The latest Manchester City transfer news includes updates on Rodri and Ayyoub Bouaddi as the club enter the final weeks of the transfer window

Manchester City are ready to replace any midfield players who leave this month in addition to bringing in Ayyoub Bouaddi. The club are making progress in their efforts to sign the Lille midfielder, who will arrive regardless of any departures.

While the arrivals of both Bouaddi and club record signing Elliot Anderson for a combined fee that could reach up to £200m would be an exciting and needed refresh of the midfield, City fans are desperately hoping that they will not lose both Bernardo Silva and Rodri in the same summer. Silva has left on a free transfer for Real Madrid and Real and Barcelona are also circling for Rodri, who is into the final year of his contract at the Etihad and has not been moved by City’s attempts to keep him.

City would only consider losing Rodri for the right fee but also if they were able to sign a replacement, and the same goes for Tijjani Reijnders. The Dutch midfielder only signed last summer but had a frustrating year under Pep Guardiola and is looking likely to leave amid interest from Nottingham Forest, Newcastle and Galatasaray.

Were both Reijnders and Rodri to be sold, City would sign another two midfield players on top of Bouaddi and Anderson. Mateo Kovacic is content to stay at the club for the final year of his contract after being told that the club are counting on him, and Nico Gonzalez is also planning on being part of Enzo Maresca’s squad.

City’s replacement policy also applies to other positions, so there would be another signing if Tottenham seal a deal for Brazilian winger Savinho. Maresca could not offer any assurances that Savinho or Reijnders would remain at the club when asked on Wednesday in Seoul after City’s second friendly of their Asia trip.

Together with the January signings of Antoine Semenyo and Marc Guehi, the club are confident that the summer will back up their recent business to give Maresca the best possible chance of achieving success at the Etihad.

Manchester United agreed the youngster Cristian Orozco’s transfer last year, but had to wait until this summer for his arrival

Manchester United have officially announced the signing of Cristian Orozco, who arrived from Fortaleza CEIF. United agreed a deal with the Colombian club last year, but the terms stated he would only make the move once the summer window opened, as he needed to turn 18 to complete the transfer.

Orozco officially began his United career when he celebrated his 18th birthday last month. He then made his first public appearance for United in the friendly against Altrincham last week, coming off the bench just after the hour mark and offering a glimpse of his quality during a bright cameo.

Early glimpses have been positive, and he already appears more physically advanced than previous United signings of a similar profile, such as Sekou Kone and Diego Leon.

The midfielder does not speak English, so coaches have been relaying instructions through a handful of Spanish‑speaking players – including Leon, who has been particularly helpful in passing information on.

Sources close to the club stress they will ‘take it slowly’ with Orozco as he still needs time to adapt to the demands of the club and the level.

Orozco’s signing was formally announced on Thursday. A club statement confirming the move, read: “Manchester United have completed the signing of exciting young midfielder Cristian Orozco. The 18-year-old joins from Colombian Categoria Primera A side, Fortaleza CEIF.

“Orozco, who was developed in Rojo FC’s academy, played five first-team games for Fortaleza last season and has represented Colombia up to Under-17s level. He will initially be supported by the Academy while he settles into life at Manchester United.

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“Everyone at the club would like to welcome Cristian to United and wish him the very best of luck.”

United boss Michael Carrick has continued to hand opportunities to youngsters throughout pre‑season.

Carrick has been a strong advocate for the academy since his interim appointment in January, regularly attending youth fixtures, and he has maintained that faith in emerging talent during the current pre‑season campaign.

Orozco could soon be among the next youngsters to be handed an opportunity.

United’s under‑21s will kick off their season on August 18 with an away trip to Middlesbrough (7pm).

