West Ham United striker could be heading to Serie A giants
Milan Step Up Fullkrug Pursuit as West Ham Talks Take Shape
AC Milan’s search for a centre-forward is beginning to crystallise ahead of the January transfer window, with Niclas Fullkrug emerging as a serious and increasingly concrete option. Senior figures inside the Milan hierarchy are now actively exploring the conditions of a potential deal, with contacts established both with West Ham United and the player’s representatives as momentum builds.
The 32-year-old Germany international has been under close observation for some time according to Calciomercarto, but recent developments suggest Milan are now prepared to move from monitoring to action. The need is clear, the profile is defined, and the timing is becoming critical as Milan look to stabilise an attack that has struggled for balance and continuity this season.
Milan Search Intensifies for January Striker
Milan’s January priority is unambiguous: secure a reliable central striker capable of leading the line immediately. Recent domestic performances have underlined the issue. Goals have arrived sporadically and often from unexpected sources, leaving too much responsibility on wide forwards and attacking midfielders.
Injuries and limited depth have exacerbated the problem, prompting Milan’s recruitment team to accelerate discussions around attainable targets. Fullkrug’s name has climbed steadily up the internal shortlist, driven by both sporting logic and market opportunity. His availability, combined with his experience at the highest level, makes him a compelling short-term solution for a club seeking instant impact rather than long-term development.
Fullkrug Profile Fits Milan Criteria
From Milan’s perspective, Fullkrug represents a blend of physical presence, tactical intelligence and elite-level experience. The former Borussia Dortmund forward has operated successfully in both Bundesliga and international football, offering a reference point in the box and an ability to occupy central defenders.
Contacts between Milan and Fullkrug’s agency are not new. Initial discussions took place as far back as last summer, laying groundwork that is now proving useful. Those earlier exchanges have helped Milan build a clear picture of the player’s expectations, contractual situation and willingness to consider a change of environment.
At West Ham, circumstances have shifted. Fullkrug remains under contract until 2028, but his role has been limited. Technical decisions, combined with a muscular issue that disrupted his rhythm in late autumn, have restricted his involvement. With minutes scarce and competition high, January is viewed internally as a realistic exit point should the right proposal arrive.
Tare Pushes to Secure Early Agreement
Sporting director Igli Tare is keen to move decisively. The objective is not necessarily to finalise every detail immediately, but to position Milan strongly by reaching a verbal understanding with the player and his camp. That would allow the club to manage negotiations with West Ham from a position of clarity rather than urgency.
Discussions are expected to continue on multiple fronts in the coming weeks. Milan are weighing up financial parameters carefully, aware that flexibility may exist given West Ham’s openness to reshaping their squad mid-season. For Milan, the emphasis is on securing a functional, cost-effective striker who can contribute straight away without destabilising the broader wage structure.
West Ham Future Remains Uncertain
Fullkrug’s time in England has yet to fully ignite. He has made nine appearances across all competitions, eight of them in the Premier League, totalling just over 400 minutes without registering a goal. While injuries and tactical preferences have played their part, there is a growing sense that his profile does not sit at the heart of West Ham’s long-term project.
That uncertainty has opened the door for Milan. The Rossoneri believe January could present a rare alignment of need, availability and affordability. Much will depend on the structure of any potential deal, but the intent is clear: Milan want to be ready to move quickly if conditions align.
With January approaching, Fullkrug’s situation is one to watch closely. Milan are accelerating, West Ham are listening, and a transfer that once felt speculative is now edging towards something far more tangible.
Manuel Neuer suffers another injury and will not play again this year!
The German national team will miss the services of its captain.
Getty Images
Bayern Munich's latest Bundesliga outing yielded a 2-2 draw against Mainz, but the result came at a significant price. The club has confirmed that captain and goalkeeper Manuel Neuer sustained a hamstring strain during the match. Reports from Bild indicate the injury will rule him out for the remainder of the calendar year.
Timeline for Return
Neuer's absence is expected to be short-lived, encompassing only one final fixture before the league's winter interval. He is set to miss the upcoming match against Heidenheim on Sunday, December 21st, with anticipation that he will regain fitness following the seasonal break.
Despite dropping points in the draw, Bayern Munich's position at the summit of the Bundesliga remains unchallenged. The club maintains a commanding nine-point advantage over its closest rivals, RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund.
Genoa 1-2 Inter Milan – Argentina Goal-Getter Joins Exclusive Striker Club With Superb Goal
Inter Milan center-forward Lautaro Martinez fired his side to a morale-boosting 2-1 win over Genoa on Sunday evening.
According to Corriere dello Sport via FCInter1908, El Toro reached an impressive milestone at Stadio Luigi Ferraris.
Cristian Chivu’s side bounced back from a controversial 1-0 defeat to Liverpool in midweek Champions League action.
Indeed, Yann Bisseck and Lautaro Martinez catapulted the Nerazzurri to their third successive Serie A win yesterday.
Lautaro Martinez Reaches Important Feat in Genoa 1-2 Inter Milan Victory
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 06: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Semi Final Second Leg match between FC Internazionale Milano and FC Barcelona at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 06, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Lautaro’s phenomenal left-footed finish extended his Serie A tally to eight goals this season.
Therefore, the Argentine is now the division’s top scorer, moving one goal clear of AC Milan’s Christian Pulisic.
In addition to his decent scoring exploits, the 28-year-old striker also boasts three Serie A assists this term.
For that reason, the Nerazzurri captain has joined an elite club of only four players to make 10+ goal contributions in seven straight campaigns.
Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe, and Harry Kane complete this star-studded list, highlighting El Toro’s remarkable consistency.
Raphinha sees his future nowhere but on the pitch at Camp Nou. As FC Barcelona continues its sporting rebuild, the Brazilian winger has made his intentions clear: stay until he achieves the one goal still missing from his Catalan journey—the Champions League. It's a strong, deliberate choice in a context where his profile is constantly drawing attention in the transfer market.
‼️BREAKING: Raphinha will not leave Barcelona without winning the Champions League first.
Since his arrival in Catalonia, the former Leeds player has established himself as a reliable and decisive asset. His track record with Barça already shows real contribution to domestic success, with several major trophies collected over the seasons. But internally, this success still feels incomplete to him.
At 29, Raphinha knows time is tight, but he's not giving in to impatience. Convinced that Barcelona can become a European powerhouse again, he stands firmly in the club's ambitious tradition and embraces his role as a demanding competitor, focused on a single summit.
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations takes place across December this year and January 2026 in Morocco.
Ivory Coast enter the tournament as defending champions after winning the 2023 final last February against Nigeria.
The draw for the group stage was held in Rabat, the host city of the final, on January 27. The 24 teams were placed into six groups of four, from which the top two — plus the best three teams that finish third in their pools — will progress to the knockout phase.
A total of 24 nations qualified for the AFCON finals. The teams were split into four pots for the draw, with one team from each pot placed into each of the groups.
Fede Valverde reveals advice to Real Madrid teammate – “Before the game I told him…”
Real Madrid saw off Alaves by a 2-1 scoreline on Sunday, as they kept pace with Barcelona in the La Liga title race. It was not a convincing performance, but in the circumstances, the result was the most important thing for Los Blancos.
This was made clear by Fede Valverde, who spoke to the media following the match at Mendizorroza, as per Diario AS.
“Today it was very important to continue fighting for La Liga, with many casualties due to injuries and expulsions. But the team brought out the pride, that desire to fight and fight. And we took three very important points.
“We were very clear that we had to go out to win, to fight for those three key points to continue fighting for La Liga. The team insisted, fought until the end. We worked with great pride. In the first half, before the 0-1, we were playing very well and then we retreated a lot defensively. It was difficult for us to come out with the ball played. But we found a great goal from Rodrygo and we were able to win.”
Federico Valverde of Real Madrid looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Madrid CF and RCD Espanyol. (Image via Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Valverde advice to Victor Valdepenas
Valverde also heaped praise on Victor Valdepenas, who made his Real Madrid debut at left-back.
“I want to congratulate Valdepeñas, who played a great game in their debut. We are very close to him. Hopefully several young people from the academy continue to have many more opportunities. It’s always nice that they make their debut and it’s a dream for them. We are going to support him in whatever it takes.
“It’s simple, or at least it seems so, but he has to enjoy it. Playing for Real Madrid is something unique, dreamed of, that all young people in the world want. To be able to play for this club. Before the game I told him to enjoy and value what it is like to play for Real Madrid. He did it spectacularly, he valued it and defended the shield like never before. And well, we’re happy for him.”
Man City vs Brentford: Match preview, head-to-head, team news, key players
Manchester City host Brentford at the Etihad Stadium in the Carabao Cup quarter-final on Wednesday evening.
City came back from behind to beat Championship side Swansea City 3-1 in the fourth round, while Brentford won 5-0 at Grimsby Town.
Match preview
This marks the second meeting between City and Brentford this term, following their Premier League clash in October, which the Cityzens won 1-0.
Heading into this game, City will aim to build on their 3-0 win at Crystal Palace, keeping pace with Arsenal at the top of the league standings.
The Cityzens have won their last five games across all competitions, showcasing ruthlessness in attack, scoring 16 goals, while also displaying defensive frailties, conceding seven.
City dug deep to beat Brentford last time out and might have to do the same again, particularly with manager Pep Guardiola likely to rotate his side.
Brentford were held to a 1-1 draw by Leeds United in the league on Sunday. They have just one win from their last five matches, scoring five goals and letting in eight.
The Bees are expected to sit deep and look to exploit Man City’s defence through set-pieces and counter-attacks.
Brentford would need a resilient display to edge a free-scoring City side and reach the semi-final of the competition for the second time.
Head-to-head
City have faced Brentford twice in this competition, winning one and losing the other.
They have met 19 times across all competitions, with City having 11 wins, Brentford winning six times, and two ending in draws.
Team news
Rodri and Mateo Kovacic remain out for City, but Jeremy Doku and John Stones are doubts. Omar Marmoush and Ryan Aït-Nouri are unavailable due to their Africa Cup of Nations involvement.
For Brentford, Kevin Schade should be available, and Reiss Nelson could also be named in the matchday squad. Dango Ouattara and Frank Onyeka have departed for AFCON.
Key players
Man City
Erling Haaland: The Norwegian has scored four goals in six games against Brentford.
Phil Foden: He is this fixture’s top scorer with seven goals in eight games.
Brentford
Igor Thiago: The Bees’ top scorer across all competitions, with 12 goals.
Hakon Valdimarsson: The goalkeeper has kept two clean sheets in the Carabao Cup.
Stats from transfermarkt.com, fbref.com & sofascore.com
1982 FIFA World Cup Winner Urges Inter Milan To Buy ‘Someone Like Conceicao’ In January
Francesco Graziani has told Inter Milan to reinforce their squad in the January transfer window to bolster their Scudetto chances.
Speaking to La Domenica Sportiva via FCInter1908, Graziani offered his verdict on Inter’s performance at Genoa last night.
Therefore, the Nerazzurri provided a perfect response to a gut-wrenching Champions League defeat to Liverpool.
Moreover, Cristian Chivu’s men will head into the Supercoppa Italiana as the new Serie A pacesetters.
Indeed, they’ve leapfrogged AC Milan and Napoli at the summit on the back of their third consecutive league win.
Though Inter controlled the tempo for most of the game, they lost their rhythm in the final half-hour.
As such, Graziani urged Beppe Marotta and Piero Ausilio to address Inter’s shortcomings during the winter transfer window.
Francesco Graziani Tells Inter Milan to Strengthen Their Squad in January
LUGANO, SWITZERLAND – JULY 12: FC Internazionale Sportif Director Milano Piero Ausilio looks on before Pre-season Friendly between FC Lugano v FC Internazionale at Cornaredo Stadium on July 12, 2022 in Lugano, Switzerland. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“Liverpool is a great team, and Inter rose to the occasion,” Graziani said.
Asked when the Nerazzurri become vulnerable, he replied: “When they think they’re stronger than everyone else and feel there’s no need to sacrifice themselves to chase the ball.
“In the first half against Genoa, they pressed incredibly, and Lautaro was pressing everyone.
“When Inter plays like that, they are the strongest team in the league.
“However, watch out for Napoli because when their injured players return, they will be a tough obstacle.
“Does Chivu help everyone improve? We’ll have to see over time; right now it’s a bit of a rollercoaster.”
Finally, he offered a piece of advice to Marotta and Ausilio ahead of the January transfer window.
“What I would suggest to two extraordinary managers like Marotta and Ausilio is to look at players like Conceicao or Politano; quick players who can beat their man.
“Think about them in January. It wouldn’t be wrong.
“There are moments when Inter plays with blinders on and always tries to break through in the same areas.
🎥 Worth watching again and again: Leverkusen’s backheel goal brings joy
You just can’t watch this scorpion kick often enough! Because Martin Terrier scored a stunning dream goal against 1. FC Köln, which the club has now shared again on its social media channels.
Was it perhaps even the best goal of the Bundesliga first half of the 2025/26 season? Or was there an even better one? Feel free to share your opinion in the comments.
🎙️Flick: Joan Garcia rests tomorrow, Ter Stegen? It's up to him
Hansi Flick addressed the media before tomorrow's cup match in Guadalajara in a press conference marked by sporting and contractual doubts regarding the goalkeeper position.
"Joan García will rest tomorrow. First, I want to talk to the players, and before the match, I will announce who will play. Today is not the day to make decisions," he explained regarding the uncertainty of whether to give the goalkeeping duties to Ter Stegen or Szczesny.
Regarding a possible departure of the German international in the winter market, Flick preferred not to take sides. "It's his decision. We have talked about his situation. I respect him because he is a fantastic goalkeeper and a good team player," he reflected.
❝Aún no he decidido ni el portero ni el once titular. Joan descansará mañana.❞
The Pole has not trained, but Flick does not rule out his call-up yet. "We always think about trying different options in the forward position. Some can play there, like Rashford or Fermín," he explains.
"It will be decided tomorrow. Lewandowski has trained individually," he specified about the number nine.
And regarding Real Madrid's protests about adverse refereeing decisions, he reflected: "Sometimes you think they could do better, but other times they do a fantastic job. They make mistakes, but overall they do a good job. I must focus on my own, see what we can improve. I don't want to speak for others."
"It's the best we can do because referees are under a lot of pressure, and it's not fair to put more pressure on them."
Flick talks Joan Garcia, Ter Stegen, Szczesny, Lewandowski, Real Madrid ahead of Guadalajara vs Barcelona
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick faced the media ahead of the Copa del Rey clash against CD Guadalajara, using the press conference to clarify his thinking on several matters related to the match.
With Barcelona entering a decisive phase of the season, Flick struck a calm but demanding tone throughout.
Speaking first about the challenge posed by Guadalajara, Flick made it clear that he does not believe the competition or setting should change Barcelona’s mentality.
“It’s the same. We have to play as we do in La Liga, we’re the favourite,s and that’s what I want to see from the team, I want to see quality,” he began saying.
The goalkeeping situation
Uncertainty remains around the starting lineup, particularly in goal.
When asked directly about the goalkeeper for the match, Flick refused to be drawn into early decisions, explaining,
“We haven’t decided yet. We don’t know the starting eleven. We’ll have 24 more hours to recover and we’ll decide tomorrow.”
Joan Garcia will be rested. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
Flick acknowledged the complexity of managing three elite goalkeepers while reiterating the current order.
“He [Ter Stegen] competes on equal terms. He’s a fantastic goalkeeper. We have three great players and I’m delighted.
“It’s clear what I said before, Joan is number one. Tek had a fantastic season last year. For me, Tek is a very important player.”
On whether he would understand if Ter Stegen chose to stay and fight for his place, Flick showed empathy and respect for the player’s position.
“It’s his decision. We have talked about his situation and I respect him. He’s a fantastic goalkeeper and a very good player, and he’s also a great person.”
Discussing Garcia specifically, Flick suggested rest could be on the cards but again stressed patience.
“Joan Garcia will rest tomorrow. First, I want to talk to the players and then we’ll decide who will start. I want to wait until tomorrow because we’re in a recovery period.”
Rotation and key positions
Rotation was another major topic, especially with key fixtures coming up. Flick confirmed changes were likely but made his priorities clear, saying,
“That will also be decided tomorrow, of course, it could happen.
“Lewandowski, we’ll see how he is tomorrow. We’re going to change something, but we want to win, that’s the most important thing.”
Lewandowski is a doubt for this game. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
If Lewandowski is unavailable, Flick revealed Barcelona have multiple internal solutions for the number nine role.
“We always think about it. There are several players who can play there. Fermin, Marcus… they can play there.”
Real Madrid and the recent controversy
Asked about recent complaints from Real Madrid regarding refereeing, Flick chose diplomacy and perspective. He responded,
“We all know that refereeing is part of the game. Without referees, we can’t play. Sometimes you think they could have done better, but other times they do a fantastic job.
“Everyone makes mistakes. Referees are under a lot of pressure and it’s not fair.”
Finally, Flick reflected on Barcelona’s season so far and how it compares to last year. Highlighting progress after adversity, he concluded,
“We’ve suffered a lot in the last two months due to injuries. We’re halfway through the season and we have a lot of room for improvement.
“That’s our goal: to improve with every game. This is the way we want to continue,” he concluded.
With the Africa Cup of Nations now imminent, let’s look at how Arsenal and their upcoming opponents will be impacted by international call-ups.
Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images
The first game of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations takes place this weekend, with Morocco facing Comoros on Sunday, December 21st, but December 15th is the date FIFA have set for players to be released from club duties to link up with their national teams.
That means from now until the end of the group stage on December 31st, any players called up for one of the teams involved at AFCON won’t be able to feature in club games. Possibly even longer if their teams progress through the tournament.
The good news for Arsenal is that they don’t have any call-ups this time, but it’s a different story with many of their upcoming opponents. Let’s run through them one by one.
December 20th – PL – Everton (A)
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
Arsenal will travel away to face an Everton side on Saturday without Iliman Ndiaye and Idrissa Gueye, both of whom have been called up by Senegal.
Ndiaye has started every Premier League fixture for Everton this season, and Gueye has only missed the three for which he was suspended. So those are significant losses for this weekend’s hosts.
December 23rd – League Cup – Crystal Palace (H)
Ismaila Sarr will be unavailable for Crystal Palace for the League Cup quarter-finals, having been called up by Senegal. Nigeria didn’t called up Christantus Uche, so he remains available.
Sarr has been a regular starter for Palace this season, and only Jean-Philippe Mateta (with nine) has scored more than his eight goals.
December 27th – PL – Brighton & Hove Albion (H)
Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images
For the third game in a row, Arsenal will face a team without one of their key players, with Carlos Baleba having been called up by Cameroon. Baleba has started 14 of 16 Premier League fixtures this season.
December 30th – PL – Aston Villa (H)
Arsenal will need to try and take revenge on Aston Villa against a full-strength squad, because none of their players have been called up yet. However, Evann Guessand is on Ivory Coast’s standby list in case of any withdrawals.
January 3rd – PL – AFC Bournemouth (A)
Bournemouth won’t be without anyone either. Antoine Semenyo is a Ghana regular, but Ghana didn’t qualify, and Morocco didn’t call up Amine Adli.
January 8th – PL – Liverpool (H)
Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images
Mohamed Salah has been the man making headlines for Liverpool recently, and it’s unclear whether or not he’ll miss this game against Arsenal. He’s been called up by Egypt, but whether that rules him out of the Arsenal clash depends on whether or not they make it to the quarter-finals.
A group stage exit would definitely have Salah back in time, a round-of-16 exit might. Whether Salah is actually playing for Liverpool upon his return is another matter.
January 11th – FA Cup – Portsmouth (A)
Portsmouth don’t have any players involved at AFCON.
January 17th – PL – Nottingham Forest (A)
Willy Boly and Ibrahim Sangare have both been called up by the Ivory Coast, so if they make it to the semi-finals, then they’ll miss the Arsenal game to play in either the final or the third-place play-off.
Boly hasn’t been starting for Forest anyway, but Sangare would be a miss.
January 20th – CL – Inter Milan (A)
By this point, AFCON will be over. Given Inter Milan haven’t received any call-ups, there’s no possibility that one of their players might miss the Arsenal game for the final on January 18th.
January 25th – PL – Manchester United (H)
Noussair Mazaoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo have all been called up for AFCON, so this might be their first match back in action for their club if any of their teams make it to the final/third-place play-off. But none of the three should miss the Arsenal game.
AFCON: these nations still absent from the final stage
AFCON: these countries have never participated
As the 2025 AFCON in Morocco draws near, a persistent reality remains in African football. While the tournament regularly brings together the continent’s football powerhouses, some national teams have yet to experience the thrill of a final stage, despite the numerous editions played over the years.
To this day, ten countries have never taken part in the Africa Cup of Nations. They are Chad, Djibouti, Eritrea, Eswatini, Lesotho, Somalia, Seychelles, Central African Republic, South Sudan and São Tomé and Príncipe.
Whether due to a lack of infrastructure, institutional instability, or developmental challenges, these nations continue to fight for a breakthrough in qualifying, hoping that one day their name will be written into the continental showdown.
Zaidu Sanusi arrives at the Super Eagles camp: Will he be among the starting eleven at AFCON 2025?
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The Super Eagles’ training base in Cairo has welcomed another key addition, with FC Porto defender Zaidu Sanusi joining the squad. His arrival brings the total number of players on the ground to eleven, as the Nigerian national team continues its preparations for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The team’s assembly is set for a significant boost in the coming days. According to official communications, a further contingent of twelve players is scheduled to join the camp on Monday, December 15th, as the training regimen intensifies ahead of the continental tournament.
Current Squad Members in Camp
The players currently present include Francis Izobo, Stanley Nwabali, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Akinsanmiro Ebenezer, Amas Obasogie, Semi Ajayi, Ademola Lookman, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Igho Ogbu, Tochukwu Nnadi, and the newly-arrived Zaidu Sanusi.
Are Milan facing another Donnarumma scenario with Maignan?
With Mike Maignan’s contract expiring in June 2026, Gazzetta warns that Milan could end up losing the Frenchman on a free transfer, as it happened with Gigio Donnarumma in 2021, but the Rossoneri still hope the story will end differently this time.
Milan will continue talks to extend Maignan’s contract in the next few days, but January is just around the corner, which means the French goalkeeper can start negotiations with any other club in just a few days and complete a free transfer at the end of the season.
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 14: Gianluigi Donnarumma of Manchester City warms up prior to the Premier League match between Manchester City and Manchester United at Etihad Stadium on September 14, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Milan faced the same situation a few years ago, when lengthy talks to extend with Donnarumma led nowhere, so the Rossoneri signed Maignan from Lille before Gigio’s free move to PSG.
Maignan’s contract extension a priority for Milan
BERGAMO, ITALY – OCTOBER 28: Mike Maignan of AC Milan reacts during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and AC Milan at New Balance Arena on October 28, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
It is no secret that Maignan attracted interest from Chelsea last summer, and according to Gazzetta, the Milan star still has many admirers in the Premier League.
Milan are aware that every suitor of Maignan, especially from England, will outbid them in contract negotiations with the 30-year-old, but the Serie A giants still hope to secure an agreement in the coming weeks.
Maignan’s contract extension is a priority for Milan, and even coach Massimiliano Allegri is trying to persuade the Frenchman to sign a new deal, Football Italia understands.
What Tare said about Maignan
UDINE, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 20: Igli Tare, Sporting director of AC Milan looks on prior to the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and AC Milan at Stadio Friuli on September 20, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
Igli Tare said on Sunday that the club would soon resume negotiations with the Frenchman, who was “happy” to stay at San Siro. Tare, however, denied that Maignan has demanded a new €8m-a-year contract.
“We’ve never discussed the figures, I’ve never heard these numbers, but it’s easy to talk about Mike because he’s a fantastic lad, he’s a leader and a man of the group,” said the Milan sporting director.
“We are happy with him, he likes to stay at Milan and Milan want to extend. Today we have a game we want to win, then we’ll have time to discuss the matter.”
Cristian Chivu Throws Turkey Midfielder’s Supercoppa Italiana Availability Into Doubt: “To Be Evaluated”
Inter Milan manager Cristian Chivu is unsure whether Hakan Calhanoglu would be ready for the upcoming Supercoppa Italiana.
During last night’s conference via FCInterNews, the 45-year-old delivered an update on the Turkish midfielder’s fitness.
Hakan Calhanoglu was on the sidelines as Inter squeezed past Genoa on Sunday evening to regain top spot in Serie A.
Indeed, the 31-year-old sustained a muscle injury against Liverpool last week, forcing him to skip yesterday’s game.
Despite Calhanoglu’s absence, Inter beat Genoa 2-1 at Stadio Luigi Ferraris.
Yann Bisseck and Lautaro Martinez were on the scoresheet for the Nerazzurri, while Piotr Zielinski deputized for the Turk.
However, with the Italian Super Cup around the corner, Chivu is desperate to have his talismanic playmaker back from injury.
Inter will take on reigning Coppa Italia champions Bologna in an exciting semi-final in Riyadh this Friday.
But they might be without the former AC Milan star.
Cristian Chivu Unsure Whether Hakan Calhanoglu Will Feature in Supercoppa Italiana
VERONA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 02: Hakan Calhanoglu of FC Internazionale during the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and FC Internazionale at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on November 02, 2025 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Asked to provide an update on Matteo Darmian and Calhanoglu, Cristian Chivu replied: “Darmian will travel with us, but he won’t be fit.
“Calhanoglu has a minor issue that will be assessed over the next few days.”
Then, Chivu hailed his entire squad, refusing to praise just Bisseck, who was superb last night.
“You talk about Bisseck, but I also want to mention De Vrij, Frattesi, and all the others.
“It’s a healthy group with a lot of desire and quality. They can do even better, and that’s the most important thing.
“Perfection doesn’t exist,” Chivu added. “I liked the performance in a difficult stadium against a team that’s been in good shape since the new coach arrived.
“We showed quality and character, which is fundamental because we raised the intensity of our work, also from a competitive standpoint.
“We conceded a goal we should have avoided. There were a few risks we didn’t need to take.”
Cristian Chivu Rubs Inter Milan Win into Critics’ Faces
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – JUNE 21: Cristian Chivu, Head Coach of FC Internazionale Milano, looks on during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group E match between FC Internazionale Milano and Urawa Red Diamonds at Lumen Field on June 21, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
Chivu hit back at critics who wrote Inter off months ago.
“We’ll take the performance, the character, and the work done over these months.
“Everything that we are, despite a few months ago, people writing us off or putting us eighth in the table.
“Instead, with work and with the quality this group has, we go toe to toe every time, and we’ll always try to do our best.”
Finally, he delivered his verdict on Inter’s disjointed display in the final half-hour.
“From a competitive point of view, we showed our mantra of raising the intensity for all 90 minutes,” he cnontinued. “We’ve been doing it for a while now.
“We did it against Lazio, Como, in Madrid and against Liverpool.
“Then this is a team with quality, and if a bit of ruthlessness in front of goal is missing, that’s something to improve.
“Sometimes they do the practical things. In the end, I was a player too, and I know it’s not easy to take certain things away.
“But since we arrived, the lads have listened to me and have always tried to meet my demands in terms of character.”
Abdeslam Ouaddou changes his mind regarding the January transfer window: What has changed?
The Moroccan man seems to have found solutions to many problems.
Abdeslam Ouaddou changes his mind regarding the January transfer window: What has changed?
Despite earlier press reports indicating that the Moroccan coach wanted several reinforcements for his team at the start of the season, it seems that something has drastically changed in the manager's thinking. Previously, the Moroccan coach had stated that the team would need a striker in January, but it appears that something has indeed changed in his perspective, forcing him to alter his plans.
The Orlando Pirates coach completely changes his mind!
In the past few weeks, Sifiso Luthuli, a graduate of the Orlando Pirates academy, has impressed the Moroccan coach. The 24-year-old player has caught the coach's eye and appears to be the ideal solution for the team. Amidst the absence of his core squad on national team duty, Ouaddou was compelled to field several squad players for the Carling All Stars match. Among them, Luthuli seized his moment decisively. Introduced from the bench, the forward needed only five minutes to open the scoring at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Bayern Munich will have to manage without captain Manuel Neuer when they take on 1. FC Heidenheim in their final game of 2025 on Sunday.
The German champions confirmed on Monday that the veteran goalkeeper suffered a muscle tear in his right thigh during Bayern’s 2-2 draw with Mainz on Sunday.
In Neuer’s absence, 22-year-old Jonas Urbig is set to start in goal against Heidenheim.
The young goalkeeper has already featured in four matches for the Bavarians this season.
Sunday’s draw leaves Bayern nine points clear of RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund, who sit second and third respectively, ahead of the upcoming round of fixtures.
Vinicius Junior slams non-penalty decision against Alaves – “He doesn’t whistle because it’s me”
Despite winning 2-1 at Alaves on Sunday, Real Madrid felt they had been hard done by upon leaving Mendizorroza. They were denied a late penalty that would have given them the chance to seal the points, but neither the on-field referee nor VAR signalled for a foul on Vinicius Junior.
Vinicius went down inside the penalty under a challenge from Alaves defender Nahuel Tenaglia, but nothing was given by referee Victor Garcia Verdura, with VAR in agreement with the on-field decision. Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso made it clear that he did not agree, and his Brazilian superstar was in agreement.
🚨🚨📽 الكواليس |
▪️تشابي لـ فينيسيوس : "إنها واضحة .. إنها واضحة".
▪️فينيسيوس: "لم يطلق الصافرة ويحتسبها لأنها فقط ضدي أنا، إنها ركلة جزاء واضحة". 🤷 pic.twitter.com/osZKL18QxD
Penalty decision capped off frustrating match for Vinicius
It was a frustrating evening for Vinicius in Vitoria, as he struggled to make an impact throughout his time on the pitch. However, he did come up with a big moment when he generated a fine assist for Rodrygo Goes’ winning goal in the second half, which underlined that his decisiveness is among the best in the Real Madrid squad.
On the whole, the first half of the season has been a difficult one for Vinicius, but he has shown signs of getting back to his best level. Real Madrid will hope he can during the second half of the campaign.
In an interview with the official website of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the Leopards’ tactician shared his thoughts on DR Congo’s group at CAN 2025, which includes Senegal, Benin, and Botswana.
“As with every edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, the groups are extremely tough. No matter the draw, you always find very strong teams. Senegal is one of the best African sides—arguably the best at the moment,” he stated.
The Leopards’ coach then touched on Benin: “It’s a team I know well. The country has implemented a genuine development program over several years, and it’s starting to yield results—especially in local football—under the guidance of Gernot Rohr, an excellent coach.”
On Botswana, Desabre issued a warning: “They’re a tough team to face. They proved it in their recent matches, especially against Algeria during the qualifiers.”
Contrairement aux autres nations qui vont disputer la CAN , La RDC 🇨🇩 n’a pas de problème ni des polémiques. Certains ont essayé de créer une polémique concernant les locaux mais c’est un faux débat.
Desabre discusses the Leopards’ challenges at CAN 2025
Asked about DR Congo’s ambitions for this continental tournament, the 49-year-old coach was both cautious and confident.
“The first objective is to get through the group stage, which is fundamental. Once we reach the round of 16, we’ll be entering a decisive phase. We have a squad capable of going far in this competition.”
To conclude, Sébastien Desabre highlighted the unpredictable nature of the AFCON: “The balance of power is always shifting. The draw is important and no team— not even favorites like Morocco or Senegal— is guaranteed the title. The history of the CAN is full of surprises. Our ambition is to prove that what we achieved in Côte d’Ivoire wasn’t a one-off, but the start of a solid, lasting project.”
Former Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers close to agreement to become Al Qadsiah boss
Former Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers is set to become the manager of Saudi Pro League side Al Qadsiah, according to The Athletic. Rodgers has been out of work since resigning as Celtic manager in October and the Hoops have replaced him with Wilfried Nancy at the Parkhead club. The Northern Irishman has jetted out to Saudi to finalise the deal, and it could become official before the end of this week. Celtic initially appointed Martin O’Neill on an interim basis after Rodgers’ exit, but they brought in Nancy earlier this month and he has struggled.
The Bhoys lost 3-1 to St Mirren in the Scottish League Cup final yesterday and some fans would have been wishing Rodgers waited until the end of the season before leaving. He won four Scottish Premiership titles, three Scottish Cups and four Scottish League Cups with Celtic, and his achievements with the Hoops played a key role when Al Qadsiah opted for him ahead of others. The billionaire-owned club also love his style of play and philosophy, and Rodgers will be desperate to hit the ground running in the Middle East.
Key Barcelona star set for rest in Copa del Rey clash; veteran ace to replace him
FC Barcelona will take on CD Guadalajara in the Round of 32 of the 2025/26 Copa del Rey on Tuesday night, hoping to continue their winning momentum.
However, given the packed fixture schedule, Barcelona manager Hansi Flick is expected to make some major rotations for the game and rest some of his key players for the cup tie.
Joan Garcia will be given a breather; Szczesny to start
As such, Javi Miguel of AS reports that key Barcelona star and first-choice goalkeeper Joan Garcia will be rested by the manager against Guadalajara.
The 24-year-old summer arrival will either be left on the bench or might not even travel with the rest of the squad for the Copa del Rey encounter.
So far, Garcia has played 14 matches in all competitions in his debut season for Barcelona, proving to be an excellent piece of business with his crucial saves. And after a run of games since his return from injury, the Spaniard will get a rest on Tuesday.
Szczesny to start in goal. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
Now, the main question is who the German coach will choose to start in goal for the Copa opener, with Garcia in line for a rest.
And, as per the report, it is Wojciech Szczesny who will get the nod over first captain Marc-Andre ter Stegen in goal in the cup tie.
A clearer picture should emerge during Flick’s press conference later today, but as things stand, Szczesny looks like the one who will feature against Guadalajara.
Vanoli on the brink as Fiorentina at risk of Serie B relegation
Multiple sources in Italy claim that Fiorentina are considering sacking their coach, Paolo Vanoli, after barely a month from his appointment, as the Tuscans are still winless in Serie A and have lost four matches from seven under the 53-year-old.
