Football
Lamine Yamal is already a star with huge commercial appeal, and some experts believe he has the potential to reach Messi’s level
With the timing of his rise and a natural swagger, millions of fans already see football’s next great star in him.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente’s fascination with Marcus Aurelius and the book shaping his thinking
Marcus Aurelius’ “Meditations” offered a guide to mental discipline through metaphor and philosophy, long before modern ideas of mental coaching existed.
English fans now have hydration breaks, as well as half-time, to turn to dating apps during World Cup matches
And they can benefit from the law of large numbers, given the number of spectators in World Cup stadiums.
France are the World Cup’s most compelling team — at least so far — and their global following is growing rapidly
It is becoming increasingly difficult not to be drawn to Deschamps’ side, and fans everywhere are being won over. Not only in France and the USA, but also in some unexpected countries.
Wonderwall streams soar during England’s World Cup campaign as Oasis’ anthem becomes the soundtrack to every victory
One of Britpop’s defining songs has returned to the UK top 40, with streams rising by as much as 50% in just a few weeks.
Paolo Maldini is the best possible choice for Italy — his years at Milan show why
It is not only about his name or reputation: the Azzurri’s new technical director brings strong professional expertise as well as the ability to manage the human side of the game.
Argentina once again relying on the talent of its stars, but the Scaloneta still have questions to answer ahead of the semi-finals
Messi’s assist, then goals from Álvarez and Lautaro. Yet the Selección found Switzerland difficult to tame.
Perhaps €135 million may still be too much, but against Norway (and at the World Cup in general) Elliot Anderson showed why Manchester City did everything to sign him
At 23, the former Nottingham Forest midfielder has become the most consistent player in Tuchel’s England side.
Haaland is making money from his ponytail — and the hair ties that come with it
The Manchester City striker has invested in the company that produces them, creating a collection that sold out within days.
Scaloni’s Argentina play a style of football that cannot be replicated, built around Messi and the unity of the group that delivered every major trophy
The most successful national team in recent years is born from a tactical and emotional revolution desired by its coach, which has its roots in the history of the country and celebrates the superstar wearing the number 10 jersey.
Between Spain and Belgium, the only real difference was the quality of the substitutes (and that is not good news for La Roja)
Not only Merino, who decided the game himself: De la Fuente’s substitutes maintained Spain’s level, unlike Garcia’s.
Barcelona are increasingly looking beyond La Masia for young talent from around the world
The signings of Joni Hernández and Juan Ybarra are the latest sign of an increasingly diverse club strategy.