Arsenal snatched a massive away victory in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final on Tuesday night, as substitute Kai Havertz struck a clinical stoppage-time winner to deflate a resilient Sporting CP in Lisbon.

In what was a cagey and tactical affair at the José Alvalade Stadium, the German international proved to be the difference-maker.

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Introduced in the 70th minute for Martin Odegaard, Havertz waited until the 91st minute to make his mark, ghosting into the center of the box to meet a perfectly weighted pass from fellow substitute Gabriel Martinelli.

The finish was precise, guiding the ball past Rui Silva and silencing the home crowd.

Superb Kai Havertz ???

Brilliant play from Gabriel Martinelli and Havertz calmly slots home after a sublime first touch ? pic.twitter.com/LF9EnQutnw

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

Huge away win for Arsenal

The 1-0 victory ends Sporting’s formidable run of 17 consecutive home wins and provides Mikel Arteta’s side with a narrow but precious advantage to take back to the Emirates Stadium next week.

After a frustrating first half where both Noni Madueke and Sporting’s Maximiliano Araújo hit the woodwork, Arsenal grew into the game.

The Gunners thought they had taken the lead earlier in the second half when Martín Zubimendi curled a stunning effort into the net, but the goal was ruled out by VAR due to an offside in the buildup involving Viktor Gyokeres.

Despite the setback, Arsenal remained disciplined, and the late intervention from Havertz ensured they avoided a third consecutive game without a win following their recent domestic struggles.

David Raya the hero for Arsenal

While Havertz will grab the headlines for his heroics at one end, David Raya was equally instrumental at the other.

The Spanish goalkeeper produced a “masterclass” in shot-stopping, particularly in the closing stages as Sporting pushed for a winner of their own.

Raya was forced into a stunning low save to deny a diving header from Geny Catamo in the 83rd minute and followed it up with a vital double save in the 87th minute after initially spilling a cross.

?? David Raya against Sporting CP:

· 5 saves
· 5 saves from inside the box
· 1 punch
· 100% successful runouts
· 93% pass accuracy pic.twitter.com/90TfiCqGLB

— Futball Centa (@futballcenta) April 7, 2026

His ability to recover and smother the follow-up attempt preserved the clean sheet and laid the foundation for Arsenal’s late smash-and-grab.

With the defensive anchor Gabriel Magalhães absent through injury, Raya’s vocal leadership and distribution were essential in guiding a makeshift backline through the hostile Lisbon atmosphere.

The post Watch: Havertz snatches victory for Arsenal in stoppage time after heroic David Raya performance appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester City are reportedly confident they have won the race to sign Nottingham Forest sensation Elliot Anderson, leapfrogging bitter rivals Manchester United to land one of the Premier League’s most coveted young talents.

The 23-year-old has been at the center of a mounting transfer tug-of-war, but sources suggest the Etihad is now the midfielder’s preferred destination as City look to kickstart a major engine-room rebuild.

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A host of clubs are keen on signing Elliot Anderson

According to reports from The Mirror, City believe they are now in pole position to secure a deal worth approximately £65 million.

This news comes as a significant blow to a long list of suitors, including Manchester United, Chelsea, and Tottenham, all of whom have been monitoring the England international closely.

As per the report, Anderson is expected to leave the City Ground this summer regardless of whether Forest, currently embroiled in a fierce survival battle, avoids relegation.

While United remain ‘seriously in the race‘ under interim boss Michael Carrick, Anderson has reportedly let it be known that he favors a move to the blue half of Manchester.

City are eager to seal the transfer before the 2026 World Cup in North America begins, fearing that a standout tournament alongside Declan Rice could see his valuation soar beyond £100 million.

Arsenal are also firmly interested and the Rice factor could potentially play a role if he were to choose the Gunners.

Anderson is one of the best midfielders in England

Since his £35 million move from Newcastle United in 2024, Anderson’s rise has been nothing short of incredible.

This season, he has established himself as a midfield powerhouse, recording a pass completion rate of 88% across 31 Premier League appearances.

Elliot Anderson stats in Premier League this season via FotMob

With Bernardo Silva confirmed to be leaving and Mateo Kovacic also linked with an exit, Pep Guardiola sees Anderson as the ideal high-energy replacement.

His ability to drive forward from deep while maintaining defensive discipline has made him a certain pick for Thomas Tuchel’s England squad.

For City, securing Anderson early would represent the first major win in what promises to be a transformative summer for the Premier League giants.

The post Report: Man City now in pole position to beat Man United and Arsenal to sign £65m midfielder appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United winger Amad Diallo has publicly thrown his support behind interim manager Michael Carrick, revealing that the dressing room believes the former club captain is the “right man” to lead the team permanently.

Carrick, who stepped in following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim in January, has overseen a remarkable resurgence at Old Trafford.

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Under his guidance, United have transformed from a side in turmoil into genuine Champions League contenders, currently sitting third in the Premier League table.

