Football News

Paolo Maldini remains undecided on the Italy technical director role but is expected to decline due to personal life concerns, leaving Demetrio Albertini and Gianfranco Zola as alternatives.

Guardian Sport’s Nikhita Chulani examines what statistics reveal about optimal penalty kick techniques, with shootouts often deciding World Cup matches.

The English Football League has opened an investigation into Sheffield United amid claims that owner COH Sports established a new holding company to avoid paying £35m owed to former owner Prince Abdullah.

The inquest into the death of Sheffield United midfielder Maddy Cusack has been adjourned for a second time in 2026. Proceedings will not resume until December at the earliest after new documents were submitted, requiring the recall of former medical staff.

AC Milan have appointed 26-year-old Sergio Navarro Barquero as head coach of their reserve side Milan Futuro ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.

Deborah Cusack told Chesterfield coroner’s court that her daughter feared being blacklisted, while Sheffield United’s former club doctor admitted failing to report a serious medical data breach affecting women’s team players.

Former physio Francesca Carr told an inquest the club’s transition to full-time status felt “rushed” and staff were overstretched during summer 2023.

An inquest heard that Sheffield United player Maddy Cusack’s eating habits changed after her manager allegedly commented on her weight. Her girlfriend Grace Riglar gave emotional evidence at Chesterfield coroner’s court.

Forest Green Rovers have disbanded their women’s team for the 2026-27 season to concentrate resources on returning the men’s side to the English Football League.