Manchester City superstar Erling Haaland took to social media to praise Dominik Szoboszlai following the Hungarian’s stunning free-kick during the dramatic comeback at Anfield on Sunday night.
Despite the intense rivalry on the pitch, Haaland was quick to acknowledge the sheer quality displayed by his former teammate in a match that could prove pivotal in the Premier League title race.
Erling Haaland praises Dominik Szoboszlai for his free-kick
Following the final whistle of the pulsating encounter, Haaland shared a post on Snapchat that quickly went viral.
The Norwegian striker uploaded a still photo from the Liverpool free-kick during the match, with a seven-word message for Szoboszlai.
Haaland captioned the image with a playful seven-word message: “Domi what a goal smile a bit.”
Erling Haaland praises Dominic Szoboszlai’s goal (Screenshot via Reddit)
Haaland and Szoboszlai are good friends from time at RB Salzburg
The message shows a bond between the two players that predates their time in England.
Haaland and Szoboszlai were close friends during their time at RB Salzburg, where they formed a lethal partnership that terrorized the Austrian Bundesliga and announced their talents to the world in the Champions League.
The close friendship was also seen during the game as the Hungarian midfielder tried to get into Haaland’s head as he stood up to take the winning penalty.
Haaland later revealed what he told Szoboszlai during the friendly exchange. He said: “This is the first time I don’t want to speak with you.
Their friendship has remained intact despite playing for the two biggest rivals in English football.
While they are fierce competitors for 90 minutes, their mutual respect is well-documented, with both players frequently speaking highly of each other’s development since leaving Austria.
Manchester City are reportedly accelerating their summer transfer plans by targeting Everton midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, with an opening offer already placed on the table.
According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, City have proposed a bid worth around £35 million, although Everton are holding firm for a fee closer to £40 million before considering a sale.
Dewsbury-Hall’s rapid rise since arriving on Merseyside has been impressive.
Everton moved decisively to secure his signature in a £25 million deal, believing his energy, technical quality, and box-to-box intelligence could revitalise their midfield.
Their decision has been jusitified as the English midfielder has been a huge success under manager David Moyes.
Dewsbury-Hall has reignited his career at Everton
Under Moyes, Dewsbury-Hall has rediscovered the form that once made him such a key figure at Leicester City.
His ability to press aggressively, carry the ball through midfield, and contribute in the final third has added balance to Everton’s side.
He showed his growing influence with another assured display in Everton’s recent 2-1 victory over Fulham, once again dictating tempo and driving the team forward.
Those performances have not gone unnoticed. Man City’s recruitment team see Dewsbury-Hall as a player capable of fitting seamlessly into Pep Guardiola’s midfield rotation, offering versatility across multiple roles.
Man City interest could be a huge blow for the Toffees
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall of Everton celebrates (Photo by James Fearn/Getty Images)
From Everton’s perspective, interest from City is bad news. The club’s ambitions under Moyes are firmly geared toward long-term stability and progression, and losing a key midfielder so soon after his arrival would be a significant setback on the pitch.
However, financially, the situation makes sense for Everton. They are understood to be open to discussions if their £40 million valuation is met, a figure that would represent a notable profit within a year of signing the player.
City are expected to remain patient rather than force a deal prematurely. Their willingness to open talks early signals genuine intent, but they are unlikely to be drawn into bidding war unless Dewsbury-Hall is deemed essential to their long-term plans.
Montepulciano is one of the most welcoming cities in the world. This beautiful Tuscan hillside town is full of charm, rich history, and Renaissance architecture. Just a quick flight from the UK, it is a great place to visit to get some culture, and is also a great place to go to retreat and relax.
A Taste of Renaissance Italy
Montepulciano’s historical significance is intertwined with the Renaissance period, earning it the nickname “Pearl of the Cinquecento.” The town’s architectural design and monuments reflect the period’s grandeur. As you wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter buildings that stand as testaments to the past, such as the impressive Duomo. This cathedral, built between the 16th and 17th centuries, dominates the town’s skyline with its striking façade and majestic presence.
In addition to the Duomo, the city hall, crafted by renowned Renaissance architects from Florence, is another highlight of Montepulciano’s architectural landscape. Both these iconic structures are integral to the town’s character and offer visitors a glimpse into Italy’s artistic and cultural heritage.