Several Italian sources, including Gazzetta and Corriere dello Sport, claim that Fiorentina coach Vanoli is on the brink and could be sacked just one month after replacing Stefano Pioli at the Stadio Franchi.
Fiorentina could sack Vanoli after latest loss
FLORENCE, ITALY – NOVEMBER 27: Head coach Paolo Vanoli manager of ACF Fiorentina looks on during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between ACF Fiorentina and AEK Athens FC at Stadio Artemio Franchi on November 27, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
The Tuscans have only collected six points in 15 Serie A matches and are the only winless team in the league.
Fiorentina hired Vanoli on November 7 to replace Pioli, but the appointment of the ex-Torino and Venezia coach clearly hasn’t produced the desired results.
Fiorentina collected draws against Genoa and Juventus under Violi and lost to Sassuolo, Atalanta and Verona. They lost at home against AEK Athens in the Conference League, but at least managed to beat Dynamo Kyiv.
Fiorentina tension skyrockets
FLORENCE, ITALY – NOVEMBER 27: Fan of ACF Fiorentina during the UEFA Conference League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between ACF Fiorentina and AEK Athens FC at Stadio Artemio Franchi on November 27, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
According to Corriere dello Sport, ex-Fiorentina coach Giuseppe Iachini has emerged as one of the early options to replace Vanoli, but the club are currently making their assessments.
Tension in town is so high that Gazzetta reports that the team was taken to the training centre Viola Park on black tinted vans rather than on the team bus after the game yesterday.
Fiorentina fans protested inside and outside the stadium, blaming the players and club directors Alessandro Ferrari and Roberto Goretti, who are currently at the Viola training ground where the team has to prepare for the upcoming Conference League match against Lausanne.
Kaizer Chiefs should sign one of Mamelodi Sundowns' players next January!
Amakhosi must support their team for the current season.
Kaizer Chiefs should sign one of Mamelodi Sundowns' players next January!
"Sphelele Mkhulise is at a career crossroads," observes a football insider, reflecting on the attacking midfielder's limited role at Mamelodi Sundowns. "With only five appearances in their 25 matches this season, his need for a fresh start is evident."
Despite openings created by Lucas Ribeiro's departure and Themba Zwane's injuries, Mkhulise found himself further down the pecking order. Instead of turning to the Pietermaritzburg-born player, Sundowns opted to reinforce his position by signing Nuno Santos and Katlego Ntsabeleng.
This scenario presents a compelling opportunity for Kaizer Chiefs, according to the analysis. The argument is not about finding a direct replacement for their young star, Mduduzi Shabalala. "Shabalala's talent is undeniable, showcased for Bafana Bafana and in continental football," the narrative continues. "But the weight of carrying Amakhosi's creative hopes at just 21 is a heavy burden, one that can inadvertently hinder his natural development."
The proposed solution is a strategic partnership. "Bringing in an experienced campaigner like Mkhulise, with over 180 senior matches under his belt, would be an investment in Shabalala's future," the insider suggests. "It would provide crucial mentorship, share the creative responsibility, and allow the young talent to flourish without constant pressure, fostering a healthier environment for his growth."
With a January move appearing likely for Mkhulise, the conclusion is clear: "For Kaizer Chiefs, reviving Mkhulise's career could be the key to unlocking the full potential of their own prized asset."
In an exciting contest at San Siro, AC Milan were held to a 2-2 draw by Sassuolo. The standout performer was Davide Bartesaghi, who bagged a brace for Massimiliano Allegri's men. His double lit up the pitch and ignited the packed stands, as more than 73,000 Rossoneri supporters inside San Siro celebrated the first Serie A goals of the young defender, a product of AC Milan's youth sector.
Bartesaghiopened the scoring for AC Milan in the 34th minute, finishing clinically from a Loftus-Cheek assist. Davide was not done there, adding his second shortly after the restart (47'), this time set up by Nkunku, to momentarily put AC Milan in front. His eye for goal and constant attacking presence, combined with his quality in possession and ability to deliver from wide areas, caused problems for the opposition defence throughout the match.
It was a day when Davide proved himself a key figure for the team, with his performance driving AC Milan in a demanding contest. A couple of historical notes highlight the significance of his display: it was the youngest brace by a Rossoneri player in Serie A since September 2012 (El Shaarawy), and he also became the youngest defender to score for AC Milan in the league since February 1988 (Maldini).
By a huge margin - over 95% of the votes - Bartesaghi was named MVP by the fans on AC Milan's official App, ahead of Modrić, Rabiot, and Saelemaekers. It was yet another outstanding performance in what has been an excellent season for him, giving plenty of reason for optimism ahead of the upcoming matches. Well done, Davide - keep it up!
Match Kits, clothing, accessories, gift ideas and much more: visit the AC Milan online Store!
Pep Guardiola criticises Phil Foden’s Crystal Palace display in worrying message to Thomas Tuchel
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola was not pleased with Phil Foden’s overall performance in Sunday’s 3-0 win over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
Foden was on the scoresheet for the Blues as Pep Guardiola and co maintained the pressure on Premier League leaders Arsenal with a hard-fought yet convincing triumph in south London to round off a demanding week.
Off the back of a monumental UEFA Champions League comeback win against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu, Guardiola made just one change to his starting XI as City were put to the test against a well-drilled Crystal Palace side who could and arguably should have scored at least a few against Gianluigi Donnarumma.
The scoreline from Selhurst Park far from reflected the story of the encounter, as Manchester City failed to contain the Eagles’ attacking threat for large periods, though the Blues dug in and made their chances count to remind the rest of the division why they have been so successful under Guardiola over the years.
City made a sluggish start to the 2025-26 Premier League campaign and entered the September international break in the bottom half of the table courtesy of losses to Tottenham and Brighton in their opening trio of league games.
The Blues have since turned a corner and earned a mention as title contenders, with Phil Foden’s resurgence at the heart of their turn in fortunes as the 25-year-old looks back to his best after a difficult year on and off the pitch owing to physical and mental issues.
Foden has been a regular feature in Manchester City’s starting XI since September and has bailed his boyhood club out of jail with a series of crucial, match-winning performances in recent weeks, including a last-minute winner over Leeds United and a brace away at Fulham.
The England international was again on the scoresheet on Sunday, scoring City’s second in exquisite Phil Foden fashion, taking his tally to six goals in four Premier League games, though Guardiola was far from pleased with the Stockport-born forward’s overall game.
“Today he didn’t do a good game, he didn’t play good. He lost a lot of balls, so in a rush in every action. Phil has to be more tempo, more calm, keep the ball, pass – and in the right moment, change gear. In the right moment, make the explosion,” Guardiola said in a post-match interview with BBC Match of the Day.
“But at the end, we say it many times, he’s so young. At the end, he has margin to improve, he listens, and saying that he’s been doing an incredible, terrific season.”
Foden has returned to his best self, the kind of form that spearheaded Manchester City’s fourth consecutive Premier League title win in the 2023-24 season and earned the Englishman the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award.“Phil Foden – in terms of work ethic, defensively, how he presses, how he comes back – he’s invaluable. It’s incredible; close to the box, he’s unbelievable,” Guardiola added on Foden in his post-match press conference at Selhurst Park.
On whether there is still more to come from Foden as the season progresses, Guardiola said: “Absolutely, absolutely, absolutely! He has a lot of margin to understand the game. He will not improve his incredible quality, because he’s top, top.
“But understanding the game, the way you have to be in certain moments, the way you have to play, and the way you have to accelerate or sometimes decelerate the game, just the timing and tempo – of course, everyone has margin to improve, everyone!”
Guardiola is a perfectionist and Foden will pay heed to his manager’s comments, though the Manchester City academy graduate will have been delighted to leave Selhurst Park with another goal, especially with England boss Thomas Tuchel in attendance.
Real Madrid: Pérez has two candidates to succeed Xabi Alonso
Real Madrid: the scenario of a duo to take over from Xabi Alonso
Real Madrid: Pérez has two candidates to succeed Xabi Alonso
The future of the Madrid bench is beginning to spark internal speculation. Should Xabi Alonso decide not to continue his journey at Real Madrid, the club already has a well-considered contingency plan in place. Behind the scenes, Álvaro Arbeloa, the current Castilla manager, is seen as a credible option to ensure a smooth transition.
A respected former player of Los Blancos, Arbeloa has, for several seasons, been regarded as a coach with high potential—capable of embodying institutional continuity. If promoted, he would be joined by Antonio Pintus returning to a central role. Pintus, a renowned figure in physical preparation, has seen his influence reduced under the current staff.
In a fragile sporting context, marked by a depleted squad and inconsistent performances, the management is closely monitoring the evolution of results. The victory at Alavés offers Xabi Alonso only brief respite, and the momentum over the coming weeks will be decisive for the future of the project.
🚨 Bayern confirm fresh injury blow for Manuel Neuer
FC Bayern, impeccable on the sporting front, will once again have to deal with the absence of their captain. Manuel Neuer was injured in the Bundesliga home match against Mainz, as confirmed by the club.
Manuel Neuer suffered a muscle fibre tear in the back of his right thigh on Sunday. This was determined by an examination carried out by the German club’s medical department.
The 39-year-old goalkeeper had to receive treatment during the match, although he was initially able to continue playing.
After the final whistle, the definitive diagnosis arrived, with a discouraging result for the Munich side.
The club did not initially specify how long Neuer will be sidelined, but from experience, a muscle fibre tear usually means an absence of several weeks.
Ruben Amorim admits Manchester United are ‘underachieving’ after criticism from former players
Ruben Amorim has admitted Manchester United are ‘underachieving’ after criticism from former players.
The Red Devils endured a poor start to the season, but bounced back to register three consecutive Premier League wins in October.
However, they have become inconsistent again with just two wins from their previous six matches.
Former United legend Paul Scholes claimed on his podcast last week that Amorim is not the right man for his old team because his system doesn’t fit the United tradition of playing with wingers.
Asked if he had an issue with ex-players criticising him, Amorim said: “I think it’s normal.
“It’s a fact that me as a manager of Manchester United, I think we are underachieving. We should have more points, especially this season. So, I take that naturally.
“Sometimes they don’t have all the information and see Manchester United with the standards they lived here, always winning. It’s hard for them to see their club in this situation.”
United will enter Monday’s home game with Bournemouth on the back of a 4-1 triumph over Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The Manchester titans endured a nervy first-half, as Jean-Ricner Bellegarde canceled out the advantage of Bruno Fernandes’ early goal.
But they dominated proceedings after the break in the Molineux Stadium encounter, with Bryan Mbeumo and Mason Mount both scoring before Bruno’s late second.
Amorim’s men will now look to claim back-to-back wins this week, and they could not have asked for better opponents than Bournemouth.
The Cherries are massively struggling for form at the moment, as they are winless in their previous six top-flight matches, collecting just two points from 18 on offer.
Barcelona star wins over Hansi Flick after slow start to the season
Barcelona made only three signings during the summer transfer window, with one of those being Swedish winger Roony Bardghji. The 20-year-old arrived from FC Copenhagen for a cut-price fee, which the Catalans saw as a clear market opportunity.
However, the plan with Bardghji has been for him to be a backup, which is why he has struggled for prominence during this first season at Barcelona. He has made only 12 appearances, with three of being from the start, but in the latest of those, he announced himself to the club and its supporters.
As per Sport, Bardghji was impressed within Can Barca since his summer move. He has won over head coach Hansi Flick and his Barcelona teammates with his attitude, which is why there are plans for him to be used more often during the second half of the season.
Flick wants Bardghji to be versatile option
However, he will need to be versatile in order to do so. Lamine Yamal is undisputed on the right wing, which is why Flick has made it clear to Bardghji that he will need to be happy playing in other positions. He is seen as an option on the left wing, but also in the playmaking role behind the striker.
Bardghji will almost certainly have his chance at another start when Barcelona take on Guadalajara in the Copa del Rey on Tuesday. If he can produce another strong performance, it would give him further prominence ahead of the second half of the season.
AC Milan have reportedly made Gabriel Jesus their top attacking target for the January transfer window, with the Italian giants exploring the possibility of a loan deal for the Arsenal forward, according to Corriere dello Sport, as reported by GOAL.
The Rossoneri, who are seeking to reinforce their frontline after an inconsistent start to the season, view Jesus as an ideal addition to inject pace, creativity, and experience into their attack.
However, the move faces significant challenges, primarily due to Milan’s limited transfer budget and the Brazilian’s high wages.
Under manager Massimilano Allegri, Milan have struggled with attacking consistency, especially in big games.
The 28-year-old’s experience in the Premier League and Champions League makes him a valuable asset for a side hoping to challenge domestically and in Europe.
However, Milan’s financial situation rules out any chance of a permanent deal, with a loan being the only realistic avenue. Even that comes with complications, as Jesus currently earns around €16 million gross per year at Arsenal, a figure far above what Milan’s wage structure can accommodate.
Sources in Italy suggest Milan could attempt to negotiate a deal where Arsenal cover part of the player’s wages, though such an arrangement would require the Gunners’ approval and likely depend on their own January business.
At Arsenal, Jesus has found himself in a difficult position. While he remains one of Mikel Arteta’s most trusted forwards, the rise of Viktor Gyökeres, signed last summer, and the emergence of Mikel Merino as a makeshift attacker have limited his playing time.
Gabriel Jesus of Arsenal (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
With the 2026 World Cup in North America drawing closer, Jesus is reportedly eager for more consistent minutes to cement his place in the Brazil national team.
Although Arteta values Jesus’ leadership and versatility, the manager has rotated heavily this season and with options like Kai Havertz and Leandro Trossard in the squad, players who can also play upfront for the Gunners, Jesus may find it difficult to feature in the second half of the season.
This reduced role could make a mid-season loan appealing to the player, particularly if Milan can guarantee regular football and a central role in Allegri’s system.
Chelsea have made the first move in the race to sign promising Netherlands international Kees, swiftly opening discussions with the player’s representatives ahead of the January transfer window, according to multiple iNews.
The 19-year-old midfielder has emerged as one of Europe’s most intriguing young prospects following a breakthrough campaign in the Eredivisie.
His ability to dictate the tempo of matches have drawn comparisons to players like Frenkie de Jong and Martin Ødegaard.
Insiders at Stamford Bridge say Chelsea’s recruitment department has already initiated contact with Kees’ camp to explore the feasibility of a deal, as the Blues continue to build one of the youngest and most dynamic squads in the Premier League.
However, while the £25 million valuation is considered fair in the current market, Chelsea’s hierarchy, mindful of Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), are reportedly hesitant to make such an investment in January without first moving on a few fringe players.
Manager Enzo Maresca is said to be an admirer of Kees’ versatility and tactical intelligence, believing he could thrive in Chelsea’s evolving midfield setup alongside Enzo Fernández and Moises Caicedo.
Nonetheless, the club’s transfer committee is proceeding carefully, weighing whether to delay a formal bid until the summer when the financial situation may be more flexible.
The Magpies are “definitely pondering a move” for Kees in January, viewing him as a player who could immediately strengthen Eddie Howe’s squad for both the Premier League and their European ambitions.
The Toon Army are expected to test the waters with a formal offer soon after the winter window opens, and sources suggest Kees is intrigued by the prospect of playing in the Premier League.
Kees Smit warming up for AZ Alkmaar (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
Kees’ rise has been meteoric. Having excelled in the Eredivisie this season with standout performances against top Dutch sides, he has also caught the attention of Ajax scouts and Bundesliga clubs, but the financial power of the Premier League is expected to dictate the outcome.
At 19, his mix of ball-carrying ability, defensive awareness, and creativity has made him a target for teams seeking long-term midfield solutions.
With Chelsea carefully assessing their January spending and Newcastle ready to move more aggressively, the coming weeks could prove decisive in determining Kees’ next destination.
His current club is believed to be open to selling for the right price, ideally around £25 million but would prefer to retain him until the summer if possible.
Crystal Palace defender Daniel Muñoz is fast emerging as one of the most sought-after players ahead of the winter transfer window, following a string of standout performances in the Premier League.
The Colombian international, known for his relentless energy and attacking instincts, has impressed scouts across Europe and now finds himself at the centre of growing transfer speculation.
Manchester City have been keeping a close eye on Muñoz in recent months, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.
Pep Guardiola is said to admire the 29-year-old’s athleticism, pressing intensity, and overlapping runs, traits that fit perfectly into City’s high-possession, aggressive full-back system.
While City’s interest has yet to translate into a formal offer, sources suggest that their recruitment team has compiled extensive scouting data on the Colombian.
Liverpool have joined the race, viewing Muñoz as a versatile defensive option who could offer depth and competition to Jeremie Frimpong, their summer recruit.
The Reds have scouted several right-backs in recent months as part of a gradual rebuild under Arne Slot, with Muñoz’s adaptability and consistency catching the eye.
On the European stage, Barcelona and Atlético Madrid are also following developments closely.
Spanish media claim that both clubs appreciate Muñoz’s tactical discipline and attacking output, he has registered multiple goal contributions from defense this season but acknowledge that Palace’s valuation could pose a challenge.
Daniel Munoz applauds the Crystal Palace fans (Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)
Despite growing attention, Crystal Palace have made it clear that Muñoz is not for sale in January.
he club regard him as a vital part of Oliver Glasner’s system, particularly after the departures and injuries that have left their defensive unit stretched.
Palace chairman Steve Parish is said to be confident of keeping hold of the player until at least the summer, though insiders admit that strong offers in 2026 could test their resolve.
With Muñoz under contract until 2028, Palace are under no pressure to sell but the reality of big-money bids from Europe’s elite could shift the situation sooner rather than later.
Ibrahim Mbaye continues to make his mark at Paris Saint-Germain. At just 17 years old, the striker played a decisive role in the 3-2 victory over Metz, providing two crucial assists.
Already turning heads in recent weeks, Mbaye is making the most of Luis Enrique’s trust, as the coach isn’t afraid to give young talents their chance. The Senegalese forward will now have the opportunity to showcase his skills on the African stage at AFCON, a pivotal milestone in his development.
Ibrahim Mbaye sur Instagram:
« Enfant, je regardais la CAN en rêvant qu'un jour je sois sélectionné pour y participer avec le Sénégal. Je suis tellement fier que ce rêve soit devenu une réalité. Un Peuple, Un But, Une Foi 🇸🇳 Al hamdoulilah ☝🏾 » pic.twitter.com/ptJfUvLBZZ
Having made his official debut at just 16, Mbaye also netted his first goal for PSG in March against Saint-Étienne, becoming one of the youngest scorers in the club’s history. As his 18th birthday approaches, Ibrahim Mbaye is emerging as a talent to watch—both in Paris and with the Senegal national team.
Here's your warning, Premier League: Liverpool have found another SUPERSTAR
Liverpool have found themselves another superstar. Here's the warning to the Premier League.
Liverpool spent an outrageous amount of money in the summer as they looked to overhaul their squad. The Reds focused on the full-backs and their attack, hoping to improve on a title-winning side.
That's far from easy to do, as we've seen. Elite players have come in but they don't necessarily fit together - nor are they certain to bring the levels they were at with their previous club.
It's certainly been the case thus far. Liverpool spent a lot of money on Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz as their star singings. The most expensive signings in club history, in fact.
Neither have really come close to replicating the performances that earned them those big-money moves, though. That's a big problem as Liverpool are essentially searching for their new superstar for the post-Mo Salah era - someone who can truly lead the club forward in attack.
But maybe they've found that player - and it's neither Isak nor Wirtz.
Hugo Ekitike is that man
Liverpool's other major attacking signing wasn't exactly an afterthought but he certainly wasn't the main-event over the summer. Hugo Ekitike joined from Eintracht Frankfurt as almost a consolation prize at a time when he appeared Isak wouldn't be joining.
By the time the Swede did join, Ekitike's position wasn't clear. He'd started the season well but Liverpool were clearly replacing him already - a team that uses one centre-forward didn't have room for two remarkably similar options.
But as we approach Christmas, it's clear who Liverpool's main man is. It's Ekitike - and he's doing it at just 23.
The Frenchman's season has been a strange one. He started it in brilliant form, scoring in his opening two Premier League games (as well as the Community Shield) and had three in his first five league starts for Liverpool.
Then the goals dried up. His strike against Everton on September 20th was his last league goal for two and a half months. However, that was also the last time he was the starting striker for Liverpool.
The very next match after the 20th was Isak's first start and it feels safe to say that it had an affect on Ekitike. He didn't start any of the three league games before the Leeds United fixture but bounced back with a brace.
He's now got another brace against Brighton and it couldn't be more obvious that Ekitike shines when he feels like the main man. And he's certainly becoming that.
“What I mainly see is people focusing on his goal," Arne Slot told LFCTV after the match. "Football is a low-scoring sport so goals are really important. But I also see a different thing where he gets better and he gets stronger and stronger.
“So it’s getting more difficult for the other players of other teams to get him off the ball. He’s getting more and more energy to keep on running with and without the ball."
And this is just a warning to the Premier League. Ekitike is the star Liverpool hoped they were signing in the summer - someone capable of delivering that unstoppable nature in attack.
He's getting better and that's plain for all to see. Slot believes he's only getting more energy and he's only getting more difficult for opponents to manage.
If he continues on this path, Ekitike is the Salah successor.
Goal and assist: The Toro overtakes Conte and Max, Supercoppa on Thursday.
Inter take the lead. Milan’s draw, Napoli’s stop
Cristian celebrates: 2-1 win at Marassi. Bisseck breaks the deadlock. Laurienté shocks Allegri. Sassuolo’s comeback (2-2). Conte falls in Udine (1-0). Ekkelenkamp scores.
Roma jump: the big chance
Gasp can return in the Scudetto zone: ‘I’ll end my career here, ambition needed to improve.’ Ndicka plays, Wesley returns.
Viola sink: endless training retreat
Shadows on Vanoli: hypothesis Iachini. The Franchi protests: survival is eight points away. Orban’s brace decisive.
Spalletti’s breakthrough
The Bianconeri win again away after 43 days. Cabal scores. Lucio: ‘The best win since I’m here.’ Zortea hits the crossbar on 0-0. Heggem sent off. Supercoppa: on Friday, Italiano against Inter.
Tuttosport
Milan stumble against Sassuolo, Napoli fall in Udine: Chivu’s overtake
Inter put them back in line
On the pitch after the rivals, the Nerazzurri don’t waste their chance: Bisseck and Lautaro sign the blitz in Genoa. The Rossoneri don’t digest the newly promoted sides. Bartesaghi’s brace: 2-2. Palpitation in San Siro after the draw with Pisa and the defeat against Cremonese. Zaniolo sends Conte’s team into a tilt, punished by a super Ekkelenkamp goal. From Thursday, the Supercoppa in Riyadh.
Juve to Cabal
Convincing and heavy win in Bologna: 1-0.
A defender’s header rewards a high-level performance. Rossoblu (who end up with ten men) are overtaken, and a Champions League spot is one point below. Spalletti (five wins in the last six games): ‘It can be a breakthrough.’
Cholito, the leader: ‘Such a good Toro!’
Image of a bomber and a very Granata family: ‘I couldn’t wait to return to action.’ But Baroni’s troubles are not over.
Borussia Mönchengladbach could be plotting a clever move this winter with Omar Traoré. The 1. FC Heidenheim defender is heading into the final months of his contract, which paves the way for a low-cost transfer.
At 27, Traoré brings a reliable and experienced Bundesliga profile. An undisputed starter this season, he has played every league match—a testament to his consistency and the trust of his coach.His ability to operate both as a right-back and wing-back fits perfectly with Gladbach’s current needs, as the club seeks defensive stability over risky gambles.
❌ Rumours linking Gladbach with Omar Traore are off.
The 27-year-old right-back doesn’t want to extend his expiring Heidenheim contract. A winter move is possible, giving the club a last chance for a transfer fee. 👀 pic.twitter.com/26oqeNNkcX
While it may not be a spectacular signing, Omar Traoré would be an immediate and pragmatic solution to strengthen the squad this winter. Definitely a story to watch as the window approaches!
Zidane set to lead Les Bleus? Verbal agreement reportedly in place
Today at 03:17
Zidane set to lead Les Bleus? Verbal agreement reportedly in place
Zinédine Zidane could soon take the helm of the French national team. According to Fabrizio Romano, a verbal agreement has reportedly been reached between the former Real Madrid manager and the French Football Federation.
Zidane would succeed Didier Deschamps after the 2026 World Cup, as Deschamps has already announced his departure. The FFF has been working on this scenario for several months, and Zidane is said to be the frontrunner for the role. The goal is to kick off a new era for Les Bleus, featuring a more dynamic and less predictable style of play, built around stars like Kylian Mbappé.
Zinedine Zidane is the favourite to become the next head coach of the France national team.
Unattached since 2021, Zidane remains a global reference thanks to his three Champions League titles with Real Madrid. The big question: could a potential call from Real change everything before 2026?
Liverpool looking at potential double centre back deal in January
Richard Hughes Targets Defensive Reset with Guehi and Jacquet on Liverpool Radar
Liverpool’s uneven start to the season has forced a recalibration behind the scenes, with sporting director Richard Hughes now actively shaping plans to reinforce the club’s central defensive options. Despite unprecedented spending during the summer window, performances in the Premier League have fallen short of expectations, exposing structural vulnerabilities that recruitment was supposed to resolve.
The scale of investment was designed to future-proof a title-winning squad and support Arne Slot’s early work at Anfield. Instead, cohesion has been elusive. New arrivals have struggled to fully integrate, while the margin for error has narrowed in key areas of the pitch. Nowhere has that been more apparent than at centre-back, where depth concerns and contract uncertainty have collided.
Guehi Interest Reflects Contract Pressures
Marc Guehi has re-emerged according to Anfield Watch as a central figure in Liverpool’s thinking, largely due to unresolved questions surrounding Ibrahima Konate. With the French defender approaching the final phase of his contract and no agreement yet reached, Liverpool face the real prospect of losing a core defensive asset without recouping a fee.
Guehi’s situation mirrors that concern. The Crystal Palace defender is also entering the final year of his deal, and Liverpool are well aware that he is expected to move on at the end of the season. Having missed out on securing his signature during the summer, Hughes is now alert to the possibility of revisiting the deal under far more favourable financial conditions.
From a footballing perspective, the appeal is obvious. Guehi brings Premier League experience, tactical intelligence and leadership, attributes Liverpool have leaned heavily on in Virgil van Dijk. During the opening months of the campaign, Slot has been left with little choice but to rely almost exclusively on his senior pairing, a situation that has increased physical load and limited rotation.
Liverpool’s renewed interest in Guehi is therefore less about opportunism and more about necessity. If Konate’s future remains unresolved, securing a proven replacement becomes a strategic imperative rather than a luxury.
Jacquet Identified as Developmental Signing
Alongside proven experience, Hughes is also targeting long-term potential. Jeremy Jacquet has emerged as a serious candidate after impressing scouts with his performances for Rennes. At just 20, the French defender is already regarded as one of the most promising centre-backs to emerge from Ligue 1’s production line.
Liverpool have placed Jacquet on an internal shortlist, with recruitment staff particularly encouraged by his composure in possession, positional awareness and physical development. Arsenal are also believed to be monitoring his progress, underlining the level of competition Liverpool could face should they decide to accelerate their interest.
Unlike Guehi, Jacquet would not be expected to arrive as an immediate first-choice option. Instead, he represents a calculated investment, one designed to develop within Liverpool’s environment while gradually increasing his involvement. That approach aligns closely with Hughes’ broader recruitment philosophy, balancing immediate needs with long-term sustainability.
Richard Hughes Builds Multi-Year Defensive Strategy
The dual focus on Guehi and Jacquet reflects a wider defensive plan rather than short-term panic. While Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez are both contracted until 2027, Liverpool are conscious of the need to manage succession well in advance. Waiting until decline or departure forces action has rarely been the club’s preferred approach.
Giovanni Leoni, currently sidelined through injury, is expected to play a significant role in Liverpool’s defensive future. However, relying solely on internal options would leave the squad exposed should injuries or contract disputes persist. Adding both Guehi and Jacquet would significantly rebalance the department, offering immediate stability and future depth.
Hughes’ strategy appears clear. One addition would deliver Premier League reliability at a crucial moment, while the other would safeguard the position for seasons to come. It is a model Liverpool have used successfully in the past, blending experience with emerging talent to maintain competitive continuity.
Liverpool’s campaign may yet stabilise, but the message from Anfield is unmistakable. Defensive reinforcement is no longer optional. With Guehi and Jacquet firmly under consideration, Richard Hughes is positioning the club to address current weaknesses while laying foundations for the next phase of the rebuild.
Eye-catching numbers affirm Barcelona are on track to win big under Hansi Flick
Barcelona’s march under Hansi Flick this season has been built on a simple but ruthless principle – make home advantage untouchable.
No matter the venue, no matter the circumstances, the reigning champions have turned every stadium they have called home into hostile territory for visiting sides.
The numbers, the performances, and the growing belief around the squad all point to the same conclusion that Barça are laying the foundations of a title-winning campaign.
A look at the home numbers
Barcelona’s journey this season began at the Estadi Johan Cruyff, where they sent an early warning to the league.
Valencia were swept aside 6-0 in a statement performance, before Getafe were comfortably dispatched 3-0.
Circumstances then forced Barcelona back to the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys.
This time, the response was convincing. Real Sociedad were beaten 2-1, Girona fell by the same scoreline, and Elche were put away 3-1.
Different opponents, different challenges, same outcome. Barça adapted, competed, and found ways to win.
The Camp Nou return
Barcelona are yet to lose at home this season. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
The real emotional lift came on November 22nd with the long-awaited return to the Spotify Camp Nou.
The winter transfer window is upon us, and Roma are looking for the right players to complete their squad.
Massara is not just looking for opportunities in attack, but also in various areas.
As reported by Il Corriere della Sera, one of the latest ideas Massara has forwarded to Gasperini is a defender: Aurelè Amenda, a 2003-born Swiss defender from Eintracht Frankfurt.
The center-back has reportedly been proposed to Roma by Giuffrida, the same agent who is pushing Gudmundsson to Trigoria.
The club would like to please Gasperini in the next transfer window by gifting the coach three key additions: a center-forward, a second striker (right-footed), and a central defender who would act as Ndicka’s backup.
Amenda and Gundmundsson, however, are on standby; the priority right now is to sign the striker, given that Roma have the thirteenth-best attack in the league with only 15 goals scored so far this season.
Amenda, however, remains an unknown quantity: the Swiss is young like Ziolkowski and Ghilardi, while Gasperini is looking for a more experienced player so as not to have to wean the third defender as well.
“I am very happy today. It was very important that we got back to winning ways and with a clean sheet, it couldn’t have gone much better so we are pleased,” the full back said.
The Frenchman got a goal and an assist, helping a rather mediocre performance from the rest of the attack bring 3 points.
Gusto praises teammates for strong showing in defence
Trevoh Chalobah holds off Illiman Ndiaye in a Chelsea win. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
It wasn’t just Gusto who had a good game. Trevoh Chalobah and Wesley Fofana made a great partnership at the back, continuing their great run of clean sheets, and Gusto shouted them out:
“We know how important it is to defend properly in the Premier League and to try to not concede. We did that tonight so I am very proud of the team performance.
“They help us a lot, they are very strong at the back and they help us to build as well. It takes a whole team to build and we train to do that every day and tonight we played well so the coach will be happy.”
In Maresca bombshell news…
Enzo Maresca had a strange rant after the game on Saturday where he complained about a lack of protection, and it seems like he was wanting senior figures to come out and defend him after a bad result on Tuesday.
Chelsea’s transfer policy is something which was in place before the manager arrived, and it seems unlikely that he’s started railing against it now, but Ben Jacobs mentions it in his summary of the spat, so it could be a factor.
Alaves coach questions Vinicius incident after Real Madrid defeat – ‘It was either a penalty or second yellow’
Alaves were left to reflect on a night of fine margins after their 1-2 defeat to Real Madrid, a match that hinged on key moments and sparked debate long after the final whistle.
Despite pushing the visitors hard and briefly restoring parity, they ultimately walked away empty-handed.
Speaking to DAZN, Alaves head coach Eduardo Coudet addressed the incident that quickly became the centre of post-match discussion, which was a possible penalty involving Vinicius Jr. that Real Madrid themselves also highlighted.
From Coudet’s perspective, the decision could easily have gone another way. Assessing the situation, he said,
“It was either a penalty or a second yellow card for Vinicius. We always see everything in our favour, but it’s the referees who have to decide.”
Could have, would have…
Beyond the controversy, Coudet was more concerned with what his side failed to do after their equaliser.
Summing up his feelings, he admitted, “It’s a shame. I’m left with a bad taste in my mouth after having made a big effort and putting Madrid in trouble.
“In these games, you have to finish them off, and we couldn’t do that. But the team is doing well, and we have to keep working,” he noted.
Meanwhile, Alaves midfielder Antonio Blanco repeated those sentiments, focusing on the small lapses that proved costly.
Reflecting on the performance, he pointed to concentration and decision-making in decisive areas. As he explained,
“The team made a great effort, but on two occasions when we lost focus, they scored two goals.
“We knew we had to watch them because they have very fast players up front. We lacked a bit of composure in the final third to score the goal.”
The Vinicius incident
Blanco chose not to dwell too much on the penalty appeal involving Vinicius in the closing stages, admitting the speed of the play made it difficult to judge. Addressing the incident cautiously, he said,
“It all happened very quickly, and I don’t know if there was contact or not. If they didn’t call it, it’s because there was no contact. We’ll have to watch the replay.”
On a more personal note, the match carried added significance for Blanco, who faced the club where he spent part of his formative years.
“It’s always special to play against Real Madrid. Now I’m focused on Alaves and I want to keep adding minutes in what I hope will be an important year,” he concluded.
Eberl offers fresh update on Upamecano talks – could extension come before Christmas?
Bayern Munich board member for sport Max Eberl remains optimistic that Dayot Upamecano will extend his contract beyond next summer.
When asked about the ongoing negotiations on Sunday, he hinted that a conclusion could come soon.
“I don’t know what’s behind the remaining doors of the Advent calendar,” Eberl said in the mixed zone after Bayern’s 2–2 draw with Mainz, according to Sky Germany.
Asked if Upamecano could sign a new deal before the end of 2025, he replied:
“That would be desirable, but I can’t promise that.”
