Hot football news afternoon 3/7: Ronaldo and MU simultaneously cause a stir

Thanh Hóa faces financial issues, Vietnam national team reveals a "new version" under coach Kim Sang-sik, Bruno Fernandes disappoints while Ronaldo continues to set records at World Cup 2026, and the European transfer market is buzzing with notable developments involving MU, Barcelona, Tottenham, and Man City.

Thanh Hóa faces a difficult problem

Despite securing survival in the V-League 2025/26, Thanh Hóa is still confronting numerous challenges ahead of the new season as it has not solved its financial puzzle nor found a long-term sponsor. Difficulties in resources hinder the team from strengthening its squad, while it has bid farewell to a series of key players and all foreign players after the past season.

According to the plan, Coach Mai Xuan Hop's team will regroup from July 4th to prepare for the V-League 2026/27, but must still rely on promoting young players and recalling loaned players. Financial stability and squad completion will be decisive factors for Thanh Hóa to aim for a more positive season.

Vietnam national team has a "new version"

The training camp in South Korea is not only a preparatory step for the ASEAN Championship 2026 but is also seen as an opportunity for Coach Kim Sang-sik to shape the "new version" of the Vietnam national team. After winning the ASEAN Championship 2024, the team is entering a renewal phase with the maturity of many young players and choices from naturalized players.

However, the biggest challenge remains building a cohesive and efficiently operating collective. Three friendly matches against Korean clubs will help the coaching staff test the squad, experiment with tactics, and perfect the core framework, thereby gradually unveiling the new look of the Vietnam national team ahead of the goal to defend the regional title.

Bruno Fernandes disappoints

Although Portugal came from behind to beat Croatia 2-1 to secure a spot in the round of 16 of the World Cup 2026, Bruno Fernandes became the center of attention due to a performance below expectations. The Manchester United midfielder was substituted by Coach Roberto Martinez in the 63rd minute with his team trailing. This decision initially caused much controversy but quickly proved effective as Cristiano Ronaldo equalized and Goncalo Ramos scored the winning goal.

Against Croatia, Bruno did not score, did not assist, did not create a key pass and only had 1 shot on target. With form not meeting expectations, the 31-year-old midfielder will face much pressure ahead of the clash against defending European champions Spain in the round of 16.

Ronaldo equals Messi's record

Cristiano Ronaldo continued to make his mark in Portugal's 2-1 victory over Croatia in the round of 32 of the World Cup 2026 by successfully converting a penalty to equalize. The goal not only sparked a comeback for A Selecao but also helped the 41-year-old superstar increase his total number of goals from the penalty spot in World Cup tournaments to 4, equaling Lionel Messi's record.

After Ronaldo's equalizer, Goncalo Ramos scored a decisive goal in injury time, sending Portugal to the round of 16 to face Spain. At 41 years old, Ronaldo continues to prove his composure in decisive moments and extend the historic rivalry with Messi.

European transfer hot spots

Barcelona is reportedly looking to loan Marcus Rashford, but Manchester United only accepts a permanent sale of the English striker. Meanwhile, the Red Devils have begun negotiations with West Ham regarding Crysencio Summerville to strengthen their attack.

In another development, Tottenham has been unexpectedly offered the chance to sign Rafael Leao for around 60 million Euros, while Manchester City has joined the race with Arsenal for Leicester City's young talent Jeremy Monga. Notably, Virgil van Dijk also appeared in transfer rumors as AC Milan showed interest. Coach Ruben Amorim is reportedly keen to bring the Liverpool captain in to reinforce the defense for the new season.

Notable football news highlights

Vietnamese football is about to get another professional club as Thai Nguyen proceeds to establish a team to compete in the First Division 2026/27, simultaneously aiming for promotion to the V-League within a few years. At the same time, the Vietnam national team has traveled to South Korea for a training camp, preparing for the campaign to defend the ASEAN Championship 2026 title.

In the World Cup arena, Cristiano Ronaldo attracted attention as a video of him allegedly saying "Bismillah" before the penalty against Croatia went viral, alongside the record for the oldest player to score in the tournament. The England team also decided to keep their base location a secret before the match against Mexico to avoid harassment from the host country's fans.

Manchester United accelerates the pursuit of Ismaila Sarr but will face fierce competition and a transfer fee of no less than 45 million Pounds. Luka Modric just played the final 30 minutes of the match against Portugal, a positive sign that the Real Madrid midfielder is gradually recovering fully from injury and promises to be ready to start in the knockout stage.