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The centre-back has been mocked in the parliament of Ghana as well as every Premier League ground, but is now reaping the rewards for never giving up

Little more than two years ago, the Europa League felt like the straw that had broken Harry Maguire's Manchester United career. There appeared to be no way back for him after his nightmare displays in United's quarter-final elimination at the hands of Sevilla. But having already changed the narrative of his time at Old Trafford from disaster to redemption last year, Maguire has emerged as the cult hero of United's thrilling journey to this season's Europa League final, their most unlikely flagbearer as they head to Bilbao to face Tottenham.

Maguire's defensive contributions have been key to United remaining the only unbeaten team across all three European competitions, and yet it is his attacking contributions that have stood out the most and which make him Ruben Amorim's not-so-secret weapon against Spurs.

Now that he is a formidable force in both boxes and one of the most influential figures for United as they prepare for the match that could save their abysmal season, it is worth revisiting that harrowing tie with Sevilla in April 2023 which looked like being Maguire's last stand for the Red Devils. It certainly puts his stunning turnaround into context…

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  Shellshocked in Seville

  Despite still being captain at the time, Maguire was on the fringes of Erik ten Hag's team heading into that tie with Sevilla. In some games he had even been demoted to the fifth choice centre-back, with Luke Shaw chosen ahead of him on the occasions when Ten Hag fielded a back three.

  Maguire, though, was brought on for the injured Raphael Varane when United were 2-0 up against the Spaniards in the quarter-final first leg at Old Trafford. The Red Devils were coasting and looked to have one foot in the semi-finals, only for them to concede two goals within six minutes as Maguire was credited with the equaliser after turning the ball into his own net. He was desperately unlucky, as the ball bounced off Youssef En-Nesyri's head and then Maguire's to wrong-foot David de Gea. Maguire knew nothing about it, but it seemed to sum up his plight at the time: nothing would go his way.

  Things got even more desperate the following week amid the cauldron of noise of the Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, when Maguire passed the ball back to De Gea and was immediately intercepted, leading to En-Nesyri scoring in the eighth minute. The manner of the goal completely rocked United's confidence and they sunk to a 3-0 defeat and 5-2 loss on aggregate. Lisandro Martinez and Varane's injuries in the first leg was a big factor in their downfall, but more than a few United fans commented that everything had been going well before Maguire came on.

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  'Unacceptable' abuse

  Maguire started just one more game that season and was an unused substitute in the FA Cup final defeat by Manchester City. He was, therefore, a firm favourite to leave the club in the summer, especially after Ten Hag took the captaincy off him and gave it to Bruno Fernandes. West Ham were the keenest suitors and United accepted a £30 million ($40m) offer, but Maguire refused to go. He was not going to let the abuse, which was at its height at the time, get to him.

  As a reminder of how bad it got for Maguire, while many players are targeted on social media by supporters and pundits, almost none hear their name mentioned in parliament as a metaphor for the country's struggling economy. In 2022, Ghanaian MP Isaac Odongo compared his country's vice-president to the much-maligned defender, calling Maguire "the biggest threat at the centre of the Manchester United defence, tackling Manchester players and giving assists to opponents."

  A year later, Maguire scored an own goal for England in a friendly against Scotland and was humiliated by the Hampden Park crowd. Gareth Southgate called out the abuse, saying: "I've never known a player treated the way he is. It's a joke. They've created something that's beyond anything I have ever seen." Maguire's mother even intervened, calling the treatment "disgraceful and totally unacceptable" as well as claiming "what Harry receives has gone far beyond football."

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  Changing the narrative

  Speaking before Wednesda's final, Maguire sought to play down talk of him being revitalised: "I think probably it was a six to 12 month period where my form wasn't as good as it had been in the previous two years where it was excellent," he told reporters. "I think people still talk a lot about this comeback and things like that, but it's been two years now that I've been performing at high level. It's been a couple of years now. I feel in a good place. I feel really comfortable at this club and my surroundings and the pressure that's involved in it. It's an amazing club and I'm really privileged and proud to be part of it."

  After choosing to stay at United in the summer of 2023, Maguire pledged to "fight for my place" at United, and it is fair to say he won that battle. First he convinced Ten Hag and turned the previous situation upside down by winning his place back at the expense of Varane, who had kept him out of the team the previous season. Ten Hag called Maguire "a great leader, a very good defender, very comfortable on the ball", which was quite the turnaround considering he had taken the armband off him months earlier.