Pedestrian-Friendly Town with a Welcoming Atmosphere
Montepulciano is designed with the traveler in mind. The town’s streets are largely pedestrian-friendly, and most areas are car-free zones. This makes it an ideal destination for leisurely strolls. The main street stretches just under a mile, lined with charming independent shops, cafes, and eateries. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the town’s vibrant atmosphere, where locals greet visitors with warmth and hospitality.
For those interested in shopping, Montepulciano offers unique boutiques featuring local crafts and artisanal products. Whether you’re after a hand-crafted leather wallet or a bottle of the region’s renowned wine, the town provides a more personal shopping experience.
Wine Heritage: A Drink of Tuscany
No visit to Montepulciano would be complete without indulging in its legendary wine culture. The town is famous for producing Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, a red wine with a rich, velvety texture and a deep history. This wine, which has been crafted for centuries, holds a prestigious place in Italian gastronomy. Visitors can tour local wineries and taste the award-winning wines that have earned Montepulciano its spot on the global map of wine regions.
Wine lovers will also enjoy the various wine cellars and tasting rooms dotted throughout the town. These establishments not only offer tastings but often provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the winemaking process, offering an immersive experience in Tuscan viticulture.
A Gateway to Tuscan Beauty
Montepulciano’s location within Tuscany means that visitors have easy access to the breathtaking countryside. The town is perched on a hill, providing stunning views of the surrounding vineyards, olive groves, and rolling hills. The natural beauty of the area invites visitors to explore on foot or by bike, while the gentle climate ensures a pleasant experience year-round.
The scenic landscape is perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re sipping wine on a terrace overlooking the vineyards or simply enjoying a quiet walk through the town’s charming streets, Montepulciano offers a peaceful haven for all who visit.
Dining and Local Cuisine
Italian cuisine is world-renowned, and Montepulciano’s eateries offer a fantastic taste of Tuscany. From casual trattorias to upscale dining experiences, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy delicious meals. The town is known for its rich pasta dishes, fresh local produce, and savory meats. Olive oil, truffles, and locally grown vegetables are staples in many dishes.
For a truly Tuscan experience, try the local specialty, pici pasta, paired with a glass of Vino Nobile. Many of the restaurants in Montepulciano pride themselves on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, giving you an authentic taste of the region’s culinary delights.
How to Get There
Montepulciano is easily accessible from the UK, with a flight time of just around three hours to Florence or Pisa. From either of these airports, it’s a short drive to Montepulciano. If you’re looking to explore more of Tuscany, Montepulciano is well connected by train, making it easy to visit nearby cities like Siena and Florence.
When to Visit Montepulciano
The best time to visit Montepulciano is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the town isn’t as crowded. During these months, visitors can fully enjoy the town’s charm without the influx of peak-season tourists. However, the town has its own appeal throughout the year, from the bustling summer months to the quiet winter season.
Conclusion: A Must-Visit for Travelers
With its breathtaking Renaissance architecture, easily navigable streets, top-tier wines, and overall friendly vibes, Montepulciano is a top-tier choice for any traveller. If you love history, or wine or just the overall beauty of Tuscany, the charming town of Montepulciano has something for you. If you want a time travel vacation Montepulciano is the place for you.
Starlux Airlines is expanding its fleet with new Airbus A350-1000 aircraft which deliver better capacity and premium travel services. This move aligns with the airline’s broader strategy to strengthen its premium-heavy services, particularly catering to passengers seeking more business class seats. The airline known for its modern fleet and exceptional service will expand its international operations while increasing its presence in the United States.
The new A350-1000, which made its debut at the Singapore Airshow, increases Starlux’s business class capacity by 50 percent, marking a significant upgrade over its previous Airbus A350-900 variant. The aircraft’s 350-seat configuration supports the airline’s expansion into high-demand markets, making it a game-changer in the competitive airline industry.
Key Differences in A350-1000 and A350-900 Configuration
Starlux’s decision to enhance its fleet with the A350-1000 comes with significant changes in its seating arrangements, particularly in the business class cabin. The aircraft will have a total capacity of 350 seats, up from 306 on the smaller A350-900, with the biggest change being a 66% increase in business class seating.
Here’s a breakdown of the two variants:
Variant
Economy Capacity
Premium Economy Capacity
Business Capacity
First Class Capacity
Total Capacity
A350-900
240
36
26
4
306
A350-1000
270
36
40
4
350
Capacity Change
+12.5 percent
0 percent
+66.67 percent
0 percent
+14.38 percent
The expansion in business class is a strategic move by Starlux, responding to increasing demand for premium services in its existing and future markets, including the US and Europe. This new aircraft is expected to strengthen its competitive edge, especially as the airline continues to expand its route network.
