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The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has reversed its controversial plan to stage the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) every four years, restoring the tournament’s traditional biennial format in a major policy U-turn.

The decision, unanimously adopted by the CAF Executive Committee (EXCO), effectively scraps the proposed four-year cycle and reaffirms AFCON’s place as a biennial flagship competition on the African football calendar.

CAF President Patrice Motsepe said the reversal was driven by the need to protect African football, safeguard the financial interests of the continent’s 54 member associations and ensure continued opportunities for African players, particularly those playing for clubs outside the continent.

Motsepe had announced at CAF’s Strategy Conference in Cabo Verde, held from October 7 to 9, 2026, that the governing body would reconsider its earlier decision to move AFCON to a four-year schedule.

The proposed change was linked to plans to introduce an Africa Nations League, which was expected to generate revenue and provide football development opportunities comparable to those of AFCON.

However, concerns emerged that the new competition could take several years to become financially sustainable, potentially leaving CAF and its member associations without the revenue streams needed to support football development across the continent.

Explaining the decision, Motsepe said the priority was to advance and protect the interests of African football and its stakeholders.

“The decision by the CAF EXCO that the CAF AFCON should take place every Two Years was based on advancing, protecting and promoting the interest of African Football and CAF’s 54 Member Associations, as well as the interest of African players employed by Football Clubs outside Africa,” he said.

Under the revised calendar, the next edition will take place in 2027, jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. Subsequent tournaments are scheduled for 2028, 2031 and 2033.

The 2030 edition has been dropped to avoid a clash with the FIFA World Cup scheduled for the same year. Motsepe explained that CAF would not organise its senior national team competitions during a World Cup year, in line with the international football calendar.

The CAF president expressed confidence that the 2027 tournament would be a success, describing AFCON as more than a football competition.

According to him, the tournament remains one of Africa’s biggest platforms for showcasing the continent’s cultural diversity, uniting its 54 nations and strengthening connections with the African diaspora and the rest of the world.

The reversal marks a significant shift in CAF's competition strategy and underscores the financial and organisational importance of AFCON to African football.

For now, the biennial tournament is back, ending uncertainty over its future format and reaffirming its position as the centrepiece of African international football.

Nigeria’s football leadership faces a major shake-up as FIFA moves to reset the NFF, bars committee members from contesting elections and sets May 31, 2027, as the final deadline for its intervention.

World football governing body FIFA has approved the establishment of a Normalisation Committee to take charge of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), paving the way for a sweeping reset of the country’s troubled football administration.

The decision marks a significant turning point in the unfolding crisis at the NFF, with the committee expected to oversee the federation’s affairs until fresh elections are conducted into its Executive Committee.

The NFF disclosed the development in a statement, citing a letter signed by FIFA Secretary-General Mattias Grafström and addressed to Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme.

Under the arrangement, FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) will jointly appoint the committee members as soon as possible.

The committee will remain in office until it completes its mandate, with its tenure capped at May 31, 2027.

In a clear move to separate the normalisation process from the race for power, FIFA has ruled that none of the committee members will be eligible to contest any position in the forthcoming NFF elections.

Until the appointments are finalised, the NFF Secretariat will continue to manage the federation’s daily operations and oversee the administration of Nigerian football.

RESIGNATIONS TRIGGER ADMINISTRATIVE SHAKE-UP

FIFA’s intervention follows a turbulent period in Nigerian football administration, which took a dramatic turn in August when former NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi and members of the federation’s Executive Committee resigned.

The departures threw the federation’s leadership structure into uncertainty and prompted fresh steps to stabilise its operations.

The National Sports Commission subsequently approved Emmanuel Ikpeme as interim General Secretary and Ademola Olajire as interim Deputy General Secretary, while the planned NFF elective congress was suspended pending reforms.

TINUBU ORDERS REFORMS

The developments also followed President Bola Tinubu’s directive for a comprehensive reform of Nigerian football.

The National Sports Commission was tasked with working alongside the NFF and engaging FIFA and CAF to drive the reform process.

With FIFA’s approval now in place, attention shifts to the appointment of the Normalisation Committee, the implementation of its mandate and the eventual conduct of fresh elections.

For Nigerian football, the coming months could prove decisive as the federation enters a new phase of administration under international oversight, with the May 31, 2027 deadline setting an outer limit for the normalisation process.

Mikel Arteta has defended Arsenal’s wider efforts to improve the club’s operations after being briefed on plans to reduce the workforce by as much as seven per cent.

Chief executive Richard Garlick informed employees this week that the club intended to eliminate a number of positions across several departments. The proposed changes could affect up to 61 of Arsenal’s 871 permanent employees, with the reductions focused on non-playing and administrative roles.

The club has confirmed that coaching and performance teams across both the men’s and women’s sides will not be affected. Staff working for the Arsenal Foundation, Arsenal in the Community and the club’s security department are also excluded from the plans.

Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s visit to Nottingham Forest on Sunday, Arteta said he had been given an explanation of the review and its objectives. The Spaniard initially stressed that he was not the appropriate person to discuss the details before outlining his understanding of the decision.

He explained that the process was designed to help the club develop, improve its structure and ensure resources were directed towards the right areas.

According to Arteta, the changes are intended to place employees in suitable positions while allowing Arsenal to continue investing in their long-term ambitions.

However, he emphasised that questions about the redundancies should be directed to the club’s leadership rather than himself, asking for his position on the matter to be respected.

The restructuring comes shortly after Arteta signed a new four-year contract, following Arsenal’s first Premier League title triumph since 2004. His previous annual salary of £10 million was increased under the new agreement, which also includes a further £5 million in potential bonuses.

The workforce review had reportedly begun before Arsenal secured the league title, indicating that the proposed changes were part of a process already underway rather than a response to the club’s on-field success.

Arsenal’s latest financial figures provide further context for the decision. In February, the club reported record revenue of £691 million for the 2024-25 financial year. Despite that income, the accounts showed an overall loss of £1.4 million.

Operating expenditure also increased significantly, reaching £200.8 million compared with £147.9 million in the previous financial year.

While the club continues to generate substantial revenue, the planned job reductions highlight its efforts to review costs, reorganise its workforce and direct investment towards its future objectives.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cristiano Ronaldo has been provisionally suspended by the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) as authorities investigate his departure from Portugal’s national team training camp in September.

The FPF’s Disciplinary Council confirmed the development in a statement reported by Portuguese public broadcaster RTP on Saturday, October 10, 2026.

According to the statement, disciplinary proceedings were initiated on October 9 following reports received by the council on October 7 concerning the circumstances surrounding the forward’s departure.

The council also imposed a provisional suspension on the Portugal captain. The federation described the measure as a “non-automatic provisional suspension,” indicating that the matter remains subject to further disciplinary review.

The case was subsequently referred to the FPF’s Disciplinary Investigation Commission on October 10 and designated as urgent. The federation added that information relating to the proceedings would remain confidential until the investigation had been concluded.

Portuguese sports broadcaster SPORT TV also reported the decision, citing the federation’s disciplinary statement.

 Ronaldo Apologises for Leaving Training Camp

Ronaldo’s suspension follows an incident on September 30, when he reportedly left Portugal’s training camp in Copenhagen amid a disagreement with head coach Jorge Jesus over his role within the team.

In a report published on October 6, beIN SPORTS said the 41-year-old forward had apologised for his decision to leave the camp and acknowledged that he could face disciplinary consequences.

“I should not have done it. The responsibility is exclusively mine,” Ronaldo said in a statement quoted by the broadcaster.

The Portugal captain also reportedly apologised to his teammates, accepting responsibility for his actions and indicating that he would respect any punishment handed down by the football authorities.

Despite the controversy, Ronaldo has no intention of ending his international career. According to beIN SPORTS, he has expressed his willingness to return to the national team once any suspension has been served. RTP also reported that the forward remained open to rejoining the Portugal squad.

 Final Disciplinary Decision Still Pending

The FPF’s latest action represents a provisional measure rather than a final ruling on the case. The ongoing investigation is expected to examine the circumstances surrounding Ronaldo’s departure and determine whether further disciplinary sanctions are warranted.

