USWNT Maintains Winning Run and Men’s Transfer Window Ignites

As national teams dominate the international calendar this week, football clubs are also busy with significant transfer activity. Here`s the latest on the summer transfer season and other key football news.

Upcoming Matches

• Wednesday, June 4: 🇪🇺 UNL: Germany vs. Portugal, 3 p.m. ➡️ FS1
• Thursday, June 5: 🇪🇺 UNL: Spain vs. France, 3 p.m. ➡️ FS1
• Thursday, June 5: 🌎 WCQ: Ecuador vs. Brazil, 7 p.m. ➡️ Fanatiz

The Forward Line

🇺🇸 Ally Sentnor, Lynn Biyendolo Shine for the USWNT

The U.S. Women`s National Team concluded a productive international window with a convincing 4-0 victory against Jamaica on Tuesday. This dominant performance highlighted the team`s offensive effectiveness.

Ally Sentnor, the current U.S. Soccer Young Female Player of the Year, netted her first international brace in the opening half, giving the Olympic gold medalists a 2-0 advantage. Substitute Lynn Biyendolo also scored twice after coming on in the second half, with her first goal just three minutes after entering the game. Biyendolo`s 13 goals off the bench since her 2016 debut are the most for any USWNT player, underscoring her significant contribution. Both Sentnor and Biyendolo demonstrated how Emma Hayes` strategy of integrating young attackers is effectively compensating for the absence of key players like Trinity Rodman, Mallory Swanson, and Sophia Wilson.

Coach Emma Hayes continued developing the player pool, giving left back Kerry Abello her first international cap. Amidst roster experimentation, Hayes gave a second consecutive start to less experienced players: goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce, midfielder Lily Yohannes, and forwards Catarina Macario and Alyssa Thompson. Their inclusion followed strong club performances and coincided with their improving form for the national team. This was particularly evident for Yohannes, Macario, and Thompson, who were involved in multiple goals during this international break, which also included a 3-0 win over China on Saturday.

Hayes is expected to continue assessing the player pool in the upcoming international window with two friendlies against Ireland (June 26, 29) and one against Canada (July 2). She stated that after these matches, she anticipates a clearer picture of the available talent pool as preparations for the 2027 Women`s World Cup progress.

Midfield Link Play

🔴⚫ Comings and Goings for AC Milan

The early phase of AC Milan`s offseason is already proving to be dynamic, marked by both potential arrivals and departures.

A major transfer this week involves Tijjani Reijnders` reported move from Milan to Manchester City for approximately $85 million. Reijnders, who scored 15 goals for Milan last season, was a key performer in an otherwise inconsistent campaign. His transfer sees him join a City side looking to rebound after a season without domestic or continental trophies. According to Francesco Porzio, the Dutch international would be a strong addition for City`s ambitious plans.

Francesco Porzio noted Reijnders` versatility and suitability for Guardiola`s system:
`The ability of the Dutch midfielder to contribute both offensively and defensively can become a perfect match for the style of Guardiola and Manchester City. Reijnders can play in multiple roles of the midfield, including as a deep-lying playmaker, box-to-box midfielder, or even in a more attacking role. With 2024 Ballon d`Or winner Rodri set to return after missing much of the 2024-25 season due to injury, Reijnders` ability to complement him could become crucial. His versatility make him an ideal midfield partner for the Spaniard, capable of playing as a deep-lying playmaker or box-to-box midfielder. Reijnders can share the creative and defensive load, allowing Rodri to anchor the midfield and forming a dynamic duo.`

Reijnders might not be the only significant departure from Milan this summer. Chelsea is reportedly interested in goalkeeper Mike Maignan as they prepare for their first Champions League season in three years. Conversely, Milan might acquire a high-profile player: outgoing Real Madrid midfielder Luka Modric. The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner will be a free agent after the Club World Cup, making him a valuable prospect for several clubs despite turning 40 in September.

Milan failed to qualify for any European competition next season, leading to Massimiliano Allegri`s return as manager. This situation could make the club an appealing destination for Modric. He might handle the demands of playing for an ambitious Milan side without the added burden of midweek European matches. Whether this transfer materializes remains to be seen.

Top Stories

• 🔵⚫ Simone Inzaghi departs as Inter manager after Champions League final loss, linked with Saudi club Al-Hilal. Cesc Fabregas among candidates to replace him.
• 🇸🇦 Cristiano Ronaldo in talks with Saudi officials regarding a contract extension at Al-Nassr.
• 🇺🇸 USWNT coach Emma Hayes discussed her first year, emphasizing the need to maximize every training session.
• ❌ Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes turned down a move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, though it was considered.
• 🤝 Rasmus Hojlund (Manchester United) reportedly a target for Inter. Nico Williams` future at Athletic Bilbao might be influenced by his bond with his brother Inaki. A look at top free agents this summer.
• 🏆 Analysis of players leading the Ballon d`Or race, including Mohamed Salah, Ousmane Dembele, and Raphinha.
• ⚽🏈 Super Bowl champion Peyton Manning joined the ownership group for the NWSL expansion team in Denver, set to start play in 2026.
• 🇦🇷 Newell`s Old Boys suspended six youth players and revoked scholarships after they posed for a photo with a rival player.

The Back Line

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