FootXtra – Football News & Updates FootXtra brings you the latest football news, live updates, match previews, transfer stories, and in-depth analysis from leagues and tournaments around the world. Stay connected to the beautiful game every day.

Soccer Football - LaLiga - Real Madrid v Villarreal - Santiago Bernabeu, Madrid, Spain - October 4, 2025 Real Madrid's Arda Guler reacts after a missed change REUTERS/Juan Medina

Throughout his legendary soccer career, Pelé emerged as one of the inaugural young stars to achieve global stardom, setting a historic benchmark. Several years later, Lamine Yamal came close to breaking his records, reaching soccer’s pinnacle at a similarly young age. Now, a prodigious talent from the 2025 U-20 World Cup has eclipsed both icons, astonishing the world as he pursues his third World Cup participation within just nine months.

Cristiano Ronaldo began his journey with the Portugal national team two decades ago, and since then, he has established himself as the country’s greatest footballing legend, leading his nation to its first major trophies. With the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on the horizon, Portugal has awarded Ronaldo a “Special Recognition” for his extraordinary career and contributions.

Lionel Messi was expected to make his appearance in Chicago to face Puerto Rico at Soldier Field next Monday, October 13, during Argentina’s US tour for the October international break. However, plans have changed, as the venue has now been moved out of the state of Illinois.

With the FIFA World Cup 2026 on the horizon, the qualifying campaigns across every confederation are approaching their decisive stages. Nearly 20 national teams could lock in their ticket to next summer’s tournament with strong results in the October international break — including France and Portugal.

With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, several national teams are heading to the October international window, either to secure their place in the tournament or to prepare with friendlies and finalize their squads. The United States will host multiple matches over the next two weeks.

Since Pep Guardiola joined Manchester City, the team has soared to become one of the best in the world. It has clinched six Premier League titles and added a UEFA Champions League trophy to its accolades. One of its key players, who was instrumental in these successes, recently revealed that he went through a difficult phase with injuries. At just 31 years old, these challenges had once led the City star to consider retiring from professional soccer.

England are just one step away from securing a place at the FIFA World Cup 2026, and for that reason, they’re already mapping out their preparation ahead of the tournament, which will be hosted next year by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Among the rumored plans is a friendly against one of South America’s top teams.

Jordi Alba has announced his retirement, surprising fans just months after signing a contract extension with Inter Miami in May. To cover his imminent departure ahead of next season, Lionel Messi could soon welcome a new teammate, as Alba’s exit may pave the way for a former Real Madrid player to join the club.

Just over eight months remain until the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Argentina will arrive looking to defend the title they won in Qatar 2022, and having Lionel Messi and the rest of the squad’s stars available will be crucial. However, one important player won’t be on the field for the opening match of the tournament.

A new chapter in soccer history is closing, and it belongs to one of the finest left-backs of his generation. Jordi Alba, a name synonymous with speed, precision, and success, has officially announced his retirement from professional soccer. The Inter Miami defender, who became a legend at Barcelona and a pillar for Spain’s national team, confirmed his decision in an emotional farewell shared on social media.

After joining Inter Miami in the 2023-24 season, Jordi Alba became a key player for the team. At 36 years old, he managed to remain the undisputed left back, despite competition from younger players. He has not only been a key part of the defensive line, but also a key part of the offense. Despite this, Jordi recently announced his retirement at the end of the season, prompting Lionel Messi to leave a heartfelt comment on his post.

Lamine Yamal’s breakthrough on the global stage at such a young age has sparked comparisons with some of soccer’s all-time greats. But at only 18 years old, the forward still has a long road ahead. Now, his former coach at FC Barcelona and legend Xavi Hernandez has revealed what Yamal needs to do to “become one of football’s great geniuses.”

Portugal’s preparations for the next round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers have been hit by a major setback. With Cristiano Ronaldo still leading the charge for his nation at 40, the Selecao entered the October window chasing perfection and another record for their captain. But just as momentum seemed unstoppable, a vital midfield presence has withdrawn from the squad through injury, leaving Roberto Martinez with an unexpected gap to fill ahead of crucial matches against Ireland and Hungary.

In a groundbreaking move that has left fans and officials across Europe stunned, UEFA has officially approved Milan’s request to play a Serie A fixture abroad, making history in the process. The match, which will feature Christian Pulisic’s Milan facing Como, is set to become the first-ever Serie A league game to be played outside of Italy. While the decision has sparked both excitement and controversy, many are wondering at which venue and why this particular fixture will take place so far from home.