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Today — 4 May 2026Main stream

Sky Sports man says Tottenham star’s performance vs Aston Villa was his best in Spurs shirt

4 May 2026 at 00:45

Tottenham delivered a statement victory at Villa Park this weekend, dismantling Aston Villa in a performance that signaled their growing dominance under the current tactical regime.

While the scoreline suggested a competitive contest, the reality on the pitch told a different story, one of North London superiority driven by a midfield masterclass.

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Sky Sports News reporter Jamie Weir, speaking from pitchside at Villa Park, was unequivocal in his praise for several Tottenham players including Conor Garragher, who he believe has his best game in a Spurs shirt.

Conor Gallagher performance vs Aston Villa

Conor Gallagher after scoring for Tottenham
(Photo by Adrian Dennis / AFP via Getty Images)

Since his move to the capital, Gallagher has struggled to make any significant impact, often struggling under previous two managers.

But under Roberto De Zerbi, Gallagher seems to have found his groove, with the Italian getting the best out of him.

Weir described the performance as “Gallagher’s best game in a Spurs shirt,” noting that he controlled the tempo and transition of the game with relentless intensity.

Stat Output
Touches 59
Possessions Won 6
Duels Won 4
Tackles 3
Accurate Long Balls 2/2
Shots on Target 1/1
Goals 1
Conor Gallagher – Game by Numbers vs Aston Villa via Squawka

Gallagher wasn’t alone in his excellence. Flanked by Joao Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur, the trio formed an impenetrable engine room.

“Either side of him, Palhinha and Bentancur were utterly magnificent,” Weir added.

The praise extended to the flanks, where Mathys Tel and Destiny Udogie were described as “relentless,” supported by a composed defensive pairing of Kevin Danso and Micky van de Ven.

Gallagher full of praise for Roberto De Zerbi

The Italian manager has injected fresh energy in the existing squad, who have responded to him immediately.

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Tottenham’s Conor Gallagher speaking to TNT Sports after the game was full of praise for the new manager. “I can’t speak highly enough of him. He’s been so good.

“Every player in the squad has taken to him, everyone trusts him, he makes you feel good, confident, he’s bringing the best out of players and it’s only the start.

“Hopefully we can keep learning from him and build a great team.”

“I can’t speak highly enough of him, he’s been so good.” ?

Conor Gallagher praises Roberto De Zerbi after a strong display from Tottenham Hotspur

?? @Becky_Ives_ | ? Watch live on TNT Sports and HBO Max. pic.twitter.com/H7hAA4RGLK

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) May 3, 2026

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Watch: Tottenham fans will love how Roberto De Zerbi celebrated Richarlison’s goal vs Aston Villa

3 May 2026 at 22:58

Roberto De Zerbi’s celebration following Richarlison’s goal against Aston Villa is exactly the kind of raw passion Tottenham fans have been desperate to see.

In a season defined by struggle, the sight of their manager charging onto the pitch to in celebration has provided a defining image of a club finally fighting back.

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Roberto De Zerbi on the pitch celebrating Richarlison’s goal

The match at Villa Park is still ongoing, but the first half belonged entirely to the visitors.

After a bright start, Tottenham doubled their lead in the 25th minute when Richarlison scored a thumping header from vicious Mathys Tel cross. As the ball hit the back of the net, De Zerbi couldn’t contain himself.

The Italian tactician was spotted sprinting onto the grass in a display of pure emotion.

BBC Live reported: “Roberto De Zerbi was on the pitch celebrating that. Loves it, he does,”

For a fanbase that has felt disconnected at times this year, De Zerbi’s heart-on-sleeve management style could just be what the club needs to survive relegation.

De zerbi ? pic.twitter.com/Nm3x50exZq

— Pitch Wire (@wire_pitch) May 3, 2026

Conor Gallagher scores debut goal for Tottenham

The foundations for this dominant display were laid just twelve minutes into the match by Conor Gallagher.

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Controlling the ball from a loose clearance, Gallagher drilled one from long range straight into the bottom corner to give Spurs the all important lead over Villa.

