Former England defender Ashley Cole stepped down as the England Under‑21 coach after a five‑year spell that saw the side win back‑to‑back European titles. Lee Carsley praised Cole’s positive impact and wished him success in future coaching roles.
The Football Association has given the green light for four WSL academy teams to join the third tier of the Women’s National League from the 2027‑28 season. The move, part of wider reforms, aims to give young English players more competitive minutes and strengthen the women’s football pyramid.
Jed York, co-owner of Leeds United and Rangers and chief executive of the San Francisco 49ers, was sentenced to a day in jail for each of two offences after pleading no contest to soliciting prostitution in Ohio. He was also fined $150 for disorderly conduct and $1,000 for possessing criminal tools. The legal matter has been noted by the NFL under its personal conduct policy.
Linfield chairman Roy McGivern said manager David Healy was absolutely right to call out the personal and vile abuse he received from supporters after the team’s 3-0 loss to Ballymena United. McGivern also highlighted the club’s financial difficulties following an early European exit and said discussions are underway for outside investment.
Manchester United teenager Jacob Devaney has moved to Scottish Premiership side Hibernian on a loan deal that includes an option to buy. The 19‑year‑old, a Republic of Ireland Under‑21 international, previously played for St Mirren and featured in United’s pre‑season games.
Harry Kane became the first English player to be named Germany’s Footballer of the Year for 2026 after scoring 61 goals across all competitions for Bayern Munich. The award, organised by Kicker magazine, saw Kane receive 272 votes, ahead of teammate Michael Olise. Bayern Munich also celebrated other accolades, with Vincent Kompany named Coach of the Year and Giulia Gwinn honoured as the best female player.
Adam Brooks delivered his first Irish Premiership hat‑trick, guiding Crusaders to a 3‑2 victory over Portadown at Seaview. The performance has prompted manager Declan Caddell to label Brooks a potential new Scottish sensation for the club. Portadown manager David Jeffrey lamented the fine margins that have cost his side early season points.
Former West Brom midfielder Quevin Castro, 25, died after collapsing in the first half of a friendly between Real Sport Clube and Estrela de Amadora at the Estadio das Seixas in Lisbon. West Brom expressed devastation and will honour him with a minute of applause and black armbands in their upcoming Championship match.
Jamaican sprint legend Usain Bolt, now 40, has signed up to play for Wythenshawe Vets FC, a veteran’s Sunday league side in south Manchester. The registration, listed on the FA’s Full‑Time system, adds Bolt to a squad that already features several former Premier League professionals.
Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes was handed a 10‑match suspension by FIFA for his involvement in post‑match clashes after the 2026 World Cup final loss to Spain. Teammates Nahuel Molina and others also received bans and fines, and the Argentine Football Association was fined $321,000, with part of the fine earmarked for anti‑discrimination measures.