Amad Diallo on Michael Carrick: “He’s the right man”

Speaking during a press conference in Dublin, Amad was clear about the impact Carrick has had on the squad.

While acknowledging that the final decision lies with the board, the Ivory Coast international made his personal stance, and revealed the feelings of his teammates.

“Obviously, it’s not for us as players to decide his future but he’s been great,” Amad told reporters (via Bein Sports).

“He’s done so much for the team, he has a lot of experience, he knows the club, he has been in the house. We think he’s the right man and we’re really happy for what he’s doing right now.

“He knows the club, he played for the club, he has great experience to manage this club. His relationship with every player is very good and sometimes you need this kind of manager to bring the club to where they belong.”

Michael Carrick’s brilliant work at Man United

The job Carrick has done certainly backs up the players’ enthusiasm. Since taking over as caretaker, Carrick has recorded seven wins, two draws, and just one defeat in his first 10 matches.

This run has seen United climb up the league, reigniting a push for a return to Europe’s elite competition after a two-year absence.

Beyond the results, players like Bryan Mbeumo have praised Carrick’s ability to communicate and manage individual egos within the squad.

While some reports suggest a minority of United officials remain undecided, the overwhelming backing from the dressing room and the fanbase as well as club legends like David Beckham suggests that the interim tag may soon be removed.

With seven games remaining, Carrick is now the firm favorite to lead Manchester United into the 2026/27 campaign.

The post Amad Diallo sends clear message to Manchester United board over Michael Carrick future appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool are reportedly leading the race to sign Real Madrid midfielder Eduardo Camavinga, with the Spanish giants now open to offers following a reported dip in confidence at the Santiago Bernabéu.

In a shock update from L’Equipe (subscription required), Real Madrid have removed the 23-year-old from their “non-transferable” list for the first time since his arrival from Rennes in 2021.

The Premier League champions are said to be on “red alert”, viewing this as a rare opportunity to land a player they have tracked since his teenage years in France.

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Bidding war looms with Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United

While Liverpool are said to be the frontrunners, they face significant domestic competition.

Both Arsenal and Manchester United are monitoring the situation closely.

Chelsea are also interested, with The Daily Briefing previously reporting that the Blues along with Liverpool have made fresh contacts with Camavinga’s entourage.

The report from France suggests that Real Madrid are bracing for a bidding war but have already established a clear financial threshold.

Los Blancos will reportedly not consider any bids below £50 million (€58m).

For a player under contract until 2029, this figure is seen as a relative bargain by English clubs, especially given Camavinga’s pedigree as a two-time Champions League winner.

Liverpool’s long-term pursuit of Camavinga

Liverpool’s interest in the France international is far from a recent development. The club’s recruitment team has kept extensive files on Camavinga for years, even attempting to hijack his move to Madrid back in 2021.

The urgency has intensified following a series of defensive lapses at Real Madrid, most notably in a recent defeat to Mallorca where former Liverpool defender Alvaro Arbeloa publicly criticised the midfielder’s concentration.

With Liverpool’s midfield being one of their weakest points this season, the Reds could do with a player of Camavinga’s profile to strengthen the midfield.

The post Report: Liverpool now ahead of Arsenal, Chelsea and Man Utd to sign Real Madrid star after significant twist appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Enzo Fernandez is reportedly prepared to take the nuclear option to secure a dream move to Real Madrid, with the Argentine midfielder set to submit a formal transfer request to the Chelsea hierarchy.

According to the Spanish television programme El Chiringuito (as reported by Goal), the 25-year-old has decided to stop dropping hints and instead take a “decisive stance” to facilitate his exit from Stamford Bridge.

The report suggests that Fernandez views a move to the Santiago Bernabéu as his priority and is willing to force Chelsea’s hand to ensure the deal progresses this summer.

Enzo Fernandez punished by Chelsea for international break remarks

The relationship between Fernandez and Chelsea has soured significantly following the March international break.

The midfielder was handed a two-match internal suspension by manager Liam Rosenior after “crossing a line” during a series of public comments.

During these interactions, Fernandez expressed a desire to live in Madrid, citing the language and culture as a perfect fit for his family.

These remarks, coming at a time when Chelsea had just suffered a humiliating 8-2 aggregate exit from the Champions League at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain, were deemed “disappointing” by Rosenior.

Consequently, the Argentine was axed from the squad for the FA Cup quarter-final against Port Vale and will also miss this weekend’s critical Premier League clash against Manchester City.

Enzo Fernandez’s time at Chelsea coming to an end?

Since his British-record £106.8 million move from Benfica in January 2023, Fernandez has been a central figure in the Chelsea project.

In the current 2025/26 campaign, he has registered 12 goals and 6 assists across 46 appearances, often wearing the captain’s armband in the absence of Reece James.

However, despite his individual quality, Chelsea’s lack of consistent success has reportedly left the midfielder disillusioned.

El Chiringuito explains that the main hurdle remains Chelsea’s staggering valuation, which could reach €150 million (£131m).

