## 2026 World Cup: Who Will Claim Football's Greatest Prize?

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is officially underway, with the opening match taking place at Mexico City's iconic Azteca Stadium. The tournament concludes on 19 July at MetLife Stadium near New York City, wrapping up what promises to be the most expansive World Cup in history.

For the first time ever, 48 nations will compete across 104 matches, spread over 39 days through three co-hosting nations — Canada, Mexico, and the United States — with defending champions Argentina also in the mix. The big question on everyone's lips: who takes home the coveted golden trophy?

BBC Sport's football pundits, co-commentators, and analysts have shared their bold predictions, alongside insights from AI models and Opta's statistical supercomputer.

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## The Favorites: France and Spain Lead the Conversation

### France: The Pick of the Pundits

The majority of BBC pundits are backing France as the team to beat in 2026. However, several experts have flagged a recurring concern — squad harmony.

**Alan Shearer** believes France have the tools to win it, but issued a clear warning: "Only if there is no in-house fighting. With the ability they have in forward positions, two or three big players are going to be left out every game, so it will come down to whether they cope with that in the right way."

**Danny Murphy** echoed that sentiment, pointing to France's extraordinary attacking depth as a decisive weapon, particularly in knockout stages played under intense heat. "The likes of Rayan Cherki, Ousmane Dembele, and Desire Doue can't all start, but they can be gamechangers if they come on after 70 minutes in 30-degree heat."

**Chris Sutton**, a consistent France supporter across previous tournaments, is sticking with his pick. "Spain are outstanding but I've backed France for the last two World Cups and wasn't far wrong. I'm not changing my mind — their frontline is incredibly hard to stop."

**Paul Robinson** put it bluntly: "The only thing that stops France from winning it is France. They'll need a harmonious dressing room."

### Spain: Tactical Clarity and Generational Talent

Spain are widely regarded as the second-strongest contender, with pundits praising their structured, identity-driven style of play.

**Thomas Frank** acknowledged Spain's strength but raised doubts about their depth: "They are very clear in how they play, which gives them a massive strength. But I still doubt them a little because they rely heavily on Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams. Without those two, I'm not sure they have enough individual quality to go all the way."

**Micah Richards** pointed to Spain's ball-retention ability as a major asset, particularly given the tournament's humid conditions. "I just feel it's going to be a team who are really good at keeping the ball, and that points me toward Spain."

**Gael Clichy** highlighted Spain's extraordinary record across all age groups: "Spain seem to win everything at every level, so of course they are up there — but being French, I'm going for France."

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## England's Chances: Hope Meets Cautious Optimism

Seven BBC pundits backed England to win the tournament, making them the second most-tipped team after France.

**Wayne Rooney** went one step further, predicting an all-English final scenario: "England and Spain will make the final, and hopefully England will win it."

**Thomas Frank** made the boldest call of all the pundits: "A lot of people are saying it's France or Spain, but for me it is between Brazil and England — and I am saying England!"

**Martin Keown** captured the general sentiment well: "My head is telling me the best team is France, my heart is telling me it could be England. And looking at the potential quarter-final matchups, this might be the hardest World Cup there has ever been to win."

**Joe Hart** kept his prediction simple and heartfelt: "England. I just like to back my people and I want England to do it."

**Pat Nevin** rated England alongside France as joint favorites, but also raised a fascinating wildcard possibility: Morocco. "From what I hear, they might be better now than they were when they reached the semi-finals in Qatar — and they were great then. I wouldn't be shocked if we get a left-field winner, and Morocco are the ones who jump out at me."

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## Other Contenders: Argentina, Brazil, Portugal, and Morocco

Beyond the top two, several nations are generating serious buzz among pundits.

- **Argentina**: Defending champions with Lionel Messi still capable of magic, according to Micah Richards. "Argentina will go close because of the way they work for Messi. I still think he can do something special."
- **Brazil**: Flagged by Thomas Frank and Tony Pulis as genuine contenders, with South American teams historically well-suited to the climate.
- **Morocco**: Pat Nevin's dark horse pick, pointing to their impressive Qatar 2022 campaign and reportedly improved squad.
- **Portugal**: Martin Keown teased the possibility of a Messi vs. Cristiano Ronaldo quarter-final blockbuster if the top seeds win their groups.

**Tony Pulis** listed his predicted quarter-finalists as: Argentina, Brazil, France, England, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, and Senegal — with France as his overall winner.

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## Controversy: Is 48 Teams Too Many?

Not all pundits were enthusiastic about the expanded format. **Tony Pulis** was characteristically blunt: "It's ridiculous that there are 48 teams and 40 more games than last time. Football at this level is now being used as a cash cow."

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## The Verdict: How the Pundits Voted

### France (9 votes)
Scott Brown, Gael Clichy, Rachel Corsie, Olivier Giroud, Danny Murphy, Paul Robinson, Tony Pulis, Alan Shearer, and Chris Sutton.

### England (7 votes)
Thomas Frank, Joe Hart, Steph Houghton, Martin Keown, Wayne Rooney, Sue Smith, and Ellen White.

With France narrowly edging England in the pundit poll, the 2026 World Cup looks set to be a thrilling contest. Whether it's France's firepower, England's belief, or a surprise package like Morocco, football fans around the world are in for a spectacular five weeks of action.

BBC football pundits share bold 2026 World Cup predictions. Find out who they're backing between France, England, Spain, and other top contenders.

2026 World Cup Predictions: BBC Pundits Pick Their Winners

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2026 World Cup Predictions: BBC Pundits Share Their Picks for the Ultimate Prize

## Rising Stars Ready to Make Their Mark at the 2026 World Cup

With a record-breaking 1,248 players set to compete across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the 2026 FIFA World Cup promises to be a showcase of global football talent like never before. While established superstars will command attention, it's the fresh faces — 891 of whom are stepping onto the World Cup stage for the very first time — that could truly capture the imagination of fans worldwide.

BBC Sport's television and radio commentators have identified 20 players from outside the Premier League and Scottish Premiership who are primed to become the breakout stars of this summer's tournament.

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### Mory Diomande — Ivory Coast
**Age:** 19 | **Position:** Winger | **Club:** RB Leipzig

One of the most coveted young talents heading into this summer's transfer window, RB Leipzig's teenage winger Mory Diomande is already turning heads across European football. The Bundesliga's Rookie of the Season, Diomande arrived at Leipzig from Spanish club Leganes in July 2025 for just 20 million euros (approximately £17.2 million) — a fee that now looks like an absolute steal.

