Monday Fulham Stuff - 13/07/26...

[WhiteJC]

World Cup 2026: Norway edged out by England

Norway's Sander Berge and Oscar Bobb were in action against England on Saturday night, but lost 2-1 after extra-time in the third World Cup Quarter-Final.

Berge played the full 120 minutes, while Bobb came off the bench on 68.

An eventful evening in Miami, Norway went in front when Andreas Schjelderup's cross evaded everyone and dropped inside the far post, though England ensured parity going into the break, through another Jude Bellingham strike.

The Scandinavians had the better of the second period, hitting the woodwork and seeing a goal ruled out through VAR, but England held on to take it to an additional 30 minutes.

And it was Bellingham again that made the difference in extra-time, with just three minutes played when he lashed home after Morgan Rogers had seen a shot parried.

It looked as though the Three Lions would make the game safe when a penalty was given against Bobb for a foul on Djed Spence, but VAR showed that the Fulham Academy graduate was the one to initiate contact.

A tough game that could have gone either way, both Berge and Bobb can be proud of their contributions in helping their nation reach a first ever World Cup Quarter-Final.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/july/12/world-cup-2026-norway-edged-out-by-england/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham now make formal move for Real Madrid player – Decision down to Mourinho


Franco Mastantuono

Fulham apparently have now made their move for Franco Mastantuono. Fresh reports from Argentina claim the Premier League side have formally requested the Real Madrid youngster on loan.

Interest from Álvaro Arbeloa's side has been building throughout the week. The new Fulham manager is eager to reunite with players he worked with during his spell in charge at Real Madrid.

Previous reports have already named Mastantuono among his priority targets. However, El Intransigente now claims the London club have taken the next step by submitting a loan request.

Pre-season expected to decide transfer
According to the Argentine outlet, Fulham have officially asked Real Madrid to let the 18-year-old spend next season at Craven Cottage.

Mastantuono is due to report for Real Madrid's pre-season on July 13. The first weeks under new manager José Mourinho are expected to determine whether he remains part of the first-team plans. Otherwise, he may be allowed to leave on loan.

We covered reports on Thursday explaining that Fulham may face an uphill battle. Spanish journalist José Miguel Villarroya stated that Real Madrid would ideally prefer Mastantuono to join a club competing in European football if he is sent out on loan.

That leaves Arbeloa relying on his close relationship with both the player and his former club as Fulham try to strengthen their position.

Promise deserves more minutes
Mastantuono made 35 appearances in his first season at Real Madrid. He scored three goals and registered one assist. Although he struggled for consistent minutes after an encouraging start, he showed promise.

A temporary move has increasingly been presented as the best route for the Argentine to continue his development. And Fulham are making it clear they want to be the club offering that opportunity.

Whether Real Madrid agree could now depend on what Mourinho sees once pre-season gets underway.



https://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-now-make-formal-move-for-real-madrid-player-decision-down-to-mourinho/

[WhiteJC]

Franco Mastantuono to Fulham: Real Madrid youngster's Premier League move hinges on 'one condition'
Fulham have reportedly submitted a formal loan request to secure Real Madrid midfielder Franco Mastantuono for the upcoming campaign.

The West London club are eager to wrap up a deal swiftly as manager Alvaro Arbeloa looks to strengthen his squad ahead of the new Premier League season.

The newly appointed boss is keen to reunite with the talented 18-year-old playmaker after previously working with him in the Spanish capital.

El Intransigente - via Sports Witness - now claims that Los Blancos are expected to evaluate the player during the initial weeks of pre-season training under Jose Mourinho before making a final call.

Pre-season to reportedly decide Mastantuono's Madrid future
The legendary Portuguese coach will assess whether the Argentine wonderkid features in his immediate first-team plans or if a temporary departure would benefit his development.

Reports indicate that the Spanish giants would ideally favour sending the teenager to a side competing in prestigious continental competitions.

Mastantuono made 35 appearances during his debut season in Spain, but struggled to command regular starting roles despite demonstrating immense long-term potential.

Arbeloa is now believed to be relying heavily on his excellent personal relationships with both the player and his former employers to give the Craven Cottage outfit a decisive advantage.

Fulham 'promise' game time to Madrid teenager

Despite Los Blancos' rumoured keenness for the youngster to play in a continental club competition, Fulham are reportedly making it clear they want to give Mastantuono the platform to develop with regular game time in the Premier League.

The midfielder's development was evident in his 35 outings last season but needs further experience to continue his progress.

The Cottagers believe that a temporary move to England is the best route for his development, though Fulham may face competition from other clubs.

Ultimately, the decision rests with Mourinho, who will assess Mastantuono's readiness for a senior Madrid role from the start of the current week.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/transfer-talk/news/arbeloas-mastantuono-reunion-hinges-on-one-condition_601104.html