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi (10) celebrates after scoring his side’s third goal during the first half of a Leagues Cup soccer match against Atletico de San Luis, Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026, in Miami. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

Lionel Messi needed just one full game after returning from the FIFA World Cup to add another record to his extraordinary career. Making his first start since captaining Argentina to a second successive World Cup final, the Inter Miami forward scored twice in a 4-2 victory over Atlético San Luis to become the all-time leading scorer in Leagues Cup history as the MLS side opened its 2026 campaign with an impressive comeback win.

Record falls on World Cup return

There was little sign of rust after Messi’s post-World Cup break.Having made a brief substitute appearance in Inter Miami’s 2-2 MLS draw with the Columbus Crew, the Argentine returned to the starting lineup on Wednesday and immediately reminded supporters why he remains the centrepiece of the club’s attack.Atlético San Luis struck first when David Rodríguez glanced home in the fourth minute, but Inter Miami’s response was immediate.Running onto Noah Allen’s cross, Messi met the delivery with a superb first-time volley in the 11th minute to bring his side level before later producing another composed finish in the closing stages of the first half after intricate build-up play involving Allen.Those two goals took his tally in the competition to 14 goals in just 12 appearances, moving him ahead of Los Angeles FC forward Denis Bouanga to become the outright leading scorer in Leagues Cup history.

Inter Miami turn the game around

Messi was involved in almost everything Inter Miami created after the break.He also registered an assist as Inter Miami overturned the early deficit, with Telasco Segovia giving the hosts the lead midway through the first half after another excellent pass from Allen.Defender Micael added the fourth goal after the interval to complete a convincing 4-2 victory, while Allen enjoyed one of the finest performances of his career by providing three assists in a single match for the first time.

Inter Miami forward Lionel Messi (10) picks up the ball and runs after scoring his side’s first goal past Atletico de San Luis goalkeeper Andres Sanchez (1) during the first half of a Leagues Cup soccer match, Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026, in Miami. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell)

The result extended Inter Miami’s unbeaten run to eight matches across all competitions and provided the ideal start to another Leagues Cup campaign.

Competition where Messi continues to thrive

Few tournaments have suited Messi quite like the Leagues Cup.Shortly after arriving in the United States in 2023, he inspired Inter Miami to the club’s first major trophy by leading them to the inaugural Leagues Cup title. Three years later, he has now added another individual milestone to that success.The brace against Atlético San Luis also became his fifth multi-goal performance in just 12 Leagues Cup appearances, underlining the consistency with which he has influenced the competition since its expansion to include clubs from Major League Soccer and Liga MX.

Perfect response after the World Cup

Messi’s return had been eagerly anticipated after Argentina’s run to a second consecutive FIFA World Cup final, where the defending champions were beaten 1-0 by Spain.Inter Miami managed to remain competitive during his absence, with Luis Suárez helping steady the team in MLS action following the World Cup. However, the Uruguayan was unavailable against San Luis as he began serving the first match of a six-game suspension.Messi’s immediate return to form ensured Miami scarcely felt that absence.With Monterrey next on the schedule in the Leagues Cup, Inter Miami have not only welcomed back their captain but also seen him resume a familiar habit—breaking another record almost as soon as he stepped back onto the pitch.

India captain Shubman Gill reportedly copped multiple blows during the team’s training session in Colombo on the eve of the three-day practice game against Sri Lanka XI. According to a report in Times Now, Gill was struck on his right thumb while batting against seamer Gurnoor Brar. While he continued his practice after the physio strapped up his thumb, Gill was once again hit while fielding at first slip. Fortunately, the Indian skipper was able to continue his session without any discomfort.

“After facing a few more deliveries against the pacers, Gill moved to the spin nets and completed the remainder of his batting session,” the report said.

The Indian team arrived in Colombo earlier this week, ahead of a two-match series against the hosts. The first Test gets underway in Galle on August 15, while the second game will be played at the SSC in Colombo from August 23.

India had a light training session on Wednesday, more focused on acclimatising to the Sri Lankan conditions. However, the Gill-led side had a full-fledged session under the watchful eyes of head coach Gautam Gambhir on Thursday.