“Basically, I’m very confident, and I’ve said that here several times already. We’ve discussed contract extensions together over weeks and months. It’s our strong wish. All the rumors swirling around – that he had declined, threats, ultimatums – all nonsense. We’re talking, and we’re talking very well.
“This eye of the needle is getting smaller, and then he has to go through that eye of the needle. My wish would be that he goes through it and not past it. He’ll manage that,” Eberl concluded.
Liverpool on the brink of MASSIVE £100m January transfer windfall
Liverpool can expect £100 million for Salah’s sale
As has been the case for a number of years now, Saudi Pro League sides are expected to be right at the forefront of the chase for Salah’s signature should he leave Liverpool.
In a recent report, Liverpool insider Lewis Steele confirmed that Saudi clubs are confident they can secure a deal should the player want to leave Merseyside.
Steele also confirmed that Saudi sides are expecting to have to pay close to £100 million to secure the Egyptian’s services, whether that be in January or the summer.
That sum would be the second highest fee the club have ever received for a player, and the highest since Philippe Coutinho joined Barcelona in 2018.
MLS sides, including Egyptian owned San Diego Chicago Fire, are also in the chase but believe the finances of the deal could prove too expensive for them.
Should Liverpool accept £100 million for Salah?
Salah delivered one of the best individual campaigns in Liverpool’s history last season, scoring 34 goals and providing a further 23 assists as the Reds secured their 20th league title.
A player in that form is incredibly hard to replace and it’s hard to justify their sale at any price, but Salah hasn’t found that form this season.
He still has five goals and three assists from 19 appearances, a respectable return, but it has become a lot less absurd to think that Salah could be sold sooner rather than later.
After spending over £400 million in the summer transfer window, the chance to recoup close to £100 million for a 33-year-old forward who is bound to decline seems like something that would pique the interest of Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes.
The Egyptian King still has plenty to offer at Anfield, but if a team are willing to pay £100 million to sign him then it may be time to move on from one of Liverpool’s greatest ever players.
How to watch the live broadcast of the Saudi Arabia vs Jordan match? (Arab Cup semi-final)
Date, time, and broadcast channels for the Arab Cup semi-final between Saudi Arabia and Jordan
Saudi Arabia vs Jordan TV / @x.com/restitutorII/
An exciting and high-intensity showdown awaits football fans this Monday at Al-Bayt Stadium in Al Khor, where Saudi Arabia will take on Jordan in the 2025 Arab Cup semi-final.
Both teams approach this crucial fixture in high spirits, having delivered impressive performances throughout their campaign in the tournament.
The Saudi squad, nicknamed "Al-Akhdar," booked their ticket to the last four after a hard-fought but deserved victory over Palestine (2-1).
On the other hand, Jordan continues their positive momentum in this competition. The "Nashama" secured their spot in the semi-finals thanks to a crucial win against Iraq (1-0) in the quarter-final played at Education City Stadium.
However, the Jordanian team will have to contend with the significant absence of their striker Yazan Al-Naimat, who suffered a serious knee injury in their previous match against the "Lions of Mesopotamia."
Which channels will broadcast Saudi Arabia vs Jordan live?
This highly anticipated Gulf derby will be broadcast free-to-air on several channels, including:
Saudi Sports, beIN Sports, Al Kass 1, Dubai Sports, Abu Dhabi Sports 1, Kuwait Sports, and Sharjah Sports.
Head-to-head history
In terms of previous encounters, the two teams have faced each other 16 times. The record slightly favors Saudi Arabia, who have claimed victory on 9 occasions, while Jordan has won 6 times, and only one match ended in a draw.
Igor Thiago is drawing increasing attention from clubs across Europe. Tottenham and Newcastle have set their sights on the Brentford striker, according to CaughtOffside. Aston Villa, along with clubs from Serie A and La Liga, are also closely monitoring his situation.
Brentford are reportedly demanding around €79 million to let the 24-year-old Brazilian leave. Tottenham are considering a loan move, while Newcastle view Thiago as a key attacking option, especially following Yoane Wissa's injury.
🚨 Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United and Aston Villa all hold a strong interest in Brentford striker Igor Thiago, with the Premier League trio closely monitoring his situation.
Interest is not limited to England, however, as clubs from Serie A and La Liga are also tracking the… pic.twitter.com/WQtCgYHn9r
For his part, Igor Thiago is reportedly open to a move in order to take his career to the next level and get closer to a call-up to the Brazilian national team.
Currently, Borussia Mönchengladbach is struggling with a shortage of forwards due to a slew of injuries. The German club is therefore looking to bolster its attack during the winter transfer window.
According to reports, Sidiki Chérif, the 19-year-old Angers striker, is on Gladbach’s radar. This season, the Franco-Guinean has netted 4 goals in 16 Ligue 1 appearances. Chérif is versatile, able to play both centrally and on the flanks. He is under contract with Angers until 2028, and his market value is estimated at around €25 million. Gladbach is closely monitoring the situation, but other European clubs are also showing interest.
🚨 Angers’ Sidiki Cherif is attracting interest from several European clubs 🇬🇳👀
Milan, Eintracht Frankfurt, Gladbach, Hamburg and Stuttgart are all monitoring him.
🤯 Best Bayern ever? Munich set incredible Bundesliga record
Bayern nearly embarrass themselves against the bottom-of-the-table team from Mainz. But only nearly. Because there are players like Lennart Karl and Harry Kane who score.
Especially the Englishman seems to score in every game for Munich. No wonder the German record champions have now set a new Bundesliga record. Bayern already have 51 (!) goals to their name.
According to the data service provider 'Opta', no other club has managed this so early in the season. We are only at the 14th matchday. On the other hand, this means: Bayern score an average of 3.7 goals per game.
For comparison: Bayern's pursuers have at most 30 goals (Leverkusen), and Mainz, who almost won in Munich, now have 13 goals after 14 matchdays.
If this continues, Bayern could again score more than 100 goals in a season. The last time they achieved this was in the 2019/20 season. Back then, it was exactly 100 goals, and the record is 101 goals from the 1971/72 season. And who could have set it? Right, Munich.
Wesley, Rensch and Ferguson confirmed in Roma’s XI vs Como
Tonight’s Roma-Como match officially concludes Matchday 15. Following Napoli and Milan’s missteps and Inter’s victory against Daniele De Rossi’s Genoa, the top spot is increasingly tight.
With a win against Como, the Giallorossi could close the gap on the Nerazzurri, moving to 30 points, three points behind first place.
A defeat would make things worse: Como would draw level with Roma on 27 points, and their next match against Juventus could see the Bianconeri overtake them, currently on 26 points thanks to their win against Bologna.
Against Cesc Fabregas’s side, Devyne Rensch will continue to play. Rensch proved his driving force against Celtic, a feat Gasp appreciates, and he will be able to count on Wesley.
Evan N’Dicka will be the latest defensive option, while Ferguson will continue his attack, ahead of Dybala.
The reality of Ter Stegen and Joan Garcia’s relationship at Barcelona
The goalkeeping situation at FC Barcelona has quietly evolved into one of the most complex internal stories of the season.
With Marc-Andre ter Stegen now fully back in the squad, Hansi Flick suddenly finds himself managing an unusual luxury of having three elite goalkeepers competing for one position.
While depth is normally a blessing, this particular scenario carries significant sporting and emotional implications.
At present, the hierarchy appears clear. Joan Garcia has established himself as the undisputed starter, while Wojciech Szczesny currently sits ahead of Ter Stegen in the pecking order.
For a goalkeeper who has been Barcelona’s reference point for years, such a shift is naturally difficult to process.
It would be entirely human for pride to be bruised or resentment to creep in, especially when a new figure becomes the face of the position.
How is Ter Stegen and Joan Garcia’s relationship?
However, according to SPORT, the internal reality is far calmer than outside speculation suggests.
Despite the competitive tension that naturally exists, there is said to be no friction between Ter Stegen and Garcia.
Joan Garcia is Barcelona’s number 1. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
The German veteran, who still wants to be Barça’s “1”, remains eager to challenge for the role, and continues to train with intensity, even if the odds of reclaiming the starting spot appear slim at this stage.
Both goalkeepers have approached the situation with professionalism. Each is focused on defending his own position, yet without allowing ego to damage the collective environment.
In fact, the biggest winner of this dynamic is the team itself. Increased competition in training has raised standards and has also given Flick a level of security rarely seen in elite squads.
How long can this sustain?
The question, however, revolves around time. How long can Ter Stegen realistically maintain patience in a role that limits his minutes, especially with international ambitions still very much alive?
For Garcia, the equation is simpler. The former Espanyol goalkeeper has shown no signs of insecurity, frustration, or negative gestures toward his teammate.
Crucially, sources suggest that the tensions once seen during the Claudio Bravo era will not resurface. There is no divide, no silent standoff, and no friction in the dressing room.
Garcia is the owner of the Barcelona goal right now. Ter Stegen understands the reality, even if he does not accept it passively.
Otis Honor previews Brentford's FA Youth Cup clash with Chelsea U18s
Brentford Under-18s midfielder Otis Honor says he is excited for “a massive test” in Tuesday night's FA Youth Cup clash with Chelsea Under-18s at Wheatsheaf Park (7pm kick-off GMT).
Gary McDermiott’s side come into the game eyeing a win to go through to the fourth round, a stage of the competition the young Bees haven't reached since the reintroduction of the academy.
Speaking ahead of the tie, Honor said the group was excited to play in front of a packed-out Wheatsheaf Park.
“It’s going to be a massive game for all of the lads, we’re bang excited for it. It’s the biggest competition for our age group… we’ll be ready,” he said.
“Hopefully we'll get a good crowd in and have all the fans backing us, that will definitely help us.
“We’ve all played against the likes of Chelsea before, it’s just like any other game really, we've just got to play that 10 per cent better and we’ll be fine.”
He scored the visitors' opening goal in what proved to be an entertaining clash, Brentford coming from behind to equalise on two occasions before the hosts found a late winner.
Honor said the players that remain in west London from that team would use that experience on Tuesday against Chelsea.
“It was a good game, I feel like we should’ve won the game and we definitely learnt from it a lot,” he explained.
“Playing in that game will definitely help us, having a feel of the Youth Cup before Chelsea.”
Honor has enjoyed a strong 2025/26 season, which has featured games with the U18s and Sam Saunders’ B team across the Professional Development League and London Senior Cup.
The midfielder also signed his first professional contract with the club in October, alongside Enrique Roca.
Reflecting on his season to date, Honor said his development has been aided by playing against more experienced opposition.
“It’s good playing across both age groups. It’s great being with all the lads, playing against better players, older players. It’s definitely better for my development to try and push on,” said Honor.
Last time out
Brentford fell to a 3-1 defeat against Cardiff City in Saturday's PDL game at Leckwith Stadium.
Featuring a mix of U18 and U16 squad members, the Bees went into half-time 1-0 down before conceding again just after the break.
U16 striker Jai Nwosu managed to pull one back for the Bees midway through the second half, however a late penalty saw Cardiff secure all three points.
About Chelsea U18s
Chelsea come into Tuesday's clash undefeated in the U18 Premier League and second in the south group table, three points behind leaders Crystal Palace.
The young Blues are in good form as of late, winning back-to-back games against West Ham (2-1) and Ipswich Town (3-0) after a goalless draw with Norwich City.
Chelsea are led by head coach Hassan Sulaiman, who has been in the role since March 2023. Sulaiman led the side to a southern title in the 2023/24 season, eventually losing the national final to Manchester United 2-1, the same team they lost to in the fifth round of the FA Youth Cup last season.
England youth international Chizaram Ezenwata has impressed up front for the Blues this season, while Shumaira Mheuka has starred for the U18s, also stepping up to the U21 squad.
Nineteen years ago this Friday, 15 December, a tragedy brought an untimely end to the lives and dreams of Alessio Ferramosco and Riccardo Neri, two 17-year-old boys who wore the Bianconeri colours and looked towards the future as only youngsters can: with passion and dreaming of a career in football.
Riccardo was a goalkeeper and Alessio a midfielder, and each was a talented player in Juventus’ youth academy, each part of the Juventus family, and they shared the ambition of one day wearing our Men’s First Team shirt.
The two were bound together by their love for the game, and they are forever etched in our collective memory, as we are reminded at Vinovo every day of their presence. There, the pitch used by our youth teams is dedicated to their memory, and the players who play there today hold the values that Riccardo and Alessio carried with them.
Nineteen years have passed, but the memories haven’t faded.
Valverde, Courtois react after Alaves 1-2 Real Madrid – ‘It was very important to win’
Real Madrid’s narrow 2-1 victory over Alaves may not go down as a classic performance, but it was viewed as a turning point.
After a difficult run of results and mounting pressure on the squad, the three points were seen as essential to restoring belief.
Speaking after the match, club captain Federico Valverde offered an honest and revealing assessment of both the performance and the emotional state of the team.
Reflecting on the importance of the result in the wider context of the season, Valverde stressed,
“After several difficult matches, it was very important to win to keep fighting in La Liga.”
Praising his teammates
With Real Madrid arriving at Mendizorroza severely weakened by injuries and suspensions, Valverde praised the collective attitude shown by the players who were available.
“With many players out due to injuries and suspensions, I think the team showed their pride today, with a desire to fight and battle.
“We took three points from a very important ground,” he noted.
Speaking further, the midfielder broke down the match itself and the shift in momentum across the 90 minutes.
“We knew we had to go out there to win, to fight for three crucial points to keep our La Liga hopes alive.”
Playing through injury
Valverde also revealed that his contribution came despite physical issues. Admitting that he was not operating at full fitness, he openly stated,
Thibaut Courtois was self-critical. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
“The team needed me,” before expanding on the responsibility he felt as captain during a turbulent spell.
As he put it, “After several defeats, the team needed to win, and I, as captain, had to take charge as the person primarily responsible when things aren’t going well.
“Today was a great game to change that dynamic.”
Courtois’ analysis
Another key voice after the match was Thibaut Courtois, who quietly reached the milestone of 200 wins with Real Madrid.
The goalkeeper focused on the result rather than the performance, explaining, “It’s a very important victory.
“The game wasn’t our best, but the important thing was to win and get the three points.”
Courtois was also asked about the controversial moment involving Vinicius Jr. and a penalty appeal. From his distant viewpoint, he shared his interpretation of the incident, saying,
“I’m far away, but of course, there’s contact from a player.
“The referee said that for him, the contact was slight and that’s why he didn’t blow the whistle, but Vini was coming in at high speed and dribbling quickly.
“For me, it’s a foul. It’s one thing to be in the box and get touched a little, but when you’re going at that speed, a slight touch is enough to knock you down.
“I was surprised, but I’m happy because we won and that penalty wasn’t decisive,” he explained.
Even if it was just a makeshift bandage, Real Madrid managed to stop the bleeding by winning in Vitoria. Xabi Alonso keeps his job, and one of the images of the match is him embracing Vinicius. Signs of recovery?
Barcelona kicks off its Copa del Rey campaign tomorrow in Guadalajara, and Flick must choose a goalkeeper amid an uncertain transfer market scenario. Ter Stegen needs minutes to aim for the World Cup, but the German's priorities are Joan García and Szczesny, in that order.
And what does the club say? According to Sport, they would love to free up the German's salary to make room for a new signing. Will benching him be used as a pressure tactic?
🤔 Football, don’t try to understand it
⚽️‼️ÚLTIMA HORA | Guillermo Almada le dice SÍ al Real Oviedo
➡️ Informa JI Tornadijo que el ACTUAL entrenador del Real Valladolid se ha comprometido con el Real Oviedo para ocupar su banquillo
🗣️ Hay una claúsula de salida pero hay buena sintonía entre clubes para negociar pic.twitter.com/McPiJYG6yK
Real Oviedo, owned by the Pachuca Group, dismissed Luis Carrión yesterday, the club's second coach since the season began, and candidates are already being mentioned to inherit the role, with Guillermo Almada, the Real Valladolid coach, as the frontrunner.
If the deal goes through, we would see an unprecedented situation: a top division club hiring a second division coach whose own fans have just asked him to leave due to poor results.
The relationship between Pachuca and Ignite, the groups that own both clubs, is key in this bizarre operation.
It's one of the most beautiful images of the weekend. To celebrate their friendship with the Nuremberg ultras, Schalke put on a magnificent display featuring the crests of both clubs. Beautiful.
🎥 And a great goal from Doué to finish
Désiré Doué opened the scoring after returning from injury in the 3-2 away win against Metz in December 2025.
Jobe Bellingham was shown a red card in Borussia Dortmund’s 1–1 draw with SC Freiburg after bringing down Philipp Treu as the last man.
After the match, BVB sporting director Sebastian Kehl came to the defense of the 20-year-old midfielder.
"Jobe was disappointed as well. He thought about how he could have handled the situation better," Kehl said in a post-match interview.
The situation was triggered by a pass played too short by Dortmund goalkeeper Gregor Kobel, which sent Treu through on goal and left Bellingham in a difficult position.
“It was a chain of events, it was avoidable. In that action there are many things you can do better. Jobe tries to save it. Someone always ends up being involved – this time it was Jobe," Kehl explained.
Kobel himself had no issue accepting responsibility for the situation.
“I have to see that better, I have to help Jobe there. I’m sorry for him,” Kobel admitted.
“In the end I’m happy to take the blame, that’s okay.”
Report: Spurs Interested In 12 Goal Premier League Striker
Tottenham monitor Igor Thiago as striker market heats up
Tottenham Hotspur’s search for attacking reinforcements has taken a familiar Premier League turn, with Brentford forward Igor Thiago emerging as a serious target. Credit must go toCaughtOffside, whose original reporting has outlined the growing interest around a striker enjoying a prolific campaign in west London.
Thiago’s numbers are eye catching, with 12 goals in 16 matches this season, a return that places him firmly among the division’s most effective forwards. Unsurprisingly, that form has attracted attention beyond Spurs, with Newcastle United and Aston Villa also monitoring developments, alongside interest from Serie A and La Liga.
Sources close to the situation have told CaughtOffside that Tottenham are among the clubs showing “serious interest”, a phrase that underlines how advanced the scouting and background work appears to be.
Brentford valuation shapes January outlook
Brentford, however, are under no pressure to sell. The club have reportedly set an asking price as high as €70 million, with some suggestions even pointing to £70 million. That valuation, combined with Thiago’s contract running until 2029, makes a January deal highly challenging.
CaughtOffside report that Tottenham have explored a loan structure, but Brentford “are not open to it”. That stance reflects both the striker’s importance to Keith Andrew’s side and the club’s broader strategy of retaining key assets mid season.
Given those conditions, the likelihood of a winter move appears slim, even with strong demand forming across the league.
Premier League rivals circle Thiago
Aston Villa are viewed as one of the more credible challengers. Unai Emery sees Thiago as a long term alternative to Ollie Watkins and could look to operate in the €50–57 million range. Newcastle, meanwhile, consider Thiago “the ideal signing to strengthen their attack”, particularly with Yoane Wissa yet to feature heavily following injury.
Photo IMAGO
For the player himself, regular football remains the priority, as he looks to secure his place in Brazil’s World Cup plans. That focus may influence both timing and destination.
Spurs project adds appeal
CaughtOffside note that “the move to Tottenham would probably be more attractive for him compared to the other two clubs”. Spurs’ recent Europa League success and an ambitious sporting project are cited as major factors, with the report adding that “a quality striker could make a huge difference for them in the final third”.
Whether Tottenham meet Brentford’s valuation in the summer will be one of the market’s defining questions.
Our View – EPL Index Analysis
From a Spurs supporter’s perspective, this report feels both exciting and frustrating in equal measure. Igor Thiago ticks many of the boxes fans have been crying out for, physical presence, Premier League proven output and an age profile that fits a developing squad. Twelve goals in sixteen games does not happen by accident, and it suggests a striker ready to lead the line at a higher level.
The appeal of Tottenham is clear. A Europa League win has shifted perception, and there is a sense of momentum around the club that simply did not exist twelve months ago. Supporters will read closely into the line that a move to Spurs “would probably be more attractive”, as it hints at genuine buy in from the player’s side.
That said, the reported €70 million valuation raises eyebrows. Spurs fans have seen this story before, admiration, groundwork, then hesitation at the final number. The key question is whether the club are prepared to act decisively rather than wait for a perfect price that never arrives.
If the ambition matches the rhetoric, a statement striker signing this summer would signal real intent. Thiago feels like the type of forward who could lift the level immediately, and supporters will hope this interest becomes more than just monitoring.
Maresca should move to Spain or Italy if he wants protection from sporting directors
Bit by bit the mystery of who Enzo Maresca was calling out on Saturday night when he made his comments about the last 48 hours being his “worst” at Chelsea is gradually being solved.
It seems that the Chelsea coach was taking issue with the fact that he didn’t have enough “protection” from the club after losing to Atalanta in the Champions League left him 4 games without a win.
It’s quite the power play to call out those above him so directly – clearly he’s feeling pretty comfortable in his position as coach now. Until now he’s been a company man.
Maresca making demands of sporting directors which aren’t common
Enzo Maresca shouts from the touchline. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Protection from criticism in the media? There’s only so much the club can do. Does he want another wave of briefs about his job security released to the usual insiders? If anything those feel like they undermine his position. There’s not much else those above him can do to protect him from criticism after bad results.
It’s not usual in English football for a sporting director or a senior club figure to come out and make comments after a game – for better and for worse. If he wants that, he should consider a move to Spain or Italy where that’s a lot more common.
In other Maresca bombshell news…
Chelsea’s transfer policy is something which was in place before the manager arrived, and it seems unlikely that he’s started railing against it now, but Ben Jacobs mentions it in his summary of the spat, so it could be a factor.
Maresca had lashed out in his post match press conference, and insider Jacobs had some thoughts on who his comments were aimed at. The manager speaks to the media later today and all eyes will be on him.
😱 Fiorentina: Europe or Serie B? Only 2 clubs survived, past cases 🅱️
Six points in 15 matches, a frightening standings and a direct clash lost against Verona that makes the worst-case scenario even more real. Fiorentina's season continues to slip away without any foothold, turning week after week into a waking nightmare.
The numbers are merciless. Viola is last in Serie A and, despite hopes, today the word that describes reality is just one: Serie B. A term that no one in Florence dares to utter, but which, as the days go by, stops being a taboo and becomes a real possibility.
😳 LAST PLACE AND CONCRETE SERIE B NIGHTMARE
We are now close to the halfway point and the team led by Vanoli is in desperate need of an immediate turnaround. Time is running out and recent European football history offers no reassuring footholds: when a club also engaged in Europe starts so poorly in the league, the outcome is rarely happy.
In the 21st century, among the main European leagues, only two teams have done worse than Fiorentina after 14 matches - and considering that in this case Viola has one more match compared to the proposed data, the situation becomes even more worrying -. We are talking about Hertha Berlin 2009/10 and Cologne 2017/18, stuck at 5 and 3 points respectively. In both cases, the end was marked by relegation.
📉 THE CONFERENCE DREAM AND THEN...
Yet, the Viola collapse is even more surprising when looking at the context. Florence is well familiar with the double weekly commitment: in the last two seasons, the Conference League was only narrowly missed, and thinking of such a crisis — especially after the previous years with Italiano and Palladino on the bench and Kean as a protagonist — seemed simply unthinkable.
— UEFA Conference League (@Conf_League) June 7, 2025
🅱️ CLUBS IN CUPS STARTED BADLY: THE PRECEDENTS
In Italian football, however, black seasons are not an exception. Since 2000, there have been 13 cases of teams falling below the average of one point per game by the 14th round. Fiorentina appears again in one of these, the 2001/02 season. Even then, the end was bitter: Serie B.
Only four times has the worst been avoided. Almost always starring Parma, managing to save themselves in 2001/02, 2004/05, and 2006/07. The exception being Milan 2006/07, starting with 8 penalty points and incredibly going on to win the Champions League.
All teams, however, at this point in the season had more points than the current Fiorentina. A detail that makes the picture even more alarming.
In short, yet another defeat in the league has highlighted a deep crisis, which does not seem destined to resolve quickly. The dismissal of Pioli and the arrival of Vanoli were supposed to mark a discontinuity, but the field tells a completely different story.
How Barcelona players are helping pave the way for Ronald Araujo’s return – report
Ronald Araujo’s continued absence remains one of the most discussed topics among Barcelona supporters.
Ever since the heavy 0-3 defeat to Chelsea, the Uruguayan defender has been on an indefinite leave, leaving fans searching for clarity over when, or even how, he might return.
While the setback against Chelsea acted as the breaking point, concerns surrounding Araujo’s situation had reportedly been building internally for weeks.
According to information from Catalunya Radio, relayed by SPORT, the uncertainty around the captain prompted several senior players to take a proactive step inside the dressing room.
What step has been taken?
Rather than allowing doubt to linger, a group of players approached Hansi Flick to express their concern and, more importantly, their willingness to help the team cope with Araujo’s absence.
The discussion reportedly took place in a collective huddle, with multiple players contributing and offering solutions.
During this exchange, the squad made it clear that they were ready to put themselves fully at the service of the team to compensate for the loss of one of their most influential figures.
Ronald Araujo’s return is still unknown. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Flick responded that the most effective way to support Araujo was not through words, but through performances.
As such, key figures such as Jules Kounde, Frenkie de Jong, and Andreas Christensen were involved in the conversation.
Some players, including Kounde and De Jong, even went a step further by making themselves available to play out of position if required, particularly in central defence.
Flick welcomed the attitude and used the moment to reinforce one of his core beliefs: versatility is one of the strongest assets within this Barcelona squad.
That belief is already being reflected on the pitch. Flick has regularly leaned on adaptable profiles such as Eric Garcia, Gerard Martin, Raphinha and Lamine Yamal, all of whom have shown a willingness to take on different roles when asked.
The internal discussion left the coach feeling encouraged, as it confirmed the unity and collective responsibility he considers essential for long-term success.
Real Madrid debutant reflects on special memory after Alaves win – ‘I’m going to frame my jersey’
Real Madrid’s victory over Alaves may have been defined by necessity, but one of the most compelling storylines came from an unexpected source.
In a moment where options were scarce and pressure was high, Xabi Alonso turned to the club’s academy, and Victor Valdepenas responded with maturity beyond his years.
The 2-1 win arrived under unusual circumstances. Alonso’s hand had been forced after the previous league clash against Celta Vigo left the squad severely depleted at left-back.
Alvaro Carreras and Fran Garcia were both sent off in that encounter, leaving the Real Madrid coach with no senior alternatives for the Alaves fixture. With no room for improvisation, the solution came from Castilla.
A moment he will never forget
Valdepenas was handed his first-team debut and, notably, was trusted from the start.
The young defender slotted into the left-back role and stayed on the pitch for 78 demanding minutes, holding his own in a match that required composure as much as discipline.
After the final whistle, the emotional weight of the moment became clear in his words to Real Madrid TV.
Speaking about what the debut meant to him, Valdepenas said, “It’s a dream, the dream of any child.
“I’ve been dreaming of it since I started playing football, and today I was able to fulfil it. What I feel is indescribable, and I’m absolutely thrilled, to be honest.”
The youngster then reflected on the early nerves that naturally accompanied such a milestone, while also highlighting the support he received from those around him.
“At first I was nervous, I won’t lie, but my teammates calmed me down and I thank them and the captains.
“It’s not every day you make your debut with Real Madrid, and even more so as a starter, but I’ve been able to handle it well thanks to everyone.”
A memento from the match
Beyond the performance itself, Valdepenas was already thinking about preserving the memory.
When asked about his debut shirt, he revealed its special place in his life, saying,
“This jersey is going in my room. I’m going to frame it there so I can see it every day and remember today.”
Finally, the defender turned his attention to those following the same path he once walked, offering words of encouragement to academy players still waiting for their chance.
Drawing from his own journey, he concluded, “I’ve been here since I was little and we’ve put in a lot of work. We have to be consistent and believe in this.”
Steven Gerrard waiting to receive Liverpool SOS call
Liverpool have been plagued by indifferent form this season.
The Anfield club’s Premier League title defence isn’t turning out the way they planned - especially after £450m worth of new signings.
Issues on the field have been compounded by drama off it - with Mo Salah’s hugely successful reign at the club set to be brought to a premature end.
It wasn’t supposed to be like this for Arne Slot - Liverpool’s head coach who led them to the title at the first time of asking.
Will Liverpool decide to sack Slot?
Due to the adverse results his club have suffered this season - not to mention the inconsistency of the performances - it has been suggested that a change could be made in the dugout.
It would represent a remarkable about-turn from the FSG hierarchy if Slot were to go so soon after winning the title. But goodwill and patience will only stretch so far so long as results remain uneven.
Slot is under contract until 2027 - meaning it wouldn’t cost the club a fortune to dispense with his services. The identity of a potential successor right now would be uncertain - with few top-quality managers available.
Steven Gerrard will go down as perhaps the greatest player in club history and according to Football Insider he would jump at the opportunity to succeed Slot even on a stop-gap basis.
“Steven Gerrard is “very keen” to return to Liverpool and would find it very difficult to reject an interim manager offer,” the report reads.
“Gerrard would be open to taking the reins on an interim basis should the opportunity arise.”
Gerrard managed Rangers and Aston Villa before embarking on an adventure with Al Ettifaq in the Saudi Pro League. He left his post earlier this year and hasn’t taken another job since.
But he would be willing to end his exile in order to take up the role at Anfield. Gerrard has got extensive experience of life as a coach at Liverpool too - and would no doubt bring some genuine heart and passion to the role.
First however and the focus has to be on winning matches. But if Slot can’t get this team back firing on a consistent basis then the time could soon come to send out the SOS to Gerrard.
Leny Yoro: Man United star participates in heart-warming gesture
Manchester United’s young defender Leny Yoro has demonstrated his kindness with his latest gesture.
Season to date
The 2025-2026 campaign has been an unusual one for Yoro.
The young French defender was outstanding in his first season in English football, arguably outperforming every other centre-back at the club.
This season has been more of a challenge, with the likes of Matthijs de Ligt and Luke Shaw regularly outperforming him.
What’s more, he has been left out of the starting eleven in the last two Premier League matches after giving away a penalty and generally struggling against Crystal Palace.
The youngster was visibly distraught at the end of the match at Selhurst Park at the end of November, in spite of an impressive win for Ruben Amorim’s side.
Despite this, the 20-year-old has still been a regular in the team and has played 15 league matches this season, providing one assist against Fulham.
Generosity off the pitch
The Sun reports that Yoro has continued his impressive work off the pitch with a charitable act.
The paper states that, “Leny Yoro has generously donated £1,500 to a Just Giving Page for a woman battling stage 4 Peritoneal cancer.”
British actor Luca Toolan – “who played Mason Ratcliffe in the ITV soap Coronation Street – set up a 24-hour charity stream to raise money for a brave businesswoman called Karla Jordan.”
The paper goes on to report that “Yoro – who is the top individual contributor – added a comment: ‘We’re all with you, Karla!'”.
The young French star could return to action tonight when United welcome AFC Bournemouth to Old Trafford, knowing a victory would take them into the Champions League places.
Leny Yoro 25-26 Season stats
Source: transfermarkt.comFeatured image Carl Recine via Getty Images
Dayot Upamecano’s future at Bayern Munich has become a growing source of tension inside the Allianz Arena, as the club continues to struggle to reach an agreement over a new long-term deal.
According to Foot Mercato, negotiations between the German champions and the French defender have stalled, with the player unimpressed by Bayern’s latest offer.
The 27-year-old’s contract runs out at the end of the current season, and if no breakthrough is made soon, Upamecano could become one of the most sought-after free agents in Europe next summer.
Real Madrid & PSG enter Dayot Upamecano race
Both Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are said to have already made their intentions clear, informing the player’s camp that they are willing to meet his wage demands should he opt to move on.
The French defender has been a key figure in the club’s defensive line. However, his future is now clouded by uncertainty, as Bayern’s management has so far been unable to match the financial terms proposed by other European clubs.
Bayern’s offer reportedly falls short of the salary structure Upamecano’s representatives are demanding, with the defender seeking a deal that reflects his status as one of Europe’s elite centre-backs.
The club, mindful of maintaining its wage balance, remains hesitant to meet those figures amid broader financial recalibrations following several high-profile signings.
Real Madrid have already established a verbal agreement on the basics of a contract, putting them in pole position should Upamecano become available on a free transfer.
Madrid’s interest comes as part of a wider strategy to strengthen their backline, with players like Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba facing an uncertain future.
Dayot Upamecano in action for Bayern Munich against Chelsea (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain are also pushing hard behind the scenes. The French champions have made direct contact with Upamecano’s camp, signaling that they can comfortably meet his financial expectations.
PSG view the France international as an ideal homegrown solution to fortify their defense alongside Marquinhos and Lucas Hernández.
For now, Upamecano remains focused on Bayern’s title campaign, but the club’s hierarchy is under increasing pressure to finalise an agreement before January, when the player would legally be free to negotiate pre-contract terms with foreign clubs.
Real Madrid are reportedly interested in signing Manchester United full-back Diogo Dalot, as per TEAMtalk, with the Spanish giants viewing the Portuguese international as a potential long-term reinforcement for their back line.
Despite the club’s signing of Trent Alexander-Arnold last summer, manager Xabi Alonso is said to want additional depth at right-back, particularly with veteran Dani Carvajal approaching the twilight of his career.
Dalot, 26, has been one of Man United’s most consistent performers under Ruben Amorim, impressing with his ability to defend as well as attack.
Capable of playing both as a right-back and left-back, Dalot’s versatility has made him a valuable asset for the Red Devils.
According to TEAMtalk, Real Madrid’s scouting department has been tracking Dalot since his standout performances for Portugal at international level.
The La Liga giants see him as a ready-made replacement for Carvajal, who turns 34 next year, and as a reliable rotation option for Alexander-Arnold in a system that demands high physical intensity and technical precision from full-backs.
At Old Trafford, there appears to be growing uncertainty over Dalot’s long-term future.
United’s director of football Jason Wilcox is said to be open to considering offers for the player, despite Dalot being under contract until 2028, with the club also holding an option for a further year.
Diogo Dalot applauds the Man United fans (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
While United are not actively looking to sell, their new recruitment model under INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe prioritises squad refreshment and financial balance.
