Manila Digger Overview

‘It must be a Frenchman!’ - Tchouameni names three shock picks for 2026 Ballon d’Or

Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni has revealed his top three candidates to win the 2026 Ballon d'Or. The France international has backed his compatriots, naming Kylian Mbappe, Ousmane Dembele, and Michael Olise as the deserving frontrunners for the prestigious award.

Tottenham star Tel makes history with record-equalling France display

Mathys Tel has sent a clear message to Roberto De Zerbi after a historic international break saw him equal France's all-time Under-21 goalscoring record. The Tottenham forward has struggled for rhythm at club level recently, but his sensational form for Les Bleuets suggests he is ready to ignite his Premier League campaign.

‘Don’t forget Deschamps!’ - Pires hits back at Zidane hype as France enter new era

Robert Pires has jumped to the defence of former France manager Didier Deschamps following Zinedine Zidane's impressive start in charge of Les Bleus. The former Arsenal winger insisted that Deschamps' historic achievements must not be forgotten amid early praise for his successor.

Way-too-early Euro 2028 Power Rankings

The tournament might not kick-off for the best part of two years, but the extended international break offered some early clues as to how the challengers are shaping up

'Quality player' - Zidane hails surprise Chelsea star after France beat Belgium

France manager Zinedine Zidane has heaped praise on Chelsea midfielder Romeo Lavia following his standout performance during Belgium's Nations League encounter with Les Bleus. Despite France emerging as 4-1 victors in Paris, the Real Madrid icon was quick to acknowledge the technical excellence of the young Blues star.