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SNN Sports is proud to announce the return of its highly anticipated Legends & Legacy Gala Dinner 2026

Football Legends Unite for Mental Health at SNN Sports Legends & Legacy Gala Dinner 2026 Glasgow, Scotland – SNN Sports is proud to announce the return of its highly anticipated Legends & Legacy Gala Dinner 2026, taking place on Friday 10 July 2026 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Glasgow. Bringing together football legends, supporters, business leaders, and members of the wider sporting community, the evening will celebrate the power of football while raising vital funds and awareness for Men Matter Scotland, a charity dedicated to supporting men’s mental health and suicide prevention across Scotland. The black-tie event promises an unforgettable night of football stories, inspiration, entertainment, and fundraising, featuring an impressive lineup of guests including former football stars Billy Davies, Bobby Petta, and Maurice Ross, alongside former Scottish and international players. Guests will also hear from Steven Sharp, whose powerful story of resilience, determination, and overcoming adversity has inspired countless people both within and beyond football. Additional guest speakers and football personalities will be announced in the coming weeks. The evening will be hosted by respected football figures Gordon Smith and Gerry McDade, who will guide guests through a programme designed to deliver honest conversation, memorable stories, and meaningful discussion around the challenges often faced behind the scenes in professional sport. Guests attending the gala will enjoy: Drinks reception on arrival Three-course dinner Exclusive guest interviews and Q&A sessions Live entertainment Charity auction featuring unique prizes and experiences Fundraising raffle Opportunities to network with football personalities, sponsors, and supporters While football remains at the heart of the event, the evening’s deeper purpose is to support the life-changing work carried out by Men Matter Scotland. Funds raised will contribute directly to mental health services, outreach programmes, and safe spaces that help men facing difficult circumstances. CEO Lee Anderson said: “The Legends & Legacy Gala Dinner is about much more than football. It’s about bringing people together, sharing real stories, and using the platform that football provides to make a genuine difference. Mental health affects families, friends, colleagues, and communities across Scotland, and Men Matter Scotland does incredible work supporting those who need help most. We’re honoured to welcome some fantastic names from the world of football, but what makes this evening special is the opportunity to raise awareness, raise vital funds, and create conversations that can have a lasting impact. We look forward to welcoming guests from across the football and business communities for what promises to be a memorable and meaningful night.” With attendance expected from across Scotland’s football and business communities, organisers are encouraging supporters to secure their places early. Ticket Information Individual Ticket: £85 Table of 10: £800 (saving £50) Event Details SNN Sports Legends & Legacy Gala Dinner 2026 Date: Friday 10 July 2026 Time: 6:00 PM – Midnight Venue: Crowne Plaza Hotel, Glasgow, G3 8QT Sponsorship opportunities remain available for businesses wishing to support the event and align their brand with one of Scotland’s most meaningful football fundraising evenings. For sponsorship enquiries: asha@snnsports.co.uk Tickets are available now and early booking is strongly recommended due to limited availability. Ticket Link: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/snnsports/2199675 About SNN Sports SNN Sports is one of Scotland’s fastest-growing independent sports media platforms, delivering interviews, breaking news, features, podcasts, and exclusive content to millions of football fans across Scotland and beyond. Through events such as the Legends & Legacy Gala Dinner, SNN Sports continues to use the power of sport to support communities and causes that make a real difference.

