FIFA President Gianni Infantino has acknowledged the possibility of expanding the World Cup to 64 teams, a move that could significantly alter the sport's economics and logistics, despite opposition from major confederations like UEFA and AFC.
Lionel Messi has been called up by Argentina for a farewell appearance in a home friendly on October 6 against Benin, following his international retirement. Argentina will play three home friendlies in total, with the squad list also announced.
Arsenal preserved their perfect Premier League start with a hard-fought 2-0 win at Sunderland, despite Arteta's anger over a controversial penalty decision and Raya's crucial save.
East Bengal staged a stunning comeback from 0-1 down to beat Al Arabi SC 4-1 in extra time and seal their place in the AFC Champions League Two group
Kylian Mbappe has asserted his belief that he deserves to win the Ballon d'Or this year, despite not securing any club or international silverware. The French forward highlighted his individual performances, including becoming the World Cup's all-time leading scorer, and praised new France coach Zinedine Zidane.
Anthony Andrews, a highly successful coach in Indian women's football, has been appointed as the assistant coach for the India U17 women's national team. He will continue his dual role with East Bengal FC while preparing the Young Tigresses for the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers.
Chelsea have completed the signing of World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emiliano 'Dibu' Martinez from Aston Villa on a three-year deal, strengthening their squad ahead of the new season.
Chelsea, under new manager Xabi Alonso, has shown renewed attacking vigour with two Premier League wins and a League Cup victory, highlighted by a 4-3 win over Brighton, but defensive vulnerabilities persist, with the team failing to keep a clean sheet in 18 league games. The arrival of World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emi Martinez is expected to bolster the backline.
Pro Ref chief Howard Webb confirmed that VAR officials Matt Donohue and Blake Antrobus were stood down after 'tunnel vision' led to the incorrect awarding of Erling Haaland's goal in the Manchester derby, acknowledging the error to Manchester United.
Prince William and Kate have launched a sports-led suicide prevention initiative, urging organisations across Britain to foster open conversations, recognise warning signs and make support accessible.
Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, has announced his retirement from international football, concluding a career marked by numerous club and international accolades, including multiple Ballon d'Or awards and a World Cup title.
Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes has been named the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) Player of the Year for the 2025-26 season, having set a Premier League record with 21 assists and scored nine goals. Manchester City's Khadija Shaw secured the Women's Player of the Year award, while Nico O'Reilly and Olivia Smith were recognised as Young Players of the Year.
Brazil has announced a 26-member squad, featuring stars like Vinicius Junior, Raphinha, and Marquinhos, for their historic first-ever football match against India on October 3 in Kolkata. Coach Carlo Ancelotti is overseeing a significant rebuild, integrating young talent with experienced players, with an eye on future tournaments like the 2028 Olympics and 2030 World Cup. The squad includes several debutants and a focus on current form, marking a new strategic direction for the Selecao.
East Bengal FC emerged victorious in the Indian Super League, securing their first-ever title after a 22-year drought, defeating Inter Kashi 2-1 in a thrilling encounter.
Anthony Andrews, the highly successful coach of East Bengal FC, has been appointed as the assistant coach for the India Under-17 women's national team. He joins the team in Tashkent for friendly matches ahead of the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers, bringing his extensive experience and winning record, including four IWL titles and continental success with East Bengal.
Former Barcelona star Xavi Hernandez has been appointed as the new coach of the Netherlands national football team, signing a four-year deal. He has pledged to implement an attractive, dominant style of play while instilling a strong desire to win. Xavi aims to build a cohesive team from talented players and is ready to face the pressure of his new role, starting with a Nations League match against Germany.
Southampton have been expelled from the Championship play-offs after being found guilty of spying on opponents. Middlesbrough have been reinstated and will face Hull City in the final.
Aizawl FC secured their first victory of the Indian Football League 2025-26 season by defeating Rajasthan United FC 3-1. Zomuasanga opened the scoring, followed by goals from Vincent Lalduhawma and Lalhriatpuia, while Pedro Astray scored for Rajasthan United. Gokulam Kerala FC and Chanmari FC are set to play their respective matches on Saturday.
Five SC Cambuur fans suffered burns, hearing damage, and eye injuries after visiting Feyenoord supporters threw fireworks during a Dutch league match, leading to a halted game and a promised investigation.