If a significant offer arrives from Madrid or elsewhere, the Red Devils could be tempted to negotiate.
Real Madrid aren’t the only club weighing up a move. Atletico Madrid are also keen, with manager Diego Simeone reportedly identifying Dalot as an ideal fit for his system, which values defensively sound yet tactically flexible full-backs.
Meanwhile, Bayern Munich have expressed interest as part of their search for defensive reinforcements.
However, Real Madrid’s appeal, coupled with the chance to work under Alonso and compete regularly for silverware, would likely give Los Blancos an edge should Dalot become available.
Manchester City are closely monitoring Pedro Porro’s contract situation at Tottenham Hotspur, as reported by TEAMtalk.
The Premier League giants are in the market for a new right-back, and Porro’s name has re-emerged as a serious option, though Tottenham are determined to keep him and are already working on a new long-term deal to extend his stay beyond 2028.
Porro’s link to Manchester City dates back to 2019, when the club signed him from Girona for a reported £11 million.
Despite his potential, the Spanish full-back never made a senior appearance for City, spending loan spells at Real Valladolid and Sporting CP before making a permanent move to Lisbon.
Man City are interested in signing Pedro Porro
It was there that Porro truly developed into one of Europe’s most dynamic attacking right-backs, eventually earning a £39 million transfer to Tottenham in 2023.
Now, just three years later, City’s recruitment team are said to be keeping tabs on his progress, admiring how his game has evolved since leaving the Etihad.
Pep Guardiola reportedly views Porro as a technically gifted, attack-minded full-back capable of thriving in City’s inverted system, much like João Cancelo at his peak.
Tottenham, meanwhile, are in no mood to lose Porro. The club is currently negotiating a new improved contract that would make the 26-year-old one of their top earners.
Porro has been an integral figure under manager Thomas Frank, combining defensive reliability with creative flair.
The Spanish defender is known for not only his ability to defend but also to help the team in the attacking positions, something that has impressed Man City.
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is reportedly set to block any attempt by midfielder Kobbie Mainoo to leave Old Trafford on loan in the January transfer window, despite growing frustration from the player and increasing interest from abroad.
According to Italian outlet Il Mattino, Serie A champions Napoli have made Mainoo their top midfield target for January, with Antonio Conte personally pushing for a loan deal to strengthen his squad during the second half of the season.
Conte believes the 20-year-old Englishman’s energy, control, and vision could make him a key component of Napoli’s system as they aim to defend their league title.
However, Amorim has no plans to sanction his departure, even temporarily.
The Portuguese coach views Mainoo as a player who could still play a vital role in United’s campaign, particularly with several key stars set to leave for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in January.
Players such as Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo will be absent during that period, making squad depth crucial.
Once considered one of the brightest prospects in United’s academy, Mainoo’s progress has stalled since Amorim’s arrival.
Despite impressive showings under previous management, he has found himself on the fringes this season, struggling for minutes in a midfield packed with senior players.
Mainoo was already keen to go out on loan last summer, hoping to secure regular football to continue his development and keep his slim hopes of making England’s 2026 World Cup squad alive.
His patience has worn thin after being left out of multiple matchday squads in recent months.
The Italian champions believe the move could benefit all parties, giving the player much-needed game time while allowing United to monitor his progress from afar.
Napoli are interested in the Man United midfielder
Kobbie Mainoo of Man United (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
Napoli are also optimistic due to their strong relationship with Man United following recent transfer dealings, including the Scott McTominay move. That precedent could help smooth negotiations, though Amorim’s stance remains firm.
Despite his reluctance to select Mainoo regularly, Amorim is wary of losing too many midfield options midseason.
With Casemiro’s future uncertain and the club’s pursuit of reinforcements like Adam Wharton and Angelo Stiller unlikely to materialise until the summer, United simply cannot afford to weaken the squad further.
Amorim will hold direct talks with Mainoo in the coming days to reassure him of his place in the long-term project, even if short-term opportunities remain limited.
Report: Amorim To Block January Move For Man United Starlet
Amorim Draws Line as United Face January Dilemmas
Manchester United’s January transfer strategy is beginning to take shape, and it points firmly towards control rather than chaos. As first reported by Metro, Ruben Amorim is actively trying to block Kobbie Mainoo from leaving Old Trafford, despite growing interest from Serie A champions Napoli and the player’s own frustration at a lack of minutes.
United are not expected to be overly active during the winter window after spending more than £200m last summer. Amorim added Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Sesko and goalkeeper Senne Lammens, reshaping the attacking unit while leaving some established names in limbo. With midfield reinforcements unlikely in January, protecting squad depth has become a priority.
This is where Mainoo’s situation becomes emblematic of United’s wider balancing act between short term results and long term asset management.
Mainoo Situation Highlights Squad Tension
Kobbie Mainoo’s fall from prominence has been stark. Once viewed as one of United’s brightest prospects, his role has diminished sharply under Amorim. As Metro note, “England’s Euro 2024 star has started just one game this season – United’s Carabao Cup defeat to League Two side Grimsby Town.”
Photo IMAGO
Mainoo himself was keen to leave on loan last summer and is now reportedly desperate for a January exit to revive his career and keep his World Cup ambitions alive. Napoli, under Antonio Conte, see opportunity. Yet Amorim remains reluctant, aware that AFCON absences could suddenly elevate Mainoo’s importance.
January Plans Shaped by Market Reality
United’s restraint is driven as much by circumstance as strategy. Top midfield targets Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton and Elliot Anderson are unlikely to move mid season. As a result, United “will likely keep their powder dry until the summer transfer window.”
That caution explains Amorim’s resistance to departures. Losing Mainoo without a replacement would weaken flexibility during a congested second half of the campaign. United could climb to fifth with a win over Bournemouth, and European qualification remains firmly in sight.
Other Exit Links Add Pressure
Mainoo is not the only name drawing interest. Joshua Zirkzee, signed for £36.5m, has just one goal in nine appearances this season and is attracting attention from Roma and AC Milan. Ayden Heaven, Diego Leon and Sekou Kone are also considering loan moves.
Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna struck a measured tone on Mainoo, saying, “He’s a player who’s been linked to Napoli since August, partly because of his age, prospects, and opportunities.” For now, Amorim appears determined that those opportunities remain in Manchester.
Our View – EPL Index Analysis
From a Manchester United supporter’s perspective, this report feels both reassuring and unsettling. Reassuring because Amorim is finally projecting authority, refusing to let promising players drift away in January panic deals. Blocking a Mainoo exit signals that the manager still sees value, even if his team selections suggest otherwise.
At the same time, it raises uncomfortable questions about squad management. If Mainoo is important enough to keep, why has he been marginalised to this extent. Fans remember the player who dominated midfield moments and started a Euro 2024 final. Watching him reduced to cameo appearances feels like a waste of both talent and momentum.
There is also scepticism around the wider transfer logic. United accepting that no midfielder will arrive in January makes retaining Mainoo sensible, but it also highlights lingering recruitment inefficiencies. Supporters want clarity, not just control.
Amorim’s stance may pay off during AFCON when depth matters. Yet if Mainoo continues to sit unused, frustration will only grow. For fans, this feels like a holding pattern, necessary perhaps, but hardly inspiring. The second half of the season must bring either trust or transition, because standing still rarely works at Old Trafford.
Chelsea fans set for next chapter in Maresca’s battle with hierarchy in today’s press conference
Chelsea’s win over Everton at the weekend was pretty routine. What followed in the press conference was not.
Manager Enzo Maresca, in the middle of a routine answer about Malo Gusto’s form, suddenly started speaking in a passionate way about how this had been his “worst 48 hours” since joining Chelsea.
Nobody really knew what he meant, and his follow up answers remained cryptic. But it was clear he was upset by something, and we’ve been waiting to find out what.
Yesterday the well connected insider Ben Jacobs came through with an update, although it still doesn’t get too specific about what’s wrong.
Jacobs says Maresca ire aimed upwards
Enzo Maresca has a tense moment in his press conference.
“Enzo Maresca has an internal issue at Chelsea which prompted his post-match comments about not feeling supported, talkSPORT understands,” Jacobs wrote.
“talkSPORT understands his frustration has been brewing for some time despite qualifying for the Champions League in his first season in charge and claiming both the Europa League and Club World Cup.”
So it does indeed sound like this anger is directed at his bosses at Chelsea rather than at the fans or the media. That’s a pretty explosive move to make from the coach, and we still don’t know in what way he wants to be supported more. He’s clearly feeling comfortable in the manager’s chair if he’s making
We will find out more later today at the manager’s press conference ahead of our EFL Cup game against Cardiff tomorrow, although we can expect a very smoothed off, well rehearsed answer by then.
Fabio Silva still considered Roma’s main alternative to Zirkzee
Gian Piero Gasperini has been clear with the club: he wants at least one offensive reinforcement in January.
The target is a striker and the renowned right-footed left-back, but the manager would be happy with a versatile player like Fabio Silva, who could be back in fashion after summer interest.
Joshua Zirkzee remains at the top of Frederic Massara’s list. He’s a No. 9 with the class of a trequartista who can play all attacking roles and who knows the Italian league well.
Negotiations with Manchester United, however, are far from straightforward, which is why Roma is studying alternatives.
After Celtic vs. Roma, Frederic Massara didn’t fly to the capital, but headed to England.
Representatives of the 2001-born player awaited him there.
The Red Devils’ demands are clear: €30-35 million, immediately.
However, as reported in Corriere dello Sport, the Giallorossi sporting director is ready to negotiate: he will free up space to offer the English club a costly loan, perhaps even exceeding €7 million.
The only certainty, however, is that Zirkzee himself will need to push for the transfer. The striker, however, is needed immediately; Gasperini needs him, and the tight league standings are a dream.
So Fabio Silva’s name is back in the news. The Giallorossi are reportedly ready to offer the German club the same deal they had for Zirkzee: a costly loan with an option or obligation.
The Portuguese has failed to establish himself in Germany and has collected one goal and three assists in just 364 minutes.
The 2002-born player had been waiting a long time for the Giallorossi in the summer, and continues to keep an eye on them: after a few months this push and pull could end with a happy ending.
Richard Hughes sleepwalking into MAJOR midfield transfer error
It's inevitable that Liverpool will need to make additions to their midfield pack in the near future.
Against Brighton on Saturday, the starting XI featured Florian Wirtz, Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch and Curtis Jones, with just Wataru Endo missing out with an injury. The slight caveat here is that Arne Slot chose against playing any out-and-out wingers in the front line.
Nonetheless, if this is the system that is going to help bring more consistency to the team's performances, then we might need to invest in signing greater depth to help make it happen.
What's frustrating to hear, however, is that Liverpool are no longer in the running for one of the best talents available on the market, with other Premier League teams heavily interested in making a move.
Hughes is making a big mistake
Liverpool's sporting director was praised heavily over the summer for the club's remarkable recruitment effort, and he's since come under fire for the team's poor form, with the new signings failing to hit the ground running. There is a multitude of different opinions on the transfer guru.
Right now, however, it appears as though he might be making a big mistake when it comes to the speculation around young AZ Alkmaar midfield prospect Kees Smit, who could leave in January.
The I Paper is reporting that Chelsea are currently frontrunners in the race for him, with Newcastle, Tottenham and Manchester United all following behind. Right now, a £25m valuation has been placed on the 19-year-old star and it's expected that offers in that region could force the club to sell him.
What's problematic here, is that Liverpool are not mentioned as one of the interested parties, when previous reports from CaughtOffside have extensively reported a different story. Since this is the most recent update we have on the Dutchman, it only feels right to take this information as gospel.
The report also notes that Smit's international manager Ronald Koeman said that he's a similar player to Pedri at Barcelona - comparing him to the former Kopa Trophy winner is an enormous compliment.
And yet, it's probably the most apt way to describe him as a player, because his heat map for the season is all over the pitch, spreading far and wide. He's deep as a No. 6 at times, central in a more No. 8 style, and even getting goals and assists as a false No. 10. He has five goal contributions.
What's perhaps most impressive about Smit is that he's played 2000 minutes for Alkmaar across this campaign so far, and we're only half-way into December. Having that level of fitness at his age, and delivering to such a standard that Maarten Martens doesn't feel he can drop him, is truly remarkable.
For around £30m, it's a no-brainer of a transfer move for Liverpool, especially when you consider how vast the Dutch contingent on Merseyside is. Cody Gakpo, Virgil Van Dijk, Jeremie Frimpong and Gravenberch, alongside Slot and his coaching staff, could all keep him company.
And while it's already been said, it's worth reiterating how essential it is for the Reds to have midfield depth. Against Brighton, Slot used all but Endo in his starting XI. There was no one else on the bench.
Roma interested in Fiorentina left-back Niccolo Fortini
Roma are reportedly seeking several reinforcements ahead of the January window.
The Giallorossi management are in fact determined to deliver Gasperini with new additions to the squad that will keep the team competitive across all competitions.
One of the latest names linked with Roma is that of Fiorentina left-back Niccolo Fortini.
According to Il Messaggero, Roma are one of the clubs interested in the 19-year-old who has already refused a new contract proposal from the Viola.
His deal with Fiorentina expires in 2027 and given the way the season is going for Vanoli’s side, Fortini could opt for a move in January.
Chelsea leading the race to sign Premier League man but he has eyes elsewhere
Chelsea are apparently leading the race to sign a Premier League player according to an exclusive report over the weekend.
However, said player may well have his eyes elsewhere, which then makes me wonder, how can Chelsea be leading the race to sign him if he wants to go elsewhere?
EXCL: The full inside story of what is going on between Enzo Maresca and the Chelsea hierarchy as tensions reach boiling point!
Either way, Chelsea are certainly one of the many clubs who have been looking at signing Kobbie Mainoo from Manchester United.
The midfielder looks set to leave the his club very soon, and you wouldn’t bet against a move happening in the January transfer window due to the fact that Mainoo is just not being picked for United right now and will be in search of further minutes to go off and play for the rest of this season.
I actually think for that reason that this would pretty much rule Chelsea out, because Mainoo isn’t going to be a starter in our midfield right now, is he?
What the report says
Kobbie Mainoo warms up for Manchester United. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)
Although at least 12 clubs are reportedly in the race, sources close to the situation have informed CaughtOffside that Chelsea and Bayern Munich are “leading the chase”. However, the player’s personal preference list still places Napoli as the frontrunner. Mainoo is prioritising where he can be a guaranteed starter as he plots his next move.
Conclusions
The end of this report is probably all you need to read about it. If Mainoo wants to go somewhere he can be a regular starter, then he isn’t going to chose Chelsea is he?
Unless Chelsea got some big injuries to Enzo Fernandez and/or Moises Caicedo, then Mainoo is never starting ahead of them two. Then you have the likes of Andrey Santos who is even not getting much game time himself, waiting in the wings. Cole Palmer is back and will be playing in midfield too. There’s just no chance of regular game time there for Mainoo.
🎥 Incognito with a twist: masked Neymar causes a stir in New York
A week ago, Neymar just managed to prevent relegation with Santos FC, and now the Brazilian is using a few free days for relaxation before he has to undergo another knee surgery.
Together with his entourage, Neymar is currently in New York. A global star like him doesn't necessarily have an easy time staying unnoticed in a metropolis of millions. He tried nonetheless - but with little success, which could possibly be due to his extravagant outfit.
Neymar 🇧🇷 obligé de mettre une cagoule pour ne pas être reconnu à Times Square. 😭
Combien de joueurs de foot dans le monde seraient dans le même cas à New-York ?
The incognito mode is only partially achieved with these bright colors and the mask. Even though there are many flamboyant characters in the Big Apple, Neymar definitely stands out with his look. Or was that exactly the plan?
In any case, Neymar is not entirely alone in New York.
☕️🥐 FC Breakfast: CR7 heading to the big screen 🎥, friendship tifo 🫂
🎥 Cristiano Ronaldo soon in the cinema?
In an enigmatic Instagram post, Vin Diesel, the star of Fast & Furious, explained that Cristiano Ronaldo has a role planned for him in the famous action film series.
"Everyone has been asking if he would be in the Fast and Furious mythology... I have to tell you, he's a real guy. We've written a role for him..."
Cristiano Ronaldo has a role written for him by Vin Diesel in Fast & Furious 🤯
It's the beautiful image of the weekend. To celebrate their friendship with the Nuremberg ultras, those from Schalke unveiled a superb joint tifo during the match between the two teams. Sublime!
Manchester United vs Bournemouth – Match Preview and Team News
Manchester United welcome Bournemouth to Old Trafford on Monday night. They are aiming to build on their impressive victory at Molineux and continue their ascent up the Premier League table.
Ruben Amorim’s side appear to have turned a corner recently. They have lost just one of their last nine Premier League games. Furthermore, they have collected more points in this period than in their previous 17 matches combined. The Red Devils arrive in high spirits after thrashing Wolves 4-1 last weekend. However, they face a Bournemouth side currently enduring a slump.
The Cherries are winless in their last six league matches. This is their longest such streak since early 2024. Despite their recent struggles, Andoni Iraola’s men have a formidable recent record at the Theatre of Dreams. They have won their last two away games against United by a 3-0 scoreline on both occasions.
Manchester United vs Bournemouth – Match Preview and Team News
Date: Monday, 15 December 2025
Kick-off: 20:00 GMT
Venue: Old Trafford, Manchester
Referee: Simon Hooper
VAR: Paul Howard
Last Meeting: Manchester United 4-1 Bournemouth, 31 July 2025, Premier League Summer Series
Team News
Manchester United
Ruben Amorim confirmed that defenders Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire remain sidelined with injuries. Furthermore, striker Benjamin Šeško is a major doubt due to food poisoning and will be assessed late. With defensive options limited, the manager may be forced to shuffle his backline. However, Amad Diallo, Noussair Mazraoui, and Bryan Mbeumo are expected to be available before departing for the Africa Cup of Nations.
Bournemouth
Andoni Iraola faces a midfield selection headache. Lewis Cook serves the second game of his three-match suspension for a red card against Sunderland. Additionally, Ryan Christie and Ben Doak remain sidelined. Defensively, Marcos Senesi is a doubt after suffering cramps against Chelsea. However, the defender is optimistic about featuring. Young defender Veljko Milosavljevic is out for a couple of months with a knee injury.
Form
Manchester United
United’s recent resurgence has seen them climb the table. However, defensive fragility remains an issue. They have kept just one clean sheet in 15 Premier League games this season. Under Amorim, the team has recorded a clean sheet ratio of just 14.3%. Conversely, their attack is firing. Bruno Fernandes has been involved in eight goals in his last eight games.
Bournemouth
The Cherries have hit a wall offensively. They have failed to score in their last two Premier League games. In fact, they managed just 18 shots in those goalless draws. Historically, this fixture has been tricky for United recently. They are winless in their last four meetings with Bournemouth. If Bournemouth win, they would become the first side ever to win three consecutive top-flight away games against Manchester United while scoring three or more goals each time.
Predicted Lineups
Manchester United predicted XI: Lammens; Mazraoui, Heaven, Shaw; Diallo, Casemiro, Fernandes, Dalot; Mbeumo, Mount; Cunha
Andoni Iraola knows who Man United’s biggest threat is – and it’s not Fernandes, Cunha or Mbeumo
Ahead of Manchester United welcoming Bournemouth to Old Trafford for the final fixture of gameweek 16 tonight, Andoni Iraola has singled out Amad Diallo for praise.
The Cherries have claimed back-to-back 3-0 wins in their last two trips to the stadium in 2023/2024 and 2024/2025, so United will be doing their utmost to put an end to such a run when play gets underway at 8pm.
How Iraola’s Cherries fare before United clash
What could indeed bode well in the Reds’ favour is that Bournemouth are winless in their last six outings, sustaining four losses and two defeats to leave them in the bottom half of the table.
Unfortunately for Iraola, it was perhaps to be expected when the board facilitated the sales of the likes of Dean Huijsen, Milos Kerkez and Illia Zabarnyi over the summer.
Keeping hold of forward talisman Antoine Semenyo was the best piece of business they could’ve done, but even he’s expected to be on his way out in January thanks to the £65 million release clause in his contract that becomes active in the New Year.
Iraola: Amad becoming a ‘bigger’ threat
(Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
In the meantime, Iraola had his say on which United players he expects to cause his side problems in M16 this evening, telling reporters: “The signings they have made up front — [Bryan] Mbeumo, [Matheus] Cunha, [and] Sesko [are threatening] — but especially players like Amad, who is now even more important.
“He is an even bigger threat, and we have to be ready to defend difficult duels for the full-backs and for the centre-backs because you have to defend some very good players in open spaces.”
Kobbie Mainoo: Surprise club emerge as favourites for United ace
Ruben Amorim has faced plenty of heat for his utilisation of Manchester United wonderkid Kobbie Mainoo this season.
Not too long ago, the Carrington graduate was starring for the Red Devils as they overcame Manchester City in the FA Cup final. Who can forget his injury-time winner against Olympique Lyonnais last season?
From those heady heights, the Englishman has fallen on hard times under the head coach in this campaign. A total of zero starts in the Premier League has meant the 20-year-old is desperate to jump ship in January.
It is clear from Amorim’s comments that the England international is unlikely to see too many minutes unless there are injuries or the head coach shuffles his pack.
A whole host of clubs are chasing the United No.37, and while Napoli remains his preferred destination, CaughtOffside have claimed that Chelsea are leading the race.
The Blues had signed fellow Carrington graduate Alejandro Garnacho in the summer and are now looking to add more young talents from the Red Devils.
Bayern Munich are also strong contenders. Thankfully for the 20-time English league champions, the Stockport-born ace remains committed to his boyhood club, and wants only a temporary exit to boost his England World Cup hopes.
He prefers a foreign club, and the co-owners are unlikely to sanction a deal to a domestic top-four unless it involves an offer too good to be refused.
“Although at least 12 clubs are reportedly in the race, sources close to the situation have informed CaughtOffside that Chelsea and Bayern Munich are “leading the chase”.
Chelsea leading the race, hopefully INEOS don’t sell
“It will be interesting to see if Chelsea can convince Manchester United to sell. They are looking to build a formidable team for the future, and the England International midfielder could be the final piece of the puzzle for them.
“However, the player’s personal preference list still places Napoli as the frontrunner. Mainoo is prioritising where he can be a guaranteed starter as he plots his next move.”
Hopefully, it does not come to that and the talented star remains at Old Trafford for the foreseeable future.
Possibly, AFCON departures could finally force Amorim to hand Kobbie Mainoo more gametime. And the midfielder must grab his chance with both hands when it arrives.
BlueCo manager says he will find new players if his don’t do what he says
A manager who is part of Chelsea’s BlueCo enterprise has said that his players must do what he says, otherwise he will find new ones.
It sounds like a stern bit of tough love after they failed to win at home over the weekend and stay 7th in their league.
EXCL: The full inside story of what is going on between Enzo Maresca and the Chelsea hierarchy as tensions reach boiling point!
For once, I am not talking about Enzo Maresca here either.
We are of course speaking on Strasbourg head coach Liam Rosenior after his side drew 0-0 with Lorient on Sunday afternoon in their latest game.
Rosenior has generally been doing very well at Strasbourg and they have been pushing on in the league. But they would like to be in a better position right now, even still.
Some strict words from the gaffer
Liam Rosenior in a Strasbourg press conference.
After the game, Rosenior has clearly been disappointed with set pieces from his side this season and seems to suggest that they players are not doing what he is telling them to do and also, they are missing Andrey Santos, who was of course at Strasbourg last season but is now back at Chelsea.
“He [Andrey Santos] is missed, he was huge on set pieces. Today, there are unacceptable things on corners, free kicks. My players must do what I ask. Otherwise, we’ll find others.”
In other news today
Chelsea are apparently the frontrunners to sign one player who has played just 183 minutes so far this season, according to the latest transfer report out over the weekend.
Meanwhile, Enzo Maresca has been warned to keep his mouth shut by one BBC pundit this week following comments he made after the Everton game on Saturday.
It will be made official after a meeting this Monday with Pedro Lourenço and Pedro Junio, president and vice-president of the SAF celeste.
Tite, available on the market and targeted by Internacional, is reportedly on Cruzeiro's radar.
According to the report, some staff members and part of the Cruzeiro squad were already aware of Jardim's desire.
Artur Jorge, former Botafogo coach and currently leading Al-Rayyan in Qatar, is another person of interest.
Jardim joined Cruzeiro in February of this year to replace Fernando Diniz.
The team was runner-up in the Mineiro, eliminated in the group stage of the Sul-Americana, and finished third in the Brasileirão before being knocked out in the semifinals of the Copa do Brasil.
‘He needs to decide whether he wants to be a great player’ – Roberto De Zerbi on Marseille captain Leonardo Balerdi
Since coming back from injury, Olympique de Marseille captain Leonardo Balerdi (26) has featured twice on the bench – both coming in the last two fixtures against Monaco and Union Saint-Gilloise. Instead, Nayef Aguerd has been preferred even if the Moroccan has been suffering with Pubalgia in the last few weeks, and has not been at 100% fitness ahead of what will be a significant AFCON campaign with his native Atlas Lions over the winter. At a press conference attended by Get French Football News, Marseille boss Roberto De Zerbi has said that Balerdi’s problem is not physical, and that he has benched the Argentine by choice in the Champions League and now Ligue 1. “Leo is fine physically, It annoys me to leave him on the bench because I love him a lot,” said De Zerbi after OM’s 1-0 win over Monaco at the Stade Vélodrome on Sunday evening. “And he knows why,” the Italian added. “He needs to go to another level. He needs to decide whether he wants to become a great player, and not just a player that has great potential – with and without the ball.”Speaking exclusively with Get French Football News last month, Balerdi admitted he is aware he could be dropped by De Zerbi despite being the captain of the club. “When there’s competition, it’s better. I love healthy competition. There are a lot of changes each match and yes, I can end up on the bench – and I know that.”The former Dortmund man also revealed his ambition to represent Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup this summer. “My objective is to go to the World Cup. It would be a dream to win something with the national team. But I have to stay in the present – otherwise my head will explode with everything else happening.”GFFN | George Boxall– Reporting from Stade Vélodrome, Marseille
Every word of Ruben Amorim’s Bournemouth press conference – embargoed section
Ruben Amorim has drawn a parallel between Kobbie Mainoo, Harry Amass and Chido Obi, stating that he selected players who are now “struggling in the Championship” and “not always a starter in the Under-21s”, even at a time when people were calling for him to be sacked. The Manchester United head coach was speaking in the embargoed section of the pre-match press conference ahead of Monday’s clash with Bournemouth at Old Trafford.
United currently lie eighth in the Premier League, but a win would move them up to fifth.
The effect of pundits’ comments
The first question in this section was: “We’ve got a few players in the past few days that have their say about Kobbie Mainoo; Paul Scholes, Rio Ferdinand. I don’t want to get you on Kobbie again. You don’t need to talk about that. But as a manager, as the head coach here, how frustrating is it for you to have ex-players and pundits having their say like this? There’s been previous people that have been in your seat there who have got very frustrated about ex-players here, being quite vocal about what happened.”
Amorim answered:
“Again, I think it’s normal. I think it’s a fact that me as a manager of Manchester United, I think we are underachieving. We should have more points, especially this season. So I take that naturally. Sometimes they don’t have all the information. They see Manchester United with the standards that they lived here, always winning. So it’s hard for them to see their club in this situation.”
“About Kobbie, I can speak about Kobbie every press conference. Sometimes it’s harder for me to speak after the game. It’s always the same situation for me. All of them are the same. I know that for you guys, there are some players that you believe a lot, and I believe a lot. But sometimes I have to make a choice. We play with two midfielders in these games. We could change in the future. But Kobbie Mainoo, he’s playing in the same position as Bruno Fernandes. Sometimes it’s really hard. Sometimes it’s really hard to take Bruno Fernandes out of the team, and that is the only reason.”
The reporter asked, “Is what they say making your job harder?”
“No, it’s not winning,” he answered. “I think not winning is the issue. Of course, you can point to a lot of things, and they point a lot of things that we need to improve, but the big issue is not winning. If I’m winning, I can go to the games on a horse, arrive there, playing with just two defenders, and everything will be fine. The problem is that me as a manager, I’m not doing good enough. And that is a fact also, and I can accept that. So that is the only problem for them, is that Manchester United is not winning, and is not in the position that’s supposed to be.”
Amorim was asked if the pundit comments are different at United compared to his previous club, Sporting. Have you found it to be different here, the way that the ex-players speak in the meantime?
“Here, it’s completely different,” he admitted. “We have the best league in the world, and there’s a lot of things around the game. Every press conference, I live here and I’m going to give an interview. So it’s a completely different world. Again, in Sporting, there is no issue because we were winning all the time. So if you are winning, there is no issue. So accolades. So I understand that, and that’s okay.”
The next question was about Benjamin Sesko, who Amorim said in the first part of the presser, could return from injury tomorrow. Does Bryan Mbeumo and Amad’s impending absence due to AFCON give him an opportunity to “reset”?
Amorim replied:
“I think it’s not just Ben, but everyone. I think we need to adapt a little bit the way we are going to play the games. That is a good opportunity to do that because we cannot think that we are going to play the way without Amad, Bryan, and Nouss, but especially Amad and Bryan, because of the characteristics that is really hard to get. They have more or less the same characteristics, both of them, and we are losing them for a few games, but it’s a good opportunity for us to try to play in the different way.”
The next question was picking up on Amorim’s comment in the first part of the presser about Bournemouth having a “special player”. Did he mean Antoine Semenyo, and might he be a transfer target?
“Yes [I meant Semenyo] … No, it’s not that case [that he’s a target]. I think there is a lot of special players in the league. What I feel is that it’s to summarize, the top manager, top team. I really like the team and the top player, I think, is a special player.”
Why does Amorim substitute centre-backs so often?
“Just on the centre-backs you discussed it earlier,” the next reporter asked. “I think you’ve made substitutions to centre-back 19 times this season. Is that just for the load management of those players where a few of them are picking up injuries?”
“Sometimes it’s a little bit bad luck,” he explained. “Ayden was suffering and asked us to change. Nouss had that knock and asked us, he was talking about that. Diogo is a defender, not a centre-back. He had an issue. Most of the times, Harry Maguire sometimes has an issue. Sometimes, that situation, that occurs a lot of times. Sometimes it’s a tactical issue because I believe that those are the guys that have to start all the plays and the quality comes from. But a lot of times also we need to change because of the physical aspect.”
Asked who he leans on when he is struggling, the boss replied:
“Myself. I just watched the games and sometimes we play well, sometimes we are not consistent. I think we need to work on the variability of the way we play, especially in the build-up. I think I need to find different ways to take all the juice from the team, from the squad. I need to inspire a lot of players that are not playing in a different way, and that’s maybe something about the way we play. I’m just trying to find out solutions to win more games.”
On Luke Shaw‘s form
The next question was: “Just ask you quickly on Luke Shaw. He’s played the third most minutes of any United player this season behind Bruno and Brian and Mbeumo. Last season, in previous seasons, he’s not been available that much. What do you think has changed?”
Amorim replied:
“I think it changed the position, I think it helps Luke Shaw to cope with everything. We are taking care of his body. Now, he’s not a concern. I think he feels motivated. Maybe it’s also something that helps. It’s just Luke Shaw. That’s it. Sometimes it’s just one season that you feel better, you are understanding better your body. I don’t know the specific reason, but I feel that Luke Shaw is in a good moment.”
Back to Kobbie Mainoo
The reporters steered the conversation back yet again to Kobbie Mainoo. Amorim was asked, “if he comes to you and says, That’s what I want [a loan] in January, will you sanction that, given how little playing time he is getting?”
“First of all, I said the same thing. The team comes first,” he said. “If Kobbie comes to me and talk to me, I will talk with him. I’m not going to say what I’m going to say to Kobbie, but I will be really pleased if Kobbie is coming to talk to me about that. I just want my players happy, and I understand that every individual has their goals. The frustration, it doesn’t help anybody. But again, the focus is in this game, and we will see if that happens.”
Has he not had that real conversation with him this season, “in terms of him airing his frustration”?
“Not about that,” he said. “I had some conversations with him, especially last year, and with other players, but about that subject, no, I didn’t speak with him.
Is he open to having that kind of discussion with a player?
“Completely open,” he confirmed. “I think that is clear. What I don’t promise is to… I have my ideas, and that is also clear, that I will not change if I don’t believe it, but I’m open to speak with any player. I love that.”
Amorim was then asked whether Mainoo could play in Casemiro’s role. “Yes.”
The reporter continued, “You always say that he’s competing with Bruno, which I completely respect. But what about that? Because Casemiro sometimes comes off after 60, 65 minutes.”
Amorim answered:
“I think against West Ham was Manu [Ugarte] that comes for Bruno position. Bruno goes up because I was feeling that with 10 minutes, it’s going to be long balls, second balls. I was thinking that. I think it was against Everton. I took Casemiro out, I think, and I put Kobs in that because we were trying to play a different game. He can play in that position, but it’s hard sometimes if you look at our team with Cunya Bryan, sometimes Bruno, that you guys say that is a number 10.”
“Sometimes Kobbie Mainoo, you have to think, I’m the guy for blocking transitions, all these things. He needs to spend more time there, but he can be in the future that position. I don’t know what is going to happen. Again, I’m always talking about the same thing. Toby [Collyer], and this injury, he’s returning here. He is from the academy, he played here, went to West Bromwich, he’s not playing. He played for Manchester United! So sometimes it’s not because he’s from the academy or whatever. It’s the situation, what’s happened. I don’t know what is going to be the future. Let’s see after this match.”
The next reporter cut to the chase: “May I just ask for a second, do you actually rate him [Mainoo] as a footballer? Do you think he’s a very good player? Do you actually rate him as a prospect?”
“Of course, like everyone else!” Amorim insisted. “The problem is that we are playing with two, and you guys see Kobbie in the different way that I’m seeing. Maybe if you play with three midfielders, not with just two, but with three, Kobbie would have more minutes. And imagine that this happens. Someone in front is going to lose their spot. Sometimes it’s just the moment.”
“Again, I think I proved that if you change my mind, because Casemiro, I think, is the biggest example. He was behind Toby, and now he’s a starter.”
