The Daily · Monday, 13 July 2026
France and Spain Brace for Rematch, Adams Death Casts Shadow Over World Cup
With the World Cup semi-finals a day away, the anticipation around Tuesday's France versus Spain tie dominated the conversation on Monday. Warren Zaïre-Emery spoke of a squad galvanised by the memory of Spain's Euro 2024 victory over them, and Didier Deschamps is weighing whether to restore Aurélien Tchouaméni to the lineup. It is a repeat fixture at the highest possible stakes, and the motivation on the French side, at least, is not difficult to find.
But the day was darkened by the news that Jayden Adams, a member of South Africa's World Cup squad, was found dead at a property in Cape Town. Police have opened an investigation. His death during the tournament itself makes it one of the most sobering moments of this World Cup.
Away from the tournament, English football's managerial landscape shifted considerably. Xabi Alonso was unveiled at Stamford Bridge as Chelsea's new manager, while Andoni Iraola was formally introduced as Liverpool's head coach after his tenure at Bournemouth. Manchester United, meanwhile, confirmed the £64 million signing of Andrey Santos from Chelsea — though their pursuit of Ederson stalled over a medical concern, leaving that particular window open but unresolved.
The record
South Africa World Cup Player Jayden Adams Found Dead in Cape Town
Police are investigating the death of South Africa World Cup footballer Jayden Adams, whose body was discovered at a property in Cape Town. Authorities confirmed the investigation on Monday following the weekend discovery. Adams was part of South Africa's World Cup squad, making his death a significant loss during the tournament itself.
Xabi Alonso Unveiled as Chelsea's New Manager at Stamford Bridge
Xabi Alonso has been officially unveiled as Chelsea's new manager, receiving the full Stamford Bridge treatment in the Drake Suite. The former Leverkusen manager expressed optimism about his chances of thriving at a club with a well-documented history of managerial turnover.
Andoni Iraola Unveiled as Liverpool's New Head Coach
Andoni Iraola has been officially unveiled as Liverpool's new head coach, with the 44-year-old Basque coach pledging to prove himself at Anfield. Iraola arrives after three years at Bournemouth, where he guided the club to European qualification for the first time in their history.
Manchester United Sign Andrey Santos from Chelsea for $64M
Manchester United have officially announced the signing of midfielder Andrey Santos from Chelsea for $64 million. The deal is confirmed by the club, bringing the Brazilian midfielder to Old Trafford. At $64 million, Santos is a significant investment by Manchester United and one of the larger midfield signings in recent transfer windows.
Southampton Manager Eckert Faces Uncertain Future as FA Spygate Investigation Continues
Tonda Eckert's position as Southampton manager remains uncertain while the FA investigates last season's spygate scandal. The EFL expelled Southampton from the Championship playoff final against Hull after finding a club intern had spied on a Middlesbrough training session ahead of the semi-final first leg. The FA could follow a Fifa precedent with a 12-month suspension.
Norway Return Home to Heroes' Welcome After World Cup Campaign
Erling Haaland and his Norway teammates were welcomed back by thousands of fans following their World Cup campaign in North America. The reception reflects the scale of what Norway achieved at the tournament.
Manchester United's Move for Ederson Stalls Over Medical Concern
Manchester United's pursuit of Ederson has hit a significant obstacle, with the deal not proceeding following a breakdown over a medical issue. The club has not ruled out returning to the move at a lower price, leaving the situation unresolved for now.