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Furious USMNT Legend Clint Dempsey Slams 2026 World Cup Manager on Live TV
Former United States international Clint Dempsey launched a furious response to Canada head coach Jesse Marsch on live TV during day two of the 2026 World Cup.

Canada and the United States' men's teams were both in action on Friday.

Marsch's Canada came from behind to draw 1-1 with Bosnia and Herzegovina, while the United States secured an emphatic 4-1 win over Paraguay - a match which saw football history made with the first-ever 'Mistaken Identity' VAR check.

Marsch: 'We Had to Beg US Players to Sing National Anthem'
Marsch, who was capped twice by the United States as a player and went on to work as an assistant coach under Bob Bradley, caused a stir this week by saying they had to sometimes "beg players to sing the national anthem" when he was part of the US setup.

Speaking about his current players, Marsch was quoted by The Guardian saying: "Every one of these boys is incredibly Canadian and the pride they have in putting on the jersey, representing the country, hearing the national anthem."

He added: "In the US sometimes we had to beg players to sing the national anthem ... these guys belt it out to the top of their lungs because they want to show the country how proud they are to be here, to be Canadians and to represent what Canada is."

Dempsey Issues Stinging Response to Marsch
Dempsey, the former Fulham and Tottenham star who now works as a pundit, was told of Marsch's eyebrow-raising comments ahead of Friday's two World Cup fixtures and issued a stinging response.

"He really said that?" Dempsey asked. "Man, I can't take this guy too seriously. It was an honour for me growing up and represent my country. When the national anthem happened, I wasn't someone who normally would sing. I put my hand over my heart, and I'd pray to the good man upstairs.


And as my boy Titi [Thierry Henry] would say, stay in your own lane. It looks like he's in a dang moped, so worry about your own team." Watch the clip below:

https://x.com/usmntonly/status/2065509902320325087

Dempsey is the joint-leading scorer in the history of the US Men's National Team with 57 goals. He earned 141 caps for his country between 2004-2017, putting him fourth for most appearances in the nation's history behind Cobi Jones (164 caps), Landon Donovan (157 caps) and Michael Bradley (151 caps).



https://www.givemesport.com/clint-dempsey-slams-canada-jesse-marsch-world-cup/

World Cup 2026: Jedi and Luc begin campaigns
Antonee Robinson helped the United States make the perfect start to their World Cup campaign.

Jedi and his teammates produced a rampant display to defeat Paraguay 4-1 in Los Angeles.

The score was 3-0 by half-time, with Jedi playing a key role in the second goal. His drilled pass set Christian Pulisic free down the left, with the AC Milan winger's cutback finding Folarin Balogun to finish.

Former Arsenal striker Balogun was at the double in the first period, following up an early own goal from Damián Bobadilla to put the United States in a commanding position.

Paraguay aimed to launch the comeback with a goal 17 minutes from time, but an audacious finish from Giovanni Reyna with the outside of his boot made it a dream start for Mauricio Pochettino's side.

Luc De Fougerolles made his World Cup debut as Canada claimed their first ever point in the competition with a 1-1 draw against Bosnia.

They were made to work for it, going behind as Jovo Lukić flicked home from a set piece to give Bosnia the lead.

The 20-year-old, confident and assured throughout, saw plenty of the ball in the second half as Canada pushed for the equaliser, and it eventually arrived through a delightful turn and finish from Cyle Larin.

"It was bittersweet," said Luc post-match. "We had the better chances and could have won the game, maybe should have won the game, but when it got to 80 minutes and we were still 1-0 down, we'll take a point."

Asked about whether he'd yet had a moment to take it all in, Luc said: "I think at the start I couldn't really believe it. When the anthem was going, when you could hear the crowd, it was a pinch me moment. Once the game starts, you realise it's business time and that it's time to work.

"Football is a game you've played your whole life, and this is just another game, so you have to think like that to not let the occasion get the better of all of us."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/june/13/world-cup-2026-jedi-and-luc-begin-campaigns/

"The emotional side carried great weight" – Marco Silva reveals why he left Fulham
Marco Silva has used his first press conference as Benfica coach to explain why he walked away from Fulham, while also shutting down immediate speculation over potential reunions with players from his former club.