Would he prefer a player to be “more proactive” and come to him and ask him what he needs to do?
“The door is open for any player to change my mind. But in the end, it’s going to be the training, the games. Of course, he’s not playing so many games, but Kobs had opportunities, especially last year. Everyone had. Amass is now struggling in the Championship. Chido [Obi] is not always a starter in the Under-21. All these guys played when a lot of people were saying, sack the manager. So, you can see that I’m not worried. During that time, everybody. I’m just look at the team and try to win the next game and try to think about the team. I will do that until the end. Kobs is one more player that I understand all the interest. I understand how important it is, the hopes that you guys as an English guy has. I also just want to win. If he’s the right guy, I will put him. No problem.”
Monaco react to controversial refereeing decision in Marseille defeat
AS Monaco certainly had the chances to beat Olympique de Marseille. Les Monégasques even found the back of the net twice in the second half, but lost 1-0 against OM thanks to a late Mason Greenwood strike.
Folarin Balogun’s disallowed goal, Monaco’s second of the night, came just before Greenwood’s winner. There was no debating that decision, a clear offside, but his involvement in a disallowed goal earlier in the half was more than a little contentious.
Balgoun was offside but did not seem to interfere in play, but the initial offside call stood. Whilst post-match, Sébastien Pocognoli did not wish to criticise the refereeing performance, Lamine Camara, the scorer of that controversially disallowed offside goal, did not hide his incomprehension.
“There is frustration tonight. We have looked back at my disallowed goal in the dressing room, and we still haven’t understood why [it was disallowed],” reacted the Senegal international in a post-match mixed zone interview attended by Get French Football News.
📹 Corinthians beat Cruzeiro on penalties, reach Copa do Brasil final 🇧🇷
At Neo Química Arena, with more than 47,000 fans in attendance, Corinthians defeated Cruzeiro on penalties by 5-4, after a 2-1 loss in regular time (having won 1-0 in the first leg), and qualified for the 2025 Copa do Brasil final.
ACABOOOOOOOUUUUU!!!!!!!!! ESTAMOS NA FINAAAAAAAAAL, FIEEEEEELLLL!!!! ⚫⚪
O CORINTHIANS VENCE O CRUZEIRO NOS PÊNALTIS E É FINALISTA DA COPA DO BRASIL 2025!!!!!!!! 🦅
Determined to overturn the advantage held by the São Paulo side, Raposa dominated the first half.
Hugo Souza performed a miracle on Matheus Pereira’s beautiful volley and, on Sinisterra’s rebound, defender Gustavo Henrique managed to block the shot.
However, after good ball movement, Matheus Henrique found William on the right, who passed to Christian.
The sky-blue winger crossed into the box, and Arroyo, who had just come onto the field, got ahead of Matheuzinho to head the ball powerfully into the net.
Timão was not shaken and took just five minutes to pull one back.
Rodrigo Garro took a free kick into the box, André Ramalho headed it back across goal at the far post, Cássio came out poorly, and Matheus Bidu finished with a header into the net.
Pushed on by the Fiel Torcida, Corinthians began to press Cruzeiro hard and, besides giving Cássio a lot of work, also hit the post twice, with Matheus Bidu’s bicycle kick and Breno Bidon.
Corinthians: Depay, Garro, Vitinho, Gustavo Henrique, and Breno Bidon converted; Yuri Alberto missed
Cruzeiro: Matheus Pereira, Wanderson, William, Lucas Silva scored; Gabigol and Walace missed
Mosaic
As the teams entered the field, the Corinthians fans unveiled a beautiful 3D mosaic recalling the club’s three Copa do Brasil titles.
The first, in 1995, against Grêmio, at the old Estádio Olímpico; the second in 2002, against Brasiliense, at Estádio Boca do Jacaré in Taguatinga; and finally, in 2009, against Internacional, at Beira-Rio.
The Dane was brought in with a long-term project in mind and the former Brentford manager reminded the hierarchy the need to be patient, insisted that the club’s problems run deeper than the manager and that stability is the only path to success.
When asked about his job, Frank told reporters: “I think it is extremely important to be calm and measured and of course have very very direct and clear messages at the right time.
“So they are not in doubt of what I think because and very honest about where we are as well as I was very honest it was a very bad performance. No two ways about that.
“But also know that to change this this will take some time. If no one gets the time, no one can turn this around. This is NOT a quick fix.”
"Know that to change this it will take some time… but no one will want to hear about that, it's just reality."
Frank took over the Spurs job in the summer following the shock sacking of Ange Postecoglou who had just ended Tottenham’s long awaited trophy drought.
He came in with big reputation for his work at Brentford but so far, the start to his tenure at Spurs has been mixed.
Competition
Played
Wins
Draws
Losses
Goals Scored
Points Per Game
Premier League
16
6
4
6
22
1.38
UEFA Champions League
6
3
2
1
11
1.83
EFL Cup
2
1
–
1
3
1.50
UEFA Super Cup
1
–
–
1
–
0.00
Total / Average
25
10
6
9
36
1.40
Thomas Frank’s stats for Tottenham via Transfermarkt
Who could replace Thomas Frank if he is sacked?
Tottenham Hotspur manager Thomas Frank (left) and Richarlison stand dejected after the Premier League match at the City Ground, Nottingham. Picture date: Sunday December 14, 2025. (Photo by Martin Rickett/PA Images via Getty Images)
In the event that the Tottenham board decides to part ways with yet another manager, there are some interesting candidates who could potentially take over.
Fulham boss Marco Silva remains a top choice, who is yet to renew his contract with the London club.
Silva is keen on taking a new challenge and will no doubt relish the opportunity to manage a club like Spurs.
Another name is Oliver Glasner who too is expected to leave Crystal Palace at the end of the season.
Egypt vs Nigeria Friendly: Date, Time, Venue and Preview
Egypt step up AFCON 2025 preparations with Nigeria friendly
Egypt vs Nigeria Friendly: Date, Time, Venue and Preview
Egypt & Nigeria have both intensified their preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with high-profile friendly scheduled for Tuesday night at Cairo International Stadium.
Serving as final rehearsal before the tournament kicks off in Morocco.
The Pharaohs led by head coach Hossam Hassan held their latest training session at the Cairo Stadium as they fine-tune their plans for the continental showpiece which begins on 21 December and runs until 18 January 2026.
Egypt Complete final test before Departure to Morocco
Egypt will host Nigeria at 18:00 GMT on Tuesday in what represents their last friendly ahead of AFCON 2025. The Egyptian delegation set to travel to Morocco immediately after the game.
Egypt have been drawn in Group B where they will face:
Zimbabwe
South Africa
Angola
The 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations will be staged in Morocco featuring 24 team.
Nigeria begin Cairo Camp ahead of Egypt Clash
Nigeria’s build-up to AFCON 2025 officially got underway in Cairo on Sunday with several players reporting to the Super Eagles’ camp.
Midfielders Fisayo Dele-Bashiru & Akinsanmiro Ebenezer joined goalkeepers Francis Uzoho & Stanley Nwabali bringing the early camp attendance to four player as more arrivals are expected in the coming hours.
The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed that the technical and backroom staff were already fully assembled as preparations entered their final phase.
First-choice goalkeeper Nwabali arrived later in the day easing recent concerns over his fitness following ankle & hand issues.
His inclusion in Eric Chelle’s final 28 man AFCON squad reflects the coaching staff’s confidence in his recovery. The 29 year old has been Nigeria’s undisputed No1 since AFCON 2023 where he helped the Super Eagles reach the final.
Nigeria’s AFCON Profile & Strength
Nigeria remain one of Africa’s most decorated national teams:
AFCON titles: 1980, 1994, 2013
Runners-up: 5 times, most recently in 2023
World Cup appearances: 6
The top ten Nations with the most African Cup of Nations points
‘Wants Alonso fired’ – Real Madrid fans continue to take aim at one player vs Alavés
Supporters of La Liga giants Real Madrid have on Sunday made clear once more their collective frustration with a specific member of the club’s backline.
The player in question? Antonio Rüdiger.
Stopper Rüdiger was for his part in from the off for the latest occasion this evening.
Amid the ongoing injury crisis in Xabi Alonso’s backline, the German was entrusted as a starter for Real Madrid’s league meeting with Deportivo Alavés.
During the 2nd-half, however, Rüdiger was caught badly behind the rest of his defensive line, allowing the hosts to break the offside trap before levelling things up at a goal apiece.
As much came fresh off another concerning performance on the part of the former Chelsea man in midweek against Manchester City.
With such disappointing form beginning to pile up, the Real Madrid faithful have in turn taken firm aim at Rüdiger across social media and beyond late on Sunday:
Rudiger really wants Xabi Alonso fired! You cant tell me otherwise!
Bianconeri return from Bologna with three big points
The Juventus Men's First Team picked up three important points on Serie A Matchday 15, going away to Bologna and returning home with a clean sheet and a 1-0 win thanks to Juan Cabal's second-half header.
THE MATCH REPORT
It was Michele Di Gregorio who was called into action first. With about five minutes on the clock he reacted well to make a double save, with the second of those keeping Riccardo Orsolini out. A few moments later he was again alert to deny Nicolo Cambiaghi.
Kenan Yildiz was the first in bianconero to go close, but Federico Ravaglia denied his effort.
With the game opening up as the half approached its midway point, Orsolini continued to try to trouble Di Gregorio, having an effort from range not only stopped but caught at full-stretch.
The Bianconeri looked to have got themselves in front after the half-hour mark after Weston McKennie selflessly teed up Jonathan David, but the American had been offside in the build-up and so the goal was ruled out.
On the stroke of half-time, Orsolini put Nadir Zortea through and his shot from a tight angle hit the crossbar.
After the break, the Bianconeri looked to get at their hosts from the off. Francisco Conceicao, hoping to mark his birthday with a goal, started the half by firing a shot just over the crossbar from outside the box.
On the hour mark, Andrea Cambiaso looked to force Ravaglia into action but, like Conceicao earlier, sent his effort over. Luciano Spalletti then looked to shake things up with a couple of changes, taking Cambiaso and David off for Lois Openda and Juan Cabal, and both announced their arrivals in style.
Openda immediately got involved in the attack, linking up with Yildiz to tee up the no.10 for a fierce effort that flew just by the post. From the resulting corner, Cabal found himself unmarked in the box and headed home the opening goal from close range.
The Belgian’s arrival continued to be felt by Bologna, and he got in behind their backline before being fouled by Torbjorn Heggem, who was sent off for denying a clear goal-scoring opportunity.
With the hosts down to ten, their threat lessened significantly, and substitute Federico Bernardeschi came closest with a tame shot straight at Di Gregorio.
There was still time for more good news though, with Gleison Bremer making his return to action to replace Teun Koopmeiners.
The result could have been sealed in the 90th minute when Yildiz went in on goal, but he was crowded out and had his shot blocked. Moments later, Openda forced a fine save out of Ravaglia.
Without any more goals, the clean sheet was secured and the points were wrapped up.
There's a lot of question marks over the future of Mohamed Salah right now. It feels like a matter of when not if he will leave Liverpool.
In fact given everything that has transpired over the last week or so, you wouldn't rule out a January transfer for the Egyptian.
But then the question becomes, who can replace him? Someone of his ilk and calibre is irreplaceable.
There will be no player who could come in and replicate his output. However, there could be a player who comes in and makes Liverpool a more balanced team.
Ask yourself what Liverpool are lacking right now?
Pace, players who can thrive in one vs one situations and high-intensity pressing.
There's one player who comes to mind who ticks all of those boxes and he showed it against Liverpool.
The Reds won 2-0 against Brighton on Saturday, but even during defeat, Yankuba Minteh was his side's best player. His constant running was always a threat on Liverpool's left flank.
Minteh completed the most dribbles (4) on the pitch, and he also created one of Brighton's best chances, sending a perfect through ball that sliced through Liverpool's defence and which Diego Gomez should have most definitely scored.
He was so good at breaking into Liverpool's penalty area and causing problems. If Brighton looked like they were going to score it was all coming through Minteh.
The speed, the intensity that he has, it's exactly what Liverpool need. Sure he needs to work on his output but he's already an impressive creator.
And when you have Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike, you probably would rather have your wide player create chances for them.
It's why Minteh makes the perfect sense, and it's why he confirmed on Saturday that he is ready to replace Salah at Anfield.
Serie A | Bologna 0-1 Juventus: Cabal conquers the Dall’Ara for climb to fifth
Juan Cabal came off the bench to snatch all three points for Juventus against 10 men, continuing the dire Bologna record in this fixture, and leapfrogging them into fifth place.
This was a direct battle for position, as the Rossoblu were two points ahead in the table. Juve lost last week to Napoli, but boosted their Champions League chances in a midweek win over Pafos. Daniele Rugani and Gleison Bremer were back on the bench, but Dusan Vlahovic, Federico Gatti, Arek Milik and Carlo Pinsiglio were still out. Bologna’s Serie A form stalled with defeat to Cremonese and a draw against 10-man Lazio, but on Thursday they won 2-1 away to Celta Vigo in the Europa League. Nicolò Casale joined Martin Vitik, Remo Freuler and Lukasz Skorupski on the treatment table.
Incredibly, Juve were unbeaten at the Dall’Ara since November 1998 and hadn’t lost to Bologna at all since a 2-0 result in February 2011.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, greets Vincenzo Italiano, Head Coach of Bologna, prior to the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Juventus FC at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
There was an early double Michele Di Gregorio save, first on Tommaso Pobega’s acrobatic flick from a free kick, then the Riccardo Orsolini follow-up at the back post.
Orsolini’s trademark curler was smothered and Teun Koopmeiners was booked so will be suspended next week against Roma, but David overhit the through ball to Kenan Yildiz after pouncing on a Lewis Ferguson error.
Weston McKennie only grazed his head to the Andrea Cambiaso cross, while David had penalty appeals waved away for going down too easily under a Jhon Lucumi nudge.
Juventus had the ball in the net on 36 minutes when David flicked on a long ball for McKennie, who won the ricochet off on-rushing Ravaglia and generously rolled across for the Canadian to deposit into an empty net. However, McKennie was offside on the initial flick.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Jonathan David of Juventus is challenged by Torbjorn Heggem of Bologna during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Juventus FC at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
Juve kept coming close, but not close enough, as Ravaglia rushed out when Kenan Yildiz found Conceicao with a smart pass, then Lucumi made the crucial interception as Khephren Thuram tried to set up the Portuguese talent.
Yet Bologna had a huge chance on the stroke of half-time, as Orsolini’s inspired disguised pass released Nadir Zortea to thump his finish against the underside of the bar from a tight angle with Di Gregorio just getting his fingertips to it.
Bologna had rather hopeful penalty appeals, but Manuel Locatelli’s hands were clamped behind his back when blocking the Cambiaghi cross.
Juventus finally found a breakthrough when Kenan Yildiz saw his control and strike deflected inches over by Heggem. The resulting corner was taken short for a Kenan Yildiz cross that found substitute Juan Cabal for a totally free header from six yards.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Juan Cabal of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and Juventus FC at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The situation went from bad to worse for the hosts, as soon after Heggem got caught out by a long Di Gregorio ball and bundled Lois Openda over outside the area for a straight red card.
There was more good news for Juventus, as Gleison Bremer made his comeback for the final 15 minutes, the first appearance since the meniscus injury on September 27.
Conceicao had penalty appeals rejected after running into Lucumi’s arm, infuriating the defender, while Federico Bernardeschi’s effort failed to trouble Di Gregorio.
Ravaglia kept the scoreline down with a great one-handed save on Openda’s daisy-cutter from 12 yards on the Cabal lay-off, then Openda fired another promising opportunity over in stoppages.
It is the second consecutive Serie A home defeat for Bologna after the 3-1 with Cremonese.
WATCH: Rodrygo puts Real Madrid back in front against Alaves
Real Madrid need to defeat Alaves in order to keep pace with Barcelona, and they have now retaken the lead at Mendizorroza.
Kylian Mbappe returned to the starting line-up after missing out against Manchester City in midweek, and he is the one that opened the scoring. He collected a pass from Jude Bellingham before cutting inside from the left and picking out the top corner of Antonio Sivera’s net.
Despite leading, Real Madrid had not looked convincing at all, and Alaves drew themselves level in the second half. Carlos Vicente, who had only just come on, brought the ball down brilliantly before firing beyond Thibaut Courtois – he was given offside initially, but VAR confirmed he was level with Antonio Rudiger.
But fortunately for Real Madrid, they have gone back in front, and it is goals in back-to-back matches for Rodrygo Goes. Vinicius Junior did brilliantly to drive into the box, and his cutback was turned home by his compatriot.
Rodrygo with a huge goal! 🇧🇷
The Brazilian ends his drought in LALIGA and restores Real Madrid's lead ⚪
Sunderland took the Tyne-Wear derby rivalry to unprecedented levels of pettiness on Sunday, refusing to display Newcastle’s name on the Stadium of Light scoreboard during their 1-0 victory.
The Black Cats secured bragging rights on the pitch thanks to a bizarre Nick Woltemade own goal, but it was the club’s off-pitch antics that sparked a frenzy on social media.
In a move widely celebrated by the home faithful, Sunderland broke with Premier League protocol to deliver a calculated insult to their bitter rivals Newcastle.
Sunderland refuse to name Newcastle on stadium scoreboard
Fans inside the stadium and viewers at home were quick to spot the deliberate omission.
While every other away side at the Stadium of Light this season has been afforded the courtesy of having their full club name displayed, Newcastle were reduced to a single generic word: “Visitors.”
The digital scoreboard read ‘Sunderland 1 – 0 Visitors’ for the duration of the match.
Sunderland snub Newcastle name and crest from scoreboard at Stadium of Lights (Screenshot/ NBC Sports Soccer)
The decision was no accident. Reports confirmed that previous opponents had their names and crests fully visible, making this a specific, sanctioned dig at the Magpies.
It set the tone for a hostile atmosphere where Regis Le Bris’s side ultimately stifled Eddie Howe’s men to claim a vital three points.
Sunderland take long-awaited revenge
This top-tier pettiness was widely interpreted as long-awaited revenge for the January 2024 FA Cup debacle.
On that occasion, Sunderland’s ownership faced a mutiny after allowing the ‘Black Cats Bar’ to be redecorated with Newcastle slogans to welcome corporate hospitality guests.
Sunday was the payback. Not only did they erase Newcastle’s identity from the screens, but the Sunderland squad also twisted the knife after the final whistle.
Sunderland returned the favour, taking a team photo in front of their fans on the pitch after a 1-0 win over Newcastle ?
Replicating the infamous team photo celebration that Newcastle assistant Jason Tindall orchestrated on the Stadium of Light turf two years ago, the Sunderland players and staff gathered in front of the South Stand to recreate the exact pose, mocking their neighbours in the most direct way possible.
Newcastle United sold Elliot Anderson to Nottingham Forest, and he has been linked with a return in recent months.
Ross Wilson was the director for Nottingham Forest when they signed the player from Newcastle, and Wilson is now the sporting director at Newcastle.
Newcastle keen on Elliot Anderson return
Manager Eddie Howe has always been vocal about his admiration for Anderson, and he has previously admitted that he would love to have the player back at the club. Naturally, that has fuelled speculations surrounding the midfielder’s potential return to his former club.
Ross Wilson was recently asked whether he would make a move for the Nottingham Forest midfielder in future. Wilson has added fuel to the fire by claiming that he likes the player a lot. It will be interesting to see if Newcastle decide to make a move for him at the end of the season.
Nottingham Forest central midfielder Elliot Anderson (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
Anderson has been excellent for Nottingham Forest, and he is certainly one of the finest young midfield talents in the Premier League right now. Bringing him back to the club would be a wise decision for Newcastle. However, they will have to pay a lot of money to get the deal done. Nottingham Forest will not want to lose a player like him easily. Also, multiple big clubs are monitoring his development, and there is likely to be intense competition for his signature.
The midfielder might prefer to join a big club where he will be able to fight for titles and compete in the UEFA Champions League regularly. Newcastle have an ambitious project and a talented squad. However, they are not quite at the level to compete with the elite clubs yet. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.
They are one of the wealthiest clubs in the world, and they have the finances to get the deal across the line. They already have quality midfielders like Bruno Guimarães, Sandro Tonali, and Joelinton. Adding Anderson could take them to a whole new level.
The 30-year-old has shown his quality in the Championship with clubs like Leeds United, Blackburn Rovers, Blackpool, and Southampton. There is no doubt that he could be a very useful player for Sheffield United. Wilder needs more quality in the middle of the park, and the 30-year-old has the quality and the experience to help them improve. His leadership skills could also be invaluable for the Blades.
Joe Rothwell of Rangers is seen during the Premier League match vs Falkirk. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Rothwell will look to get his career back on track with regular opportunities. He has the quality and the experience to make an instant impact in the Championship, and it remains to be seen whether he can establish himself as a key player for Sheffield United. Rangers are unlikely to stand in his way in January. He has been an underperformer for them, and they will look to get rid of the player and bring in an upgrade.
It will be interesting to see if the 30-year-old can hold down a regular starting spot at Sheffield United during the second half of the season.
He will add control, composure, and set-piece ability to the team. He was excellent for Leeds United when they secured promotion to the Premier League, and he could prove to be a very useful acquisition for Sheffield United as well.
With the 2025 AFCON fast approaching, the Nigerian national team is playing a final warm-up match against Egypt, a friendly encounter packed with tactical insights ahead of the continental tournament kickoff.
AFCON: Uzoho arrives as Super Eagles open camp in Egypt
The Super Eagles of Nigeria have opened their training camp in Egypt ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, with goalkeeper Francis Uzoho arriving first.
According to multiple Nigerian media outlets, the Super Eagles will approach this clash with a largely experimental lineup, as several key players have opted to skip the fixture. Notably absent are Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen and Paris FC winger Moses Simon.
The same sources report that Osimhen and Simon will join the Nigerian squad directly in Morocco after the match against Egypt.
The Nigerian coaching staff is expected to use this encounter to give playing time to fresh faces, while relying on a few regulars to maintain team balance. Wilfred Ndidi is set to anchor the midfield, alongside goalkeepers Francis Uzoho and Stanley Nwabali.
Kickoff for the Egypt–Nigeria match is scheduled for Tuesday, December 16 at 18:00 GMT at the Cairo International Stadium, serving as a crucial test for both teams ahead of AFCON 2025.
Barcelona losing faith in attacking transfer target
The brass at La Liga giants Barcelona are growing increasingly doubtful of moving ahead with a proposal for Juventus star Dušan Vlahović.
This comes with the Blaugrana having been left unimpressed by the Serbian’s production across the season to date.
Frontman Vlahović is for his part sidelined at present, owing to a serious muscular injury.
Prior to as much, though, the former Fiorentina man had found the net a modest six times in 17 appearances across all competitions.
Vlahović had previously been tipped as one of the leading contenders to replace the outbound Robert Lewandowski in Hansi Flick’s Barcelona frontline next season.
This comes with the 25-year-old’s Juventus contract terms set to expire in the summer of 2026.
‘Barcelona have followed Vlahović as an option for the striker. Bojan was directly following his evolutions, but expectations are not being met this season.’
1-1 – Borussia lose a man and lose control, but still come away with a point
In an intense, exciting encounter, BVB deservedly took the lead after half an hour through Ramy Bensebaini after Carney Chukwuemeka had hit the post ten minutes earlier. But the Baden-based side, who primarily looked to hit their guests on the counterattack, created chances in the first half – and they found themselves with a numerical advantage in just the 53rd minute because Jobe Bellingham was given a red card.
The scenario:
Over the past six matchdays, only Bayern Munich (16) had collected more points than Borussia Dortmund (14), while Freiburg had picked up eleven of their 16 points this season in their own stadium. BVB had won the last seven meetings between the sides..
Personnel matters:
For the first time this season, the team was missing four players: Aaron Anselmino, Waldemar Anton, Julian Brandt and Marcel Sabitzer were all unavailable. Maximilian Beier returned to the bench. Emre Can, Julian Ryerson, Carney Chukwuemeka and Serhou Guirassy joined the team.
Tactics: As in the Champions League, BVB started with two strikers (Fabio Silva alongside Guirassy) and a number 10, with Chukwuemeka primarily operating from the inside-left. In the four-strong midfield line behind them, Ryerson moved to the left side. Freiburg also met Dortmund's 3-4-1-2 with a back three or back five. Both attacked high and the two sides gave each other hardly any air to breathe in the first 30 minutes. Ginter was always close to Guirassy, Jung moved out of the back line when Fabio Silva dropped deep, which the Dortmund player often did, receiving balls in the middle of the park. Borussia came forward mainly down the right wing, via the agile Couto.
The match & analysis:From the very first minute on, the match was played at a high intensity. After just ten minutes, Couto and Manzambi saw yellow cards for a tussle on the touchline. There were also fiery scenes on the pitch: Guirassy headed a well-timed Fabio Silva cross just past the left post in the 9th minute, and shortly afterwards, Manzambi beat Can around the left hand corner of the six yard box, but he did not get enough behind his shot, meaning that Kobel could easily stop it on 9 minutes.
Borussia Dortmund had enjoyed 66 percent of the possession in the first 20 minutes – and also carved out the first big chance. After a one-two with Guirassy, Chukwuemeka took aim from an acute angle, but his shot hit the side netting in the 21st minute. Shortly afterwards, Can earned the chance to open the scoring as a result of some high pressing, which caused Freiburg to lose the ball in their half, but his shot from 17 metres was not accurate or powerful enough on 24 minutes. After exactly half an hour, the Black & Yellows were rewarded for their courageous performance: Couto struck a free kick from the right side into the box, Bensebaini chested the ball down and prodded it over the line to make it 1-0 in the 31st minute. Even though BVB was clearly in the driver’s seat, Freiburg consistently looked dangerous on the counter, and shortly before the break, Günter had his side’s third and best chance to score an equaliser, but the hosts’ captain fired horribly wide in the 45th minute.
Eight minutes after the restart, Jobe Bellingham saw a red card. After a risky pass from Kobel, the Englishman tried to put his body in the way 19 metres out in front of his own goal, but caught Treu, who was bursting forward at pace, and was given his marching orders by referee Zwayer for preventing a clear goalscoring opportunity. It was Bellingham’s first foul in the game. Günter fired the resulting free kick just past the left-hand post.
BVB responded to going a man down by bringing on Pascal Groß for Fabio Silva, and had hardly any extended periods of possession thereafter. The match took place almost entirely in the Dortmund half. Kobel brilliantly tipped a follow-up shot from Treu around the post in the 69th minute, and also showed strong reactions to save Suzuki’s shot, which had taken a wicked deflection off Bensebaini, in the 74th minute. But 60 seconds later, Freiburg were celebrating the equaliser Höler did well to get on the end of Günter’s cross and finished brilliantly, finding the far post. Freiburg had 11 shots to BVB’s 0 after the red card and thought they'd made it 2-1, but Matanovic’s goal did not count as he was ruled offside on 86 minutes.
Outlook:
In the last game of 2025, Borussia Dortmund will face Borussia Mönchengladbach on Friday (kick-off: 20:30 CET). They will continue in the new year on 9 January in Frankfurt. Both games can be seen live not only on Sky, but also on Sat.1 [Germany].Boris Rupert
Teams & goals
Football Bundesliga, Matchday 14Sunday, 14 December 2025, 15:30 CET
Sebastian Kehl (in the mixed zone): “At 11 vs 11, we had a lot of control over the game, and I’m convinced that we would have won with eleven players. The red card in the 53rd minute was a game changer, and after that, it was a different game. And Freiburg earned the point in the end. Of course, you should try to have a little more ball control even when you’re down a man, to provide relief, making the ball stick up front. But it was not an easy game. Freiburg built up a lot of pressure, making life difficult for us with plenty of crosses and a busy penalty area. We should not have put ourselves in that situation. I think we could have made it a different game. There are a lot of things you could be done better in that incident. So it was just one big chain of events.”
Niko Kovac (on DAZN): “We played a full half with ten men. So you have to live with a 1-1 draw in Freiburg – they’re a good team. Of course, we are not satisfied with the result. But if you look at how it came about, I have to live with it – and I can! We made life difficult for ourselves with the sending off. That’s football: when you’re making decisions, you also make mistakes. It cost us the game. We controlled the game in the first half, were very solid, did not allow them anything much. When you’re a man down, it’s difficult to play football.”
Gregor Kobel (on DAZN): “If the red card doesn’t happen, the game looks different. We hadn’t allowed them much until then, we had control of the game and were very dominant. It was certainly a misunderstanding (the situation that led to the red card [ed.]). I initially felt that he had a lot of space. At the end of the day, I have to play a better pass so that he doesn’t commit this foul. I’ll take the blame for that one. We were really under pressure after that. Then Höler scores a crazy goal. The way the game went, you have to be satisfied with the 1-1.”
Yan Couto (in the mixed zone): “We came here to win this game because it was like a mini final for second place. In the first half, we played well. We have to try to score more goals and put the game to bed early. It was difficult after the red card.”Transcribed by Boris Rupert
Match facts: Bensebaini does not only score in the Champions League…
Draw: BVB have gone undefeated for seven Bundesliga matches, but have shared the points in three of those seven games. Overall, no team has more draws than BVB (five) this season.
Streak broken: After seven successive wins against Freiburg, BVB failed to take all three points against their opponents for the first time since August 2021.
Sending off: Jobe Bellingham saw a red card for his first foul in the match, preventing a clear goalscoring opportunity.
Guaranteed success: BVB have not yet lost this Bundesliga season with Ramy Bensebaini in the starting line-up (six wins, two draws). The defender even scored a goal to keep that run going. It was only his second Bundesliga goal in his 59th appearance in a BVB shirt. His first came more than a year ago in October 2024, at home to St. Pauli. In between those two league goals, however, Bensebaini has scored four times in the Champions League!
Three Things We Learned From Parma vs Lazio: Aquile Fly Above Evil
Even in the bleakest of campaigns, football still has a habit of delivering moments so striking that you remember exactly where you were, eyes fixed in disbelief, as they would watch unfold.
For Lazio fanatics, this moment ensued on Saturday, when the nine remaining men on the pitch looked almost oblivious to great numerical disadvantage they were put against, as they went on to score a late winner against Parma, in front of the shell-shocked home crowd at the Ennio Tardini.
Needless to say, the epic scenes we witnessed this weekend left us with a flurry of talking points, but in this piece, we’ll focus on the following three.
Lazio Dispel Evil Spirits Through Sheer Force
For the third weekend in a row, Lazio felt hard done by the officiating. This time, Mattia Zaccagni was sent off for a high-studs challenge, while Toma Basic followed suit due to what was deemed to be violent conduct in an off-the-ball incident. Nevertheless, many would argue that yellow cards would be sufficient in both cases.
Whether you wish to blame the poor officiating, the reckless decisions, or simply bad luck, it almost feels as if Claudio Lotito may have a point by suggesting that the club is somewhat ‘cursed’. The Biancocelesti patron even brought a priest to Formello to bless the facility and its inhabitants with holy water.
Watch: Noslin Stuns the Tardini as 9-Man Lazio Prevail Over Parma – The Highlights
But with all due respect to sacred rituals, Lazio were never going to overcome these ‘evil spirits’ through prayers alone, but by punching them straight in the face. And while the technical qualities of the current team pale in comparison to its predecessors, Maurizio Sarri’s men certainly don’t lack the courage, nor the madness.
In fact, this is a side that is growing in confidence and self-belief with every fresh outing, using their misfortunes to fuel their motivation and desire to defy all odds.
So while the hierarchy has given the fans very few reasons to celebrate in the past few years, the Laziali can at least be proud of the brave men donning the famous Biancocelesti colors.
Luca Pellegrini Deserves More Credit
Speaking of courageous Laziali, here’s one who hardly receives his dues.
Luca Pellegrini’s importance to the cause has been put to the test in the last two contests. Last weekend, his presence was heavily felt as Nuno Tavares had another shocker at the back. On Saturday, he made important contributions in both phases of the game for 90+ minutes, helping Lazio clinch their most memorable win of the season thus far.
Needless to say, the Italian is not a top-class full-back by any means, but he’s mostly been a reliable presence on the left flank, and at the age of 26, his best years have yet to come.
Sarri Wasted Tijjani Noslin for Two Months
While many strikers would have given up on Danilo Cataldi’s pass ball, which was a bit too long, Tijjani Noslin decided to give chase, and his reward was scoring a goal that will cement him as an idol for the Aquile. This isn’t the first time that the Dutchman has revived lost causes; he had already done so in the final minute against Torino when he won a spot-kick later converted by Cataldi.
Since his arrival in the Italian capital, the 26-year-old has been associated with his former Hellas Verona coach Marco Baroni, who is said to be interested in another reunion at Torino.
Player Ratings: Parma 0-1 Lazio – Noslin Pulls off Historic Cameo
But despite being a member of the ‘old regime’, despite starting every single contest on the bench, and despite being told by his manager that he doesn’t have a defined role for him in the squad, Noslin has been a man on a mission every time he took the field.
The versatile attacker is finally beginning to endear himself to Sarri, who has now identified him as Taty Castellanos’ first understudy instead of Boulaye Dia, who has only ever looked useful in a Lazio shirt when playing behind the Argentine rather than leading the line himself.
However, it’s a shame that Sarri didn’t give more space to Noslin while Castellanos was out of action for two months, insisting on fielding Dia on every occasion, despite posing little to no threat to the opposition in the final third.
Germany Defender ‘Not Thinking About World Cup’ After Another Impressive Display For Inter Milan In 2-1 Win Against Genoa
Yann Bisseck continued his impressive run for Inter Milan with a decisive contribution in the 2-1 Serie A victory away to Genoa.
The German opened the scoring at the Stadio Ferraris and once again underlined his growing importance in Cristian Chivu’s side.
The German defender struck with his left foot to give Inter an early advantage in a match that proved tense and physically demanding until the final whistle.
It was a goal that set the tone for a contest in which the Nerazzurri were forced to dig deep, showing resilience as well as quality to secure all three points.
“This season I’ve had the chance to shoot with my left foot, it already happened against Liverpool,” he explained.
“Today it worked. I’m very happy, especially because of the win. We suffered a bit, but sometimes you have to win like this.”