For now, the federation has not disclosed what additional punishment, if any, the forward could face. Details of the investigation will remain confidential until the proceedings are completed.

Ronaldo’s future involvement with Portugal will therefore depend, in part, on the outcome of the disciplinary process and any sanctions ultimately imposed by the federation.

Pep Guardiola has reaffirmed his loyalty to Manchester City following the club’s guilty verdict over alleged breaches of the Premier League’s financial regulations.

The former City manager said he would continue to stand behind the club’s owners, executives, players, staff and supporters, despite an independent commission finding the club guilty of breaching financial rules covering several seasons.

In a message to City supporters, Guardiola said he wanted fans around the world to know that he remained firmly behind the club.

“I am, always have been, always will be, behind my club,” he said, also expressing his support for the ownership, chairman, players, staff, manager and supporters.

“Let me be clear: we will get through this together. I love you all.”

The independent commission found Manchester City guilty of charges relating to financial breaches between the 2009-10 and 2017-18 seasons. The club was also found guilty on all but one of the charges concerning its alleged failure to cooperate with the Premier League’s investigation.

Among the commission’s findings were allegations involving commercial agreements that the Premier League described as “sham contracts”, with more than £830m in secret funding alleged to have been disguised through those arrangements.

Manchester City has consistently denied wrongdoing and rejected the commission’s conclusions. The club said it was “disappointed and surprised” by the verdict and remains confident that it can overturn the findings through the appeal process.

Guardiola, who managed City from 2016 until his departure last summer, had previously made clear that the charges would not automatically change his commitment to the club. In November 2024, he said he would remain with City even if the club were relegated as a result of the case.

During his time in charge, Guardiola guided City to six Premier League championships, including four consecutive titles, as well as the Champions League, three FA Cups and five League Cups.

Richards: Verdict has been difficult to accept

Former City defender Micah Richards has also spoken about the emotional impact of the verdict.

Richards, who joined City's academy as a teenager and spent much of his career at the club, said he was deeply upset after reading the commission's findings.

He highlighted the language used in the report, particularly the reference to “sham contracts”, and said the situation had been painful for both former players and supporters.

Richards recalled receiving a call from the family he lived with during his early years at the club. The family had supported Manchester City for decades, and he said the uncertainty surrounding the case had left them extremely distressed.

“I haven't got the answers to tell him,” Richards said, explaining that he could not provide the information the supporter was looking for.

Richards acknowledged that City's own response to the verdict presents a different version of events.

He said he felt “saddened”, “angry” and “confused” because supporters were being confronted with the commission's findings while also hearing City's argument that the club had been wrongly judged.

Carragher calls for titles to be reconsidered

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher offered a more critical response to the verdict.

Speaking on Sky Sports News and The Rest Is Football podcast, Carragher said he believed the controversy could affect how City's achievements are viewed, particularly by the players who were involved during the period covered by the investigation.

He argued that City players had been relying on assurances from the club's leadership and could now feel that their achievements had been undermined.

Carragher also questioned whether titles won during the period covered by the charges should remain in City's record. He distinguished between removing honours from City's history and deciding whether those championships should subsequently be awarded to other clubs.

His comments also focused on the emotional significance of trophies for players, rather than simply the physical medals themselves.

The 2013-14 Premier League title was particularly significant in that context. Manchester City finished two points ahead of Liverpool, denying Steven Gerrard and his team-mates their closest opportunity to win the Premier League during Gerrard's career.

For City, however, the legal process is not necessarily over. The club has continued to reject the allegations and has until 2 October to submit an appeal against the commission's findings.

The case therefore remains unresolved from the club's perspective, with Manchester City maintaining that it can demonstrate its innocence despite the commission's verdict.

If the reported findings against Manchester City are ultimately upheld, English football will face a reckoning that goes far beyond points, fines or even trophies.

The reported conclusion that City have been found guilty of 114 of 115 Premier League financial-rule charges represents one of the most consequential moments in the history of the competition.

But this is not yet the end of the story.The sanctions have not been announced. The full reasoning behind the findings has not been made public. Manchester City are expected to appeal.

Those distinctions matter. Yet if the findings survive the appeals process, football will have to confront a question that reaches to the heart of the modern game:

Can a competition claim to have meaningful financial rules if breaches of those rules can take years to resolve and consequences arrive long after the sporting contests themselves have been decided? That is the real issue.

 The question of competitive integrity

Manchester City have become one of the defining forces of English football. During the period covered by the allegations, the club won multiple Premier League titles and established itself among the elite of European football.

If the reported findings are ultimately upheld, the debate will inevitably move beyond the technical details of individual regulations. It will become a question of competitive integrity.

That does not mean every City victory should automatically be erased, every trophy removed or every match rewritten. Football does not work that simply.But rival supporters and clubs are entitled to ask a basic question: what are financial regulations actually worth if breaking them carries consequences only years after the competitive advantage may already have been gained? The answer will depend heavily on what punishment follows.

 The punishment could reshape English football

The Premier League has a range of disciplinary powers available in serious cases, including financial penalties, points deductions, suspension and, in the most extreme circumstances, expulsion.

A points deduction would have an obvious sporting impact.Relegation or expulsion would be something else entirely. The consequences could spread through almost every part of the club's operation: broadcasting income, sponsorships, player contracts, recruitment, European qualification and the ability to retain a squad assembled to compete at the highest level.

And the effects would not necessarily stop at Manchester City. A major punishment could alter league positions, European places and financial distributions, potentially creating consequences for clubs that had nothing to do with the original allegations.

But it would be wrong to treat any particular punishment as inevitable.The sanction has yet to be announced, and the appeal process remains an essential part of the case.The reported findings are a major development. They are not necessarily the final word.

 Then comes the compensation question

There is another potential battle waiting beyond the disciplinary process: compensation. If other clubs believe they suffered financial losses because of Manchester City's alleged breaches, they could potentially seek damages through separate legal or regulatory channels.

That would take the dispute into much more complicated territory. It is one thing to establish that a rule was broken. It is another to demonstrate that a particular club suffered a specific financial loss because of that breach and then establish what that loss was worth.

The arguments could involve league positions, prize money, European qualification, commercial opportunities and other sporting consequences.Whether such claims ultimately succeed is impossible to say at this stage.But the fact that the possibility exists illustrates the extraordinary reach of this case.

## And what happens to the trophies?

This is where emotion is likely to overwhelm reason. If the findings are upheld, there will inevitably be calls for Manchester City's titles to be stripped and historical records rewritten.But a disciplinary case cannot simply be settled by public outrage.

There is a crucial distinction between punishing a club for regulatory breaches and retrospectively declaring that individual matches or entire competitions never counted.Any decision about titles, points or historical records must have a clear legal and regulatory foundation.That principle cuts both ways.

Manchester City must have the right to challenge the findings through the established appeal process. Equally, if the findings survive that process, the Premier League must enforce its regulations consistently and transparently. The credibility of the system depends on both principles.

 The bigger failure may be the length of the process

Perhaps the most uncomfortable question is not about Manchester City at all. It is about the system itself.

The allegations were investigated over a period of years. Charges were brought in 2023. The independent hearing concluded in 2024. The reported verdict has now emerged in 2026.That is an extraordinary length of time for a sporting disciplinary case.

Football can accept complex investigations. What becomes harder to defend is a system in which the consequences of alleged wrongdoing may remain unknown for years while the competition continues around them.

Players change.Managers leave.Squads are rebuilt.Trophies are won.Relegations and promotions take place. And yet the central question remains unresolved.

Rules cannot fully protect competitive integrity if enforcement moves at a pace that allows several seasons to pass before accountability arrives.That is why this is bigger than Manchester City.It is a test of football governance itself.

The hardest punishment may not be financial

There is also a consequence that no commission can easily quantify. Reputation.Even if Manchester City succeed in reducing or overturning some findings on appeal, the controversy surrounding this period of the club's history will not simply disappear.

And if the reported findings are ultimately upheld, every future discussion of Manchester City's extraordinary modern success will inevitably be accompanied by questions about the financial-rule case.

That does not erase the football played on the pitch.It does, however, change the context in which that history is remembered.

A fine can be paid.Points can be deducted.A season eventually ends. But questions about the legitimacy of an era can survive for generations.

