England's women's football team is preparing to start their World Cup campaign with a match against Haiti. Since winning the European Championship a year ago, the team has undergone changes, including injuries to key players and retirements. The article focuses on the debate between two writers, Ryan Sidle and Ella Scott, about who should be the starting striker for England, Alessia Russo or Rachel Daly. Russo, who recently moved from Manchester United to Arsenal, is praised for her past performance and versatility on the field. Daly, who plays for Aston Villa, is highlighted for her impressive goal-scoring record, including winning the Golden Boot in the Women's Super League. The article discusses the strengths of both players and their potential impact on England's World Cup chances.

The article previews the Women's World Cup, highlighting the USA as the favorites and Megan Rapinoe's potential retirement. It assesses the chances of all 32 teams, with detailed analysis on their recent performances and key players. Panama and the Philippines are considered least likely to succeed, while the USA, England, and Spain are seen as top contenders. The article emphasizes the impact of home advantage for Australia and discusses the challenges faced by Spain's team due to internal conflicts. Key players from various teams, such as Sam Kerr of Australia and England's Lucy Bronze, are mentioned as pivotal to their teams' success.

The article features an interview with former footballer Thomas Hitzlsperger, known as 'Der Hammer' for his powerful long-range shots. Hitzlsperger discusses his career, starting from his youth at Bayern Munich to his time in the Premier League with Aston Villa, where he earned his nickname. He also talks about his loan to Chesterfield, his experiences with various managers, and teammates like Gareth Southgate. The German midfielder reflects on his later stints at West Ham and Everton, which were marred by injuries, leading to his early retirement at 31. Despite a somewhat disappointing end to his time at Aston Villa, Hitzlsperger holds no regrets and cherishes the memories and friendships from his time in Birmingham. The article concludes by emphasizing the lasting impact Hitzlsperger's nickname and playing style had on fans, ensuring that 'the streets will never forget Der Hammer'.

The article discusses the lack of support for Spanish footballer Jenni Hermoso following her sexual assault by Luis Rubiales, the head of the Spanish FA. Despite the Spanish women's team's World Cup victory, the celebration has been overshadowed by Rubiales' actions and the inadequate response from the football community. Sarina Wiegman, the winner of the Women's Coach of the Year award, dedicated her award to the Spanish team and highlighted the need for progress in women's football and society. The article criticizes the silence of male figures in football and contrasts it with the support shown to Benjamin Mendy after his acquittal of rape charges. It also condemns Rubiales' statement, which attempted to portray himself as a victim and an advocate for feminism, as gaslighting and misogyny.

IShowSpeed, an American social media personality, was thrilled to meet Neymar following a pre-season friendly between Paris Saint-Germain and Al Nassr. Neymar, who has been sidelined due to injury and has faced criticism from PSG fans, did not play in the match that ended in a 0-0 draw. Despite rumors of a transfer and personal issues, Neymar's high wages have made a move difficult. IShowSpeed also attended Lionel Messi's first game in America for Inter Miami, expressing support for Messi during the match.

Nate Diaz has refuted claims that he would throw his debut boxing fight against Jake Paul, expressing disdain for the idea of being paid to lose. Diaz, who recently left the UFC, is set to fight Paul on August 5th in a 10 round match. Despite accusations of fixed fights in Paul's previous bouts with former MMA stars, Diaz insists he has not been approached with such an offer and would expose any such attempts. Diaz, known for his toughness in the UFC but without a title to his name, is expected by some to be defeated by Paul, as suggested by unimpressive sparring footage.

Ronaldinho's transfer to FC Barcelona 20 years ago is remembered for his impressive skills displayed during his presentation at the Nou Camp. His time at Barcelona, which included winning two La Liga titles and the Champions League, began with a unique home debut against Sevilla that started after midnight due to his return from international duty. Ronaldinho's signing was a key part of Joan Laporta's presidential campaign, and his subsequent success at the club is still celebrated today.

An AI system has selected the greatest Premier League XI of all time, including Steven Gerrard but excluding Frank Lampard and Paul Scholes. The team features Peter Schmeichel in goal, Ashley Cole at left back, John Terry and Rio Ferdinand as centre backs, and a diamond midfield without wingers, consisting of Roy Keane, Patrick Vieira, and Kevin De Bruyne. The forwards are the league's all-time top scorer and Thierry Henry. The selection has sparked discussions about various players' legacies and the AI's choice of formation.

Declan Rice is set to join Arsenal from West Ham United for a fee that could reach £105 million. Arsenal will pay £100 million over 24 months, with an additional £5 million contingent on Champions League qualifications and Rice's participation. The transfer follows Manchester City's withdrawal from the bidding and completes a busy period for Arsenal, which also saw the signing of Jurrien Timber and the earlier acquisition of Kai Havertz. Sky Sports' Kaveh Solhekol provided details on the transfer's financial structure and the delay caused by paperwork.

Declan Rice has issued a farewell to West Ham United fans as his transfer to Arsenal is confirmed for a British record fee. In his open letter, Rice expressed his mixed emotions and gratitude, while also warning that his professional loyalties now lie with his new club, promising to give 100% when facing his former team. The first Premier League match between the two teams is scheduled for Boxing Day, with Rice returning to the London Stadium on February 10th.

Jordan Henderson is facing criticism from Liverpool's LGBT+ fan group Kops Out over rumors of his potential transfer to Saudi Arabia's Al Ettifaq, a move seen as contradictory to his support for the LGBT+ community. The group expressed disappointment, highlighting the oppression of women and LGBT+ individuals in Saudi Arabia. Henderson has been an ally to the community, participating in the Stonewall campaign and advocating for inclusivity in football. The transfer would also raise questions about sportswashing and the prioritization of financial gain over sporting values and human rights.

Everton has expressed support for Dele Alli following his candid interview with Gary Neville on The Overlap, where he discussed his mental health struggles, addiction to sleeping pills, and past experiences of sexual abuse and selling drugs as a child. Both Everton and his former club Tottenham Hotspur have commended Alli's bravery. Everton emphasized the importance of player welfare and requested privacy for Alli as he continues his recovery. Alli, who transferred to Everton in January 2022 and was loaned to Besiktas, is hoped to have a successful return to Merseyside.