Overview
- Real Sociedad installed New Jersey–born Pellegrino Matarazzo as head coach and he led his first training session, marking a rare American presence on a LaLiga touchline.
- Barcelona and Espanyol staged sold-out open trainings ahead of the January 3 derby, with Ronald Araújo, Pedri and Gavi present in varying capacities as the crowd engagement centerpiece.
- Flamengo confirmed a new contract for head coach Filipe Luís through December 2027 after a season highlighted by league and Copa Libertadores titles.
- Peru’s window accelerated as FC Cajamarca officially signed Pablo Lavandeira following his Alianza Lima exit, while media in Lima reported Alianza confirmed 10 departures and Argentine striker Federico Girotti arrived, passed medicals and is set to sign a three-year deal for 50% of his rights.
- FIFA president Gianni Infantino said the 2030 World Cup drew 150 million ticket requests in 15 days, far exceeding the available inventory.