Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from the Argentina national team, while Barcelona began the 2026-27 season with a 5-2 victory over Rayo Vallecano, led by doubles from Lamine Yamal and Raphinha.
Messi confirmed the news on social media, describing his decision as a major development for the national side. FIFA president Gianni Infantino paid tribute to the forward after the announcement, saying: “You Redefined the Beautiful Game”.
Barcelona’s win saw Yamal open his account for the new season with two goals in an impressive performance. Raphinha also scored twice as Barcelona produced a convincing result against Rayo Vallecano.
Elsewhere in the Premier League, Bukayo Saka scored shortly before the hour mark as champions Arsenal maintained their perfect start to the campaign with a 1-0 victory over Aston Villa at Villa Park. The result gave Mikel Arteta’s side back-to-back wins.
There was also significant transfer activity involving several major clubs.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City have signed Everton forward Iliman Ndiaye for a total fee of £65m. Romano also reported that Jack Grealish has returned to Everton on loan.
Juventus have signed Newcastle United striker Nick Woltemade on loan, with no buy-out clause, according to Romano. Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez has also joined Como on loan.
Chelsea forward Mykhailo Mudryk has moved to Tottenham Hotspur on loan with an option to buy, Romano said.
Liverpool have announced the signing of Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain for a reported £123m (€143.6m). The France forward is described as quick, strong, versatile and intelligent, and his move makes him the most expensive transfer of this summer’s window.
Barcola has already achieved a significant amount in his career, but there is an expectation that further progress is still to come following his move to Liverpool.
Manchester United have opened talks with Bruno Fernandes over a new contract for their inspirational captain. His current £220,000-a-week agreement is due to expire next summer.
Jadon Sancho would have to accept two contract conditions if he is to secure a return to Borussia Dortmund this summer. The former Manchester United outcast is reportedly nearing a possible move back to the German club.
Manchester City are exploring alternatives after Liverpool rejected an £80m offer for Cody Gakpo. City have also opened direct club-to-club talks with Chelsea over a possible deal for Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez, according to Sky in Italy.
Chelsea’s interest in AS Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara, 22, may be fading, according to Onze Mondial. RMC Sport have reported interest from Chelsea in AS Roma midfielder Manu Kone, while L’Equipe have referred to another “priority” midfield target for the London club.
At Manchester United, Kobbie Mainoo has established himself as one of the team’s most important players after falling out of favour under Ruben Amorim. The club are also believed to be considering further additions. Michael Carrick said United are “always looking for more” in the transfer market and did not rule out further signings this summer.
Former Manchester United striker Louis Saha has claimed Victor Osimhen is still “waiting” for the club to make its move before the 1 September deadline. Saha also suggested that Benjamin Sesko remains part of Manchester United’s planning.
Jude Bellingham has spoken positively about his role under Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid, saying he is enjoying the “freedom” of his new position. His form is also among the subjects discussed in Adam Bate’s latest Euro Debrief column, which reviews key stories from recent matches across the continent.
The 2026 World Cup is approaching, but a number of players are facing a race to recover in time to represent their countries. Rodrygo has been ruled out for Brazil, adding to concern over the availability of injured players.
Karim Benzema has agreed to terminate his lucrative contract with Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal. The 38-year-old football legend is reportedly considering retirement, with the deal said to be worth £85m.
Folarin Balogun is being linked with Everton after forging his own route through France and the United States. His individual training sessions with coach Saul Isaksson-Hurst require flexibility: although Isaksson-Hurst may prepare a detailed plan, Balogun, described as an intense and analytical character, often arrives with his own ideas.
Fixtures for 1 September include Al Hilal against Al-Ahli SFC in the Saudi Pro League at 18:00 UTC, followed by HEBC against Borussia Dortmund in the DFB Pokal at 18:45 UTC.
