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Today — 18 March 2026Main stream

“I was told this club was different” – Arne Slot appears to take a dig at Liverpool fans after boos against Spurs

18 March 2026 at 00:08

Arne Slot appears to have questioned the level of unconditional support from Liverpool fans after boos rang out around Anfield following a disappointing 1-1 draw against relegation-threatened Tottenham.

The result, which saw Spurs snatch a point through a 90th-minute Richarlison equaliser, has left the defending champions’ European hopes in serious jeopardy.

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Ahead of Wednesday’s must-win Champions League second leg against Galatasaray, Slot addressed the audible frustration from the stands, but his comments have sparked further debate about his relationship with the fanbase.

Arne Slot questions Liverpool fans unconditional support

Addressing the media on Tuesday, Slot admitted he was surprised by the shifting atmosphere at the club.

The Dutchman then appeared to challenge the long-held narrative of Anfield’s unwavering loyalty to its managers.

He said:

“It’s never nice they are frustrated, as fans aren’t frustrated after you win. You are frustrated and disappointed when you don’t win.”

“When I came here, I was told this club was different and the fans will support the manager for a long time. If it’s true [the fans are restless], I don’t feel it at all. I must have done a lot of things wrong then, that’s never a nice feeling to have!”

Slot’s recent comments shows growing disconnect

Slot’s recent interviews point towards a growing disconnect with the club and the supporters.

While he delivered the Premier League title in his debut season, the goodwill he built up appears to be eroding quickly.

Patience had already begun to wear thin following his earlier claim that Liverpool “have only won the league twice in 30 years”, a comment intended to manage expectations, but one that many felt undermined the club’s stature.

Before the Qarabag clash, Slot also suggested that last season’s title win was aided by Liverpool’s early Champions League exit against PSG, which reduced fixture congestion compared to their rivals.

He even appeared to take a subtle swipe at Jurgen Klopp, downplaying some of Liverpool’s recent European runs prior to his arrival.

His latest comments questioning the unconditional support of Liverpool fans only add to a growing list of remarks that risk further alienating the Anfield faithful.

With The Athletic reporting that Xabi Alonso is already being considered as a “top candidate” should the hierarchy decide to make a change, Slot’s defensive tone in press conferences is being viewed by some as a sign of a manager feeling the walls close in.

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Yesterday — 17 March 2026Main stream

Report: Manchester United plan major clear-out with four players set to leave

17 March 2026 at 22:46

Manchester United could let up to four goalkeepers leave this summer as the club prepares for a significant overhaul of their defensive department.

According to The Sun, the Red Devils are planning to clear out several high-profile names to balance their squad and meet Premier League profitability and sustainability rules.

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At the heart of the exit list is Andre Onana, who is currently on a season-long loan at Turkish side Trabzonspor.

United reportedly plan to sell the 29-year-old permanently when he returns in July. Having joined for a hefty fee in 2023, the club is said to require at least £18.88 million for the Cameroonian to avoid recording a loss on their books.

For Manchester United goalkeepers could leave this summer

Onana is not the only shot-stopper facing an uncertain future. The report claims that Altay Bayindir will also be sold following a poor six-game run earlier this season.

The Turkish international has struggled to settle at Old Trafford, and a return to his homeland is on the cards, with Besiktas, as per the report, leading the race for his signature.

Meanwhile, the report adds that veteran third-choice keeper Tom Heaton is set for talks in the coming weeks.

With him turning 40 next month, Heaton is said to be open-minded about whether to extend his stay for one final season or hang up his gloves.

Additionally, 23-year-old reserve goalie Dermot Mee is expected to be released.

Senne Lammens has established himself as number one

The decision to trim the goalkeeping department comes as Senne Lammens has firmly established himself as the undisputed number one under interim boss Michael Carrick.

The 23-year-old Belgian, who arrived from Royal Antwerp last September has provided the composure and shot-stopping ability that Onana and Bayindir lacked.

However, with four potential departures, United will be eyeing a new backup goalkeeper this summer.