The final judgment must come from the final judgment

For now, caution remains essential. There is a fundamental difference between reported findings, the commission's detailed reasoning, the eventual punishment and the outcome of an appeal.

Those stages should not be collapsed into one.Manchester City have denied the allegations and have the right to challenge the findings through the proper process.

Football should therefore resist the temptation to write the final chapter before the final judgment exists.But it should also recognise the scale of what is at stake.

If 114 of the 115 reported charges are ultimately upheld, this will not simply be a story about whether Manchester City lose points or trophies.It will be a test of whether English football's financial rules possess enough authority to protect the competition they were designed to regulate. Because ultimately, this is not just about Manchester City.

It is about every club that follows the rules, every player who competes under them and every supporter who believes that the outcome of a football match should be decided on the pitch — within a system in which the same rules apply to everyone.

The punishment will matter. The appeal will matter. The trophies will matter.But the biggest question will be whether, when this extraordinary case is finally over, anyone still believes the rules mean what they say.

 

 

Mauricio Pochettino has delivered a stunning verdict on Chelsea’s 2016–17 Premier League triumph: strip them of the title and hand it to Tottenham.

Pochettino’s Tottenham side finished runners-up that season with a club-record 86 points, just seven behind Antonio Conte’s Chelsea, who lifted the trophy after an extraordinary 30-win campaign and 93 points.

But Chelsea’s title-winning season has been dragged back into the spotlight after the Premier League fined the club £10.75 million for historical breaches involving undisclosed payments and transfer-related reporting between 2011 and 2018.

The cases included deals involving stars such as Eden Hazard, Willian, David Luiz and Nemanja Matić.

For Pochettino, that punishment does not go far enough.

“We should win one Premier League. We should have been awarded it.”

The former Tottenham boss, who later managed Chelsea during the 2023–24 season, insists Spurs were not competing on a level playing field.

“We didn’t compete before the start of the season with the same card.”

Pochettino believes Tottenham could have strengthened their squad had they operated under the same circumstances — potentially changing the outcome of the title race.

“Maybe with the same rules, we could’ve signed some players that would have made the team better or scored more goals.”

He was careful not to diminish Chelsea’s performances under Conte, acknowledging that they were an excellent side.

But his message was blunt: if the rules were broken, there should be consequences for the title.

“If you broke the rules, then ‘ciao’ — you need to give it to another team.”

And Pochettino says he would apply exactly the same standard to Tottenham.

“If we were at Tottenham and broke the rules, I’d admit the same: We don’t deserve the title because we broke the rules.”

Tottenham’s 2016–17 campaign remains their best-ever Premier League finish. Spurs won 26 games, lost just four and amassed 86 points — yet still finished behind Chelsea.

Despite Pochettino’s explosive call, however, Chelsea remain the officially recognised 2016–17 Premier League champions. No retrospective title change or points deduction has been imposed following the Premier League’s findings.

For now, the trophy remains at Stamford Bridge.

But Pochettino has made his position crystal clear: if Chelsea broke the rules, he believes Spurs should have the crown.

There is the prospect of a genuine sports revolution in the air. There is a refreshing spirit across the land. There are glimpses of a new dawn for the entire sports sector through the developments in football.

Beyond sport, there are also emerging, the faint outlines of a new nation from 2027. Things are coming together. Things are falling into places and fitting in like a jig saw puzzle.


Even the Universe is involved in the evolving ‘conspiracy’. Otherwise, who can explain the spate of coincidences of developments in Nigerian sports?

Presidential support

It was all kick-started by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He directed that proper sports reforms take place. And he backed his directive with the money to get it done.

Such level of presidential interest has not been seen since the era of late Admiral Augustus Aikhomu.

The president means business, and everyone knows it.

The NSC – getting things done!

The National Sports Commission, NSC, bosses have been very busy, demonstrating proficiency in managing the crisis-situation in Nigerian football and maneuvering through the maze of difficult issues. They dealt with the disbandment of the board of the NFF masterfully. It went without any outcry, or resultant crisis.

They led a delegation to the headquarters of FIFA and came back with a bouquet of flowers (that I hope are not coated with hidden poisons)from the embattled president of FIFA. I hope they now have the clearance to carry out the needed reforms in Nigerian football without involving the Congress of the NFF. That organ should have been dismantled as well, and without the threat of any sanction for ‘Third-Party interference’ hanging on our necks.

The NSC, I hope, are now set to advance matters to the next level – setting up a body of credible, neutral, and knowledgeable persons to dismantle the old failed system and to create new instruments for genuine football development in the best interest of the country.

A few days before that, Dr. Allen Onyema, Chairman of AirPeace Airline, had approved that the ‘file’ of the Olympic Gold Medalists of 1996 be dusted, and that the names of the heroes be uplifted again and inscribed in Gold on the ‘NIIA Sports Diplomacy Wall of Fame’ at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs in Lagos.

The induction ceremony will be held in October/November, 2026, a year that marks the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Olympic Games Boycott led by Nigeria, as well as the 30th anniversary of Nigeria’s greatest moment in sport, the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games.

Two of Nigeria’s great sports ambassadors will also be decorated on the day – late captain and manager of the Super Eagles, Stephen Okechukwu Keshi; plus the only world record breaker in Nigeria’s athletics history, Tobi Amusan(even as her record has been broken by America’s Olympic champion Masai Russel).


Governor Uba Sani – a new titan

Then, last week, came the bombshell. In my humble reckoning, the best news of the year came from Kaduna.

The Governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani, CON, has joined Allen Onyema to fan the embers of the ‘Dream Team’, Nigeria’s victorious Olympic football team of 1996. Following that success, the Governor of Kaduna State at the time rewarded the players and their officials with plots of land in Kaduna. For some reason, the deed was not completed. The parcels of land were not documented and handed over the players.

30 years after, Governor Uba Sani has awakened ‘dead bones’, dusted the long-buried files, completed the process and redeemed the State government’s promise.

There was more great development

The state government was handed back the ownership of Ahmadu Bello Stadium, a heritage site that was built and opened in 1964 by the government of Northern Nigeria under Sir Ahmadu Bello. The stadium has deep historical significance to Northern Nigeria . It was taken over by the federal government for renovation for the Nigeria ‘99 FIFA Under-17 championship.

To have taken over all the State stadia became the worst decision ever. Some administrators in charge at the time, not versed in sports matters, ignorantly destroyed all major sports infrastructure in the country. Nigeria has not recovered from that misadventure and financial brigandage since then.

The Ahmadu Bello stadium, Kaduna, the Liberty Stadium, Ibadan, and the Township Stadium, Calabar, had some of the best football facilities in Africa. Their ‘renovation’ became their destruction by some Nigerian and Israeli contractors.

Governor Uba Sani has come to spearhead a redemption of those monuments. The Governors of Oyo and Cross Rivers States should follow Uba Sani’s lead, secure the release of the two other State stadia from the NSC and rebuild them for the sake of posterity and for the coming reformation of sports in Nigeria.

By Segun Odegbami

The Premier League has gone transfer-mad.

English clubs have smashed the summer spending record for the second year running, pouring a staggering £3.410bn into the transfer market.

And the message to the rest of Europe is clear: the Premier League has money — and plenty of it.

Last summer’s record of £3.14bn has already been blown away.

Then came deadline day.

Manchester City paid an initial £60m for Iliman Ndiaye, pushing the total beyond the previous record.

And that still wasn’t the end.

Soon after the window slammed shut, City confirmed another blockbuster: £125m for Enzo Fernández from Chelsea, matching the British transfer record.

Three of the 10 most expensive transfers in football history have now been completed this summer — and every one involved a Premier League club.

Chelsea paid £117m for Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa.

Manchester City spent £116m on Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest.

Liverpool committed an initial £106m for Bradley Barcola, with the deal potentially rising to £123m.

The numbers are staggering.

Just five years ago, Premier League clubs spent £1.13bn in an entire summer.

Now they are spending almost three times that amount.

England is buying England

Perhaps the most remarkable part of the spending spree is where the money is going.

Increasingly, Premier League clubs are buying from each other.

Around 35% of transfer-fee deals this summer have been completed between Premier League clubs, up from 30% last year.

