Liverpool’s future defensive reinforcement, Jeremy Jacquet, has sparked fresh concern at Anfield after picking up a ‘painful’ shoulder injury during his latest outing for Rennes.

According to The Mirror, the highly-rated French center-back, who signed for the Reds in a £60 million deadline day deal before being loaned back to Ligue 1, was forced off the pitch in agony during Rennes’ clash with Lens.

Jacquet had been enjoying a commanding performance at the heart of the defense before disaster struck just shy of the 70-minute mark.

Following a heavy collision, he was seen clutching his arm and grimacing in obvious distress, eventually leaving the field with the assistance of the medical staff.

Liverpool will be closely monitoring Jeremy Jacquet injury

While Jacquet is not scheduled to officially join Arne Slot’s squad until July 1, the report states that Liverpool officials will be closely monitoring his recovery.

The club views the 20-year-old as a key part of their future defence, having moved aggressively to secure his signature ahead of Chelsea.

Reports suggest that the defender was in significant pain in the dressing room, though the full extent of the damage is yet to be confirmed.

The Reds are currently dealing with an injury crisis

The news from France feels like a cruel case of deja vu for Liverpool supporters, who are currently enduring an injury crisis in defence.

The right-back position has been particularly cursed this season; following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s high-profile departure to Real Madrid, his replacement, Jeremie Frimpong, has struggled to stay fit and is currently sidelined with a recurring thigh issue.

To make matters worse, Conor Bradley is out for the remainder of the season with a serious knee injury, and versatile defender Joe Gomez has only just returned to light training after a groin problem.

With the backline stretched to its breaking point, the last thing Arne Slot needed was news that his future reinforcements are now joining the walking wounded.

The post Liverpool receive more injury news as defender suffers ‘painful’ shoulder injury appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Martin Zubimendi was on the target for Arsenal for the second successive league game, helping his team win 3-0 against Sunderland. 

His goal came just before half-time, as he drilled one from long-range to open the scoring for the Gunners.

Martin Zubimendi dedicates celebration to Mikel Merino

A fan footage circulating on X shows that immediately after his 25-yard screamer hit the back of the net, Zubimendi didn’t just celebrate for himself.

Instead, he made a beeline for the corner flag, replicating the iconic celebration of his teammate and close friend, Mikel Merino, who has been sidelined with a serious injury.

The video, shared by @afcnewsroom shows Zubimendi performing Merino’s trademark corner flag spin, a celebration synonymous with the midfielder since his days at Real Sociedad.

? Zubimendi pulls out the Merino celebration and our fans loved it. ?? pic.twitter.com/EQO3gr115k

— afcnewsroom (@afcnewsroom) February 7, 2026

The two midfielders share a strong bond, having played together in San Sebastián before reuniting in North London.

Mikel Merino is out for the season and could even miss World Cup

The tribute comes at a heartbreaking time for Merino. The midfielder was ruled out for the remainder of the 2025/26 campaign last week.

The diagnosis has dealt a blow not just to Arsenal, but to Merino’s international dreams.

With the 2026 World Cup in North America just a few months away, there are growing fears that the 29-year-old will not recover in time to make the Spain squad.

Arsenal go nine points clear at the top

Goals from Zubimendi and Viktor Gyokeres helped Arsenal to a comfortable 3-0 win over Sunderland.

The win takes them nine points clear at the top of the Premier League table, putting them in a very comfortable position.

Manchester City are playing catch up at this stage and they face Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.

Despite Liverpool not being at their very best this season, it remains a tough task for Pep Guardiola.

Dropping any more points will put Arsenal in a very sweet spot as we enter the final stretch of the season.

The post Arsenal fans will love what Martin Zubimendi was spotted doing during win against Sunderland appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Thomas Frank has confirmed that Cristian Romero will not be stripped of the captaincy following his early red card against Manchester United, offering a staunch defense of the Argentine defender’s character and leadership.

Despite the defender being dismissed just 28 minutes into the high-stakes clash, Frank was quick to shut down rumors of a change in leadership.

“No, I think it is fair to say he doesn’t have any intention to get a red card after 28 minutes,” the manager stated (quotes via Guardian).

Frank emphasised that there is “no regret” in handing Romero the armband, noting that the player had already apologised to his teammates.

“There is not any regret in making him captain and also he is sorry for the incident. He apologised to his teammates.

“He is one of the most important players. We haven’t spoken specifically about this – he apologised: that is enough for me for now. If you look at how many red cards he had, it is not like that he had that many, when you play with passion and aggression.”

Cristian Romero sets unwanted feat with latest red card

The red card against United added another chapter to the defender’s controversial disciplinary record.