  He also changed the mind of the Ghanaian MP Odongo, who apologised to Maguire in November 2023 by saying: "Today, Maguire has turned the corner, he's a transformational footballer." Maguire was one of United's most consistent players in a team severely lacking in it, but his redemption story got somewhat lost amid United's worst league finish in Premier League history and as he missed the FA Cup final triumph over City due to injury, which also led to him missing out on Euro 2024 with England.

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  Lethal weapon

  Maguire was dealt a further setback in the summer as United signed two new centre-backs in Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui, and the ex-Leicester City star thus struggled for gametime early in the campaign. Rumours began to circle in October, just as Ten Hag was about to lose his job, that United were willing to sell Maguire for as little as £10m ($13m)in the January transfer window.

  He returned from injury to find a new coach in Ruben Amorim, and although the Portuguese rotated his squad frequently in his early days to assess as many players as possible, he soon realised that Maguire was a defensive rock who he could not do without as the defender delivered courageous and confident displays away from home against Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal.

  And so instead of selling him in January, United triggered the one-year extension in his contract. "He coped very well with his struggles,” Amorim said upon announcing the extension. "There are moments in the career of a player that are different. And when you look at our team, we are starving for leaders on the pitch."

  While Amorim instantly saw Maguire's defensive quality, he soon noticed that he could be a real asset going forward, too. Having seen him score crucial headers against Leicester City and Ipswich Town, Amorim decided to deploy the centre-back as a centre-forward when he brought him on as a late substitute against Nottingham Forest in April.

  United lost the game 1-0, but Maguire fashioned three chances in his nine minutes on the pitch and had an expected goals (xG) total of 0.6, more than Rasmus Hojlund had in his previous 15 appearances.

  "Harry Maguire, when he is attacking set-pieces, is maybe the best player in the team," Amorim explained. "Inside the box, you are not a defender, you are a striker. Put one man who is really good in there to score the goal."

England were dumped out of the Under-17 European Championships on goal difference despite beating Czech Republic 4-2 at Arena Egnatia on Monday.

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• England U17 beat Czech Republic 4-2
• Dowman, Rodriguez, Howell & Gray score
• Bow out of U17 European Championships

• TELL ME MORE

  England began the game like a house on fire and took the lead in the fifth minute when Arsenal wonderkid Max Dowman went on a mazy run, before superbly firing into the corner from a very tight angle.

  The in-form Alejandro Gomez Rodriguez bagged his fourth goal of the tournament when he calmly slotted home 10 minutes later.

  Harry Howell bent in a superb effort from 15 yards eight minutes before the break, before Harry Gray pounced on a howler from Czech goalkeeper Adam Paar three minutes later.

  The Czechs improved after the interval and grabbed a consolation just before the hour mark when Martin Palascak's header nestled in the far corner.

  Gray and Rodriguez spurned good opportunities to put more gloss on the scoreline, and that came back to haunt them when Hugo Sochurek volleyed in one minute from time.

  That meant their goal difference was one worse than second-placed Belgium, who lost 2-1 to group winners Italy. England are now out of the competition after picking up a win, a draw, and a loss apiece.

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  THE MVP

  Nobody covered themselves in glory in the second half from an England perspective, but Arsenal prodigy Dowman oozed quality at times and looks a real talent.

• THE BIG LOSER

  England's second-half performance lacked maturity and quality as they inexplicably let the Czech Republic back into the game. While they were never in danger of losing this match, their indiscipline and lack of composure saw them prematurely fall out of the tournament.

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  WHAT COMES NEXT?

  England will now have to lick their wounds and prepare for the Under-17 World Cup later this year.

As Leeds United continue their push for Championship promotion, one Champions League club have reportedly already made contact in pursuit of dealing Daniel Farke a frustrating blow once the summer rolls around.

Leeds transfer news

With just 11 games remaining, the Whites sit top of the Championship with five points separating themselves and Burnley in third. As things stand, Farke’s side will be playing in the Premier League next season. As Elland Road knows so well, however, nothing is guaranteed in England’s second division and Leeds will be desperate to get back to winning ways after a frustrating 1-1 draw against West Bromwich Albion last time out.

Meanwhile, the 49ers could yet commence their search for potential summer reinforcements sooner rather than later with the Premier League in mind. All it takes is one look at Southampton, Ipswich Town and Leicester City to know just how important recruitment is and Leeds will be hoping to avoid repeating their mistakes.

At the same time, however, the Yorkshire club will also be focused on keeping hold of key players following reports that one man has particularly attracted interest from around Europe.