Report suggests the recruitment team is scouting the Premier League for a reliable number two who can provide competition for Lammens while fitting into the club’s new, younger wage structure.

Michael Carrick backed for permanent role at Manchester United

The looming clear-out comes amid a wave of support for interim manager Michael Carrick to be given the role on a permanent basis.

Following the recent 3-1 win over Aston Villa, club legend Wayne Rooney has backed Carrick for the permanent job.

Carrick’s winning percentage is currently the highest of any United manager after nine games, having secured 22 out of a possible 27 points.

His ability to unify the dressing room and get the best out of revitalised veterans like Casemiro has reportedly impressed the INEOS hierarchy, making him the frontrunner for the post regardless of other high-profile candidates like Roberto De Zerbi.

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Top candidate for the Liverpool job revealed as Arne Slot sack claim made

17 March 2026 at 03:41

Adam Crafton of The Athletic has revealed that Xabi Alonso is expected to be a top candidate for the Liverpool manager’s job if the club decides to sack Arne Slot at the end of the season.

The Spaniard, who remains a beloved figure at Anfield from his playing days, is widely believed to be open to a return to Merseyside despite his recent stint at Real Madrid.

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Speaking on the latest edition of The Athletic FC Podcast, Crafton suggested that the former midfielder would be the natural choice to lead a new era.

He said: “I imagine he would probably take the job and I’m sure he would be a contender if they chose to let Slot go.”

Xabi Alonso top contender for Liverpool job

The link to Alonso comes at a time when his managerial stock remains high, despite a challenging five-month spell at Real Madrid that ended briefly in January.

Prior to his time in Spain, Alonso achieved legendary status at Bayer Leverkusen, where he led the German team to a historic unbeaten domestic double in 2024.

According to some reports, a verbal understanding may already be in place for Alonso to take over on a three-year deal starting in June 2026, provided Liverpool’s current campaign continues its downward trajectory.

Many fans see Alonso as the tactical and emotional successor to Jürgen Klopp, believing his ‘exceptional‘ coaching pedigree is exactly what a disjointed Liverpool squad needs.

Additionally, the presence of Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong, two of his star players from his time at Bayer Leverkusen could further prove to be incentive for all parties to make the reunion happen.

Liverpool could sack Slot at the end of the season

While Arne Slot has earned the patience after winning the Premier League title in his debut season, the current season has proven to be a major disappointment.

Liverpool currently sit in sixth place, having lost nine league games so far. The latest draw against Tottenham served as a latest warning, with Dominik Szoboszlai stating that the club could miss out on European qualification if they don’t improve.

Liverpool table

They also face a crucial Champions League rescue mission against Galatasaray tomorrow, following the 1-0 defeat in the first-leg last week.

Crafton has acknowledged the difficulty of the situation, noting, that Slot has just won the league, making a decision to sack a year later a difficult one. However, he has stated that a sacking is ‘very possible’.

But if Liverpool fails to secure Champions League football for next season, the hierarchy may feel forced to pull the trigger to avoid a long-term decline.

With Alonso currently out of work and waiting for a call, the pressure on Slot has never been higher.

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Injury blow for Liverpool as attacker with 33 goals suffers potential season ending injury

17 March 2026 at 03:13

Liverpool academy star Jayden Danns has suffered a heartbreaking injury setback during his highly anticipated return for the Under-21s against Manchester City.

The 20-year-old forward, who had been sidelined for five months following hamstring surgery in September, lasted just 29 minutes before pulling up in visible distress.

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The injury occurred as Danns attempted a characteristic burst of pace to track back into midfield.

He immediately clutched the back of his right leg and signaled to the bench, appearing devastated as he was helped from the pitch at the Kirkby Academy.

Liverpool starlet Jayden Danns suffers injury setback

The timing of this latest issue is a cruel blow for the striker, who had only just returned to full training in late February.

Having scored 29 goals in 48 appearances at youth level, Danns is considered among the emerging stars from the academy.

