Lead:
Seib Blatter, the former FIFA president, launched a sharp attack on his successor Gianni Infantino on Wednesday, calling him a dictator and saying he needs psychiatric care. Blatter, 90, criticised several Infantino decisions including awarding a FIFA Peace Prize to U.S. President Donald Trump and plans to sell World Cup commercial rights.
Top Stories:
Kylian Mbappe and Zinedine Zidane tensions escalate in French national team camp — Reports indicate a complex relationship between the Real Madrid forward and new manager Zidane, with disagreements over technical choices and deteriorating relations with teammate Ousman Dembele, raising questions about squad harmony ahead of upcoming fixtures.Arsene Wenger studies 2027 FIFA presidency bid — The former Arsenal manager and current FIFA chief of global football development is considering running against Infantino in March 2027 elections, with backing from UEFA pushing him to contest. Wenger, 77, has not yet made a final decision despite treating the possibility seriously.Egypt appoints new football coaching staff under Ali Maher — The Egyptian Football Association presented its new technical team led by Ali Maher, with federation president Hani Abo Rida thanking outgoing manager Hossam Hassan and his brother Ibrahim. Maher emphasised time constraints as his main challenge and committed to building on previous achievements.Moaz Wael wins bronze for UAE in Youth Olympic boxing — The Emirates boxer secured a bronze medal in the 70kg weight class at Dakar 2026 after defeating Ghana's Robert Amarti in the quarterfinals, guaranteeing a medal despite later losing in the semifinal to a British opponent. The UAE's boxing haul at the youth Games reached five medals.Spain squad concerns over Lamin Yamal availability for England — Manager Luis de la Fuente expressed optimism Wednesday that Barcelona winger Lamin Yamal, 19, may be available for the Nations League match against England on Sunday after missing the Czech Republic fixture due to a knee issue. Yamal is expected to rejoin the squad after the Prague game.Virgil van Dijk opens door to Liverpool exit — The Netherlands defender and club captain said Wednesday he feels no concern about his future, remaining open to leaving if contract renewal negotiations fail before his deal expires at season's end. Van Dijk confirmed his desire to continue playing regardless of his next destination.What to Watch:
Italy host France in UEFA Nations League League A on Thursday evening in Milan, with Kylian Mbappe's fitness status uncertain and new signing Seni Mayoulo available for selection after his first call-up.
Spain face Czech Republic the same evening, with Lamin Yamal expected to return to the squad and target a starting role against England three days later.