Add deals involving clubs lower down the English pyramid and that figure rises to 44%.

Tottenham paid up to £100m for Sandro Tonali.

They also spent £85m on Mateus Fernandes and potentially £85m on Savio.

Arsenal paid £75m for Bruno Guimarães.

Manchester United spent £70m on Carlos Baleba.

The Premier League is becoming its own transfer marketplace.

Europe struggles to keep up

The financial gap is becoming impossible to ignore.

Premier League clubs have maintained a net spend of more than £1bn, comfortably ahead of Europe's other major leagues.

And even when English clubs sell, much of the money simply stays in England.

Newly promoted Ipswich Town have spent more on players than European heavyweights such as Barcelona, AC Milan, Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain.

That tells you everything about the scale of the Premier League's financial muscle.

Why leave England to shop abroad?

There is a simple reason many clubs are increasingly looking closer to home:

certainty.

A player who has already succeeded in the Premier League is a safer bet than an expensive import who still has to adapt to English football.

Recent big-money signings from abroad have not always delivered, giving clubs another reason to target proven Premier League performers.

There is also a darker side to the boom.

Foreign clubs know exactly how much money Premier League sides have — and that can push asking prices higher.

So English clubs are often choosing to spend huge sums on players they already know, rather than gamble on talent from overseas.

The result?

Record spending. Record fees. Record power.

The Premier League isn't just dominating English football.

It is reshaping the global transfer market — one £100m deal at a time.

FIFA has imposed lengthy suspensions on Argentina internationals Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina following incidents that occurred after Argentina’s 1–0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final.

Paredes has been suspended for 10 matches for his involvement in confrontations with Spain players after the final whistle. Molina has received a seven-match ban after being found to have played a role in the post-match altercations, including an alleged incident involving Spain captain Rodri.

FIFA’s disciplinary proceedings examined multiple allegations against both players. Paredes faced three assault charges, while Molina was investigated for two alleged assaults as well as an additional charge of unsporting behaviour.

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has also been punished. FIFA has issued the federation a $321,000 (£243,000) fine for a number of disciplinary violations, including discriminatory chants and gestures by supporters, misconduct by members of the team and the use of a sporting event for political or other non-sporting demonstrations.

Argentina will additionally face restrictions on spectators at its next two home matches. However, one of those matches will be subject to a suspended sanction.

The AFA was also penalised over a political banner displayed by Argentina players following their 2–1 semi-final victory over England. The banner expressed Argentina’s claim to sovereignty over the Falkland Islands, which Argentina refers to as the Islas Malvinas. FIFA determined that the display could violate its regulations prohibiting the use of football events for non-sporting demonstrations.

The disciplinary measures bring an end to FIFA’s investigation into the controversial scenes surrounding Argentina’s World Cup campaign. Spain ultimately claimed the title after defeating Argentina 1–0 following extra time in the final.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodríguez have chosen to celebrate their marriage in a way that reflects what matters most to them: family, privacy and the life they have built together.

Rather than hosting a lavish ceremony, the couple exchanged their vows in the living room of their home in Cascais, Portugal. For Rodríguez, the decision was deeply personal and very different from the wedding she once imagined as a child.

Growing up, she dreamed of a fairytale celebration, complete with a magnificent castle, a grand carriage, a dramatic wedding dress and a diamond-covered crown. But over the years, her idea of the perfect wedding changed.

Today, Rodríguez says she values an intimate celebration surrounded by her partner and their children far more than an extravagant event.

The choice of their living room also carried special meaning. It is a place where the family spends time together and creates everyday memories. Rodríguez hopes that their children will one day look back and remember that their parents made one of the most important promises of their lives in a place that was already part of their family story.

For a couple accustomed to luxury, the decision was not about what they could afford. With beautiful homes, expensive cars, horses and countless extraordinary experiences already part of their lives, Rodríguez felt that another grand display would not necessarily make the occasion more special.

Instead, they chose something simple and personal.

Their living room became the setting for a milestone they wanted their children to remember—not for its extravagance, but because it was the place where their family shared an unforgettable moment together.

Manchester City have reportedly been found guilty of 114 of the 115 Premier League charges relating to alleged financial breaches between 2009 and 2018.

The findings follow a lengthy independent hearing into the club’s financial affairs. The allegations include claims that City failed to provide accurate financial information and did not properly disclose certain payments involving players and coaches.

Manchester City have consistently denied the allegations.

No sanction has been announced following the reported findings, and the club is expected to appeal.

The case could have significant consequences for Manchester City, who have enjoyed an unprecedented period of success since Sheikh Mansour’s takeover in 2008.

During that era, City have won eight Premier League titles, four FA Cups, seven League Cups and one Champions League.

Potential sanctions could include a substantial points deduction or other disciplinary measures. However, the final punishment has yet to be determined, and any appeal could further extend the process.

The latest development therefore represents a major turning point in the long-running case, but the final outcome remains unresolved.

The crisis rocking Nigerian football has taken a dramatic new turn, with FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) set to launch a joint assessment mission in Abuja after insisting that no decision has yet been taken on the unfolding Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) situation.

The development effectively throws the latest claims of an agreement between FIFA, the National Sports Commission (NSC) and other stakeholders into fresh doubt.

In a strongly worded email dated September 7 and addressed to Barrister Emmanuel Ikpeme, FIFA’s Chief Member Associations Officer, Elkhan Mammadov, said FIFA and CAF were still examining the legal, governance, administrative and electoral issues arising from the crisis within the NFF.

“At this stage, FIFA and CAF have not reached any conclusions regarding the matters under review and no determination has been made with respect to any potential next steps,” the message stated.

The position is a significant departure from reports suggesting that FIFA and the NSC delegation led by its Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, and Director-General, Bukola Olopade, had reached an understanding over the proposed football reforms.

FIFA Puts NFF Election on Hold

In what could prove to be the most consequential part of the communication, FIFA asked that the ongoing NFF electoral process be suspended, with no further steps or decisions taken until further notice.

FIFA said the request was necessary to preserve the status quo while it and CAF complete their assessment and consult the various stakeholders.Importantly, however, the football governing body stressed that the suspension should not be interpreted as a ruling on the validity of any position, decision or action taken by any of the parties involved.

In other words, FIFA has frozen the process without yet declaring who is right or wrong.

Ikpeme, Not NSC, Named Key Contact

FIFA also made it clear that Emmanuel Ikpeme, whom it recognises as the NFF's Deputy General Secretary, should remain the primary point of contact between the NFF, FIFA and CAF — rather than the National Sports Commission — until further notice.

That move further underscores the importance FIFA attaches to dealing through the recognised football administration while its investigation continues.

FIFA, CAF Delegation Heading to Abuja

The international football bodies are now preparing for a joint mission to Abuja at the earliest opportunity.

The delegation is expected to meet with representatives of:

The NFF administration;NFF members;The NFF electoral bodies; and The Federal Government, including the National Sports Commission.

The mission, FIFA said, is intended to give both organisations a clearer understanding of the circumstances surrounding the latest developments, hear directly from the various stakeholders and identify issues requiring further examination under the applicable FIFA, CAF and NFF regulations.

No Winner, No Verdict — Yet

The message from Zurich is unmistakable: the matter remains open.

FIFA and CAF have reserved the right to make recommendations or proposals to their respective decision-making bodies after completing their assessment.

Until then, FIFA has warned against assuming what action it will eventually take.

The latest development therefore leaves Nigerian football in a state of suspense, with the electoral process effectively frozen and the next move now resting with FIFA and CAF.

For now, there is no final verdict, no approved reform deal and no clear winner in the escalating battle over the future direction of Nigerian football. FIFA and CAF are coming to Abuja. And before they leave, the full picture of the NFF crisis may finally begin to emerge.

FIFA has accused UEFA of waging a “smear campaign” against president Gianni Infantino as the bitter row over a scrapped $4.2bn investment deal escalates into a legal battle.

UEFA has accused FIFA and Infantino of “criminal mismanagement” over the proposed Fifa Forward Enterprise (FFE), a plan that would have sold a 20% stake in a new FIFA commercial subsidiary to US investment firm Thrive Capital.

