The transfer market and preparations for the 2026 World Cup have blown apart the calm in international football.
The sporting departments of Europe’s biggest clubs are working flat out on a day when the offices of FC Barcelona and the presidential suites in Madrid are drawing all the attention from the sports press.
With a summer full of high drama just around the corner, strategic moves on the benches and official announcements from World Cup national teams are beginning to shape the landscape for next season.
Below, we review the five main storylines dominating the news this Friday, May 29, 2026.
Mourinho, one step away from Real Madrid if Florentino wins on June 7
Everything is in place for José Mourinho to return to the Real Madrid bench. The decisive intervention of his agent, Jorge Mendes, has managed to unblock the contractual situation of the Portuguese coach, who no longer has a release clause. There is full agreement on the figures in his new contract, and his official return will be presented by Florentino Pérez if he is re-elected in the presidential elections on June 7.
Scaloni unveils Argentina’s 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup
La Scaloneta now has its troops ready to defend the title. With Lionel Messi as the undisputed leader and ultimate reference point, Lionel Scaloni confirmed the final list of 26 players called up for the World Cup. The announcement comes with notable absences among young prospects such as Franco Mastantuono and Alejandro Garnacho, but opens the door to fresh blood with the inclusion of emerging talents like Nico Paz and Giuliano Simeone.
Anthony Gordon is now a new FC Barcelona player
Today is a key day in Barcelona with the name Anthony Gordon taking center stage. FC Barcelona is expected to officially announce the signing of the English winger in the coming hours, with the player set to be tied to the club until 2031. The footballer successfully passed his medical yesterday, while his legal representatives finalized all the transfer paperwork.
Bernardo Silva still pushing to wear the Blaugrana shirt
Barça’s sporting plans could take an unexpected turn due to the persistence of Bernardo Silva. Although Barcelona’s sporting management had not considered his arrival because of the clear overbooking of players in his position, the Portuguese midfielder’s name is back on the table. The final decision on his signing has been left exclusively in the hands of coach Hansi Flick.
Pirlo backs the idea of Pep Guardiola for Italy
📸 Lewis Storey – 2026 Getty Images
Andrea Pirlo has sparked football debate in Italy following his latest interview with Marca. The legendary former Italian player did not hesitate to put forward the name of Pep Guardiola for the national team bench, stating bluntly that “if Pep were Italy’s head coach, it would be something top for our football,” opening the door to a historic dream for the Azzurra.
This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.
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