As the soccer calendar takes a pause before the Club World Cup and Gold Cup tournaments, national teams are actively preparing for the monumental 2026 World Cup, which is now exactly one year away. The recent international break offered many teams a crucial chance to evaluate their progress as World Cup plans begin to solidify.
The host nations – the United States, Mexico, and Canada – are on different trajectories leading up to the World Cup and will continue preparations in the upcoming Gold Cup. While Mexico and Canada secured wins in their recent matches, the U.S. men`s national team (USMNT) faces a challenging period, entering the Gold Cup on a four-game losing streak, including a significant 4-0 defeat to Switzerland. This poor run of form is notable for the team.
The USMNT`s current four consecutive losses represent the first time this has happened since 2007. The team also remains winless in their last seven matches against European opponents. While key players like Christian Pulisic were absent, the extent of the recent defeats was unexpected. The persistent struggles against top European sides raise questions about the depth and quality of the player pool, even with coaching changes.
Meanwhile, potential favorites for the World Cup are starting to emerge. Spain and France are currently seen as leading contenders by oddsmakers. Both squads feature a blend of top club performers who have successfully translated their abilities to the international stage. Spain, the reigning European champions, could be spearheaded by the young talent Lamine Yamal as they aim for their first World Cup title since 2010. France, winners in 2018, boast formidable players like Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele.
So far, 13 teams, including the three hosts, have secured their spots. Among these is reigning champion Argentina, whose squad under Lionel Scaloni has performed exceptionally well since lifting their third World Cup trophy in 2022, maintaining strong form even with Lionel Messi`s occasional absences. Uzbekistan and Jordan have also made history by booking their places for their first-ever World Cup appearances.
With a year remaining, many intriguing questions surround the tournament, particularly regarding how several high-profile managers will adapt to leading national teams. Julian Nagelsmann gained experience with Germany at the Euros last year. Other notable managers transitioning from club roles include Carlo Ancelotti with Brazil and Thomas Tuchel with England, both tasked with making a significant impact next year. Results for this group have been mixed so far; Brazil recently secured their first win under Ancelotti, while England`s recent performances include an unconvincing win over Andorra and a loss to Senegal.
Club World Cup and Transfer Updates
While the World Cup countdown continues, final preparations are underway for the expanded Club World Cup, set to begin shortly. Some participating clubs utilized a special mini transfer window created by FIFA to finalize signings before the competition.
Manchester City were notably active in this truncated window, acquiring Rayan Ait-Nouri from Wolves and Rayan Cherki from Lyon. Both transfers involved fees close to $50 million, again highlighting City`s considerable financial strength. While both add new options for Pep Guardiola, Cherki appears to be an excellent fit. His impressive creative output last season, particularly in generating assists and getting the ball into dangerous areas, suggests he has the talent to significantly enhance the City squad in various positions.
Borussia Dortmund will feature a second Bellingham sibling this summer after Jobe Bellingham completed a move to his brother Jude`s former club. Sunderland could receive up to $43.4 million for the younger Bellingham, making him Dortmund`s record signing. Although it remains to be seen how quickly he integrates into the first team, a potential quarterfinal match-up between Dortmund and Jude`s Real Madrid at the Club World Cup would be a compelling storyline.
Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal also made a significant move, securing N`Golo Kante on a short-term loan from Al-Ittihad. Despite considerable transfer speculation, including a saga involving Cristiano Ronaldo, Kante`s loan, alongside appointing Simone Inzaghi as manager, was their primary high-profile activity before the Club World Cup.
Other Football News
- Al-Hilal`s Transfer Window: Despite high expectations, Al-Hilal struggled to complete all their desired major signings ahead of the Club World Cup.
- Italy`s Head Coach Search: Gennaro Gattuso is reportedly a leading candidate to become Italy`s new head coach, raising discussions about whether Jose Mourinho might be a more suitable choice for the role.
- Frank to Tottenham: Thomas Frank is nearing a move from Brentford to Tottenham Hotspur, seen as a manager well-suited to follow the style implemented during the Ange Postecoglou era.
- NWSL Team of the Week: Gift Monday and Michelle Cooper were key players featured in the NWSL Team of the Week, with Savy King recognized as captain while recovering from heart surgery.
Betting Outlook
Looking ahead to the FIFA World Cup, Spain is considered a strong contender to win the tournament. Despite a recent loss in the UEFA Nations League final, Spain is viewed as potentially the best-equipped team to triumph in a year`s time, sharing the status of joint-favorites with France. Spain`s victory at last year`s Euros marked their re-emergence on the global stage, showcasing a talented new generation of players alongside experienced veterans. Led by young stars like Lamine Yamal (already among the world`s best at 17), Pedri, and new Real Madrid recruit Dean Huijsen, supported by players like Fabian Ruiz and Martín Zubimendi, Spain possesses a blend of youth and experience that makes them a compelling candidate.
Dominic Ashworth