Football news LIVE: Alexander-Arnold makes Madrid debut, Gyokeres to Arsenal news, City win CWC opener
talkSPORT
16 – 21 minutes
Live Blog
Updated: 12:08, 19 Jun 2025
talkSPORT.com has all the latest news, updates, views and reaction from around the footballing world.
Man City kicked off their Club World Cup campaign with a 2-0 win, while Trent Alexander-Arnold made his Real Madrid debut.
Meanwhile, the Premier League fixtures were revealed yesterday, with Manchester United vs Arsenal the standout opening game.
The first match of the 2025/26 campaign takes place at Anfield as Liverpool, who won the title at a canter last season, begin their defence by welcoming Bournemouth on August 15th at 8pm.
Click here for the 2025/26 Premier League fixture list in full.
talkSPORT’s Alex Crook has also revealed that Viktor Gyokeres has told friends and family he expects to join Arsenal this summer.
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Canada are setting their sights on World Cup glory… At least, that’s what Jesse Marsch is doing.
The former Leeds United boss joined as the Canadian head coach in May 2024 and took them to the Copa America semi-finals.
They are currently competing at the Gold Cup and sit top of Group B after a 6-0 thrashing of Honduras.
Mexico and the United States will be favourites to go far, but Marsch is focused on going all the way.
And speaking to Men in Blazers, he’s also looking to become a world champion next summer at the 2026 World Cup.
“We want to win it. And by the way, we want to win the World Cup.
“That may sound ridiculous but when I went to [Red Bull] Salzburg and it was our first time in the Champions League, they were like, ‘What are your expectations?’
“I said to win the tournament. We’re not going to any game thinking, ‘Oh, maybe we’ll lose a little’, that makes no sense.
“Why are you entering a tournament if you don’t want to win it?”
Marsch added: “I didn’t go with Leeds to Liverpool… ‘Ok guys, let’s see if we can keep it tight, let’s lose 2-0.’ No. We go to win the game, and we won it.”
“Are you setting yourself up for disappointment? Regardless, you’re disappointed whenever you lose,” he also said.
“So we’re going into every game and believing that we can win.”
Sanchoing to Italy
Jadon Sancho is reported to have agreed a move to Serie A.
Sky Italy claim that Napoli are working on a deal to sign the winger from Manchester United.
United are said to want €25million [£21.4million] for the 25-year-old, whose contract at Old Trafford expires next summer.
Sancho spent the 2024/25 season on loan at Premier League rivals Chelsea, scoring five goals and assisting another ten.
The deal included an obligation to buy for the Blues worth £25m but they declined to opportunity and instead pay a £5m penalty.
West Ham have been linked with a move for Sancho, who has made 83 appearances for United since his move from Borussia Dortmund in 2021.
Academy switch
Manchester City are reportedly close to completing a signing from the Liverpool academy.
Pep Guardiola’s side look set to sign Kaylum Moss, as per Fabrizio Romando.
City are working on the details of the deal with Liverpool for the U15 star.
The move is set to come months after the Premier League giants were involved in another youth transfer.
Liverpool signed Lucas Clarke from City in December, with the centre-back already featuring for their U18s side.
Under pressure
Gabby Agbonlahor doesn’t think Arsenal will hit the ground running in their opening six Premier League matches.
The Gunners have been handed a tough start to the 2025/26 campaign following the release of the fixtures on Wednesday.
Arsenal will hope that 2026 will finally be the year they win the Premier League title after three consecutive second-place finishes.
But Agbonlahor believes their title charge could be scuppered early on with a difficult opening run of games.
“You look at Arsenal’s first six,” he said to Alan Brazil on talkSPORT Breakfast.
“Manchester United away first game, you know what it’s like Al, first game of the season, Manchester United are going to be lively. I’ve gone for a draw.
“Leeds at home, I’ve gone for a win for Arsenal. Liverpool away, loss. Forest at home, I’ve gone for a narrow win for Arsenal.
“Manchester City at home, I’ve gone for a loss. Newcastle away, they don’t do very well there Arsenal, I’ve gone for a loss.
“So that’s seven points out of a possible 18 I’ve gone for Arsenal. Obviously I’m just guessing here, but that wouldn’t be a great start for them.”