Silva was officially presented by Benfica on Friday alongside president Rui Costa, bringing an end to one of Portugal's longest-running managerial sagas of recent months.

And while much of the discussion surrounding his appointment focused on the negotiations which took him from Craven Cottage to Lisbon, the 48-year-old was more interested in discussing why he made the move in the first place.

No Fulham signings planned
A Bola relayed all of his responses. And one of the first questions Silva faced concerned potential arrivals from Fulham.

Harry Wilson's name was mentioned directly, while reporters also asked whether any players from his former club could follow him to Benfica this summer. Jorge Cuenca was linked with a move to Lisbon as well. But the new Benfica manager immediately poured cold water on that idea.

"A large part of my coaching staff will accompany me," Silva said. "As for signings, I'm not going to comment. At this moment there is no Fulham player on Benfica's agenda."

That should quickly cool suggestions that Benfica could immediately target members of the squad Silva spent the last five years working with in west London.

Benfica changed his plans
Perhaps the most revealing moment of the press conference came when Silva discussed his decision to leave England. The Portuguese coach admitted that returning home was not part of his plans when the season began.

"Rui Costa was very clear," Silva explained when discussing the Benfica president's approach. "The club needed a coach and was looking for one. I understood the openness.

"I won't hide it – if you had asked me months ago whether my objective was to return to Portugal, I would have said no," he revealed.

"But I spoke with the president, it was something he really wanted, and the first conversation happened in a positive and clear way."

So, he effectively confirmed that the club's approach changed the direction of his career plans.

Why leave the Premier League?
Silva was also asked directly why he would leave what many consider the world's strongest league for a Benfica side that will not play Champions League football next season.

His answer left little room for doubt.

"It is a reality and I won't say it was a difficult decision or an easy decision," he said. "I won't hide my connection to the Premier League. I felt very good in England and it took a lot for me to establish my name there."

"The emotional side carried great weight in my decision. I felt the challenge was enormous and that we were prepared for it. There is no different reason other than the name Benfica."

For months, Portuguese media had reported that Silva's emotional connection to Benfica was becoming increasingly important in his thinking. And in the end they were right.

'Pressure is a privilege'
Silva also made it clear he is embracing the expectations that come with managing one of Portugal's biggest clubs.

"Being at Benfica brings responsibility," he said. "If pressure doesn't exist, I am the first person who will create it. Pressure is a privilege. There will be moments when it is very strong and others when we can enjoy ourselves, but we have to be capable of handling it."

"I know that when things are less positive, all the pressure falls on the manager, and I am ready for that. I feel privileged to be here", he stated.

So after weeks of negotiations, speculation and uncertainty, Silva's focus was no longer on how he got the job.

Instead, Benfica's new manager used his first appearance to explain why he accepted it – and why the club's name ultimately proved strong enough to pull him away from Fulham.



https://sportwitness.co.uk/the-emotional-side-carried-great-weight-marco-silva-reveals-why-he-left-fulham/

Stevenage sign Fulham striker Sanderson
Stevenage have signed striker Olly Sanderson from Fulham on a two-year contract, with the terms of the deal undisclosed.

The 22-year-old came through the youth system at Craven Cottage but did not make a senior appearance for the Premier League side.

The Chichester-born player had two loan spells in non-league with Oxford City before gaining EFL experience with short-term moves to Sutton United, Bradford City and Harrogate Town.

He spent last season on loan at Woking in the National League, scoring 19 goals in 41 appearances.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cn75gvzx7xlo

Fulham in advanced talks to appoint Arbeloa as Silva's replacement
Fulham are in advanced talks to appoint Alvaro Arbeloa as a replacement for outgoing manager Marco Silva.

Silva spent five years in charge at Craven Cottage but has opted to leave for Portuguese giants Benfica after they lost Jose Mourinho to Real Madrid.