Romero has now been sent off six times across all competitions since making his debut for the club, the most of any Premier League player within that period.

Romero has now been sent off six times across all competitions since making his debut for Spurs, the most of any Premier League player within that period.

Thomas Frank couldn’t quite believe it…? pic.twitter.com/a06hWsqqHP

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) February 7, 2026

His aggressive, front-footed style has often been a double-edged sword for the North London side.

While his “passion and aggression” are qualities Frank admires, his tendency to find himself in the referee’s book has frequently left his team vulnerable.

Against United, the early exit forced a tactical reshuffle that ultimately hampered the team’s ability to compete.

However, Frank was quick to point out that such incidents are the byproduct of the intensity required to play at the highest level of the English game.

Could Romero leave Tottenham this summer?

Despite the manager’s public backing, speculation regarding Romero’s long-term future at the club continues to mount.

His recent social media rant hinted at growing frustration, leading many to believe he may be seeking a new challenge.

With top European clubs like Real Madrid linked with him, there is a distinct possibility that this could be his final season in North London.

The allure of the Spanish giants, combined with the World Cup winner’s desire for consistent silverware, could prove too much to ignore.

The post Cristian Romero captaincy decision made after record breaking red card against Manchester United appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Leicester City have opened initial talks with former manager Enzo Maresca regarding a sensational return to the King Power Stadium.

According to Sports Boom, the Foxes are reportedly in ‘meltdown’ and have turned to a familiar face in a desperate bid to stabilise a season that is rapidly spiraling out of control

The dramatic move comes in the wake of Marti Cifuentes’ sacking just six months into his tenure.

Cifuentes was dismissed following a brutal collapse in form that saw the team win only once between September and October.

A recent 2-1 home defeat to struggling Oxford United proved to be the final straw for the hierarchy.

How did Enzo Maresca do in his first stint at Leicester?

Maresca, who left Chelsea last month, remains a highly respected figure at Leicester due to the immediate impact he made during the 2023–24 campaign.

After being appointed in June 2023, the Italian tactician, a former assistant to Pep Guardiola, implemented a dominant, possession-based style that swept through the second tier.

During that season, he was named Championship Manager of the Month on four separate occasions as he guided the Foxes to the league title and an immediate return to the Premier League.

Although his eventual departure for Chelsea left some supporters divided, his track record of securing promotion from the Championship is exactly what the board believes is required.

Leicester City are in a precarious situation

The urgency of the move for Maresca is heightened by a mounting crisis off the pitch.

Leicester have been hit with an immediate six-point deduction for breaching Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) during the 2023–24 season.

This sanction has seen the club plummet to 20th in the Championship table, leaving them just outside the relegation zone.

With the fear of a double relegation now gripping the boardroom, the club are reportedly looking at Maresca to save their season.

The post Leicester City in ‘meltdown’ as talks open over surprise return behind the scenes appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Oliver Glasner has revealed that Crystal Palace had huge bids for a Marc Guehi replacement rejected on Deadline Day, capping off a chaotic and ultimately frustrating January transfer window for the South London club.

Despite the Eagles’ hierarchy sanctioning significant expenditure in the final hours of the window, Glasner confirmed that their attempts to recruit a new center-back were rebuffed by clubs unwilling to sell their prized assets so close to the 7:00 PM deadline.

Glasner reveals Crystal Palace deadline day drama

The Austrian manager, who has often cut a frustrated figure regarding the club’s recruitment strategy, admitted that while the intent was there, the timing proved fatal.

Glasner said (quotes via Standard)

“I’ve learned to accept situations. My wish of course, and everyone at the club, would have been that JP [Mateta] gets what he wants and we get Jorgen [Strand Larsen] and Dwight McNeil into the building and Marc Guehi’s replacement into the building.

“This is what everybody was working on until the final seconds. At the end of it the club tried everything with huge offers and huge bids for a Marc Guehi replacement, but clubs said they don’t sell on Deadline Day.

“Credit to the club that they without getting any money for JP spent a big fee on Strand Larsen.

“On the other side, McNeil was the last one we thought we could finalise but in the last minutes the terms of the deal changed again and the deal failed. I expected him and planned for him in the next day’s training.”

Glasner was not happy at Crystal Palace selling Marc Guéhi mid-season

The primary source of Glasner’s discontent stems from the mid-season departure of club captain Marc Guehi, who joined Manchester City in a deal worth an initial £20 million.

The move left a gaping hole in a defense that had already been weakened by the summer sale of Eberechi Eze to Arsenal.

Glasner previously described the sale of his captain just 24 hours before a Premier League fixture as ‘being abandoned’, arguing that the squad lacked the necessary depth to compete at the highest level.

