Photo via BBC Sport

Ballon d'Or shortlist and a shock resignation

Football's recent headlines are led by the official unveiling of contenders in the running for the Ballon d'Or. Alongside the celebrated candidates, Spanish tacticians are capturing attention by asserting significant control and influence across the sport at the highest level.

Meanwhile, the wider football landscape has been stunned by an unexpected departure, with a sudden resignation adding notable drama to the current sporting calendar.