June 8, 2026

All SPFL Players at the FIFA World Cup 2026

Twenty-one players who played in Scotland last season will be at this summer’s World Cup, representing thirteen different nations. Scotland unsurprisingly have the lion’s share of SPFL players with eight, as the Tartan Army are set to travel in their thousands to witness their country play at the World Cup for the first time since 1998. GROUP A: Mexico, South Africa, South Korea, Czechia Only one Scottish league player makes the plane for a Group A nation and that is Hyun-jun Yang of Celtic. The 24-year-old, who has been capped by South Korea eight times already and will be joined by former club teammate Hyeon-gyu Oh, was named as the champion’s Young Player of the Year after notching 10 goals and 3 assists. Celtic loanee Julian Araujo made Mexico’s provisional squad, but misses out with an injury. GROUP B: Canada, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Qatar, Switzerland Celtic’s Alistair Johnston and Rangers on-loan defender Derek Cornelius make Jesse Marsch’s Canadian squad for the tournament. Johnston signed for Celtic on the back of an impressive showing in Qatar in 2022, whilst Cornelius did not feature for Rangers since November following an injury and reported fallout with Danny Rohl. Former Ibrox pair Nikola Katic and Cedric Itten will travel over with Bosnia & Herzegovina and Switzerland respectively, and Johnston and Cornelius will be joined by Liam Millar, who had a loan spell with Kilmarnock before covid. GROUP C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland Only Scotland have SPFL representation from this group, with Craig Gordon, Liam Kelly, Grant Hanley, Kieran Tierney, Anthony Ralston, John Souttar, Findlay Curtis, and Lawrence Shankland making Steve Clarke’s final cut. Ex-Celtic hero Odsonne Edouard declined the opportunity to play for Haiti after a remarkable return in his debut season at RC Lens in Ligue 1, whilst Lille summer signing from Rangers Hamza Igamane had his season ended prematurely at AFCON with Morocco. GROUP D: USA, Paraguay, Australia, Turkiye America’s Austin Trusty of Celtic and Australia’s Cammy Devlin of Hearts will face off against each other potentially for the first time since the dramatic climax to the Premiership campaign which seen Trusty’s side snatch the title from Hearts’ grasp. Trusty will be joined by former Celtic and Rangers loanees Timothy Weah and Malik Tillman, whilst Devlin will be accompanied by a plethora of former SPFL talents, such as Tete Yengi, Jackson Irvine, Harry Souttar (brother of Scotland’s John), Aziz Behich, and also Scottish born defender Cameron Burgess. Hibs’ forward Martin Boyle was a late removal from the final squad. GROUP E: Germany, Curacao, Ivory Coast, Ecuador There are no active players from the SPFL in this group, but Curacao are managed by ex-Rangers gaffer Dick Advocaat, and his squad includes Juninho Bacuna, who had a quiet six months in Govan during the 21/22 campaign. Ivory Coast will have Amad Diallo at their disposal, who was on loan at Rangers in 2022 when they made the Europa League final. GROUP F: Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Tunisia Celtic teammates Benjamin Nygren and Sebastian Tounekti will face off against each other when Sweden go head to head with Tunisia in the opening round of fixtures, before both come up against a Japan side with fellow club teammate Daizen Maeda amongst its stars. Three former Parkhead centre backs also feature in this group, with Gustaf Lagerbielke and Carl Starfelt potentially pairing beside each other for Sweden, and the Netherlands will have Virgil Van Dijk at the back captaining their side. GROUP G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand Rangers midfielder Nico Raskin will come up against Motherwell starlet Elijah Just will face each other when Belgium take on New Zealand. Raskin makes the Belgian squad for his first international tournament after making his debut in March last year, as does Just despite amassing over 40 caps for New Zealand already. GROUP H: Spain, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay No SPFL players make will appear in Group H. Marcelo Saracchi of Celtic did not make Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay squad, though he did captain them on his return from the international wilderness in a 1-0 friendly win over Dominican Republic in October last year. GROUP I: France, Senegal, Iraq, Norway Rangers’ Thelo Aasgaard will be in Norway’s camp for the summer with former Celtic centre-back Kristoffer Ajer. Dundee United’s Dario Naamo had been named in Iraq’s provisional squad after switching his allegiance from Finland, but was cut from the final selection. GROUP J: Argentina, Jordan, Algeria, Austria There is no link to the Scottish game in this group besides former St. Mirren trialist and Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez who fled the country whilst on Paisley because it was too cold. Mahrez’s teammate Fares Ghedjemis is also in squad, after a move to Celtic failed to materialise in January. GROUP K: Portugal, DR Congo, Colombia, Uzbekistan Kilmarnock’s Aaron Tshibola is in line to play against Cristiano Ronaldo as part of the DR Congo setup. The 31-year-old resigned for Killie in February for a third time, and played 14 times as Neil McCann’s men secured their Premiership status for another season. GROUP L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama Another group with no direct links to the SPFL, although the England squad does include three players who were once upon a time eligible for the Scotland squad – Anthony Gordon, Tino Livramento and of course Elliot Anderson who was named in one of Steve Clarke’s squads in 2023, before pulling out due to injury.

June 2, 2026

Men’s Mental Health Awareness Week: Paying tribute to Paul McGrillen and Chris Mitchell

