🇺🇸 Ally Sentnor, Lynn Biyendolo Shine for the USWNT
The U.S. Women`s National Team concluded a successful international period with a commanding 4-0 victory over Jamaica. This match further showcased the squad`s attacking depth and ability to capitalize on opportunities.
Ally Sentnor, recognized as the U.S. Soccer Young Female Player of the Year, netted her first two international goals in the first half, giving the Olympic gold medalists a 2-0 advantage. Lynn Biyendolo also added a brace after coming on as a substitute in the second half, scoring her first goal just three minutes after entering the game. Biyendolo now holds the record for most goals scored off the bench for the USWNT since her debut in October 2016, underscoring her continued importance to the team. Both Sentnor and Biyendolo`s performances highlight how Emma Hayes` younger attacking core is effectively compensating for the absence of key players like Trinity Rodman, Mallory Swanson, and Sophia Wilson.
Coach Hayes continued her strategy of expanding the player pool, granting left back Kerry Abello her first national team appearance. Amidst these experiments, Hayes gave second consecutive starts to several less experienced players: goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce, midfielder Lily Yohannes, and forwards Catarina Macario and Alyssa Thompson. These players earned their spots through strong club form and have built momentum with the national team. Yohannes, Macario, and Thompson were particularly involved in several goals during this international window, which also included a 3-0 win against China.
Hayes is expected to further evaluate the player pool in the upcoming international window, which includes two friendlies against Ireland and one against Canada. She stated that these matches will provide a deeper understanding of the available talent as the team prepares for the 2027 Women`s World Cup.
🔴⚫ AC Milan`s Summer Transfers Start Early
Even in the early phase of the offseason, AC Milan is already seeing significant transfer activity, with both players arriving and departing.
One of the week`s most notable transfers is Tijjani Reijnders` move from Milan to Manchester City. The Premier League club is reportedly paying around $85 million for the midfielder. Reijnders had a strong season for Milan, scoring 15 goals, and was a standout player in an inconsistent campaign for the Italian side. He now moves to a City team looking to bounce back after a season without domestic or European trophies. Analyst Francesco Porzio believes the Dutch international will be a valuable addition for the ambitious English club.
According to Porzio, Reijnders` ability to contribute effectively in both offense and defense makes him a potentially perfect fit for Pep Guardiola`s system at Manchester City. He is versatile, capable of playing various midfield roles, including deep-lying playmaker, box-to-box midfielder, or a more attacking position. With Rodri expected back from injury, Reijnders` capacity to complement him could be crucial. His versatility allows him to share creative and defensive responsibilities, enabling Rodri to anchor the midfield and form a dynamic pairing.
Reijnders may not be the only major departure from Milan this summer; Chelsea is reportedly targeting goalkeeper Mike Maignan ahead of their return to the UEFA Champions League. However, Milan could also bring in high-profile talent, potentially targeting outgoing Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric. The 2018 Ballon d`Or winner will be a free agent after the Club World Cup and represents a valuable, experienced option for several clubs despite turning 40 in September.
Milan`s failure to qualify for European competition next season and the hiring of new manager Massimiliano Allegri could make the club an appealing destination for Modric. He would likely be able to meet the demands of an ambitious Milan side without the added strain of midweek European matches. The final outcome of this potential deal remains to be seen.
🔗 Top Stories Around the World
- Inzaghi Departs Inter: Simone Inzaghi is out as Inter Milan manager following their Champions League final loss. He is linked with a move to Saudi club Al-Hilal. Cesc Fabregas of Como is reportedly a leading candidate to take over at Inter.
- Ronaldo Contract Talks: Cristiano Ronaldo is reportedly in discussions with senior officials in Saudi Arabia regarding a contract extension with Al-Nassr.
- Hayes Reflects on First Year: USWNT head coach Emma Hayes discussed her initial year with the team, emphasizing the need to maximize every training session.
- Fernandes Rejects Saudi Offer: Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes confirmed he considered a transfer to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal but ultimately decided against it.
- Transfer Market Buzz: Latest rumors include Rasmus Hojlund of Manchester United being a potential target for Inter. Nico Williams` future at Athletic Bilbao might be influenced by his brother Inaki. Plus, a look at top free agents this summer.
- Ballon d`Or Race: An overview of potential candidates leading the race for the sport`s top individual award, including names like Mohamed Salah, Ousmane Dembele, and Raphinha.
- Peyton Manning Invests in NWSL: Super Bowl champion Peyton Manning has joined the ownership group for the future NWSL expansion team in Denver, scheduled to begin play in 2026.
- Youth Players Suspended: Newell`s Old Boys has suspended six youth players and revoked their scholarships after they were photographed with a player from rival club Rosario Central.
