Aleksander Ceferin’s position, but remains fragile as Fifa is expected to pressure individual associations before its September deadline. Fifa has issued “clarifications” while…
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Senior Fifa adviser resigns over proposed World Cup stake sale
Carlos Cordeiro, a senior adviser to Gianni Infantino, has resigned immediately in protest at Fifa’s proposal to sell a permanent stake in the World Cup. His departure deepens pressure on Infantino, whose plans face growing international opposition and renewed calls for an urgent review of Fifa’s governance. Cordeiro said Fifa’s debt-free reserves mean it can…
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Can We Kick It?: new doc is timely take on Black history, pay-to-play and future of US soccer
Can We Kick It?, directed by Akbar Majeed, examines why football has struggled to connect with Black American communities despite their long-standing role in the sport’s history. The documentary is especially timely after the United States’ disappointing 2026 World Cup exit, which Majeed believes risked reinforcing scepticism about the game at a moment of unprecedented…
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Asian Football Confederation opposes Fifa minority-stake proposal
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said Gianni Infantino is “the wrong man” to lead Fifa, following mounting opposition to proposals to sell minority stakes in football competitions to private investors. The Asian Football Confederation has joined Uefa and Concacaf in opposing the plan, arguing it could undermine the World Cup’s unity and universal character. The…
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Football transfer rumours: Guimarães to Arsenal? Newcastle to bring in Froholdt?
Newcastle United face significant uncertainty after Eddie Howe’s departure, with reports suggesting Arsenal are closing in on midfielder Bruno Guimarães. The potential loss of several key players has intensified scrutiny of Newcastle’s rebuilding plans and possible managerial appointment, while other Premier League clubs are also being linked with transfer moves. Arsenal are reportedly pursuing Guimarães…