But in court filings in the United States, FIFA has hit back, arguing UEFA is seeking documents to support a foreign criminal case that does not exist.

“Rather than participate in that democratic process, UEFA issued a press release - the beginning of a weeks-long smear campaign against FIFA and its leadership,” FIFA said.

The governing body also dismissed UEFA’s legal arguments as suffering from a “fundamental defect” and “legal deficiencies”.

The proposed deal would have seen Thrive Capital, led by venture capitalist Joshua Kushner, invest $4.2bn in the new FIFA entity. The plan was abandoned within days of being publicly revealed in July after triggering fierce opposition across world football.

FIFA had argued that the deal would dramatically increase funding for its 211 member associations, raising payments for the 2027-30 cycle from £5.9m to £14.7m per association.

UEFA claims the deal was struck at an artificially low valuation and alleges FIFA’s World Cup commercial assets were priced at around £15bn without an open auction or independent valuation.

It also alleges that Infantino discussed the concept with Kushner for almost a year before the final terms were agreed and claims the FIFA president failed to properly consult the organisation’s governing bodies.

UEFA has asked a New York court to order the disclosure of documents and testimony from Kushner and his company Thrive, as well as American financier Greg Maffei, a key adviser to the proposed deal.

Neither Kushner nor Maffei is expected to be a defendant, UEFA says, but their evidence could shed light on how the controversial proposal was developed and valued.

FIFA, however, claims UEFA has an ulterior economic motive for opposing the scheme, arguing that giving smaller football nations greater financial resources would strengthen global competition and potentially weaken UEFA’s market dominance.

UEFA has declined to comment, although sources have indicated that its position is simple: if FIFA has nothing to hide, it should release the documents and allow the legal process to move forward.

The row marks a dramatic escalation in UEFA’s opposition to Infantino, who is facing calls to resign from three continental confederations.

Kushner has also expressed regret over becoming involved in the deal, saying the group “failed to appreciate the political dynamics of global football” and would not have participated had it known how the controversy would unfold.

What began as a failed investment proposal has now become a high-stakes battle over FIFA’s finances, governance and Infantino’s leadership.

UEFA is continuing its campaign to find a single candidate capable of challenging Gianni Infantino in next year’s FIFA presidential election, even as it prepares to abandon its threatened boycott of FIFA competitions.

The decision to drop the boycott follows assurances from FIFA that the controversial FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal will not be brought back. The plan, which involved opening FIFA’s commercial interests to private investment, triggered strong opposition across European football and led UEFA’s 55 member associations to consider withdrawing from FIFA tournaments.

UEFA is expected to formally communicate the decision to its member associations and FIFA Council representatives following its executive committee meeting in Monaco. The move will allow European teams to take part in the upcoming FIFA Under-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland, where England, France, Italy, Portugal, Spain and hosts Poland are scheduled to compete.

However, ending the boycott does not mean UEFA has ended its opposition to Infantino. European football officials remain determined to find a unity candidate to contest the FIFA presidency when the election takes place in March 2027. UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin has ruled himself out of the race but has indicated that a challenger is likely to emerge.

The election could be significantly closer than Infantino might have expected only a few months ago. A candidate needs 106 votes from FIFA’s 211 member associations to secure victory, meaning an opposition campaign would need to build support well beyond Europe.

One of the strongest potential challengers is CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani, who is reportedly considering a bid. Other names have also emerged, including AFC president Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa and FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafström, although neither has formally entered the race.


UEFA has also stepped away from the idea of pursuing a formal vote of no confidence against Infantino. Such an initiative would require the backing of three-quarters of FIFA’s membership, making it considerably more difficult than simply building a coalition around an alternative candidate.

For UEFA, the objective now appears to be political as much as electoral. Even if Infantino manages to win another term, European officials believe that a narrow victory could weaken his authority and raise questions about the level of support for his leadership.

The dispute began after Infantino’s proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise initiative sparked widespread concern over the potential commercialization and private ownership of major FIFA competitions. FIFA subsequently abandoned the proposal, but the controversy continued to fuel criticism of Infantino’s leadership and governance.


Infantino, meanwhile, continues to seek re-election and retains significant support, particularly among some African and South American associations. With the nomination deadline set for November 18, the coming months will be crucial in determining whether UEFA and its allies can agree on a single candidate capable of mounting a serious challenge.

The withdrawal of the boycott may ease the immediate confrontation between UEFA and FIFA, but it does not resolve the deeper political conflict. With several confederations increasingly questioning Infantino’s leadership, the 2027 FIFA presidential election is shaping up to be one of the most contested in recent years.

With a new campaign approaching, the usual question returns: how will all 20 Premier League clubs fare?

This season is particularly difficult to predict. There are numerous new managers, major transfers across the division and several clubs looking very different from the teams that finished last season.

Here is our predicted final Premier League table.

1. Arsenal — Champions

Arsenal finally ended their long wait for a Premier League title last season, and I expect them to retain it.

Mikel Arteta has built a squad packed with quality in virtually every position. The champions also have something they lacked in previous years: the confidence and experience of knowing exactly what it takes to finish the job.

Their impressive Community Shield victory over Manchester City offered another early indication of their strength.

Unless injuries or an unexpected loss of form intervene, Arsenal look the most complete team in the division.

2. Manchester City

Manchester City enter a new chapter after Pep Guardiola's departure and the arrival of Enzo Maresca.

There has been considerable change at the Etihad, with several influential figures leaving. Rodri, Bernardo Silva and John Stones are among the major departures, leaving Maresca with the difficult task of rebuilding without losing the club's winning mentality.

Still, City retain Erling Haaland, and having a striker of his quality makes them impossible to dismiss.

New additions are also expected before the transfer window closes. City may not immediately return to their previous dominance, but another trophy-winning campaign looks likely.

3. Liverpool

Liverpool endured a dramatic fall from champions to fifth last season, leading to another managerial change.

Andoni Iraola now takes charge, bringing an energetic, aggressive approach from Bournemouth. The transition will not necessarily be straightforward, particularly as the club moves into life after Mohamed Salah.

Nevertheless, Liverpool still possess enormous talent.

Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak give the attack a new dimension, while several young players could make significant breakthroughs. If the squad adapts quickly to Iraola's methods, Liverpool should comfortably return to the Champions League places.

4. Chelsea

Chelsea are my biggest gamble near the top of the table.

Xabi Alonso has arrived after establishing himself as an outstanding young coach at Bayer Leverkusen. His biggest challenge will be turning Chelsea's enormous squad into a coherent team.

There is plenty of ability available to him, and the club's decision to add experienced figures such as Jordan Henderson and Danny Welbeck suggests they are also trying to bring greater leadership to the dressing room.

Morgan Rogers and Maxence Lacroix strengthen the squad further.

With no European competition to distract them, Chelsea could surprise a few people. A top-four finish is certainly within reach.

5. Manchester United

Michael Carrick gets his first full season in charge after helping United recover from a difficult period and secure Champions League football.

The expectation should be much higher this time. United need to challenge for trophies and establish themselves among England's leading clubs again.

Youri Tielemans brings intelligence and experience to midfield, while Andrey Santos offers considerable potential.

There are still obvious gaps that need addressing, particularly if United genuinely want to challenge for the title. I do not expect them to go that far, but another strong season should be possible.

6. Aston Villa

Unai Emery continues to be one of the Premier League's most accomplished managers, and Villa remain capable of competing at the highest level.

However, this summer has brought significant change. The departures of important players, including Youri Tielemans and Morgan Rogers, leave Emery with another rebuilding job.

Alejandro Garnacho has the opportunity to revive his career, while Joao Gomes adds quality to midfield.

Villa's recruitment of young Swiss midfielder Johan Manzambi could also prove inspired. There is plenty of uncertainty, but Emery's tactical ability gives Villa a very high floor.

7. Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham simply cannot afford another season like the last one.

Roberto de Zerbi now has considerably more backing from the club, and Spurs have invested heavily in strengthening the squad.

Andrew Robertson and Marcos Senesi provide experience, while the midfield has received an enormous financial investment through the arrivals of Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes.

Jan Paul van Hecke should strengthen the defence, while Micky van de Ven remaining at the club is another positive.

