Hot football news noon 29/7: Singapore team arrives in Hanoi to prepare for clash with Vietnam

The Singapore national team has arrived in Hanoi before their encounter with Vietnam, Vĩ Hào's serious injury recurrence, and a range of significant updates concerning Italy's squad, the 2026 World Cup, and European transfer activity.

Singapore team arrives in Hanoi

Singapore's squad reached Hanoi on the afternoon of July 28 to prepare for their showdown with Vietnam in the third matchday of Group A at the 2026 AFF Cup, scheduled for the evening of July 31 at Mỹ Đình Stadium. Coach Gavin Lee's side has made an impressive start with two consecutive wins over Cambodia and Timor Leste, placing them temporarily at the top of Group A. The Lions have stood out with their physical style of play, aerial prowess, and the presence of naturalized players such as Kyoga Nakamura, Song Ui-young, and striker Ilhan Fandi.

Meanwhile, Vietnam enjoys the advantage of more rest after their 7-0 victory over Timor Leste, along with home-field advantage and a squad considered stronger. This match is seen as a decisive showdown in the race for the top spot in Group A.

Vĩ Hào's injury

Striker Bùi Vĩ Hào has suffered another major setback after tearing a ligament during a training session with Becamex TP.HCM while preparing for the 2026/27 season, and he will require surgery. This is the second time the forward, born in 2003, has suffered a ligament injury, shortly after returning from a fractured fibula that sidelined him for nearly eight months.

This new incident not only disrupts the development of the player who won the 2024 AFF Cup but also leaves a significant gap in Becamex TP.HCM's attack. In response, the club has brought back Hà Đức Chinh to add experience and provide additional options for the upcoming season.

Ranieri makes a return with Italy

Just over two months after leaving the door open for a return to the national team, Claudio Ranieri has officially accepted the role of Technical Director for the Italian national team. The 74-year-old tactician will replace Paolo Maldini, overseeing strategic planning and long-term development for the teams of Gli Azzurri.

Meanwhile, Roberto Mancini has been appointed as head coach, forming a duo expected to restore Italian football to its former glory after a period of decline. According to the plan, Ranieri and Mancini will be introduced together at a press conference on July 29, marking the start of a new leadership aimed at reviving the four-time World Cup champions.

Cucurella keeps his promise after the World Cup

Marc Cucurella has fulfilled a special promise after winning the 2026 World Cup with Spain by tattooing a portrait of coach Luis de la Fuente alongside the golden trophy on his arm. The 28-year-old defender shared a brief message: "Promise made, promise kept", drawing significant attention from fans. This gesture is seen as a tribute to the manager who led La Roja back to the pinnacle of world football.

The memorable milestone was further enhanced by Cucurella's recent transfer from Chelsea to Real Madrid for £51.8 million. Spain claimed the title after a 1-0 victory over Argentina in the final, conceding only one goal throughout the entire tournament.

Transfer news

Chelsea is closing in on the signing of Danny Welbeck as negotiations with Brighton have made a breakthrough, and the deal could be finalized within this week. Meanwhile, Real Madrid has reaffirmed its determination to keep Vinicius Junior amid interest from Arsenal.

On the flip side, Besiktas have pulled out of the race to sign Mohamed Salah after talks stalled. Arsenal has also revived the Bruno Guimaraes deal and reportedly reached a verbal agreement with Newcastle for around £75 million, though the two clubs still need to finalize the remaining terms.

At the same time, Kalvin Phillips is set to leave Manchester City on loan to return to Sheffield United, hoping to regain his form after an unsuccessful stint at the Etihad.