In his debut Bundesliga campaign, the 19-year-old racked up an impressive 21 goal contributions — 12 goals and nine assists — across 33 league appearances, playing a key role in helping Leipzig secure Champions League football.

Diomande has an interesting personal connection to the host nation, having relocated to Florida at the age of 15 and spending three years living in the United States. A shoulder injury ruled him out of Ivory Coast's March friendlies against South Korea and Scotland, but he returned to action in spectacular fashion, starting in his country's surprise warm-up victory over France. He looks set to feature prominently when the tournament gets underway.

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### Emilio Mora — Mexico
**Age:** 17 | **Position:** Midfielder | **Club:** Tijuana

At just 17 years old, Emilio Mora holds the distinction of being the youngest player at the entire 2026 World Cup — and his story is already extraordinary. Last summer, he became Mexico's youngest-ever senior international when he appeared at the Gold Cup aged just 16, earning widespread praise as a genuine wonderkid.

Coach Javier Aguirre showed incredible faith in the teenager by naming him in the starting lineup for the Gold Cup final, where Mexico defeated Mauricio Pochettino's United States 2-1 in Houston to claim the title.

Mora also etched his name into Liga MX history as the competition's youngest-ever goalscorer, finding the net for Tijuana in August 2024 at the age of 15. With the opening World Cup match against South Africa taking place at the iconic Azteca Stadium, Mexican fans will be desperate to see their young star on the pitch from the start. However, Spanish-born midfielder Alvaro Fidalgo's decision to commit to Mexico in February could mean Mora initially finds himself on the bench.

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### Joël Manzambi — Switzerland
**Age:** 20 | **Position:** Midfielder | **Club:** SC Freiburg

Switzerland has a proud tradition of using major tournaments as a launchpad for talented young players — Breel Embolo and Dan Ndoye both benefited from this approach in previous World Cups. This time around, all eyes are on SC Freiburg's Joël Manzambi, the youngest member of the Swiss squad and arguably its most exciting emerging talent.

Manzambi played a pivotal role in Freiburg's remarkable run to the Europa League final — the first European final in the club's history — earning UEFA's Europa League Revelation of the Season award in the process. His seven goals from midfield included a stunning strike against Braga in the semi-final, and across the entire European campaign he attempted 33 shots at goal — eleven more than any of his teammates.

Swiss national team captain Granit Xhaka has publicly praised the Geneva-born midfielder, and head coach Murat Yakin has described him as possessing "an incredible hunger to score goals that I have rarely seen." Versatile enough to operate in central midfield, as a number 10, or in a right-sided forward role, Manzambi scored his first senior international goal in a 4-0 victory over the United States in Nashville last summer.

Having featured in all 11 of Switzerland's internationals since his debut in June last year, Manzambi looks set to be one of the tournament's standout performers — and it may only be a matter of time before a larger European club comes calling.

---

### Ricardo Pepi — United States
**Age:** 23 | **Position:** Striker | **Club:** PSV Eindhoven

As one of the three co-host nations, the United States will carry enormous pressure to perform in front of home fans — and much of that burden could fall on the shoulders of PSV Eindhoven striker Ricardo Pepi. Last season, Pepi delivered a devastating return of 19 league goals, including six in his final five matches, as PSV claimed the Dutch Eredivisie title.

With 13 goals from 35 international appearances, Pepi has proven his quality at senior level, though his puzzling absence from the starting lineup — playing just 36 minutes for the US between November 2024 and April this year — raised questions about his standing in the squad. He returned to the first team with an assist in a 3-2 friendly win over Senegal in late May before also appearing against Germany.

With the host nation needing a clinical finisher to fire them deep into the tournament, Pepi has the credentials and the motivation to be the player who delivers.

---

### Paz — Argentina
**Age:** N/A | **Position:** Midfielder | **Club:** Como (Italy)**

One of the more intriguing names on this list, Paz played an integral role in Como's sensational rise through Italian football under manager Cesc Fabregas. Beyond his club success, the Argentine midfielder commands significant attention back in his home country, where expectations are high for his performances on the World Cup stage.

---

## A World Cup Full of Potential

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is shaping up to be one of the most exciting tournaments in recent memory, not least because of the wealth of young, dynamic talent ready to announce themselves to a global audience. Whether it's a teenage Mexican prodigy, a Swiss Europa League sensation, or an American striker carrying the hopes of the host nation, these are the names that could define the summer — and reshape football for years to come.

Keep these players on your watchlist. By the time the final whistle blows, some of them may be household names.

Discover the 20 rising stars set to shine at the 2026 World Cup, from teenage sensations to Europa League standouts ready for the global stage.

20 Young Players to Watch at the 2026 World Cup

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Rising Stars to Watch at the 2026 World Cup: 20 Players Ready to Shine

## Iran Stripped of World Cup Fan Tickets Ahead of Tournament

Iran's Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran (FFIRI) has confirmed that its officially allocated tickets for the World Cup group stage have been revoked, just days before the competition gets underway — leaving thousands of supporters scrambling after already making travel plans.

### Tournament Schedule and What's at Stake

The 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, kicks off on Thursday. Iran is scheduled to face New Zealand on June 15, followed by a match against Belgium on June 21 — both in Los Angeles — before closing out their group stage campaign against Egypt in Seattle on June 26.

### Federation's Ticket Rights Under Fifa Rules

According to the FFIRI, Fifa's own regulations entitle every participating federation to an 8% share of available tickets for each of their matches, which federations are then responsible for distributing to their supporters. Iran's football body states it had already begun selling those tickets to fans — some of whom have since booked flights and accommodation — before being informed the allocation would no longer be honored.

### Federation Condemns Decision as Politically Motivated

In a strongly worded official statement, the FFIRI described the move as fundamentally unjust.

"Depriving Iranian supporters of access to their lawful and official allocation of tickets is an action contrary to the spirit of governing international competitions and the principle of equality among participating countries," the federation stated.

The FFIRI further argued that the decision raises "serious questions about the interference of non-sporting and political considerations in the organisation of the world's biggest football event," and called on Fifa to "uphold the principles of neutrality, fairness, and established regulations."

