Spain sink Germany to retain Women’s Nations League title as Hermoso makes return

Aitana Bonmatí has been named the best female footballer in the world for 2025, as determined by a panel of 127 judges, including players, coaches, and journalists. The voting process involved 104,140 votes, with judges ranking their top 40 players, contributing to a final score that recognized Bonmatí's exceptional talent.

Germany's president was hosted at a glittering state banquet in the UK, marking the first day of his state visit. The event showcased the ceremonial hospitality extended by the British royals, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

King Charles welcomed German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, affirming that the UK and Germany are prepared to strengthen Europe against potential Russian aggression while expressing support for Ukraine. This visit highlights the significance of the Kensington treaty, which aims to enhance cooperation between the two nations in various sectors, including defense and migration.

Germany has been awarded the hosting rights for the 2029 Women’s European Championship, winning 15 out of 17 votes from Uefa’s executive committee. The country aims to set a new record for ticket sales, surpassing previous tournaments. This decision comes after a competitive bidding process, where Germany outperformed bids from Poland and a joint submission from Denmark and Sweden, while Portugal and Italy withdrew from contention.

Relations between French company Dassault and the German unit of Airbus are reportedly very strained, threatening the collaboration on a next-generation fighter jet. The chief executive of engine manufacturer Safran noted that despite internal rivalries, the leaders of France and Germany have a strong willingness to pursue this project together.

Sports Interactive has integrated women's teams into Football Manager, reflecting a significant step towards inclusivity in sports gaming. The update allows players to manage women's clubs, starting with the Arsenal team, where managers face challenges such as budget constraints and player recruitment, exemplified by attempts to sign notable players like Aitana Bonmatí and Patri Guijarro.

Spanish police have dismantled the first known cell in the country linked to The Base, a white supremacist group founded in the United States and classified as a terrorist organization. Three individuals were arrested, including a suspected leader who has been remanded in custody in eastern Spain, north of Valencia.

The OECD has cautioned that Chancellor Rachel Reeves' strategy of higher taxes and spending restraint will hinder consumer expenditure in the UK, despite forecasts indicating that the UK economy will grow faster than France, Germany, and Italy next year. This fiscal consolidation is expected to limit household disposable income and slow consumption.