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By
Ethan Lamb

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According to Football Transfers in the Netherlands, Feyenoord have now made contact over signing Pascal Struijk this summer and are committed to signing the Leeds defender ahead of interest from Tottenham Hotspur in the coming months.

A key man under Farke, Struijk is a player who’s ready to step back in the Premier League. Leeds will just be hoping that it’s with them rather than Spurs. The interest of Feyenoord could also spoil that plan altogether, with the Dutch club likely to be in a position to offer some form of European football next season.

Given that their own defensive star, David Hancko, has received reported interest of his own from the likes of Liverpool, Feyenoord could yet be forced to go all out in pursuit of a replacement this summer.

Leeds must keep hold of "crucial" Struijk

If Leeds needed any further motivation to earn their way back into the Premier League this season, then recent interest in Struijk’s signature should be more than enough encouragement. A place back in England’s top flight could quickly fend off any interest from Spurs and end Feyenoord’s attempts to welcome the Dutchman back to his home country this summer.

Farke has been aware of the defender’s importance for some time, telling reporters in the early stages of last season: “He adapted well to my demands and he’s played a crucial part. We don’t have to talk about his skills with the ball. I’m very pleased with his development.”

If there were still some waiting to be convinced about his quality too, then Struijk’s recent last-gasp winner against promotion rivals Sunderland should have put an end to that doubt once and for all.

With Feyenoord chasing his signature, promotion is more important than ever if Leeds want to keep hold of Struijk this summer.

Chelsea’s struggles continue.

Sunday’s 1-0 defeat at Arsenal was the Blues’ fourth successive Premier League defeat away from home, failing to score once again, rarely threatening David Raya’s goal all afternoon.

Enzo Mareca’s side remain fifth, which would be enough to see them sneak into the Champions League, but, considering their May fixtures are Liverpool (H), Newcastle (A), Manchester United (H) and Nottingham Forest (A), a huge April awaits.

One Chelsea player in particular certainly isn’t pulling their weight, evoking memories of a flop from the past.

Fernando Torres' Chelsea career

In one of the most controversial and era-defining transfers of a generation, Fernando Torres moved from Liverpool to Chelsea for £50m on deadline day in January 2011, at the time the sixth-most expensive transfer in history and a Premier League record deal.

Fair to say, this move did not pay off, considering the Spaniard scored just 45 goals in 172 appearances for the Blues, with Ryan Bailey of Bleacher Report outlining that he is widely considered a ‘flop’.

Well, given that fee, and considering how good Torres had previously been at Liverpool, it’s easy to understand why.

In a remarkably similar number of minutes at both clubs, Torres scored almost twice as many goals for Liverpool, with then teammate Jamie Carragher claiming that the Spaniard was “the best striker in the world” during his time at Anfield.

Fast-forward to the present day, are Chelsea faced with a similar conundrum, having signed one of the world’s best forwards, who simply isn’t living up to expectations at Stamford Bridge?

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Chelsea have found their new Fernando Torres

Christopher Nkunku joined Chelsea from RB Leipzig for a reported fee of £52m in June 2023 and did so with sky-high expectations.

The Frenchman netted 70 goals and provided 47 assists during 172 appearances in Leipzig, named Bundesliga player of the season in 2021/22, winning the Torjägerkanone award as the division’s top-scorer the following campaign.

As a result, Christian Schmidt of Opta’s the Analyst labeled Nkunku one of football’s most-exciting talents, adding that he has ‘no weaknesses’, while Raphael Honigstein of the Athletic noted that his ‘positional versatility’ is one of his biggest strengths.

Well, the fact he’s been unable to cement any position since moving to Chelsea has become one of his biggest problems, with pundit Craig Burley describing him as a “total waste of money” on ESPN.

The Frenchman got off to a miserable start, suffering a long-term knee injury during a pre-season friendly against Borussia Dortmund in Chicago, delaying his Premier League debut until Christmas Eve 2023.

Thus, Nkunku was never really able to establish any rhythm last season although, right now, with Noni Madueke, Nicolas Jackson and Marc Guiu all sidelined, he is a regular in the team, but Malik Ouzia of the Evening Standard states that he once again ‘offered nothing’ during Sunday’s defeat to Arsenal.

So, let’s assess Nkunku’s statistics on a season-by-season basis.

Simply looking at the table above, Nkunku’s statistics aren’t too bad, considering he’s scored 14 goals in all competitions, thereby averaging a goal every 129 minutes.

