Hot football news midday 31/7: India may withdraw from FIFA ASEAN Cup?

India could skip the 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup for a friendly with Brazil, Indonesia's coach keeps the lineup under wraps against Timor Leste, Ronaldo reportedly about to wed Georgina, and a series of significant moves in the European transfer market.

Could India miss the 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup?

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) confirmed that the national team will play a friendly against Brazil on October 3, 2026, in Kolkata, exactly when the 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup concludes. This raises doubts about India's participation in the FIFA-organized tournament, although AIFF and FIFA have not yet made an official confirmation.

If this scenario happens, India will be the second team to withdraw after China. AIFF considers the match against Brazil, a five-time World Cup winner currently ranked 5th in the FIFA standings, a historic milestone for Indian football. According to the draw, India is in Group A with Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, while Vietnam is in Group B with Thailand, the Philippines, and Pakistan.

Indonesia's coach "hides his cards" before Timor Leste

Ahead of the clash with Timor Leste in the second matchday of Group A at the 2026 AFF Cup, Coach John Herdman attracted attention by refusing to disclose the starting lineup of the Indonesian national team,although he admitted there are many personnel choices. The English tactician said he wants to keep the excitement for fans while making it hard for the opponent to predict the match approach.

In addition, he also warned his players not to be complacent, emphasizing that Timor Leste is improving game by game despite losing all their first two matches. After a 5-1 win over Cambodia in the opener, Indonesia is rated higher and aims to secure another 3 points to maintain the race for the top of Group A with Vietnam and Singapore.

Ronaldo about to hold a wedding?

Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez sparked rumors of an impending marriage when they both wore large diamond rings during a vacation in Mallorca, Spain. Some sources suggest the wedding could take place over the weekend at Quinta da Regaleira in Portugal, but this information has not been confirmed as the venue remains open to visitors and representatives of both sides remain silent. Ronaldo proposed to Georgina in August 2025 after nearly 10 years together.

Previously, the Portuguese superstar had shared his desire to hold the wedding after the 2026 World Cup, affirming that Georgina is the person he loves and wants to spend his life with. Currently, fans are still waiting for an official announcement from the couple.

Manchester United star returns early after World Cup shock

Goalkeeper Senne Lammens impresses by proactively ending his vacation to return to training early with Manchester United, even though coach Michael Carrick allowed him extra time off after the 2026 World Cup. This decision is seen as an effort by the 24-year-old goalkeeper to quickly overcome the shock of making a mistake in the quarterfinal that caused Belgium to lose 1-2 to Spain.

Despite going through a difficult time, Lammens still enjoys the trust of MU's management after a successful first season at Old Trafford. Joining him in the early return is new signing Youri Tielemans. The early return to Carrington shows Lammens' determination to regain form and compete for the starting spot ahead of the new season.

Transfer news

The European transfer market continues to be lively with a series of notable developments. MU is reportedly shifting its focus to Ibrahim Maza, a Vietnamese-origin player at Bayer Leverkusen, after facing difficulties with other targets, although the German club is demanding up to 40 million Euros.

Meanwhile, MU is also closely tracking Francisco Conceicao, but Juventus will only enter negotiations if they receive around 50 million Euros. Real Madrid completed the signing of striker Carlos Espi from Levante to replace Gonzalo Garcia.

On the other hand, Man City is determined to keep Rodri amid interest from Real Madrid by setting a valuation of 75 million Euros. Arsenal is also nearing an agreement to sign Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle for a fee of around 80 million Pounds.