Among today’s top football stories, one includes the potential new coach for AC Milan, another highlights a Persebaya legend backing Brazil for World Cup 2026, and finally, Liverpool’s transformation under Andoni Iraola.

Strong Candidate for AC Milan Head Coach

Oliver Glasner’s name is increasingly being linked to the AC Milan managerial position for the 2026–2027 season.

The former Crystal Palace coach is reportedly in advanced discussions with the Rossoneri management to take over the head coach role next season.

Glasner emerged as a top contender soon after Spanish coach Andoni Iraola declined the role.

The Austrian tactician is currently unattached after parting ways with Premier League club Crystal Palace following their UEFA Conference League triumph.

A meeting between AC Milan representatives and Glasner, who is set to replace Massimiliano Allegri, is scheduled for Tuesday (2 June 2026) local time.

Glasner is reportedly one of the leading candidates monitored by AC Milan owner Gerry Cardinale, CEO Massimo Calvelli, and senior advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Talks between Glasner and the Rossoneri have been described as constructive and positive, reflecting mutual understanding between both parties.

Both sides reportedly ended their meeting on good terms, with further discussions planned for the near future.

After meeting with the former Eintracht Frankfurt coach, AC Milan plans to conduct further evaluations and interview other candidates.

Mauricio Pochettino Focused on the 2026 World Cup

Another name previously linked to the Milan job was United States national team coach Mauricio Pochettino.

Pochettino reportedly met AC Milan officials but chose not to proceed further, as he remains fully focused on leading his national team at the 2026 World Cup.

“The transparency we’ve shown is about commitment to the national team until the World Cup ends,” he told Goal, quoted via Kompas.com.

“For almost two years, we’ve received many offers, but we always said we would complete our contract in July after the World Cup.”

“Of course, we’ve been approached. I won’t hide that. I’ve met people from different clubs, but those were casual talks because we have friends in football,” he added.

“We have colleagues everywhere, and my representatives are working to explore the best possible options for the future. That’s normal,” said Pochettino.

AC Milan also reportedly contacted Mathias Jaissle, one of the preferred options of prospective sporting director Ralf Rangnick. However, negotiations remain complicated since Jaissle is still under contract with Saudi Arabian club Al Ahli.

Another name on Milan’s shortlist is Arne Slot, who was dismissed by Liverpool at the end of the 2025–2026 season.

Persebaya Legend Favors Brazil

Persebaya Surabaya legend Muharom Rusdiana has tipped Brazil as the strongest contender to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

According to him, the Selecao possess a world-class squad filled with top players from Europe’s elite leagues.

He also believes the presence of Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti will be a decisive factor in helping Brazil reclaim football’s most prestigious trophy.

The 2026 World Cup will take place from June 11 to July 19 across three host nations, making it the biggest tournament in history with 48 participating teams — up from 32 in previous editions.

Muharom Rusdiana predicts fierce competition but believes traditional football powerhouses like Spain, Argentina, France, the Netherlands, and Brazil will have a smooth start.

“But my pick is Brazil,” he told TribunJatim.com on Thursday (4 June 2026).

Brazil, the most successful team in World Cup history, have lifted the trophy five times (1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, and 2002), ahead of Germany and Italy, who each have four titles.

They are also the only nation to have never missed a single World Cup since its inception in 1930.

Brazil finished runners-up twice (1950 and 1998), third twice (1938 and 1978), and fourth twice (1974 and 2014).

“Brazil have many players from Europe’s Serie A,” Muharom added, emphasizing the team’s depth and experience.

He also praised Ancelotti’s tactical expertise: “Coach Ancelotti is a master strategist. The pre-World Cup qualifiers went perfectly,” he concluded.

Brazil are drawn into Group C alongside Morocco, Haiti, and Scotland for the 2026 World Cup.

Profile: Brazil National Football Team

Known as the Selecao, Brazil remain the most successful and iconic team in FIFA World Cup history. They have claimed the world title five times and remain the only nation to have participated in every edition since 1930.

Despite their dominance, Brazil have not lifted the trophy since 2002, when Ronaldo Nazário led them to victory over Germany. Their form in recent tournaments has been inconsistent, often falling short during the knockout stages.

Under Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil hope to rediscover their winning mentality. The Italian tactician, known for his flexible tactics and calm leadership, becomes the first foreign coach in Brazil’s World Cup history.

Vinícius Júnior is expected to be the team’s attacking spearhead. The Real Madrid winger is known for his pace, dribbling, and creativity. With Neymar absent, much of Brazil’s attacking responsibility will fall on his shoulders.

Other key players include Raphinha, Casemiro, and Matheus Cunha, providing depth and balance across the squad.

Brazil’s group stage fixtures are as follows: June 14 vs Morocco (New York/New Jersey Stadium), June 20 vs Haiti (Philadelphia Stadium), and June 25 vs Scotland (Miami Stadium).

Combining youthful energy and experience, Brazil remain one of the top favorites to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Their mission is clear — end the 24-year title drought and reclaim their place as world football’s reigning power.

Liverpool’s New Era Under Andoni Iraola

Liverpool are preparing for a new chapter after parting ways with Arne Slot, reportedly appointing Spanish coach Andoni Iraola as their new manager.

This change marks a major transition for the Reds, as key players like Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson — both long-serving pillars — have departed.

Iraola has reportedly agreed to a two-year contract, a relatively short term that adds urgency for quick results. Club legend Jamie Carragher has expressed reservations about whether Iraola’s tactical style will fit Liverpool’s philosophy.

Beyond the coaching change, Liverpool face a significant rebuilding challenge. The exits of Salah and Robertson leave major gaps, particularly Salah’s departure, given his vital role in the club’s success over the past nine years.

Additionally, reports suggest Ibrahima Konate could move to Real Madrid on a free transfer, further complicating Liverpool’s squad situation.

Liverpool have already spent nearly Rp9.5 trillion in the previous summer transfer window, limiting their flexibility to make major signings this season. This financial constraint adds to the challenge Iraola inherits.

According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Iraola’s preference for short-term contracts is a deliberate choice to ensure mutual satisfaction and adaptability between the coach and the club. “This short-term deal is at Iraola’s request — it’s how he operates with every club,” Jacobs explained.

With just two seasons to make his mark, Iraola must deliver immediate progress to restore Liverpool’s status as a title contender. His impressive run with Bournemouth, guiding them into the Europa League, demonstrates his tactical acumen and potential to succeed at a higher level.

However, Carragher remains cautious: “If you look at most of his seasons, his teams tend to fade in the second half. Last season was probably the first time he sustained performance across two halves,” he said during The Overlap Fan Debate podcast.

“At Liverpool, he’ll need to manage differently because the team will dominate possession far more than at Bournemouth,” Carragher added.

All eyes will be on how Andoni Iraola adapts to the demands of managing Liverpool, as he attempts to script another success story following his remarkable journey with Bournemouth.