Reunited and it feels so good
Jorginho is looking forward to meeting up with his former Chelsea teammates at the Club World Cup on Friday night.
The midfielder signed for Flamengo earlier in the month after a two-and-a-half year spell at Arsenal, who he joined from the Blues.
Jorginho made three appearances for the Gunners against Chelsea and is now set to play against them with Flamengo.
Marc Cucurella, Benoit Badiashile, Trevoh Chalobah and Reece James are all former teammates of his in west London.
They will be part of the Chelsea contingent in their Club World Cup clash against Flamengo, live on talkSPORT 2.
And Jorginho is excited for the occasion, although remains focused on the task at hand.
“It’s always nice to meet a team you’ve played for before. It’s always nice to see your friends again,” said via S1Live.
“I’m ready to help in any way I can, on or off the field, talking, I’ll definitely do that.
“It’s going to be a very difficult game, we know how good they are, and we’re going to prepare for this big game.”
Fighting talk
Phil Foden wants to keep the doubters quiet by bouncing back from a disappointing season with Manchester City.
Foden scored seven Premier League goals in the 2024/25 campaign despite notching 19 the season before.
The 25-year-old scored in City’s 2-0 Club World Cup win against Wydad AC, his first goal in all competitions since January.
He is now ready to return to his previous form with City following a period of rest ahead of the new season.
“It was a difficult season. I’m not going to lie, it was not the best,” he said after their win.
“But I got a little bit of time off, rested. New start, new me. Just looking forward to the season.
“The hunger inside me is back and I want to prove people wrong.”
Bound for Arsenal?
talkSPORT’s chief football correspondent Alex Crook believes Arsenal are more likely to sign Viktor Gyokeres this summer.
The Sporting Lisbon star has been a long-term target for the Gunners, who are also interested in RB Leipzig man Benjamin Sesko.
But it looks as though Gyokeres might be on his way to north London, with Crook revealing a key update on talkSPORT Breakfast.
“I had a message 24 hours or so ago suggesting that Viktor Gyokeres has told friends and family he expects to join Arsenal.
“We know that Manchester United are interested in signing him as well, obviously there is that pre-existing relationship with Ruben Amorim.
“But Arsenal can offer Champions League football, maybe can offer a tilt at the title next season.
“But Sporting are going to play hardball, there’s been a fallout between Gyokeres and the club because his agent has suggested that they had a gentleman’s agreement he could leave for £60million, I think they’re looking for nearer £80m.
“Arsenal are juggling both him and Benjamin Sesko, they’ve opened talks with Leipzig as well but at the moment, I would say Gyokeres looks the more likely.”
‘Something I had to do’
Trent Alexander-Arnold has revealed exactly how long he had been learning Spanish before his move to Real Madrid.
He spoke the language fluently during his unveiling press conference and that led to some questions as to whether he had been learning whilst still being a Liverpool player.
The Real right-back said post-match: “[I’ve been learning] a couple of months. It was something important that I had to do.
“It is important to show the intent that I want to embrace the culture and adapt as best as possible.”
Those comments came after he reviewed his Los Blancos debut, saying: “An amazing day to make my debut for Real Madrid.
“Almost what every player dreams of.
“Some disappointment to not have won the game. The mentality you need to have as a Real Madrid player is to expect to win every game you’re playing, but a lot of positives, especially in the second half.”
On the support he has received from his new fans, Alexander-Arnold added: “Incredible. I felt the support from the moment I signed for the club. Sensational.
“The fanbase that is truly global all over the world. You feel it every single day.
“A huge thank you for that. We dominated the stands today, which was incredible. The support was truly amazing.”
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – JUNE 18: Trent Alexander-Arnold of Real Madrid during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group H match between Real Madrid CF and Al Hilal at Hard Rock Stadium on June 18, 2025 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)
Oh dear…
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s debut has ended with Real Madrid losing their long winning streak at the Club World Cup.
Los Blancos had won all of their previous 11 games in the competition, including the previous formats.
But Al Hilal have denied Real victory at a Club World Cup for the first time in 25 years – with their streak dating back to 2000.
It’s not an ideal start for new boss Xabi Alonso at all.