Erling Haaland stunned fans by replacing his trademark flowing blonde locks with a buzz cut, sparking playful reactions from Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Pep Guardiola before Manchester City's opener.
England football icon David Beckham has paid tribute to Lionel Messi, calling him a 'credit to himself' and an 'inspiration for millions' after the Argentina legend announced his retirement from international football.
Punjab FC has announced the signing of Mohammed Inam, a talented footballer from Jammu and Kashmir, on a two-year contract. Inam, who previously captained Real Kashmir FC, brings experience from the Indian Football League, I-League qualifiers, and the Durand Cup to his new club.
Lionel Messi has made the 2026 Ballon d'Or shortlist after another prolific season, while five-time winner Cristiano Ronaldo was omitted despite helping Al-Nassr secure the Saudi Pro League title.
Diamond Harbour FC defeated Real Kashmir FC 2-1 in an Indian Football League match, with goals from Hugo Diaz and Sunday Kolawole.
Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya met with Indian men's and women's hockey teams and officials to review their recent World Cup performance. He urged them to move past the disappointment, identify shortcomings, and focus on the upcoming Asian Games to secure qualification for the Los Angeles Olympics. The minister also discussed the future of the Hockey India League.
Delhi Football Club and FC Bengaluru United have secured promotion to the I-League after drawing their respective matches in the I-League 2. Delhi FC drew 1-1 with United SC, while FC Bengaluru United also drew 1-1 with GMSC, Mumbai.
Zlatko Dalic, former Croatia manager, has been appointed as the new head coach of the United Arab Emirates national football team. He previously led Croatia to a World Cup final and returns to the UAE where he won a league title with Al Ain.
Middlesbrough are demanding that Southampton be kicked out of the Championship playoff final after accusing their rivals of secretly filming their training session before their playoff semi-final.
Despite Pakistan not qualifying for the FIFA World Cup, Karachi is buzzing with excitement as the global event begins. "WC Football" villages have been set up in areas like Malir and Lyari, known for their love of the sport, featuring large screens, decorations, and enthusiastic fans. The city's passion for football is evident, with local clubs and administration organising events for youngsters, highlighting the sport's growing influence beyond cricket.
The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has imposed a national ban on Churchill Brothers FC Goa for player registration, following a directive from the FIFA Disciplinary Committee due to unpaid dues to English forward Kurtis Owen Guthrie. The Goan club, however, claims the matter has been resolved with full payment made and a request sent to FIFA to lift the ban.
Manchester City enter a challenging post-Guardiola era, with Enzo Maresca tasked with preserving their dominance, managing squad changes and meeting immense expectations in a fiercely competitive Premier League.
A goal scored under soccer's experimental 'daylight' offside rule was allowed for the first time in a professional match in the Canadian Premier League.
Scottish striker Lee Harry Erwin has signed a one-year contract with Indian football club Mohun Bagan, bringing his experience from European and Asian clubs to bolster the team's attacking options.
Aizawl FC displayed spirited performance to hold Sreenidi Deccan FC to a 1-1 draw in an Indian Football League match.
Indian women's football team veteran Grace Dangmei has announced her international retirement following the team's SAFF Championships victory. The 30-year-old forward, who represented India 95 times, concluded her nearly 15-year career with a third SAFF title, having also played for top Indian and Uzbek clubs.
Argentine footballers Lautaro Martinez, Leandro Paredes, Emiliano Martinez, and Alexis Mac Allister have paid emotional tributes to Lionel Messi following his announcement to retire from international football, reflecting on his profound impact on their careers and the national team.
Jamshedpur FC's withdrawal from the Indian Super League was a pre-planned strategic decision to refocus on grassroots football development, independent of the league's commercial uncertainties, according to Tata Steel Vice President D B Sundara Raman.
Former India captain Sunil Chhetri has publicly appealed to the Tata Group to reverse its decision to withdraw Indian Super League club Jamshedpur FC.
The Premier League once again led the global transfer market in 2026, with clubs making significant investments in top talent. This summer saw four major signings exceeding 100 million, including Enzo Fernandez to Manchester City, Bradley Barcola to Liverpool, Morgan Rogers to Chelsea, and Elliot Anderson also to Manchester City, highlighting the league's financial power and ambition.
The Premier League launched its NEXTGEN coach programme in Goa, aiming to enhance grassroots football coaching in India through training and skill development for local coaches.