But the injuries have impacted his development recently, as he now faces another extended period on the treatment table, with reports suggesting his season could be over before it truly began.

Danns has produced some memorable Liverpool moments

Danns remains a favourite among fans following his breakout 2023/24 season.

Under Jurgen Klopp, he provided some of the most memorable moments, notably scoring twice in a 3-0 FA Cup win over Southampton and starring in the League Cup final victory over Chelsea.

However, under Arne Slot, minutes have come difficult for the academy’s brightest prospects.

Slot’s lack of trust in youngsters has drawn considerable criticism.

Team Appearances Goals Assists
Liverpool U18 33 24 4
Liverpool U21 16 5 2
Liverpool (senior) 10 3 1
Liverpool FC YL 2 1
Total 61 33 7

With Slot prioritising a massive half a billion summer recruitment drive over promoting from within, there are growing concerns that the development pathway for talents like Danns and Rio Ngumoha is being overlooked in favour of experienced senior players regardless of their form.

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Arsenal dealt injury setback before Leverkusen as Arteta confirms two absences

17 March 2026 at 02:37

Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Martin Odegaard and Jurrien Timber will miss Arsenal’s crucial Champions League round-of-16 second leg against Bayer Leverkusen.

The announcement comes as a significant blow to the Gunners, who are looking to secure a place in the quarter-finals following a hard-fought 1-1 draw in the first leg in Germany.

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Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Monday, Arteta was direct about the availability of his captain and star defender.

“Jurrien Timber and Martin Odegaard will be out tomorrow against Bayer Leverkusen,” the manager stated (as quoted by Fabrizio Romano).

??? Mikel Arteta: “Jurrien Timber and Martin Ødegaard will be out tomorrow against Bayer Leverkusen”. pic.twitter.com/dq1xU4V882

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 16, 2026

Arsenal to be without key players against Bayer Leverkusen

The absence of Odegaard is particularly felt in the midfield, as the Norwegian continues to struggle with a knee injury sustained in February.

While there was hope he might return for this fixture, he remained absent from Monday’s training session.

Jurrien Timber’s injury is a more recent setback; the Dutchman, who has been one of the most effective defenders in the competition this season, hobbled off during the first half of Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Everton on Saturday.

While Arteta suggested Timber’s issue might not be too serious, the recovery time might just too short for the European clash.

Arsenal will likely rely on Piero Hincapie, on loan from Leverkusen but eligible to play, or Cristhian Mosquera to fill the void at the back.

Arsenal winning the quadruple a big possibility

Despite the injury setbacks, the mood around the Emirates Stadium remains electric as Arsenal continues to hunt for an unprecedented quadruple.

The Gunners currently sit nine points clear at the top of the Premier League and have already booked a spot in the FA Cup quarter-finals.

With the Carabao Cup Final against Manchester City looming this Sunday, Arteta is desperate to beat Leverkusen to keep the quadruple dream alive.

The emergence of 16-year-old Max Dowman, who became the Premier League’s youngest-ever goalscorer over the weekend, has provided an extra boost to a squad.

 

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Tottenham make Igor Tudor decision after late draw against Liverpool

17 March 2026 at 02:04

Tottenham have decided to keep Igor Tudor as interim head coach for the time being, following a spirited 1-1 draw against Liverpool at Anfield.

According to a report from The Times, the Croatian tactician is set to remain in charge for this week’s critical fixtures against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League and Nottingham Forest in the Premier League.

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The dramatic late equaliser from Richarlison appears to have bought Tudor a stay of execution.

The Spurs hierarchy had reportedly been considering another managerial change after a disastrous run of form, but the result against Liverpool appears to have convinced them to allow Tudor to lead the team through to the international break.

Igor Tudor to remain Tottenham manager for next two games

While the draw against the defending champions has eased the immediate pressure, Tudor’s position remains under heavy scrutiny.

The club is currently in a race against time to overturn a 5-2 deficit in their Champions League round-of-16 second leg against Atletico Madrid tomorrow night.