And Alexander-Arnold would have hoped to not help set an unwanted first on his first appearance…
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – JUNE 18: Trent Alexander-Arnold #12 of Real Madrid C. F. reacts following the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group H match between Real Madrid CF and Al Hilal at Hard Rock Stadium on June 18, 2025 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
Dramatic finish
Wow, what an ending to Real Madrid’s Club World Cup opener!
It’s finished 1-1 between Real and Al Hilal, but Los Blancos had a golden opportunity to win the game in the final stages.
After a VAR check, they were award a penalty and Federico Valverde stepped up to take from the spot…
But his spot-kick was brilliant saved by Yassine Bounou!
It’s a massive missed opportunity for Xabi Alonso’s side and they fail to win on Trent Alexander-Arnold’s debut.
Al Hilal gave Real a great game and proved they are here to compete, taking a point from one of the world’s best teams.
Debut done
That’s it for Trent Alexander-Arnold’s debut!
The new Real Madrid right-back is taken off after 64 minutes, with the score still at 1-1 with Al Hilal.
Alexander-Arnold make two clearances, blocked one shot and made one interception, completing 89 per cent of his passes.
He also played plenty of longer balls and cross while slotting into a more central role from his defensive position.
The ex-Liverpool man did lose possession 12 times and lost three of his four ground duels in his first appearance though.
He’ll be hoping Real can grab a winner as he watches on from the bench for the remainder of the game.
HT: Real Madrid 1-1 Al Hilal
It’s half time between Real Madrid and Al Hilal.
And they’re level at 1-1 at the break in an entertaining affair.
The Saudi side have been very impressive, causing Real and Trent Alexander-Arnold all sorts of problems this evening.
After 29 minutes, Renan Lodi got in behind Alexander-Arnold to score an opener before seeing that being chalked off for offside.
Then, Real ended up going ahead despite being on the back foot, with youngster Gonzalo Garcia tapping home.
But Al Hilal fought back and scored from the penalty spot thanks to ex-Wolves midfielder Ruben Neves.
It’s been a difficult debut so far for Alexander-Arnold…
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – JUNE 18: Trent Alexander-Arnold #12 of Real Madrid C. F. is put under pressure by Kaio Cesar #27 and Renan Lodi #6 of Al Hilal during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group H match between Real Madrid CF and Al Hilal at Hard Rock Stadium on June 18, 2025 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Hector Vivas – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
Debut underway
Trent Alexander-Arnold has officially made his Real Madrid debut against Al Hilal in Miami!
The game is now underway after player introductions.
Alexander-Arnold received a mix of cheers and boos from the Los Blancos and Al Hilal fans in attendance as he walked out.
On his new defender, Xabi Alonso said ahead of kick-off: “He has the qualities to have a great impact with the ball.
“But as well he is a defender, and he needs to defend.
“He is a great signing for the club.”
Missing Mbappe
Kylian Mbappe isn’t in the Real Madrid squad this evening.
The superstar Frenchman won’t play a part in Real’s opening Club World Cup game which is getting started in a few minutes.
And manager Xabi Alonso has explained why Mbappe is absent.
“He had a fever for two days,” Alonso, who is taking charge of his first game as Los Blancos boss, said pre-match.
“He didn’t feel good at all, so we preferred to let him rest.”
These two fans are going to be disappointed…
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – JUNE 18: Fans of Kylian Mbappe #9 of Real Madrid CF pose for a photo outside the stadium prior to the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group H match between Real Madrid CF and Al Hilal at Hard Rock Stadium on June 18, 2025 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Hector Vivas – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)
‘New season, fresh me’
Manchester City goalscorer Phil Foden has given his thoughts on finally finding the net in his side’s win this evening.
Foden hadn’t scored since January 25 before tonight.
He told Channel 5: “[I’m] very happy for the team to start the tournament with a win. It was difficult at times with the heat.
“Fair play to them, they were a top team on the counter-attacks.
“There were a lot of chances that we had to deal with. I’m happy with the performance and happy with the three points.
“[For my goal] I stayed alive, and the ball fell to me. I put it away nicely, so I am happy.
“A new season, fresh me. I’m looking forward to the season now.”