However, these are certainly skewed by his performances in the UEFA Conference League, with seven of his 14 goals coming in this competition, on target against Servette twice, FC Noah twice, Gent, Panathinaikos and Heidenheim, as well as a hat-trick in the EFL Cup against Barrow which, without wanting to disrespect any of those teams, is certainly skewing the data.

Coincidentally, Torres’ numbers at Stamford Bridge were also skewed by his efforts in cup action; only 20 of his 45 Blues goals came in the Premier League.

So, let’s analyse only Nkunku’s Premier League statistics.

As the table outlines, Nkunku’s statistics this season are very middling, not standing out for any attacking metric, his negative goals – xG figure certainly a concern.

Despite reported interest from Bayern Munich, Chelsea chose to keep hold of Nkunku in January, but surely, if they receive any sort of offer for him come the summer, the Blues will be best off cutting their losses.

Like Torres, he’s been nothing but an expensive flop, one who has had a far more enjoyable time of it in the cups, than in the league.

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Mar 17, 2025

England's Lionesses have been dealt another huge blow to their Euro 2025 hopes as Millie Bright has withdrawn from selection for the tournament.

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• Bright will not be part of England's Euro 2025 squad
• Chelsea captain has been taking extended period of recovery
• Now withdraws from Lionesses selection this summer

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  Bright was initially included in Sarina Wiegman's squad for the penultimate round of Nations League fixtures this past week but withdrew to take "an extended period of recovery" after admitting that she was "mentally and physically" at her "limits". Now, the Chelsea captain has extended that period even longer, by choosing to make herself unavailable for selection for England at this summer's Euros.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  It continues what has been a shocking week of news for the Lionesses, kicked off by Mary Earps' stunning retirement at the end of May. reported that Wiegman wanted the goalkeeper to be part of her England squad this summer as the back-up to Hannah Hampton, but Earps chose to instead step away from international duty with immediate effect. Then, on Tuesday night came the news that Fran Kirby would also be hanging up her boots on an England front, having not made the cut for the Euros. To also lose Bright is a huge blow, especially considering the cumulative experience the dressing room will be without.

• WHAT BRIGHT SAID

  In a statement on social media, Bright wrote: "This is one of the hardest decisions I've ever had to make, but after careful thought and discussions with my team, I have decided to withdraw from selection for the England squad ahead of Euro 2025. Football has given me so much and representing my country has always been my greatest honour. My pride and ego tells me to go but I think the team and the fans deserve more.

  "Right now, I'm not able to give 100 per cent mentally or physically. As much as I want to be out there running through brick walls for England and fighting alongside my team-mates, stepping back is the right thing for my health, my future in the game and, most importantly, the team. It wouldn't be fair for me to take the place and opportunity away from another player who is ready and able to give everything for the badge and country.

  "I'll be supporting the team with everything I've got and hoping this incredible group of players will do the nation proud. Thank you to my team-mates, coaches and, most importantly, the fans for your unwavering supporting, it means the world to me."

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• DID YOU KNOW?

  The good news, at least, is that England do have a lot of depth at the centre-back position. Bright's absence likely paves the wave for Alex Greenwood to start alongside Leah Williamson in defence, though Esme Morgan got the nod there in Friday's win over Portugal. Jess Carter will also compete in that spot, while Bright's withdrawal could open the door for Lotte Wubben-Moy to be included in Wiegman's final squad.

Thomas Frank has sent a heartfelt farewell to Brentford fans after his move to Tottenham was confirmed.

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• Frank sends classy goodbye message
• Leaves after nine years
• Replaces Ange Postecoglou

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  Spurs have confirmed the appointment of Frank as their new manager after sacking Ange Postecoglou last week. The Australian guided Spurs to Europa League glory but finished 17th in the Premier League, and the Bees boss has been identified as the man to improve Spurs' domestic fortunes.

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• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Now, as his exit has been confirmed, Frank has posted a touching goodbye to the Bees. He joined the club as assistant manager in 2016 and was promoted to first-team head coach in 2018, guiding the club into the Premier League and keeping them up thereafter, and he has reserved special praise for owner Matthew Benham for having the faith to appoint him.

• WHAT FRANK SAID

  In his statement, Frank said: "To everyone associated with Brentford Football Club. The time has come for me to move on. But, even as I leave, I know I have left a big piece of my heart at Brentford, not just at the football club but with the community and, of course, the incredible and loyal supporters.

  "I want to extend my profound gratitude to the club for giving me the chance to pursue my dreams and for everyone involved who made the journey such a memorable one.

  "For my family and I, it has been a privilege to be allowed to be part of such a special community – it’s an experience and adventure that we will cherish for life. So, thank you. Whatever we have achieved, we have achieved together, and our success is built on unity, spirit, courage and ambition at every level of the club and amongst the fans.

