Hello! With national teams competing this week, clubs are also active with notable transfers. Here`s the latest football news as the sport moves into its summer period.
Footy Fix – Upcoming Matches
- Wednesday, June 4: EU UNL: Germany vs. Portugal, 3 p.m. ET on FS1
- Thursday, June 5: EU UNL: Spain vs. France, 3 p.m. ET on FS1
- Thursday, June 5: World Cup Qualifier: Ecuador vs. Brazil, 7 p.m. ET on Fanatiz
The Forward Line
Ally Sentnor, Lynn Biyendolo Shine for the USWNT
The U.S. women`s national team finished a successful international break with a dominant 4-0 victory over Jamaica on Tuesday. The team`s attacking players capitalized on their chances in this strong performance.
Ally Sentnor, the current U.S. Soccer Young Female Player of the Year, netted two goals in the first half, giving the Olympic gold medalists a 2-0 advantage by halftime. Lynn Biyendolo also scored twice after coming on as a second-half substitute, with her first goal just three minutes after entering the match. Biyendolo now holds the record for most goals off the bench for the USWNT (13) since her debut in October 2016, highlighting her continued importance to the team. Both Sentnor and Biyendolo demonstrated that Emma Hayes` younger attacking corps is effectively stepping up in the absence of key players like Trinity Rodman, Mallory Swanson, and Sophia Smith.
Coach Hayes continued her focus on expanding the player pool, which began after the USWNT won Olympic gold. Left back Kerry Abello earned her first cap. Amidst these experiments, Hayes also gave second consecutive starts to several less experienced players: goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce, midfielder Lily Yohannes, and forwards Catarina Macario and Alyssa Thompson. These players were included after performing well for their clubs and building strong form with the national team, particularly Yohannes, Macario, and Thompson, who contributed to several goals during this international window, including a 3-0 win against China on Saturday.
Hayes is expected to continue exploring the player pool during the next international period, which includes two friendlies against Ireland on June 26 and 29, and one against Canada on July 2. Following these matches, Hayes stated she anticipates having a clearer picture of the available players as preparations continue for the 2027 Women`s World Cup.
Midfield Link Play
AC Milan Transfer Activity Heats Up
Although the summer offseason is just starting for AC Milan, it`s already shaping up to be an interesting period for the Italian club, with both potential arrivals and departures.
One of the biggest transfer stories this week involves Tijjani Reijnders` potential move from Milan to Manchester City. Reports suggest the Premier League club is prepared to pay around $85 million for the midfielder. Reijnders had a strong season for Milan, scoring 15 goals and being a notable positive point in an otherwise inconsistent campaign. His move takes him from one club undergoing changes to another. City aims to bounce back next season after finishing without domestic or continental trophies. Experts note that the Dutch international would be a valuable addition for the ambitious English side.
Francesco Porzio commented on Reijnders` fit at City:
- His ability to contribute both offensively and defensively aligns well with Pep Guardiola`s style.
- Reijnders can play various midfield roles, including deep-lying playmaker, box-to-box midfielder, or a more attacking position.
- With Rodri expected back after missing much of the 2024-25 season, Reijnders could be a crucial partner, sharing creative and defensive duties and allowing Rodri to anchor the midfield, forming a dynamic pairing.
Reijnders might not be the only significant player leaving Milan this summer. Chelsea are reportedly interested in goalkeeper Mike Maignan as they prepare for their return to the UEFA Champions League after three years. However, Milan could also bring in a high-profile player to boost their squad: veteran Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric. The 2018 Ballon d`Or winner will become a free agent after the Club World Cup with Madrid this summer, making him a desirable option for several clubs despite turning 40 in September.
Milan missed out on European competition for next season, leading to Massimiliano Allegri`s hiring as manager. This situation could make the club an appealing destination for Modric. He would likely be able to handle the demands of playing for an ambitious Milan side without the added strain of midweek European matches. Time will tell if this potential move materializes.
Top Stories from the World of Football
- Inzaghi Departs Inter: Simone Inzaghi is out as Inter manager following their loss in the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain. He is reportedly close to joining Saudi Arabia`s Al-Hilal. Como`s Cesc Fabregas is reportedly Inter`s top choice as his replacement, though other managers are also being considered.
- Ronaldo Contract Talks: Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly in discussions with Saudi Arabian government and sovereign wealth fund officials about extending his contract at Al-Nassr.
- Hayes Reflects on First Year: USWNT coach Emma Hayes discussed her initial year in the role, stating that “you cannot waste a single training session” with the team, emphasizing maximizing every opportunity.
- Fernandes Rejects Saudi Offer: Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes confirmed he considered a transfer to Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal but ultimately decided against the move.
- Latest Transfer Buzz: Inter Milan may target Manchester United`s Rasmus Hojlund. Nico Williams` future at Athletic Bilbao could be influenced by his bond with his brother Inaki. A look at some of the top free agents available this summer.
- Ballon d`Or Contenders: An overview of players currently considered frontrunners for football`s top individual award, including Mohamed Salah, Ousmane Dembele, and Raphinha.
- Peyton Manning Invests in NWSL: Super Bowl champion Peyton Manning has joined the ownership group for the NWSL`s upcoming expansion team in Denver, set to begin play in 2026.
- Youth Players Suspended: Newell`s Old Boys suspended six youth players and revoked their scholarships after they were photographed with a player from rival club Rosario Central.
The Back Line
Best Bets for Upcoming Matches
- CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers: Ecuador vs. Brazil, Thursday, 7 p.m. ET
THE PICK: Vinicius Junior to score (+195) – Carlo Ancelotti makes his debut as Brazil`s manager in a challenging away match against Ecuador, who are second in the CONMEBOL table and could potentially secure a 2026 World Cup spot with a win. While Brazil`s qualification isn`t in dire straits, Ancelotti`s team needs a strong start with the World Cup just a year away, especially after he stated his intention for Brazil to play like Real Madrid. Given this plan, Vinicius Junior is an ideal candidate to help Ancelotti`s era begin well. He scored 90 goals in 198 games under Ancelotti at Real Madrid and this match is an excellent opportunity for him to translate his club form to the international stage for an ambitious Brazilian side preparing for 2026.
