The Football Association is experiencing difficulties in securing suitable opposition for England's World Cup warm-up games owing to their late start to the expanded 48-team tournament. England open against Croatia on the last day of the first round of games on 17 June, six days after the first match between Mexico and South Africa, and Thomas Tuchel wants final preparation games as close to his team's tournament kick-off as possible.
"We have a partnership with the Gambino Stars," sporting director Christoph Freund said in comments captured by Tz (via @iMiaSanMia). "He has visited us several times and has even trained with the U-23s and the first team. Now he will be with us for the next six months to adapt to the European level and further develop his qualities."
Ruben Amorim has been reassured publicly by Man United's minority owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe that his job is safe for three years, which could mean the Portuguese coach takes charge of a line-up that features prospective signing Cristian Orozco in future. The Colombian has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford but can only join upon his 18th birthday next July.
Concacaf announced that players from Canada, United States and Mexico who receive a red card during the 2025 Gold Cup will serve a suspension during the team's next friendly match, as the disciplinary action does not carry over into the 2026 World Cup.