The board is also aware of the relegation six-pointer against Nottingham Forest on Sunday.

With Spurs currently sitting in 16th place, just one point above the drop zone, the result against Forest is viewed as non-negotiable.

Should Tudor fail to secure a win in either of these fixtures, the club may turn to a somone like Sean Dyche to help them survive the drop.

Tottenham results under Igor Tudor

The point at Anfield was notably the first that Tottenham has earned under Tudor since he replaced Thomas Frank on February 14.

Despite the slight boost in morale, the club is still yet to record a victory in the calendar year 2026 and remains winless under the new manager’s tenure.

Match Venue Result Competition
Tottenham vs Arsenal Home L 1–4 Premier League
Fulham vs Tottenham Away L 1–2 Premier League
Tottenham vs Crystal Palace Home L 1–3 Premier League
Atlético Madrid vs Tottenham Away L 2–5 Champions League
Liverpool vs Tottenham Away D 1–1 Premier League

Tudor described the draw as ‘immense’ given the squad’s injury crisis, which left him with only 12 senior outfield players available for selection.

However, with 14 goals conceded in just five matches, the Croatian must find a way to improve the defence that has looked alarmingly fragile if he hopes to keep the job beyond the weekend.

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“Very possible” – The Athletic reporter makes big Arne Slot sack claim after Tottenham draw

17 March 2026 at 01:31

Arne Slot could face the sack at the end of the season despite his historic debut campaign at Anfield, according to The Athletic reporter Adam Crafton.

The Dutchman, who led Liverpool to the Premier League title just last year, is currently navigating a period of intense pressure as the club’s title defence has completely collapsed.

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Crafton, speaking on the latest situation surrounding the Liverpool manager, suggested that while Slot may deserve patience, the ruthless nature of elite football makes a departure a genuine possibility.

Adam Crafton says Arne Slot sacking ‘very possible’

Despite the Liverpool hierarchy publicly maintaining a stance of support, Crafton believes the summer could bring a change in leadership if results do not improve.

Speaking on The Athletic Podcast, he said:

“If you win the league in your first season and then get yourself in the Champions League even if it’s by hook or crook, then I do think you deserve another year to get out of the little rut you are in.

“The guy has won the league. It’s mad to think about someone being fired a year after winning the league, but I think that’s very possible.”

The comments reflect a growing sentiment that even a manager who delivered the club’s first post-Klopp title is not immune to the consequences of a dramatic drop-off in performance.

Premier League title in debut season has kept Slot in job so far

The primary reason Slot remains in the dugout is the immense credit he earned during the 2024/25 season.

Replacing a figure as influential as Jürgen Klopp was widely seen as an impossible task, yet Slot achieved the unthinkable by securing the Premier League trophy in his first attempt.

That achievement has acted as a shield during the current campaign, as FSG and the Liverpool board are reportedly hesitant to pull the trigger on him.

Liverpool have been awful this season

The statistics, however, paint a grim picture for the defending champions. Liverpool currently sit in fifth place, 21 points behind leaders Arsenal.

The Reds have already suffered nine league defeats this season, the most by a defending champion at this stage of the season since Leicester City in 2017.

Coupled with a 1-0 first-leg deficit against Galatasaray in the Champions League round of 16 and shock home defeats has resulted in serious frustration among fans.

There is a massive lack of belief in the players, something which was Liverpool’s strongest point under Klopp.

With over £400 million spent in the summer, the lack of return on the pitch has left Slot’s long-term future hanging in the balance.

 

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Arsenal could be handed unexpected financial boost as European giants plot £30m transfer

17 March 2026 at 00:27

Arsenal could be set for a significant financial windfall as Serie A giants Juventus plot a £30 million move for defender Jakub Kiwior this summer.

The 26-year-old, who left North London in September to make room for the arrival of Piero Hincapie, is currently on a season-long loan at Porto, where his stock has risen dramatically.

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Juventus revive longstanding interest in Jakub Kiwior

According to Tuttosport, Juventus have revived their long-standing interest in the versatile centre-back, who is equally comfortable operating on the left-hand side of a four-man defense.