US Market Expansion and Future Plans
Starlux has been making inroads into the US market, with destinations such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle already part of its network. The new A350-1000 will help the airline enhance its presence in these markets, especially as it continues to work on codeshare agreements with Alaska Airlines and interline partnerships with American Airlines. These partnerships allow Starlux passengers to connect to 20 US destinations, with plans to add more routes in the coming years.
With five more A350-1000 aircraft expected this year, Starlux’s capacity and connectivity will increase substantially. This will position the airline as a key player in the competitive trans-Pacific route network, catering to both premium and economy class travelers.
Expanding Presence in Europe and Other Regions
Beyond the US, Starlux is also expanding its footprint in Europe. The airline recently announced its first European destination: Prague, marking an exciting chapter for the airline as it ventures into new international markets. The A350-1000’s increased range and capacity will play a pivotal role in connecting Taiwan to key European cities, with Prague expected to be the first of many.
The strategic placement of the A350-1000 on long-haul routes highlights the airline’s focus on catering to premium passengers while simultaneously boosting its overall capacity in a sustainable manner.
Starlux’s Fleet and Future Aircraft Orders
Starlux has been on an impressive growth trajectory, with plans to expand its fleet by 126% in the next few years. The airline already operates a fleet of A321neos for short-haul flights and A330-900s for medium-haul routes. The delivery of the A350-1000 aircraft, however, marks a new phase in Starlux’s expansion strategy, with the airline eventually planning to operate all three variants of the A350 family: the A350-900, A350-1000, and the A350 freighter.
The upcoming deliveries include not just passenger aircraft but also freighters, with Starlux aiming to be one of the few carriers to operate the full A350 family. This fleet diversification will allow the airline to meet growing demands in both passenger travel and cargo operations.
A Strong Future for Starlux Airlines
As Starlux Airlines continues to expand its fleet and network, the arrival of the A350-1000 offers a promising outlook for its future. With its 50 percent boost in business class capacity, the airline is positioning itself as a leader in premium travel, particularly for long-haul routes to the US and Europe. As Starlux prepares to receive more aircraft this year, its growing network and enhanced services are set to make it one of the key players in the global airline industry.
Starlux Airlines, which operates modern aircraft and focuses on customer service, is expanding its service area while creating a new standard of high-end travel for its international customers.
VAR’s decision to chalk off a late Manchester City goal and send Dominik Szoboszlai off has been widely criticised, with critics claiming that VAR is killing the fun in the game.
What happened: Goal chalked off and Dominic Szoboszlai sent off
The incident occurred in the 100th minute. With Liverpool chasing an equaliser, goalkeeper Alisson Becker had gone up for a corner, leaving the Reds’ goal completely unguarded.
City cleared the danger, and substitute Rayan Cherki launched a counter-attack, striking the ball towards the empty net from the halfway line.
As the ball rolled towards the goal, goal-scorer Dominik Szoboszlai and Erling Haaland engaged in a desperate foot race to the line. Szoboszlai tugged at Haaland’s shirt to slow him down, and the Norwegian striker retaliated by pulling back.
The ball eventually crossed the line, seemingly sealing a 3-1 win for City.
However, VAR intervened. Instead of playing the advantage and allowing the goal to stand, referee Craig Pawson was instructed to disallow the strike.
He brought play back to the initial foul and showed Szoboszlai a straight red card for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity, wiping the goal off the scoreboard in favour of a free-kick.
(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Pep Guardiola reacts to controversial VAR decision
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola was left scratching his head at the strict application of the rules over common sense.
Speaking after the match, he expressed his frustration that the game’s natural conclusion was interrupted by technology.
Pep Guardiola on the dramatic ending of the match (via BBC Sport): “Come on referee, give goal and go home!”
Strong reaction against VAR decision
The decision has sparked fury among pundits and fans alike, who feel the rigid application of the laws ruined a spectacular moment.
Gary Neville on Sky Sports (via BBC Sport): “You live to watch games like this. I am a fan of VAR but it has just killed the joy. The reason fans watch football matches is for entertainment and for moments like that. Talk about a killjoy. They have just killed one of the great moments of the season.”
Fans also reacted on social media
One wrote:
“What a shocking decision at the end of Liverpool game didn’t deserve a red card just let the goal stand. Process, process is killing the game.”
