June 2025 - Soccer Wiretap

Lionel Messi's participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup remains unconfirmed as the 38-year-old continues evaluating his international future. ESPN's analysis of his recent Club World Cup performance with Inter Miami offers insights into his evolving role and capabilities.

The Argentina captain has maintained a "wait and see" approach regarding the 2026 tournament. His performance against elite European competition in the Club World Cup provides a measuring stick for his international readiness.

Messi's game has adapted significantly at Inter Miami under coach Javier Mascherano. Statistical analysis shows his take-on attempts dropped to 4.5 per 90 minutes in the Club World Cup, compared to 7.99 in MLS regular season play.

The reduced dribbling reflects a more selective approach against higher-quality opponents. His attacking-third passes decreased to 13.0 per 90 minutes in the Club World Cup versus 24.3 in domestic competition.

"We can say he's the best player to have ever played this game, but his desire to win is surprising, because [against Porto], even in the final minutes, tired and injured, he continued to help the team get the result," Mascherano said. "We have to hold onto that and know that having him gives us an advantage, and we have to catch his spirit."

Coach Lionel Scaloni has successfully adapted Argentina's system to accommodate Messi's changing abilities. The team's recent victories without Messi, including a 4-1 win over Brazil, demonstrate increased tactical flexibility.

Argentina's improved depth allows Messi to impact games without carrying the entire offensive burden. Julian Alvarez and Thiago Almada have emerged as key contributors in Messi's absence or reduced role.

The dynamic shift from "Messi and his fan club" to a more balanced approach increases the likelihood of his 2026 World Cup participation. This tactical evolution preserves Messi's energy while maintaining Argentina's competitive edge.

Chelsea have reached an agreement with Brighton & Hove Albion to sign Brazilian forward Joao Pedro for a fee exceeding £50 million ($68.5 million). The 23-year-old has agreed to personal terms on a contract until 2032, according to multiple reports.

Pedro chose Chelsea over Newcastle United despite interest from both clubs. The versatile forward is currently traveling from Brazil to the United States to complete his medical before joining Chelsea's squad at the Club World Cup.

The signing represents Chelsea's continued investment in attacking talent during the summer window. Pedro joins striker Liam Delap from Ipswich Town and Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens as new additions to the forward line.

Chelsea have also secured Dario Essugo, Estevao, Mamadou Sarr and Kendry Paez through pre-existing agreements. The club has departed ways with Jadon Sancho after his season-long loan spell.

Pedro's arrival comes after he missed Brighton's final two matches following a training ground altercation with teammate Jan Paul van Hecke. Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler addressed the incident, stating it was handled internally and considered the matter "closed."

This transfer continues Chelsea's recent pattern of recruiting from Brighton. The Blues have previously signed Marc Cucurella, Moises Caicedo and Robert Sanchez from the south-coast club in recent seasons.

Pedro has earned three caps for Brazil since his international debut in November 2023. The forward's versatility and ability to drop deep while creating chances for teammates made him an attractive target for Chelsea's attacking setup.

The Brazilian's signing adds further depth to Chelsea's already extensive attacking options as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Thomas Partey will leave Arsenal when his contract expires. Partey was in talks on an extension with Arsenal, but a deal could not be reached.

Partey remained an important part of Mikel Arteta’s side during 2024-25, accumulating 52 appearances in all competitions.

Martin Zubimendi will join Arsenal's midfield from Real Sociedad this summer. Arsenal are also in the process of finalising an agreement with Brentford to sign Christian Norgaard.

Partey joined Arsenal in October 2020 from Atletico Madrid on a $57.3 million deal.

Olivier Giroud will join Lille after he and LAFC agreed to terminate his contract. Giroud had another six months remaining on his contract, but wanted to return to France.

Giroud's last game for LAFC will be on Sunday against Vancouver and he will arrive in France next week to sign his contract.

"I want to thank all of the fans, my teammates and the staff at LAFC for making this an enjoyable stop in my career," Giroud said in LAFC's statement. "I am happy to have played a part in the success of LAFC.

"From winning a trophy last season to participating in the Club World Cup, this has been a great experience in L.A. for me and my family."

Leicester City have parted ways with Ruud van Nistelrooy following their relegation from the Premier League. Leicester won just six matches last season and replaced Steve Cooper with Van Nistelrooy in November. 

"I would like to personally thank the Leicester City players, coaches, academy and all the staff I have worked with for their professionalism and dedication during my time at the club and to thank the fans for their support, and take this opportunity to wish the club well for the future," Van Nistelrooy said in a statement.

Myles Lewis-Skelly has signed a new long-term contract has signed a new contract with Arsenal. Lewis-Skelly is represented by his mother Marcia Lewis, who negotiated the deal with Arsenal that makes him one of the highest paid teenagers in the world.

“I’m so proud and happy,” said Lewis-Skelly after his new deal was announced. “I know those words are simple, but I think they sum up how I feel signing for this club. I’m a fan and it’s like a dream come true.

“I’ve embodied the values of Hale End and come through. I’ve still got a lot of years ahead of me, so if I can keep staying humble and being a good person, that’s the most important thing to me.

“I know I’ve taken a lot of experience from the games about the positive moments, the mistakes that I’ve made. I’m definitely more ready now for the next season. I just want to keep learning and keep improving.

