USA striker Folarin Balogun is eligible to face Belgium in the World Cup quarterfinals after FIFA suspended his automatic match ban for a one-year probationary period. Balogun, 25, has scored three goals for the US at the 2026 tournament.
Chelsea have secured the future of 16-year-old midfielder Mahdi Nicoll-Jazuli, who signed scholarship terms and will convert to a professional contract when he turns 17 in January. The England youth international rejected several top European clubs to commit to the Blues.
Thiago Alcantara stated he does not have the required coaching badges to join Andoni Iraola's staff or become a coach at Liverpool.
France coach Didier Deschamps says Kylian Mbappé's public image does not reflect reality, calling him mature and a team leader. Deschamps expressed happiness having Mbappé as captain.
Mikel Oyarzabal said he wouldn't call Lionel Messi a striker because he embodies everything football is, but he would still choose him as the best striker in the World Cup.
Spain midfielder Gavi said he has never seen criticism of Cristiano Ronaldo from teammates, only from outside, and called him one of the best ever who can make a difference at any moment.
Carlo Ancelotti says Neymar is fit for 90 minutes and believes he can play alongside Vinicius Jr, hinting they will feature together.
Real Madrid's Brahim Diaz said he hopes France qualify for the next round so he can face his club teammates, in comments to Cope.
Kylian Mbappé is one goal away from equaling Lionel Messi's record of 20 World Cup goals.
Orlando Gill has been officially named Man of the Match for the Paraguay-France match. The announcement was made following the game.