The Bianconeri are reportedly keen to bring Kiwior back to Italy, where he previously excelled with Spezia, to provide competition and cover for former Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly, whose move to Turin was made permanent last summer.

Juventus’ interest in the Polish international dates back to his time in Serie A between 2021 and 2023.

While Arsenal ultimately won the race for his signature in a £21 million deal, the Italian club has continued to monitor his progress.

Report suggests that Juventus sporting director Marco Ottolini was in Portugal last week to scout Kiwior during Porto’s high-profile fixtures against Sporting and Benfica.

The 26-year-old has established himself as a staple of Francesco Farioli’s defense, helping Porto keep 12 clean sheets in Liga Portugal this season.

Juventus reportedly view him as a player who can immediately improve their defensive unit as they continue their rebuilding process.

Arsenal set for transfer windfall from Kiwior sale

The situation is complicated by the structure of Kiwior’s current move. His loan deal at the Estádio do Dragao includes a mandatory obligation to buy, meaning Porto are set to pay Arsenal approximately £23 million to make the transfer permanent this summer.

However, a permanent stay in Portugal is not guaranteed. If Juventus follow through with their £30 million interest, Porto could be tempted to make an immediate profit on the defender.

For Arsenal, such a quick flip would be highly beneficial; the original agreement between the Gunners and Porto reportedly includes a sell-on clause, which would see Mikel Arteta’s side receive an extra £1.7 million should Porto sell him on this summer.

With Hincapie having agreed a five-year permanent contract at the Emirates, Arsenal’s decision to move Kiwior on appears to have been a masterstroke, potentially netting the club nearly £25 million in total fees while clearing space for their newest defensive star.

Kiwior’s time at Arsenal

Kiwior arrived at the Emirates in January 2023 for a fee of £21 million.

During his tenure in North London, he made 68 appearances for the Gunners and was often called upon by Mikel Arteta during crucial title-run periods to fill in for the injured Gabriel Magalhaes or Oleksandr Zinchenko.

While he was a reliable squad player, he struggled to cement a permanent starting spot over the club’s preferred central pairing.

His departure in September 2025 was seen as the best move for all parties, allowing Arsenal to bring in Piero Hincapie while granting Kiwior the regular first-team football.

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Before yesterdayMain stream

John Terry claims Arsenal have a player who reminds him of Lionel Messi

16 March 2026 at 03:24

John Terry has claimed that Arsenal wonderkid Max Dowman reminds him of Lionel Messi, following the teenager’s record-breaking performance against Everton on Saturday.

The Chelsea legend took to TikTok to praise the 16-year-old, who became the youngest goalscorer in Premier League history during the Gunners’ 2-0 victory.

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John Terry compares Max Dowman to Lionel Messi

Terry has seen Dowman shine with the Arsenal academy during his role at Chelsea’s academy and was unreserved in his praise.

He said:

“Max Dowman, what a player by the way, 16 years of age, absolutely incredible.

“I watched him play against Chelsea about a year ago and I’ve not seen anyone glide past people like this man does, other than Messi. That’s a big, big comparison but this man is a proper talent and will play a big part in Arsenal’s future and also England as well.”

@johnterry26

Max Dowman, what a player and pleased for him to get his first goal tonight. Poor goal we conceded tonight and disappointing to lose at home against Newcastle. #premierleague #arsenal #chelsea #chelseafc #football

? original sound – John Terry

Max Dowman makes Premier League record

Dowman’s historic moment arrived in stoppage time against the Toffees. With the score at 1-0 and Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford stranded upfield for a corner, the 16-year-old collected the ball deep in his own half.

Displaying the composure Terry alluded to, Dowman glided past two Everton players before sprinting half the length of the pitch to roll the ball into an empty net.

At 16 years and 73 days, Dowman shattered the 20-year record held by former Everton striker James Vaughan.