Real Madrid are reportedly aware of Chelsea’s firm stance, backed by a contract that runs until 2032, and may intentionally delay a formal bid until the final week of August to pressure the London club into lowering their demands.

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Aston Villa have moved into pole position to secure the signature of rising Moroccan star Yanis Benchaouch, submitting a concrete offer for the AS Monaco goalkeeper ahead of the summer transfer window.

As first reported by AfricaFoot, the Midlands club has transitioned from mere interest to decisive action.

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Villa have reportedly tabled a five-year contract featuring a net annual salary of €850,000.

In a move designed to smooth over negotiations with Monaco, where Benchaouch has officially declined a professional contract, Villa has included a significant future sell-on clause to avoid a lengthy dispute over training compensation.

Aston Villa leading the race but face stiff competition

While Unai Emery’s side is leading the European charge, they face a massive financial threat from Qatar.

Al Gharafa has entered the fray with a staggering package worth $1.2 million per year, supplemented by an annual signing bonus of $300,000.

The race for the 19-year-old does not end there. The report reveals that Benchaouch is currently on the “wish list” of ten different clubs.

Premier League rivals Bournemouth remain interested after a failed winter bid, while Serie A giants Inter Milan, Modena, and Monza are also monitoring the situation. Additional interest is stemming from the Eredivisie, the Belgian Pro League, and Spain’s La Liga.

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Who is Yanis Benchaouch?

Standing as one of the most highly-rated young goalkeepers in French football, Benchaouch has enjoyed a meteoric rise through the ranks at AS Monaco.

Despite his youth, he has been a consistent presence for Monaco’s U19 and “Groupe Élite” sides, earning a reputation for his exceptional reflexes and modern distribution.

Born in France but representing Morocco internationally, Benchaouch has already earned caps for the Moroccan U20 side.

His refusal to sign a professional deal in the Principality has made him one of the most sought-after free talents in Europe, as FIFA regulations currently allow him to sign a pre-contract with any club outside of France.

With Aston Villa currently competing at the top end of the Premier League, the chances of signing for them is much more compared to the rest.

The post Aston Villa are now in pole position to sign Moroccan star; ‘concrete’ offer submitted appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Inter Milan are preparing to accelerate their pursuit of Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, with the Italian international emerging as their primary target to become the club’s long-term number one.

The Nerazzurri are actively searching for a successor to veteran goalkeeper Yann Sommer, who, at 37, is expected to transition into a backup role ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

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According to reports from CalcioMercato.it, Inter sporting director Piero Ausilio has been closely monitoring Vicario and is now ready to push ahead of rival clubs to secure his signature.

Vicario is currently valued between €15 million and €20 million (£12.5m–£17m), a fee Inter view as a cost-effective deal for a goalkeeper who has proven himself in the Premier League since joining Spurs from Empoli in 2023.

Juventus join Inter Milan in race for Guglielmo Vicario

Inter are not alone in their interest, with Juventus also identifying Vicario as a key target this summer.

The Turin giants are looking to strengthen competition for Michele Di Gregorio, and reports indicate that initial discussions have already taken place with Vicario’s representatives.

With Tottenham currently battling near the relegation zone, the 29-year-old is believed to be open to a return to Serie A, particularly with a view to improving his chances of cementing a place in the Italian national team.

Tottenham open to Vicario sale amid De Zerbi plans

Tottenham could be willing to sanction Vicario’s departure this summer as part of a wider tactical overhaul under new manager Roberto De Zerbi.

The Italian coach is expected to implement a system that prioritises playing out from the back, placing increased importance on a goalkeeper’s distribution.

While Vicario has impressed as a shot-stopper, his reported passing accuracy of 69% may raise concerns over his suitability for De Zerbi’s style.

As a result, Spurs are monitoring alternative options, including Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen and Manchester City’s James Trafford.

Selling Vicario could provide Tottenham with the financial flexibility needed to recruit a goalkeeper better suited to De Zerbi’s high-risk, build-up-focused approach.

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Tottenham could be set to receive a significant financial windfall this summer, thanks to a smart decision made by then Chairman Daniel Levy when offloading striker Troy Parrott in 2024.

The Republic of Ireland international, who struggled to break into the first team at N17, was sold to Dutch side AZ Alkmaar for £6.7 million in July 2024.

However, Spurs inserted a 20% sell-on clause into the deal, a move that looks increasingly brilliant as Parrott’s market value continues to increase.

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According to a recent report, Leeds United have made Parrott a a key target as they look to bolster their attacking options.

Daniel Farke’s side is among the suitors monitoring the 24-year-old, with a potential transfer fee now estimated at £25 million.

Should a deal in that price bracket be finalised, Tottenham would be entitled to roughly £5 million.

This represents a significant return on a player who made only four senior appearances for the club.

While Leeds are among the frontrunners, other clubs, including AC Milan, Fulham, and Wolfsburg, are also said to be keeping tabs on the prolific forward, which could drive the price even higher.