Another said:
“And that is why VAR is killing the game, you’ve taken away a glorious moment to make sure you got a decision “technically” correct. Absolutely pointless and a poor end to a great second half of football.”
Moments like this are when VAR rightly gets criticised.
Anfield witnessed one of the undisputed games of the season this Sunday, as Manchester City clawed their way back from a goal down to snatch a dramatic 2-1 victory, ending with a red card, a disallowed goal, and touchline chaos.
The clash between the title rivals lived up to every bit of the hype, delivering a second half of relentless drama.
It looked as if Liverpool had struck a decisive blow in the title race, but a late collapse and a controversial VAR intervention ensured the points went back to Manchester.
Szoboszlai free-kick opened the scoring for the Liverpool
After a tense first hour, the deadlock was broken in spectacular fashion in the 74th minute. Liverpool won a free-kick 25 yards out, and Dominik Szoboszlai stepped up to produce a moment of magic.
It was a strike worthy of winning any game, and for ten minutes, it seemed certain to be the difference maker.
Alisson Blunder resulted in Erling Haaland winner from the spot
City equalised against the run of play through Bernardo Silva in the 84th minute, but the true turning point came in stoppage time.
With the game poised at 1-1, Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker suffered a catastrophic rush of blood.
Racing off his line to close down Matheus Nunes, the Brazilian mistimed his slide completely, wiping out the City midfielder in the box.
The referee pointed straight to the spot, and Erling Haaland stepped up to silence Anfield, burying the penalty in the bottom corner to make it 2-1 in the 93rd minute.
Donnarumma incredible save in stoppage time to deny Mac Allister
Liverpool threw everything forward in search of an equalizer, and they nearly found it deep into added time.
A clearance fell to Alexis Mac Allister on the edge of the box, who struck a venomous volley destined for the top corner.
However, Donnarumma produced a world-class save, flying to his right to claw the ball away.
It was a match-winning intervention that preserved City’s slender lead amidst the dying embers of the game.
If it was David Raya that made this type of Gianluigi Donnarumma's save against Liverpool tonight. We wouldn't hear the end of it.
Controversial VAR drama: Cherki’s goal chalked off to get Szoboszlai sent off
The chaos peaked in the 100th minute. With Alisson up for a Liverpool corner, City broke on the counter.
Substitute Rayan Cherki raced clear and rolled the ball into the empty net for what appeared to be City’s third goal.
However, VAR intervened in bizarre fashion. Replays showed Szoboszlai pulling Erling Haaland back in the build-up as they chased the ball, who then pulled Szoboszlai to deny him from clearing from the goal line.
Dominik Szoboszlai has just scored an outrageous free-kick to give Liverpool a deserving lead at Anfield against Manchester City.
Arne Slot’s side has fully dominated the second half and done everything but put the ball in the back of the net.
But when Liverpool won a free-kick, it was the Hungarian midfielder who stepped up take it.
And just as he has so many times this season, Szoboszlai did not disappoint. Full of confidence, the Liverpool star unleashed a rocket of a strike that flew into the top right corner.
Donnarumma could not do anything about it he stood there watching the ball fly past him into the back of the net.
This moment of magic comes as no surprise to the Anfield faithful, who have watched Szoboszlai evolve into one of the deadliest dead-ball specialists in Europe this season.
He has already built a highlight reel of set-piece stunners during the 2025/26 campaign.
Fans will instantly recall his similar effort against Arsenal back in August, where he struck a magnificent winner past David Raya to secure a vital 1-0 victory.
He repeated the feat in the Champions League in January, netting a crucial free-kick against Marseille and curled one against Bournemouth.
With Trent no more at Anfield, Szoboszlai has fully assumed the mantle of Liverpool’s primary set-piece taker, proving time and again that he can decide the biggest matches with a single swing of his right boot.
(Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Szoboszlai has been Liverpool’s best player this season
While his goals steal the headlines, Szoboszlai’s influence goes far beyond free-kicks.
The 25-year-old has arguably been the first name on Arne Slot’s team sheet, filling in everywhere from attacking midfield to right-back during an injury crisis earlier in the campaign.
His relentless pressing, creativity, and leadership have driven Liverpool’s title charge. Slot has frequently praised the midfielder’s “incredible” engine and mentality, citing him as the embodiment of the high-intensity style he wants to play.
Whether winning the ball back deep in his own half or firing rockets into the top corner, Szoboszlai is currently playing the football of his life.
Liverpool fans made their feelings crystal clear at Anfield today, greeting Marc Guehi with a chorus of boos as his name was announced in the Manchester City starting lineup.