Rank Player Club Age
1 Max Dowman Arsenal 16y 73d
2 James Vaughan Everton 16y 270d
3 James Milner Leeds United 16y 356d
4 Wayne Rooney Everton 16y 360d
5 Rio Ngumoha Liverpool 16y 361d
6 Cesc Fàbregas Arsenal 17y 113d
7 Michael Owen Liverpool 17y 143d
8 Andy Turner Tottenham 17y 166d
9 Federico Macheda Man United 17y 226d
10 Lewis Miley Newcastle 17y 229d

The goal capped a sensational cameo for the midfielder, who had already provided the initial cross that led to Viktor Gyokeres’ opener in the 89th minute.

Mikel Arteta hailed the youngster as a “game-changer” after the match, noting that his natural talent and lack of fear make him a unique asset for the league leaders.

 

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What Manchester United fans were heard chanting about ‘fantastic’ midfielder vs Aston Villa

16 March 2026 at 02:56

Manchester United fans serenaded Casemiro with a resounding “one more year” chant following another masterclass performance from the Brazilian midfielder in Sunday’s 3-1 victory over Aston Villa.

The scenes at Old Trafford marked a dramatic shift in sentiment for a player who, just months ago, appeared to be winding down his career in England.

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Despite an official announcement in January that Casemiro would depart at the end of the season, his recent resurgence has left the Stretford End desperate for a U-turn.

As the final whistle blew, the stadium echoed with the plea, as reported by The Mirror: “One more year, one more year, Casemiro.”

Casemiro with another solid performance against Aston Villa

The 34-year-old was instrumental in securing a result that tightens United’s grip on third place.

Casemiro opened the scoring in the 53rd minute, meeting a Bruno Fernandes corner with a glancing near-post header that left Emiliano Martínez helpless.

The goal was Casemiro’s seventh of the season, his most prolific return since joining the club from Real Madrid in 2022.

Beyond the goal, his defensive work was equally vital; a crunching tackle on Amadou Onana ignited the counter-attack that led to United’s second goal, scored by Matheus Cunha.

By the time he was substituted for Manuel Ugarte in the closing minutes, the veteran midfielder had touched the ball more than any other United player, proving he still possesses the engine many critics like Jamie Carragher claimed had failed him last season.

Casemiro’s impact under Michael Carrick has been huge

The catalyst for this revival appears to be the arrival of interim manager Michael Carrick. Since taking over in January, Carrick has started Casemiro in all nine matches, a period in which United have dropped points only twice.

Reports suggest that Casemiro has ‘connected deeply’ with Carrick’s tactical approach.

Under Carrick, the ‘fantastic‘ Casemiro has been given more license to progress the ball, supported by the energy of Kobbie Mainoo.

While the club’s hierarchy, led by INEOS, is reportedly still planning for a future without the Brazilian’s £350,000-a-week wages, Carrick admitted after the game that the midfielder’s form makes him indispensable to the current project.

With Champions League football for 2026/27 now looking like a certainty, the pressure is mounting on the board to reconsider the veteran’s departure.

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Dominik Szoboszlai doesn’t hold back in fiery interview following draw against Tottenham

16 March 2026 at 00:03

Dominik Szoboszlai gave a brutally honest assessment of Liverpool’s current state following a frustrating 1-1 draw against a struggling Tottenham side at Anfield.

Despite taking an early lead through a trademark Szoboszlai free-kick, the Reds conceded a dramatic 90th-minute equaliser to Richarlison, leaving the home crowd in a state of shock and frustration.

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The draw leaves Liverpool’s top-four hopes hanging by a thread, and Szoboszlai warned that if the team’s form does not improve drastically, even the secondary European competitions might be out of reach.

Dominik Szoboszlai blasts Liverpool after draw against Tottenham

Speaking to Sky Sports immediately after the final whistle, the Hungarian midfielder did not hold back. He said:

“That is a huge disappointment. I don’t know what happened, I have nothing to say. In the last minute, again, I don’t know how many times this season already. We have to wake up.

