Leicester City have handed Russell Martin a three-year contract, leading a busy stretch of coaching changes across Europe. Watford appointed Alessio Dionisi on a two-year deal, Crystal Palace turned to Pierre Sage on a three-year contract after replacing Oliver Glasner, and Wolverhampton Wanderers chose Cesar Peixoto as head coach. In Italy, Maurizio Sarri was officially named Atalanta coach, while Ruben Amorim agreed a deal to take over at Milan. Napoli were expected to follow with Massimiliano Allegri’s appointment set to be confirmed this week.

The World Cup produced a series of early draws, with Spain surprisingly held 0-0 by debutants Cape Verde in Group H. Veteran goalkeeper Vozinha, now 40, was central to that result as Cape Verde opened with a clean sheet and a point. Belgium were also forced to settle for a draw after Egypt struck first through Emam Ashour before Romelu Lukaku made an immediate impact to help rescue a result in Group G. Japan and the Netherlands finished level as well, while Tunisia were expected to dismiss Sabri Lamouchi after a 5-1 loss to Sweden.

The biggest completed transfer saw Marc Cucurella leave Chelsea for Real Madrid in a permanent £51.7 million deal, made up of £47.4 million up front and £4.3 million in add-ons. Brighton added Portuguese defender Costinha from Olympiacos on a five-year contract, while Manchester City tied Josko Gvardiol to a new deal through 2031.

Away from the pitch, FIFA asked for an explanation after video assistant referee Shaun Evans made a hand gesture before Germany’s 7-1 win over Curacao. Evans said it was an involuntary, subconscious twitch and denied it was intended to send any message.