?Conor Gallagher picks the perfect time to score his first goal for Spurs.

Danso's throw is cleared as far as Gallagher, he takes a touch before firing low into the bottom corner to give us the lead! ?#THFC | #COYS | #TOTTENHAM | #SPURS | #AVLTOT pic.twitter.com/ij4VpMLMMr

— Last Word On Spurs (@LastWordOnSpurs) May 3, 2026

With a 2-0 lead at the interval and De Zerbi orchestrating from the touchline with his trademark intensity, Tottenham look a side transformed.

If they can maintain this level for the second 45 minutes, they will move out of the drop zone and potentially secure their most significant result of the 2025/26 campaign.

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Yesterday — 3 May 2026Main stream

Kobbie Mainoo aims subtle dig at Ruben Amorim as Manchester United star praises Michael Carrick after Liverpool winner

3 May 2026 at 22:02

Manchester United’s match-winner against Liverpool, Kobbie Mainoo, appeared to take a thinly veiled swipe at former manager Ruben Amorim while praising the transformative impact of Michael Carrick.

Speaking to Sky Sports following his stunning 77th-minute decider at Old Trafford, the 21-year-old midfielder spoke glowingly of the connection between the current squad and their head coach.

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Kobbie Mainoo praises Michael Carrick after Manchester United win

Mainoo, who has been the standout performer since Carrick took the reins in January 2026, highlighted the shift in atmosphere at Carrington.

“He’s played a huge part in it, all the confidence he gives all the players,” Mainoo said, visibly emotional after the 3-2 victory.

“You want to follow him and fight for him and die for him on the pitch.”

The comments have been interpreted by many as a reflection of the fractured relationship between the squad and Amorim, whose 14-month tenure ended abruptly on January 5.

While the Portuguese manager struggled to find consistency, leaving the club in sixth place, Carrick has revitalised the side, leading them on a charge that has seen them climb to third in the Premier League table.

Ruben Amorim struggled to get the best out of Kobbie Mainoo

The contrast in Mainoo’s role under the two managers is striking. Despite being regarded as one of United’s brightest young talents, he was largely overlooked by Amorim, playing just 212 minutes of Premier League football in the first half of the campaign.

It reached a point that Mainoo was even considering a move to Napoli in the January window to secure first-team football.

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However, since Carrick’s appointment on January 13, Mainoo has become central to United’s system, starting 12 of the manager’s first 13 matches in charge.

Carrick has built his approach around Mainoo’s composure, intelligence, and passing range,  qualities that were previously underutilised.

Mainoo’s decisive display against Liverpool now stands as a powerful statement of Carrick’s faith, while also highlighting what Manchester United risked losing under the previous regime.

With the midfielder now committing his future to the club by signing a new long-term contract, United have secured one of their most important players for years to come.

 

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Watch: Kobbie Mainoo scores rocket from edge of the box to win it for Man United vs Liverpool

3 May 2026 at 20:37

Kobbie Mainoo has scored a rocket of a strike from the edge of the box to potentially win the game for Manchester United in a thrilling encounter at Old Trafford.

With the scores locked at 2-2 following a frantic second-half comeback by Liverpool, the “hometown hero” stepped up in the 77th minute to re-establish the lead and ignite the Stretford End.

Kobbie Mainoo strikes to win it for Man United

The match had taken a dramatic turn after halftime, with Liverpool erasing United’s 2-0 lead through goals from Dominik Szoboszlai and Cody Gakpo.

However, Manchester United’s resolve remained unbroken. In the 77th minute, a cross from Luke Shaw was headed down by Amad Diallo into a crowded penalty area.

Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister attempted to clear the danger, but his boot only found the path of the onrushing Mainoo.

From the edge of the area, the 21-year-old midfielder connected with a perfectly timed side-foot rocket that rifled into the bottom corner, leaving Freddie Woodman with no chance.

Kobbie Mainoo rattles it in at the Stretford End! ? pic.twitter.com/3HDRLnyC4D

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026

Mainoo has become a vital part of Michael Carrick’s Man United

Mainoo, who was on the verge of a January exit just a few months ago after falling out with Ruben Amorim has become a key player under Michael Carrick.