“I feel flat. We have to wake up because if we carry on like this, we should be happy with the Conference League. I don’t know why this is happening, I honestly don’t know.

“I think in the first-half we played very well, we controlled the whole game and they hardly created chances apart from one or two headers. Second half we just didn’t so the same things.

“We will sit down together, and this is the most difficult time, but we have to stick together.”

“I didn’t hear the boos, but we can understand them. We are not performing how we should. They should stand behind us because last season we became Champions four games before the end everybody was happy. Support us in a difficult time.”

“There is still time to show how much we want it, we have to stick together and fight for the club.”

Questions need to be asked of Arne Slot

The result has placed further scrutiny on manager Arne Slot, who has seen his side’s title defence crumble into a desperate fight for Champions League qualification.

Despite the hierarchy reportedly remaining behind him, the inability to kill off a Tottenham side that arrived at Anfield in complete disarray is being viewed as a significant tactical failure.

Slot’s decision to retreat into a defensive shell in the second half backfired spectacularly when Spurs found a way through in the final seconds.

With a critical Champions League rescue mission against Galatasaray ahead and a looming clash with Manchester City, it does not look good for Liverpool.

Fans are getting increasingly frustrated by the Dutchman and while the Liverpool hierarchy may be behind the manager for now, it remains to be seen if their stance chances at the end of the season.

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Tottenham star brutally slammed for ‘mistake’ against Liverpool that left Igor Tudor ‘bitterly frustrated’

15 March 2026 at 22:48

Jamie Redknapp has blamed Guglielmo Vicario for the opening goal Tottenham conceded against Liverpool during their high-stakes clash at Anfield.

The Italian goalkeeper, who was restored to the starting lineup after a midweek benching, failed to stop a Dominik Szoboszlai free-kick that has left Spurs reeling.

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Guglielmo Vicario slammed for poor goalkeeping

The goal came in the 18th minute when Szoboszlai, who has been in sensational form for Arne Slot’s side, curled an effort towards the left corner.

Despite having a clear sight of the ball, Vicario’s footwork appeared sluggish, and although he managed to parry the strike, he succeeded only in pushing it into the side of the net.

Speaking on Sky Sports (via BBC Sports) at halftime, Redknapp was critical of the keeper’s technique. He said:

“We have seen some beauties from Dominik Szoboszlai, like against Arsenal and Manchester City, but this one is a goalkeeping mistake.

“Just look at Vicario’s feet pattern, he almost trips himself over. He doesn’t get any elevation, doesn’t move properly. He gets a really big hand to it. He has to save it.”

Phil Mcnulty also criticised the Italian, claiming that his mistake would have made Igor Tudor incredibly frustrated.

He said (via BBC Sports): “Spurs and interim head coach Igor Tudor will be bitterly frustrated with that after a making such a decent start.

“It was another goalkeeper error, with Guglielmo Vicario getting his positioning wrong then making a feeble attempt to keep out Dominic Szoboszlai’s free-kick. Not been substituted, though.”

Tottenham’s goalkeeping crisis continues

The error further compounds a dire goalkeeping situation for interim manager Igor Tudor.

Last Tuesday, Tudor made the shock decision to drop Vicario for the 22-year-old Antonin Kinsky during the Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid.

That move backfired spectacularly, as Kinsky made two glaring errors and was taken off after just 17 minutes, leaving the young Czech keeper in tears.

Vicario has been notably out of form, making a string of high-profile mistakes during Tottenham’s current 11-match winless run.

With Spurs sitting just one point above the relegation zone, the lack of a reliable presence between the posts is becoming a primary concern.

With reports already suggesting Vicario could be sold this summer, his latest blunder at Anfield has only intensified calls for the club to seek a permanent replacement.

The post Tottenham star brutally slammed for ‘mistake’ against Liverpool that left Igor Tudor ‘bitterly frustrated’ appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Watch: Dominik Szoboszlai scores yet another free-kick to give Liverpool the lead vs Tottenham

15 March 2026 at 21:15

Liverpool have taken a 1-0 lead over Tottenham thanks to a moment of pure Hungarian magic from Dominik Szoboszlai.