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JUNE 18: Phil Foden of Manchester City celebrates after scoring to give the side a 1-0 lead during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group G match between Manchester City FC and Wydad AC at Lincoln Financial Field on June 18, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)
FT: Man City 2-0 Wydad AC
It’s game over and Manchester City win their opener!
Goals from Phil Foden and Jeremy Doku get the job done.
It was both of the stars’ first City strikes since January after a poor spell in front of goal for the club.
Foden also became the first Englishman to score in multiple editions of the Club World Cup, including all formats.
Pep Guardiola was left raging at full time following Rico Lewis’ sending off, which could have spoiled the win.
Lewis will now serve a one-game suspension in the USA.
Next up, Trent Alexander-Arnold makes his Real Madrid debut.
Seeing red
Rico Lewis has been sent off for Manchester City…
The defender clearly wins the ball as he slides into a challenge, but his foot follows through and catches Samuel Obeng.
He can’t believe it as the referee then shows him red!
There is disbelief all over his face and on the Man City bench.
VAR took a look at the tackle and agreed with the referee’s decision though, meaning Lewis is off.
Trent debut
The Real Madrid team has been revealed for their clash against Al Hilal later on this evening.
And Trent Alexander-Arnold will make his debut for the club.
He starts at right-back in a defence that also features ex-Bournemouth centre-back Dean Huijsen.
Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo also start.
Kylian Mbappe is not in the squad at all.
Triple change
Pep Guardiola brings on a couple of superstars.
Erling Haaland and Rodri are on for Phil Foden and Jeremy Doku as we enter the final half an hour.
The Norwegian gets a big roar from the fans in the stadium.
Oscar Bobb also comes on for Rayan Cherki.
Man City have been comfortable in this second half, but they’ve been unable to take chances to grab a third goal yet.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JUNE 18: Erling Haaland #9 of Manchester City reacts during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group G match between Manchester City FC and Wydad AC at Lincoln Financial Field on June 18, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Back underway!
The second half has started in Man City’s opening game.
They haven’t made any changes at the break.
Erling Haaland is among the substitutes who will be wanting to come on and make an impact in this clash.
Pep Guardiola went out on the pitch to aggressively pass on some tactics to his players while waiting for Wydad to come out.
They’ll be looking to secure their three points with another goal.
Manchester City’s Spanish head coach Pep Guardiola walks on the pitch ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Group G football match between England’s Manchester City and Morocco’s Wydad AC at the Lincoln Financial Field stadium in Philadelphia on June 18, 2025. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP) (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)
HT: Man City 2-0 Wydad AC
That’s half-time in the United States.
Pep Guardiola will be very pleased with that performance.
Manchester City have looked smooth on the ball and they’ve dominated this game, having 10 shots and six corners.
Wydad have had some chances at the other end, but their final touch hasn’t been there and it’s cost them.
As things stand, City will begin the Club World Cup with a win.
Manchester City’s Belgian midfielder #11 Jeremy Doku (R) celebrates with teammates after scoring his team’s second goal during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Group G football match between England’s Manchester City and Morocco’s Wydad AC at the Lincoln Financial Field stadium in Philadelphia on June 18, 2025. (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU / AFP) (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty Images)
GOAL! Man City 2-0 Wydad AC: Jeremy Doku
THERE’S ANOTHER FOR MAN CITY!
Jeremy Doku volleys in at the back post from a corner!
It’s a brilliant finish from the Belgian, as he sticks a leg out and fires past the goalkeeper to double the City lead.
That goal has been coming, with Wydad totally penned back.
Doku has found the net for City for the first time since January.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JUNE 18: Jeremy Doku #11 of Manchester City scores his team’s second goal during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group G match between Manchester City FC and Wydad AC at Lincoln Financial Field on June 18, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Nervy moments
Manchester City have controlled the ball for the large part of this first half against Wydad AC.
But they’ve been tested on multiple occasions at the back, with their Moroccan opponents threatening.
Wydad have had three shots after half an hour, and one of those was an audacious effort from near the halfway line.
City’s defence has looked slightly nervy dealing with pressure, but they remain on top and will want to grab a second goal.
Tijjani Reijnders has been very impressive in helping to create chances a