The hostile reception, as reported by James Pearce, marked Guehi’s first visit to Merseyside since his high-profile transfer saga, with the Anfield faithful evidently holding a grudge against the defender who slipped through their fingers.
The defender had been keen on the switch, but the collapse of the deal was ultimately out of his hands, a detail seemingly forgotten by the home crowd today.
Crucially, the financial package offered by the champions was something Liverpool were reportedly unwilling to match.
Reports indicate City handed Guehi a staggering wage packet, rumoured to be upwards of £200,000 per week, which would have shattered Liverpool’s strict wage structure for a new signing.
While Liverpool hesitated, City paid up, securing one of the league’s best defenders for a bargain transfer fee.
Liverpool should direct anger towards the board
While the boos for Guehi add theatre to the spectacle, the reality is that the player is not the villain of this piece. He did not reject Liverpool in the summer; the move was taken away from him.
When January arrived, he joined the club that showed the most ambition and financial commitment to secure his signature.
If the Anfield crowd is looking for someone to blame for seeing Guehi in sky blue today, they might do better to turn their ire toward the directors’ box.
The failure to get the deal over the line in the summer, followed by a refusal to compete financially in the winter, lies squarely with the Liverpool board, not the player who simply moved on when the Reds stood still.
According to Teamtalk, Real Madrid are ready to make a serious push to sign Rodri from Manchester City this summer. The hierarchy of the Spanish giant is becoming extremely worried about the situation in the dressing room, and club president Florentino Perez is determined to make changes he feels are essential for stability to return. […]
According to Teamtalk, Real Madrid are ready to make a serious push to sign Rodri from Manchester City this summer. The hierarchy of the Spanish giant is becoming extremely worried about the situation in the dressing room, and club president Florentino Perez is determined to make changes he feels are essential for stability to return. […]
According to Teamtalk, Real Madrid are ready to make a serious push to sign Rodri from Manchester City this summer. The hierarchy of the Spanish giant is becoming extremely worried about the situation in the dressing room, and club president Florentino Perez is determined to make changes he feels are essential for stability to return. […]
Real Madrid are reportedly seriously interested in a potential transfer move for Manchester City midfielder Rodri as they look for more leadership and experience.
The Spanish giants have lost influential figures like Luka Modric and Toni Kroos in the last couple of years, and their current squad arguably seems like it’s struggling without those two legendary figures.
Modric and Kroos were both great players but also hugely experienced in winning the biggest games and trophies at the highest level, which is something Rodri could also provide.
According to TEAMtalk, Real Madrid are intensifying their interest in poaching Rodri from City, with the report also noting that the player himself has previously spoken about being open to a move to the Bernabeu.
Could Rodri leave Manchester City for a transfer to Real Madrid?
Rodri in action for Manchester City against Brighton (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
While it makes sense that someone of Rodri’s profile would be tempting for Real, it’s perhaps hard to see City being prepared to risk the sale.
Pep Guardiola’s side have similarly lost some experienced names in recent times, such as Kevin De Bruyne, Ilkay Gundogan, and Kyle Walker.
Rodri remains a key player and is performing well again after a lengthy injury, so they’ll surely want to have him around for a while longer.
At the same time, perhaps Rodri’s age and recent fitness record could mean it’s a wise move to cash in while they still can.
This is not the only big name Premier League midfielder we’ve seen linked with Madrid in recent times.
We’ve been informed of Los Blancos looking at Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez, while a report from AS has also mentioned possible interest in the likes of Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister and Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace.
It will be interesting to see who ends up being the priority, but in this context it certainly makes sense that Rodri would also be under consideration.
Verdict: Home win Best odds: 13/10 Bookmaker: Olympusbet Backed noisily by both the red half of Merseyside and the red half of North London, Liverpool welcome Manchester City to Anfield on Sunday for one of the Premier League’s showcase fixtures. The hosts begin gameweek 25 sitting four places and eight points behind Pep Guardiola’s side, […]
The Premier League’s 2025-29 deal was worth £6.7 billion. Have the vast sums paid to every top-flight team made the league more competitive, and how have they spent so far?
Summer 2025 spending
There wasn’t a clear pattern of mid-table clubs spending more, relative to the traditional bigger sides.
Fulham spent €44.5 million, a relative pittance in Premier League money. Kevin from Shakhtar was their biggest buy for €40m.
Crystal Palace won the FA Cup and finished one place behind Fulham in 12th. They spent €55.3m, with most of that going on Yeremy Pino.
