Exploring the September 2026 Issue of World Soccer Magazine

World Soccer's September 2026 edition is here, spotlighting the excitement surrounding Poland’s Ekstraklasa as it kicks off its 2026-27 season. The magazine's focus on the league is fueled by its unpredictable nature and the captivating stories of its players, leading the editorial team to experience the action firsthand during the opening match.

A Closer Look at the Ekstraklasa

The Ekstraklasa isn't just another football league; it's a microcosm of Poland's football culture, rich with history and drama. As the league launches into another season, it continues to captivate fans both locally and globally. This year's edition promises a range of unexpected twists, which can often mark a turning point in a club's fortune. For instance, teams that were once perennial relegation candidates can become serious contenders with the right players and management. This unpredictability is a hallmark of Polish football, making it increasingly attractive for viewers who crave something outside of the more predictable leagues.

European Football Narratives

This issue also brings attention to narratives from various European leagues, including insights from France, Romania, Italy, and Denmark. European football is a tapestry woven with diverse stories, each adding depth to the sport as a whole. In a time when several teams face upheavals, whether due to financial constraints or managerial changes, these insights reveal the often-unseen struggles that clubs contend with. Readers can expect profiles of about 59 players to watch this season, as the individual talent within these leagues garners attention. Such profiles not only highlight the players' achievements but also their potential to influence their teams' trajectories.

Remembering Legends

The magazine pays tribute to two football legends, Kevin Keegan and Franco Baresi, who both recently passed away, offering a reflection on their impactful careers. The legacies of these players serve as a reminder of football's ability to shape not just sporting lives but also cultural identities. Keegan, with his infectious enthusiasm and remarkable skills, transformed the game in England during his career. Meanwhile, Baresi epitomized defensive mastery in football’s history, setting a standard for defenders worldwide. Their lives were filled with memorable moments, and the loss felt in the football community marks a significant moment of reflection for many fans.

Contents Overview

THE WORLD THIS MONTH
4 In pictures
12 Henry Winter Newcastle United
14 Keir Radnedge FIFA & Infantino
16 Jonathan Wilson Franco Baresi
17 In numbers
18 Moves you might have missed
19 Obituaries

SPECIAL TRIBUTES
20 Franco Baresi
22 Kevin Keegan

EYEWITNESS
26 Poland Wisla Krakow’s top-flight return
30 Italy The Lazio fans on strike

SEASON PREVIEW
36 England
40 Spain
44 Germany
48 Italy
52 France
56 Portugal
58 Netherlands
60 Scotland
62 Best of the Rest

FEATURES
63 Major clubs, major rebuilds
74 League Focus Romania
76 Ligue 3 Restructuring French football
80 Spotlight Luka Vuskovic

INTERVIEWS
84 Face to Face Luis Binks
88 Face to Face Jordan Hadaway
115 My Biggest Game Lubomir Moravcik

WOMEN’S FOOTBALL
90 European season preview

Exploring the Wider Football Scene

WORLD SERVICE

94 South America Uruguay, Copa Sudamericana and more
96 Asia Indian Super League, J.League, SAFF Championship and more
98 Saudi Arabia 2026-27 season preview
100 Northern Cyprus Overcoming isolation
101 The Sweeper Tales from the 211

What stands out about this issue is its global approach. It's not merely about one league or country, but how interconnected the football world has become. While the Ekstraklasa receives the spotlight, the magazine takes an expansive view. The features discuss leagues in Asia, South America, and beyond. Each segment highlights distinct challenges, like how the Saudi Arabian league is reshaping player dynamics or how Indian clubs are striving for recognition on the international stage.

Implications and Future Outlook

What's unfolding in this edition is more significant than it looks. The focus on multiple leagues and the shifted attention can indicate a broader trend towards decentralizing football's Power Structure. As fans seek fresh narratives and players outside the traditional powerhouses, leagues like Poland's Ekstraklasa could rise in prominence, showcasing talents that might otherwise be overlooked. For those working in this space, whether they're players, agents, or club managers, this shift represents both a challenge and an opportunity—new markets, new talents, and new possibilities for growth.

And yet, scrutiny remains essential. As clubs chase short-term success, especially after tumultuous seasons, long-term sustainability could be at stake. Football is often thought of in the immediate; the impact of financial choices may linger for years. With turbulent management changes and an increasing number of players vying for limited opportunities, the next few seasons will likely require both agility and wisdom. If the landscape is maturing, it brings both promise and peril.