The breakthrough came in the 18th minute after Alexis Mac Allister drew a foul just outside the penalty area.

As the Spurs wall braced itself, there was little doubt who would take charge. Szoboszlai stood over the ball with his trademark composure.

The Hungarian stood over it with confidence and executed it perfectly, curling it with power into the top left corner. Spurs goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario got a hand to it but it was not enough to keep it out.

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Dominik Szoboszlai scores his fifth direct free-kick of the season!#beINPL #LIVTOT #LFC pic.twitter.com/bXoXAAlrSj

— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS_EN) March 15, 2026

Dominik Szoboszlai is perhaps the best free-kick taker in the world right now

With that stunning opener, Szoboszlai has cemented his reputation as one of the most lethal free-kick specialists in the game.

His ability to generate incredible whip while maintaining pinpoint accuracy makes every set-piece within 30 yards feel like a high-percentage chance for the Reds.

This was his fifth free-kick of the season, having scored 30 yard stunners against Arsenal earlier in the season and against Manchester City last month.

He scored one against Bournemouth as well as against Marseille in the Champions League.

Szoboszlai has been Liverpool’s best player this season

Beyond his set-piece heroics, this goal is yet another highlight in what is becoming a truly special individual campaign.

Szoboszlai has been the heartbeat of this Liverpool side throughout the 2025/26 season, driving the team forward with his relentless work rate and creative vision.

He has been one of the first names on Arne Slot’s team sheet, playing anywhere and everywhere from attacking midfield to right-back in what has been a crisis season.

Whether winning the ball back deep in his own half or firing rockets into the top corner, Szoboszlai is currently playing some of the best football of his career.

The post Watch: Dominik Szoboszlai scores yet another free-kick to give Liverpool the lead vs Tottenham appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Wayne Rooney sends clear message to Manchester United board over Michael Carrick

15 March 2026 at 20:55

Wayne Rooney has backed Michael Carrick to be appointed Manchester United’s permanent manager following a decisive 3-1 victory over Aston Villa.

The win at Old Trafford has strengthened United’s grip on third place and further fueled the debate over whether the interim boss has done enough to earn the role full-time.

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Wayne Rooney backs Michael Carrick for the Manchester United job

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live after the match, Rooney was unequivocal in his support for his former teammate.

Rooney emphasised that Carrick’s impact extends beyond tactical tweaks, noting the renewed unity within the squad.

The United legend also highlighted Carrick’s historic start, which has seen him surpass the early win percentages of previous illustrious managers.

He said:

“100% he should [get the job]. I have said this. I knew this was going to happen with Michael Carrick.

“I know him very well. I know his character, his personality. It needed a calm head, but someone who knows the place and the players needed some love, and he has given them that.

“We have seen the players play with more quality, more together as a team, and they look like a very strong team. For me, why would you change?

“He has got the best winning percentage of any Manchester United manager after that many games. For me, he has to get the job.”

Michael Carrick has made a strong case for himself

The statistics certainly support Rooney’s “no-brainer” stance. Since taking over in mid-January, Carrick has steered the Red Devils to seven wins, one draw, and just one defeat in nine Premier League outings.

This remarkable run has seen United collect 22 out of a possible 27 points, transforming them from seventh-place outsiders into the favorites for a Champions League spot.

Sunday’s win over Villa makes if 7 wins out of 9. Despite Ross Barkley’s second-half equaliser, United remained composed, with goals from Casemiro, Matheus Cunha, and super-sub Benjamin Sesko sealing the win.

With Bruno Fernandes also breaking the club record for assists in a single season (16), the mood around Carrington has shifted from crisis to confidence.

While the board is reportedly considering a five-man shortlist including Roberto De Zerbi, Rooney believes the answer is already right under their noses.

The post Wayne Rooney sends clear message to Manchester United board over Michael Carrick appeared first on CaughtOffside.

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