## A Tournament Riddled With Political Complications

This latest development is just one in a long series of controversies surrounding Iran's participation in the 2026 World Cup — controversies deeply intertwined with geopolitical tensions and ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

### Training Base Relocation

On May 25, Iran relocated their pre-tournament training camp from Tucson, Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico, alleging that the United States had been unwilling to serve as a proper host. Under the terms of their current visa arrangements, Iranian players and staff are required to fly in and out of the US specifically on matchdays for all three group stage fixtures.

### Visa Denials Disrupting Team Operations

The complications deepened on June 6, when the FFIRI accused US authorities of denying entry visas to 15 administrative members described as "integral" to the national team's operations, effectively disrupting the squad's logistical and backroom support ahead of the tournament.

### IRGC-Linked Personnel at the Center of Dispute

Prior to the tournament, Iran submitted a list of 10 conditions to Fifa as requirements for their participation. Among them was a demand to allow players, coaches, and officials who have completed military service with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to enter the host countries.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has since clarified that Iranian players are welcome to compete but that individuals with documented ties to the IRGC may face restrictions on entry into American territory.

### Iran Excluded From Fifa Congress

Tensions reached a symbolic peak in April, when Iran became the only participating nation absent from Fifa's annual congress held in Vancouver. A delegation of FFIRI officials — including federation president Mehdi Taj — were turned away at the Canadian border, further highlighting the extraordinary obstacles surrounding the team's participation.

## Broader Implications for World Cup Governance

The revocation of Iran's fan ticket allocation adds yet another layer to what has already become one of the most politically charged World Cup participations in recent memory. Whether Fifa will intervene or respond to the FFIRI's appeals for fairness remains to be seen, but the situation continues to raise uncomfortable questions about the intersection of international sport and global politics.

Iran's football federation says its official World Cup ticket allocation has been revoked days before the tournament, citing political interference and inequali

Iran's World Cup Fan Tickets Revoked Before Tournament

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Iran's World Cup Ticket Allocation Revoked Days Before Tournament Kicks Off

## West Ham Co-Owner David Sullivan Accused of Predatory Sexual Conduct by Multiple Women

Billionaire businessman and former West Ham United co-owner David Sullivan is facing serious accusations of sexual exploitation from multiple women, following a major joint investigation by BBC Panorama and The Times.

### Allegations Spanning Four Decades

Seven women have come forward with accounts of alleged predatory and sexually exploitative behavior by Sullivan, with incidents reportedly beginning as far back as the 1980s. All seven accusers were young women — predominantly in their late teens or early twenties — who were pursuing careers in glamour modeling and sought work through Sullivan's Daily and Sunday Sport newspapers.

The women allege that Sullivan leveraged his considerable power and influence to pressure them into sexual acts during professional meetings, dangling promises of career advancement in exchange for sex or oral sex. The allegations paint a troubling picture of a man who allegedly used his position as a powerful industry gatekeeper to exploit vulnerable young women seeking to establish themselves.

**Warning: This article contains descriptions of alleged sexual misconduct and explicit language.**

### Florence's Account

One accuser, referred to as Florence — not her real name — described a deeply disturbing encounter with Sullivan in 1999, when she was just 20 years old. Arranged through Sport editor-in-chief Tony Livesey, now a BBC Radio 5 Live presenter, the meeting took place at Sullivan's sprawling Essex mansion.

Florence arrived with her boyfriend, who waited in another area of the property while she met Sullivan privately. She recalled being struck by the sheer scale and lavishness of the home, while Sullivan himself sat behind his desk dressed casually in a tracksuit.

After reviewing her modeling portfolio, Sullivan allegedly asked her to "freshen up" — a phrase she initially did not understand until he made clear he wanted her to undress to her underwear, which she did.

According to Florence, Sullivan then made an explicit proposition, telling her in crude terms that if she agreed to have sex with him, she would become one of his "regular girls," promising magazine covers, centerfold spreads, and ongoing work as a Sport model.

When she attempted to deflect his advances by mentioning her boyfriend was nearby, Sullivan allegedly dismissed her concern, saying it "would only take a minute" and that her boyfriend need never find out. Florence also tried to put him off by telling him she was menstruating, but she says he brushed this aside with a disturbing and dismissive comment.

She says he then guided her into a bedroom. Florence told investigators she did not want to have sex with him and believes she expressed this, though she is uncertain how clearly she communicated her refusal. She described being in a state of complete panic throughout the encounter.

### Other Women Speak Out

Florence's account is not an isolated one. Two additional women stated they felt they had no real choice but to sleep with Sullivan in order to protect their modeling careers, accusing him of deliberately abusing his gatekeeping role in the industry.

"He was taking advantage of young people," one woman said plainly.

Another former model recounted attempting to leave a meeting after Sullivan propositioned her, only to discover the door was locked. She said he refused to let her leave until she began raising her voice in protest.

The majority of the women involved have chosen to remain anonymous, with several citing genuine fear of Sullivan and concern about potential repercussions if their identities were revealed.

### Investigation Corroborated by Records and Disclosures

Journalists working on the investigation were able to corroborate key details from the women's accounts through diary entries, police records, and other documentation, as well as through interviews with friends and family members the women had previously confided in.

The investigation also uncovered that eight women in total have made formal disclosures about Sullivan's conduct to either the Metropolitan Police or Essex Police. Sullivan was never charged as a result of any of these disclosures.

### Sullivan Admits Paying for Sex with Teenager

Separately, the investigation revealed that Sullivan has personally acknowledged paying for sex in the 1990s with a girl he claims he believed was between 16 and 17 years old. Sullivan was in his forties at the time of the encounter. Notably, paying for sex with a 16 or 17-year-old did not become illegal in the United Kingdom until 2003.

### Sullivan Resigns from West Ham

Sullivan, now 77, has categorically denied all allegations made against him. However, on the Saturday before the investigation's publication, and just hours after BBC Panorama and The Times informed him they intended to publish, Sullivan announced his resignation as joint chairman of West Ham United.

In a statement, he said he wished to dedicate his full attention to challenging what he characterized as "factually incorrect and entirely false, decades-old allegations" related to his personal life. He described the investigation as "fundamentally unfair."