  "Everybody has contributed, and every contribution has been invaluable. I am not just leaving a football club, I am saying goodbye to friends whose support through good and bad times I will carry with me always.

  "I would like to say a special word of thanks to Matthew Benham. His trust and friendship have meant so much and the fact he gave me a chance in English football means I will always owe him a debt of gratitude. Thank you, Matt.

  "So, while this is a goodbye, I hope the relationships I have built with everybody will be lasting ones and, of course, we will meet again in the wonderful world of football.

  "Thank you, Thomas."

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  WHAT NEXT?

  Frank's first match in charge of Spurs could come in a pre-season north London derby against Arsenal on July 31.

Nottingham Forest and owner Evangelos Marinakis now want to sign a “super” new forward this summer who could cost them in the region of £50 million, according to a recent report.

Forest suffer Chris Wood injury blow

Like every other team in the Premier League, Forest have been holding their breath in the hope that their players on international duty will return injury free. While the majority have done, the Reds suffered a blow on Monday morning, as striker Chris Wood had to be replaced in the second half of New Zealand’s second game due to picking up a hip injury.

Marinakis ready to break the bank to sign £63m star for Nottingham Forest

Forest have just added a big name new player to their list of potential striker targets for the summer.

By
Brett Worthington

Mar 24, 2025

Wood, who has scored 18 goals in the league this season, bagged a hat-trick for his national team earlier last week but didn’t have the same luck in the second game, as he could only last 54 minutes. Darren Bazeley, the New Zealand manager, spoke to the press on Monday and did confirm Wood had picked up an injury but held back on the details.

Nuno Espirito Santo will now be sweating on Wood’s fitness, as the Reds have an important FA Cup quarter-final game this Saturday before returning to league action.

Nottingham Forest want to sign "super" Ademola Lookman this summer

As the Reds wait for an update on Wood’s injury, the Premier League side are already working on their plans for the summer, and according to TEAMtalk, Nottingham Forest are interested in signing Ademola Lookman from Atalanta.

The recruitment staff have started to turn their attention to next season, and Marinakis has plans to make some major signings for the club, as he looks to push Forest further and challenge on the European stage.

Lookman is now a player that Forest are looking at and has emerged as a potential summer transfer target. The report states that the Tricky Trees have been monitoring Lookman for a while now and have been impressed by his performances.

At the minute, Forest are just interested, but should they qualify for the Champions League, they could become serious about signing the 27-year-old, who has been described as “super” by manager Gian Piero Gasperini despite a recent fallout with the player.

No talks have been held with the player or his representatives as of yet, but it appears the Nigeria international will leave Atalanta this summer. He is be available for between €60-70 million, which is roughly £50-58 million, a fee Forest are willing and capable to meet.

However, the Reds are not alone in their pursuit of Lookman, as Manchester United and Newcastle are also keen on signing the attacker. Meanwhile, Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan are keeping an eye on his situation as they try to beat the Premier League teams in the race. Forest’s interest in Lookman comes after the Reds are showing an interest in striker Victor Osimhen as well.

Tottenham Hotspur now want to steal a “very dangerous” forward from a rival Premier League club this summer, having now identified him as a priority target, according to a report.

Spurs looking to bring in attacking depth

There have been major doubts raised about Ange Postecoglou this season, with results falling far short of expectations, although the huge injury crisis the manager has been forced to deal with has not helped matters.

However, there have also been suggestions Postecoglou’s style are to blame for the scale of the injury problems, so if Spurs are to persist with the Australian next season, it could be a wise idea to bring in additional depth in attack.

One target the Lilywhites have in mind is Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman, who is expected to leave the Serie A side this summer, but there could be stiff competition for the Nigerian’s signature, amid interest from Barcelona and a number of Premier League clubs.

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By
Sean Markus Clifford

Mar 23, 2025

Sunderland attacking midfielder Chris Rigg has also emerged as an option, with a recent report revealing Tottenham are now leading the race for the 17-year-old, having submitted an opening bid of £38m.

According to a report from Spain, another target has now entered the frame, with Spurs looking to ‘steal’ Aston Villa forward Donyell Malen, who only moved to Villa Park in January, arriving from Borussia Dortmund for €25m (£21m).

Malen is viewed as an ideal option to improve Postecoglou’s frontline, with the forward’s speed and finishing ability making him a priority target, although he is likely to fetch a higher fee than the price Villa paid for him last winter.