Bournemouth did spend €138.1m, with Bafode Diakite their most expensive signing at €35m. Their €15m fee for Veljko Milosavljevic, a teenage centre back bought with future seasons in mind, highlighted how much the Premier League has grown. (It was only six seasons ago that Manchester United, who were aiming for a title, signed Dan James for a similar fee to compete for a position in the starting eleven. That same season, Newcastle signed Allan Saint-Maximin for a similar amount.)
These new players are playing to bigger audiences than ever, in large part because the UK is showing even more games on TV. Sky Sports and TNT Sports share an average seven games per weekend, with a typical gameweek having just three traditional 3pm kickoffs. These Saturday 3pm games are the only ones not allowed to be shown on domestic TV, with the UK the last country in Europe still applying the “3pm blackout”.
This law does not apply to fans abroad in countries like the United States, where football fans regularly watch 3pm kickoffs on channels like NBC. If they travel to the UK, though, they have to use a tool likeExpressVPN to access their subscriptions.
The Premier League and EFL are reportedly in talks to end the3pm blackout. The contracts do not expire until 2029 so any changes would likely take place from the 2029-30 season. The currentPremier League rights is clouded in uncertainty as Netflix attempts to buy Warner Bros. Pictures, Television, and Games, along with DC Studios, HBO, and TNT Sports. The latter being part of Warner Bros Discovery’s umbrella of companies means that if the Netflix sale were to go through, Premier League fans could be watching games on Netflix.
Top six
Of the bigger clubs, Liverpool were the summer’s biggest spenders. €482.9m went on stars including Alexander Isak (€145m), Florian Wirtz (€125m), and Hugo Ekitike (€95m). They spent €46.9m on Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, which meant the latter club’s net spend wasn’t quite as dramatic as it would have been (“only” €100.31m).
Chelsea had a typically active window, spending €339.15m and bringing in €332.25m. Joao Pedro, yet another purchase from Brighton and Hove Albion, was their biggest buy at €63.7m.
Arsenal finished second last season and were the summer’s next biggest spenders, with Martin Zubimendi (€70m), Eberechi Eze (€69.3m), Viktor Gyokeres (€66.9m), Noni Madueke (€56m), Christhian Mosquera (€15m), and Christian Norgaard (€11.6m) all arriving in the same window.
Aston Villa finished 6th last season but made a summer profit of €24.65m, with their only significant signing being Evan Guessand from Nice (€30m). They sold Jacob Ramsey to Newcastle for €45m.
Manchester United, a traditional “big six” team, finished 15th last season and attempted to make amends with a €250.7m outlay. It wasn’t enough for Ruben Amorim to keep his job but interim coach Michael Carrick may benefit from having Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbuemo, and Matheus Cunha to choose from, each costing over €70m.
Is the Premier League more competitive?
Spending has not always correlated with results in the Premier League, and this season is similar. Bournemouth started well but then dramatically dropped off and have looked relegation candidates for much of the season. Arsenal may be happiest with how their new signings have paid off: Zubimendi has made a strong midfield even better, Eze has given them more options and still has room to grow at 27 years old, and while Gyokeres (also 27) hasn’t had the smoothest of starts, Mikel Arteta has repeatedly said the striker will find his feet.
Despite Amorim’s sacking, United look like they could climb back to the top five and potentially Champions League qualification this season. While it wouldn’t be quite as romantic as Fulham or Bournemouth competing with Real Madrid and co, it would suggest that the TV money helps teams stay competitive even after a huge underperformance.
The 23-year-old hasn’t played much since joining Man City in the summer, and one imagines his situation might attract a lot of interest if it doesn’t change soon.
Leeds manager Daniel Farke is keen to strengthen in goal, and it seems Trafford is a name on the club’s radar, according to TEAMtalk.
The report also names Tottenham and Aston Villa as admirers of the England Under-21 international, so this might not be an easy race for Leeds to win.
James Trafford praised as “incredible” by Pep Guardiola, but could he leave Man City?
Trafford looked like a top young talent at former club Burnley, and he probably thought he was moving to the Etihad Stadium to become City’s number one.
Pep Guardiola described Trafford as “incredible”, as per BBC Sport, but actions speak louder than words and it’s clearly Gianluigi Donnarumma who’s the number one for City.
James Trafford in action for Manchester City (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)
The Italy international ended up joining later in the summer, but he’s clearly the bigger name and more proven performer at this level, so that doesn’t bode well for Trafford.