Mental health is something every man struggles with on a daily basis but some are too afraid to speak up. Male suicides are three times higher than female suicides and approximately 75% of all suicides in the United Kingdom are from men. The highest risk age in England for male suicide is between 50-54, at a 26.8 per 100,000. According to a Scottish government report, one in three people are impacted by mental health in any one year in Scotland. Two well known Scottish footballers Chris Mitchell and Paul McGrillen sadly took their own lives. McGrillen played in Scotland for 19 years and lifted the Scottish Cup in 1991 with Motherwell. On 29 of July 2009, the football star was found in his home, as a result of hanging and never left a note. Mitchell played with Falkirk, Ayr United, Bradford City, Queen of the South and Clyde. Due to complications from surgery for spinal injury meant that he went from playing professionally for Queen of the South to part-time for Clyde whilst working a job in a factory. After completely leaving the sport, he admitted to his family that he was depressed and started seeing a psychologist and was placed on medication but stopped taking them due to the side effects. On 7 May 2016, Mitchell phoned his partner saying he was planning on killing himself and the call was still live whilst he was hit by a train. In 2018, Paul’s brother Alan, spoke about what football clubs can do in order to combat mental illness: “Mental health is at the forefront of everybody’s minds. We’ve had many players and ex-players speak about the battle they’ve had with depression. “It’s also in the stands. The people who are working day to day and who are providing their kids with a strip and a season ticket to go and support their team. “A year after Paul died, Gary Speed committed suicide. I had wrote away to the SFA asking if we could get a Show Racism the Red Card type campaign throughout the full of Scottish football to start with. “If you get that campaign and awareness through every club, not just to support the players on the park, but to support the people who pay their hard earned cash to walk into a stadium. “The SFA and the rest of Scottish football really has to take this on board and try and run with it. This issue won’t go away. We won’t save everybody, but if we can reach out to one or two people, then that campaign does it job. “These clubs are worth millions of pounds. They need to have a bit more due care and attention and promote this. I think it will actually save lives.” If you’re struggling with your mental health, get in contact with Men Matter Scotland as their aim is to improve men’s mental health and wellbeing through peer to peer support to help prevent suicide. Join us on the 10th July for a special evening hosted by SNN Sports, bringing people together for a night of football, honest conversation, and support for Men Matter Scotland. Tickets and tables now available – https://www.tickettailor.com/events/snnsports/2199675 How to get in touch: 01419447900 contact@menmatterscotland.org Office hours Mon-Fri 10:30-21:00 Service Area Glasgow and surrounding area

May 18, 2026

Meet Dedicated Dumbarton Youngster Who Travels 500 Miles Each Week to Play

500 miles. No, not The Proclaimers most well known anthem, but instead the distance Dumbarton U14s midfielder Leah Dunn travels each week for training and matches. Dunn, from Campbeltown in Argyll and Bute, plays for both Campbeltown Pupils Boys at home and Dumbarton Girls U14s, with 130 miles separating both towns. And her parents were more than happy to look into avenues far from home to help progress his daughters football career. Her father Kris said: “She’s [Leah] got dual registration, so she can play for the boy’s team. “She was part of the girl’s setup in Campbeltown, in a good wee team, but there’s no competitive football for them unfortunately in the rural areas. “So they can train, and they can go to a couple of festivals, but that is it unfortunately for the girls down there, so a lot of girls are being left behind. “So we got her into the boy’s team because there is actually a boys league, so they can play competitive football. But coinciding with that, Leah got picked up for the Scottish FA emerging talent.” Dad Kris and Mum Jen also play the role of driver, making the six-hour round trip twice a week. However, there was an occasion when daughter Leah FLEW into training! “So its 130 miles from Campbeltown to Dumbarton, so 260 mile round trip on a Wednesday and then 260 mile round trip on the Saturday night. “Two weeks ago, she actually flew up, flew up for her training! There’s actually a wee LoganAir flight that takes you from Campbeltown straight into Glasgow international, it’s quite funny!” And Leah herself is aiming higher than a LoganAir aircraft at peak altitude. “I’m 100% focused on becoming a pro footballer I want to become like my favourite footballers Caroline Weir who plays for Real Madrid and Leah Williamson who plays for Arsenal.” With Dumbarton now in the process of installing a synthetic pitch, all youth teams will soon be able to play and train at the iconic The Rock. Find Dumbarton’s website here: https://dumbartonfootballclub.com/ Find Campbeltown Pupils here: https://campbeltownpupils.co.uk/ And remember, if you have any local stories you want shared, send them to us on our socials!