The talent is certainly there. The question is whether De Zerbi can turn it into a consistent team. I expect a dramatic improvement.

8. Nottingham Forest

Forest's campaign last season was undermined by constant managerial upheaval.

Oliver Glasner now has the opportunity to bring some stability. His demanding style should suit a club that possesses considerable attacking quality.

The sale of Elliot Anderson provides Forest with significant funds to reinvest, while Ousmane Diomande adds strength at the back.

Morgan Gibbs-White remains one of their most important players.

If Glasner gets the balance right, Forest should move comfortably away from the relegation battle.

9. Brighton & Hove Albion

Brighton return to European competition, this time in the Conference League, meaning Fabian Hurzeler will have to manage a heavier schedule.

That additional workload is a concern, but Brighton remain one of the division's best-run clubs.

The departures of Danny Welbeck, James Milner and Jan Paul van Hecke remove experience, although Luka Vuskovic and Pascal Struijk strengthen the defence.

There is enough talent throughout the squad for Brighton to enjoy another successful season.

10. Brentford

Keith Andrews impressed after taking over from Thomas Frank and now has the chance to establish himself.

Brentford narrowly missed out on European football last season, and there is little reason to expect a major decline.

Mamadou Sangare's arrival represents another ambitious investment, while Callum Wilson provides valuable Premier League experience if he can remain fit.

Igor Thiago also gives Brentford a dangerous attacking focal point.

A top-half finish looks realistic.

11. Crystal Palace

Palace face another significant change following Oliver Glasner's departure.

Pierre Sage has earned an excellent reputation and now inherits a squad containing plenty of quality.

Dean Henderson remains dependable in goal, while Adam Wharton gives them creativity in midfield. Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaila Sarr provide plenty of threat going forward.

The biggest issue will be retaining their best players.

If Palace avoid further major departures, another comfortable mid-table season — and perhaps another cup run — should be achievable.

12. Newcastle United

Newcastle enter the campaign with plenty of uncertainty.

Eddie Howe has left, along with several important players, while Matthias Jaissle now faces the task of rebuilding the side.

The departures of Bruno Guimaraes, Sandro Tonali and Anthony Gordon represent a huge loss of quality and experience.

Jaissle has added several promising young players, including Sean Steur, Bazoumana Toure and Amar Dedic, but Newcastle still need proven quality in midfield.

The club's difficult summer could translate into a difficult season unless recruitment improves quickly.

13. Everton

David Moyes knows Everton still have plenty of work to do.

The club have made some intelligent additions, particularly Hayden Hackney and Christian Norgaard, while Iliman Ndiaye remains an important attacking talent.

Tyler Dibling has also impressed during pre-season.

However, there are concerns at full-back and up front. Everton need greater reliability from their strikers if they are to turn promising performances into points.

Another season of survival looks likely, but Moyes will want considerably more.

14. Bournemouth

Bournemouth face one of the division's most interesting challenges.

Andoni Iraola has left, Marco Rose has taken over, and the club now have European football to contend with as well.

Those changes make a repeat of last season's sixth-place finish extremely difficult.

The injury to Eli Junior Kroupi is another setback, although Alex Scott remains a major asset and the club have continued to recruit intelligently.

Antonio Silva and Alvaro Rodriguez could become important players, while Juanlu Sanchez looks another shrewd addition.

I would not be surprised if Bournemouth outperform this prediction.

15. Leeds United

Daniel Farke asked Leeds to show greater ambition in the transfer market, and the club have responded.

James Trafford's arrival from Manchester City gives them a goalkeeper with major potential, while Harry Wilson is an excellent attacking addition.

Tarik Muharemovic should also improve the defence.

The biggest weapon could once again be Elland Road. Leeds will make life extremely uncomfortable for visiting teams.

I expect them to survive, although another difficult season is likely.

16. Fulham

Fulham begin another new era following Marco Silva's departure.

Alvaro Arbeloa has been handed the job after his time at Real Madrid, making this another appointment that carries an element of risk.

Fulham have nevertheless established themselves as a Premier League club and should have enough quality to avoid serious trouble.

Shea Charles could prove an important addition, while Arbeloa's familiarity with Real Madrid's young players has helped bring Gonzalo Garcia and Cesar Palacios to London.

Stability should be the main objective.

17. Sunderland

Sunderland's achievement last season was extraordinary.

Few expected Regis le Bris to take the newly promoted side all the way to European qualification, but that is exactly what happened.

Repeating that success will be extremely difficult.

Keeping Granit Xhaka was a major boost, while Brian Brobbey offers an attacking threat. However, Sunderland have not made enough additions to suggest they can reproduce last season's remarkable results.

A reality check could be coming.

18. Coventry City

Coventry return to the Premier League with plenty of optimism.

Doug King's ownership has brought renewed ambition, while Frank Lampard has overseen an impressive transformation.

The club have also been aggressive in the transfer market. Taiwo Awoniyi provides experience and physical presence, while Gus Hamer's return is a major boost.

Loum Tchaouna, Aurele Amenda and Caleb Yirenkyi add further options.

Coventry have clearly decided to attack the Premier League rather than simply hope for survival.

Even so, staying up will be an enormous challenge.

19. Ipswich Town

Ipswich face another difficult Premier League campaign after Kieran McKenna's surprising departure.

Gary O'Neil now has the responsibility of building on the club's promotion, and the transfer spending shows that Ipswich are serious about remaining in the top flight.

They have invested heavily, bringing in numerous players including Abdoul Ouattara and Julio Enciso.

Daizen Maeda could bring pace and energy to the attack, while Abdul Fatawu is another player capable of making a difference.

Ipswich deserve credit for their ambition, but the Premier League may still prove too strong.

20. Hull City

Hull are back in the top division after a nine-year absence and have wasted little time rebuilding their squad.

Sergej Jakirovic has already welcomed a large group of new players, including goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis and defender Nobel Mendy.

The club have shown genuine ambition and are clearly unwilling to accept that promotion should automatically be followed by relegation.

That spirit could make Hull entertaining to watch.

Unfortunately, we suspect the quality and depth of the Premier League will eventually prove too much.

Final Prediction
Position Club
1 Arsenal
2 Manchester City
3 Liverpool
4 Chelsea
5 Manchester United
6 Aston Villa
7 Tottenham Hotspur
8 Nottingham Forest
9 Brighton & Hove Albion
10 Brentford
11 Crystal Palace
12 Newcastle United
13 Everton
14 Bournemouth
15 Leeds United
16 Fulham
17 Sunderland
18 Coventry City
19 Ipswich Town
20 Hull City

The Premier League rarely follows the script, and this season could be particularly unpredictable. Arsenal look best placed to retain the title, while Chelsea and Tottenham could be among the biggest improvers.

At the other end, the promoted clubs face an uphill battle, with Sunderland also at serious risk of dropping back into the Championship after their extraordinary campaign last season.

Celta Vigo’s LaLiga season opener against Osasuna has been postponed after a fungus outbreak severely damaged the playing surface at Estadio de Balaídos.

The match, originally scheduled for Sunday, was called off after an inspection found that the condition of the pitch had deteriorated despite efforts by Celta to treat the problem. LaLiga said the decision was agreed upon by the clubs and the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), citing an illness affecting the stadium’s playing surface.

The two clubs, however, disagree over when the postponed fixture should be played.

Osasuna said Celta had worked to address the fungus and that it understood why the original match could not go ahead. The club claimed, however, that the two teams had agreed to reschedule the game for September 24 or 25, during the international break.

According to Osasuna, that arrangement would have limited the impact on both teams’ schedules and provided players with additional recovery time early in the season.

LaLiga and the RFEF instead scheduled the match for August 27. Osasuna said the decision was made without its consent, despite league and federation officials being aware of the agreement between the clubs.

“The team most affected by the initial postponement for reasons beyond its control is again the most affected by the new schedule,” Osasuna said.

The club also criticized the timing of the postponement, arguing that the decision came only three days before kickoff and reflected what it described as a broader pattern of late calendar changes.

Celta said LaLiga had inspected the pitch the previous week and approved the work being carried out to eliminate the disease. However, the club said recent weather conditions slowed the recovery of the field and ultimately made postponement unavoidable.