Genoa 1-2 Inter – Bisseck Focused On Inter Amid World Cup Talk
MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 23: Yann Aurel Bisseck of FC Internazionale looks on, during the warm up prior to the coppa Italia Semi Final match between FC Internazionale and AC Milan at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on April 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
He also addressed growing speculation about his chances of earning a place with Germany ahead of the 2026 World Cup, but was quick to shift the focus back to collective objectives.
“I hope so, but I’m not thinking about this,” Bisseck said. “I want to help the team, today it went well. I’m happy.”
Bisseck echoed those sentiments when speaking to DAZN at full time, once again highlighting the difficulty of the task Inter faced in Genoa.
“Not all matches are simple, we knew it would be difficult to play in this stadium,” he said. “We did well, despite the suffering.”
On his growing attacking contribution from defence, the former Köln player was clear about his mindset.
“Finally,” he added with a smile. “I always want to attack and help the team score. The most important thing is that we won.”
His performance was emblematic of Inter’s approach on the night: compact, committed and willing to endure pressure when required.
With injuries forcing adjustments across the back line, Bisseck’s physical presence, composure and willingness to step up in key moments proved invaluable.
As Inter continue to balance domestic ambitions with a congested schedule, Bisseck’s development offers Chivu an increasingly reliable option at the heart of defence.
For now, individual accolades and international ambitions remain secondary.
As the defender himself made clear, the priority is simple: helping Inter win.
Inter Milan Captain & Argentina Megastar Delighted After Scoring In Narrow 2-1 Win At Genoa
Lautaro Martinez was the standout figure as Inter Milan secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory away to Genoa, with the Nerazzurri captain earning the Panini Player of the Match award after finding the net at a crucial moment at the Stadio Ferraris.
In a match that demanded patience, intensity and leadership, Lautaro once again led by example.
His goal was a moment of quality that helped Inter establish control before a nervy finale.
It proved decisive in a contest that was far from straightforward for Cristian Chivu’s side.
Speaking to Sky Sport immediately after the final whistle, the Argentine striker underlined how important it is for him to contribute on the scoresheet, especially in a demanding phase of the season.
Genoa 1-2 Inter Milan – Lautaro Delighted To Get On Scoresheet
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 30: Lautaro Martinez of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring their team’s first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match between FC Internazionale Milano and SK Slavia Praha at Stadio San Siro on September 30, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“For me, scoring goals and helping the team is important,” Lautaro said. “I always try to help the team, and when goals like this come, I’m always happy.”
The win at Marassi carried added significance given the context.
Inter arrived in Genoa looking to respond after a disappointing Champions League setback in the defeat to Liverpool.
Lautaro’s strike not only rewarded Inter’s positive approach, but also helped settle the team during a match that remained open until the closing stages.
Beyond the goal itself, the captain’s performance embodied the mentality Chivu has repeatedly demanded from his players.
Lautaro pressed relentlessly, linked play effectively and showed composure in key moments, offering a reference point for his younger teammates in a challenging away environment.
Attention now quickly turns to the Supercoppa, with Inter preparing for another high-stakes test in the coming days.
Lautaro acknowledged the momentum that goals can bring ahead of such occasions, even as he kept the focus firmly on collective objectives rather than personal milestones.
His display in Genoa served as another reminder of his importance to this Inter side.
Indeed not only as a prolific scorer.
However, also as a leader capable of lifting the team when margins are fine and pressure is high.
With decisive fixtures on the horizon, Inter will once again look to their captain to set the tone.
This is a face-off for European places, because the Rossoblu are currently two points above the Old Lady in the table and would like to take advantage of a general slowdown in the top spots this weekend.
“We have for over two years been doing very well, so the lads and all of us know that we can have our say,” Di Vaio told DAZN Italia.
“Every game is different, Juve have great players, but we are well aware that we’re competitive and can play our game too.”
Bologna history against Juventus is astonishing
epa12073982 Bologna’s Remo Freuler (2-L) scores the 1-1 goal during the Italian Serie A soccer match Bologna FC vs Juventus FC at Renato Dall’Ara stadium in Bologna, Italy, 04 May 2025. EPA-EFE/ELISABETTA BARACCHI
An extraordinary statistic is that Bologna have not beaten Juventus in all competition since February 2011, a 2-0 result in Turin decided by a Di Vaio brace.
They haven’t defeated Juve at the Stadio Dall’Ara since a 3-0 result in November 1998.
“I was just telling my daughter in the car on the way here that I am so tired of being told that I was the last Bologna player to score a winner against Juventus,” confessed Di Vaio.
“I look forward to someone else taking my place in that statistic, because it’s been too long. We had great results in recent years beating just about all the big clubs, but not Juventus yet.”
BOLOGNA, ITALY – MAY 04: Khephren Thuram of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammates during the Serie A match between Bologna and Juventus at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on May 04, 2025 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The team slowed down in Serie A recently, with a defeat to Cremonese and draw against 10-man Lazio, but boosted morale with Thursday’s comeback victory away to Celta Vigo in the Europa League.
Federico Bernardeschi scored twice in Spain and he represents a different kind of player to the young and promising prospects that Bologna had focused on before.
“Last season we were in the Champions League and realised we were lacking something in terms of experience at that level, so we approached both Federico and Ciro Immobile too, making the most of their situations to bring them here.
“Having players who starred and won at the highest level was something we had been lacking, as that influences the others,” explained Di Vaio.
Player ratings: Genoa 1-2 Inter – Lautaro talismanic
Inter once again have Lautaro Martinez to thank for a 2-1 victory away against Genoa in Serie A on Sunday evening, a result which has sent the Nerazzurri to the top of the league table.
Check out the player ratings below!
A surprise goal from centre-back Yann Bisseck and a second from captain Lautaro 10 minutes before the end of the first half were enough for Inter to cling onto despite Vitinha pulling one back for Genoa midway through the second half.
GENOA, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Lautaro Martinez of Inter (left) scores a goal during the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and FC Internazionale at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
Best Genoa player: Vitinha 6.5 – Provided the moment of quality that gave the Genoa supporters a brief moment of joy and the belief that they might get something more out of the game in the second half. He had so much work to do to create that goal for himself as well.
Coach: Daniele De Rossi 6 – It was always going to be a difficult test against Inter, but Genoa weren’t really up to the task aside from their decent opening spell. Another tricky test against Atalanta now awaits them.
GENOA, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Daniele De Rossi, head coach of Genoa (R), greets Cristian Chivu, head coach of Inter, prior to kick-off in the Serie A match between Genoa CFC and FC Internazionale at Luigi Ferraris Stadium on December 14, 2025 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
Best Inter player: Lautaro Martinez 7.5 – A goal, an assist and four shots on target from the Nerazzurri talisman this afternoon. His seventh in Serie A so far this season, the most in the division, and 11 goals including his four in the Champions League. Realistically, the game should have been out of reach for Genoa after his strike went in for 2-0 after 38 minutes.
Coach: Cristian Chivu 7.5 – It’s been a relentless schedule for the Nerazzurri in recent weeks, and on a weekend where others have tripped up, Chivu got his selections right on Sunday, and is now sitting alone at the top of the Serie A table as a result. Arguably Inter’s most important victory of the season thus far.
Chiellini reassuring to Juventus: ‘Agnelli family, Thuram and Yildiz going nowhere’
Juventus director Giorgio Chiellini reassures the Agnelli family and the club are ‘one and the same,’ while Khephren Thuram and Kenan Yildiz are going nowhere.
The trip to Bologna kicks off at the Stadio Dall’Ara at 19.45 GMT.
The Bianconeri went into the weekend in seventh place and sitting two points behind Bologna, so this is a crucial head-to-head for European spots.
Chiellini speaks out on Juventus headline issues
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – JULY 13: Giorgio Chiellini attends the Gold Carpet during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Final match between Chelsea FC and Paris Saint-Germain at MetLife Stadium on July 13, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images)
There have been reports that Juventus could swap Khephren Thuram with Inter midfielder Davide Frattesi in the January transfer market.
“I won’t talk about Frattesi, as that’s a lack of respect towards Inter. What I can say without doubt is that Thuram will remain a Juventus player. He has done really well in the year and a half he’s been with us and we have no intention of letting him go,” Chiellini told DAZN Italia.
The big news this week was that cryptocurrency firm Tether, who are already minority shareholders, launched a shock takeover bid to purchase all the remaining shares from the Agnelli family holding company Exor.
SPA, BELGIUM – JULY 28: John Elkann, Chairman and CEO of Ferrari looks on, on the grid prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Belgium at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps on July 28, 2024 in Spa, Belgium. (Photo by Mark Thompson/Getty Images)
“They were important words, strong words, but for those who know the atmosphere, they were not surprising. When we think of the Agnelli family, we think of Juventus, and vice versa. They are one and the same. That’s how it has always been and that’s how it will be in future,” added Chiellini.
“So there’s nothing more to say other than we will build Juve back to the strength they had in the past and will again in the future. There are values at Juventus that get passed from generation to generation, but we also look to the future.
“It has unfortunately been five years since we last won the Scudetto, we feel the responsibility of that, but it takes nothing away from our confidence going into the future. Above all, the owners and Juventus are a single insoluble entity.”
FLORENCE, ITALY – NOVEMBER 22: Kenan Yildiz of Juventus FC in action during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Juventus FC at Artemio Franchi on November 22, 2025 in Florence, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
If the club had been sold, would Chiellini still have been dealing with negotiations for the new Kenan Yildiz contract?
“I haven’t the foggiest idea, but that’s not an issue I will need to think about! Kenan is an important player, he has a long contract, it’s not a situation that gets sorted out in a week. The important thing is that we both want to carry on together, his contract doesn’t expire in six months, so there’s no rush, but we want to improve the contract so it is suited to his status.”
Juve got back on track in the Champions League midweek with a 2-0 victory over Pafos, a much-needed result after last week’s Serie A loss to Napoli.
Leeds United are expected to complete a deal for the Liverpool academy graduate, Kai Morrall.
Morrall has been at Liverpool for eight seasons, and he is highly rated within the club. The young winger is now set to leave the club and join the Leeds United youth setup.
Kai Morrall heading to Leeds
The Northern Ireland youth international has confirmed the move on his Instagram account, and he will look to continue his development at Leeds now.
Leeds are a big club with a rich history when it comes to grooming young players. It will be interesting to see if the 15-year-old can fulfil his potential with them. There is no doubt that he is a talented player with a bright future. He is not ready to make his mark in the Premier League yet, and he will look to continue his development with regular opportunities at the youth level.
However, there is no doubt that he has the potential to develop into an important first-team player for Leeds United.
Leeds have done well to add to the formidable pool of young talent already at the club in recent windows. The arrival of the Liverpool attacker will be another feather in their cap. It remains to be seen whether they can groom him properly and help him fulfil his potential.
He could prove to be a solid acquisition for the club in future, and it remains to be seen whether Liverpool will regret his departure.
Meanwhile, Leeds United are currently fighting for their survival in the Premier League. They have had a mixed start to the season so far, and they will need to start picking up points if they want to survive in the top flight. They are a big club, and they should be competing in the Premier League regularly.
It seems that the player has taken a swipe at the Championship outfit once again. In a recent interview, the midfielder explained that Leicester City made it very difficult for him to leave in the summer, and the resistance from the club was baffling because he had a release clause in his contract.
“We reached an agreement with Stuttgart. They were always there,” he added (h/t SportWitness).
“And I’m satisfied, even though, to be honest, it wasn’t easy this summer. It was difficult to find a way out of Leicester; they didn’t make it easy for me. What I especially didn’t understand was why it didn’t work out despite my release clause.”
Bilal El Khannouss in action for Leicester CIty (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
His comments will not go down well with the Leicester City fans. It is clear that he is not happy with the way his move was handled during the summer transfer window. However, he should have been more professional in his reaction towards the club.
Even though he does not want to play for them again and wants to compete at a higher level, Leicester City played a key role in his development. They gave him valuable experience in the Premier League, and the fans would have expected more respect from the player towards the club.
It will be interesting to see if he can sort out his long-term future and focus on his football. There is no doubt that he is a talented player with a bright future, and he deserves to compete at a high level.
Liverpool have reportedly taken a major step in their pursuit of Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo, with the club officially opening talks regarding the forward’s payment structure.
The development marks a significant acceleration in the Reds’ transfer plans as they look to bolster their attack.
According to the latest reports, the decision has already been communicated to Mohamed Salah during recent peace talks, signaling a transparent approach from the club regarding their future attacking hierarchy.
Liverpool officially open talks with Bournemouth
Breaking the news on X, a trusted transfer insider revealed that the Reds have officially began talks with the Cherries to sign Semenyo, with the discussions centred around the payment structure for the player.
He also claimed that Salah has been informed of the club’s intention to sign Semenyo who can play on either side of the wing.
“Exclusive: Liverpool have officially opened talks with Bournemouth regarding Antoine Semenyo’s payment structure.
Mo Salah was informed during the peace talks that the club’s plan is to sign a winger who can play on both sides. Big news.”
Exclusive ?
Liverpool have officially opened talks with Bournemouth regarding Antoine Semenyo's payment structure.
Mo Salah was informed during the peace talks that the club's plan is to sign a winger who can play on both sides.
This suggests that while Liverpool are working to resolve any recent friction with their Egyptian King, they are simultaneously future-proofing the squad with a versatile forward capable of operating on either flank, reducing the reliance on Salah.
It also keeps the possibility open for a shock January sale of Salah to Saudi Pro League. The Liverpool hierarchy behind the scenes have reportedly held discussions with Saudi clubs who have expressed strong interest in signing him.
With Semenyo’s arrival now looking a major possibility, Salah’s future remains a question mark. The player previously hinted that the Brighton game could be his final game for the club, suggesting that the club might ship him off.
His gesture post Brighton win was also quite emotional as he lapped around the stadium as the fans serenaded him.
Liverpool look set to beat Premier League rivals to sign Semenyo
Securing Semenyo would be a massive coup for Arne Slot’s side, particularly given the fierce competition for his signature.
The Ghanaian international has been one of the most coveted attackers in the Premier League over the last 18 months, drawing interest from the likes of Manchester City and Tottenham.
By moving now to discuss payment structures, often the final hurdle in modern transfers, Liverpool appear to have stolen a march on their rivals.
The urgency suggests the Reds are keen to wrap up a deal swiftly, potentially for the January window, ensuring they don’t get drawn into a bidding war.
Antoine Semenyo’s excellent stats
It is easy to see why Liverpool are pressing ahead. Semenyo has been in electric form for the Cherries.
In the current 2025/26 campaign, he has already notched 6 goals and 3 assists in just 14 Premier League appearances, building on a breakout 2024/25 season where he scored 11 league goals.
His overall career tally to date stands at 55 goals and 36 assists in 268 games across four clubs: Bournemouth, Bristol City, Newport County and Sunderland.
His underlying numbers are equally impressive, ranking in the top percentiles for progressive carries and shot-creating actions. Crucially for Liverpool’s system, his versatility is elite.
Antoine Semenyo’s stats across various positions via Transfermarkt
While primarily dangerous as a right-winger cutting onto his left, he has played significant minutes as a left-winger and even as a central striker, making him the perfect tactical fit for a fluid Liverpool frontline.
That's it, except for Monaco and Marseille who play tonight at 8:45 PM, all teams have started their winter break. So we know who the autumn champion in Ligue 1 is, and it's a pleasant surprise.
The standout team of this first part of the season, Lens has defied all predictions and taken advantage of their competitors' missteps to climb to the top of the standings after 16 matchdays.
Thanks to their 2-0 victory against Nice this Sunday afternoon, Lens is ahead of PSG by a single point.
Led by their new coach Pierre Sage, a solid defense, and key players like Florian Thauvin or Mamadou Sangaré, the Blood and Gold currently reign supreme over Ligue 1.
🏆 Inter's Martínez lays down Capocannoniere gauntlet with latest goal
Inter are on course to obtain temporary control of the top spot in Serie A as they enjoy a 2-0 lead at half-time against Genoa.
In the wake of bitter rival Milan and fellow Scudetto challenger Napoli both stumbling earlier today, Cristian Chivu's Nerazzurri have strikes from Yann Aurel Bisseck and captain Lautaro Martínez to thank, with the Argentine hit man once again coming into focus.
His goal in the 38th minute was his fourth in his last three Serie A appearances for the Italian giant, putting him on eight league goals for the 2025/26 season.
With that, the 28-year-old pulls one goal ahead of Milan's Christian Pulisic in the race for the Paolo Rossi Award.
More impressively, Martínez is now just one of seven players who have been directly involved in at least 10 goals in each of the last seven seasons across the Big-5 European leagues, alongside Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, and Harry Kane.
Having already finished as the top goal-getter in Serie A in 2023/24 with 24 goals, Martínez's final-third instincts could once again be a catalyst for Inter pushing for top domestic.
Former Gunner Aaron Ramsey has praised Gabriel Jesus for his hard work to get back playing again, following the Brazilian’s return to action for Arsenal this week.
Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images
Ex-Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey appeared on The Saturday Wrap for Premier League Productions on Saturday night, reflecting on the Gunners’ late win over Wolverhampton Wanderers.
It was a Yerson Mosquera own goal that gave Arsenal the victory, but Gabriel Jesus deserves some credit for putting the Wolves defender under the pressure that forced the mistake.
The striker could be seen on the live TV broadcast immediately admitting it was an own goal, but if he wasn’t there it would have been a simple clearance.
Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images
After 11 months out with an ACL injury, it’s nice to see Jesus involved in an important win, even if he won’t get any official credit for the winner.
Ramsey has had plenty of injury problems of his own over the years, and he was quick to praise the forward’s resilience to fight his way back to the pitch.
“Brilliant,” Ramsey said of Jesus’ return. “I know probably the amount of work that he had to put in to get back to where he is now. All the repetitions in the gym, mentally really challenging. Hard work is paying off. It’s great to see him back. He has so much quality.”
Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images
Football fans often undervalue the work that goes into returning from injury, simply because it all happens away from the TV cameras. It’s easy to just forget about a player when they spend 11 months on the sidelines, focusing on those on the pitch instead.
But Jesus has had to put in the work almost every single day throughout 2025 to reach this point, and it’s nice to see Ramsey paying tribute to that effort.
‘This is a really good result’ – Arsenal boss Slegers reflects on victory at Everton
Arsenal head coach Renée Slegers said that the 3-1 victory over Everton at Goodison Park represented a really good result for her side.
Katie McCabe, Alessia Russo and Olivia Smith were on target for The Gunners as they overcame an Everton side that had defeated Barclays Women’s Super League champions Chelsea less than a week earlier.
When speaking in the post-match press conference, Slegers admitted that she was pleased with her side’s performance against a dangerous and unpredictable Everton outfit.
“Everton maybe have more qualities and more threats on transition and that’s what they showed a couple of times,” Slegers said. “I think overall in general, we managed that well in the game and that was a key area to manage well.
“I think our dominance speaks for itself if you watch the game subjectively, but then also the facts after the game. We want that to be expressed in goals. I think it’s good when facing Everton away to score two goals in the first half, I think that’s a good scenario.
“Of course, you don’t want to concede that one [goal]. Yes, we would like to score more, but I think at the end of the day, this is a really good result, 3- 1 away against Everton.”
Defender Leah Williamson made her return to club football for the first time this season. Slegers explained the careful management around Williamson’s return.
She said “Seeing Leah training and as she got more opportunities to train with the team, she looked better and better. I thought she was ready because of how good she has looked in training, so we were comfortable bringing her on. It’s still about finding the right moment because even though she’s a very experienced player, she’s been away for four months, so you want that come back to be good. I think it worked really well today.”
This was Slegers’ first time at Goodison Park and she spoke about the experience of playing in L4, as well as the support received from the travelling fans.
She said “I think it’s a beautiful stadium. For me, coming from the Netherlands being in England where all the football started, you can just feel that there’s so much history in the stadium. I really like the stadium and the pitch was good as well. It was great.
“The atmosphere from the away section was fantastic, they travel in such numbers. It’s fantastic the support we get and I can’t say it enough because I deeply feel that we are privileged to get this much support. We’re always thinking about them and we want to deliver good performances and points for them, so I was really happy with the connection between players and fans today.”
Arsenal’s next fixture is a UEFA Women’s Champions League tie against OH Leuven in Belgium on Wednesday night.
La Liga outfit Sevilla have set their sights on a deal for Angers star Himad Abdelli.
That’s according to transfer insider Santi Aouna, who has on Sunday provided the latest on the future of the Algerian international.
Sevilla, it is understood, are on the lookout for reinforcements in the middle of the park with a view to next season.
Amid an ongoing crisis on the financial front, though, the Nervionenses are aware that cut-price market opportunities will need to be sought.
And if the latest word stemming from the French media is anything to go by, then one such option appears to have presented itself, in the form of Himad Abdelli.
As per a report from market expert Santi Aouna, as part of a report for Foot Mercato:
‘FC Sevilla want to sign Himad Abdelli next summer. The talented Algerian midfielder will be free to commit wherever he wants in six months.’
Guadalajara vs Barcelona: date, kick-off time, venue and Copa del Rey preview
First-ever meeting in Round of 32
Guadalajara vs Barcelona: date, kick-off time, venue and Copa del Rey preview
Barcelona will begin their Copa del Rey 2025 /26 campaign with away trip as they face Guadalajara.
A club competing in Spain’s third division, in the Round of 32.
The match represents classic cup challenge for the Catalan giants who enter the competition as the most successful club in the tournament’s history.
Guadalajara vs Barcelona – match details
Date: Tuesday, 16 December 2025
Kick-off time: 20:00 (GMT)
Stadium: Pedro Escartín Stadium
Competition: Copa del Rey – Round of 32
The tie will be played as single leg knockout. If the match ends in draw after 90 minute, it will proceed to extra time, followed by penalty shootouts if needed.
This will be the first encounter between Barcelona & Guadalajara in official competition.
The hosts are coached by Pere Marti formerly in charge of Villarreal, Malaga and Elche adding intriguing tactical subplot to the fixture.
Barcelona chasing another Copa del Rey title
Barcelona head into the match full of confidence after defeating Osasuna 2-0.. a result that strengthened their grip on top spot in La Liga.
The Copa del Rey remains priority for the Blaugrana who currently hold the all-time record with 33 title and will be aiming to extend that tally this season.
Real Oviedo confirm second managerial sacking of the season
Real Oviedo are searching for their third manager of the season, having taken the decision to part ways with Luis Carrion.
The 46-year-old, who returned in October for his second spell in charge, has been sacked in the immediate aftermath of Sunday’s 4-0 defeat to Sevilla at the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan. An official statement published by Oviedo has confirmed his dismissal.
“Real Oviedo have taken the decision to terminate Luis Carrión’s contract as coach of the first team.
“The blue coach is no longer coach of the team from the capital of the Principality. Similarly, the coaching staff that accompanies him also ends his relationship with the Carbayona entity.
“Real Oviedo would like to thank Luis Carrión and his coaching staff for their dedication, professionalism and work during their time at the Club, wishing them all the luck in the world in their professional future.”
Image via Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Image
Carrion was appointed in October to replace Veljko Paunovic, who was sacked after only eight La Liga matches. However, he struggled to turn things around at the Carlos Tartiere, as he went winless during his nine games in charge, which included a disappointing defeat to Ourense in the Copa del Rey.
Carrion becomes second La Liga manager sacked on Sunday
Prior to Sunday, there had been two managers sacked in La Liga this season (Paunovic at Oviedo, Julian Calero at Levante), but that number has now doubled. Earlier in the day, Real Sociedad took the decision to relieve Sergio Francisco of his duties, and he has now been joined by Carrion in being sacked.
Oviedo host Celta Vigo in their final match of 2025 next weekend, after which it is the winter break. That will allow club bosses to search for a replacement, although whoever comes in will struggle to save the Asturians from relegation, given that they’re five points adrift at this stage of the season.
Van Dijk adds new twist to Salah saga ahead of AFCON
Virgil van Dijk addresses Mohamed Salah’s Liverpool future
Van Dijk adds new twist to Salah saga ahead of AFCON
Virgil van Dijk has added new layer of uncertainty to Mohamed Salah’s future at Liverpool admitting he hopes the Egyptian star remains at Anfield but conceding that “no one knows what will happen” in the coming months.
Salah recently etched his name deeper into Premier League history becoming the most prolific goal contributor for single club after providing assist for Hugo Ekitike’s second goal against Brighton.
The Egyptian now boasts extraordinary 277 goal contribution for Liverpool in the league, made up of 188 goal and 89 assist.
However the historic milestone came amid turbulent week for Salah who publicly voiced his frustration after being benched for three consecutive league match under new head coach Arne Slot.
A situation that also saw him left out of Liverpool’s Champions League clash against Inter Milan last Tuesday.
Mohamed Salah now has the third-most goal involvements in Premier League history 🤩 pic.twitter.com/1uKd5Jm5Xz
Speaking to the media on Sunday, Liverpool captain Van Dijk addressed the growing speculation surrounding Salah’s future offering both support & realism.
“I would love Mohamed to stay with us because he’s one of our leaders,” Van Dijk said. “But he’s heading to the Africa Cup of Nations now. We’ll stay in touch over the coming days and weeks as we always do and we’ll see what happens.”
The Dutch defender acknowledged that the situation remains beyond anyone’s control.
“I hope he comes back to us after the tournament. His presence is extremely important for this team,” Van Dijk added. “But we all know football. nobody can predict the future.”
Salah Heads to AFCON after final Liverpool appearance
The Brighton match marked Salah’s final appearance for Liverpool before travelling to Morocco where he will represent Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations which kicks off at the end of the week.
Despite the recent controversy, Van Dijk insisted the dressing room remains united & unaffected.
“Mohamed handled the situation very well,” the Liverpool skipper concluded. “The atmosphere in the dressing room hasn’t been impacted at all.”
🌪️ Le tourbillon Mohamed Salah.
Le stade chante son nom avant le corner. Il s’exécute, dépose une galette… Doublé pour Hugo Ekitike. 🎯👑pic.twitter.com/Uth0hmK75r
“So disappointed for our supporters and sorry for the performance really in the sense of a lack of goalmouth action, the lack of clinical attacking which we’ve tried to pride ourselves on over recent seasons,” the Newcastle boss said.
“It wasn’t there today and for that we’re sorry. It certainly wasn’t a lack of effort from the lads but today wasn’t our day.”
Howe defended his players, including Woltemade, however, insisting it was not a lack of effort or desire that was to blame.
“I hope he won’t take that personally,” Howe said on the Germany striker. “It’s one of those things that can happen in a game.
“He’s gone back with good intentions and he’s defended set plays for us well since he’s been here. That’s just an unfortunate moment and I don’t hold him in any way responsible for that.
“I don’t think anyone has gone out there with any other intention than trying to win the game and give their best.
“Was there possibly a bit of fatigue in our performance? Yes. Not an excuse, just a reality.
“We’re stretched in our backline, we’ve got a number of injuries and that is alarming for us so it’s not a perfect field for us currently, we’re battling a few situations, but we still have to say we should have played better.
“In our preparation we tried to cover every base in terms of the importance of the fixture but I think in professional sport sometimes there’s random events in games which dictate how the players feel and that’s nothing to do with the preparation or importance of the game, it’s sport.
“The game twists and turns in moments and those moments went against us today.”
“Long may it continue” – John Terry calls for underrated star to be praised after “excellent” Everton display
Chelsea legend John Terry believes Robert Sanchez is underrated as he praised his performance in Saturday’s win against Everton.
The Blues recorded a much needed 2-0 win to end a four game winless run and ease building pressure on Enzo Maresca.
Cole Palmer opened the scoring with his first goal since September, whilst Malo Gusto added a second just before half time.
John Terry praises Robert Sanchez
It was a much needed response after three poor games on the spin, with Gusto very much the standout player on the pitch.
Chelsea recorded another clean sheet, with the partnership of Trevoh Chalobah and Wesley Fofana going from strength to strength.
Sanchez has been in really good form this season. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Sanchez has now kept eight clean sheets in the league, the joint most with Arsenal’s David Raya, and Terry feels the Chelsea number one is underrated.
“Big clean sheet as well for the boys, we deserved that today,” he said on TikTok.
“I thought defensively, we were very good. Sanchez was excellent as well, and has been very good in recent weeks.
“Long may that continue.”
Sanchez has improved hugely this season, and is making far fewer mistakes than he’s done in previous seasons, and is fast becoming very reliable between the sticks.
@johnterry26
Big win today, well done boys 👊🏻busy few weeks ahead 💙 #chelsea #chelseafc #premierleague #colepalmer #cfc
♬ original sound – John Terry
Malo Gusto the star man
Whilst Sanchez recorded another clean sheet, Gusto was very much the best player on the pitch, despite Cole Palmer scoring.
The France international also registered an assist, and put in arguably his best performance in a Chelsea shirt since joining the club.
Gusto is unlikely to start against Cardiff in the Carabao Cup quarter final on Tuesday evening, but will very much have an important role to play over the busy festive period.
Haaland and Foden help power City to a key victory at Crystal Palace
A brace from Erling Haaland and fine strike from Phil Foden helped inspire City to a crucial 3-0 win at Crystal Palace – and back to within two points of Premier League leaders Arsenal.
In what proved a tough and demanding test at Selhurst Park, a towering 41st minute header from Haaland had broken the first half deadlock.
Palace proved dangerous opponents and twice hit the City woodwork through Yeremy Pino and Adam Wharton.
But Pep Guardiola’s side were not to be denied and a brilliant 69th minute strike from Foden stretched the advantage.
An 88th minute Haaland penalty - awarded after substitute Savinho had been brought down - then sealed the deal.
It was our fourth straight league win and put us back within touching distance of the leaders with the title race really ramping up.
The game in 250 words
With City pitted against a talented and well drilled Palace side, a cagey, tactical contest took time to really ignite.
It was Palace who created the game’s first real opening on 16 minutes with City relieved to see a Yeremy Pino shot hit the top of the bar.
MIDDLE MARCH: Tijjani Reijnders in the thick of things at Selhurst Park.
After evading the offside trap, the Spaniard latched onto the dangerous Adam Wharton’s inviting through ball and from 16 yards his shot beat Gianluigi Donnarumma but clipped the top of the bar.
City sought to summon up a response and Palace keeper Dean Henderson needed to be alert on the half hour to keep out a 25-yard Phil Foden free-kick after Nico had been blocked on the edge of the box.
And out of nowhere, City broke the deadlock on 41 minutes through, who else, Erling Haaland.
For the first time, the Blues were able to deliver an inviting ball into the heart of the box thanks to Matheus Nunes.
Haaland evaded the attention of Chris Richards and the Norwegian rose superbly to head home his 22nd goal of the season for City in all competitions
RISE AND SHINE: Erling Haaland rises to make the breakthrough.
At the other end Donnarumma was again alert to twice deny Jean-Phillipe Mateta as Palace looked to respond.
City were then grateful to intervention of the woodwork once again four minutes after the restart, a low Wharton drive clipping the foot of the right post – much to Donnarumma’s relief.
However, City looked a real threat ourselves going forward and only a smart save from Dean Henderson stopped Tijjani Reijnders from extending our advantage on 57 minutes after a lightning break from Pep Guardiola’s men.
But City were not to be denied and Foden thenstruck on 69 minutes to double our advantage.
The England star maintained his brilliant form by latching onto a fine pass from Rayan Cherki before beating Henderson’s despairing dive to drill home his 10th goal of the season.
City still needed to be alert as Palace sought to conjure up a late revival.
But victory was then sealed two minutes from time when Haaland converted his second and City’s third from the penalty spot.
The Norwegian struck again after substitute Savinho had been brought down by Henderson after breaking clear to set the seal on a superb afternoon’s work.
CELEBRATION TIME: Erling Haaland is mobbed after his first half header.
There were several compelling candidates but, not for the first time this season, Josko Gvardiol really caught the eye.
On what was a testing afternoon in south east London, the Croatian defender showed all of his class and composure.
He even shrugged off the effects of taking an elbow to the face early on to also demonstrate his bravery.
STOP START: Josko Gvardiol in control for City.
Crystal clear
Today’s victory helped further extend what has become a superb record for City at Selhurst Park.
We are now unbeaten there in the past 11 Premier League games – a remarkable record given how tough a venue the Eagles’ lair is to play at.
City to the four
That’s now four straight wins in league for the Blues who are really building up a head of steam you feel.
And coming on the back of last Wednesday’s win at Real Madrid it was even more of a statement.
Given Pep Guardiola’s side traditionally only get into top gear once we enter the second half of the season, our current form and record really feels encouraging as we close in on the halfway mark of the season.
THE BOSS: Pep Guardiola watches over proceedings.
Pep’s reaction
To follow
Player reaction
To follow
GET IN: The celebrations start after Phil Foden's strike.
What it means
A fourth successive Premier League victory means City remain in second place in the table and move back up to within two points of leaders Arsenal.
We have now played 16 games and have accrued 34 points. The Gunners have 36 from their opening 16 matches.
Erling Haaland brace sees Man City beat Palace, close Gap on Arsenal
Crystal Palace suffered a 3-0 defeat to Manchester City in the Premier League at Selhurst Park on Sunday afternoon.
Palace started the game brightly and were the better side in the first half, but were not clinical in front of goal.
Palace should have opened the scoring in the 17th minute when Adam Wharton put Yeremy Pino through on goal, but the Spaniard smashed his effort against the crossbar.
Palace came close to getting the breakthrough as Daichi Kamada picked out Ismaila Sarr, whose flashed cross into the area evaded Jean-Philippe Mateta.
On the half-hour mark, Pino was presented with another chance to give the Eagles the lead, receiving a pass from Sarr, only to fire a tame effort at Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Palace were made to rue their missed chances as City scored with their first chance in the 41st minute.
Matheus Nunes whipped a cross into the area, which was met by Erling Haaland’s towering header, giving City the lead before the break.
Four minutes after the restart, Palace almost drew level through Wharton, whose low strike beat Donnarumma and hit the woodwork.
Palace had Henderson to thank as the English goalkeeper made a brilliant save to deny Tijjani Reijnders from doubling City’s lead.