Legal representatives for Sullivan have also disputed specific accounts, labeling Florence's detailed testimony as implausible.

### Broader Questions for Football Authorities

Beyond the individual allegations, the investigation raises important questions for football's governing bodies regarding what, if anything, was previously known about Sullivan's alleged behavior — and whether appropriate action was ever taken.

West Ham co-owner David Sullivan faces allegations of sexual exploitation from seven women, prompting his resignation as joint chair of the football club.

David Sullivan Accused of Sexual Exploitation by Multiple Wo

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West Ham Co-Owner David Sullivan Faces Serious Allegations of Sexual Exploitation Spanning Decades

## Teen Prodigy Sooryavanshi Named in India's T20 Squad

Fifteen-year-old batting phenomenon Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has been handed his first international call-up, earning a place in India's T20 squad set to tour England and Ireland. The selection marks a historic moment in Indian cricket, as the youngster stands on the verge of rewriting the record books.

### A Record-Breaking Opportunity

Should Sooryavanshi take the field during the tour, he would become the youngest player ever to represent India, surpassing a milestone held by the legendary Sachin Tendulkar. Tendulkar was 16 years and 205 days old when he made his international debut against Pakistan in a one-day international back in 1989 — a record that has stood for over three decades.

## IPL Heroics Seal the Deal

Sooryavanshi's meteoric rise to the national setup has been fueled by an extraordinary Indian Premier League campaign with the Rajasthan Royals. The left-handed batter amassed 776 runs across 16 innings, doing so at a jaw-dropping strike rate of 237.30. His explosive performances earned him the IPL's Most Valuable Player award, the Orange Cap as the tournament's leading run-scorer, and the Emerging Player of the Year honour.

His brilliance was not confined to the IPL alone. In February, Sooryavanshi contributed a stunning 175 as India triumphed over England in the Under-19 World Cup final.

### Selection Panel Full of Praise

India's selection panel chairman Ajit Agarkar was effusive in his praise for the teenager, highlighting just how naturally he has stood out among his peers.

"We've seen what he can do, almost single-handedly carrying Rajasthan Royals towards the play-offs," Agarkar said. "He had a great start and backed it up in a competition that is as competitive and high-pressure as it gets. He's a game-changer. We've got high hopes for him. He has picked himself."

## Shreyas Iyer Handed Captaincy

Alongside Sooryavanshi's landmark inclusion, the squad announcement also brought a significant leadership change. Shreyas Iyer has been appointed as India's new T20 captain, taking over from Suryakumar Yadav, who has been dropped from the squad entirely.

Yadav guided India to T20 World Cup glory in March, but the 35-year-old endured a difficult run with the bat both at the tournament and throughout the recent IPL season. Agarkar acknowledged the difficulty of the decision.

"It's a tough one, having just won the World Cup, but as happens after most World Cups, you try to reassess what your best way forward is," he explained. "We thought this was the best way forward."

Iyer himself has not featured in T20 international cricket since 2023, but he demonstrated his leadership qualities by steering the Kolkata Knight Riders to the IPL title in 2024 and guiding Punjab Kings to a runners-up finish in 2025.

## Key Absentees and Fresh Faces

Star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah and versatile all-rounder Hardik Pandya have both been rested for the tour. Their absence opens the door for uncapped pace bowler Prince Yadav, who receives his maiden call-up.

India are scheduled to play two T20 internationals in Ireland later this month before heading to England for a five-match T20 series in July.

### Full Squad

Shreyas Iyer (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Shivam Dube, Tilak Varma, Nitish Reddy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakravarthy, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Teen cricket sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi earns his first India T20 call-up, potentially breaking Sachin Tendulkar's record as India's youngest-ever player.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, 15, Gets First India T20 Call-Up

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Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, 15, Earns Historic First India T20 Call-Up

## 2026 World Cup Ticket Crisis: What's Really Going On?

One week before the most expansive World Cup in history gets underway, a troubling picture is emerging around match tickets — one defined by plummeting prices, unpredictable availability, and a stunning lack of transparency from football's governing body.

Despite bold claims that every fixture was sold out, thousands of tickets remain on the market across multiple platforms. The question on everyone's mind: are we headed toward a repeat of last summer's Club World Cup, where seats were slashed in price just to fill stadiums?

## Fifa's 'Sold Out' Claims Don't Add Up

Back in February, Fifa president Gianni Infantino confidently declared, "Every match is already sold out. We keep some tickets back for some last-minute sales, of course, but every match is sold out."

The reality tells a very different story.

BBC Sport has confirmed that tickets for matches involving lower-profile nations are now being listed well below face value — on Fifa's own official resale platform and across independent secondary marketplaces. Fifa itself has been accused of offloading unsellable inventory directly onto ticketing platform SeatGeek.

High-demand fixtures featuring footballing giants like Argentina, Brazil, England, Germany, and Spain are unlikely to pose any sellout concerns. However, even games involving the three host nations — Canada, Mexico, and the United States — are struggling. Only two of the nine host-nation fixtures have officially reached sold-out status.

The opening match between Mexico and South Africa still has more than 500 seats available through Fifa's face-value portal — each priced at a steep $2,273 (£1,725).

Matches featuring nations with limited international followings present an even greater challenge. Fixtures such as Bosnia-Herzegovina vs. Qatar, Cape Verde vs. Saudi Arabia, and Congo DR vs. Uzbekistan are among those generating minimal ticket demand.

## A Ticket-Buying Process Shrouded in Secrecy

Perhaps the most damaging aspect of this situation is the sheer opacity surrounding how tickets were priced and sold in the first place.

At no point during the ballot period was a clear pricing structure ever published. Fans who entered the lottery had no idea what they would be expected to pay until they were prompted to complete their purchase — a process one observer likened to "pin the tail on the donkey, but you don't even know what it costs to play."

Fifa employed variable pricing throughout the sales process — a model where prices are adjusted at different sales stages based on prior demand — rather than a straightforward dynamic pricing structure that adjusts in real time.

Making matters worse, stadium seating maps were quietly altered and new, higher-priced ticket categories were introduced without any public announcement. These premium rows, typically located in the front sections of venues, were priced approximately 50% higher than adjacent seats and were never made available during the original ballot window.

