England’s Phillips returned from World Cup overweight, says Guardiola | CNN

England midfielder Kalvin Phillips returned from the World Cup overweight and not in the right condition…

Exclusive: Iranian footballer is among dozens facing execution while the West is distracted by Christmas, supporters fear | CNN

CNN  —  Shahid Alikhani square is a nondescript part of the historic Iranian city of Isfahan.…

The year in sport: A fond farewell for some, a glimpse of the future for others | CNN

CNN  —  An athlete, former jockey AP McCoy said earlier this year, is the only person…

Argentine tattooists swamped by demand for Messi tributes | CNN

Reuters  —  Since Argentina’s World Cup win turned Buenos Aires into a massive street party, tattoo…

Hundreds gather to celebrate Grant Wahl’s memory and impact at New York City memorial | CNN

CNN  —  Several hundred people gathered at The Times Center in New York City Wednesday afternoon…

Pep Guardiola says Lionel Messi is the best player of all time | CNN

CNN  —  Manchester City manager and Lionel Messi’s former coach Pep Guardiola has reiterated his belief…

How the world reacted to ‘the best World Cup final ever’ | CNN

CNN  —  This World Cup final was a game that seemed to defy comprehension, conventions and…

David Beckham responds to criticism of his ambassadorial role at Qatar World Cup | CNN

CNN  —  English football great David Beckham has addressed criticism over his role as an ambassador…

How the Arab world’s most populous country became addicted to debt | CNN Business

Editor’s Note: A version of this story appears in today’s Meanwhile in the Middle East newsletter,…

FIFA and UEFA did not breach EU laws in blocking European Super League, but proponents aren’t for giving up | CNN

CNN  —  The decisions taken by soccer bodies FIFA and UEFA to block the European Super…