The series marks India’s first assignment in the ICC World Test Championship since their disappointing home defeat to South Africa late last year.

Since then, India have responded positively, registering a victory in the one-off Test against Afghanistan in June. However, the young side will be determined to clinch the series in Sri Lanka, knowing a strong start to their World Test Championship campaign could significantly boost their hopes of reaching next year’s final at The Oval.

India currently sit fifth on the World Test Championship standings with a points percentage of 48.15, trailing Australia, South Africa, New Zealand, and Bangladesh.

India’s squad for the series features a mix of promising young talent and a couple of new faces.

(With ANI Inputs)

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Alas Pilipinas standout Owa Retamar is set to play for Azerbaijan-based club Ordu Sports. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Owa Retamar becomes the first Filipino to play in the 2026–27 CEV Volleyball Challenge Cup, also known as the European Cup, joining Azerbaijan-based team Ordu Sports Club.

The Alas Pilipinas setter on Thursday was welcomed by Ordu Sports Club, as he is set to join the team on August 11. The season is from November to April, with 64 clubs competing.

“This is a dream come true and a challenge that I’m truly excited to embrace,” said Retamar. 

“Playing in Europe has always been one of my aspirations because it allows me to compete against some of the best players in the world and continue growing as an athlete. While I may be wearing the colors of Ordu Sports Club, I know that I will still be carrying the Philippines with me on another playing field.”

“ Every match is an opportunity to show the world what Filipino volleyball players are capable of, and I hope this journey inspires more young athletes to dream bigger and believe that opportunities beyond Asia are possible,” he added.

VP Global Management, Retamar’s agency, said that discussions with Ordu Sports Club had been ongoing for several months, reflecting the club’s confidence in Retamar’s ability to lead its offense as one of the team’s primary playmakers.

“For a setter, joining the team ahead of the season is extremely important. Building chemistry with teammates cannot be rushed, and Joshua’s early arrival will allow him to fully integrate into the team’s system before official competitions begin,” VP Global Management wrote.

Ordu Sports Club, a seven-time Azerbaijan Men’s Super League champion, expressed its confidence in the young Filipino setter, who led Visakha VC to a runner-up finish in the Techo Volleyball Cambodia League last month and a bronze in his first stint with the club in the 4th Sar Kheng Cup early this year.

“In ORDU VK’s talented roster, Joshua Retamar’s role is expected to attract special attention. Surrounded by experienced players, the young setter will continue to develop while bringing speed, determination, and a winning mentality to the team,” the team wrote

“This transfer is not only for the club’s present ambitions but is also a strategic investment in its future. We believe your energy, volleyball intelligence, and courageous decision-making will play a vital role in our team’s future success.”

Retamar is a decorated setter in the country, shining in the FIVB World Championship last year and leading Alas back to the podium with a bronze in the Southeast Asian Games.

In his rookie year for the men’s national volleyball team, Retamar was the main playmaker of the historic silver medal team in the 2019 SEA Games. He is also a two-time UAAP champion, Finals MVP, and Best Setter out of National University.

OOLTEWAH, Tenn. – After two rounds of stroke play at the 2026 U.S. Women’s Amateur, two players sit atop the leaderboard.

Anna Iwanaga, a 17-year-old from Japan, held onto her first-round lead to earn co-medalist honors, at six under, alongside 15-year-old Hailey Kim of Simi Valley, Calif.

Just one stroke behind the co-medalists was 17-year-old Asterisk Talley, whose second-round 3-under 69 secured her the No. 3 seed entering match play.

The players battled more than just one another. A weather delay of nearly two and a half hours suspended second-round play on Wednesday and forced competitors to return the following day to complete their rounds.After regular play concluded, nine players were tied at five over, with just two spots remaining in the 64-player match play field: Bridget Boczar, Paula Francisco, Sarah Lydic, Claire Swathwood, Eliana Saga, Kathryn VanArragon, Nobelle Park, Addison Klonowski and Hsin Chun Liao.