Arbeloa, 43, was in charge at Madrid at the end of last season on an interim basis, having replaced incoming Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso midway through the campaign.

He is now the lead contender for the role in west London.

Talks are ongoing and, while a full agreement has not been reached, the club are working towards the expectation that Arbeloa will be their next boss.

Arbeloa spent his entire coaching career at Madrid, working his way up from the youth teams to the interim position last season.

As a player, he had two spells at the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid and also played in the Premier League for both Liverpool and West Ham.

The Cottagers are also known to have held talks with Kieran McKenna, but it would have cost £8m to release him from his contract at Ipswich Town. He has since departed the club, saying he wanted a break to spend time with his family.

Fulham finished 11th in the Premier League last season.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/c5yzv0p2p2zo

Trabzonspor ready to sell Super Eagles CB if Fulham and rivals submit N55b-plus bid
Chibuke Nwaiwu could be on his way out of Trabzonspor if the club receive a major offer for the highly-rated defender in the summer transfer window, according to Turkish outlet Taka Gazete.

The Turkish Super side are willing to consider selling the Super Eagles centre-back should an offer exceeding €35 million (approximately N55 billion) arrive amid  interest from English clubs, including Fulham.

Trabzonspor's transfer plans are not focused solely on strengthening their attacking options, with the club also preparing for possible changes in defence.

While Nwaiwu remains an important part of their squad, Trabzonspor are believed to be open to a lucrative sale if his valuation is met.

The Nigerian defender has attracted interest from several clubs in England, with Fulham among those monitoring his situation as they continue to assess defensive reinforcements.

Should Nwaiwu depart, Trabzonspor have already identified a potential replacement in young Gambian defender Abubacarr Sedi Kinteh, who currently plays for Tromsø IL.

Trabzonspor are interested in making a €7 million offer for Kinteh as they look to secure a long-term option at centre-back.
Nwaiwu joined Trabzonspor in the second half of last season and impressed both defensively and offensively, scoring three headed goals, including the match-winner against champions Galatasaray.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel



https://allnigeriasoccer.com/trabzonspor-ready-to-sell-super-eagles-cb-if-fulham-and-rivals-submit-n55b-plus-bid

Alvaro Arbeloa heading to the Premier League! Fulham move closer to hiring ex-Real Madrid manager as Marco Silva replacement
Fulham have stepped up their search for a new head coach by entering advanced negotiations with former Real Madrid boss Alvaro Arbeloa. The Spaniard has emerged as the leading candidate to succeed Marco Silva as the Whites look to maintain their Premier League momentum with a high-profile appointment.

Arbeloa leads the race for Craven Cottage vacancy
According to reports by talkSPORT, Fulham appear to have found their man in the search for Silva's successor, with Arbeloa now the firm favourite to take the reins at Craven Cottage. Following a period of uncertainty, the West London club have pivoted towards the former Real Madrid defender, who recently became available after a brief stint in the dugout at the Bernabeu.

The 43-year-old stepped in as Real Madrid interim boss following Xabi Alonso's departure in January but was unable to prevent the Spanish side from crashing out of the Copa del Rey, Champions League and La Liga title race. Following this, and with Jose Mourinho returning to Madrid as the next permanent boss, Arbeloa officially left Los Blancos on Tuesday, clearing the path for a potential move to the Premier League. Fulham have acted quickly to hold talks with the Spaniard, showing significant ambition to land a coach who boasts pedigree at the highest level of European football from his distinguished playing career.

Overcoming the Kieran McKenna setback
The pursuit of Arbeloa comes after Fulham were forced to look at alternative options following a breakthrough in their initial plans. Kieran McKenna had been heavily linked with the role and was previously considered the favourite to take over after his departure from Ipswich Town. However, any hopes of landing the Northern Irishman were dashed when he clarified his immediate intentions.

McKenna, who guided Ipswich to the top flight, announced his resignation as boss but stunned suitors by stating he is taking a break from football management altogether. Despite this disappointment, the Fulham hierarchy have refused to lower their sights, moving swiftly to engage with Arbeloa within days of his departure from Madrid.