The failure to secure a direct replacement on Deadline Day, despite interest in Lyon’s Ruben Kluivert and Club Brugge’s Joel Ordonez, leaves Palace light at the back for the remainder of the campaign.

Glasner set to leave the club at the end of the season

The tension over transfer policy has ultimately led to a definitive break. Glasner has confirmed he will leave Selhurst Park this summer, seeking a ‘new challenge’ once his contract expires.

Despite leading Palace to a historic FA Cup triumph in 2025, the breakdown in alignment between the manager and the board over the timing of player sales and arrivals has made his exit inevitable.

Manchester United have been among clubs interested in Glasner, but given Michael Carrick’s impeccable start as caretaker manager, the club could end up sticking with the club legend.

The post Oliver Glasner confirms Crystal Palace had ‘huge offers’ rejected for Marc Guehi replacement on Deadline Day appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Martin Zubimendi has drilled a strike from outside the box to give Arsenal the lead against Sunderland.

The Spanish maestro, who has become the heartbeat of Mikel Arteta’s midfield since his summer move from Real Sociedad, broke the deadlock in the 42nd minute.

After a patient spell of possession, Leandro Trossard find space on the left and cut the ball back to the edge of the box.

Zubimendi took one touch to set himself before unleashing a low, fizzing effort that clipped the inside of the post and flew past Sunderland’s Robin Roefs.

Watch the goal below:

Martin Zubimendi SCORES!!

? 1-0 Arsenal FC vs Sunderland AFC

WATCH EVERY GOAL ? https://t.co/2w98QqADfX#PL #PremierLeague pic.twitter.com/RZyxVBjWLJ

— FuboCanada ?? (@fuboTVCanada) February 7, 2026

Martin Zubimendi’s stats for Arsenal this season

Zubimendi has been a key player for the Gunners this campaign, forming a brilliant partnership with Declan Rice in the middle of the pitch.

Apart from his defensive contribution, he has pitched in with some important goals as well.

He has now scored in successive games, after his strike last week helped Arteta’s side win against Leeds.

Win vs Sunderland extends Arsenal’s lead to 9 points

As the match enters the second half, the stakes for the Gunners could not be higher.

Arsenal started the day six points clear of Manchester City, but a victory here would see that gap extend to a nine points.

While City hold a game in hand, they face a daunting trip to Anfield to take on Liverpool on Sunday.

If Arsenal win, they will put immense pressure on Pep Guardiola’s side, who would then be forced to win in one of world football’s most hostile environments just to keep the Gunners within sights.

The post Watch: Martin Zubimendi scores long-range stunner to give Arsenal the lead vs Sunderland appeared first on CaughtOffside.

In a frustrating night for Tottenham at Old Trafford, the dismissal of vice-captain Cristian Romero proved to be the turning point as Manchester United secured a comfortable 2-0 victory.

The Argentine defender was shown a straight red card following a VAR review for a high challenge, leaving his side to to play majority of the game with ten men.

Cristian Romero apologised in the dressing room

Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario revealed how the center-back reacted inside the dressing room.

Speaking after the final whistle, Vicario was quick to defend the defender’s character while confirming that Romero took full responsibility for the incident.

He told TNT Sport: “He is disappointed because he knows this red card could have been avoided so he apologised. He is our captain and today he made a mistake but we know the player he is and he is going to come back stronger and help us massively throughout the season.”

"He apologised to us… we know the player he is, and he’s going to come back stronger"

Tottenham goalkeeper Vicario says club captain Cristian Romero apologised to the squad following a difficult outing against United ?

?? @julesbreach | ? @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/oLTfz6zrFh

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 7, 2026

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Romero makes Tottenham record for joint-most red cards

The red cards vs Manchester United saw the Argentine level an unwanted record for the club.

Romero now has the joint-most red cards for Tottenham in the Premier League history with four sending offs.

Only other player to have this many red cards is Younes Kaboul.

The latest red card means he will not be handed a four-game ban which will see him miss crucial fixtures including the North London derby.

Tottenham future in doubt for Romero

The sending off comes after the club punished him internally for his explosive rant on social media.

Romero called the club out, labelling their lack of activity in the transfer market as ‘disgraceful’.

This did not go down well with the hierarchy who dealt with him behind the scenes as confirmed by Thomas Frank ahead of the game.

His recent comments have further fuelled speculations over a summer exit, with Real Madrid among top clubs linked with a move for the World Cup winner.

The post Guglielmo Vicario reveals what happened in Tottenham dressing room after Cristian Romero red card appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Tottenham Hotspur passed on the opportunity to bolster their attack with a high-profile loan move for Colombian striker Jhon Duran on transfer deadline day.