Where should James Trafford move to if he leaves City?
Trafford will perhaps regret his move to City, so he needs to choose his next club very carefully in order to ensure he will end up playing regularly.
Leeds seems a fairly safe bet from that point of view, as he’d surely be a clear upgrade on the likes of Karl Darlow and Illan Meslier.
Tottenham would probably also make Trafford their number one after unconvincing performances from Guglielmo Vicario since he joined.
Villa, meanwhile, currently have Emiliano Martinez as their number one, so that might be a trickier one for Trafford, unless of course the Midlands outfit end up selling the Argentine this summer.
When Liverpool secured the signature of Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen last summer, the reaction around English football was immediate. You could almost sense the collective jolt from Premier League rivals. One of the world’s brightest young footballers was joining a squad that had already cruised to the 2024‑25 title. Even with a £100 million […]
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
(Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
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
Liverpool Predicted XI vs Man City via Create Formation
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.
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.
(Photo by Jon Hobley/MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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.
Position
Club
Played
Points
19
Norwich City
30
33
20
Leicester City
30
32*
21
West Brom
30
32
22
Blackburn Rovers
29
29
*> 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
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.
However, the Daily Mirror now report that this request has been rejected by the EFL, leaving City without an important player for the March 22nd clash against the Gunners.
Pep Guardiola on Marc Guehi playing the Carabao Cup final
Speaking after the semi-final victory over Newcastle United last night, Guardiola made it clear he could not understand why Guehi was not allowed to play.
“Hopefully we can convince the Carabao Cup that Marc can play the final. I don’t understand why he cannot play the final.
“You buy a player for a lot of money and he is not able to play for a rule I don’t understand. Hopefully they can change it.”
Marc Guehi in action for Man City vs Tottenham (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
He added: “I said to the club, they have to ask, definitely. I don’t understand the reason why he cannot play in the final in March, when I have been here for a long time.
“The rules to buy a player depends on Fifa, Uefa, the Premier League who say, OK the transfer window is open, when you buy a player you have to play, no? It’s logic. Of course we are going to try to ask [for] him to play. Pure logic.”
Early boost for Arsenal in Carabao Cup final
Even if it was never particularly likely that Guehi would be allowed to play, this is a bit of a boost for Arsenal as they prepare to take on City at Wembley next month.
Mikel Arteta’s side are desperate to end their six-year wait for a trophy, and it won’t be easy defeating this City side, even if they’ve not been at their best this season.
Any boost they can get will be welcome, with City suffering some injuries in defence in recent times that could prove costly in a big game like this.
That’s why Guehi was signed from Crystal Palace this January, and Guardiola will no doubt be furious that he can’t use the England international in what is sure to be one of his team’s most important games all season.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has made it clear that the club will try to ask to get Marc Guehi available for the Carabao Cup final against Arsenal.
The England international actually scored against Arsenal in Palace’s quarter-final defeat at the Emirates Stadium in December, and he’ll now be a key player for Guardiola’s side after being brought in to help with the club’s injury crisis.
City recently lost Josko Gvardiol to a long-term injury, while Ruben Dias has also missed a lot of games, so it’s not surprising to see Guardiola now pushing to have Guehi available to him for the Carabao Cup final.
Pep Guardiola on pushing to get Marc Guehi eligible to play vs Arsenal
Speaking after last night’s semi-final second leg victory over Newcastle, Guardiola suggested the club will speak to the relevant authorities about getting them to change the rules.
Marc Guehi in action for Manchester City (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
As quoted by BBC Sport, the Spanish tactician said: “Hopefully we can convince the Carabao Cup that Marc can play the final. I don’t understand why he cannot play the final.
“You buy a player for a lot of money and he is not able to play for a rule I don’t understand. Hopefully they can change it.”
He added: “I said to the club, they have to ask, definitely. I don’t understand the reason why he cannot play in the final in March, when I have been here for a long time.
“The rules to buy a player depends on Fifa, Uefa, the Premier League who say, OK the transfer window is open, when you buy a player you have to play, no? It’s logic. Of course we are going to try to ask [for] him to play. Pure logic.
Asked what answer he expected, Guardiola responded: “No. But we will try.”