At the other end, Wharton missed another chance to restore parity for the hosts, firing over the bar after combining with Pino.
City made it 2-0 in the 69th minute with Rayan Cherki driving past his markers before slipping the ball to Phil Foden, who picked out the bottom corner from outside the box.
A minute from time, Haaland completed the scoring from the penalty spot, sending Henderson the wrong way.
With the victory, City reduce Arsenal’s lead at the top of the standings to two points, while Palace fall to fifth.
‘Why not?’ – Dayot Upamecano refuses to rule out a potential move to PSG
In an interview with Téléfoot, Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano (27) was asked about the prospect of teaming up with Ousmane Dembélé at Paris Saint-Germain. The speculation around the 27-year-old’s future has been increasing with his contract at the Bundesliga champions set to expire at the end of the season.
With Upamecano potentially leaving the Bavarian outfit on a free transfer, there are several clubs reportedly interested in his services. PSG and Real Madrid have both been linked with a potential move for the France international defender. Despite the interest, talks over a new contract are ongoing.
Upamecano to team up with Dembélé?
The former RB Leipzig centre-back and the Ballon d’Or winner are childhood friends. When asked about the possibility of playing with his international teammate at the club level, the defender said, “Why not? Yes.” It remains to be seen where the Frenchman will be playing his football next season, but with him refusing to rule out playing with the PSG attacker, links to the Ligue 1 champions will continue.
Maresca is currently unhappy with something at Chelsea. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
“Enzo Maresca has an internal issue at Chelsea.
“Expected to clarify his comments before Cardiff. – #CFC insiders insist Maresca wasn’t singling out any individual.
“Frustration brewing for a while – Rotation debated – Wearing non-Chelsea clothing unrelated.”
Chelsea had been on a four game winless run before beating the Toffees, but why Maresca chose that moment to make his frustrations known isn’t clear.
Maresca had been under pressure earlier in the season after losses to Manchester United and Brighton, but the Chelsea hierarchy believe he’s still very much the right man to lead the project forward.
Chelsea not expected to be in position to win the league this season
The former Leicester boss guided Chelsea back to the Champions League last season, whilst also winning the Conference League and Club World Cup.
However, fans would love to see the club compete for and get back to winning league titles, with the last one coming in 2017 under Antonio Conte, and truth be told the Blues haven’t got close since.
Serie A | Udinese 1-0 Napoli: Ekkelenkamp stunner sinks leaders
Napoli rode their luck for two disallowed goals, but were eventually undone by a Jurgen Ekkelenkamp stunner for Udinese.
The Partenopei looked exhausted in their midweek Champions League defeat to Benfica, but had few alternatives available, as Juan Jesus joined Billy Gilmour, Andre Frank Zambo Anguissa, Kevin De Bruyne, Alex Meret and Romelu Lukaku on the treatment table. Stanislav Lobotka and Miguel Gutierrez were back on the bench. The Friulani lost Jordan Zemura in the surprise 2-1 home defeat to Genoa, with Arthur Atta and Hassane Kamara already out.
UDINE, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Antonio Conte and Kosta Runjaic before kick off at the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and SSC Napoli at Stadio Friuli on December 14, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Nicolò Bertola risked an own goal with his decisive interception, as Leonardo Spinazzola got down the left and rolled across for a Noa Lang tap-in. Lang then fired over on the resulting corner.
Vanja Milinkovic-Savic pushed away a Jurgen Ekkelenkamp strike from the edge of the area, with the Nicolò Zaniolo follow-up charged down, while Jakub Piotrowski nodded wide.
Udinese came out more aggressive for the restart and had the ball in the net when Milinkovic-Savic’s weak parry on Bertola’s strike from the edge of the box was tapped in by Keinan Davis, but the forward was offside.
UDINE, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Vanja Milinkovic-Savic of Napoli makes a clearance kick during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and SSC Napoli at Stadio Friuli on December 14, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
The hosts threatened again soon after when Piotrowski smashed his finish onto the underside of the crossbar down the right flank.
Zaniolo really should’ve opened the scoring when firing wide at the end of a well-worked move at the back post. He did get the ball in the net moments later, but it was disallowed when VAR spotted Karlstrom’s foul on Lobotka in the build-up.
UDINE, ITALY – DECEMBER 14: Noa Lang of Napoli controls the ball during the Serie A match between Udinese Calcio and SSC Napoli at Stadio Friuli on December 14, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Udinese finally scored a goal that counted when Jurgen Ekkelenkamp bent a sensational right-foot finish into the far top corner from the edge of the box, giving Milinkovic-Savic no chance.
Napoli wasted an astonishing opportunity to equalise on 88 minutes when Lorenzo Lucca got down the right and rolled across, but Hojlund off balance stumbled and somehow prodded it off target from a couple of yards.
Lucca went for it himself in stoppages and came sliding in to meet the David Neres cross, volleying it onto the base of the back post.
Exclusive: Possanzini on the brink at Mantova, Modesto in the running
Davide Possanzini is walking on thin ice at Mantova, and Francesco Modesto has emerged as a possible replacement.
Possanzini is once again on the brink at Mantova as the Serie B side’s management is making serious assessments that can lead to the coach’s dismissal.
Surely, the latest defeat against Cesena was not digested as the team had taken a two-goal lead, but then suffered a comeback, eventually losing 3-2.
Mantova directors want to have a proper think on whether to go forward with the current coach, who had already been on the brink a few weeks ago, but then managed to keep his spot.
Now the situation is tricky once again, and there are already some possible candidates to replace Possanzini.
Sources with direct knowledge of the matter exclusively tell me that Francesco Modesto is the leading candidate for the job, but the list also includes Maran and Pagliuca, who are slightly below Modesto.
In the meantime, Possanzini’s future at Mantova is once again uncertain.
❌ Will Kobel serve Bellingham’s ban? BVB down a man after costly error
Everything was actually going according to plan, and despite personnel worries, Borussia Dortmund was clearly on course for an away win in Freiburg. Bensebaini had put his team ahead in the first half (31’).
However, things look different now, as the Borussians have to play the rest of the match with one man down!
Gregor Kobel and Jobe Bellingham – albeit unintentionally – did their team a disservice together.
Kobel played a risky pass out from the back to his teammate, who wanted to collect the ball in classic holding midfielder fashion, centrally just in front of the penalty area. In doing so, he failed to notice Philipp Treu behind him, who got to the ball first.
The Dortmund player then caught the attacking player, who went to ground, and Bellingham was shown a straight red card.
If he hadn’t stopped him, the Freiburg player would have been through on goal alone against the BVB keeper – so it was a professional foul with the corresponding consequence. Bellingham immediately knew what was coming and left the field without much protest. It was his first foul of the match.
Günter put the resulting free kick from about 18 meters just wide to the left, but SC now has a huge advantage. Borussia Dortmund are likely facing a stressful final few minutes.
What do you think? Will Dortmund hold on to their narrow away lead and overtake Leipzig for second place? Or will Freiburg now take control in their own stadium? Feel free to let us know in the comments!
Haaland the difference as City beat Palace, keep up chase on Arsenal
Manchester City defeated Crystal Palace 3-0 this Sunday, away from home at Selhurst Park. The score didn’t fully reflect the game, but it showed the efficiency of Pep Guardiola’s team.
Palace started better and created the first chances. Wharton commanded the midfield, Pino hit the crossbar, and Sarr wasted good opportunities. They lacked precision in finishing.
Even under pressure, City was lethal. In the 40th minute of the first half, Haaland took advantage of a precise cross from Nunes and scored with a header on the team’s first clear chance.
In the second half, the scenario remained the same. Palace kept attacking, but was stopped by good saves from Donnarumma and blocks from the defense. City, once again, was clinical when they arrived.
In the 69th minute, Cherki made a great individual play and set up Foden, who was free to extend the lead. The Englishman shot low into the corner, scoring his seventh goal in five games.
In the final minutes, Savinho broke away on a counterattack and won a penalty. Haaland calmly converted, redeeming himself for the missed penalty in the FA Cup final and sealing the score: 3-0.
With the win, Manchester City continues to chase Arsenal in the Premier League. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace leaves the pitch frustrated and could lose positions in the table in the next round.
To commemorate the 150th anniversary of Gelsenkirchen, Schalke played with a special-edition kit for their last 2025 home game against Nürnberg. Vitalie Becker scored the only goal for the league leaders as the 20-year-old scored in back-to-back games.
The win confirmed Schalke will start 2026 at the top of the 2. Bundesliga standings. Meanwhile, Elversberg and Darmstadt regained their spots at the top three with narrow wins over Fortuna Düsseldorf and Preußen Münster
Otto Stange scored the only goal ten minutes before time for Elversberg against Düsseldorf. The pre-season promotion favorites have now dropped to 17th place. A solitary second-half goal from Killian Corredor was also enough for Florian Kohfeldt’s Darmstadt side to see off Münster.
Barcelona veteran ‘doubtful’ ahead of Copa Del Rey clash against CD Guadalajara
Following a win over CA Osasuna this weekend, Barcelona have returned to training as they prepare for midweek’s Copa Del Rey encounter against CD Guadalajara.
It should be a routine affair for the Catalans, who are expected to win against a side competing in the lower tier of the Spanish footballing pyramid.
However, there are concerns around Szczesny’s compatriot, Robert Lewandowski.
Lewandowski doubtful for cup match
According to Mundo Deportivo, Robert Lewandowski was one of the players who couldn’t train with the team and remained in the gym as a precaution.
The precaution was taken as part of Barcelona’s plans to give all key starters a breather as the club brace themselves for a busy schedule ahead.
Lewandowski is a doubt for the Cup match. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
The report adds that Lewandowski, who did some participate at all during the Osasuna game, did some warm-up exercises in the second half.
He had also arrived at the match with back discomfort, which has now put question marks over his participation against CD Guadalajara.
The report even goes on to suggest that the Pole is a doubt heading into the Copa Del Rey clash in midweek.
This is hardly surprising as Barcelona are unlikely to take any risks with their star striker, especially against a team participating in the lower tier of Spanish football.
Lewandowski, for his part, though, would have ideally liked to play against Guadalajara to retain his scoring momentum, having failed to perform well in the last few matches.
One player who will start against the minnows this midweek is Frenkie de Jong, who has seen minimal game time in recent matches and will be desperate to perform.
Player Ratings: Milan 2-2 Sassuolo: Bartesaghi and Pinamonti shine, Tomori falls short
Davide Bartesaghi is Football Italia’s MOTM in Milan’s 2-2 draw against Sassuolo, but Andrea Pinamonti was impressive for the Neroverdi, providing two assists.
Best Milan player: Bartesaghi 8 – First two goals in Serie A. A day he’ll not forget, but it wasn’t enough to secure all three points.
Lowest Milan rating: Tomori 5 – Lost track of Laurienté when the Frenchman scored the equaliser, and even later on, when he could have scored the third one for Sassuolo. Gabbia and De Winter were also equally disappointing.
Milan coach: Allegri 5.5 –Milan once again dropped points against a newly promoted side at San Siro. The Rossoneri boss didn’t have many options in attack, which is why Pulisic’s substitution will make people talk in the coming days.
Best Sassuolo player: Pinamonti 7.5 – Two fantastic assists to inspire Sassuolo’s big draw at San Siro. He now has four goals and three assists in 15 Serie A matches this term. Still looking for consistency, but also underrated. Koné was also brilliant today, besides his goal.
Lowest Sassuolo rating: Fadera 5.5 – He helped the team defensively, but took a big risk in the first half when he lost possession just outside the box.
Sassuolo coach: Grosso 7 – Just one loss in the last five games. The game plan was excellent, including leaving Laurienté on the bench to hurt Milan in the second part of the match. Sassuolo have 21 points, practically safe already, and it’s not even Christmas. Oh, and don’t forget they were without Berardi today.
⚡️ West Ham race to season milestone with shock opener vs Aston Villa
There could be a holiday twist on the cards this afternoon as West Ham took a shock early lead against Premier League title race outfit Aston Villa.
Unai Emery's Villains have been one of the sides of the 2025/26 season as we approach the Christmas period, with the Hammers having contrasting fortunes across what has been a campaign featuring relegation whispers.
But that could all change today, at least for a moment, after young Portuguese midfielder Mateus Fernandes bagged the opener inside the first 30 seconds of action at London Stadium.
That strike, his second of the league season, became the fastest goal scored in the English top flight less than 24 hours after Hugo Ekitike's quick-fire opener for Liverpool during the Reds' 2-0 win over Brighton yesterday.
There's another new fastest goal of the season... ⏱️
Though his opener would go on to be cancelled out by a headed strike from Ollie Watkins on his 200th league appearance, could Fernandes' early goal be a sign of things to come from Nuno Espírito Santo's outfit?
Celtic starting XI for League Cup Final against St Mirren
Celtic have the opportunity to claim the first piece of silverware of the season this afternoon when they face St Mirren in the League Cup Final at Hampden Park.
The Hoops reached the showpiece occasion after defeating Rangers 3-1 after extra-time in the semi-final in November, whilst St Mirren were 4-1 winners against Motherwell in the other semi-final.
Ahead of today’s match, Wilfried Nancy has made two changes to the team after the midweek defeat against Roma.
Anthony Ralston comes in from the start and there is a starting place for Kelechi Iheanacho, his first since recovering from injury recently.
Kick-off at Hampden Park is at 3.30pm and you can follow all the action on our official match centre.
Max Allegri upbeat despite Milan’s draw against Sassuolo
Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance following their frustrating 2-2 draw against Sassuolo, a match where Milan’s goals came from a Davide Bartesaghi brace, only to be pegged back by a Armand Laurientè equalizer. Allegri insisted the point was valuable as the club’s focus shifts to the upcoming Supercoppa Italiana.
Speaking to DAZN after the match, the manager preferred to focus on the attacking display while acknowledging recurring defensive issues.
He said – relayed by MilanNews: “Today, in my opinion, we played a good match, we attacked well against a set defense. Sassuolo is always dangerous. But let’s say we played a good match, but we risked losing it after our [potential] 3-1. Let’s take this point and prepare for the Supercoppa.”
Allegri was keen to protect his players but admitted the team’s tendency to concede remains a major problem.
“Regardless of the players’ characteristics, the team played a good match. We are momentarily at the top of the table. Our path is to reach the top 4 by May 25th. We know we must continue to work, and we must start conceding fewer goals because we have conceded too many. 2 against Parma, 2 today, 2 in Turin, 2 with Pisa, 2 with Torino, 2 with Cremonese. However, I have absolutely nothing to reproach the boys for.”
Despite the late drama that saw his side nearly lose, Allegri remained pragmatic about the result.
“A draw doesn’t change the team’s dynamics. We know the characteristics of the whole squad… We know we can’t win every game, but we need to continue giving consistency to the results. Today we even risked losing, with Laurienté’s shot we could have lost. We take home a draw which today seems like two thrown away points, but in the end will prove useful.”
Before the game, Milan were top of the table in Serie A. A draw does see them drop crucial points but a lot can depend on how Napoli and Iner fare in their games later.
Allegri explains Pulisic’s substitution but ‘too easy’ for Sassuolo to score
Massimiliano Allegri insists he would have replaced Christian Pulisic even if Milan didn’t play in the Supercoppa next week, but feels it was ‘too easy’ for Sassuolo to score goals in a 2-2 draw.
Milan were held to a 2-2 draw by newly promoted side Sassuolo at San Siro on Sunday.
The Rossoneri already dropped points against Cremonese and Pisa, two other teams coming from Serie B, earlier this season.
Davide Bartesaghi scored his first two goals in Serie A, but Ismael Koné and Armand Laurienté helped a brave Sassuolo return home with one point in their pocket.
“I think we played a good game, we attacked well, and Sassuolo are always dangerous because they have quality in attack, so if you don’t recover the ball immediately, you are forced to track back for 90 minutes,” Allegri told DAZN.
“We played a good game, but in the end, we even risked losing it. Now we focus on the Supercoppa.
PARMA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 08: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan, looks on prior to the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and AC Milan at Stadio Ennio Tardini on November 08, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“The lads played a good game, regardless of the players’ characteristics. For now, we are still the table leaders, and our target is to qualify for the Champions League,” the Italian tactician continued.
“We know there’s a lot of work to do, and obviously, we must start conceding fewer goals. I can’t absolutely blame the lads today.”
Milan will face Napoli in Saudi Arabia in the Supercoppa Italia semifinal next Thursday.
Allegri replaced Pulisic in the second half and said he would have done the same even if Milan didn’t play the Partenopei next week.
“I would have done it anyway. Christian had joined us in Turin after a fever and then trained. He played well for 72 minutes, but at that moment, we needed one more midfielder. Loftus-Cheek held firm up front, but we had to defend better, especially for the second goal. We had to follow Laurienté, and it was too easy for them to score.”
Christopher Nkunku provided the assist for Bartesaghi’s second goal.
Allegri explains Pulisic’s substitution
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 23: Christian Pulisic of AC Milan during the Coppa Italia Frecciarossa Round of 16 match between AC Milan and US Lecce at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)
“Today he played a good game, as in Turin. He was decisive for the second goal; he had a chance in the final minutes,” argued Allegri.
“He was very good. We know the team’s quality, we know we can’t win every game, and we must give consistency to the results. Today, we could have lost the match, but we took home a draw. Today it seems that we’ve thrown two points away, but in the end, it will prove to be useful.”
Matteo Gabbia was subbed off with a suspected knee injury in the second half.
“Let’s see. Hopefully it’s nothing serious. We’ll see tomorrow, but De Winter and Odogu will be ready to play,” concluded Allegri.
Raheem Sterling Exit Looms as Chelsea Weigh January Options
Raheem Sterling’s Chelsea career appears to be drifting towards a quiet conclusion. According to a report from Caught Offside, the winger now finds himself edging closer to the exit door at Stamford Bridge, with Chelsea increasingly open to sanctioning a January departure. Once one of England’s most reliable attacking outlets, Sterling is now described as being on the fringes of Enzo Maresca’s plans, with limited minutes and little sense of a long term role.
Sources close to the agents industry have indicated that Chelsea are prepared to let Sterling leave, driven by both sporting and financial concerns. The report notes that “Chelsea are open to letting Sterling leave this winter, with the player’s wages posing a major financial burden for the club.” That context is key. This is less about sentiment and more about pragmatism, as Chelsea continue to reshape their wage structure.
Sterling’s output of “19 goals in 81 appearances for the Blues” underlines a career that never quite ignited in west London. While not disastrous, it fell short of expectations attached to his arrival.
Photo: IMAGO
Chelsea cost control sharpens decision making
Chelsea’s willingness to consider multiple exit routes speaks volumes. Caught Offside report that senior figures are exploring “a permanent transfer, loan move, or even a mutual termination if no suitable deal emerges.” This flexibility reflects a club keen to reduce overheads and accelerate its shift towards youth driven squad building.
This approach aligns with the ownership model of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital. As stated, “The move aligns with Chelsea’s cost-control strategy under the ownership of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, who are seeking to balance the wage structure and create room for younger, developing players.” Sterling’s experience and salary now place him firmly outside that bracket.
Despite his pedigree, “Sterling’s lack of consistency and limited involvement under Maresca have made him a prime candidate to leave in January.” In modern Chelsea terms, that is often a decisive verdict.
Palace and Leeds emerge as Premier League suitors
Interest closer to home remains strong, and the Premier League feels like the most realistic destination. Caught Offside highlight Crystal Palace as serious admirers, stating, “Crystal Palace have expressed admiration for Sterling’s experience and versatility, with manager Oliver Glasner eager to add attacking depth amid injury concerns in his forward line.”
Palace’s interest feels logical. Glasner values movement, direct running, and tactical intelligence, all qualities Sterling still possesses. A short term deal could offer Palace proven top flight experience without long term risk.
Leeds United also feature prominently in the report. “Meanwhile, Leeds United, currently pushing to avoid relegation, view Sterling as a potential marquee signing who could inject pace, creativity, and top-flight experience into their attack.” For a club fighting to stabilise its Premier League status, Sterling’s name alone carries weight.
Photo: IMAGO
Europe priority shapes Sterling future
Sterling’s situation has not gone unnoticed beyond England. The article notes that “Sterling’s name continues to circulate across Europe and beyond. Bayern Munich explored a potential loan deal in the past, and Saudi Pro League clubs have reportedly renewed their interest in signing the winger.” Yet money alone is not the driver.
Crucially, “Sterling’s priority remains in Europe, where he hopes to rebuild his form and reputation through regular football.” Having slipped out of the England squad, the winger is described as being “determined to revive his career in a competitive environment rather than chase a high-paying move abroad.”
That determination frames January as a pivotal moment. Caught Offside suggest that “a January exit now appears more a matter of when than if,” with Palace currently seen as frontrunners due to style and opportunity. If that move materialises, it could offer Sterling one final platform to reconnect with the sharpness that once defined his game.
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For Crystal Palace fans, this feels cautiously encouraging. Sterling would not arrive as a long term project but as a solution to immediate problems. Injuries have disrupted Palace’s forward line, and Glasner’s system demands players who can stretch defences and think quickly in transition. Sterling still offers that, even if his peak years are behind him. Supporters would see this as a low risk, high upside move, particularly if structured as a loan with Chelsea covering part of the wage.
For Leeds fans, the reaction would be more conflicted. Sterling as a “marquee signing” sounds appealing, but survival battles demand consistency and durability. There would be excitement at the idea of pace and experience, yet concern about wages and whether Sterling can carry the physical load of a relegation scrap. Leeds supporters would want clarity on commitment and fitness before embracing the idea fully.
Both sets of fans would agree on one thing. If Sterling truly wants to rebuild his reputation in Europe, as Caught Offside suggest, then motivation should not be in doubt. In the right environment, with defined expectations, this could still be a smart move rather than a nostalgic one.
🤩 Carlos Vicente confident in Alavés' chances against Madrid
Alavés player Carlos Vicente analyzed the current state of the team and, in particular, the imminent league clash against Real Madrid at home, a match that presents itself as a great opportunity. Despite their position in the table, Vicente highlighted the team’s morale and their belief that they can achieve a good result against one of the best clubs in the world.
“It’s one of the best clubs in the world and in the league,” Vicente said about their opponent. The footballer described the match as “one of those games you dream of playing since you were a child,” considering it a “huge motivation” and a “reward for a lot of hard work.” This sense of excitement permeates the dressing room, which is preparing with the firm conviction of causing an upset at Mendizorroza.
Regarding the keys to overcoming the Madrid side, who arrive with some inconsistency after a recent defeat, the Alavés attacker was clear: “be very solid at the back so they have few chances, and be clinical up front.” He emphasized the need to be 100% focused, as these opponents “rarely forgive.” He also pointed out Mbappé as the player standing out above the rest at Real Madrid, hoping that on Sunday he won’t have his best day.
At a team level, Carlos Vicente gave a positive assessment, despite it being a “tough and complicated” season. He stressed that, with a bit more luck, they would deserve to have more points, but he expressed satisfaction with his evaluation of the squad: “The feeling is different from other years.” Therefore, the goal is to keep adding points to consolidate themselves in the upper-mid part of the table, without forgetting that “every match is a battle.”
Finally, the player did not hold back in praising the Alavés supporters, whom he considers unique and special. For the match against Madrid, he doesn’t need to ask anything extra from them, as their consistency and dedication are admirable. The connection with the fans is so strong that “people feel they belong to something bigger than just a football team,” which is a vital factor in facing these great challenges.
Gasperini previews Roma-Como: “Ndicka is available.”
Gian Piero Gasperini spoke at a press conference on the eve of Roma-Como, matchday fifteen of Serie A.
“It’s definitely a highly anticipated match. Como is now a sure thing, not a surprise. Not just because of the investments they’ve made, but because of the quality of their players, the way they play, and how they measure up against the best teams.”
“They’re undoubtedly one of the best teams; watching Como play is always a pleasure. I think tomorrow we’ll see a match with two teams trying to get the most out of their game, without too many subterfuges. It’s not a decisive match, but it’s very important. It determines the standings. It’s a very tight table, with many teams, including Como, so it’s a high-level match.”
Fabregas? “He’s certainly made a significant impact on Como, not only because of the very talented young players, but also because of their playing style. They’re definitely a team that prioritizes results through entertainment and skill, with some interesting variations, such as wingers playing inside. They often put several attacking players on the pitch, a bit like the Spanish school, playing on the team’s technique and dribbling ability.”
“Ndicka is staying; he’ll be there tomorrow; the rest will be seen in the upcoming matches. As for El Aynaoui, Morocco has appealed to FIFA, so we’re waiting for that. This is a league matchday where those who were able to play on Saturday and Sunday were able to use players involved in the Africa Cup of Nations, and we, who have to play on Monday, have been asked not to use them even though it’s the same matchday. We’re waiting for FIFA’s decision.”
“I’m very happy with how things are going. It’s been a very positive impact, beyond my wildest expectations. I came with the intention and hope of doing a good job, with the belief that this could be the right and ideal environment. Despite what was said about the difficult environment in Rome, and the fact that my arrival wasn’t universally welcomed, through hard work, performances, the team’s behavior, the players’ behavior, and the support of the fans, we’ve made progress.”
“We must be ambitious, always. Of course we have to improve; all teams, all clubs want to compete for the top spots in the league, primarily for financial reasons, but unfortunately that’s the case. Even we, to achieve those goals, which are so desirable to everyone, see that everyone is poisoned. We mustn’t be poisoned, but rather cohesive, united. Fans, team, club, and way of working. We mustn’t be arrogant, but very ambitious. And to be ambitious, we have to work hard.”
What is Roma missing to reach the top? Is it just a question of squad and players? “Let’s put it this way. All the ingredients are there, we just have to mix them well to bring them out. There’s the fans, there’s a wealthy club, there’s the possibility of building a stadium, there’s the possibility of developing a team. If there’s been any problems lately, it’s because to achieve certain objectives, we need to do more. It’s not bad luck; you have to make the right assessments, that’s fundamental. Evaluate everything carefully, improve, but then all the conditions for improvement are there.”
“It’s not like we had this much variety against Celtic. I’m very happy for Pisilli, Rensch had already provided some answers, El Aynaoui even more so, I’m happy for Ferguson, El Shaarawy has been here forever. It’s clear that as a team we need to play at the high levels we’re playing at in Europe and in the league.”
“Up to a certain level, that’s fine, but then we’ll have to raise the bar even further when we have more competitive, stronger matches and teams, to reach ever greater heights. We have some young players who are developing, so that’s good. Overall, the team has been a leader so far, both in the core group and those who came after. They’ve always had opportunities, everyone, to play, and everyone will have them to carve out spaces. But hierarchies will always exist.”
“Dybala? Let’s look at today’s training. He had a very positive moment, but like all important players, he has to be in great shape because today’s football doesn’t allow for precarious conditions. Physically, nervously, and motivationally. And you can see it in his performances, on the pitch, in training, and in the match. There’s no doubt about it when he’s in great shape.”
“Dybala and Pellegrini’s renewals? That’s just a financial situation; it’s not something I can get involved in. As for the Champions League clash with Como, it’s definitely a match for Europe. We need to first secure Europe, which isn’t easy, then get to the Champions League, which is more difficult.”
“Like in the Europa League, we’ve already earned 12 points, we’re in the top 24, and in February we’ll definitely be in the Europa League. Then, if we can avoid the playoffs, even better; things always have to be done piece by piece. And tomorrow is an important, though not decisive, step in the fight for Europe and possibly the Champions League.”
Inter Milan & Juventus Target Comments On Transfer Speculation: ‘Only Thinking About Cagliari’
Marco Palestra has moved to cool growing transfer speculation linking him with both Inter Milan and Juventus, insisting his attention is firmly fixed on Cagliari and their Serie A campaign.
Despite Cagliari’s 2-1 defeat against Atalanta, the right wing-back was among the standout performers.
Palestra admitted it was “a difficult match” against “one of the strongest players in the league.”
Palestra ‘Focused On Cagliari’ Amid Juventus & Inter Links
CESENA, ITALY – OCTOBER 10: Marco Palestra of Italy U21 during the UEFA Under21 EURO Qualifier betweenItaly U21 v Sweden U21 and ad hoc Arena im Ernst-Abbe-Sportfeld on October 10, 2025 in Cesena, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
The 2003-born wide man stressed that he is feeling increasingly confident, particularly without the ball.
Indeed, explaining that he is “improving a lot defensively” thanks to daily work on the training ground.
He credited head coach Pisacane and his teammates for helping him grow.
He said they “put me in the best conditions to express myself.”
Asked about his exchange with Pisacane at full-time, Palestra smiled and revealed that the coach joked about being asked about him constantly, something he sees as “a positive thing.”
However, the Atalanta-owned player was keen to keep his feet on the ground amid external interest. “I’m totally focused on Cagliari,” he said.
“I’m very happy here and I’m only thinking about achieving safety. Of course, the words are nice, but I don’t know what will happen in the future.”
Tare: Maignan happy at Milan, waiting for Nkunku and Gimenez
Milan director Igli Tare keeps the door open for Mike Maignan’s contract extension and trusts Christopher Nkunku and Santiago Gimenez, but refuses to rule out the signing of a new centre-forward in January.
LA SPEZIA, ITALY – APRIL 14: Igli Tare of SS Lazio looks on during the Serie A match between Spezia Calcio and SS Lazio at Stadio Alberto Picco on April 14, 2023 in La Spezia, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
“We’ve started with a fantastic group. Every day we work together, we realise it’s one of the best groups we’ve ever worked with,” Tare told DAZN before kick-off.
“They have determination and desire, and you can see it with results on the pitch. We know there’s work to do and we need consistency, but we are happy for now.”
With the January transfer window just around the corner, Tare was inevitably asked to provide updates on Milan’s negotiations, starting with the future of Maignan.
Tare on Maignan’s contract extension
ROME, ITALY – DECEMBER 04: Mike Maignan of AC Milan gives the team instructions during the Coppa Italia Round of 16 match between SS Lazio and AC Milan at Olimpico Stadium on December 04, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
The goalkeeper’s contract runs out in June and according to reports in Italy, he’s asked for a new €8m-a-year contract.
“We’ve never discussed the figures, I’ve never heard these numbers, but it’s easy to talk about Mike because he’s a fantastic lad, he’s a leader and a man of the group,” Tare replied.
“We are happy with him, he likes to stay at Milan and Milan want to extend. Today we have a game we want to win, then we’ll have time to discuss the matter.”
Former Chelsea striker Nkunku starts alongside Christian Pulisic in attack today, while Rafael Leao and Gimenez are injured.
Will Milan look for a new centre-forward in the winter transfer window?
“It’s hard to find players who can make a difference in the January window, but we’ll keep our eyes open to see if there’s something that can improve the situation of the team,” Tare said.
PARMA, ITALY – NOVEMBER 08: Christopher Nkunku of AC Milan runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Abdoulaye Ndiaye of Parma during the Serie A match between Parma Calcio 1913 and AC Milan at Stadio Ennio Tardini on November 08, 2025 in Parma, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“If there’s a chance, we’ll take it, but the team is improving. Nkunku sent important messages in the second half against Torino. Today it’s a big chance for him to show the real Nkunku we all expect.
“As for Gimenez, he has this physical problem; we are waiting for him, but he’s also an important player for this team.”
Milan are the joint-Serie A table leaders alongside Napoli with 31 points. The Partenopei will play later today, away at Udinese.
OM: Nayef Aguerd and Aubameyang included in squad to face AS Monaco ahead of AFCON 2025
Aubameyang
OM faces AS Monaco this Sunday, December 14, 2025. It's the final match for international players before they join their national teams for AFCON 2025 right after.
OM welcomes AS Monaco this Sunday to round off Matchday 16 of Ligue 1. After a draw against Toulouse (2-2) and a defeat at Lille (0-1), the Marseille side will need to put in a much stronger performance to stay in the race for the podium against direct rivals like PSG and Lens. Roberto De Zerbi, Marseille's head coach, has selected a 21-man squad for this clash at the Vélodrome.
While AS Monaco will be without Paul Pogba and Ansu Fati, OM must cope without Hamed Junior Traoré, Amine Gouiri, and Facundo Medina, who remain sidelined through injury. Amir Murillo, who was a doubt earlier in the week due to calf discomfort, is included in the squad, and Nayef Aguerd, despite suffering from a groin injury, is also expected to feature against the Monegasques.
Old Teammates Rival One Another For First Time As Genoa Host Inter Milan In Serie A
A long-standing friendship will take on a competitive edge at Marassi as Cristian Chivu and Daniele De Rossi meet for the first time on opposite benches in Genoa vs Inter.
As La Gazzetta dello Sport recalls, their bond was forged during their Roma days, stretching back to a memorable open training session at Trigoria that still “remains firmly planted in Chivu’s memory.”
Even when they became rivals on the pitch, the relationship endured, strengthened by mutual respect developed across 97 matches played together in the capital.
Now, however, the relationship enters new territory.
Genoa Vs Inter – Chivu & De Rossi Reunite In Fascinating Clash
Chivu steps into the Luigi Ferraris as Inter coach for the first time, a venue that has proven uncomfortable for the Nerazzurri in recent seasons.
Inter have not won away to Genoa since 2020, dropping points in each of their last three visits.
According to the Milanese daily, the Romanian has also worked to lighten a tense atmosphere shaped by six defeats across competitions.
Yet Chivu remains defiant.
He insists Inter “will not change who they are,” arguing that aside from isolated spells against Udinese and Napoli, his side have always shown “the desire to dominate.”
From the pitch to the touchline, some things, as De Rossi knows well, have never changed.
Tuttosport newspaper reported earlier this week that Frattesi’s agent Beppe Riso had resumed talks with Juventus as the Inter midfielder seeks more playing time in the second part of the season.
Frattesi seeks Inter exit
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 05: Davide Frattesi of Internazionale passes the ball under pressure from Dastan Satpayev of FC Kairat during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between FC Internazionale Milano and FC Kairat Almaty at Stadio San Siro on November 05, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The best Italy goal-scorer during the Luciano Spalletti era, Frattesi, will be glad to reunite with the ex-Azzurri boss, but negotiations between the two clubs might not be so easy.
Inter expert Pasquale Guarro and Gazzetta, in fact, claim that the Nerazzurri will likely ask for Khephren Thuram if Juventus knock on their door for Frattesi.