May 13, 2026

Too Big to go Down? The Ten Biggest Clubs to Suffer Relegation

Tottenham Hotspur’s chances of relegation from the English Premier League increased after a midweek home 3-1 defeat to Crystal Palace to put the Europa League holders just one point above the drop zone. An injury plagued squad last season managed by Ange Postecoglou finished 17th, but twelve points above 18th placed Leicester in a campaign that never threatened the North London club with relegation. However this year, relegation is a stark reality for the side now managed by Igor Tudor, with many suggesting Spurs falling would go down as the most shocking relegation of the Premier League era. Here are ten clubs who were relegated from their respective divisions that evidently were not too big to go down. 1. Hearts & Hibs, 2013/14 Both teams which share Edinburgh suffered relegation in the same season, with Hearts’ suffering a 15 point deduction at the beginning of the campaign that actually kept their city rivals from going down automatically after finishing just 13 points behind them. Hibernian had the opportunity to stay up via the relegation play-offs, but would lose the second leg at home 2-0 to Hamilton Academical, leading to a penalty shoot-out defeat to consign both clubs to a season in the Championship shared with Rangers. Hearts bounced back first time of asking, but it took Hibernian three attempts to climb back up. 2. Atletico Madrid, 1999/2000 Spanish giants Atletico Madrid were brought down to Segunda División in 2000 alongside Sevilla, despite reaching the Copa del Rey Final in the same season. It was the capital city side’s first relegation in 66 years, having won the top-flight and cup double in 1996. It took Atleti two attempts to achieve promotion, and they haven’t looked back since. 3. Manchester United, 1973/74 It is inconceivable to imagine Manchester United in the second tier of English football, never mind a mere six years after winning the European Cup, yet that was the case back in the 70s. They had lost their talented trio of George Best, Bobby Charlton and Denis Law since then, with the ‘Lawman’ scoring at Old Trafford on the final day of the season for neighbours Manchester City after their fate had been sealed. 4. River Plate, 2011 One of the finest teams outside of Europe, Argentines River Plate were relegated for the only time in their history in 2011. The Argentinean relegation system is complicated, with the Buenos Aires side going down through a relegation play-off based off of their point average over the last three seasons, a system brought in to protect the bigger clubs. They lost the play-off 3-1 on aggregate to Cordoba. 5. FC Schalke 04, 2020/21 & 2022/23 Champions league regulars FC Schalke 04 suffered two relegations either side of their 2. Bundesliga promotion. Having possessed a side with quality such as Raul, Manuel Neuer and Klass-Jan Huntelaar in the 2010s, the Gelsenkirchen outfit were relegated during the COVID-19 season amid financial trouble and would go back down in their first season back up. After flirting with another relegation to the third tier, they are now top of the 2. Bundesliga with Edin Dzeko leading the line. 6. Manchester City, 1995/96 & 1997/98 It is fair to say their fortunes have changed now, but the blue side of Manchester long lived in the shadows of Manchester United, going down to the Championship the same year United won the Premier League in 1996, over a decade before their financial takeover. More shocking however was their relegation to League One just two years later, a fate which could be suffered by former Premier League winners Blackburn Rovers or Leicester City this season. Manchester City could join them, depending on the result of their court case. 7. Juventus, 2006 Juventus were relegated under nefarious circumstances amid the Calciopoli scandal which rocked Italian football. Alleged to be involved in a match-fixing scandal which remains contentious today, Juve were brought down to Serie B and stripped of two titles in the mid 2000s. They returned at the first time of asking, keeping hold of star players such as Alessandro Del Piero and Pavel Nedved, despite beginning with a points deduction. 8. Villarreal, 2011/12 The yellow submarine suffered the ignominy of relegation after one disastrous campaign coming after consistent European showings. It paved the way for exits for Giuseppe Rossi and Borja Valero, and their new manager brought in to guide them back to La Liga passed away from a heart attack the same day he was appointed. Villarreal would come back upon their second try, and would win the Europa League in 2021 after an 11-10 penalty shootout win over Manchester United. 9. Leeds United, 2003/04 For fans of a certain age, Leeds and the Championship seems normal. However, their relegation in 2004 after financial mismanagement came just three years after the club reached the UEFA Champions League semi-finals. The Elland Road side would not return to the top-flight until 2020, where they have been a bit of a yo-yo club since. 10. SSC Napoli, 2000/01 & 2003/04 From the Scudetti won in the era of Diego Armando Maradona in 1987 ad 1990, to the Scudetti won by Khvicha Kvartskhelia and Scott McTominay in 2023 and 2025, the Naples side fell as far down as Serie C in between. First suffering relegation to Serie B in 2001, financial woes dragged the Napolitanos to the third tier in 2004, recording attendances as high as 51,000 even at their lowest. They made their way back into the top division in 2007 alongside Juventus and Genoa. Have we missed anyone out? And where would a Tottenham relegation rank in this list if the once unthinkable now slightly probable scenario occurs this season?

