As national teams compete internationally this week, clubs are also actively involved in significant transfer deals, marking the unofficial start of soccer`s summer routine.
Ally Sentnor, Lynn Biyendolo Shine for the USWNT
The U.S. women`s national team wrapped up a productive international break with a decisive 4-0 victory over Jamaica on Tuesday. This match was another display of the team`s offensive power, where attacking players effectively seized their chances.
Ally Sentnor, recognized as the U.S. Soccer Young Female Player of the Year, netted her first international two goals in the first half, giving the Olympic gold medalists a 2-0 lead. Lynn Biyendolo, entering as a substitute in the second half, also scored twice, with her first coming just three minutes after stepping onto the field. Biyendolo now holds the record for most goals off the bench for the USWNT (13) since her debut in October 2016, consistently proving her importance to the squad. Both Sentnor and Biyendolo highlighted how Emma Hayes` strategy of integrating younger attacking players is effectively compensating for the absence of key players like Trinity Rodman, Mallory Swanson, and Sophia Wilson.
Coach Hayes continues her focus on broadening the player pool, a project ongoing since the USWNT`s Olympic gold win. Left back Kerry Abello earned her first cap during this period. Amidst these experiments, Hayes gave a second consecutive start to several less experienced players: goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce, midfielder Lily Yohannes, and forwards Catarina Macario and Alyssa Thompson. These players were selected based on their strong club performances and are building solid form for the national team. This is particularly true for Yohannes, Macario, and Thompson, who were involved in multiple goals during this international window, which also included a 3-0 win against China on Saturday.
Hayes indicated that the upcoming international window, featuring two friendlies against Ireland and one against Canada, will likely see further exploration of the player pool. She expects these matches to provide a clearer understanding of available talent as preparations for the 2027 Women`s World Cup progress.
Midfield Link Play
Comings and Goings for AC Milan
Although the offseason is just beginning for AC Milan, this summer is shaping up to be quite significant for the Italian club regarding both incoming and outgoing players.
Perhaps the most prominent transfer story this week is Tijjani Reijnders` potential move from Milan to Manchester City, with reports suggesting the Premier League club is prepared to offer around $85 million for the midfielder. Reijnders scored 15 goals for Milan last season and was one of the few highlights in an inconsistent campaign for the club. He would be moving from a team in transition to another seeking resurgence. City aims to rebound next season after failing to win domestic or continental trophies. According to Francesco Porzio, the Dutch international would be a valuable acquisition for the ambitious Manchester City side.
- Porzio: `The Dutch midfielder`s ability to contribute both offensively and defensively makes him a perfect fit for Guardiola`s style at Manchester City. Reijnders can play various midfield roles, including deep-lying playmaker, box-to-box midfielder, or even in a more advanced position. With the 2024 Ballon d`Or winner Rodri expected back after missing a significant portion of the 2024-25 season due to injury, Reijnders` potential to complement him could be vital. His versatility makes him an ideal midfield partner for the Spaniard, capable of sharing creative and defensive duties, allowing Rodri to anchor the midfield and forming a dynamic partnership.`
Reijnders might not be the only major departure from Milan this summer. Chelsea is reportedly interested in goalkeeper Mike Maignan ahead of their return to the UEFA Champions League after a three-year absence. However, Milan might also bring in a high-profile player to bolster their squad for the next campaign: outgoing Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric. The 2018 Ballon d`Or winner will be a free agent after competing in the Club World Cup with Madrid this summer, making him an attractive prospect for several clubs despite turning 40 in September.
Milan did not qualify for any European competition next season, leading to a managerial change with Massimiliano Allegri taking charge. This situation could make the club an ideal destination for Modric. He should be able to handle the demands of playing for a competitive Milan side without the added burden of midweek European matches. Whether this transfer materializes remains to be seen.
Top Stories
- Inzaghi leaves Inter: Simone Inzaghi`s tenure as Inter manager ended following a significant loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final, amidst rumors of a move to Saudi Arabia`s Al-Hilal. Como`s Cesc Fabregas is reportedly Inter`s top choice to replace him, though other managers are also being considered.
- Ronaldo negotiations continue: Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly in discussions with Saudi Arabian government officials and the nation`s sovereign wealth fund regarding a contract extension at Al-Nassr.
- Hayes` first year: USWNT head coach Emma Hayes reflected on making the most of her initial year in the role, emphasizing the necessity of utilizing every training session effectively.
- Fernandes rejects Saudi move: Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes confirmed that a transfer to Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal “was considered” but ultimately declined the move.
- Transfer window latest: Manchester United`s Rasmus Hojlund is reportedly a target for Inter, while Nico Williams` close relationship with his brother Inaki may influence his future at Athletic Bilbao. Additionally, a look at some of the top free agents available this summer.
- Ballon d`Or race: An analysis of players leading the competition for soccer`s most prestigious individual award, including mentions of Mohamed Salah, Ousmane Dembele, and Raphinha.
- Manning invests in NWSL: Super Bowl champion Peyton Manning has joined the ownership group of the upcoming NWSL 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 posed for a picture with a player from rival club Rosario Central.
Dominic Ashworth