Manchester City have announced a thrilling travelling squad for their 2026 Asia Tour – a blend of household stars and rising youngsters poised to dazzle fans across a string of high-profile pre-season fixtures throughout the region
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un greeted his tearful national footballers after their historic title win, state media reported. The gathering-alive with tears, rapturous cheers, tight embraces and solemn vows of loyalty-was a rare, triumphant sporting moment that briefly turned the athletes into national heroes
South Korea’s World Cup exit has ignited a wave of public fury, unleashing blistering accusations that cosy elite “cartels” and deep-seated favouritism now steer the nation’s football. Critics charge that these closed networks prioritise connections over talent and slip out of accountability
No Asian team made a deep run at this World Cup – a disappointing outcome that has reignited urgent questions about talent pipelines, the health of domestic leagues and the structural barriers keeping the region from closing the gap with the sport’s global powerhouses
Qatar has rebuffed the Asian football chief’s reply to its letter backing FIFA president Gianni Infantino, sources say – a showdown that exposes widening rifts over governance and regional influence
Japan swept aside China PR in emphatic fashion to lift a third title, capping a dominant campaign. Clinical finishing and a rock‑solid, disciplined defence showcased Japan’s rising regional supremacy
Arkadag’s footballers have electrified fans with an uncanny unbeaten run and a string of record-smashing displays. But is this tiny nation’s side genuinely the best in the world, or is the roar of hype drowning out the facts? The Economist investigates
Al-Hilal, dubbed “Asia’s first super club,” is setting new standards in Saudi football with major investments and star signings. Their success could signal a wave of growth and ambition for the kingdom’s football future.
Sources reveal that Arsenal’s promising midfielder Mosquera is set to join the club’s upcoming Asia tour. The move aims to boost squad depth ahead of the new season, with official confirmation expected soon.