Under the guidance of legendary midfielder, who took over as head coach in January 2026, the young midfielder is now one of the first names on the team sheet.

Mainoo’s ability to arrive late in the box and provide clinical finishing has added a new dimension to United’s attack.

His performances has seen him earn a new long-term contract, signing a deal that will see him stay at Old Trafford till 2031.

 

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Watch: Dominik Szoboszlai solo stunner and Senne Lammens howler spark Liverpool comeback to make it 2-2

3 May 2026 at 20:16

Awful defensive mistakes from Manchester United have allowed Liverpool to claw their way back into the game early in the second half.

Despite a dominant opening 45 minutes from the Red Devils, clinical finishes from Dominik Szoboszlai and Cody Gakpo have leveled the score at 2-2 in this high-stakes match.

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Dominik Szoboszlai scores solo goal after Diallo mistake

Manchester United entered the second half with a comfortable two-goal cushion, but that momentum evaporated just two minutes after the restart.

Amad Diallo, who had replaced the injured Benjamin Sesko at halftime, endured a nightmare start to his cameo.

In the 47th minute, Diallo attempted a loose pass in his own half that was easily intercepted by Dominik Szoboszlai.

The Hungarian midfielder needed no second invitation, driving forward with intent and weaving through the United defense.

He capped off the solo run with a composed finish past Senne Lammens, breathing immediate life into an Arne Slot side that had looked second-best until that point.

A fabulous solo goal from Dominik Szoboszlai and Liverpool are in the contest! ? pic.twitter.com/qy0XNLki2g

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026

Senne Lammens gifts Liverpool an equaliser

If the first goal was a gift, the second was a complete collapse.

In the 56th minute, young United goalkeeper Senne Lammens committed a catastrophic error that silenced the Old Trafford crowd.

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Under minimal pressure, the Belgian shot-stopper attempted to play out from the back but scuffed his clearance directly into the path of Alexis Mac Allister.

Mac Allister quickly fed Szoboszlai, who unselfishly laid the ball off for Cody Gakpo. With Lammens caught out of position and the goal gaping, the Dutch forward made no mistake, tapping home from close range to make it 2-2.

Gakpo pounces on the loose pass and makes no mistake! ? pic.twitter.com/376SnkyN6N

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) May 3, 2026

The two goals in nine minutes have completely shifted the complexion of the match. United, who had appeared to be cruising toward a third-place consolidation, now find themselves under immense pressure.

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‘Dreadful’ – Roy Keane brutally slams Liverpool star’s first half performance vs Man United

3 May 2026 at 19:56

Roy Keane has singled out Andy Robertson for a “dreadful” performance as Manchester United took a commanding lead against Liverpool at Old Trafford.

With United heading into the break 2-0 ahead, the Sky Sports pundit did not hold back in his assessment of the visitors’ defensive display, labeling them a “bad five-a-side team.”

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Roy Keane slams Liverpool’s first half performance

The first half was defined by Manchester United’s relentless intensity and clinical finishing.

Matheus Cunha opened the scoring just six minutes in, followed by a controversial 14th-minute goal from Benjamin Šeško that was allowed to stand despite a VAR check for handball.

While Arne Slot’s side protested the decision, Keane argued that the manager should be more concerned with his players’ lack of composure.

“[Slot] won’t be happy [with the Sesko handball call] but he should be more upset with his team.

“They look frightened to death. They’ve started slow, they’ve given up two goals, defensively – the second goal, Robertson getting beaten at the back post, Robertson defending so far and going forward… Oh it’s been dreadful.

“Liverpool are like a five-a-side team but a bad five-a-side team.

“Not athletic, giving away the ball cheaply. United look like they can score every time they go forward.”

Liverpool have been awful

The Reds have been awful all season despite spending almost half a billion on transfers.

Many would claim that the club are in a transition phase but the problems appear far deeper with the culture and mentality that Klopp had drilled into the club appearing to have been ripped apart.