Villa are said to be open to a sale if they receive an attractive offer, although it is unclear what sort of fee they would be looking for.

Malen's Villa career yet to take off

The Dutchman has only featured sporadically since arriving at Villa Park last month, making a number of appearances from the bench in the Premier League, and he is yet to pick up a goal or assist in all competitions.

As such, it is a little unusual for Tottenham to be linked with a move for the former Dortmund man so soon after his arrival in the Premier League, but there are indications he could be a solid signing if he is able to reignite his previous form.

During his time in the Bundesliga, the 26-year-old received high praise from former teammate Mario Götze, who said: “Donyell is extremely fast and very dangerous. If he has a chance, it’s usually a goal, too.”

The Netherlands international was also in fine form in front of goal last season, scoring 15 goals in all competitions. However, his slow start to life in England indicates it may be wise to continue monitoring his performances between now and the summer.

There are 365 days until the biggest sporting event in North American history, and the continent is prepping for a show

It’s June 11, 2026, and 100,000 fans have swarmed the revamped Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. take the field in a venue that feels simultaneously ancient and modern, one of soccer’s great cathedrals appropriately refurbished for a massive show. The eyes of the world are focused, watching as two teams kick off what is – by number of teams, not to mention scale and grandeur – the biggest soccer tournament ever.

The whistle blows, and we are underway. The World Cup has begun.

Anticipation for that scene has seemed so far in the distance for so long. But it’s now just 365 days away. What was once a date circled on the calendar – the kickoff of the most important soccer tournament in the world, to be held in North America – is becoming a tangible reality in the American sporting consciousness.

The World Cup is coming. It’s officially on the clock. And with exactly one year to go, there’s a prevailing sense that this country – this continent, as the U.S., Canada and Mexico ready to host 48 of the world’s best teams over five weeks – is prepared to put on the kind of show befitting of the beautiful game’s greatest event.

“We do have to operate with a sense of purpose and urgency,” said Pam Kramer, CEO of Kansas City's planning committee. “And June 11, 2026 is going to be here before you know it.

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  'The eyeballs of the world are on this'

  Every World Cup is a party. It’s as much a celebration as it is a soccer tournament. In its purest form, the World Cup is a vehicle for not only elite sport, but also national identity. Some sporting events are overstated, their importance hyped up for artificial reasons. The World Cup is not in that category. Everything stops.

  There’s a magnetism to a World Cup. Soccer supporters – already some of the most devout sports fans on the planet – become even more invested. And likewise, casual fans – those who normally don’t know, or don’t care – are also suddenly dialed in.

  These tournaments are defined by truly beautiful moments: fans coming together in celebration or shared agony; great teams completing memorable feats. Remarkable players defining their careers. There are famous penalty kick wins after 3-3 finals, and agonizing 7-1 defeats on home soil. There really isn’t such a thing as a World Cup. They are all immensely important, some more than others. And for the United States, this is as meaningful as it gets.

  Of course, that comes with immense pressure for organizers.

  “The eyeballs of the world are on this, and so we're taking everything we can from every input that we can,” said Georgia O'Donoghue, president of Atlanta’s host committee.

  And there are immense costs, and revenues, tied to the event. FIFA expects to generate nearly $9 billion in revenue next year, including $3.9 billion on media rights, $3 billion on tickets and hospitality and $1.8 million on marketing rights. The governing body, in turn, says the economic impact for the three host countries could exceed $40B.

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  'It is going to be studied and well-resourced'

  Logistics for a World Cup are a messy thing. Staging such an event requires, in effect, a reevaluation and sometimes overhaul of not only facilities but also, sometimes, entire cities. That’s difficult in the United States, metropolitan blocks, concrete freeways, rattling subway systems and all. But for the 16 host cities across three countries – including 11 in the U.S. – it’s a challenge that simply must be solved.

  It is a good thing, then, that host cities have been working on their facilities for years – some as soon as the U.S’s successful bid was ratified years ago.

  The biggest, and most pressing issue is that of stadiums. America has improved in its building and fleshing out of soccer-specific stadiums, but there are still extensive renovations required on a number of key venues. Most of the World Cup matches will be held in NFL venues.

  Kansas City’s Arrowhead Stadium will need seats removed to allow for the widening of the pitch – with temporary bleachers introduced for the 2025-26 NFL season. Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta needs new lights. There are concerns everywhere about ensuring that pitches are fitted with adequate turf. For some, that means growing real grass elsewhere for almost a year, then transplanting it into the stadium, and allowing it to bed into a field. Sound complicated? It is.