## Legal Scrutiny Mounts

The growing controversy has now attracted official legal attention. The attorneys general of both New York and New Jersey have formally launched an investigation into Fifa's ticketing practices, issuing a subpoena demanding the organization answer allegations of "artificially inflating prices" and "deliberately misleading fans."

According to documents filed as part of the subpoena, some supporters who successfully purchased tickets in one pricing tier were later issued seats in a lower, less valuable category — placed further from the pitch than what they had originally paid for.

The attorneys general contend that the entire process was a calculated effort to withhold critical information and keep fans in the dark about how and when they could actually secure seats.

## The Bigger Picture: Will Stadiums Sit Half-Empty?

Fifa's final open sales window launched in April, with the organization stating that additional tickets could be released right up until individual matches kick off. However, it provided no specifics — which games, which dates, or at what prices.

Independent tracking platform TicketData, which monitors major sporting events across the United States, has been following the situation closely and suggests the inventory picture is far more complicated than Fifa has publicly acknowledged.

With the tournament set to be the largest in World Cup history, the prospect of significant empty sections in stadiums would be a deeply embarrassing outcome — particularly given the enormous commercial machine behind it.

For now, the questions far outnumber the answers, and millions of football fans around the world are watching closely to see how this unfolds before the first whistle blows.

Thousands of 2026 World Cup tickets remain unsold as prices drop below face value. Fifa faces legal scrutiny over misleading pricing practices.

2026 World Cup Ticket Prices: Empty Seats and Chaos

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2026 World Cup Ticket Chaos: Empty Seats, Falling Prices, and Unanswered Questions

## Rugby World Mourns the Loss of Fergus Slattery

Blackrock College Rugby Football Club has confirmed the passing of Fergus Slattery, one of Ireland's most celebrated rugby players, at the age of 77. A towering figure in the history of Irish and international rugby, Slattery leaves behind a legacy that spanned decades and inspired generations.

## A Career Defined by Excellence

Born in Dun Laoghaire, just south of Dublin, Slattery made his international debut for Ireland against South Africa in 1970. Over the course of a remarkable 14-year international career, he earned 61 caps and captained his country on 18 occasions. Among the highlights of his tenure was leading Ireland on a triumphant tour of Australia in 1979, during which the side won seven of their eight matches, including both Test matches against the Wallabies.

Slattery was a key figure in Ireland's celebrated Triple Crown victory in 1982, cementing his status as one of the most decorated players of his era.

## A Lion Among Lions

Beyond his contributions to Irish rugby, Slattery distinguished himself in the iconic red jersey of the British and Irish Lions. He featured in the 1971 tour to New Zealand and the legendary 1974 tour to South Africa, the latter of which produced one of rugby's most storied achievements. That Lions squad — famously known as the 'Invincibles' — went unbeaten across all 22 matches of the tour. Slattery lost just one of his 25 appearances in Lions colours throughout his career.

He also represented the Barbarians on 18 occasions, including their iconic 1973 victory over the All Blacks — a match widely regarded as one of the greatest ever played.

## Tributes Pour In

Blackrock College paid an emotional tribute to the flanker, describing him as a player who did not merely wear the club jersey — he defined it.

> "An open-side flanker of extraordinary intelligence, courage and relentless competitiveness, he always seemed to arrive first where the contest was fiercest," the club's statement read.

The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) president John O'Driscoll called Slattery a "giant of Irish rugby who defined excellence in his era," adding that his leadership and commitment to the jersey set standards that continue to resonate with players today.

The British and Irish Lions also paid tribute, describing him as "an inspiration both on and off the pitch" and a valued member of the historic 1974 Invincibles.

## Humble Off the Field, Monumental in Achievement

Despite his extraordinary accomplishments, those who knew Slattery consistently praised his modesty and integrity. Blackrock described him as "modest in demeanour, yet monumental in achievement," noting that he never sought admiration but earned it universally from teammates, opponents, and supporters alike.

After retiring from international rugby, Slattery continued to serve Blackrock College and transitioned into broadcasting, spending nearly 15 years as a co-commentator on BBC Radio alongside Jim Neilly. Neilly recalled that Slattery's analytical mind translated seamlessly into the commentary booth.

"Given how he played, it was no surprise that Fergus' contributions were always insightful and bang on the money," said Neilly.

## A Lasting Legacy

Inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2007, Fergus Slattery's place among the all-time greats of the game is beyond dispute. His passing marks the end of an era, but his influence on Irish rugby — and the global game — will endure for generations to come.

Ireland and British & Irish Lions flanker Fergus Slattery has passed away at 77. Remembered as one of rugby's all-time greats with 61 caps and Lions glory.

Rugby Legend Fergus Slattery Dies Aged 77

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Rugby Legend Fergus Slattery Passes Away at 77

## Liverpool's New Era: Iraola Ready to Ignite Anfield

Andoni Iraola is poised to be officially unveiled as Liverpool's new head coach this week, with the club moving decisively to secure his services following the departure of Arne Slot on Saturday. A verbal agreement with the Spanish manager was reportedly reached by Tuesday, signaling the dawn of a new chapter at one of football's most storied clubs.

Iraola arrives at Anfield on the back of a remarkable campaign with Bournemouth, where he guided the south-coast club to a sixth-place Premier League finish — an achievement that earned them European football for the very first time in their history. His brand of energetic, attacking football has caught the attention of clubs far beyond Bournemouth, and Liverpool have moved fast to make him their man.

## Murphy Backs Iraola to Reignite Liverpool's Spirit

Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy has welcomed the appointment with genuine enthusiasm, expressing confidence that Iraola's arrival will breathe fresh life into a squad that appeared to stagnate toward the end of Slot's tenure.

"Watching Bournemouth play this season, there's every reason to believe he'll bring that same courageous, front-foot mentality to Liverpool," Murphy said. "He presses teams with intensity, plays with high energy, and creates attacking football — that's exactly what the fans have been craving."

Murphy also addressed the fractured relationship between the Liverpool fanbase and Slot's style of play, suggesting the timing of the change was right.

"When supporters become disillusioned with a manager and begin turning against him, you're only delaying the unavoidable," he noted. "Bringing in Iraola gives the fans genuine excitement heading into a new season, rather than anxiety. That positive atmosphere makes a real difference from day one."