The pitch was inspected again by league officials on Wednesday before the decision was finalized.

While both clubs accepted that the damaged surface made the original fixture impossible, Osasuna remains unhappy with the replacement date. The dispute now centers on whether the match should be played on August 27 or moved to the September international break.

Osasuna ended its statement with a pointed criticism of the league’s handling of the situation: “This is not football — it’s La Liga.”

Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka is facing an investigation by prosecutors in Lucerne over allegations that he obtained a fraudulent Covid-19 vaccination certificate in 2022.

Swiss authorities confirmed that an investigation is ongoing to establish whether Xhaka committed a criminal offence by obtaining or using a certificate that was false or forged.

Xhaka, 33, who was playing for Arsenal at the time, addressed the matter publicly on Monday. He admitted that he obtained a vaccination certificate after struggling with doubts about the Covid-19 vaccine.

The Sunderland midfielder said he had been affected by "worries and uncertainty" and acknowledged that he should have dealt with his concerns differently.

Xhaka said he now accepts that his decision was wrong, apologized for his actions and confirmed that he would cooperate fully with the investigation.

Although Switzerland did not impose a nationwide legal obligation for everyone to possess a Covid certificate, certificates were required for access to certain venues, activities and forms of travel during the pandemic. Restrictions remained in place until spring 2022, while certificates continued to be issued afterward mainly for international travel.

The potential consequences for Xhaka have not yet been established. A previous Swiss case involving national ice hockey coach Patrick Fischer provides one example of how authorities have dealt with the issue. Fischer was convicted in 2023 after using a fake Covid certificate connected to his participation at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing and was fined 38,000 Swiss francs. He was later dismissed from his position and received a four-year ban from the International Ice Hockey Federation.

Following Xhaka's statement, the Swiss Football Association confirmed that he would withdraw from the national team's upcoming Nations League fixtures against North Macedonia, Scotland and Slovenia.

The association said the decision was reached jointly by Xhaka and the team's management. His future with the national side is expected to be discussed after the international break.

Xhaka is Switzerland's record appearance holder, with 152 international caps. The midfielder also captained the country at this year's World Cup, where Switzerland reached the quarter-finals before losing to eventual runners-up Argentina.

At club level, Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris declined to comment on the investigation after his side's defeat by Manchester City.

Le Bris said the matter was outside his responsibility, adding that his focus was football and describing Xhaka's performances on the pitch positively.

The investigation remains ongoing, and no criminal conviction against Xhaka has been reported.

Shockwaves have hit West African football as Ibrahim Musa Gusau loses his grip on the WAFU Zone B presidency following his dramatic exit from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

Gusau’s reign at the regional level has come to an abrupt end, just days after he resigned as President of the NFF, triggering a major leadership shake-up in West African football.

In a decisive move, the WAFU Zone B leadership has appointed Oumarou Sawadogo, President of the Burkina Faso Football Federation, as Gusau’s successor.

The development means Nigeria has been stripped of its place at the top of the sub-regional football bloc, with Burkina Faso now taking the leadership seat.

Gusau had occupied the powerful WAFU Zone B presidency while simultaneously steering the affairs of Nigerian football. But following his departure from the NFF, that dual leadership has now come to an end.

Sawadogo inherits the regional presidency at a crucial moment as WAFU Zone B continues to drive football development, organise competitions and coordinate programmes involving its member associations.

The sudden change marks a dramatic new chapter for the regional body — and signals the end of Nigeria’s latest spell at the summit of WAFU Zone B. From Abuja to the regional stage, Gusau’s football leadership era has ended — and Burkina Faso is now calling the shots.

The transfer window has slammed shut. The big-money deals are done. The deadline-day chaos is over. Clubs can no longer splash millions on new signings.

But there’s still plenty of talent sitting on the sidelines. A remarkable group of household names are now free agents, meaning clubs can potentially snap them up without paying a transfer fee.

And the list is loaded with former Premier League champions, Champions League winners, Ballon d’Or winners and some of the biggest names of the past decade.

Pogba, Benzema and Ramos headline the free-agent market
At the very top of the list is Paul Pogba.

The 33-year-old former Manchester United and Juventus midfielder is searching for his next chapter after Monaco terminated his contract following a difficult spell blighted by injuries.

Pogba's career has been interrupted repeatedly in recent years, but there is no doubt about the pedigree. At his best, he was one of the most exciting midfielders in world football.

Then there is Karim Benzema.

The former Real Madrid superstar and Ballon d’Or winner has also suddenly become available after his contract with Al-Hilal was terminated.

At 38, Benzema is no longer the unstoppable striker who terrorised European defences at Madrid — but his experience, finishing and enormous trophy haul make him one of the most intriguing free agents on the market.

And then there is Sergio Ramos.

Forty years old. Four Champions League titles. World Cup winner. One of the most decorated defenders of his generation.

Ramos has been without a club since leaving Monterrey in December 2025, yet he has still not called time on his extraordinary career.

Could one more adventure be waiting?

⚡ Sancho is still looking for his next move
Few names on this list carry more intrigue than Jadon Sancho.

The 26-year-old's Manchester United career never reached the heights expected after his £73m move from Borussia Dortmund in 2021.

Loan spells followed at Chelsea and Aston Villa, and now Sancho is searching for another opportunity.

A move to Brazilian giants Palmeiras has reportedly been agreed — but until everything is officially completed, Sancho remains one of the biggest names on the free-agent market.

At just 26, he could still have plenty of football left to offer.

⯑ Champions League pedigree is everywhere
Sancho isn't the only player whose CV jumps off the page.

Dani Carvajal spent 13 years at Real Madrid, making an astonishing 451 appearances and winning virtually everything there is to win.

David Alaba, meanwhile, left Madrid after five years and arrives on the market with a résumé that includes 12 league titles and four Champions League triumphs.

Then there's Riyad Mahrez.

The Algerian winger won the Premier League five times and lifted the Champions League with Manchester City. He scored 37 goals in 122 appearances for Al Ahli before his contract was terminated.

He may not be available for long, however, with reports linking him with a move to Al-Shabab.

⯑ And the list goes on...
There are plenty of other familiar faces waiting for their next opportunity.

Raheem Sterling, 31, is available after leaving Feyenoord following just eight games.

Philippe Coutinho, 34, has been without a club since leaving Vasco da Gama and has previously been linked with a move to MLS.

Jamie Vardy, 39, is also searching for his next destination after leaving Cremonese following their relegation to Serie B.

And there are plenty more experienced players available:

Jordan Ayew, 34
Dele Alli, 30
Joselu, 36
Anthony Martial, 30
Conor Coady, 33
Wilfried Zaha, 33
James Rodríguez, 35
Tyrell Malacia, 27
Oleksandr Zinchenko, 29
Solly March, 32
Georginio Wijnaldum, 35
Yves Bissouma, 30
The window may be closed — the market isn't For these players, deadline day didn't bring an ending. It simply brought another question: Who will take the gamble?

Some are veterans chasing one final chapter. Others, such as Sancho, Malacia and Zinchenko, are still young enough to rebuild their careers at the highest level.

And with no transfer fee required, clubs could be looking at some potentially huge bargains.

The transfer window may have slammed shut. But the free-agent market is still wide open.

The Irish Football Association (IFA) has withdrawn its support for Gianni Infantino’s bid to remain FIFA president, adding further pressure on the under-fire leader ahead of next year’s election.

The Northern Ireland governing body said it was time for change after expressing serious concerns over Infantino’s approach to FIFA’s governance and financial affairs.

The decision follows controversy surrounding a proposal to sell a 21% stake in FIFA’s commercial operations to a private investment company. The plan was eventually abandoned after strong opposition, particularly from UEFA, which had warned it could consider boycotting FIFA competitions.

In a statement, the IFA said the proposal had gone beyond a simple communication failure and raised serious concerns about FIFA’s strategy, governance and management of its assets.

The association had previously supported UEFA’s opposition to the plan but had stopped short of formally withdrawing its backing for Infantino. It has now joined a growing number of football associations calling for new leadership.

Football associations in England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland have already withdrawn their support for Infantino, who is expected to seek a fourth term as FIFA president at the election in March 2027.