  “We started a 41-day kind of construction project below the current turf to lay the infrastructure… we will then install in ‘26 when the grass actually comes in the building.” Adam Fullerton, VP of Stadium Operations for Mercedes-Benz Stadium, said.

  While the celebration has already begun – numerous fan fests have been announced, and all 16 host cities are unveiling countdown clocks installed in iconic locations – there are also fiscal realities. U.S. host cities need to raise upward of $150 million. In addition to government funding and private contributions, FIFA for the first time has given host cities the ability to sell local commercial rights.

  “In a market like the U.S., it’s very hard to sell three years out for something when a city is hosting a Super Bowl, an MLB All-Star Game, an NBA All-Star and so on,” Amy Hopfinger, FIFA’s chief business and strategy officer, told Sports Business Journal. “So, I think as we look into that one year out, that’s really when the notoriety of the tournament and the excitement about the tournament hopefully lifts everyone up as we get into that home stretch.”

  There are further challenges. Some cities have had to reconsider the state of their public transport, provide fan buses to and form venues, and clear large spaces – some of which simply do not exist – for the raucous fan fests that will serve as the heartbeat of the traveling supporters’ experience.

  “Fan Fest is part of the journey. It is going to be studied and well resourced and meticulously planned. We get good experience from a lot of the events we have,” O'Donoghue said.

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  'Entire area is safe and secure'

  This is by no means an entirely novel event. North America has put on massive sports tournaments before. The Olympics have been on the continent eight times, the Summer Games most recently in Atlanta in 1996 and the Winter Games in Vancouver in 2010. Critically, Los Angeles will host the Olympics again in the summer of 2028, the next in a series of major soccer events in the U.S., to be followed by the Women’s World Cup in 2031.

  It has also taken on soccer events of a comparable magnitude – albeit with varying degrees of success. The 2024 Copa America served as a trial run. And in most ways, it was a wonderful thing.

  Parking lots before the semifinal at Metlife Stadium between Canada and Argentina, for example, were flooded with a warm haze of smoky barbecues as supporters took part in a pre-match Asado. Grilled meat and beer are pillars of fan experience, and by providing open spaces, the U.S. mastered it.

  But there were also messier instances. The final in Miami was a really good game of football, Lautaro Martinez getting his well-deserved Albiceleste moment with an extra time goal to wrap up a third straight major international trophy for his national team.

  That fixture, though, will also be remembered for the fan chaos that preceded it. Poor planning and questionable crowd control led to frightening swarms of fans pushed up against entry gates. Some supporters were pictured climbing into vents trying to force their way into the stadium. FIFA and CONCACAF pointed fingers at CONMEBOL – the organizing body of Copa America – but in either case, it did raise questions about the state of U.S. readiness.

  “Security has got to make sure that the game and and kind of the entire area is safe and secure, that the fans can feel that they're in a good environment,” Alex Lasry, CEO of the New York/New Jersey host committee, told GOAL.

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  'We think this talented group can perform'

  There is undoubtedly pressure attached to being the host nation of a World Cup. It’s not that host nations have never won it. Just six teams, in fact, have done so over the years: Uruguay, Italy, England, Germany, Argentina and France. Rather, appearing on home soil simply inflates expectations.

  The logic is simple: home fans and home turf equals success. Of course, many nations have proved that it’s far from a simple equation over the years (five-time champion Brazil’s 7-1 thrashing at the hands of Germany in the 2014 knockouts still lives long in the Selecao memory.)

  But there is a hyper-focused attention on the USMNT as a result here. Manager Mauricio Pochettino was hired in September 2024 on a contract that ends after the 2026 tournament. U.S. soccer have made it clear since then that he has been brought in for one reason: to facilitate a good performance in front of U.S. fans.

  "We are here because we want to win. We are winners," Pochettino said. "We are successful, very successful coaching staff."

  Pochettino has embraced that rhetoric in full. In his opening news conference, he targeted a quarterfinal appearance as the goal for the USMNT. He has since doubled down on that goal.

  "The truth? It's a quarterfinal, it's the target, no?” he said. “They were very clear and I am very honest to you. I think that was the idea, the challenge, they know that it is going to be difficult. We think this talented group can perform better. So we accept the challenge.”

  The U.S. have endured a rough run of late, losing four straight matches, and Pochettino is a pedestrian 5-5 after his first 10 fixtures. However, he is yet to have a full squad at his disposal, forced instead to dip into backups and third-stringers against the caliber of opponent that the U.S. might face in a knockout tie. The absences from the upcoming Gold Cup roster include some of the faces of the program, including Christian Pulisic, Antonee Robinson and Weston McKennie.