The playoff began on the 10th hole. The 407-yard, par-4’s demanding layout quickly narrowed the field, eliminating Park, Swathwood, Lydic and Francisco. The remaining five competitors battled for more than two hours, extending the playoff through three more holes.

On the third hole, the par-4 15th, VanArragon and Saga were eliminated after Boczar, Klonowski and Liao each made birdie to extend the playoff. The final two spots were decided on the following hole — the par-3 16th — where the tee shot over water heightened the pressure.

After missing the green to the left, Boczar made bogey, leaving her fate in the hands of her competitors. Klonowski faced a birdie attempt from roughly 20 feet, rolling it close to leave herself a short par putt. Moments later, Liao confidently buried a 10-foot birdie putt to punch her ticket into the match-play bracket.

All eyes turned to Klonowski as she stepped over her short par putt and rolled it into the heart of the cup. Following the playoff, Klonowski credited her teammate, who was on the bag, for helping her stay composed on the course.

FILE– Alex Eala and Venus Williams during their round of 16 match in the Bad Homburg Open doubles. PHOTO: BAD HOMBURG OPEN

MANILA, Philippines — Alex Eala is back on center court in Toronto, this time alongside a legend.

Eala and partner Venus Williams return as a doubles team at the 2026 Canadian Open on Friday, with their round-of-32 match scheduled no earlier than 8 a.m. (Manila time).

READ: Alex Eala keeps celebration going with Filipino fans in Toronto

“I’m really, really excited to be playing doubles with her again. Every opportunity I get to share the court with her is super cherished,” Eala said. “She’s super good, and I think she’s got a great mentality and there’s so much I can learn from her.”

The Filipino-American duo takes on Liudmila Samsonova and Japan’s Miyu Kato.

It will be Eala’s second appearance on center court after opening her singles campaign with a three-set victory over Alycia Parks on Thursday.

READ: Venus Williams calls Alex Eala her ‘best partner’ after team-up

The stands for her first match at the WTA 1000 event were packed to the brim with Filipino fans, and Eala expects another electric atmosphere when she takes the court with Williams.

“So really excited to be doing that, and in a different setting. I think it will be very fun. I think with the Filipino community and the amazing fans that she has, I think it will be a great atmosphere,” Eala said.

Eala and Williams are teaming up for the second time since the Bad Homburg Open in Germany, where they reached the quarterfinals.

They were also slated to reunite at the Mubadala DC Open before Eala withdrew from the doubles draw to focus on singles, where she captured her first WTA Tour title.

Jubilee Stadium will play host to Sunday’s
Round 23 NRL game between St. George Illawarra Dragons and
Cronulla Sharks. The game kicks off at 4:05 pm with Cronulla Sharks heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the St. George Illawarra Dragons vs.
Cronulla Sharks
game and give you our free tips and bets.

When: Sunday August 9, 2026 at 4:05 pm

Where: Jubilee Stadium

Bet 💰: Bet On This Match HERE

St. George Illawarra Dragons vs Cronulla Sharks Odds

St. George Illawarra Dragons vs Cronulla Sharks Preview

Cronulla will look to extend its outstanding run of form when it crosses southern Sydney to face St George Illawarra on Sunday afternoon. The Sharks have won 10 of their past 11 matches and remain firmly in the race for the minor premiership, while the Dragons continue to battle through a difficult campaign despite showing resilience in recent weeks.

The Sharks have won 11 of the past 12 meetings between the clubs and again enter the local derby as strong favourites. Mawene Hiroti comes into the Cronulla side after KL Iro’s concussion, while the Dragons reshuffle their forward pack following Toby Couchman’s injury. Nicho Hynes has consistently excelled against St George Illawarra, and another influential performance from the star halfback could keep the Sharks’ impressive late-season charge rolling.