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Liverpool have 45 minutes to respond to that horrible performance. Slot has to change things quickly or this could become an embarrassing night for the defending champions.

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Watch: Fan angle of Bukayo Saka assist vs Fulham is even better than the TV broadcast

3 May 2026 at 01:44

Bukayo Saka returned to the Arsenal starting lineup with a point to prove, and it took less than ten minutes for the England star to remind the Premier League exactly what it has been missing.

Following an Achilles injury that sidelined him for over a month, Saka’s performance in the 3-0 demolition of Fulham was a masterclass in wing play, headlined by a sensational assist for Viktor Gyokeres, who had his best game in an Arsenal shirt.

While the television cameras captured the brilliance of the goal, a fan footage circulating on social media has provided a breathtaking angle of the build-up.

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Bukayo Saka’s assist from the stands

The video, filmed from the North Stand, shows Saka isolated on the right wing against Raul Jiménez, who was covering an unfamiliar left-back role.

The footage captures the moment Saka completely wrong foot Jimenez with a signature drop of the shoulder, dropping the Fulham striker on his backside before exploding toward the byline.

The roar of the Emirates crowd is audible as Saka then played in the perfect cross through a sea of white shirts, putting the ball on a plate for Gyokeres, who tapped it into an empty net.

The fan footage shows the sheer speed and skill of Saka and the perfectly weighted pass, which bypassed three Fulham defenders to find the Swedish striker.

 

Bukayo Saka’s performance vs Fulham

Despite being withdrawn at halftime to rest for the upcoming Champions League semi-final against Atlético Madrid, Saka’s impact was undeniable.

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In just 45 minutes of football, he dismantled Fulham’s left flank and reminded fans why he remains the heartbeat of Mikel Arteta’s attacking system.

Stat Output
Touches 39
Chances Created 4
Possession Won 4
Touches in Box 4
Shots 2
Shots on Target 1
Goals 1
Assists 1

Bukayo Saka – 45-Minute Masterclass vs Fulham via Squawka Football

Saka’s goal in the 40th minute was equally impressive, as he played a neat one-two with Gyökeres before firing a low finish inside Bernd Leno’s near post.

Arteta took him off in the 46th minute with one eye on the Champions League clash mid-week.

With Arsenal now six points clear at the top of the table and Saka back to his scintillating best, the Gunners look primed for the final run-in of the 2025/26 campaign.

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Report: Aston Villa plotting move to sign highly-rated midfielder for free

3 May 2026 at 01:10

Aston Villa and Crystal Palace are reportedly among a host of clubs strongly interested in securing the services of Rangers prospect Bailey Rice.

According to an exclusive report from TEAMtalk, the 19-year-old midfielder is set to leave Ibrox this summer upon the expiry of his contract, sparking a high-profile pursuit from several Premier League sides.

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Aston Villa looking to land Bailey Rice on free transfer

Aston Villa, alongside European semi-finalists Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace, are pushing to sign the Scottish teenager as a free agent.

The report indicates that multiple English clubs have already entered formal discussions with Rice’s representatives, presenting detailed pathways designed to accelerate his transition into senior first-team football.

While Rice’s time at Rangers was once viewed as a major coup when he was signed from Motherwell in 2022, his development has seemingly slowed due to a lack of consistent opportunities.

Although he has made over a dozen first-team appearances for the Glasgow giants, including a cameo during the current 2025/26 campaign, the report states that the player has grown frustrated with the current playing time.

With his contract set to expire on May 31, 2026, a move south of the border appears increasingly inevitable as Villa and Palace look to beat continental competition from the likes of Ajax and Stuttgart and Schalke.

Who is Bailey Rice: Rangers’ young star?

Bailey Rice is a technically gifted, left-footed midfielder known primarily for his composure in a deep-lying playmaker role.

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At just 19, he has already been capped by Scotland at various youth levels and is highly regarded for his tactical intelligence and ability to dictate the tempo of a game.

Rice is versatile enough to operate as a defensive midfielder or even drop into a central defensive role if required.

Despite his high ceiling, a injury in November 2025 sidelined him for several months, missing 22 games.

