EU lawmakers call for formal probe into Folarin Balogun World Cup scandal

Seventy-two European members of parliament have called on FIFA to open a formal investigation into the Folarin Balogun red-card controversy, according to the Daily Express. The incident, which occurred during the World Cup round of 16, has piled renewed pressure on FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Andrew Giuliani, the head of Donald Trump’s World Cup organizing committee, admitted that the Balogun scandal may have distracted the United States men’s national team before their 4-1 defeat to Belgium in the last 16. The media quotes Giuliani as saying the fallout could have cost the USMNT dearly. The media reports that Christian Pulisic suffered a microfracture and bone bruise in his leg during that loss to Belgium. US Soccer confirmed the injury. England winger Anthony Gordon told the Daily media that he took Mexico manager Javier Aguirre’s foul-mouthed rant as a “compliment.” The remark came after a heated exchange during a recent match. In the Premier League, Arsenal are preparing to test Newcastle’s resolve with a first official bid for midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, according to The Standard. Meanwhile, Manchester United continue to be linked with West Ham winger Crysencio Summerville as the Red Devils look to strengthen their midfield. Scottish football sees Barry Ferguson urge Rangers to bring back winger Vaclav Cerny if the Czech is available, while Celtic defender Cameron Carter-Vickers insists the club must revamp its squad this summer. On the international front, media reports that Jurgen Klopp is closing in on a sensational return to management with Germany following advanced talks. Finally, Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal told the Metro he hopes Julian Alvarez makes a summer move to Camp Nou, calling the forward a “top player” who would be a “great fit.”