March 9, 2026

Scottish Football Restructuring Proposal Aims to Modernise the National Game

A comprehensive new proposal to restructure Scottish football has been launched by supporter and former SPFL scout Joe Quinn to modernise the game, improve competitiveness, and strengthen its long-term commercial and sporting future. The proposal, which has already generated early discussion across sections of the Scottish football community, outlines a long-term vision to improve league structure, financial sustainability, youth development, women’s football, supporter engagement, and broadcast value. Joe Quinn believes that Scottish football is at a crossroads and must act now to avoid falling behind comparable European leagues. “Scottish football has an incredible history, passionate supporters, and strong community foundations, but the current structure risks holding the game back. This proposal is about creating a more competitive, modern, and entertaining product that can grow both domestically and internationally.” Key Proposals Include: A 14-14-14 League Structure A redesigned league system aimed at improving competitiveness, reducing repetitive fixtures, and strengthening promotion and relegation pathways across the pyramid. Enhanced Pyramid and National League System A stronger link between the SPFL and lower tiers to improve access, sustainability, and long-term development of clubs. League Cup Reform The current group stage would be replaced with a knockout format to increase excitement, competitiveness, and fan engagement. Improved TV Rights and Commercial Strategy The proposal calls for a more strategic approach to broadcasting, including Friday and Monday night matches and greater visibility for lower divisions. The proposal argues that Scottish football’s current TV deals are undervalued and that a stronger structure would justify increased investment. Ethical Sponsorship and Long-Term Growth The plan encourages a shift toward responsible, non-gambling sponsorship that aligns with modern football teams’ values and supports long-term sustainability. Youth Development Reform A national Under-18 and Under-21 league structure to strengthen pathways and retain talent in Scotland. Women’s Football Development A structured, competitive pyramid designed to grow the women’s game and increase visibility and standards. Supporter Engagement and Transparency Creation of a national supporter body, the Fans Collective of Scottish Football (FCSF), to improve communication, fan representation, and collaboration across clubs. National Team Vision The proposal also outlines a vision for both the men’s and women’s national teams to play selected matches across Scotland in cities and communities that do not regularly host international football, while keeping Hampden Park as the primary home. This approach is designed to boost local economies, increase grassroots engagement, and inspire the next generation of players and supporters. Driving National Conversation “This isn’t about criticism or division. It’s about starting a constructive national conversation. Scottish football belongs to everyone, and meaningful change will only happen if we work together.” The proposal is intended as a discussion platform and roadmap for future reform rather than a fixed solution. Media Opportunities Joe Quinn is available for interviews, radio and TV discussions, podcasts, and feature articles. Contact: Joe Quinn Email: joseph.a.quinn@hotmail.co.uk Mobile: 07967 213586

February 24, 2026

Title Challengers, Midfield Replacements, and Winless Runs: SPFL Matchday 24 Breakdown

As the Scottish Premiership season ticks towards February, let’s break down the latest round of fixtures. Game of the Round – Hibernian v Rangers Eight straight league victories have propelled Rangers into second place, and despite a 3-1 defeat in Porto, optimism remains high on the blue side of Glasgow. Danny Rohl, who secured his first away win at the Ibrox helm on a cold October night at Easter Road, now looks to Sunday’s return fixture to edge closer to the high-flying Jambos. The January arrivals of Andreas Skov Olsen, Tochi Chukwuani, and Tuur Rommens have fueled the belief that a first Premiership title since 2021 is within reach, setting the stage for an electrifying few months. In contrast, Hibernian are reeling from a dismal end to January; after a Scottish Cup exit at the hands of former boss Neil Lennon, they were soundly beaten 4-1 by an invigorated Falkirk. With top scorer Kieron Bowie reportedly nearing a £6 million move to Hellas Verona, David Gray needs a mammoth performance from his side to claim their first win over Rangers since 2016. As Easter Road prepares for Sunday’s clash, the question is whether Rangers will stretch their winning run to nine games or if Hibs can ease the mounting pressure on their manager. Player to Watch – Marc Leonard The Birmingham midfielder joined Derek McInnes’s side just days before Sunday’s top-of-the-table clash with Celtic, signing a loan deal until the end of the season that could see the former Hearts youngster become a vital part of their title charge. With Cammy Devlin sidelined by injury, Leonard appears to be an ideal replacement for the influential Australian; despite some early nerves on his debut, he grew into the game by showcasing an impressive passing range and a relentless work rate against the Celtic midfield. Having proven he is up for the fight, Leonard will likely keep his place for Saturday’s trip to Tannadice, where another positive performance could help Hearts extend their lead at the summit to seven points. Team Spotlight – Kilmarnock Neil McCann’s appointment at Rugby Park came as a surprise to many, marking his return to the dugout for the first time in over five years. His tenure has seen mixed results so far; after battling to a draw against Livingston, Kilmarnock suffered a disappointing Scottish Cup exit followed by a heavy defeat to an in-form Motherwell. Now precariously sitting in 11th place, McCann’s side must rely on their home form to survive, and a clash with an inconsistent Aberdeen side this Saturday offers a prime opportunity to kick-start his Ayrshire reign. With the 4-0 loss at Fir Park stretching Killie’s winless run to 16 matches, all eyes are on whether they can finally end their horror streak this weekend.