As he nears a return to full fitness this May, the race for his signature is intensifying, with Premier League scouts viewing him as an excellent long-term investment.

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Report: Newcastle plotting raid on West Ham for their star defender

3 May 2026 at 00:19

Newcastle United are reportedly preparing a raid on West Ham for defender Konstantinos Mavropanos, as they look to capitalise on the instability currently surrounding the East London club.

According to a report from Sports Boom, the Magpies are ready to pounce on the 28-year-old Greek international as they begin a comprehensive summer rebuild.

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Newcastle want Konstantinos Mavropanos

According to the report, the interest from St James’ Park comes at a time of significant upheaval for West Ham.

Following the recent resignation of long-serving vice-chair Karren Brady, several high-level board roles remain vacant.

This off-field uncertainty is mirrored by a precarious situation on the pitch, with the Hammers currently embroiled in a tense relegation battle that has left them just two points above the drop zone.

The report claims that West Ham will be willing to sell Greek international this summer and Newcastle who are expected to undergo a summer rebuild are prepared to make a move for him.

The report further adds that any move will not be dependent on the future of Eddie Howe, with the Newcastle hierarchy already convinced by the 28-year-old’s credentials.

Konstantinos Mavropanos’ mixed time at West Ham so far

Since joining from Stuttgart in 2023, Mavropanos has experienced a rollercoaster tenure at the London Stadium.

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While he has often been a standout performer, particularly during a recent revival under Nuno Espírito Santo, his start to life at West Ham was not the best.

In the 2025/26 campaign, the Greek center-back has shown his aerial prowess and goal-scoring threat, notably netting twice in a dominant 4-0 win over Wolves in April and an equaliser against Manchester City in March.

With contract talks reportedly stalling earlier this season, the defender is said to be interested in a fresh challenge.

For Newcastle, he represents a high-upside target who could finally provide a consistent partner for Malick Thiaw in the heart of their defense.

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Before yesterdayMain stream

Newcastle United plotting £17m move for Brazilian wonderkid as Bruno Guimaraes replacement

2 May 2026 at 23:14

Newcastle United are reportedly monitoring Corinthians starlet Andre Luiz as a potential successor to Bruno Guimaraes, should the Magpies’ talisman depart St James’ Park this summer.

According to ESPN Brazil journalist Felipe Silva, the Tyneside club is keeping a close watch on the 19-year-old midfielder as they draw up contingency plans for their engine room.

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Newcastle eyeing move for Andre Luiz

The report suggests that the feeling at Corinthians is that the upcoming transfer window represents the ideal moment to capitalise on the youngster’s rising stock.

ESPN indicates that Andre’s representatives are already in Europe, actively gauging interest from potential suitors.

Corinthians are understood to be open to negotiations for a player they have long considered one of their most valuable financial assets.

As per the report, the Brazilian club has reportedly set a valuation of approximately €20m (£17m) for 70% of his economic rights.

Furthermore, the midfielder is said to be willing to waive his own percentage of the transfer fee to ensure a deal can be struck.

Who is Andre Luiz?

Luiz is a highly-rated youngster who has quickly established himself as a key player in the Brazilian club’s first team.

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The right-footed playmaker is known for his technical composure and tactical intelligence, traits that have drawn comparisons to some of Brazil’s elite deep-lying midfielders.

Despite his youth, he has already gained significant experience in high-pressure competitions, including the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A and the CONMEBOL Libertadores.

His ability to dictate tempo and break lines has made him a standout emerging star in South American football.

With a market value currently estimated at €16m (as per transfermarkt), and a contract running through 2029, he represents a long-term investment.

For Newcastle, securing a talent like Andre Luiz for under £20m could prove to be a masterstroke, mirroring the successful scouting strategy that brought Guimaraes to the club in 2022.

With Guimaraes’ future at the club uncertain, with Arsenal among clubs showing strong interest in signing the Brazilian, Luiz could prove to be a smart signing as a long-term successor.