## Reservations Remain Over 'Big Club' Experience

Despite the widespread optimism, Murphy was candid about certain concerns surrounding Iraola's readiness for the step up to one of the world's biggest clubs — a challenge that has tripped up several managers in recent Premier League history, most notably Thomas Frank following his move from Brentford to Tottenham Hotspur.

"Managing a club of Liverpool's magnitude is a completely different world," Murphy acknowledged. "He'll quickly discover how all-consuming the spotlight is — every decision, every word, every result will be examined locally and globally. That's something no smaller club can truly prepare you for."

Murphy also raised questions about whether Iraola's high-intensity system can be sustained across a grueling schedule of matches every few days.

"The kind of relentless energy we saw under Jurgen Klopp — the dynamic full-backs, the pressing midfielders, the relentless attackers — demands elite physical conditioning," he said. "The current squad lacks that level of dynamism, so the summer transfer window will be absolutely critical for Liverpool."

## Fans Embrace the Excitement of a New Project

Despite the questions, supporters appear to be embracing the appointment with an enthusiasm that had been largely absent throughout much of last season.

Peter Bolster from the Spion Kop podcast captured the mood perfectly when he told BBC Radio Merseyside: "I'm surprised by how excited I actually am. For much of last season, I dreaded watching Liverpool play — going to Anfield felt like a chore. Now, whatever happens next, I feel genuinely excited again. Iraola might turn out to be the perfect fit, or it might not work in two years' time, but right now the project has me buzzing — and that's all a fan ever wants to feel."

Liverpool fan Ian Walker offered a more measured perspective, acknowledging the difficult nature of the role while wishing the new manager well.

"The style of play last season had to change — that much was clear," Walker said. "But this job has broken people before. Even Klopp, who was beloved by everyone, eventually had to walk away. I hope Iraola has the resilience to handle everything that comes with managing Liverpool."

## The Perfect Stylistic Fit?

Following Slot's exit, Liverpool were clear in their priorities: they wanted a manager whose philosophy aligned with the attacking, aggressive football the club built its recent success upon under Jurgen Klopp. Iraola, widely regarded as one of the most progressive tactical minds in European football, appears to tick that box convincingly.

Ste Plunkett from The Redmen TV told BBC Radio Merseyside that the appointment made perfect sense given the talent pool available.

"Of all the managers out there, Iraola is the most natural fit for what Liverpool want to be," he said. "Last season, the manager and the squad never truly suited each other. This summer's recruitment will matter enormously, but Iraola goes into Europe without the baggage of past failures — he'll approach it fresh, fearless, and invigorated."

## Context: Liverpool's Turbulent Second Season Under Slot

Slot's first season at Anfield was a triumph — the club lifted a record-equalling 20th league title in style. However, his second campaign unraveled dramatically, with Liverpool finishing fifth in the Premier League, a staggering 25 points behind champions Arsenal. The decline in both performance and atmosphere made a managerial change inevitable.

Now, with Iraola on the verge of taking charge, Liverpool fans are allowing themselves to dream again — hopeful that the Spaniard's bold, dynamic approach will restore the electric identity that made Anfield one of the most feared destinations in world football.

Andoni Iraola is close to becoming Liverpool's new head coach. Fans and pundits share their excitement and concerns about the Spanish manager's arrival at Anfie

Iraola Set to Bring Hope and Excitement Back to Liverpool

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Iraola's Liverpool Appointment Sparks Fresh Hope Among Anfield Faithful

The biggest World Cup in history starts on 11 June and there are more ways to follow it on the BBC than ever before.

With 48 teams in action, up from 32, there will be a record 104 games to be played across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

There will be 54 matches shown live on the BBC , including the final on 19 July, with 92 games on BBC Sounds and every single match covered on the BBC Sport website and app.

On top of that, there will be new innovations, regular shows - with England, Scotland and the other 46 nations all being covered - plus more on our dedicated BBC Football YouTube , external channel.

Here is the guide on how to follow the Fifa World Cup 2026 on the BBC.

Everything you need to know about the World Cup

Published How to watch the games live Image caption, Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman, Gabby Logan and Alex Scott will be fronting BBC Sport's television coverage

There will be 54 live games shown on BBC One or Two, with all of them available on BBC iPlayer - in UHD - and the BBC Sport website and app.

They include Scotland's group games against Haiti and Brazil - and England's match with Ghana.

The Three Lions' games in the last 32, last 16 and semi-final - if they get that far - will all be on the BBC. The final, as usual, will be shown on both the BBC and ITV.

Find out who all of the BBC's pundits will be here.

For peak-time matches there will be the option of watching games with BBC Radio 5 Live commentary on the Red Button, iPlayer and website.

And if you're watching online and only start watching in the middle of the game - don't worry, every match will feature chapters, marking the best moments to catch up on instantly.

There is an all-new way to watch matches via the BBC Sport website - with the Fifa World Cup 3D experience.

You are in total control of the angles and can relive goals as your favourite player - plus watch tactics unfold in real time - with side-by-side stats and player data.

There will be live commentary on every World Cup game (except for the clashing final group games, when one of the two matches being played simultaneously will be broadcast live in full, with updates from the other) on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds.

The BBC will have a Football Daily podcast every day of the World Cup, released at 06:00 BST, while from then until 09:00, Rick Edwards will be live in Los Angeles for 5 Live Breakfast.

There will be two episodes of The Wayne Rooney Show every week - and a 606 every week too.

BBC Radio Scotland will will have a daily podcast every morning - plus YouTube live shows throughout the group stages - and extended programming on the radio on game days.

Special editions of The Saturday Show from Boston, Off the Ball and Breaking the News are on the agenda.

There are also offerings on BBC Radio nan Gàidheal and BBC ALBA's YouTube page.

And Sunday League manager Steve Bracknall has six World Cup specials of Game's Gone: The Steve Bracknall Podcast , plus reaction to home nations games.

To find a home nations commentary, you can say to your smart speaker 'ask BBC Sounds to play the England or Scotland match' or request it to play the radio station you want.

And BBC World Service will have a Global World Cup podcast three times a week. The Sport Today (Monday to Friday) and Sportsworld (Saturday and Sunday) shows will be broadcast to more than 66 million listeners worldwide on location from host cities.

On the BBC website, all 104 games will have live text commentaries - even those at 03:00 BST for all the night owls.

As well as that, you can watch and listen to any of the BBC live games on the page. There will be highlights of every match.