More Stories / Latest News

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Apr 6 2026, 9:35

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Apr 6 2026, 8:45

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Apr 6 2026, 8:22

Troy Parrott has been impressive since leaving Spurs

Parrott’s departure from North London appears to have been the catalyst for his transformation into one of Europe’s most clinical young strikers.

After a solid first year in the Netherlands where he netted 20 goals, the Dublin-born forward has taken his game to another level in the 2025/26 campaign.

This season he has scored 28 goals and assisted another 10 in 42 games across all competitions.

Parrott’s form has not been limited to club football; his five goals for Ireland in 2025, including a stunning hat-trick against Hungary, were instrumental in firing his nation into the 2026 World Cup play-offs.

At 24, Parrott finally looks ready for the Premier League stage.

The post Spurs set for major cash windfall thanks to smart 2024 transfer decision appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Newcastle United defender Matt Targett has confirmed that his time at St James’ Park has come to an end, admitting that his “chapter at the club is closed” as he focuses on a permanent future elsewhere.

The 30-year-old left-back, who is currently flourishing on a season-long loan at promotion-chasing Middlesbrough, spoke candidly about his situation following a string of impressive performances in the Championship.

After two injury-plagued years on Tyneside, Targett has successfully revitalised his career at the Riverside Stadium.

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Matt Targett says he is done at Newcastle

Speaking to Sky Sports, Targett revealed that a conversation with Magpies boss Eddie Howe in January paved the way for his permanent departure.

Despite having a contract that runs until June 2027, both parties appear to have reached a mutual understanding that a return to the Newcastle first team is unlikely.

“I had a chat with Eddie in January and he was so understanding about my situation, so I thank him for that. He knew staying at Middlesbrough was beneficial for me and that I wanted to keep playing. The future? I’m not sure to be honest. I believe I’m done at Newcastle, so that chapter is closed.”

Targett’s primary goal is now securing a permanent move to Boro, provided they navigate the upcoming play-offs successfully.

“Hopefully we get promoted here and there will be a contract for me… but if not, I’ve played as much as I can this season so I’ll assess my options.”

? ? Matt Targett on Newcastle/Middlesbrough:

?? “It was really important to me that I could come here (Middlesbrough) and prove I can play a full season with no injuries.

?? “I had a chat with Eddie (Howe) in January and he was so understanding about my situation, so I… pic.twitter.com/97FNVV79L3

— Keith Downie (@SkySports_Keith) April 3, 2026

Matt Targett’s time at Newcastle

Targett  was an key player for the club during the 2021/22 season, joining initially on loan from Aston Villa and providing the defensive stability that helped the club avoid relegation.

His move was made permanent for £15 million that summer, with many viewing him as a cornerstone of the new era.

However, the subsequent rise of Dan Burn and the arrival of Lewis Hall, coupled with a series of debilitating hamstring and heel injuries, saw him fall down the pecking order.

Between 2023 and 2025, Targett managed just a handful of Premier League appearances, leading to his eventual loan exit.

With Newcastle now focused on younger, high-ceiling defensive targets for their 2026/27 campaign, Targett’s departure marks the end of a reliable, if injury-stalled, period for the veteran full-back.

The post Newcastle defender admits he’s ‘done’ with club ahead of summer move appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Tottenham players have returned from their first training session under Roberto De Zerbi with “rave reviews,” sparking a much-needed wave of optimism at a club currently fighting for its Premier League survival.

The 46-year-old Italian, who signed a five-year contract earlier this week to succeed Igor Tudor, took to the grass at Hotspur Way for the first time on Friday.

According to football.london, the impact was immediate, with the players appearing to buy into De Zerbi’s high-intensity methods from the opening minute.

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Tottenham players left impressed with Roberto De Zerbi

As per the report from Alasdair Gold, the atmosphere at the North London club has shifted overnight.

One senior player reportedly described the session as “outstanding” to close friends and others provided glowing feedback regarding the ‘level of the work’.

Footage released by the club also showed the former Brighton boss working closely with young talents like Lucas Bergvall, Mathys Tel, who returned to training following an injury, and Archie Gray.

De Zerbi’s top priority is to keep Tottenham up

Despite the positive “vibes” from the training ground, the reality of Tottenham’s situation remains grim.

Spurs are currently 17th in the Premier League, sitting just one point above West Ham in the final relegation spot with only seven games remaining.

Premier League relegation battle

De Zerbi has exactly one week to embed his philosophy before his first official test: a daunting trip to Sunderland on April 12.

With the club’s top-flight status on the line, the board is banking on this “outstanding” first impression translating into immediate results to avoid a historic drop to the Championship.

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Southampton’s social media team has added salt to the wounds of the Arsenal faithful, brutally trolling a Gunners supporter on X following the Saints’ shock 2-1 FA Cup victory at St Mary’s on Saturday.