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Pundit says Arsenal star produced his ‘best’ ever display as Gunners thrash Fulham 3-0 in first half

2 May 2026 at 22:05

Arsenal forward Viktor Gyokeres has produced what has been his finest performance in an Arsenal shirt, according to BBC reporter Alex Howell.

The Swedish international was at the heart of a relentless first-half display that saw the Gunners dismantle Fulham, as they push for the Premier League title.

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Howell: “That’s the best Viktor Gyokeres has played for Arsenal”

Speaking from the Emirates Stadium during the halftime break, BBC Sport’s Alex Howell was full of praise for the clinical nature of Arsenal’s attack.

Speaking of Gyokeres’ strong first half performance, he said (via BBC Sport):

“That half was the best Arsenal have played for a good few weeks. Having Saka makes such a difference to the way they attack. That’s the best Gyokeres has played for Arsenal too.”

Fulham’s defence struggled to contain the movement of the front three, offering little in the way of resistance.

Howell suggested that the dominant opening 45 minutes should be more than enough for Mikel Arteta’s side to see the game out and move six points clear at the top of the table, barring a dramatic second-half collapse.

He added: “That should be enough for Arsenal to see this game out and move six points clear unless something dramatic happens in the second half.”

Wayne Rooney praises Gyokeres

Joining in on the praise, Wayne Rooney highlighted the importance of a traditional number nine during the high-pressure “run-in” of a title race.

Rooney emphasised that the Swede provides a focal point that Arsenal had occasionally lacked in previous seasons. He said on BBC One (via BBC Sport):

“I’ve liked Gyokeres all season. I think he does so well for the team. He occupies defenders and I think his goal tally has been good this season. This is when you need him now, during the run-in. This is what you need when you bring a no. 9 into the club. This is when you need them most.”

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Despite putting in decent numbers, his future remains uncertain with suggestions that Arsenal are open to selling him.

With a win set to extend the lead to six points, the pressure will once again be on Man City to play catch up, although they have two games in hand.

This is going to be a tight title race which could go down straight to the last day of the season.

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“All but agreed” – Pep Guardiola set to leave Manchester City with new manager already decided

2 May 2026 at 21:10

According to a prominent source on X, Pep Guardiola will step down at the end of this season, with everything in place for Enzo Maresca to take over.

The report suggests that Manchester City have quietly prepared for this transition, securing an in-depth agreement with the former Chelsea manager to return to the Etihad.

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Enzo Maresca set to takeover the reigns from Pep Guardiola

The report from the prominent source on X, Hands of Arsenal, indicates that the “direction of travel” within the club points toward a definitive exit for Guardiola.

Internal preparations are reportedly so advanced that discussions have even surfaced regarding naming a stand in his honor.

Despite the magnitude of this shift, mainstream sports journalism has remained quiet. The report attributes this silence to Guardiola’s “erratic nature,” suggesting that journalists fear a last-minute U-turn that could jeopardise their professional reputations.

While the club is expected to deny these claims, the framework for the “post-Pep” era is allegedly already finalised, with Maresca identified as the chosen successor to lead the tactical evolution.

My understanding is Pep Guardiola will step down at the end of the season with Enzo Maresca all but agreed to take charge next season.

Let me explain.

Everyone at their club knows this is the direction of travel and they have gone as far as to talk about naming a stand in his…

— HandofArsenal (@HandofArsenal) May 2, 2026

Why Enzo Maresca would be a great fit

Maresca is far from a stranger to the inner workings of the City Football Group.

Having served as Guardiola’s assistant during the historic Treble-winning campaign, he possesses an intimate understanding of the club’s philosophy and tactical demands.

His coaching style, often described as “Pep-lite,” emphasises positional play, inverted full-backs, and suffocating possession, elements already deeply embedded in the current squad’s DNA.

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By appointing Maresca, City would ensure continuity rather than a volatile rebuild, allowing the squad to transition seamlessly into a new era under a manager who knows the club quite well.

Pep Guardiola’s political stance suggests he is ready to leave Man City

Speculation regarding Guardiola’s departure has intensified, fueled not just by coaching fatigue but by his increasingly vocal stance on global issues.