There will be a daily live page every day from 07:00 BST - with reaction, talking points, polls and all the colour from the World Cup.

Plus BBC Sport will have a World Cup predictor game, with the chance to enter a prize draw to win a signed football, a daily 'name the player' quiz and player raters on every game.

We will also have a 'Shorts' video tab in the BBC Sport app , which is a new way for fans to watch bite-sized highlights, sharp analysis, explainers and get exclusive behind-the-scenes access. Users can choose this to be the app's default landing page.

And the BBC's World Cup page can be your home of following the groups, schedules, fixtures, scores and results - and even plot England or Scotland's route to the final here.

The biggest World Cup in history starts on 11 June and there are more ways to follow it on the BBC than ever before.

World Cup 2026: How to follow on the BBC

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## Paralympic Athlete's Tragic Death Leads to Corporate Manslaughter Sentencing

A sentencing hearing at London's Old Bailey has heard harrowing details surrounding the death of a Paralympic shot putter, with prosecutors describing the fatal accident as entirely foreseeable and preventable.

Abdullah Hayayei, a 36-year-old wheelchair-using athlete from the United Arab Emirates who competed in shot put and lived with cerebral palsy, lost his life in July 2017 when a training cage structure collapsed during a gust of wind at a sports facility in Newham, London. He had been preparing for the World Para Athletics Championships when a 25kg metal bar broke free from the collapsing structure and struck him on the head. He died at the scene.

## UK Athletics and Former Official Face Sentencing

UK Athletics, which organized the training event, is now being sentenced for corporate manslaughter. Keith Davies, 78, the organization's former head of sport, faces sentencing separately for breaching health and safety legislation. Both parties entered guilty pleas at an earlier hearing this year.

Prosecuting barrister John Price KC told Judge Richard Marks KC that the shot-putting cage involved in the collapse had been assembled with critical base support components missing. When the wind struck the structure, it gave way entirely, with catastrophic consequences.

Price further told the court that Davies had claimed the equipment had been put together in accordance with manufacturer instructions — a claim the prosecution challenged directly.

"At the very least, he ought to have known that it was incorrect," Price argued. "The evidence shows he actually knew it, and therefore this was not a truthful statement."

An expert who examined the Newham site following the accident confirmed that several bolts were absent from the structure. Prosecutors also suggested there existed an established "culture and practice" of assembling the cage without its required components — a pattern that made the tragedy all but inevitable.

"It was an accident waiting to happen," Price told the court.

## Widow's Heartbreaking Impact Statement

Among the most powerful moments of the hearing was the reading of a victim impact statement submitted by Badriah Rashid Zayed Al-Yahyaei, Mr. Hayayei's widow, who described the devastating toll her husband's death has taken on their family.

Left to raise five young children on her own, she recounted the shock and disbelief she experienced upon learning of his death.

"It was a huge shock to me because I was waiting for the news of his victory and success," she wrote. "Suddenly the news reached me. I could not comprehend it at first and refused to believe it, and today that moment is still in my mind."

She laid the responsibility squarely on those who failed to uphold basic safety standards.

"What happened was a result of gross negligence that could have been avoided had safety rules been adhered to. My husband went out to represent his country, raise the name of the UAE, and returned as a corpse."

## UK Athletics' Response Criticized as 'Deeply Unworthy'

The prosecution reserved particularly sharp criticism for a legal statement UK Athletics produced in the years following the incident, calling it "a deeply unworthy document by a national sporting body and one of which it should be ashamed."

According to Price, the statement attempted to deflect responsibility entirely onto Davies and even directed blame toward the Newham venue itself — an approach the prosecutor found unacceptable given the organization's own acknowledged guilt.

## Davies Expresses Remorse

Representing Davies, barrister Mark Balysz KC informed the court that his client had submitted a personal letter ahead of sentencing, expressing profound remorse over the athlete's death.

"I have woken every night thinking about his loss, and his poor family," Davies wrote. "These feelings have intensified since I found out about the investigation for manslaughter."

Davies described the process of coming to terms with Hayayei's death as "so very hard."

The hearing is ongoing, with Judge Marks expected to deliver sentencing decisions on Tuesday.

UK Athletics faces corporate manslaughter sentencing after Paralympic shot putter Abdullah Hayayei was killed by a collapsed training cage in London in 2017.

Paralympic Athlete Death: UK Athletics Manslaughter Sentenci

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Paralympic Shot Putter's Death Called 'Accident Waiting to Happen' at UK Athletics Sentencing

## The Numbers Don't Lie: Women Shut Out of French Open Night Sessions

A striking pattern has emerged at Roland Garros that is impossible to ignore. All eight night session matches scheduled at this year's French Open have been handed exclusively to male players — continuing a streak that now stretches to 32 consecutive primetime slots without a single women's match.

The last time a women's match graced the prestigious evening slot on Court Philippe Chatrier was back in 2023. Since the single-match night format was launched in 2021, only four of the 60 available primetime slots have featured women's tennis — a ratio that has drawn sharp criticism from players, governing bodies, and fans alike.

## Top Players Speak Out Against the Inequality

The frustration within the women's game has been building steadily. Four-time Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka captured the mood perfectly when she admitted she doesn't even mentally connect the French Open with night matches — a damning reflection of how normalized the exclusion has become.

American world number five Jessica Pegula previously described the situation as repeatedly "hitting her head against the wall," while two-time Wimbledon finalist Ons Jabeur delivered a pointed remark, questioning whether the tournament's decision-makers "have daughters" — a comment she has now repeated for the second consecutive year without any meaningful change taking place.

Jelena Ostapenko, the 2017 French Open women's champion and one of the rare female players to have experienced the night session firsthand, has added her voice to the chorus calling for reform.

"I wish women's tennis could be shown more in those spots. The men always have the priority with the scheduling — they take the most popular slots and the bigger courts," Ostapenko told BBC Sport. "I like to play at night, especially when the stadiums are full. That energy is what we all play for."

### A High-Stakes Meeting Behind the Scenes

The persistence of this issue has prompted newly appointed WTA chief executive Valerie Camillo to take direct action. During a meeting at Roland Garros this week, Camillo sat down with French Open tournament director Amelie Mauresmo — herself a former women's world number one — to address the imbalance head-on.