January 30, 2026

Portuguese football trip with rental car, showing how car rental in Portugal helps fans travel between matches

The Ultimate Portuguese Football Road Trip: Matches, Cities & Car Rental in Portugal

Why Portugal Is Perfect for Football Away Trips From Lisbon to Braga and Porto to Faro, Portugal allows fans to combine multiple fixtures, cities, and experiences within a single trip. While travel times are short, football schedules rarely align neatly with public transport. Late kick‑offs, weekend fixtures, and stadium locations outside city centres make flexibility crucial. That’s why more travelling supporters are choosing car rental in Portugal — building trips around football, not timetables. Car Rental in Portugal Why Football Fans Choose Klass Wagen For supporters creating a football‑first itinerary, Klass Wagen positions itself as the ideal travel partner. With car hire offices at Portugal’s main football gateways — Lisbon (LIS), Porto (OPO), Faro (FAO), and Madeira (FNC) — Klass Wagen operates at all the locations football fans are most likely to arrive through. With a fleet of 2,000+ vehicles ranging from economical city cars and family-sized SUVs to premium Mercedes models and spacious 7-seaters, Klass Wagen gives fans plenty of options to match their budget and trip plans. Their Risk 0 service means you don’t pay a damage deposit and are fully covered, removing stress from your journey. Key benefits for football travellers Unlimited kilometres — ideal for travelling between Lisbon, Braga, Guimarães, and Porto 24/7 customer support — essential for late‑night returns after matches Risk 0 Service — a no‑deposit, full‑coverage option that removes stress from travel plans Find out more: www.klasswagen.com Best Time to Plan a Portuguese Football Trip Spring (April–May) The business end of the season. Title races, European qualification battles, and relegation fights create electric atmospheres across the Primeira Liga. Autumn (September–October) Comfortable temperatures, fewer tourists, and easier ticket access make this an ideal period for first‑time visitors. Winter (November–March) Northern cities such as Porto and Braga are cooler and wetter, but accommodation prices drop and matchday culture remains strong throughout the season. Where Football Fans Should Eat Food is an essential part of any Portuguese away trip, especially when travelling between matches. Porto — Mercado do Bolhão Fresh seafood, meats, and regional cheeses in one of the city’s most iconic markets. Lisbon — Belcanto Two Michelin stars and a modern interpretation of Portuguese cuisine. Braga — Churrasqueira Nacional Braga Renowned for grilled meats, generous portions, and a no‑nonsense local atmosphere. Cultural Stops Between Fixtures Break up matchdays with some of Portugal’s most important cultural landmarks: Porto: Soares dos Reis National Museum — Portugal’s oldest art museum Lisbon: Belém Tower — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and symbol of the Age of Discovery Braga: Sé de Braga — Portugal’s oldest cathedral, founded before the country itself Pre‑Match Bars & Fan Spots Porto: Eleven Sports Bar Foz Lisbon: Rooftop Bar – Hotel Mundial Braga: Bar do Estádio, located inside Estádio Municipal de Braga Ideal spots to soak up local atmosphere before kick‑off. Matchday Experiences Porto: Estádio do Dragão is one of Europe’s most intimidating venues, driven by the relentless support of the Super Dragões. Lisbon: Benfica’s Estádio da Luz and Sporting CP’s José Alvalade Stadium offer two elite and contrasting matchday experiences in the capital. Braga: Estádio Municipal de Braga, carved into a mountainside, is among the most visually striking stadiums in world football. Budget Guide for Travelling Fans One‑Day Trip Meals: €30–50 Match ticket: €40–80 Drinks: €15–30 Weekend Trip Accommodation: €100–120 per night Meals & activities: €80–130 Transport: Car rental in Portugal with Klass Wagen offers flexibility and strong value, especially for groups Post‑Match Nightlife Porto: Lust Porto Lisbon: Lisbon Pub Crawl Braga: SETRA Frequently Asked Questions Is renting a car in Portugal worth it for football fans? Yes. It provides flexibility around late kick‑offs, away fixtures, and multi‑city trips. Which airport is best for a Portuguese football trip? Lisbon and Porto are the most popular gateways, with Faro and Madeira offering strong alternatives. How easy is it to drive in Portugal? Portugal has well‑maintained motorways and clear signage, making driving straightforward for visitors. Why choose Klass Wagen? Unlimited kilometres, 24/7 support, and a no‑deposit Risk 0 service make it ideal for football travellers. Final Whistle Portugal offers everything football fans want from an away trip — passion, culture, value, and atmosphere. But the country is best experienced on the move. With the freedom that comes from car rental in Portugal, and a football‑friendly service like Klass Wagen, supporters can build the ultimate Portuguese football road trip — long after the final whistle blows.