Guardiola has recently used his platform to address sensitive political topics, including the oppression in Palestine and Sudan.

His comments on Sudan are particularly interesting given his current situation.

His willingness to speak out the Sudan issue, where the geopolitical interests of the club’s ownership indicates a man who is no longer concerned with how it reflects back to the club.

This perceived shift in his public persona aligns with the narrative that he is ready to walk away from the club whose owners have been accused of sponsoring the oppression in Sudan.

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Erling Haaland appears to aim subtle dig at Arsenal with three-word message after PSG-Bayern thriller

29 April 2026 at 01:59

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has sparked a social media frenzy following the Champions League semi-final thriller between PSG and Bayern Munich.

The Norwegian superstar posted a three-word message on his Snapchat that many believe is a pointed jab at Premier League rivals Arsenal and their defensive style of play.

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Erling Haaland’s social media praise for PSG-Bayern goal-fest

Haaland shared a photo of his television screen during the closing stages of the match at the Parc des Princes, with the scoreline at 5-3 in favor of the hosts (the match eventually finished 5-4). His caption was simple yet loaded: “This is football.”

Erling Haaland: “This is football”. ??? pic.twitter.com/9yWDE9HAIy

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 28, 2026

The match itself was a masterclass in attacking transition and relentless intent. Featuring star turns from Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Ousmane Dembele for PSG, and a fighting response from Bayern’s Harry Kane, Michael Olise and Luis Díaz, the encounter was a stark contrast to the tactical stalemates often seen in recent games.

By labeling the nine-goal spectacle as the “true” form of the sport, Haaland appeared to be celebrating the chaotic, offensive-minded nature of continental football.

However, in the context of recent domestic clashes, with  fans online were quick to interpret the post as a subtle dig at Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, who have often utilised a more rigid and defensive approach.

Mikel Arteta’s passive style under the microscope ahead of Atletico clash

Arsenal are set to face Atletico Madrid tomorrow in the second Champions League semi-final clash that is expected to be exact opposite of the PSG-Bayern thriller.

Mikel Arteta’s side and Diego Simeone’s Atletico share a reputation for prioritising defensive solidity and low-block resilience.

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Arsenal have conceded just five goals in 12 European matches this campaign, a testament to their passive but effective defensive structure.

For now, the Norwegian has let his social media do the talking as the world waits to see if the Arteta ball can yield the same success as the fireworks witnessed in Paris.

 

The post Erling Haaland appears to aim subtle dig at Arsenal with three-word message after PSG-Bayern thriller appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Liverpool urged to sacrifice Cody Gakpo in player-plus-cash deal to sign 40-goal monster ‘at all costs’

29 April 2026 at 01:16

Former Liverpool winger Jermaine Pennant has sent a clear message to the Anfield hierarchy: sign Michael Olise immediately.

Following the Frenchman’s electric performance in the first half of Bayern Munich’s Champions League semi-final against PSG, Pennant took to social media to demand that the Reds prioritise the winger as the definitive successor to Mohamed Salah.

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Olise, who has been in scintillating form since his move to the Bundesliga, was the standout performer at the Parc des Princes.

His 41st-minute stunner capped off a dominant first-half display, where his vision and technical flair left the PSG defense in tatters.

Pennant tells Liverpool to sign Michael Olise as Salah replacement

Writing on X, Pennant did not mince words regarding Liverpool’s summer recruitment strategy.

Pennant posted: “Liverpool go out and get Olise right now, at all costs. There is your replacement for Mo Salah. AT ALL COSTS. Any amount plus Gakpo.”

Liverpool go out and get Olise right now, at all costs. There is your replacement for Mo salah. AT ALL COSTS. Any amount plus gakpo.

— Jermaine Pennant (@pennant83) April 28, 2026

With Mohamed Salah set to leave the club at the end of the season, the need for a left-footed right-winger of elite caliber is huge.

Olise’s age (24) and current output, boasting 19 goals and 29 assists across all competitions this season (40 goals in 102 games for Bayern Munich), makes him the most logical candidate to fill the void.