Shortlist features Lampard and Ferreira
While Arbeloa is the current frontrunner, Fulham have explored several high-profile names to ensure they get the right fit for the squad. Chelsea legend and current Coventry manager Frank Lampard remains a contender for the position, alongside Abel Ferreira, who has impressed during his tenure with Brazilian giants Palmeiras. The board is determined to find a manager capable of building on the tactical foundations laid by Silva.

Another name discussed in the boardroom was Ruben Amorim. The former Manchester United boss is highly regarded across Europe, though it remains unclear whether he would be open to a move to Craven Cottage at this stage of his career. He is also reported to be in advanced talks with AC Milan.

Familiar faces and Portuguese connections
Among the other candidates is Hugo Oliveira, the current head coach of Portuguese side Famalicao. Oliveira would represent a continuity of sorts, having previously served as a member of Silva's coaching staff during his successful spell with the club. His knowledge of the existing squad and the internal workings of Fulham could make him a sensible alternative if a deal for Arbeloa does not cross the finish line.

The managerial vacancy at Craven Cottage opened up after Silva parted ways with Fulham to take over at Portuguese giants Benfica. Silva departed recently after guiding the West London club to a stable 11th-place finish before deciding to return to his homeland for a new managerial challenge.



https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/alvaro-arbeloa-premier-league-fulham-real-madrid-manager-marco-silva-replacement/blt1305ed3dfe81cab4?utm_id=fa3iys5y8hyz9ezk&utm_source_platform=newsnow

Fulham closing in on Alvaro Arbeloa appointment as former Real Madrid manager emerges as leading candidate
Fulham are closing in on the appointment of Alvaro Arbeloa as their new head coach following a fresh round of talks with the former Real Madrid boss, TEAMtalk can reveal.

Sources in Spain have confirmed to us that Arbeloa is ready to make a return to England as he prepares for the next chapter of his coaching career.

The 43-year-old is now emerging as the clear frontrunner to replace Marco Silva at Fulham, with discussions progressing positively between all parties.

Should a deal be completed, Arbeloa would return to London almost a decade after ending his playing career with West Ham United in 2017.

While best remembered by English fans for his spell with Liverpool between 2007 and 2009, the majority of Arbeloa's playing career was spent with Real Madrid, where he won multiple major honours and established himself as one of Spain's most decorated defenders of his generation.

Arbeloa's coaching career has followed a similar path. The Spaniard has spent the last six years working his way through Madrid's coaching structure, earning a reputation as one of the club's brightest young managerial talents.

Most recently, Arbeloa stepped up to take charge following Xabi Alonso's departure, adding to previous roles within the academy system and with Castilla.

TEAMtalk understands that both new Madrid boss Jose Mourinho and club president Florentino Perez were keen for Arbeloa to remain at Estadio Bernabeu.

However, sources indicate that the Spaniard feels the time is right to take on his first senior managerial role away from Spain and test himself in one of Europe's most demanding leagues.

Want more breaking transfer lines from original sources? Add TEAMtalk as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trust.

Fulham's search for Silva's successor has been extensive.

We have previously revealed Fulham's interest in a number of high-profile candidates, including Thomas Frank and Ruben Amorim.

The Cottagers held discussions with former Tottenham boss Frank, while ex-Manchester United manager Amorim was also considered before ultimately distancing himself from the role.

Former Liverpool manager Arne Slot was another name explored during the process but did not progress.

We can also confirm that Ange Postecoglou was interviewed by Fulham during their search, while former Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna and Coventry City boss Frank Lampard were both admired internally and assessed as potential options.

Despite that lengthy shortlist, Arbeloa has steadily emerged as the candidate generating the greatest excitement within Fulham's hierarchy.

Club officials have been impressed by both his coaching credentials and the development work he has carried out at Madrid, while his understanding of elite-level football is viewed as a major asset.

Sources suggest Fulham believe Arbeloa possesses the profile to build on the foundations left by Silva while also bringing fresh ideas and a long-term vision to the club.