January 29, 2026

Scottish Charity Launches Pioneering Football Academy in Rwanda

Scottish charity launches groundbreaking football academy in Rwanda and calls on elite youth coaches to help change lives A Scottish football charity is seeking experienced youth coaches to volunteer at a newly launched football academy in Rwanda, East Africa – a pioneering project designed to transform grassroots football in one of the country’s most deprived regions. Karongi Football Academy officially opened in October 2025 and already works with 280 children aged between eight and 18. Remarkably, it is the first and only girls’ football academy in Rwanda, with a long-term ambition of achieving a 50/50 gender split. The academy is funded entirely through the efforts of Scottish youth players and coaches who travel to Rwanda on trips organised by registered charity Scottish Football for Rwanda. Now, the charity is inviting experienced coaches to help mentor and support its growing team of Rwandan coaches on the ground. Former St Mirren and Airdrie manager Danny Lennon is among the first high-profile names to get involved, travelling to Rwanda in June 2026 alongside Hibs Women midfielder Ellis Notley and Livingston FC Women’s coach Michael Wilson. A game-changing project Chief Executive Carey McEvoy outlined the origins and ambitions of the academy. “Since 2020, we’ve been taking groups of Scottish youth players and coaches to Rwanda with the backing of clubs such as Hearts and Spartans, as well as the Scottish FA,” McEvoy said. “When the Rwandan FA (FERWAFA) asked us to focus our efforts on youth development in the Karongi region – an area that has been long-deprived – the academy was born.” Thanks to the generosity of volunteers and supporters, the academy is already redefining what youth football looks like in Rwanda. Every player now owns a pair of football boots – a significant step forward in a country where many children traditionally play barefoot or in crocs. Each child also has their own football, rather than sharing one or two between an entire squad, allowing for structured training sessions rather than informal matches. Portable floodlights have also been introduced, a crucial development in a country where darkness falls at 6pm all year round. Small-sided games, appropriate goals and modern coaching practices – commonplace in Scotland – are being implemented for the first time in the region. “It’s completely changing the model,” McEvoy added. “These are basic things by Scottish standards, but in Rwanda they’re transformational.” The long-term vision is to establish senior men’s and women’s teams representing the Karongi district, competing in Rwanda’s national leagues for the first time in many years. Passing on experience Beyond equipment and facilities, coach education sits at the heart of the project. Groups of Scottish coaches will visit Rwanda three times each year, working closely with local coaches to develop a sustainable, culturally appropriate coaching model. “Not everything we do in Scotland will automatically work in Rwanda,” McEvoy explained. “That’s why having experienced coaches like Danny and Michael working alongside the Karongi team is so important – together they’ll shape an approach that’s right for Rwandan children.” The trips themselves have proven hugely impactful, with several coaches returning multiple times after being inspired by their first visit. More than football While football is the foundation, the academy’s wider mission is about education and opportunity. Players aged 16 and over are offered vocational training, learning practical trade skills to support them beyond their playing careers. A player sponsorship programme also helps provide school lunches – a critical intervention in a country where education is free, but meals are not. “Many children go without lunch, which affects both their learning and their performance on the pitch,” McEvoy said. “We know from other projects that something as simple as a school meal can dramatically improve attendance, focus and achievement.” How to get involved There are limited spaces available for experienced youth coach volunteers across all three trips scheduled for 2026 and 2027. More information is available at: www.rwandafootball.org/trips To sponsor an academy player, visit: www.rwandafootball.org/academy