Michael Olise is not for sale

However, Liverpool’s pursuit of the French international will not be easy.

Despite the growing noise from Merseyside, Bayern sporting director Max Eberl has shut down any possibility of a summer departure.

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Speaking to ZDF ahead of the PSG clash, Eberl was emphatic about Olise’s future at the Allianz Arena.

“Absolutely. For us, there is not a second of thinking about it. He is developing excellently,” Eberl stated, before describing the playmaker as “absolutely untouchable.”

? Bayern director Eberl: “Michel Olise is absolutely untouchable”.

“No chance, we didn’t think about it not even for a second”, told ZDF. pic.twitter.com/Ix72Qgqri0

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 26, 2026

Under manager Vincent Kompany, Olise has become the star man of a Bayern side.

With a contract that keeps him in Munich long-term, it would likely take a world-record fee for a winger to even bring Bayern to the negotiating table.

 

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Massive Tottenham blow: After Simons, another key player has now been ruled out for the rest of the season

28 April 2026 at 23:57

Tottenham’s campaign has descended into a full-blown medical emergency, with Dominic Solanke becoming the latest high-profile casualty to be ruled out for the remainder of the season.

The news, confirmed by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano and The Telegraph, marks a devastating blow for a squad already decimated by long-term absences.

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The former Bournemouth striker, who arrived in North London with high expectations, has officially been sidelined with a grade-two hamstring injury.

With the Premier League reaching its final stretch, the recovery timeline makes it virtually impossible for the forward to feature again before the summer break.

Dominic Solanke out for the rest of the season

The injury occurred during a period where Solanke was beginning to find his rhythm as the focal point of the attack.

Romano took to X to share the grim update, noting that Spurs staff “expect it to be difficult to see him involved again this season.”

He posted the following update: “After Kudus, Cuti Romero and Xavi Simons, also Dominic Solanke’s season could be over.He’s has suffered a grade-two hamstring injury, as Telegraph reported. Spurs expect to be difficult to see him involved again this season.”

? After Kudus, Cuti Romero and Xavi Simons, also Dominic Solanke’s season could be over.

He’s has suffered a grade-two hamstring injury, as Telegraph reported. Spurs expect to be difficult to see him involved again this season. pic.twitter.com/uldIVgXhnN

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 28, 2026

A grade-two tear typically requires a minimum of six to eight weeks of rehabilitation, effectively ending his maiden campaign at the club.

List of Tottenham injuries: Questions need to be asked

The loss of Solanke is not an isolated incident; it is merely the latest chapter in an unprecedented injury crisis at Hotspur Way.

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The treatment room is now overflowing with key players whose seasons have ended prematurely.

Player Position Injury Date of Injury Expected Return Games Missed
Dejan Kulusevski Attacking Midfield Knee surgery 12 May 2025 1 May 2026 51
Mohammed Kudus Right Winger Hamstring injury 4 Jan 2026 20
Ben Davies Centre-Back Ankle surgery 19 Jan 2026 16
Wilson Odobert Left Winger Cruciate ligament tear 10 Feb 2026 11
Cristian Romero Centre-Back Knee injury 12 Apr 2026 12 Jun 2026 7
Xavi Simons Attacking Midfield Cruciate ligament tear 25 Apr 2026 1 May 2027 5
Guglielmo Vicario Goalkeeper Surgery 23 Mar 2026 3
Pape Matar Sarr Central Midfield Shoulder injury 13 Apr 2026 2
Destiny Udogie Left-Back Muscle injury 20 Apr 2026 4 May 2026 2
Dominic Solanke Forward 25 Apr 2026

List of Tottenham injuries via Transfermarkt

With key defenders like Destiny Udogie also fighting for fitness, the sheer volume of soft-tissue and structural injuries has sparked intense debate about who needs to be held responsible.

Many fans have called for the overhaul of the entire medical team, specially after what they witnessed during the Simons injury, who has also been ruled out for the rest of the season with an ACL.

If Tottenham are to compete at the highest level in 2026/27, a thorough internal review of their conditioning department appears inevitable.

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