Despite a frantic final few hours of the winter window, the North London club ultimately decided to stick with their current squad.

Tottenham turned down chance to sign Jhon Duran

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed on the Here We Go podcast that Duran was offered to Spurs as a ‘last-minute chance’ while he was looking to cut short his loan spell at Fenerbahce.

The 22-year-old, who made headlines last year with a massive £64 million move to Saudi side Al-Nassr, has amassed an impressive career tally of 54 goals and 15 assists across his spells in MLS, the Premier League, and abroad.

The opportunity arose due to industry speculation that Tottenham might terminate the loan of Randal Kolo Muani early.

The French international has been heavily linked with a return to PSG or a move to Juventus after a stop-start beginning to life in London.

“Tottenham were offered the possibility to sign Jhon Duran on loan from Fenerbahce, who is on loan from Al-Nassr.

“He was offered to Tottenham as a last-minute chance for Spurs. The club decided against it.

“It was a possibility that was offered because some people in the industry thought that Tottenham were going to break the loan for Randal Kolo Muani to go to Juventus from Paris Saint-Germain.

“So that was a possibility, but Tottenham decided to continue with Kolo Muani. He started the last two games, so they decided to trust the player and turn down the opportunity to sign Duran, who was keen on this possibility.”

Manager Thomas Frank reportedly played a key role in the decision, opting for continuity over another mid-season transition, despite the team languishing in 14th place.

Duran joins Zenit in shock move

With the door to the Premier League closed, Duran’s entourage acted quickly.

Within hours of the English deadline passing, it was confirmed that the ‘lethal‘ striker had terminated his contract in Turkey to join Zenit Saint Petersburg on loan for the remainder of the season.

Jhon Duran club career stats via Transfermarkt

The move to Russia marks Durán’s third club in just 12 months, continuing a nomadic period for the former Aston Villa man.

While Spurs fans wonder if they missed out on a clinical goalscorer, the club’s hierarchy is betting that Kolo Muani will finally find his shooting boots as they look to salvage their season.

The post Romano confirms Tottenham turned down chance to sign 54-goal ‘lethal’ star on deadline day appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool host Manchester City at Anfield on Sunday in what is set to be a cracking showdown between two of Premier League’s best teams over the last decade.

The Reds need a win to continue their growing momentum in the second half of the season.

While Man City can not afford to lose any more points if they want to catch up with Arsenal at the top of the table.

Tension will be high on Merseyside, and fans will be desperate to witness the spectacle firsthand. If you are looking to be there in person, you can find information on how to buy Liverpool vs Manchester City tickets.

Liverpool predicted XI vs Man City

Arne Slot is expected to keep the same lineup that beat Newcastle 4-1 last weekend.

Most notably, Dominik Szoboszlai is expected to continue his “inverted” role at right-back, filling in for the injured Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley while adding extra midfield presence in possession.

The only change in defence we expect is for the experienced Andy Robertson to replace Milos Kerkez for this encounter.

Ibrahim Konate is expected to partner Virgil van Dijk in the heart of the defence while Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch.

In attack, the partnership between Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike has been the talk of the Premier League.

Ekitike, who scored twice against Newcastle, starts up top, flanked by the ever reliable Mohamed Salah and the versatile Cody Gakpo.

GK: Alisson Becker

RB: Dominik Szoboszlai

CB: Ibrahima Konaté

CB: Virgil van Dijk

LB: Andy Robertson

CM: Ryan Gravenberch

CM: Alexis Mac Allister

LW: Cody Gakpo

AM: Florian Wirtz

RW: Mohamed Salah

ST: Hugo Ekitike

Form Comparison: Liverpool vs Manchester City

The two giants enter this fixture with contrasting momentum. Liverpool have found their rhythm in early 2026, while City have struggled with uncharacteristic inconsistency and a rare goal drought for Erling Haaland.

Liverpool’s Last Six (PL):

• W 4-1 vs Newcastle

• L 2-3 vs Bournemouth

• D 1-1 vs Burnley

• D 0-0 vs Arsenal

• D 2-2 vs Fulham

• D 0-0 vs Leeds

Manchester City’s Last Six (PL):

• D 2-2 vs Spurs

• W 2-0 vs Wolves

• L 0-2 vs Man United

• D 1-1 vs Brighton

• D 1-1 vs Chelsea

• D 0-0 vs Sunderland

While City won the reverse fixture 3-0 in November, Anfield has rarely been a kind hunting ground for Pep Guardiola.

With Liverpool’s new look attack starting to click, the Reds are expected to be much more of a threat compared to the game at the Etihad.