January 10, 2026

The Ten Shortest Serving Managers in Scotland Since 2000

Wilfried Nancy became the shortest serving permanent manager in Celtic history when he was sacked yesterday after just eight matches in charge. The Frenchman left Columbus Crew in the MLS at the beginning of December for Glasgow, but failed to outlast the duration at the helm spent by his interim predecessor Martin O’Neill, who has since returned until the end of the season. Yet the 48-year-old is not alone when it comes to forgettable reigns in Scotland, as we take a look at the ten shortest serving permanent hires in the Scottish top-flight since the turn of the millennium. 1. Wilfried Nancy, Celtic – 33 days The aforementioned Wilfried Nancy. He leaves Scotland with two wins and six losses, with many sceptical he understood the gravity of the situation he was getting himself into. Fans would argue that bigger problems remain at Parkhead, but Thierry Henry’s former assistant’s stubbornness to adapt to the personnel at his disposal and persistence with his 3-4-2-1 shape would be his undoing. Nancy lost a cup final, fell further behind leaders Hearts and lost 3-1 at home to Rangers in just over a month in charge. 2. Jack Ross, Dundee United – 71 days A name that still haunts Dundee United fans to this day, Jack Ross was sacked from Dundee United after seven games in 2022 which seen him lose his last five. Perhaps not the state of the form sheet that was the reason for sacking the former Sunderland manager, but instead the manner of the defeats. After an astounding 1-0 home win over AZ Alkmaar in Conference League qualifiers, players were rested in a defeat to Livingston for the away leg, which the Terrors lost 7-0. Defeats to Hearts and St. Mirren followed, before Ange Postecoglou’s swashbuckling Celtic thrashed them 9-0 at Tannadice to show Ross the door. 3. Derek Adams, Ross County – 79 days Derek Adams returned to Dingwall for a third time in late 2023, but it was most definitely not third time the charm for the former Morecambe manager. This spell is most memorable for his infamous scathing post-match interview after a 1-0 home defeat to Dundee, where he said the standard of Scottish football was ‘shocking’ and that his former Morecambe side were ‘100 times better’ than his new squad. Unsurprisingly, this failed to turn his fortunes around, and Adams resigned after 2 wins from 12 games. 4. Alan Stubbs, St. Mirren – 87 days Alan Stubbs took charge in Paisley in 2018 after St. Mirren won promotion to the Premiership under Jack Ross’ stewardship. He was given just four league games in charge, defeating Dundee on the opening day of the season before three losses to the Rangers, Livingston and Hearts. The Scouser won the Scottish Cup with Hibs in 2016, but has not returned to management since leaving the Buddies and was replaced by Oran Kearney who kept them up via the relegation play-offs. 5. Mark McGhee, Dundee – 103 days Mark McGhee was appointed Dundee gaffer to save their season in February 2022, despite having an existing six-game ban from his time at Motherwell five years prior. Another 9-0 victim to Celtic from his also forgettable Aberdeen spell as manager, he was unable to keep the dark blue side of Tannadice Street afloat, as they went down to the Championship and McGhee’s contract was not extended, having won only once in fourteen fixtures. 6. George Burley, Hearts – 112 days The most unjustified dismissal of this list, fans across the country could not believe what they were being told when news broke that George Burley left Tynecastle by ‘mutual consent’ in October 2005 following ‘irreconcilable differences’ with ill-famed owner Vladimir Romanov. Burley left Hearts top of the league after ten games, having won eight of those. His only other job in Scotland was as national team manager, but he was a lot less successful at Hampden than he was in the capital city. 7. Lee McCulloch, Kilmarnock – 118 days Initially appointed in interim charge alongside Peter Leven in 2017 after Lee Clark left Rugby Park, Lee McCulloch took the reins full-time at the end of the season after Killie finished 8th in 16/17. However, after no wins in his opening eight league games with the permanent gig, the f0rmer Rangers’ utility player was sacked and replaced by Steve Clarke. McCulloch now serves as talent acquisition manager at Premier League club Brighton and Hove Albion. 8. Shaun Maloney, Hibernian – 120 days Shaun Maloney was offered his first managerial gig at Hibs in December 2021 after being highly spoken of from his time spent as a coach at Celtic and the Belgian national side. He would win his first two games, but would only register another four wins from his 19 managed overall and was sacked following a 2-1 Scottish Cup semi-final defeat to city rivals Hearts. Maloney has now become Martin O’Neill’s assistant for the rest of this season at Celtic. 9. Russell Martin, Rangers – 123 days In an era of awful appointments at Ibrox, Russell Martin holds the unwanted tag of being booted out the quickest. Enjoying little success in Govan as a player and as a manager, his arrival at the beginning of this season was immediately met with scepticism when he announced he would not follow club tradition of wearing a suit and brogues. His public fallouts with star men Nico Raskin and Hamza Igamane doomed him from the start, as he was escorted out of the Falkirk Stadium after a 1-1 draw which would be his last match as Rangers manager, winning just one of his first eight league games. 10. Michael Wimmer, Motherwell – 133 days Another appointment that didn’t go wrong, Wimmer left Motherwell at the end of last season having only took the job in February 2025. He won five and drew three of his twelve games in charge at Fir Park, before leaving for his native land to manage German third-tier side

January 6, 2026

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