Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from the Argentina national team, revealing the decision in a social media update that quickly became the biggest football story of the past 24 hours.
The news prompted a tribute from FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who praised the former Argentina captain and said: “You Redefined the Beautiful Game”.
Messi’s announcement came amid a busy day of club news, with Barcelona recording a convincing 5-2 victory over Rayo Vallecano. Lamine Yamal opened his account for the 2026-27 season with two outstanding goals, while Raphinha also scored twice as Barcelona continued their perfect start.
In the Premier League, champions Arsenal maintained their 100% record with a 1-0 win against Aston Villa at Villa Park. Bukayo Saka scored shortly before the hour mark to secure consecutive victories for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Manchester City are exploring several major deals. According to Fabrizio Romano, the club have agreed to sign Everton forward Iliman Ndiaye for a total fee of £65m. City have also opened direct club-to-club talks with Chelsea over a move for Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez, according to Sky in Italy.
Liverpool have completed the signing of France winger Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain for a reported £123m (€143.6m). That deal makes Barcola the most expensive transfer of the summer window and Liverpool’s second-biggest signing.
Barcola, who has moved from PSG to Liverpool, is regarded as quick, strong, versatile and intelligent. Despite already achieving a considerable amount in his career, there is an expectation that the 23-year-old still has more to offer.
Liverpool rejected an £80m bid from Manchester City for Cody Gakpo, leading City to consider alternative options for the winger.
Manchester United have begun discussions with Bruno Fernandes over a new contract. The club’s inspirational captain currently earns £220,000 per week, with his existing agreement due to expire next summer.
United have also been told that Victor Osimhen is “waiting” for the club to make an approach before the 1 September deadline. Former Manchester United striker Louis Saha claimed the Nigeria forward is still waiting for the Red Devils to act, while Michael Carrick said the club are “always looking for more” in the transfer market.
Kobbie Mainoo, who had fallen out of favour under Ruben Amorim, has since established himself as one of Manchester United’s most important players. Elsewhere, Jadon Sancho would have to accept two contractual conditions if he is to complete a possible return to Borussia Dortmund this summer.
A number of deals have also been reported by Romano. Jack Grealish has rejoined Everton on loan, while Juventus have taken Newcastle United striker Nick Woltemade on loan without a buy-out clause. Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez has joined Como on loan, and Chelsea forward Mykhailo Mudryk has moved to Tottenham Hotspur on loan with an option to buy.
Chelsea’s interest in AS Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara, 22, may be fading, according to Onze Mondial. RMC Sport have reported interest from the London club in AS Roma midfielder Manu Kone, while L’Equipe have referred to another “priority” midfield target.
Former Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun has been linked with Everton after building his career through moves involving France and the United States. His coach, Saul Isaksson-Hurst, says Balogun’s individual training sessions require flexibility because the intense and analytical forward often brings his own ideas to the work.
Karim Benzema has reportedly agreed to end his lucrative contract with Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal. The 38-year-old European football legend is considering retirement, with his deal said to be worth £85m.
Jude Bellingham is enjoying the “freedom” of his new role at Real Madrid under Jose Mourinho and is thriving as a number 10. His performances feature in Adam Bate’s latest Euro Debrief column for Sky Sports, which reviews key stories from recent matches across the continent.
The 2026 World Cup is approaching, but several injured players are facing a race to recover in time to represent their countries. Rodrygo has already been ruled out for Brazil, increasing concerns over who will be fit and available for the tournament.
Today’s listed fixtures include Al Hilal against Al-Ahli SFC in the Saudi PL at 18:00 UTC and HEBC against Borussia Dortmund in the DFB Pokal at 18:45 UTC, both on 1 September 2026.