The post Liverpool vs Man City: Slot’s predicted XI as Szoboszlai continues at right-back but one key change expected appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has addressed the inevitable future of the club without captain Virgil van Dijk, insisting that while the defender remains vital, the hierarchy is already preparing for a transition.

Speaking ahead of a crurcial clash with Manchester City, Slot emphasised that Liverpool’s recruitment strategy is based on long-term stability rather than reactive “panic.”

The comments come on the heels of the Reds securing a €60 million deal for Rennes’ 20-year-old sensation Jeremy Jacquet, widely viewed as the long-term successor to the Dutch giant.

Slot lays out Liverpool plan for Virgil van Dijk

Slot was candid about the reality of aging stars, noting that while Van Dijk’s current contract runs until June 2027, the club must look ahead.

Speaking to the media ahead of the game against City, he said (via BBC Sport): “Everything done over here is never from panic, it’s always long term idea and or something that has been thought about for a long time and not only one person.

“Of course, we are aware of the fact that Virgil won’t play for 10 years but he has one-and-a-half years [of] contract left, so he will be with us for that time, maybe longer even longer if he keeps staying fit as fit as he is now.

“What a compliment to him at his age to play every three days, not only now for our club but for his country for seven or eight months already.

“Hopefully, he can stay as fit as he is for multiple years but this club is not stupid. We do know somewhere in the upcoming years, there is life for this club after Virgil.

“You are talking about Virgil but I can say this for every position. This club is not only thinking short-term future but also the mid to long-term future.”

? "There is life for this club without Virgil."

Arne Slot addresses Virgil van Dijk's Liverpool future. pic.twitter.com/xOPKNTKrGt

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) February 5, 2026

Van Dijk has been an outstanding servant for Liverpool

Since his transformative £75 million move from Southampton in 2018, Virgil Van Dijk has anchored the most successful period in Liverpool’s modern history.

Having led the team to Premier League and Champions League titles, his influence remains immense.

Even at 34, his statistics remain elite. This season, he has won more aerial duels (119) than any other defender in the Premier League.

Van Dijk can play at elite level for another several years

Despite the club signing younger reinforcements like Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni, Van Dijk’s fitness proves he can continue playing at the top level for another several years.

The manager suggested that as long as the fitness levels hold, an extension beyond 2027 is a genuine possibility.

With his leadership in the dressing room and his unmatched reading of the game, Van Dijk remains the gold standard.

While the club is wisely building the mid-to-long-term future, the immediate priority remains centered around the man who redefined the Liverpool defense.

The post Arne Slot puts Liverpool star’s future in doubt with concerning comments appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Brazilian outfit Bahia have reached an agreement to sign Tottenham striker Alejo Veliz on a permanent deal, as confirmed by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

The move, worth €9 million (£7.8m) plus performance-related add-ons, marks a significant shift for the Argentine forward who arrived in North London with high expectations just three years ago.

The agreement was verbally finalised today with Bahia director Cadu Santoro.

Veliz, currently back in Argentina on loan, expressed a desire to complete his current spell with Rosario Central before moving to Brazil.

Consequently, his medical and formal signing are scheduled for June 2026.

Taking to X, Romano revealed: “Bahia agree deal to sign Alejo Veliz from Tottenham on permanent move, here we go!

“€9m fee plus add-ons, Véliz wanted to stay in Rosario until the end of his loan and then join Bahia.Medical to happen in June, deal verbally agreed with director Cadu Santoro today.”

??? Bahia agree deal to sign Alejo Véliz from Tottenham on permanent move, here we go!

€9m fee plus add-ons, Véliz wanted to stay in Rosario until the end of his loan and then join Bahia.

Medical to happen in June, deal verbally agreed with director Cadu Santoro today. pic.twitter.com/1pW9H3GVWF

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 5, 2026

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Alejo Veliz failed to make it at Tottenham despite strong reputation

When Veliz joined Spurs for £13 million in August 2023, he was hailed as one of South America’s most “dynamite” young talents.

Standing at 6’2″ and possessing a physical, aerial presence, he was expected to provide a different dimension to the Tottenham attack.

However, his time in England was marred by a lack of opportunities and unfortunate timing.

He made just eight substitute appearances for the senior team, with his sole goal coming in a 4-2 defeat to Brighton.

Loan spells at Sevilla and Espanyol also failed to ignite his European career, as he struggled for consistent minutes in La Liga.

He is currently back in Argentina, playing for Rosario Central on loan from Spurs, and it appears that his time at the North London club has come to an end.

Veliz career stats across all clubs

Despite his struggles in Europe, Veliz’s overall career numbers highlight why Bahia, backed by the City Football Group, are willing to invest in him.

