WELCOME
James Andrew
X @JamesAndrew_ E james.andrew@futurenet.com
Happy New Year and welcome to 2026! This year, all roads lead to New Jersey for July’s World Cup final – nothing is certain in life, but it looks likely to be the last global tournament for two of the best players ever, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Both have graced the game at the very highest level, but time catches up with us all – Ronaldo turns 41 this February, while Messi celebrates his 39th birthday during the World Cup itself. It’s likely to be their last hurrah, but don’t discount either of them lifting the trophy on July 19 – Portugal and Argentina will both be strong contenders in North America.