Former Players unite against FIFA
Former Manchester United and France defender Mikaël Silvestre, a member of FIFA’s Players’ Voice Panel, published a statement calling for significant changes within the organisation. The statement was subsequently shared by prominent players and former internationals, including England defender Lucy Bronze, France World Cup winner Emmanuel Petit and former England goalkeeper David James.

The players criticised FIFA for making major decisions without sufficient consultation with footballers or supporters. They argued that the sport had moved away from its traditional values under Infantino’s leadership and called for players and fans to have a greater say in how football is governed.

“Change is necessary,” the statement said, arguing that recent developments had made it impossible for players to remain silent.

Infantino is facing increasing pressure from several parts of the football world. UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin has suggested that the FIFA president should either step aside or face a serious challenge at next year’s election.

However, Infantino still retains influential support. Samuel Eto’o, president of the Cameroon Football Association and a former Barcelona striker, has defended the FIFA president and said he does not believe Infantino has done anything wrong.

Eto’o credited Infantino with expanding opportunities for smaller nations and increasing Africa’s influence within international football.

With more national associations and prominent players now calling for change, the pressure on Infantino is growing. The crucial question will be whether his opponents can unite behind a credible alternative before the FIFA presidential election next March.

FIFA chief operating officer Kevin Lamour has left the organisation less than three weeks after publicly challenging president Gianni Infantino over a controversial plan to bring private investment into FIFA's competitions.

FIFA confirmed on Monday, 17 August 2026, that its working relationship with Lamour had ended. The governing body did not provide a reason for his departure, saying only that FIFA and Lamour had “agreed to part ways”.

In a message to FIFA staff, secretary general Mattias Grafstrom said the decision followed recent discussions and thanked Lamour for his contribution during his two years with the organisation.

Lamour joined FIFA in November 2024 after previously working as deputy general secretary at UEFA. He was one of the senior figures within FIFA's administration, although he was two levels below Infantino.

His departure comes against the backdrop of growing political tensions surrounding Infantino and his plans for FIFA's commercial operations.

Controversial FIFA Forward Enterprise plan

The dispute centred on FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE), a proposed company that would have overseen the commercial and ticketing rights connected to FIFA competitions, including the World Cup.

Infantino's plan to sell a 21% stake in the proposed company to private investment firms triggered strong opposition across international football.

UEFA, Concacaf and the Asian Football Confederation all raised concerns about the proposal. UEFA went as far as threatening to boycott the World Cup if the plan was implemented.

Lamour subsequently became one of the most outspoken internal critics of the project.

Last month, he described FFE as “the project of one person” and argued that football's political leaders needed to take responsibility for what was happening within FIFA.

He also claimed that FIFA's own administration had been “deceived” over the project.

Lamour said FIFA employees' primary responsibility was to serve football and argued that a president should unite and inspire people rather than divide them.

Acknowledging his obligation to FIFA, he nevertheless said he also had a responsibility to certain principles and to his colleagues.

“If that means I lose my job, then so be it,” Lamour said at the time.

 FFE abandoned after widespread opposition

The pressure surrounding FFE eventually forced FIFA to abandon the proposal.

The decision was a significant setback for Infantino, who has increasingly faced criticism from football authorities over his leadership and commercial ambitions.

A further blow came when Carlos Cordeiro, a senior adviser to Infantino, resigned during the controversy.

Infantino subsequently secured backing from a number of senior FIFA executives at a meeting in Morocco earlier this month. Lamour, however, was reportedly not invited to the meeting.

His departure now adds another dramatic chapter to the dispute.

 Infantino faces growing opposition ahead of election

The controversy comes at a particularly sensitive time for Infantino as he seeks a fourth term as FIFA president.

UEFA and Concacaf have withdrawn their previous support for his re-election at the FIFA Congress in March 2027.

Several European football associations have also turned against him. England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland have already withdrawn their support, while the Scottish FA became the latest to do so on Monday.

However, Infantino still retains substantial backing elsewhere.

Football authorities from Africa, South America and Oceania have supported his bid, while several Concacaf members have broken with their confederation to back him. Mexico is among those supporting Infantino.

The divisions demonstrate how contested the FIFA presidency has become as the 2027 election approaches.

What FIFA says about Lamour's departure

FIFA has not directly linked Lamour's departure to his criticism of FFE or Infantino.

Its official statement was limited to confirming that the relationship between FIFA and its chief operating officer ended on 17 August.

“FIFA thanks Kevin for his two years of service and wishes him the best of luck for the future,” a FIFA spokesperson said.

Grafstrom similarly told FIFA Council members that the organisation had agreed to part ways with Lamour following recent discussions.

Lamour has been approached for comment.

His departure nevertheless raises further questions about the internal divisions within FIFA, particularly after the collapse of the FFE project and the growing opposition to Infantino ahead of next year's presidential election.

For now, FIFA maintains that Lamour's exit was an agreed decision. But given the timing and his recent public criticism of the president's plans, his departure is likely to fuel further scrutiny of the leadership and governance of world football.

A growing alliance of football’s major continental confederations is preparing a new blueprint for how the global game should be governed, amid an escalating confrontation with FIFA president Gianni Infantino.

UEFA, Concacaf and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) are understood to be working together on a policy document that would outline a possible alternative model for FIFA. The initiative reflects mounting frustration over what the three organisations regard as an increasingly centralised and opaque style of leadership under Infantino.

People familiar with the discussions say the group is considering fundamental questions about FIFA's future. These include the organisation's core responsibilities, the way its leadership should be structured, how decisions should be made and how FIFA's substantial financial resources should be distributed among its members.

The use of FIFA's reserves is expected to be a particularly important issue. With the governing body holding billions of dollars in reserves, the confederations want to examine whether the money could be distributed and invested in a way that provides greater long-term benefits for national associations and football development.

The move comes after a major dispute over Infantino's recently abandoned proposal to create a commercial vehicle that would allow private investors to acquire an interest in World Cup-related assets. FIFA eventually withdrew the plan following widespread opposition, but the episode has deepened concerns among several of its most powerful members about transparency and consultation.

Rather than waiting for FIFA's leadership to initiate the governance review they have requested, UEFA, Concacaf and the AFC have begun developing their own proposals. The resulting framework could eventually become the platform for a challenger seeking to defeat Infantino in FIFA's next presidential election.

There is also a more dramatic possibility. If the dispute cannot be resolved, the proposals could potentially provide the foundations for an alternative structure outside FIFA, although such a development would represent an extraordinary rupture in international football.

The three confederations have already signalled that they are prepared to consider more direct action. In a joint statement, they called for leadership that serves football rather than concentrates power, while discussions have reportedly begun about the possibility of staging alternative competitions if the conflict with FIFA's leadership continues.

UEFA's position has become particularly confrontational. European officials have threatened to boycott FIFA competitions unless the governing body agrees to an independent investigation into the controversy surrounding the World Cup investment proposal and provides firm guarantees that similar decisions will not be made without proper consultation in the future.

One immediate consequence could involve the Under-20 Women's World Cup. UEFA has indicated that European teams could withdraw from the tournament if FIFA fails to respond to its demands quickly enough.

The growing alliance also has potential implications for the FIFA presidency. Concacaf president Victor Montagliani is currently viewed as one of the strongest possible candidates to challenge Infantino. Montagliani has previously insisted that his immediate priority is securing his own re-election at Concacaf, but his public comments about leadership and accountability have closely reflected the language now being used by FIFA's critics.

The political manoeuvring is intensifying as senior European football officials gather in Salzburg for meetings surrounding the UEFA Super Cup. UEFA president Aleksander Čeferin is expected to meet with Nasser Al-Khelaifi, chairman of European Football Clubs, as European football seeks to maintain a united position over FIFA's leadership.

The meetings come at a critical moment for Infantino. Although FIFA has apologised for mistakes surrounding the failed investment initiative and withdrawn the proposal, opposition from major confederations has continued.

What began as a dispute over one controversial commercial proposal has therefore evolved into a much broader argument about who should control the future of global football.

For the first time in years, influential parts of the football world are not simply demanding changes from FIFA—they are beginning to consider what a different FIFA could actually look like.

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