He has consistently proven his worth in his homeland, recently surpassing a career milestone of 34 senior goals across his various stints.

Alejo Veliz’s career stats across various clubs via Transfermarkt

The post Deal agreed with Tottenham for ‘dynamite’ 34-goal striker appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Leicester City’s survival hopes have been dealt a massive blow after the Premier League confirmed an immediate six-point deduction for the club.

The sanction, handed down by an independent Commission, relates to a breach of Profit and Sustainability Rules (P&S Rules) during the 2023/24 season.

The ruling follows a complex jurisdictional battle. After Leicester’s promotion to the top flight in 2024, the EFL’s investigation was transferred to the Premier League.

Despite legal challenges from the Foxes, including a claim that the rules breached competition law, the Commission determined that the club exceeded the permitted loss threshold by £20.8 million over a three-year assessment period.

Premier League statement after six points deduction confirmation

In an official statement, the Premier League revealed that the Commission rejected Leicester’s plea of “exceptional cooperation,” citing the club’s failure to provide annual accounts by the required deadline as a further rule breach.

While the Commission acknowledged the club’s “improving financial position” as a mitigating factor, the EFL Board has now ratified the recommendation.

As Leicester is currently competing in the Championship, the deduction has been applied to the current 2025/26 standings with immediate effect.

Leicester City in danger of relegation?

The timing of the points deduction could not be worse for the Foxes. Currently managed by an interim team following the recent sacking of Marti Cifuentes, the club has plummeted down the Championship table.

*> Reflects 6-point deduction

The deduction leaves Leicester in 20th place, hovering just three points above the relegation zone.

With back-to-back relegations now a distinct possibility, the club described the sanction as “disproportionate” and is currently considering an appeal.

Double standards highlighted as Man City yet to be charged

The swiftness of Leicester’s punishment has reignited fury among fans regarding the “115 charges” facing Manchester City.

While the Foxes have been sanctioned for a single-period breach, the investigation into City’s alleged historical financial irregularities (stretching from 2009 to 2018) remains unresolved.

Critics argue that the current system punishes mid-sized clubs while the “Big Six” benefit from protracted legal timelines.

With a verdict on Manchester City’s case not expected until late 2026 or even 2027, the perceived “double standard” in English football’s financial policing has never been more apparent.

The post Premier League confirms six-point deduction for former champions over financial breach appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United legend Jaap Stam has urged the club to forget about Michael Carrick and appoint Roberto De Zerbi instead. 

Stam believes the former Brighton manager will be a perfect fit for the Red Devils and De Zerbi may prefer a move to Old Trafford as well.

Stam urges Manchester United to snub Michael Carrick for Roberto De Zerbi

He said (via The Mirror): “I like De Zerbi very much, you know, because of how he performed at Brighton and also now in Marseille.

“How he’s playing with his teams, because he plays possession-based football, he’s very good on the ball. He also sets the players in certain positions that it makes it really difficult for the opposition to press them.

“You know, he’s going forward, he attacks. Scores a lot of goals, sometimes concedes, but you know that as a manager.

“But I think he’s also a good man-manager. I think he’s also good with the players and giving them the confidence, giving them the attention they need – and not only the starting XI, but also the other players within the squad.

“And that’s what you need in a big club like that. So I would be very happy if they don’t go for Carrick, and that they go for him.”

Roberto De Zerbi has made a name for himself in European football

De Zerbi’s reputation has skyrocketed since his time in the Premier League, where he led Brighton to European qualification for the first time in their history.

Currently at Marseille, his high-risk, high-reward style continues to garner attention across the continent.

Stam highlighted the Italian’s ability to manage big personalities and squads, a leadership skill required to manage a club like Man United.

Roberto De Zerbi’s manerail stats for Marseille and Brighton via Transfermarkt

He is highly rated and loved by his players, both current and former. In fact, Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister has even rated him above Jurgen Klopp and Arne Slot.

Speaking on the Rest is Football podcast, he said about De Zerbi: “He’s a crazy guy, but I love him. I think he’s the best manager I’ve ever had.”

Host Gary Lineker asked: “Really? Wow! You’ve got Slot and Klopp in there.”

Mac Allister replied: “I had a couple of conversations with Slot about De Zerbi as well, because he really likes the idea. Then I have coaches like (Gabriel) Heinze as well in Argentina. So I have very good coaches.”

Michael Carrick is making a strong case for a permanent role

While Stam looks elsewhere, Carrick is doing everything right on the pitch.

Since taking the reins, he has scrapped the rigid tactical systems of his predecessors and restored a sense of harmony to the dressing room.

Under his guidance, United have a 100% win record and have climbed back into the top-four race.