  By September, the manager insists, he will have his full squad ready to go – and a nine-month sprint to the tournament to put it all together.

  Other host nations have a similar outlook. Canada’s Jesse Marsch, too, is on a short-term contract. He has done the math: if Les Rouges top their group at the World Cup, they get to host knockout fixtures. That could be invaluable, he argued.

  “If we win the group, we stay in Vancouver for two more games. Knockout phase. If we finish second or third, we go to the US. So the objective is clear. It's not just advance, it's win the group,” Marsch said.

GOAL US presents CWC XI: Key observations from first week of the tournament, including uneven MLS play and American no-shows

We are one Matchday into the Club World Cup, and things haven't quite taken off. FIFA's flagship tournament has operated on a gentle simmer for a week. There have been some moments that show promise, such as Boca fans going wild and Real Madrid being not-that-good. But otherwise, it's been a tepid affair, 32 teams pretty much just feeling this competition out.

But that does not mean that we are devoid of talking points. Even with the CWC overall yet to take off, the group stage has already yielded some interesting drama. The South American clubs, for example, have been the early stars of the show. MLS have been a bit mixed – although Miami picked up a massive win against Porto on Thursday. PSG had no issues in the first game, but then were stunned by Botafogo Thursday night.

There are moments of promise. Fundamentally, this isn't just a kickabout in blistering heat in front of five very rich fans. And that's certainly a good start for a tournament that is very much in its embryonic phase.

GOAL US presents the Club World Cup XI, with key observations from the first week of matches.

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  1The South American sides are here to play

  It has always made sense, in some way, for the best teams in the world to play each other in some sort of organized competition. There is heritage here, too. The Intercontinental Cup brought about some famous fixtures, and was dominated by South American sides in the 1980s.

  That spirit has survived to an extent, and has already been clear at this year's CWC. South American teams are undefeated at the tournament thus far – with Palmeiras and Boca Juniors both feeling as they should have beaten Champions League caliber opposition.

  Flamengo, meanwhile, dispatched ES Tunis with ease thanks to Giorgian de Arrascaeta's star showing. The fixtures get trickier from here, but deep runs are certainly on the cards.

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  2MLS Clubs are alive and (sort of) kicking

  What were reasonable expectations for MLS clubs heading into this thing? Some told GOAL that they expect to get out of their groups. Seattle Sounders suggested that they are just happy to be here. Well, so far, they've won just one of four. Miami grabbed the sole victory, albeit it an impressive one, with a Lionel Messi free-kick sealing three vital points against Porto.

  But performances have been pretty encouraging. Miami really should have won the group by now, having hit the post twice late against Al Ahly (more on them later.) Seattle Sounders gave Botafogo a good game, and a more attacking setup from the opening whistle would have gotten them at least a point.

  LAFC turned in a good performance against Chelsea – and will certainly have hope heading into their clash with ES Tunis, especially if Denis Bouanga wakes up. All three will need to avoid losing from here on out to get out of their group. There's always hope.

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  3Real Madrid aren't all that (not yet, at least)

  What did you want? A fully functioning 3-4-2-1 with meticulous build up, a fearsome press, and a line so high even Hansi Flick's Barcelona would be terrified? Of course, Xabi Alonso's Real Madrid are going to need time to settle into things. Even long time goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois admitted that they still play a bit like a Caerlo Ancelotti team. Old habits die hard, it seems.

  But Los Blancos were pretty poor against Al Hilal. "Trent" – as he has now been rebranded due to the famous Spanish difficulty of double-barrel last names – had a tough debut. Vinicius Jr needed treatment on his back before the game and didn't look himself.

  Jude Bellingham berated a linesman for no apparent reason. Take all of that into consideration, and a 1-1 draw isn't the worst thing. But this is Madrid, and results count. It seems that a bit of process-trusting is necessary in the meantime.

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  4No one knows what's happening with ticket sales

  FIFA emphatically claimed that they had reached 1.5 million ticket sales for the Club World Cup, with buyers from 130 different countries purchasing a spot to see this thing play out in the United States. And, well, that runs counter to the eye test. At least at some matches.

  While the Rose Bowl and Hard Rock Stadium both drew big crowds for the big teams, elsewhere, things have been pretty sparse. It is entirely possible, of course, that prospective ticket buyers have seen the quality of football on display will be motivated once games start to mean more. Until then, what the eyes can see and what FIFA claim are in contrast.