While an agreement has not yet been finalised and negotiations remain ongoing, we understand that talks are moving in the right direction.

As things stand, Arbeloa is firmly positioned as Fulham's leading choice, and there is growing confidence that the former Liverpool, Madrid and Spain defender could soon be preparing for a move to Craven Cottage.



https://www.teamtalk.com/news/fulham-closing-in-on-alvaro-arbeloa-appointment-as-former-real-madrid-manager-emerges-as-leading-candidate

Fulham hold talks with ex-Real Madrid boss Álvaro Arbeloa -- sources
Fulham have held talks with Álvaro Arbeloa's representatives over appointing the former Real Madrid coach as manager, sources have confirmed to ESPN.

The Premier League club are looking for a replacement for Marco Silva, who is taking charge at Benfica after five years at Craven Cottage.

Arbeloa, 43, officially left Madrid this week after five months as first-team coach at the Bernabéu, having taken over from Xabi Alonso in January.

Sources told ESPN that although discussions have taken place between Fulham and Arbeloa, they are not yet at an advanced stage.

Arbeloa was highly rated as an academy coach at Madrid, impressing with reserve team Castilla before being promoted to replace Alonso when he was fired midway through last season.

The former Liverpool defender led Madrid to a second-placed finish in LaLiga -- eight points behind champions Barcelona -- but they were eliminated by Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarterfinals, and knocked out of the Copa del Rey by lower-tier Albacete.

"I arrived four months ago as a First Division RFEF [third tier] coach and I'm leaving as Real Madrid coach, having managed Champions League matches," Arbeloa said last month. "There aren't many coaches who can say that. For me, these four months have been a great experience, a learning process. Being here every day has been like doing a Masters."

Silva guided Fulham to an 11th place finish in 2025-26, and has taken over from José Mourinho -- who has joined Madrid -- at Benfica.

Information from Tom Hamilton was used in this report.



https://www.espn.co.uk/football/story/_/id/49052487/fulham-hold-talks-alvaro-arbeloa-head-coach-vacancy

Fulham in advanced talks to make former Real Madrid boss Alvaro Arbeloa their new manager... after walking away from move for Kieran McKenna
Alvaro Arbeloa is edging closer to becoming Marco Silva's replacement as Fulham boss.

The 43-year-old Spaniard has been in talks to take over the reins at the west London club following his departure from Real Madrid at the end of the season.

Daily Mail Sport understands that former Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna was Fulham's top target but would be subject to paying a fee for his services. Arbeloa, on the other hand, is a free agent, and would therefore arrive without a cost.

McKenna, who announced his departure from the club earlier this week, said he wants a break to spend time with his family. 

Arbeloa spent his entire coaching career at Madrid since retiring from playing in 2017, working his way up through the ranks of the youth teams to the interim position last season, following Xabi Alonso's sacking in January.

He led Madrid to a second-placed finish in LaLiga - eight points behind champions Barcelona - but they were eliminated by Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarterfinals, and knocked out of the Copa del Rey by lower-tier Albacete.

As a player, he had two spells at the Santiago Bernabeu and also played in the Premier League for both Liverpool and West Ham.

Silva's departure from Fulham was announced at the beginning of this month after five years in charge. He has opted to leave for Portuguese giants Benfica after they lost Jose Mourinho to Madrid.

Silva led the side to the 2021-22 Championship title in his first season in charge. Having twice previously gone straight back down following promotion, Fulham comfortably secured a top half finish in 2022-23 – a campaign which also saw them record their first victory over neighbours Chelsea in 17 years.

Silva led the Cottagers to three further mid-table finishes in the subsequent seasons, including breaking their Premier League points-record in 2025 (54), while also leading them to four quarter-finals across both domestic cup competitions, including a first ever appearance in the Carabao Cup semi-finals.

Fulham finished 11th in the Premier League last season.



https://www.dailymail.com/sport/football/article-15897921/fulham-alvaro-arbeloa-talks.html