With a crucial home fixture against Tottenham looming, the clamor for Carrick to stay is growing, but the debate between a “club man” and an established European tactician like De Zerbi remains the central question for the United hierarchy.

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Liverpool right-back Conor Bradley could be out for much longer than initially thought.

That is according to injury expert Ben Dinnery, who claims that the Northern Irish international is looking at a significantly longer spell on the sidelines, with his return potentially pushed back as far as 2027.

Bradley sustained a major knee injury during Liverpool’s 0-0 draw at Arsenal in early January.

While the club initially hoped for a return for pre-season, the latest assessment from the injury expert suggests otherwise.

Conor Bradley’s injury worse than initially feared

Speaking exclusively to Anfield Index, Dinnery provided a rather discouraging update on the 22-year-old’s condition.

The injury, which occurred during a high-tension stoppage-time incident at the Emirates, involves both significant ligament and bone damage.

Dinnery said:

“We’re probably looking at something that is going to head into the latter part of the year.

“If there’s any return in 2026, it would be a massive bonus for Liverpool, but it could quite easily stretch into the early part of 2027.

Dinnery also explained that the non-contact nature of the mechanism of the injury points toward a serious ACL problem.

“You’re always concerned with regards to a non-contact injury, and the tests showed that there was bone damage as well as ligament damage.

“The mechanism itself suggested that it was a serious ACL problem.”

Liverpool’s defensive injury crisis deepens

Liverpool’s depth at right-back is currently non-existent, with summer signing Jeremie Frimpong also sidelined with a groin injury.

While Frimpong is expected back in a few weeks, his debut season at Anfield has already been marred by recurring fitness issues.

With Joe Gomez also battling a hip problem and the club failing to secure Lutsharel Geertruida on deadline day, the Reds are currently forced to use midfielders like Dominik Szoboszlai out of position.

Though Liverpool recently confirmed the £60 million signing of Jeremy Jacquet for the summer, he remains in France for the rest of the season.

This development may force Liverpool to jump back into the market for another specialist right-back this summer to ensure they aren’t left stranded during Bradley’s lengthy rehabilitation.

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Arsenal have officially booked their place at Wembley for the Carabao Cup final after a pulsating 2-1 victory over Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium, securing a 4-2 aggregate win.

While the night ended in celebration, the closing stages were defined by a moment of pure tactical tension that saw Mikel Arteta lose his composure just seconds before the decisive blow was landed.

Mikel Arteta was going ‘mad’ before Kai Havertz winner

As Chelsea pushed for a late equaliser to force extra time, the atmosphere in North London reached a fever pitch.

With Arsenal clinging to a narrow lead, the ball appeared to drift out of play during a frantic Chelsea buildup, yet play was allowed to continue.

Former England international Matt Upson, commentating for BBC Radio 5 Live, reported the frantic energy on the touchline.

“Well, 30 seconds ago Mikel Arteta was going mad that the referee had not blown his whistle.

“It has been a high-pressure last 10 minutes.” Arteta was seen frantically gesturing at the fourth official, convinced his side was being denied a blatant stoppage.

However, that frustration leftin an instant. Arsenal intercepted the resulting play, launching a lightning-fast counter-attack while the Chelsea defense was still over-committed in the final third.

Arsenal likely to face Man City in final Wembley showdown

The win means Arsenal will now face one of Manchester City or Newcastle in the final of the competition.

Their most likely opponents are going to be Pep Guardiola’s side who lead 2-0 on aggregate.

The return fixture is at Etihad where the home side are favourites to beat the defending champions and book the place in the final.

Mikel Arteta has a chance to win his first trophy for Arsenal in five years.

Man City have not been at their usual best this season. In contrast, Arsenal look their strongest self and are full of confidence at the moment, with Arteta doing an incredible job at the club.

Could the League Cup be the first of multiple trophies Arsenal will win this season?

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Tottenham’s defensive linchpin Cristian Romero is ‘going to leave’ the club in the upcoming June transfer window, according to Argentinian journalist and reliable South American insider Gaston Edul.

Taking to X, Edul revealed that the 27-year-old World Cup winner has already attracted concrete interest from La Liga giants and at least one other major European league.

“Cristian Cuti Romero has interest from La Liga in Spain and another league as well. He had already had interest in the previous transfer window and they came very close to making a formal offer. He is going to leave Tottenham in the next June transfer window.”

Cristian Cuti Romero tiene sondeos de de La Liga de España y otra liga más.
Ya los había tenido en el mercado de pases anterior y estuvieron a un paso de la oferta formal.
Va a salir de Tottenham en el próximo mercado de junio. pic.twitter.com/OWrjDpQgf5

— Gastón Edul (@gastonedul) February 3, 2026

Cristian Romero blasts ‘disgraceful’ Tottenham after deadline day

The news of a summer exit comes amidst a period of high tension between the player and the club.

