Daily Recap: Sport — 7 October 2026

Sport is shaped by turning points today, from a defining international farewell to major shifts on benches, tours and rosters. The biggest developments center on endings and reset moves, as clubs, leagues and athletes respond to retirements, disputes, sanctions and new contracts....

Lionel Messi says goodbye to Argentina’s national team after a 3–0 friendly win over Benin in Buenos Aires. The final appearance carries the feel of a tribute night, with Messi wearing a special No. 10-themed shirt and addressing supporters on the pitch after the match in an emotional farewell.

Mikel Arteta commits his future to Arsenal by signing a new contract through 2030. The extension comes after Arsenal win their first Premier League title in 22 years, giving the club continuity under the manager who has led its rise back to the top of English football.

Jon Rahm is set to leave LIV Golf after rejecting terms for the circuit’s next phase. His lawyer tells a bankruptcy court hearing that Rahm will not take part in LIV 2.0, marking a significant setback for the tour as it tries to move forward under a new structure.

The Eagles trade Pro Bowl center Cam Jurgens to the Ravens for draft picks in a move that follows Lane Johnson’s retirement. The deal forces Philadelphia to rethink its offensive line after losing a key veteran, while Baltimore adds an established interior lineman to reshape its protection plans.

Southampton coach Tonda Eckert receives a six-week ban that is suspended through the end of the 2027-28 season, along with a £28,000 fine and formal reprimand over the club’s Spygate case. Because the ban is suspended, he remains in charge despite the FA punishment.

Odell Beckham Jr. joins the Vikings’ practice squad after his brief return to the Giants ends in release. He leaves New York without a catch in three games, and Minnesota now offers him a lower-risk route back as he tries to revive his place in the league.

The NFL rescinds celebration fines against Kyle Juszczyk and Jake Ferguson after clarifying its stance on drinking gestures. Juszczyk successfully argues that his sideline celebration referred to his "Juice" nickname, and the league now says imitating drinking in a celebration will not bring a penalty or fine.

Alex Cora again turns down the Phillies’ managerial job and plans to remain away from coaching for at least another year. His decision leaves Philadelphia still searching for its next manager and extends the pause in Cora’s dugout career rather than returning him to a high-profile opening.