The WTA characterized the conversation as open and productive. Camillo made clear her position that women's players have consistently delivered some of the most compelling and high-energy competition in world sport over recent seasons, and that the scheduling structure should reflect that quality.

## The Tournament's Justification Falls Flat

Despite mounting pressure, Mauresmo has repeatedly defended the current approach by pointing to the risk of women's matches concluding too quickly. With night session tickets priced between €60 and €280 (approximately £50 to £240), tournament organizers have expressed concern that a brisk two-set women's match could leave spectators feeling short-changed.

Mauresmo has also ruled out expanding the format to include two matches per evening session — a model already in use at the Australian Open and US Open — citing concerns about late finish times.

This reasoning, however, rings hollow to many observers. The French Open has already resisted calls for change despite vocal opposition from players, the WTA, and reportedly from broadcasters as well.

### The Osaka-Sabalenka Test Case

Attention now turns to whether a blockbuster fourth-round clash between Osaka and world number one Aryna Sabalenka will be considered for a night slot. Osaka herself expressed uncertainty, suggesting the coveted evening position seemed reserved for what she described as "popcorn matches."

If a meeting between a four-time Grand Slam champion and the reigning top-ranked women's player in the world doesn't qualify for primetime treatment, it raises serious questions about what ever would.

Notably, some elite players — including four-time French Open champion Iga Swiatek — have been known to prefer earlier scheduling, which adds a layer of complexity to the debate.

## Will Anything Actually Change?

The sad reality, as Ostapenko acknowledged, is that optimism is hard to sustain.

"I hope it will change," she said. "Even if it's not me playing, I would love to see women's matches in those slots. But honestly, I don't know that we will."

With 32 nights and counting, the French Open's scheduling choices send a message — whether intentional or not — about how much it truly values the women's game. The question now is whether the tournament will finally listen, or whether this conversation will simply resurface again in 2026.

All 32 consecutive French Open night sessions have featured men only. Players, the WTA, and fans demand answers over the glaring scheduling gender gap at Roland

French Open Night Sessions: 32 Matches, Zero Women

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32 Night Sessions and Zero Women: The French Open's Glaring Gender Blind Spot

## Liverpool Pull the Plug on Arne Slot After Two Turbulent Seasons

Just a fortnight ago, Arne Slot stood in front of reporters at Liverpool's AXA Training Centre and expressed full confidence that he would remain at the helm next season. Yet within days, that certainty was shattered. On a Saturday morning, Liverpool's sporting director Richard Hughes and FSG chief executive Michael Edwards delivered the news — Slot was out.

The dismissal caught the Dutchman completely off guard. His contract was not due to expire until the following summer, and right up until the final days of the campaign, Slot had been speaking openly about his plans for the club's evolution. His representatives, as recently as the day before the decision was made public, believed the manager retained the full backing of the club's leadership.

## A Season That Tested Everyone's Limits

The 2025-26 campaign will be remembered as one of Liverpool's most gruelling in recent memory. It began with the devastating and tragic loss of Diogo Jota, a moment that shook the entire football community. From there, the season descended into a series of challenges — a mounting injury crisis, 19 defeats across all competitions, and growing frustration from supporters inside Anfield, where boos became an increasingly familiar soundtrack.

Slot, who described it to BBC Sport in February as the "toughest season" of his career, handled the grief surrounding Jota's passing with dignity and composure. That alone earns him considerable respect. However, the on-field struggles proved impossible to ignore.

Perhaps the most damaging moment came when departing star Mohamed Salah appeared to take a thinly veiled swipe at Slot's management style through a social media post — one that was notably liked by several of his teammates. It was a public signal that the dressing room's faith in the head coach had eroded.

### A Disconnect in Style and Authority

Sources within the club pointed to a broader issue that had been simmering beneath the surface. One insider with experience of both the Klopp and Slot eras noted: "Arne's a great person, but you always felt he lacked that authority Jurgen had — and that became more evident when results on the pitch started suffering."

The repeated flat performances — culminating in a chorus of boos during Liverpool's match against Chelsea earlier in the month, which Hughes himself witnessed — underlined a growing disconnect between the team's output and the supporters' expectations.

## The Club's Vision Demands a Different Approach

At the heart of Liverpool's decision is a belief about where the club needs to go next. Having invested heavily in the squad — bringing in Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong, and Giovanni Leoni last summer, with Jeremy Jacquet already confirmed in a £60 million deal from Rennes — the club's leadership feels the next chapter calls for a more aggressive, front-foot style of football. In their assessment, Slot is simply not the manager to deliver that vision.

The exits of seasoned figures like Salah, Andy Robertson, and Ibrahima Konate further signal that Liverpool are entering a new phase — one that requires a different kind of leadership both tactically and emotionally.

## Questions for the Hierarchy Too

While Slot's departure may be justified on footballing grounds, Liverpool's decision-making process has not escaped scrutiny. Had the club acted sooner, club legend Xabi Alonso — widely admired by the fanbase — may have been a realistic option. Instead, Alonso signed a four-year deal with Chelsea, leaving Liverpool to pursue other targets.

Andoni Iraola, who was previously appointed by Hughes at Bournemouth, has emerged as the frontrunner for the role, with contact already made and his immediate availability reportedly a key factor in accelerating Slot's exit.

## Legacy Intact, Despite the Painful End

For all the controversy surrounding his sacking, Slot's legacy at Liverpool remains meaningful. He delivered the Premier League title in his very first season in charge — a feat that places him among an exclusive group of managers. He becomes the first Liverpool boss to be dismissed after winning the league title, a distinction that underscores just how complicated his story truly is.

As one observer noted, had his two seasons been reversed — a title-winning campaign followed by a Champions League qualification season — he would likely be celebrated as a mastermind. Instead, the numbers tell a stark story: Liverpool's points tally dropped from 84 in 2024-25 to just 60 in 2025-26, representing a swing of minus 24 — the largest single-season drop ever recorded by any ever-present Premier League side across two consecutive campaigns.

For Slot, there is reportedly no animosity toward the club. He leaves believing he was dealt an extraordinarily difficult hand. For Liverpool, the decision was made with great reluctance but, ultimately, with an eye firmly fixed on the future.

Liverpool's shock decision to sack Arne Slot after two seasons explained — from dressing room tensions to the club's bold new vision for the future.