Tottenham came back from two goals down to draw 2-2 against Manchester City on Sunday, despite playing with a depleted Spurs side struggling with an injury crisis.

The Tottenham captain waited for the transfer window to shut before launching a subtle attack on the Spurs hierarchy’s lack on transfer activity, labelling the squad shortage as ‘unbelievable but true and disgraceful’.

With only 11 senior players fit for the fixture, Romero’s public outburst suggests a deep-seated frustration with the club’s current direction under Thomas Frank.

Real Madrid want to sign Romero

This isn’t the first time Romero has voiced his discontent. He has voiced his frustration towards the Tottenham hierarchy in the past as well for their perceived lack of accountability and ambition.

The latest comments have further fuelled talks of an exit. Real Madrid have had a long standing interest in the World Cup winner and as per a recent report, Madrid are prepared with a mega offer for Romero.

Micky van de Ven also linked with Liverpool

To make matters worse for the North London side, Romero’s partner in central defense, Micky van de Ven, is also a target for rivals.

Reports suggest Liverpool are weighing up a move for the Dutch defender, as Arne Slot looks to bolster his backline.

Losing both starting center-backs in a single window would represent a catastrophic blow for Tottenham as they look to navigate an increasingly turbulent 2026 campaign.

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has sparked intense transfer speculation after refusing to dismiss the possibility of re-signing former Gunners star Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

Speaking during Monday’s pre-match press conference ahead of the Carabao Cup semi-final against Chelsea, Arteta admitted the club is “exploring every option” to bolster a depleted midfield.

Arsenal could re-sign Alex Oxlade Chamberlain

The 32-year-old free agent, who has been training with Arsenal since November to maintain his fitness, is legally available to sign outside the transfer window.

When asked directly if the Oxlade-Chamberlain could be handed a short-term contract, Arteta offered a cryptic but open-ended response.

He said: “We need to do everything that we possibly can to see if we have a player that is available. If we don’t, we keep what we have.”

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The transfer speculations comes as a direct result of a significant injury to Mikel Merino.

The Spanish international is set to undergo surgery on a fractured bone in his right foot sustained during the recent clash with Manchester United.

With the winter window now closed, the free-agent market, and specifically a player already integrated into the training environment, presents a rare lifeline.

Why Oxlade-Chamberlain could be a masterstroke signing for Arsenal

While injuries have plagued Oxlade-Chamberlain since his departure from Liverpool and a brief stint at Besiktas, his return would offer Arsenal much-needed tactical flexibility.

Having played nearly 200 games for the club between 2011 and 2017, his familiarity with the “Arsenal way” is a significant advantage.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain stats for Liverpool and Arsenal

Beyond sentiment, his experience in high-pressure title races and Champions League nights with Liverpool provides a experienced presence for a young squad in a crucial period.

With interest also brewing from Martin O’Neill’s Celtic, Arsenal may have to act quickly if they want to secure the midfielder as an emergency depth option for the season’s final four months.

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According to a prominent source on X, the representatives for Liverpool center-back Ibrahima Konate are scheduled to hold crunch talks with club officials this Friday.

The meeting comes at a critical juncture for the Reds, as the French international enters the final months of a contract that has become a source of mounting anxiety at Anfield.

Konate’s contract stand-off: Liverpool running out of time

The 26-year-old defender is currently playing on the same terms he signed upon arriving from RB Leipzig in 2021.

Despite being a key part of Liverpool’s defence over the years, negotiations over an extension have hit a public impasse.

Reports suggest Konate previously rejected an offer that would have tied him to the club until 2030, citing frustrations over a performance-heavy salary structure.

With his deal set to expire in June 2026, Konate is already legally permitted to negotiate pre-contract agreements with overseas clubs.

Real Madrid have shown strong interest in the Frenchman while PSG have also been credited with an interest in the player.

Liverpool cannot afford to repeat Trent Alexander-Arnold mistake

The urgency surrounding Friday’s meeting is fueled by the ghost of last summer.

Liverpool fans are still reeling from the departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who left for Real Madrid on a cut-price £10m deal just before his contract expired.

Losing a second world-class asset in successive years for free would be a significant blow to Sporting Director Richard Hughes’ reputation.

But there is a strong possibility that Konate could be on his way out and that would explain the club’s decision to go all in for another French centre-back.

Liverpool’s £60 million signing of Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes is viewed by many as a direct replacement for Konate, suggesting that the club are preparing for a future without the ‘world-class’ centre-back.

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