The exchange went viral minutes after the final whistle, as the clinical Championship side secured their place in the semi-finals, effectively ending Arsenal’s hopes of a domestic cup trophy this season.

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Southampton admin brutally trolls Arsenal fan

The interaction began when a frustrated Arsenal supporter replied to Southampton’s official full-time announcement.

The fan dismissed the Saints’ hard-fought victory, secured by a late 85th-minute winner from Shea Charles, simply as a “Fluke Win.”

The Southampton admin was quick to fire back, delivering a reference to the recent hype surrounding Mikel Arteta’s side, with many thinking they could win the quadruple.

The official account replied: “Enjoy your quadruple, pal,” accompanied by a waving emoji.

The post immediately racked up tens of thousands of likes, with rival fans joining in to mock the North London club’s rapid exit from two major competitions in just a fortnight.

Enjoy your quadruple, pal.

— Southampton FC (@SouthamptonFC) April 4, 2026

Arsenal bottle another trophy opportunity

For Arsenal, this reflects a grim reality on the pitch. Having already lost the League Cup final to Manchester City before the international break, the Gunners have now lost their second trophy opportunity in as many weeks.

The late defensive lapse following Gabriel Magalhaes’ injury have raised familiar questions about the squad’s mental fortitude.

With the FA Cup and League Cup now off the table, the pressure is on Arteta to deliver at least one trophy.

Mikel Arteta really needs to deliver silverware

While the “quadruple” was always an ambitious dream, the sudden collapse in domestic cups has left Arsenal with only two avenues for success: the Premier League and the Champions League.

Arteta, who has transformed the club into title contenders, now faces a defining month.

With a Champions League quarter-final against Sporting CP on Tuesday, the Spaniard knows that a “trophyless” season would be viewed as a failure.

As the Saints’ admin was keen to point out, the talk of multiple trophies is over; now, Arsenal must prove they can secure at least one to justify their “elite” status.

That said, Arteta can still end the season with not just one but two trophies. The Gunners have a perfect record in the Champions League and are expected to reach the finals of the competition this season.

In the Premier League, they enjoy a nine point lead over Manchester City and while they have played a game more than their title rivals, it is very unlikely for Arteta to bottle a potential 6 point lead with seven games to play.

The post Southampton social media brutally trolls Arsenal after shock FA Cup exit appeared first on CaughtOffside.

The atmosphere at Liverpool has reached a toxic breaking point following a humiliating 4-0 FA Cup quarter-final defeat to Manchester City, with footage now going viral showing traveling supporters singing the famous Xabi Alonso chant as they streamed out of the Etihad Stadium.

The defeat, which marked a staggering 15th loss of the season for manager Arne Slot, appears to have been the final straw for a fanbase that has grown increasingly disillusioned since the turn of the year.

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Liverpool supporters send the club hierarchy a clear message

As the goals flew in from a rampant City side, the away end began to empty well before the final whistle.

Footage shows the travelling fans leaving the stadium, as they sent an indirect message to the Liverpool hierarchy, singing the famous Xabi Alonso chant in full voice.

Alonso has been strongly linked with a dream return to Anfield after his success with Bayer Leverkusen.

With Liverpool’s title defence in tatters and chances of a domestic trophy now gone, the fans are no longer hiding their discontent.

The vocal support for Alonso, coupled with fans calling for the dismissal of Slot, suggests that the grace period afforded to Slot following last season’s Premier League success has officially expired.

Fans have spoken… got to go pic.twitter.com/Mnykhc2RXa

— Wade Muscart (@WadeMuscart) April 4, 2026

A deep disconnect between club and fans

The scenes at the Etihad highlight a worrying disconnect that is beginning to tear at the fabric of the club.

Beyond the result, the behavior of the players and the reaction of the supporters signal a growing internal crisis.

Szoboszlai altercation: At full-time, Dominik Szoboszlai was involved in a heated standoff with fans.  The midfielder appeared to shrug his shoulders and wave his arms dismissively toward the away, requiring teammate Federico Chiesa to physically lead him away.

Early exits: Many fans opted to leave with 20 minutes remaining, an almost unheard-of sight for a club defined by its “Never Walk Alone” values.

Managerial uncertainty: With a crucial Champions League clash against PSG looming on Wednesday, Slot is facing a mutiny.

The lack of fight shown against City has led many to believe the players have stopped playing for the manager.

For Liverpool, the “defining month” of April has started in catastrophic fashion. If the board does not act soon to bridge the gap between the dugout and the Kop, the final weeks of the season could witness an unprecedented collapse.

The post Watch: What Liverpool fans were seen doing after the FA Cup defeat as clear message to owners sent appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Manchester United are open to selling Manuel Ugarte this summer, with the midfielder pushing for a move away after struggling to establish himself under the current system.

The 24-year-old, who joined from PSG in 2024 on a deal running until 2029, has endured a frustrating campaign at Old Trafford.

