FIFA president Gianni Infantino has once again stepped in to defend the astronomical pricing of tickets for the 2026 World Cup. Facing an onslaught of criticism from supporters who have labelled the costs as "shameful," the head of world football's governing body claims the move is a financial necessity.

Real Madrid have reportedly identified Jurgen Klopp and Mauricio Pochettino as their primary targets should they decide to move on from Alvaro Arbeloa. The Spanish giants are reeling from a disappointing Champions League exit and a significant deficit in the domestic title race, with pressure building on Arbeloa with each passing game.

All you need to know about getting your hands on tickets to see the co-hosts in action

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has dismissed any doubts regarding Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup, insisting the nation will be present despite the escalating war involving co-hosts the United States. Football's world governing body chief has moved to provide clarity on Iran’s status after geopolitical tensions led to suggestions that their involvement could be at risk.

Chelsea simply had to win Saturday night's Premier League clash with Manchester United. But they didn't. They lost. Again. And without scoring a goal. Again. It's now four blanks in a row in four defeats in a row for the Blues - their worst goal-less run of results since November 1912. As a result, Liam Rosenior's struggling side remain sixth in the Premier League standings, four points behind fifth-placed Liverpool, who have a game in hand.

The Premier League has never been more popular and yet this season there has been a noticeable rise in people, from everyday fans to respected pundits to even elite coaches, insisting they are losing interest. When Arne Slot said the English top flight was "not a joy to watch" many agreed with the Liverpool manager and the data backed up his argument.

Arne Slot declared that the "future was bright" for Liverpool after Tuesday's Champions League elimination but there was no lifting the doom and gloom around Anfield. The hosts hadn't just lost yet another game to Paris Saint-Germain - they'd also lost Hugo Ekitike to injury. Indeed, what little hope Liverpool had of overturning a 2-0 first-leg deficit effectively ended the moment their only fit and in-form forward hit the deck with nobody near him.

Alessia Russo's clinical finish and Hannah Hampton's world-class goalkeeping allowed England to maintain their perfect record in Women's World Cup qualifying on Saturday, as the Lionesses edged to a nervy 1-0 win over Iceland. Sarina Wiegman's side were coming into the game fresh off the back of a huge win over Spain at Wembley and they preserved their lead at the top of the group with another three points, even if it was far from convincing at times.