“I want a legacy. I want to win everything there is to win in the game. I want to win trophies on the biggest stages whilst being a person that’s always learning and stays grounded, which is so important.”

Kylian Mbappe has accused Paris Saint-Germain of moral harassment in a legal filing. Mbappe is also arguing PSG owe him $61 million in unpaid wages.

The prosecutor's office said Mbappé is "denouncing the 'lofting' he claimed to have been subjected to at Paris Saint-Germain."

Mbappe joined Real Madrid last summer on a free transfer from PSG.

Cristiano Ronaldo has signed a two-year extension to stay with Al Nassr. Ronaldo joined Al Nassr in 2022 after leaving Manchester United.

"A new chapter begins," Ronaldo posted on social media. "Same passion, same dream. Let's make history together."

Ronaldo has scored 93 goals in 105 appearances for them in all competitions.

Lionel Messi remains Major League Soccer's highest-paid player with $20.45 million in guaranteed compensation for the second straight year. The MLS Players Association released the salary data as of May 25, 2025.

Messi's reported compensation reflects only his playing salary and excludes additional revenue streams including his Adidas endorsement deal and Apple broadcast revenue-sharing agreement. According to Sportico, the Argentina star could earn up to $150 million over his two-and-a-half year contract signed in summer 2023.

Toronto FC forward Lorenzo Insigne ranked second with $15.44 million in guaranteed compensation. Messi's Inter Miami teammate Sergio Busquets earned $8.5 million, placing third on the list.

Atlanta United forward Miguel Almiron ($7.87 million) and San Diego FC forward Hirving Lozano ($7.63 million) rounded out the top five highest-paid players. Insigne previously held the league's top salary position before Messi's arrival two years ago.

Inter Miami's total guaranteed compensation reached $46.84 million, exceeding their previous league record by $5 million. The figure represents more than double the spending of all but two other MLS teams.

Toronto FC ranked second in team spending at $34.15 million, followed by Atlanta United at $27.63 million. CF Montreal spent the least at $11.99 million, with Philadelphia Union ($13.37 million) ranking second-lowest.

The average guaranteed compensation across MLS increased 9.22% to $649,199 from $594,390 in spring 2024. The median salary rose 10.1% to $339,876 from $308,750 the previous year.

A total of 131 players now earn at least $1 million in guaranteed compensation, up from 115 players one year ago. The current Collective Bargaining Agreement runs through the 2027 season.

1. Inter Miami - $46.84m
2. Toronto FC - $34.15m
3. Atlanta United - $27.63m
4. FC Cincinnati - $23.18m
5. LA Galaxy - $22.87m
6. LAFC - $22.37m
7. Chicago Fire - $22.05m
8. Nashville SC - $21.75m
9. New York Red Bulls - $21.54m
10. San Diego FC - $20.03m
11. Portland Timbers - $19.57m
12. FC Dallas - $18.98m
13. St. Louis City - $18.11m
14. Seattle Sounders - $18.09m
15. Sporting Kansas City - $17.72m
16. New England Revolution - $17.19m
17. San Jose Earthquakes - $17.19m
18. Charlotte FC - $17.13m
19. Orlando City - $16.44m
20. Columbus Crew - $16.36m
21. Vancouver Whitecaps - $15.71m
22. Colorado Rapids - $15.48m
23. Austin FC - $15.33m
24. New York City FC - $14.96m
25. D.C. United - $14.62m
26. Minnesota United - $13.8m
27. Houston Dynamo - $13.41m
28. Real Salt Lake - $13.41m
29. Philadelphia Union - $13.37m
30. CF Montreal - $11.99m

Real Madrid winger Rodrygo returned from a 53-day absence to assist in Wednesday's Club World Cup opener against Al Hilal. The 24-year-old Brazilian's extended time away has sparked transfer speculation, with Arsenal closely monitoring his situation according to The Athletic.

Rodrygo last played in Real Madrid's Copa del Rey final loss to Barcelona on April 26, when he was substituted at halftime. Sources close to the club cited motivation concerns during training sessions, though the player's representatives have denied these claims.

Arsenal has shown concrete interest in acquiring Rodrygo's services this summer. The Premier League club believes they can offer him a sporting project where he would play his preferred left-wing position with tactical freedom.

Rodrygo's father and agent Eric Goes has rejected approaches from multiple Premier League clubs through intermediaries. Arsenal remains prepared to wait for clarity on whether Rodrygo wants to leave Madrid and if the Spanish club will consider selling.

"No, I'm going to have a conversation with all the players because they deserve it and we need it because we have to get to know each other. That he is a spectacular player is not for me to discover. We will need him," new coach Xabi Alonso said about speaking with Rodrygo.

Alonso's appointment has brought renewed optimism for Rodrygo's Madrid future. Sources at the club's training complex noted improved attitude and engagement since the former Bayer Leverkusen manager's arrival.

However, Rodrygo's absence from Sunday's 3-1 victory over Pachuca has reignited speculation. Younger players including Gonzalo Garcia and Victor Munoz received playing time ahead of the Brazilian international.

The situation remains fluid as Madrid navigate Rodrygo's contract status and Arsenal's continued interest in the versatile forward.