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Ugarte has made just 21 Premier League appearances and has been unable to cement a regular starting role, with sources indicating he is not viewed as a natural fit for the 4-2-3-1 setup.

Sources have informed CaughtOffside that Ugarte’s desire to leave is well known internally.

The Uruguay international had explored the possibility of a loan exit during the January window, but that move was blocked by the club.

However, the situation has evolved, and a permanent departure is now increasingly likely.

Plenty of suitors for Manuel Ugarte as Manchester United set asking price

CaughtOffside sources understand that Juventus are currently leading the race to sign Ugarte, with their interest dating back to his time at Sporting CP.

Sporting director Marco Ottolini has personally tracked the midfielder in recent international fixtures, as the Italian giants step up their plans ahead of the summer window.

A move to Serie A is viewed as a strong possibility, although Juventus’ ability to complete a deal will depend on their Champions League qualification.

Manchester United are believed to value Ugarte at around €40 million, despite his current estimated market value sitting closer to €30 million. His salary, understood to be around €4 million net per year, is not expected to be a stumbling block for interested clubs.

Galatasaray, Newcastle and Aston Villa also monitoring Ugarte situation

Galatasaray have also re-entered the race for Ugarte and are prepared to offer him a prominent role as part of their ambitious Champions League project.

The Turkish giants are willing to guarantee regular playing time, something the midfielder has lacked in Manchester, and that could prove decisive in his final decision.

Elsewhere, Newcastle United and Aston Villa are both monitoring the situation, while Ajax and Sunderland have also been linked. However, those latter options are currently considered less likely.

With multiple clubs circling and Manchester United open to doing business, Ugarte is emerging as one of the key midfield names to watch ahead of what is shaping up to be a busy summer transfer window.

The post Exclusive: Newcastle eyeing €40m Manchester United star ahead of potential summer swoop appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Mikel Arteta has provided a concerning injury update on Gabriel Magalhaes, admitting that the central defender’s forced substitution during Arsenal’s shock FA Cup exit is “never good news.”

The Brazilian mainstay was withdrawn midway through the second half of the Gunners’ 2-1 defeat to Southampton at St Mary’s on Saturday.

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Gabriel appeared to be in significant discomfort, clutching his right leg before signaling to the bench that he could no longer continue.

Arteta on Gabriel Magalhaes injury

Speaking in his post-match press conference, a visibly frustrated Arteta could not hide his worry regarding the 28-year-old’s condition.

Gabriel had only recently returned to the side after sitting out the international break with a knee issue, making this latest setback particularly alarming for the Premier League leaders.

Arteta said:

“I think he felt something. I don’t know exactly what it is. We’re going to have to assess him, but obviously, when a player is asking to be substituted, it’s never good news.”

The loss of Gabriel comes at a nightmare time for Arsenal. The defender was seen with ice strapped to his knee following the game, and with a Champions League quarter-final first leg against Sporting CP scheduled for Tuesday, the Gunners face the prospect of losing their defensive anchor for the most critical stretch of the season.

Arsenal crash out of second cup in two weeks

The injury served as the final blow on a disastrous afternoon for Arsenal, who have seen their hopes of a historic quadruple evaporate in the space of just fourteen days.

Following their defeat to Manchester City in the League Cup final at Wembley before the international break, the Gunners have now crashed out of another domestic trophy opportunity, leaving the Champions League and the Premier League the only two chances of willing a trophy this season.

Despite taking a second-half lead through Viktor Gyokeres, Arsenal collapsed in the closing stages.

Shea Charles’ 85th-minute winner for the second-tier Saints sent the St Mary’s crowd into a frenzy and left the Premier League leaders reeling.

Having fully dominated the league for much of the season, Arteta’s side now faces a sudden “wobble” that threatens to derail their remaining ambitions in both the league and Europe.

The post “Never good news” – Mikel Arteta drops worrying Gabriel Magalhaes injury update after Arsenal shock FA Cup exit appeared first on CaughtOffside.

New fan footage has captured a distressing scene at the Etihad Stadium, appearing to show Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai involved in a heated altercation with a section of the traveling supporters following the club’s 4-0 FA Cup exit.

The Hungarian international, who has been one of the few players to receive pass marks during a tumultuous season, seemed to reach a breaking point as the Reds’ domestic cup ambitions were ruthlessly extinguished by Manchester City.

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What happened between Liverpool fans and Dominik Szoboszlai at full-time

The footage, which surfaced on social media shortly after the final whistle, shows Szoboszlai approaching the away end as the players went to acknowledge the fans who had stayed until the end.

While most players offered a despondent applause, the 25-year-old appeared to take exception to comments directed at him from the front rows.

The video shows an animated Szoboszlai gesturing toward a group of supporters before being ushered away by teammate Federico Chiesa.

While the exact dialogue remains unclear, it appeared that Szoboszlai was not happy that the fans were not applauding the players’ efforts.

pic.twitter.com/hWbhBWwztV

— • (@GeronimoMCI) April 4, 2026

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Things are falling apart at Liverpool

The confrontation is the latest sign of a club in freefall. Liverpool have now suffered 15 defeats across all competitions this season, a staggering regression for the defending Premier League champions.

