The Dugout

Senegal's Sacking of Pape Thiaw Exposes a Federation in Freefall

Senegal have sacked head coach Pape Thiaw days after blowing a 2-0 lead to crash out of the World Cup against Belgium, but the real story is a federation in crisis: an unresolved AFCON title scandal, a stripped trophy under appeal at CAS, and a senior player who had already revolted against the coaching staff.

Croatia's Slaven Bilic Return Signals Retreat Not Reinvention

Slaven Bilic is set to return as Croatia manager 14 years after his first spell ended, replacing Zlatko Dalic despite nearly two years out of work and a declining managerial record. The appointment raises questions about whether Croatia are rebuilding with ambition or simply retreating into nostalgia.

Klopp's Route From TV Studio to Germany Dugout Is Almost Complete

Jürgen Klopp has agreed key terms to become Germany head coach, weeks after his TV punditry criticism of Julian Nagelsmann's team selection forced a public apology. The deal still needs Red Bull's release and DFB board approval before it's finalised.

Portugal Bet Their Post-Ronaldo Future on a 71-Year-Old International Rookie

Portugal have handed 71-year-old club legend Jorge Jesus a four-year contract through the 2030 World Cup, ending Roberto Martinez's reign despite Jesus having zero senior international management experience. It's a high-risk bet on style and identity over proven tournament pragmatism.

Germany Must Buy Klopp Out of Red Bull's Boardroom, Not a Rival's Dugout

Jurgen Klopp's move to become Germany's next manager hinges not on his own terms with the DFB but on a corporate release negotiation with Red Bull, where he currently serves as Head of Global Soccer. Final talks between DFB chief Hans-Joachim Watzke and Red Bull's Oliver Mintzlaff are set for New York next week.

Newcastle's Summer Sell-Off Is Testing Eddie Howe's Patience With The Board

Darren Bent has speculated Eddie Howe could eventually walk away from Newcastle if the board doesn't match this summer's exodus of Anthony Gordon, Sandro Tonali, Kieran Trippier and reportedly Bruno Guimaraes with genuine reinforcements. It's pundit talk, not confirmed intent, but the underlying transfer strategy raises real questions.

Zlatko Dalic Leaves Croatia as a Champion, Not a Casualty

Zlatko Dalic has resigned after nine years as Croatia manager, becoming the 12th head coach to leave a national team job at this World Cup. Unlike most of the others, he departs as his country's most successful manager ever, not a scapegoat for failure.

Pochettino Was Always Leaving USA, Belgium Exit Just Gave Him The Excuse

Mauricio Pochettino's USA contract has expired after a 4-1 round-of-16 loss to Belgium, and despite a four-year offer through the 2028 LA Olympics, insiders expect him to leave for the Premier League or another international post. His record three World Cup wins as USMNT boss can't disguise a federation once again exposed as a stepping stone rather than a destination.

Liam Rosenior's Rapid Rebound at Paris FC Puts Chelsea's Managerial Chaos Under Scrutiny

Liam Rosenior has been named Paris FC manager on a two-year deal, five months after a goalless five-game losing streak ended his brief Chelsea tenure. His Strasbourg pedigree and Chelsea's chaotic managerial churn under BlueCo raise the question of whether he was set up to fail at Stamford Bridge.

Mexico's Quarter-Final Curse Survives Home Advantage as Aguirre Walks and Marquez Steps In

Javier Aguirre resigned as Mexico manager hours after their 3-2 last-16 loss to England, with Rafa Marquez instantly confirmed as successor in a pre-agreed handover. The result extends Mexico's 40-year wait for a World Cup quarter-final, even as co-hosts on home soil.

Oliver Glasner Walks Into Nottingham Forest's Chaos as Fifth Head Coach in a Year

Klopp's Germany U-Turn Raises a Question He Can't Answer Alone

Jürgen Klopp has confirmed he is in talks to become Germany's next head coach, calling himself 'more than recharged' after leaving Liverpool in 2024 citing burnout. A Red Bull contract and three straight World Cups without a last-16 appearance complicate the DFB's clear first choice.