The January transfer window of 2026 did not explode with drama in the way supporters have come to expect from Europe’s elite football leagues. Instead, it unfolded with a quieter, more calculated tone — one that revealed not only the financial realities of modern football but also strategic shifts across the Premier League, La Liga, […]
The January transfer window of 2026 did not explode with drama in the way supporters have come to expect from Europe’s elite football leagues. Instead, it unfolded with a quieter, more calculated tone — one that revealed not only the financial realities of modern football but also strategic shifts across the Premier League, La Liga, […]
Sandro Tonali is once again emerging as a major talking point ahead of the summer transfer window, with several of the Premier League’s biggest clubs reportedly keeping a close watch on the Newcastle United midfielder’s situation.
According to The Sun, Arsenal, Manchester City, and Chelsea have all registered an interest in the Italy international, showing his growing reputation at the top level.
Tonali, 25, has steadily reasserted his value at Newcastle United, becoming a pillar of their midfield along with Bruno Guimaraes.
His performances have not gone unnoticed, particularly by Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, who is believed to be a long-time admirer.
Arsenal admire Newcastle midfielder Tonali
Reports suggest Arteta views Tonali as an ideal partner for Declan Rice, with the pair potentially forming a balanced and dynamic midfield core capable of competing at the highest level.
Arsenal were even alerted to the possibility of a move on Deadline Day, though the enquiry failed to develop into anything concrete.
Pep Guardiola is understood to be a strong admirer of Tonali’s game intelligence and positional discipline and along with his teammate Tino Livramento, the Spanish manager is keen on bringing the Newcastle duo to the Etihad Stadium.
Sandro Tonali of Newcastle in action vs Man United (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Chelsea, meanwhile, are taking a more cautious approach. The Stamford Bridge club are monitoring Tonali’s situation as part of their midfield review but have yet to make any decisive moves.
Despite the mounting interest, Newcastle remain relaxed. Tonali is viewed as a central figure in the club’s long-term project, and there is no desire to part with him unless an extraordinary offer is presented.
A report from Fichajes has claimed that the Magpies have set an asking price of €80 million for the Italian midfielder.
Football pundit Paul Scholes has described the Newcastle United midfielder as a “brilliant” player.
The transfer window is now closed, so we’ve rounded up every single done deal by all 20 Premier League clubs over the last month.
It wasn’t the most memorable January transfer window, but read on for every done deal as there were some major deals done by the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal and Tottenham.
For City, it was a pretty exciting window as Pep Guardiola moved to bring in Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth after his terrific form there in the last year and a half or so.
Meanwhile, Marc Guehi also made the move to the Etihad Stadium to fill the void left by the injured Josko Gvardiol, meaning that long-running saga came to an end a little earlier than expected, with his Crystal Palace contract only a few months away from expiring anyway.
For Arsenal, it was mostly a window of exits, as Ethan Nwaneri joined Marseille on loan, while Oleksandr Zinchenko left for a permanent move to Ajax.
Elsewhere, Conor Gallagher was a big name arrival back to the Premier League, with the former Chelsea midfielder leaving Atletico Madrid after a year and a half to join Tottenham.
Read on for our full list of done deals from this transfer window…
Arsenal
IN
None
OUT
Osman Kamara – Blackburn, undisclosed
Oleksandr Zinchenko – Ajax, undisclosed
Louie Copley – Crawley, loan
Ethan Nwaneri – Marseille, loan
Maldini Kacurri – Grimsby, loan
Aston Villa
Tammy Abraham in action for Aston Villa (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)
IN
Tammy Abraham – Besiktas, £18.2m
Alysson – Gremio, £10m
Brian Madjo – Metz, undisclosed
Leon Bailey – Roma, loan recall
Douglas Luiz – Juventus, loan
OUT
Louie Barry – Stockport, loan
Samuel Iling-Junior, Pisa, loan
Ben Broggio – Falkirk, loan
Jamaldeen Jimoh-Aloba – West Brom, loan
Evann Guessand – Crystal Palace, loan
Aidan Borland – Swindon, loan
Sil Swinkels – Chesterfield, loan
Donyell Malen – Roma, loan with £21.6m obligation to buy
Only four points separate Arsenal from Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table with 15 rounds left to play this season, and Ilkay Gundogan, who played a total of 358 matches over two spells for City, hopes Pep Guardiola’s side will manage to overtake the Gunners in the title race. ‘I hope […]
Verdict: Both teams to score Best odds: 3/4 Bookmaker: ZetBet Manchester City face a decisive Champions League league‑phase fixture on Wednesday as they welcome Galatasaray to the Etihad Stadium. City enter the final round in 11th place—level on points with several rivals but outside the top eight on goal difference—while Galatasaray sit 17th, narrowly above […]
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