The atmosphere surrounding the club has turned toxic, with the “Arne Out” sentiment growing louder after every setback.

With Mohamed Salah confirmed to be leaving this summer and the team currently sitting in fifth place, the bond between the players and the fanbase is being tested like never before.

Szoboszlai has previously admitted that the team is affected by fans leaving Anfield early, but this direct confrontation at the Etihad suggests the pressure of a crumbling season is finally weighing on the dressing room leaders.

As the Reds prepare for a “do-or-die” Champions League clash with PSG on Wednesday, Arne Slot faces the impossible task of mending a fractured team and a furious fanbase simultaneously.

The post Watch: New fan footage shows Dominik Szoboszlai involved in heated altercation with some Liverpool fans appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler has called out Arne Slot for a perceived lack of leadership following the club’s humiliating 4-0 FA Cup quarter-final exit at the hands of Manchester City.

The defeat at the Etihad, which featured a hat-trick from Erling Haaland and a missed penalty by the departing Mohamed Salah, has pushed the Reds’ season to the brink of collapse.

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Speaking during the post-match coverage, Fowler expressed his deep concern over the mental state of the squad and the manager’s inability to spark a reaction.

Robbie Fowler blames Arne Slot for Liverpool mess

Fowler was blunt in his assessment of the current management, arguing that the responsibility for the team’s current problems lies firmly at the door of the head coach, who he believes has failed to provide the necessary spark during difficult moments.

Fowler told TNT Sports (via BBC Sport):

“Arne Slot has to get the players to be better versions of what they are. You need leaders to drag people through tough times. That’s what you need, but we are not seeing that from the manager.”

The former striker noted that he had “never seen a Liverpool team so devoid of confidence,” especially after starting the game with a positive intent that quickly evaporated after City’s opening goal.

The loss marks Slot’s 15th defeat of the season, a statistic that Fowler suggests is indicative of a wider leadership vacuum within the dressing room and on the touchline.

Liverpool should bring in Steven Gerrard

With the Champions League now the only remaining chance for silverware, and a daunting clash with PSG looming, the calls for a radical change are intensifying.

Supporters have been calling for Slot to be sacked since a few weeks and the defeat vs Man City only intensified their frustrations as a section of fans walked out much before the final whistle.

There is a growing belief that Liverpool should bring in Steven Gerrard as an interim manager to see out the season.

The reasoning is simple: the team requires a massive morale boost and a figurehead who understands the club’s DNA implicitly.

Under this proposal, Gerrard would act as a someone who would try and boost the current morale at the club and hope to finish top four.

Gerrard could play a similar role to what Michael Carrick has played in steadying the ship at Man United.

The post Robbie Fowler singles out one Liverpool ‘leader’ responsible after devastating defeat vs Man City appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Former Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart has shared a poignant observation regarding Mohamed Salah during the first half of Liverpool’s devastating 4-0 FA Cup exit at the hands of the Premier League champions.

The Egyptian forward, who recently confirmed he will leave Anfield at the end of the 2025/26 season, endured a difficult afternoon at the Etihad.

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His struggles were compounded in the second half when he saw a penalty saved by James Trafford, but Hart noted that the signs of a “broken” performance were visible long before the final whistle.

Joe Hart says Mohamed Salah looked devastated

Speaking as a pundit on TNT Sports (via BBC Sport), Hart revealed that he was struck by Salah’s uncharacteristic body language as the teams headed for the tunnel at half-time, with Liverpool trailing 2-0.

“We’re so used to seeing Mo Salah being a confident player,” Hart said. “It was difficult watching him today, actually. That first opportunity he had where the block was made was a tell-tale sign. He struggled and he looked low on confidence. We saw him walking in at half-time and he was devastated.”

Mo Salah’s last season at Liverpool

While this season is turning into a nightmare for the Reds, marked by their 15th defeat today, Salah’s struggles this season will do little to tarnish his legendary status.

Since arriving in 2017, the Egyptian King has netted 255 goals and provided 100+ assists, leading the club to two Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy.

Though he appeared a shadow of his former self at the Etihad, missing three major chances and the penalty, his place as the third-highest leading goalscorer in the club’s history is secure.

As Arne Slot’s side shifts focus to a daunting Champions League clash with PSG on Wednesday, supporters will be hoping for one final spark of magic from their departing icon to salvage what remains of a crumbling campaign.

The post What Mohamed Salah was spotted doing at half-time as Joe Hart shares worrying observation appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Arne Slot has explained his decision to substitute Joe Gomez during Liverpool’s humiliating 4-0 FA Cup defeat to Manchester City.

The defender was withdrawn in the second half at the Etihad Stadium as the Reds struggled to cope with Erling Haaland, who netted a devastating hat-trick.

