Chelsea are planning at least two major signings, with a possible third, but face a balancing act this summer. A further signing is expected to be Valentin Barco from partner club Strasbourg. The Argentina international has played primarily in central midfield over the past two seasons, but previously operated at left-back for Boca Juniors and Brighton.
Full preview of Paraguay for the 2026 World Cup, including squad breakdown, key players, and tactical analysis of their chances. Paraguay is officially returning to the global stage after a 16-year absence, ending a drought that spanned three consecutive tournaments. La Albirroja brings its trademark defensive grit to the competition, aiming to frustrate the world’s premier soccer nations. Currently ranked 40th internationally, the South American squad stabilized a rocky qualification cycle to secure its spot among the FIFA World Cup 2026 teams. Placed in a highly competitive group alongside the United States, Turkey, and Australia, expectations are firmly set on reaching the knockout rounds. This World Cup 2026 team preview covers everything you need to know about the squad heading into the tournament. We will break down their defensive structure, highlight star playmaker Julio Enciso, and analyze the depth that makes them a difficult opponent. Team profile CoachGustavo AlfaroCaptainGustavo GomezNicknameLos Guaraníes, La AlbirrojaFIFA ranking40thConfederationCONMEBOLGroupDBest World Cup resultQuarter-finals (2010)World Cup appearances9Last World Cup appearance2010 How Paraguay play The Paraguay formation typically shifts between a structured 4-4-2 and a 4-2-3-1, relying heavily on a disciplined low block when out of possession. Under their current leadership, the team prioritizes defensive solidity over expansive soccer. This deep, compact shape makes them incredibly difficult to break down. During qualifying, La Albirroja conceded an average of just 9.83 shots and 0.56 goals per match. They are comfortable sacrificing the ball, averaging merely 38% possession across their qualification campaign. However, this Paraguay tactical analysis highlights that their defensive commitment severely limits their attacking output. They generated the fourth-lowest expected goals (xG) in South American qualifying, managing just 10.83 shots per game. This lack of offensive production means they rarely dictate the pace of a match through sustained possession. In transition, the team relies on quick counter-attacks to threaten opponents. Playmakers like Julio Enciso provide the necessary creative spark to turn defensive stops into scoring opportunities. Ultimately, this tactical approach suggests their tournament success hinges on keeping matches tight and capitalizing on limited chances. Gustavo Alfaro: The coach behind Paraguay Gustavo Alfaro took charge in August 2024 and immediately transformed a chaotic squad into a highly organized unit. Known across South America as “The Professor,” the Paraguay coach is a tactical disciplinarian who prioritizes defensive structure. His extensive resume includes managing major Argentine clubs like Boca Juniors and San Lorenzo. On the international stage, he brings valuable tournament experience, having previously guided Ecuador through the 2022 global competition and recently managing Costa Rica. His pragmatic approach is perfectly suited for international knockout soccer, where avoiding mistakes often outweighs expansive attacking play. Alfaro is widely viewed as a savior by supporters after ending the nation’s long qualification drought. His pragmatic leadership and ability to orchestrate massive upsets against regional giants will be the defining factor in how far this team can advance this summer. Key player: Julio Enciso While the roster features several established professionals, Julio Enciso stands out among the Paraguay key players. The 22-year-old forward operates in a highly fluid role, typically starting on the left flank or centrally as a number 10. Currently playing for Strasbourg on loan from Brighton, Enciso serves as the primary creative engine for his national side. He has recorded four goals in 31 international appearances, including crucial match-winners during the qualification cycle. Julio Encima of Paraguay (Getty Images). His ability to roam into the half-spaces and attack defende
There is upheaval in Chelsea's goalkeeping department this summer, with multiple players looking to leave. It appears number one Robert Sanchez will remain and be supported, at the very least into pre-season, by highly rated Belgian goalkeeper Mike Penders, who spent last season on loan at partner club Strasbourg. "I am starting pre-season at Chelsea and will try to prove myself in training," Penders told Voetbalkrant, speaking from Belgium's World Cup camp.
Nicolas Gonzalez and Nicolas Tagliafico are causing concern for Argentina ahead of their 2026 FIFA World Cup opener. Argentina are just days away from beginning their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign, but concerns over the fitness of several players have overshadowed preparations for their opening match. Nicolas Tagliafico and Nicolas Gonzalez are at the center of those worries. “Nicolas Tagliafico is dealing with a physical issue, and it remains unclear whether he will be available next Tuesday, June 16, in Kansas City for the first Group J match,” prominent Argentine outlet Infobae reported on Thursday, in a story also cited by TyC Sports and ESPN. The 33-year-old left back suffered a knock to his calf during last Saturday’s friendly against Honduras, forcing him to leave the match at halftime. The issue persisted in the following days, preventing him from playing against Iceland on Tuesday. The slow pace of his recovery has raised concerns within the Argentina camp. The situation is further complicated by the fact that one of Tagliafico’s potential replacements is also dealing with fitness problems. Nicolas Gonzalez filled in at left back during the second half against Iceland and is now facing physical concerns of his own. Lionel Scaloni, Head Coach of Argentina. “Nico Gonzalez is also not fully fit and has become another question mark, considering his recent injury history,” Infobae added. The Atletico Madrid player missed the final stretch of the season in Spain with a muscle injury that also prevented him from training alongside his Argentina teammates during the first days of camp. Argentina’s options at left back For the past four years, Nicolas Tagliafico has been Argentina’s first-choice left back. He started the 2022 World Cup final against France and has remained a regular fixture in Lionel Scaloni’s squad ever since. With his availability for the match against Algeria now in doubt, the head coach must consider alternatives on the left side of defense. The leading option is Facundo Medina, who played there against Iceland. However, his natural position is center back, and using him as a fullback is viewed primarily as an emergency solution. Argentina have three other players in the squad capable of filling Tagliafico’s role. One is the aforementioned Nicolas Gonzalez, although his availability for next Tuesday is also uncertain due to fitness concerns. Another option is Valentin Barco, who originally played as a left back but was converted into a midfielder at RC Strasbourg, where his performances earned him a place in the national team. The third possibility is the most recent addition to Argentina’s World Cup roster: Marcos Senesi. The defender, who impressed for Bournemouth last season, received a late call-up from Scaloni to replace the injured Leonardo Balerdi and is expected to join Argentina training in the coming hours. Although he is primarily a center back, being left-footed also gives him the ability to play at left back, undoubtedly one of the reasons behind his selection.
Sage guided Lens to second place in Ligue 1 this seasonGlasner likely to join Milan after rejecting Feyenoord offerCrystal Palace are poised to appoint Pierre Sage as Oliver Glasner’s successor after holding productive talks with the Frenchman.Sage, who guided Lens to the Coupe de France and second place in Ligue 1 this season, is understood to have agreed terms on a two-year deal with the option of a 12-month extension. Compensation for the 47-year-old must be resolved but that is not thought to be an obstacle. Continue reading...
Stade de Reims’ Ewen Jaouen (20) is not expected to move to Chelsea this summer, according to reports in The Standard.Nevertheless, the France Under-21 international continues to attract interest, w...
