Hot football news afternoon June 22: Rashford's chances of staying at Barcelona improve

Vietnam's national team begins a generational shift under head coach Kim Sang-sik, alongside the 2026 World Cup and the European transfer market intensifying with significant updates regarding Messi, Ronaldo, Saka, and Rashford.

Becamex TP.HCM retains its core squad

Despite being relegated to the First Division for the 2026/27 season, Becamex TP.HCM demonstrates its determination to return to the V-League by successfully holding onto key players such as Võ Hoàng Minh Khoa, Bùi Vĩ Hào, Nguyễn Trần Việt Cường, and Ngô Tùng Quốc. Keeping this quality core helps the "Land of Thủ" team maintain professional stability while reinforcing their promotion ambitions for the upcoming season.

Alongside an experienced squad that has competed in the V-League, Becamex TP.HCM is also finalizing preparations for the new season, expected to gather in early July and soon announce their head coach. This is seen as a positive sign for their rebuilding journey after the shock of relegation.

Nguyễn Filip speaks out about his absence from the Vietnam national team

Nguyễn Filip's absence from the squad gathering ahead of the ASEAN Championship 2026 has drawn significant attention. The CAHN goalkeeper stated that the decision not to join the national team was made after coordination between the club and the VFF, aimed at helping him and the team focus on securing a spot in the AFC Champions League Elite. Nguyễn Filip affirmed that he always considers representing the Vietnam national team an honor and will follow and support his teammates from afar.

As coach Kim Sang-sik pushes for squad rejuvenation and gives opportunities to naturalized and overseas Vietnamese players, the 1992-born goalkeeper remains regarded as a key figure for the national team in upcoming major campaigns.

Rangnick tips his hat to Messi

Ahead of the clash with Argentina at the 2026 World Cup, Coach Ralf Rangnick acknowledged that Lionel Messi's team has almost no obvious weakness to exploit. The German tactician assessed that Argentina possesses a well-rounded squad in both tactics and individual quality, calling Messi "the greatest player in history." Rangnick noted that Argentina not only controls the ball well but also transitions extremely quickly with dangerous vertical passes.

Nevertheless, Austria still hopes to spring an upset with their familiar high-intensity pressing style. The 65-year-old coach emphasized that his players will have to perform at over 100% capacity and may need their best showing since he took charge of the team to stop the reigning world champions.

England receives good news from Saka

England gets a major boost ahead of the match against Ghana as Bukayo Saka has returned to normal training with the squad after a period of individual sessions due to an Achilles tendon injury. Although coach Thomas Tuchel remains cautious and unwilling to risk the Arsenal star, the 24-year-old's recovery is progressing positively. Saka is unlikely to start in the second match, but could return to the starting lineup against Panama if he reaches peak fitness.

Saka's return is crucial for the "Three Lions" in their quest for the 2026 World Cup, as he is seen as one of the top game-changing talents alongside Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane. England currently leads Group L after a 4-2 victory over Croatia.

Rashford unexpectedly receives a "gift" from Raphinha

Marcus Rashford's future at Barcelona has suddenly brightened following news involving Raphinha. According to Brazilian media, the Brazilian star continues to be pursued by Saudi Pro League clubs with offers potentially reaching €170 million, despite denials from his representatives regarding personal difficulties. If Raphinha leaves, Barcelona would significantly ease their financial issues and gain resources to retain Rashford after his loan spell from Manchester United.

Expert Terry Gibson also believes that Barcelona still wants to keep the English striker. Given Rashford's consistent desire to stay at Camp Nou, a potential Raphinha sale could become the key factor determining the former Manchester United star's long-term future in Spain.

Vietnam national team undergoes renewal, Ronaldo sparks controversy

The Vietnam national team is entering a strong transition phase under coach Kim Sang-sik, with many young players given opportunities, aiming for the ASEAN Championship 2026 and long-term goals. Alongside the inclusion of naturalized players, the team is expected to move away from their traditional counter-attacking style toward a more modern possession-based, pressing approach.

At the 2026 World Cup, Francisco Conceicao spoke up to defend Cristiano Ronaldo against criticism following Portugal's draw. Meanwhile, Mikel Oyarzabal shone with 2 goals and 1 assist, helping Spain thrash Saudi Arabia. In the transfer market, Arsenal, Manchester United, Tottenham, and Newcastle are all actively pursuing new targets.