As the FIFA World Cup 2026 final approaches, a series of dramatic events have unfolded, including US President Donald Trump's criticism of England manager Thomas Tuchel, a World Cup winner being denied entry to the United States, and an Arsenal injury blow.
Trump Criticizes Tuchel's Tactics
Donald Trump took aim at Thomas Tuchel's tactical approach against Argentina, poking fun at the Three Lions for deploying Harry Kane in a defensive capacity. "I think they perhaps made a mistake when they made him a defensive player, but what do I know about soccer?" Trump said.
England manager Thomas Tuchel stood by his tactical choices but conceded he would shoulder responsibility at his press conference ahead of the third-place play-off. "Listen, if it's easier, easier if someone takes the blame, I take the blame," he said. Tuchel was visibly unimpressed when quizzed about Trump's remarks. "Do you use Donald Trump as your witness for the case, or? I was just asking," he snapped.
World Cup Winner Denied Entry
Spain's World Cup winner Joan Capdevila has been refused entry into the United States ahead of this weekend's final, and has appealed to Trump for assistance. "I NEED HELP @realDonaldTrump! They just told me that I can't travel to the final with my kids because my ESTA has been denied. Can anyone help me with this? You have no idea how excited I was to be there with all my 2010 teammates and this team to cheer them on," he said.
Arsenal Injury Blow
William Saliba looks set to miss out for France after Didier Deschamps revealed the pain had become 'unbearable' for the defender. The Arsenal centre-back was substituted during the semi-final clash against Spain.
Infantino Hails Tournament
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has hailed this summer's tournament as the greatest cultural event in human history. Speaking at a reception held at Trump Tower in New York, he declared: "This has not just been – and is not just – the greatest (FIFA) World Cup of all time. It is the greatest human, social and cultural event that mankind has ever witnessed and seen, and we are all part of it, and for this I thank you very much, Mr President."
Trump Claims Intervention
US President Trump also claimed that his personal call to Infantino ensured the fallout from Folarin Balogun's red card passed without incident. "It's so much better the way it worked out because there's no controversy," he said.
Messi Reflects on Yamal Photo
Lionel Messi has opened up about the now-famous photograph of him bathing a baby — none other than Lamine Yamal. "I took a picture with him when he was a baby ... the fact that we're both playing in the World Cup now is crazy," he said. Yamal is also expected to be fit for the final after returning to training. "He's fine, there are no problems with him. He took a heavy knock, but he coped with the match perfectly," Luis de la Fuente confirmed. "We gave him a rest yesterday; today he's been training with his teammates as normal."
Falkland Islands Banner Controversy
The US government is set to oppose any ban on Argentina players following a FIFA investigation into the display of a banner referencing the Falkland Islands. World Cup chief Andrew Giuliani has robustly argued that Argentina were merely exercising their right to freedom of expression.