The versatile defender was replaced as the Reds struggled to contain a rampant Erling Haaland, who secured a hat-trick at the Etihad Stadium.

With Liverpool’s season effectively hanging by a thread, Slot’s post-match comments shed light on the delicate balancing act he is performing with a squad ravaged by fitness issues.

Arne Slot reveals why he took Joe Gomez out

Speaking to TNT Sports (via BBC Sport) after the final whistle, Slot explained that the decision was entirely tactical and designed to preserve Gomez for the upcoming Champions League quarter-final against Paris Saint-Germain.

“I took Joe Gomez out because he has shown since I am here that it is not always easy to play him for 90 minutes twice,” Slot admitted. “So if we want to use him on Wednesday, it is helpful that I took him out today.”

Slot’s admission highlights a growing concern: he simply cannot rely on his senior defenders to complete a full 180 minutes of high-intensity football within a four-day window.

While the substitution was a “precautionary” measure, it did little to stem the bleeding on a day when Liverpool’s defensive frailties were laid bare.

Liverpool defensive crisis exposed again

The 4-0 thrashing marks the 15th defeat of the season for Slot, a staggering statistic for a side that lifted the Premier League trophy just twelve months ago.

The Reds have now conceded 46 goals in the Premier League alone this term, with their total goals against across all competitions surpassing 60 following today’s exit.

Liverpool have now lost 15 matches across all competitions this season, their most defeats in a single season since 2014/15, when the Reds lost 18 matches under Brendan Rodgers.

Pressure mounts on Arne Slot

With the FA Cup exit confirmed and the Premier League title defence in tatters, the focus now shifts to Europe.

Liverpool face a decisive Champions League showdown against PSG, with Slot under intense scrutiny.

Fan frustration has reached boiling point, with sections of supporters leaving the stadium early and calls growing louder for the Dutchman to be sacked.

The club hierarchy must now decide whether to act immediately or wait until the end of the season before making a decision, but with results deteriorating, Slot’s future at Anfield hangs in the balance.

The post Arne Slot explains real reason behind Joe Gomez substitution after Liverpool’s 4-0 collapse vs Man City appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool’s season hit a shocking new low as Manchester City dismantled them 4-0 at the Etihad, sparking a furious fan backlash and fresh calls for Arne Slot to be sacked immediately.

The FA Cup quarter-final humiliation saw Erling Haaland run riot with a clinical hat-trick, sending Pep Guardiola’s side into the semi-finals for a record eighth consecutive season.

Liverpool fans call for Slot to be sacked

The FA Cup quarter-final, which many viewed as Slot’s last chance to save his debut campaign, turned into a humiliation as Erling Haaland scored a clinical hat-trick to send Pep Guardiola’s side into the semi-finals for a record eighth consecutive season.

The “Arne Out” sentiment, which had been simmering following a 2-1 loss to Brighton before the international break, reached a boiling point before the final whistle even blew in Manchester.

Social media was flooded with demands for the Dutchman’s dismissal, with many fans calling for Steven Gerrard to be given the interim role immediately.

One said: “Let Stevie G see the season out. Can it really be worse than what we are seeing now? And let Xabi take over at season end.

“Stevie G recently said he would be open to an assistant role if asked:

“I would do it for Liverpool Football Club if I was asked and they felt that I was the right man to do it, I’d be up for it, of course.”

Let Stevie G see the season out. Can it really be worse than what we are seeing now? And let Xabi take over at season end.

Stevie G recently said he would be open to an assistant role if asked:

“I would do it for Liverpool Football Club if I was asked and they felt that I was… pic.twitter.com/4m7MdzJDRC

— Moby (@Mobyhaque1) April 4, 2026

Another said: “Bring Gerrard in just for the team morale at this point. Forget tactics. This team need a lift in confidence & Gerrard will do that. Look fora new manager in the summer. These players don’t believe in slot”

https://x.com/Elliott76562164/status/2040425452355870858?s=20

And others didn’t care who comes in but wanted Slot sacked immediately.

One said: “John Henry needs a cataract surgery if he thinks Arne Slot should remain Liverpool manager.”

John Henry needs a cataract surgery if he thinks Arne Slot should remain Liverpool manager.

— ????? (@LFC_Lucas_) April 4, 2026

Another furiously stated: “Slot Out… Bald fraud to be blame we go forward..leaving big gaps.. defence is piss poor & no protection… Gravenberch & jones need to sit in front of defenders.. Bald fraud has zero tactics… Rio is left winger…only the bald fraud will play him on the right wing…”

Slot Out…
Bald fraud to be blame we go forward..leaving big gaps.. defence is piss poor & no protection…
Gravenberch & jones need to sit in front of defenders..
Bald fraud has zero tactics…
Rio is left winger…only the bald fraud will play him on the right wing… ??????

— myn sangha (@mynz) April 4, 2026

The post Liverpool crisis deepens as fans demand Arne Slot sack after 4-0 thrashing appeared first on CaughtOffside.