The Daily · Wednesday, 7 October 2026
Messi Bows Out as a Champion of the Game, If Not the Tournament
The day belonged, as so many have over the past two decades, to Lionel Messi. The 39-year-old confirmed his retirement from international football in the aftermath of Argentina's 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final — a result that denied him a second winners' medal on the grandest stage the game offers. He left everything on the pitch regardless: a penalty scored, two assists delivered, and a career with Argentina that redefined what was possible for a footballer representing his country. The defeat will sting, but the body of work is beyond argument.
Elsewhere, English football offered its own moments of note. Thomas Tuchel's England continued their quietly impressive Nations League campaign with a 3-0 win over the Czech Republic, a result that all but secured a quarter-final place. Harry Kane marked the occasion by equalling England's appearance record of 125 caps, with teammates quick to acknowledge the milestone. Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta committed his future to Arsenal until 2030, signing a four-year extension that signals the club's ambition to build something lasting after last season's title ended their 22-year wait.
The record
Messi Retires from International Football After World Cup Final Defeat
Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football following Argentina's 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. The 39-year-old's last appearance for Argentina saw him score a penalty and provide two assists. His international career ends without a second World Cup winners' medal. Messi's retirement closes one of international football's defining careers, ending his run with Argentina on the biggest stage the game offers.
Messi Retires from International Football After Scoring in 3-0 Win over Benin
Lionel Messi scored in his final international appearance as Argentina beat Benin 3-0 in a friendly in Buenos Aires on Tuesday. The match marked the end of Messi's career with the national side, a run that included a farewell speech and emotional scenes at the final whistle. Messi's international retirement closes one of football's defining eras — the greatest player of his generation will no longer represent Argentina.
Arteta Signs New Four-Year Arsenal Deal, Committed Until 2030
Mikel Arteta has signed a new four-year contract with Arsenal, securing his future at the club until 2030. The deal includes a significant pay rise following Arsenal's title win last season, which ended a 22-year wait to be crowned champions. Arteta said the achievement is 'only the beginning' of what he can deliver. Arteta now has a decade-long tenure secured at Arsenal, locking in the manager who ended their 22-year title drought at the precise moment the club appear to be building toward sustained success.
Tuchel Builds Momentum With England but World Cup Criticism Lingers
Thomas Tuchel has guided England to three consecutive clean-sheet wins, effectively securing a Nations League quarter-final place. The Wembley crowd celebrated warmly, with Harry Kane honoured as the club's greatest ever servant — yet Tuchel admits criticism from the World Cup period continues to sting.
Kane Equals England Appearance Record and Eyes 100 International Goals
Harry Kane has equalled England's appearance record of 125 caps and says he believes he could reach 100 international goals. Team-mates Morgan Rogers and Jude Bellingham praised the striker in response to the milestone.
Declan Rice Close to Signing New Long-Term Arsenal Contract
Declan Rice is close to agreeing a new long-term contract with Arsenal, according to sources. The deal would tie the England midfielder to the club beyond his current terms.
Pocognoli Takes Charge as Scotland Begin New Era After Clarke Exit
Steve Clarke has resigned as Scotland's national team head coach, bringing an end to his tenure. Sébastien Pocognoli has taken charge of his first Scotland camp, with the change in management generating significant interest among the national fanbase.
Guardiola Set to Attend Manchester City's First Home Game After Guilty Verdict
Pep Guardiola, who managed Manchester City for a decade before leaving in the summer, is set to attend the club's first home game since their guilty verdict. Guardiola has backed the club's owners following the ruling.