Inter eager to reunite the Thuram brothers
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 06: Marcus Thuram of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammate Lautaro Martinez during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Como 1907 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The move would allow the Nerazzurri to reunite the two Thuram brothers at San Siro, as Marcus has been playing for Inter since 2023.
According to Guarro, Khephren Thuram was already an Inter target last summer, alongside Roma’s Manu Kone and Atalanta’s Ederson.
NAPLES, ITALY – DECEMBER 07: Khephren Thuram of Juventus reacts during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Juventus FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on December 07, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
The Nerazzurri ended up signing 22-year-old Andy Diouf last summer, but the Frenchman has only collected 150 minutes of football on the pitch this season.
Boost For Inter Milan As Experienced Ex Manchester United Player Returns From Injury Ahead Of Supercoppa Italiana
Inter Milan have been handed some welcome news on the injury front as Matteo Darmian edges closer to a return in time for the Supercoppa Italiana.
Inter faced the double setback of losing both Hakan Calhanoglu and Francesco Acerbi during the Champions League defeat to Liverpool.
However, Cristian Chivu is finally seeing signs of recovery within his squad.
La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that while the situation remains complicated for one wing-back, “for another the skies are finally clearing.”
Indeed, drawing a clear contrast between Denzel Dumfries and Darmian.
Darmian Returns For Inter In Supercoppa As Dumfries Absence Continues
BARI, ITALY – AUGUST 16: Denzel Dumfries of Inter during Pre-Season Friendly match between FC Internazionale and Olympiacos FC at Stadio San Nicola on August 16, 2025 in Bari, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)
Italy Starlet Gets Nod Ahead Of French Forwards To Start In Inter Milan Trip To Genoa
With speculation teetering between Ange-Yoan Bonny and Francesco Pio Esposito for Inter Milan’s trip to Genoa, the latest reports suggest the young Italian will be given the nod.
Inter will be without Hakan Calhanoglu, forcing Chivu into a clear Plan B in midfield.
After testing Nicolò Barella in a deeper role, the coach has instead opted for Piotr Zielinski.
The Pole is judged to be the most natural replacement in the regista position.
His inclusion also allows Barella to conserve energy higher up the pitch, therefore avoiding excessive defensive sacrifice.
Zielinski will step in for the former Milan midfielder, who is sidelined alongside Francesco Acerbi.
This follows their recent withdrawals in the Champions League clash with Liverpool.
Acerbi, who raised the white flag minutes after Calhanoglu on Tuesday night, is expected to remain out for the time being.
Genoa Vs Inter – Pio Esposito Gets Nod In Attack
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 21: Francesco Pio Esposito of Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Sassuolo Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 21, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
In defence, La Gazzetta dello Sport, via FCInterNews, reports that Akanji is ready to feature centrally.
Indeed, with Bisseck on his right-hand side, as Inter rotate against Daniele De Rossi’s Genoa.
Chivu is still weighing up whether to retain Henrikh Mkhitaryan on the left of midfield and Luis Henrique on the right flank.
However, the biggest call concerns Lautaro Martinez’s strike partner.
This time, ThuLa may be broken up.
In the final training sessions, “it was Pio Esposito alongside the captain, not Bonny.”
Therefore suggesting the young Italian is now leading the race to start.
How Inter Milan Head Coach Aims To Use Disappointing Results To Motivate Team For Genoa Trip
Five days after the controversial defeat to Liverpool, Inter return to Serie A against Genoa, with Cristian Chivu and his side still carrying the emotional weight of a decision that continues to divide opinion.
According to Corriere dello Sport, via FCInterNews, the frustration inside the Nerazzurri camp has not fully faded, with Lautaro Martinez’s expression in the San Siro tunnel described as one that “did not go unnoticed,” revealing “all his anger at the perceived injustice.”
The captain was far from alone, as Nicolò Barella, Federico Dimarco and Alessandro Bastoni also struggled to hide their disappointment in the immediate aftermath.
Chivu Reshapes Liverpool Anger Into Motivation For Inter Trip To Genoa
MILAN, ITALY – OCTOBER 04: FC Internazionale coach Cristian Chivu looks on before the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Cremonese at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on October 04, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Cristian Chivu has spent the days since working carefully on that reaction, choosing not to suppress it but instead to reshape it.
The Inter coach has “placed his hands on that frustration,” the report explains, gradually transforming it into a controlled desire for redemption ahead of the trip to Genoa.
Marassi will offer little respite.
Genoa are in good mental and physical condition under new coach Daniele De Rossi, and the atmosphere promises to be intense.
Chivu’s message has been to strike the right balance: approach the match with hunger, but without forcing the issue, accepting the need to fight on the physical level if required.
In that context, Lautaro remains the reference point.
Depending on results elsewhere, the Genoa match could be either a necessity to stay attached to the summit or a chance to strengthen Inter’s position before attention later turns to Riyadh for the Supercoppa.
For now, however, all focus remains firmly on the Genoa clash.
Inter Milan Set Asking Price For Wantaway Italy Midfielder As Juventus Wait To Pounce
Inter Milan have placed a €35 million valuation on Davide Frattesi as Juventus continue to monitor the midfielder’s situation ahead of the January transfer window.
According to Tuttosport, via FCInterNews, there have already been “initial exploratory contacts” between Juventus officials and Frattesi’s representatives.
The former Sassuolo midfielder is appreciated by new Juve coach Luciano Spalletti, but any deal is considered complex, particularly mid-season.
The main obstacle is Inter’s stance on valuation.
Inter Set Price Tag For Frattesi Amid Juventus Interest
MILAN, ITALY – MARCH 30: Davide Frattesi of FC Internazionale looks on during the warm up prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Udinese at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on March 30, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
While the Nerazzurri are open in principle to granting Frattesi a move if the right conditions emerge, there will be no discounts.
The price tag is set at a minimum of €35m, a figure Juventus could attempt to structure through a loan.
A temporary move with an obligation to buy, triggered under specific conditions, is one potential outcome.
Inter are also said to be considering creative solutions, including the possibility of a wider deal involving Khephren Thuram.
However, Tuttosport is clear that Juventus have no intention of entertaining such a swap.
The French midfielder is viewed as a cornerstone of the club’s future project and is considered non-negotiable.
As a result, any move for Frattesi would have to be a straight financial operation.
Juventus are weighing their options, while Inter remain firm on their valuation as the January window approaches.
Juventus Head Coach Determined To Offer Second Chance To Inter Milan Fringe Player As Nerazzurri Eye Sensational Family Reunion
Davide Frattesi and Khephren Thuram are linked in a developing transfer scenario, with Juventus coach Luciano Spalletti keen on the Inter midfielder as the Nerazzurri quietly keep alive the idea of a Thuram family reunion.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Frattesi’s time in Milan appears to be nearing its end.
The Italy international has struggled for continuity under Cristian Chivu and is now increasingly viewed as expendable.
Indeed, with a sale expected either in January or, more realistically, next summer.
Juventus are among the most attentive suitors.
Frattesi has “many admirers in Turin,” starting with Spalletti.
Spalletti Wants Inter Outcast Frattesi At Juventus As Nerazzurri Eye Thuram Move
TURIN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 13: Khephren Thuram of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s third goal during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and FC Internazionale at Allianz Stadium on September 13, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
The coach appreciates his “electric and generous” style and believes he could fill a gap in the current Bianconeri midfield.
While Frattesi has delivered unforgettable moments at Inter, the paper notes that consistency has never truly followed.
Inter, for their part, would no longer oppose a Juventus approach.
This time, the Nerazzurri would be willing to open talks for a permanent transfer.
Indeed, provided there is room to manoeuvre elsewhere in midfield.
One name firmly on the radar is Khephren Thuram, whose profile fits both sporting and financial parameters.
The two operations would remain separate, but the symbolism is clear.
While Marcus Thuram is already a key Inter figure, the club are monitoring whether circumstances could one day allow both Thuram brothers to reunite in Nerazzurro.
Cristian Chivu Set To Put Faith In Brazil Duo As Wing-Backs For Inter Milan Test At Genoa
With injuries mounting and fatigue to manage, Cristian Chivu is set to rotate his Inter Milan side for the Serie A trip to Genoa, placing his trust in Luis Henrique and Carlos Augusto on the flanks.
The absence of Francesco Acerbi forces a reshuffle at the back, with Akanji expected to slot in between Bisseck and Bastoni.
In midfield, the key vacancy is left by Hakan Calhanoglu, who is targeting a return for the Supercoppa.
For now, it is Piotr Zielinski who is tipped to step in as playmaker.
The Corriere dello Sport noted that the Pole “has more chance of operating as regista than Barella.”
Genoa Vs Inter – Chivu To Hand Henrique & Augusto A Start
MONZA, ITALY – AUGUST 12: Carlos Augusto of FC Internazionale looks on during the Pre-season Friendly match between AC Monza and FC Internazionale at U-Power Stadium on August 12, 2025 in Monza, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
There is also a decision to be made on the left side of midfield.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan is still working his way back to full sharpness after injury and was visibly fatigued against Liverpool.
Therefore, opening the door for the fresher Petar Sucic to compete for a starting role.
On the wings, Federico Dimarco is expected to rest, allowing Carlos Augusto to start on the left.
On the opposite side, Luis Henrique is pushing towards what would be his fifth consecutive start.
However, Chivu could rotate him during the match.
However, Marcus Thuram and Ange-Yoan Bonny remain firmly in contention to partner Lautaro Martinez.
Manchester United have done well to groom players over the years, and it seems that they are looking to build for the future. The 17-year-old South American could be a long-term investment for them. Even though he might not be ready for first-team football, Manchester United could groom him into a star. It will be interesting to see if they submit an offer to get the deal done.
The young midfielder will certainly be attracted to the idea of moving to the Premier League. Manchester United are among the biggest clubs in the world, and they have an excellent track record when it comes to nurturing young players.
It will be interesting to see how the situation develops. Several other clubs are monitoring his progress, and it will not be easy for Manchester United to get the deal across the line.
They have brought in talented players in recent windows, and it is clear that they are looking to build a formidable team for the future. They need more quality in the middle of the park, and the 17-year-old could develop into an important first-team player for them with the right guidance. He could add control, composure and defensive cover to the side.
Playing in England could accelerate his development and help him fulfil his tremendous potential as well.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot is under a lot of pressure after a disappointing run this season.
He was backed with substantial funds during the summer window, and Liverpool were expected to defend their domestic crown. However, it has been a disappointing season for Liverpool so far. There have been rumours that the Netherlands manager could be shown the door soon.
Steven Gerrard to manage Liverpool?
They have been linked with multiple managers in recent weeks, including former club captain Steven Gerrard. According to Football Insider, the 45-year-old is “very keen” on taking over at Liverpool.
It will be interesting to see if the club is willing to make a change in the coming weeks. Gerrard has managed clubs like Aston Villa and Rangers in the past. However, he is still largely unproven, and it would be a huge gamble to appoint him as a successor to Slot.
The Dutch manager helped them with the league title last, and Liverpool might need to be more patient with him. They have shown improvement in the last couple of matches against Inter Milan and Brighton. They managed to win both matches without conceding a goal. It remains to be seen whether the Netherlands manager can turn it around.
Steven Gerrard on punditry duty during Liverpool 1-4 PSV (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
There is no doubt that the appointment of Gerrard could lift the spirits around the club and bring back the feel-good factor. However, Liverpool need a proven manager, and the former England International midfielder might not be ideal for them. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.
Liverpool will have to be practical when making the decision instead of being emotional. They have a talented squad, and a top-quality manager could take them back to the top of English football. If they decide to get rid of Slot, they should look to bring in someone who has won major trophies at big clubs.
Jobe Bellingham of Borussia Dortmund (Photo by Frederic Scheidemann/Getty Images)
There is no doubt that he has the talent, and Manchester United might be able to unlock his true potential. They have done well to groom young players in recent years.
The Red Devils could play a role in his development. The midfielder could be attracted to the idea of returning to England as well. Manchester United are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and the opportunity to play for them will be quite exciting for him.
The 20-year-old would be a future investment for Manchester United. If they can sign him for a reasonable amount of money, it could be a masterstroke for them. He has all the tools to develop into a top player with the right guidance.
It will be interesting to see if the German club is willing to give up on him and sell the player.
Pablo Barrios has been linked with a move away from Atletico Madrid, and Tottenham are keen on securing his signature.
According to Fichajes, they have offered €70 million for the 22-year-old midfielder, but he has a €120 million exit clause in his contract. It is highly unlikely that any club would agree to pay that kind of money for the young midfielder.
Tottenham need more control, composure and defensive cover in the middle of the park. The Atletico Madrid could midfielder could prove to be the ideal acquisition for them. He is young enough to improve further, and he is already well settled at the highest level. He has the technical attributes in the Premier League, and he could be an important player for him. They need someone who can control the tempo of the game from the deep, and the 22-year-old seems like the ideal acquisition.
It will be interesting to see how the situation develops. Tottenham need to keep improving the team if they want to compete with elite clubs. They will be hoping to finish in the top four and do well in the cup competitions. Adding more quality in the middle of the park will certainly help them finish the season strongly.
Pablo Barrios in action for Atletico Madrid (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
It remains to be seen whether they can convince the midfielder to join the club. He is enjoying his football at Atletico Madrid, and he is an important player for them. Moving to Tottenham might not be a priority for him right now. The outfit will have to convince the player of their project and offer him a lucrative contract to tempt him.
Serie A Liveblog: Super Sunday with Milan, Napoli, Inter and Juventus
This page will update live with the latest relevant news, no need to refresh the page!
Join us for all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s Serie A games, starting with Milan-Sassuolo before Udinese-Napoli, Fiorentina-Verona, Genoa-Inter and Bologna-Juventus.
We begin at 12:30 CET (11:30) GMT with the lunch-time match between Milan and Sassuolo.
The Rossoneri are the joint-Serie A table leaders alongside Napoli. The Partenopei will visit Nicolò Zaniolo’s Udinese later today at 15:00 CET.
Fiorentina host Verona at the same time, and it’s a big game in Florence as the Tuscans sit at the bottom of the table with no victories so far this season. The Gialloblù are the closest team in the standings as they have just three points more than La Viola.
Cristian Chivu will visit his former Roma teammate Daniele De Rossi at Marassi in Genoa-Inter at 18:00 CET, while Luciano Spalletti’s Juventus will travel to Bologna for a tricky fixture at the Dall’Ara.
Mikel Arteta confirmed bad news on Ben White after Saturday’s win over Wolves, revealing the defender has a hamstring injury.
Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images
Though Arsenal picked up the three points they needed from Saturday’s game against Wolves, the circumstances of the 2-1 victory were certainly far from ideal.
Despite playing against easily the worst team in the division this season, the Gunners didn’t even score, with both of their goals coming from own goals. Wolves’ goal at the other end was just their ninth of the entire league campaign.
But before those late goals and own goals, there was bad news in the first half as Ben White was forced out of the contest with an injury.
Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images
Speaking after the game, Mikel Arteta admitted White appears to have a hamstring problem, which will be assessed in the coming days.
“Obviously he hasn’t played a lot of minutes because of the previous knee issue that he had, then the moment he started to get some momentum he had to play a lot because we didn’t have any other solution,” Arteta said.
“We had to even risk Wilo [Saliba] today because probably it wasn’t the best call to play 90 minutes because we were buying tickets for another injury, but we don’t have anybody else. But yeah, that’s bad news for sure.
“It looks like a hamstring [injury], so we don’t know the extent of that, but probably tomorrow or the day after we’ll know more.”
Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images
Given White’s repeated injury setbacks throughout the last couple of years, another muscle injury is the last thing he needed. It’s also very bad news for Arsenal, ramping up the pressure on Jurrien Timber to keep playing every minute.
Timber himself had a minor injury problem this week, but it looks like he’ll now be required to start pretty much every game over the festive period.
Arsenal do have youth options in the form of Josh Nichols and Marli Salmon, both of whom have made their first-team debuts. But finding a good moment to rest Timber and introduce the youngsters without taking a significant risk won’t be easy.
Arsenal fans will be keeping their fingers crossed that White’s injury turns out to be nothing serious.
Christian Pulisic and Christopher Nkunku lead the Milan attack against Sassuolo, who reply with Alieu Fadera and Andrea Pinamonti.
It kicks off at 12:30 CET (11:30 GMT) at the Stadio Meazza in San Siro, Milan.
Milan vs. Sassuolo and Serie A Week 15 live on Football Italia
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 29: Gustav Isaksen of SS Lazio compete for the ball with Strahinja Pavlovic of AC Milan during the Serie A match between AC Milan and SS Lazio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s five Serie A games on the Liveblog.
Gimenez, Fofana, Leao are unavailable for the Rossoneri, but while the Mexican’s return date remains unclear, Leao and Fofana will be available for the Supercoppa Italiana Final Four next week.
Sassuolo have travelled to San Siro without the injured Romagna, Skjellerup, Pieragnolo, Turati, Berardi and Boloca and their coach Fabio Grosso, a 2006 Italy World Cup winner, is serving a one-game ban.
MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 29: Ruben Loftus-Cheek of AC Milan in action during the Serie A match between AC Milan and SS Lazio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Pulisic and Nkunku will start up front for Milan. Ruben Loftus-Cheek gets the nod in the middle of the park, pushing Samuele Ricci to the bench.
Cristian Volpato replaces the injured Berardi for Sassuolo.
Just four days later Brighton visited Anfield and once again the same midfield four started, this time with no midfielder at all on the bench.
Playing the only four fit senior midfielders for 90 minutes every game is massively unsustainable and so, sooner or later, something has to change.
When Nyoni is back in the team, it is time for him to play.
Liverpool’s midfield dilemma
With Wataru Endo injured and Florian Wirtz seemingly dedicated to playing a more advanced role, Nyoni is Slot’s only option if he wishes to keep the diamond and change out one of his midfield four.
The 18-year-old has played just 180 minutes for Liverpool this season, playing for the duration of both of the Reds’ Carabao Cup ties.
He is yet to come off the bench, but he will surely have to feature as a substitute soon if Slot wants to persist with his tactical changes.
Bad news for Algeria just a week before the kickoff of AFCON 2025. A referee has withdrawn from the tournament.
With only a week to go before the start of AFCON 2025, Youcef Gamouh has been forced to pull out of the competition. He was initially among the main referees selected for the tournament. The Algerian official is considered one of the continent’s top referees and had been chosen for AFCON 2025. His recent appointment by FIFA to officiate at the U20 World Cup, held in Chile between September and October, was a testament to his reputation on the international stage.
According to an official statement from the Algerian Football Federation, Youcef Gamouh is ultimately unavailable due to medical reasons. Without going into detail, the FAF sent him a message wishing him a speedy recovery on Saturday, confirming his absence from the continent’s premier tournament.
In sad news, Algerian referee Youssef Gamouh 🇩🇿 will miss the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations due to his battle with cancer…
We wish him a speedy recovery and send our best wishes for his health and strength during this difficult time 🙏🏼🤍 pic.twitter.com/O92L28EHPx
The signs are there that a Manchester City winger is improving but there is still a way to go
Watching Savinho play for Manchester City can be a frustrating experience. At times the Brazilian international can produce the spectacular. On other occasions, he flatters to deceive as his decision-making and end product let him down. Recently, Savinho has shown signs of improvement in his overall game, but he remains a work in progress as a player as his performances during the 25/26 season have shown.
Savinho is yet to establish himself as a Manchester City player.
Following Savinho’s promising debut season, he hasn’t taken the next step as a player. So far this season he has made 18 appearances in all competitions scoring one goal and has added two assists. The lack of end product in Savinho’s game has always been the knock on him as a player. As of yet he hasn’t improved this aspect of his game. At times his work rate off the ball has been lacking. All of this combined has seen Savinho fail to establish himself as a first-team regular at Manchester City this season.
There is also another issue that has seen Savinho fall down the pecking order at City. That is the rise of Jeremy Doku and Rayan Cherki. Heading into this season the opportunity was there for certain players to become Manchester City’s first-choice wingers and attacking players given the turnover in Pep Guardiola’s squad. So far, Rayan Cherki and Jeremy Doku have risen to the challenge. Savinho and Oscar Bobb have not. Neither has Omar Marmoush due to injury. But hope is not lost for Savinho given his recent displays.
Savinho’s recent performances have been promising.
Savinho’s performances against Sunderland and Real Madrid have shown that he is coming to grips with Pep Guardiola’s expectations of his wingers. He got back when necessary and helped his team defensively, and in possession, he kept the ball better. Although his decision-making needs improvement as seen by his late decision to shoot at the Bernabeu. But the base of Savinho’s game is improving. That is a positive sign and the hope is that the rest of Savinho’s game can improve. Manchester City do need it to given their reliance on a certain set of players so far this season.
Savinho has shown signs of improvement as a player in recent matches. But he isn’t the finished product as a player. The hope is that Savinho’s improvement continues and the frustrating side of his game becomes a distant memory. The sooner that can happen the better it will be for Pep Guardiola’s side and for the Brazilian winger.
‘He is our best technician’ – Franck Haise reacts to Tanguy Ndombélé’s return
Last weekend, Tanguy Ndombélé (28) played his first minutes since February. The Frenchman came off the bench for OGC Nice in a 1-0 defeat against SCO Angers. It has been a long way back for Ndombélé, who has been struggling with a pubalgia issue. Even prior to his last game, which came on 23rd February, the former Tottenham Hotspur man had been struggling with the issue and had seen his minutes limited as a result.
Having come off the bench against Angers, he then started against SC Braga in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday night. Post-match, Franck Haise reacted to Ndombélé’s long-awaited return to the pitch.
“On a technical level, he will always be up to the standard; he’ll be 50, and he will still be technical. But football is about being able to play at high intensity for as long as possible. He is our best technician. There is not only technique in life, but it is a good base,” said Haise in a press conference attended by Get French Football News.
Algeria: Amin Chiakha furious after being left out of the CAN 2025 squad
Amin Chiakha
On Saturday evening, Vladimir Petkovic, head coach of Algeria, unveiled his list of players called up for CAN 2025. Amin Chiakha refuses to believe he was simply forgotten.
The list of 28 Algerian players selected for CAN 2025 by Vladimir Petkovic sparked bitter disappointment for Amin Chiakha. At just 19 years old, the Vejle BK striker—who has netted 6 goals in 16 matches this season—was hoping to be part of Algeria's squad in Morocco. The decision to prioritize Redouane Berkane to strengthen the attack left Chiakha sidelined. The young forward is struggling to come to terms with his omission.
On Instagram, Chiakha voiced his frustration in a way that was indirect but unmistakable. A photo shows him kneeling, hands raised to the sky, accompanied by a mysterious code [3:125], referencing verse 125 of Surah Al-Imran. This Quranic passage speaks of divine protection in the face of enemy attacks, hinting that the young player feels he has been treated unfairly.
Arsenal were struck by injuries yet again on Saturday against Wolverhampton.
Ben White was forced off the pitch after just 30 minutes due to a hamstring injury suffered during a sprint. Myles Lewis-Skelly came on to replace him. Mikel Arteta commented on the situation:
Ben was already struggling with a knee issue. He was forced to play a lot because we had no alternatives. It's never good to take that risk, but we had no choice.
Arsenal are still without several key players: Gabriel Magalhães, Cristhian Mosquera, Kai Havertz, and Max Dowman remain unavailable. The good news for the Spanish coach: Gabriel Jesus returned to league action, making his first appearance since January after a lengthy anterior cruciate ligament injury.
Strasbourg predicted XI v Lorient: Emanuel Emegha out, Ben Chilwell benched
RC Strasbourg Alsace will face FC Lorient on Sunday afternoon, looking to get their Ligue 1 campaign back on track. They will do so without star striker and club captain Emanuel Emegha, who also missed the midweek win over Aberdeen and who will miss around six weeks of action, as confirmed by Liam Rosenior.
He is the major absentee for Strasbourg, who are also without Abdoul Outtara and Maxi Oyedele. In Emegha’s absence, Joaquín Panichelli, who started the season excellently but who has since endured a barren spell, will lead the line.
However, there may not be a place in the starting XI for Ben Chilwell. Le Racing may go with a backline of Ismael Doukouré, Mamadou Sarr, and Lucas Hogsberg this afternoon.
Strasbourg likely line-up v Lorient
Mike Penders; Ismael Doukouré, Mamadou Sarr, Lucas Hogsberg; Diego Moreira, Valentín Barco, Samir El Mourabet, Guéla Doué; Sébastien Nanasi, Joaquín Panichelli, Julio Enciso. (L’Éq)
‘Sometimes, you have to understand the frustration’ – Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté reacts to Mohamed Salah situation
Mohamed Salah’s (33) situation at Liverpool is uncertain. His explosive mixed zone interview last weekend, during which he revealed that his relationship with manager Arne Slot had broken down, called his future at Anfield into question.
Claiming to have been “thrown under the bus”, he openly admitted that the game against Brighton and Hove Albion could be his last. The Egyptian was not included in the matchday squad to face Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League in midweek, but following talks with Slot, he was involved in the 2-0 win over Brighton on Saturday. The forward came off the bench in the first half in what was his last match with Liverpool before heading for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
And his last in a Liverpool shirt. “I hope it won’t be his last match,” his teammate, Ibrahima Konaté (26) told Canal Pluspost-match.
‘I don’t know if it is Salah’s last match with Liverpool’ – Konaté
The Frenchman went on to evoke the Salah situation with the broadcaster. “I honestly don’t know if it is his last match. But honestly, personally, I don’t think so. Everyone saw how much Salah loves the club, how much the club loves him. Now, what has happened… sometimes you have to understand the player’s frustration, a player who has had such a career, has done so much,” said Konaté.
He continued, “Now, we won’t go into details about what was said internally. It has been sorted, given that he was included in the squad. He is a player that everyone loves, the manager loves, he loves the coach, too; everyone loves each other at this club. It is impressive.”
⛈️ Storm forces Valencia teams’ matches to be called off
The rainstorm hitting the Valencian Community has led to the suspension of several matches involving Valencia CF teams, including the reserve team and their youth categories.
The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) and the Valencian Community Football Federation (FFCV) have made this decision in light of the weather alert to ensure the safety of players and fans. The main confirmed suspension is the match that was to pit VCF Mestalla against Barça Atlètic, corresponding to Matchday 15 of the Second Federation, Group 3.
This crucial match was scheduled for Sunday afternoon at the Johan Cruyff Stadium. The black and white club made the postponement official after receiving direct communication from the RFEF.
Similarly, the Valencian youth football has also been affected. The match between VCF Juvenil A and Alboraya UD, part of the Honor Division Juvenile, Group 7, has been postponed. This match was to be played at the same time at the VCF Sports City.
The FFCV, extending preventive measures, announced the suspension of all official matches scheduled for this Sunday throughout the province of Valencia. As a result, VCF Femenino B was also unable to play their Matchday 11 commitment of the Third Women's Federation, Group VI, against CDFB L'Eliana.
Arsenal, Real Madrid Could Strike Major Blow to PSG for €150M-Rated Star
PSG have made a point of strengthening a French backbone in recent transfer windows, bringing in players such as Bradley Barcola, Desire Doue, and Lucas Chevalier.
Another France international could now be on the club’s shortlist. According to a recent report from TBR Football, Bayern Munich are pushing to tie Michael Olise to a new deal before the season wraps up as interest from around Europe continues to build.
Bayern are understood to be pleased with Olise’s development and are preparing a significant pay increase in hopes of keeping him. Liverpool have monitored the winger for a while, with Chelsea, PSG, and Barcelona also linked, although none are expected to make a move next summer.
Michael Olise Appears to Be on Three Teams’ Radars
(Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
TEAMtalk has indicated Real Madrid could be a potential future destination for Olise, with Liverpool and Arsenal also in the picture.
Fichajes reports that PSG would need to put up €150 million if the club looks to add another French player and makes a move for Olise. Despite that interest, Football Insider reporter Pete O’Rourke says Bayern Munich have no intention of letting Michael Olise leave anytime soon, even with PSG and other top clubs tracking the situation.
MORE PSG NEWS: PSG May Pull Off €60M Move for Chelsea, Dortmund Target
“I think it’s a real difficult deal to do for anybody, not just Manchester City, because Bayern Munich don’t want to lose to Olise,” O’Rourke said. “He’s under contract until 2029. There’s talk about preparing a new deal to try and ward off that interest and sort of end any speculation with a move away.
“I’m sure Bayern will be confident they can keep hold of Michael Olise. So yeah, it looks a real difficult deal to do for Man City and all Michael Olise’s other suitors as well, because he’s such a key man for Bayern now.
“Bayern won’t want to lose their top players and they’ll put a huge price tag on their side to scare off those potential interested clubs and as I said they’re preparing a new contract that they will hope that the Frenchman will sign to sort of end any speculation of a move away from Bavaria.”
He feels that Milan attacker will be able to unlock the true potential of the Swedish international. Gyokeres needs more service, and a quality wide player could certainly make a difference in the final third.
Leao will add pace, flair and unpredictability in the final third. He will help create opportunities for his teammates, and it remains to be seen whether Arsenal follow up on their interest with an official proposal to get the deal done.
According to Fichajes, they are looking at Rodrygo Goes from Real Madrid as well. It will be interesting to see which of the two players ends up at Arsenal eventually. They are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and the opportunity to join them will be attractive for both players.
Rafael Leao celebrates a goal for AC Milan (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, the Portuguese international has proven himself at Milan and for his country. This could be the right time for him to take on a new challenge. The move to the Premier League could be ideal for him. He has the physicality for English football, and he could be an important player for Arsenal.
The Gunners have the financial resources to convince Milan to sell the player, and it remains to be seen how the situation develops. He is highly rated across Europe, and Luka Modrić has recently labelled him as an “amazing” player. He has the ability to improve further, and moving to the Premier League could accelerate his development.
Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford has been linked with a move away from the club in recent months.
The 23-year-old has struggled for regular opportunities at the Premier League club, and he needs to play more often. Gianluigi Donnarumma is currently the first-choice goalkeeper at the club, and Trafford will need to leave if he wants to play every week.
James Trafford is in demand
According to reports, Tottenham, Newcastle and Aston Villa might be able to provide him with an exit route in the coming months.
It will be interesting to see where he ends up.
Keith Wyness told Football Insider: “He’s a quality keeper and I think there are a few clubs that are still unhappy in that position. But certainly those are the sort of the three clubs I think, yeah, Newcastle, Villa, Spurs are where I think Trafford may end up.”
Meanwhile, Aston Villa need a replacement for Emiliano Martinez, who has been linked with an exit from the club. There is no doubt that Trafford would be an excellent acquisition for them. He was outstanding for Burnley in the Championship last season, and he has the quality to succeed in the Premier League as well.
Newcastle could also use another goalkeeper, and Trafford could be the ideal long-term replacement for Nick Pope. It will be interesting to see which of the three clubs can get the deal done.
Inter’s internal conversations ahead of the winter break have centred on continuity rather than urgency. Sommer, now approaching the final year of his contract, remains trusted and professionally reliable, but the club are acutely aware that time eventually forces decisions. The brief being discussed is specific: an experienced goalkeeper capable of stepping straight into a title-contending side, offering security rather than development.
Vicario ticks those boxes. Now firmly established at Spurs, the Italy international has strengthened his reputation across multiple fronts. A Europa League triumph with Tottenham, Champions League exposure and senior international recognition have all elevated his standing. At 29, he represents a blend of maturity and longevity, aligning with Inter’s preference for goalkeepers who can deliver immediately while remaining viable for several seasons.
His admiration for Inter is no secret either. As a young goalkeeper, Vicario took inspiration from Samir Handanovic, whose influence defined an era at the club. That emotional connection, while not decisive on its own, adds a layer of context to Inter’s interest.
Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario Everton v Tottenham Hotspur, Spurs stance and contract reality
Despite the growing narrative, there are currently no formal negotiations. Inter have not approached Spurs, nor has Vicario’s camp been engaged in active discussions. Tottenham, for their part, are under no pressure. Vicario remains a core asset, tied to a contract that runs until 2028, and valued accordingly.
Spurs invested around £17 million when they signed him from Empoli in 2023, and any departure would almost certainly require a significant premium. From Tottenham’s perspective, Vicario has delivered consistency and leadership, attributes not easily replaced. Selling would only be considered on their terms.
That reality shapes Inter’s approach. The club are unwilling to overextend financially, particularly for a position that, while important, must be balanced against other squad needs. Internally, there is hope that a deal could be structured closer to the €20 million mark, though that would still represent a healthy profit for Spurs.
Inter strategy shaped by patience
Inter’s wider strategy is rooted in timing rather than aggression. Sommer continues as the undisputed first choice and will do so through the current campaign. His professionalism and reliability have been vital, especially during demanding stretches of the season. The club have no intention of forcing him out prematurely.
Behind him, Josep Martinez remains a secondary option, with rotation expected during congested periods. However, the longer-term picture suggests potential movement. Should Sommer depart and another senior goalkeeper arrive, Martinez may seek regular football elsewhere, a scenario Inter are conscious of when mapping their future.
This layered approach explains why Vicario is viewed as a priority target rather than an immediate solution. Inter want clarity before committing, both financially and structurally.
Vicario interest could influence outcome
One variable that could eventually shift the balance is Vicario himself. His appreciation for his time at Spurs is genuine, yet the idea of returning to Italy, particularly to Inter, carries personal significance. Relationships already formed with several Inter players through the national team further soften the ground.
Should Vicario express a clear desire to move, it could open the door to negotiations that might otherwise stall. Even then, any deal would require careful alignment between all parties.
For now, Vicario remains a Spurs player, Sommer remains Inter’s number one, and discussions remain exploratory. But succession planning rarely announces itself loudly. Inter are laying foundations quietly, and Vicario’s name continues to resurface for good reason.
Barcelona forward’s chances of staying at the club reducing day by day: Here’s why
Robert Lewandowski has found himself in a precarious position at Barcelona this season.
After a tremendous campaign last season, Lewandowski had a slow start to the new one. Injuries stalled his progress, forcing Hansi Flick to employ Ferran Torres as the main striker.
When Lewandowski returned to full fitness, he didn’t disappoint and started in consecutive matches. But his form soon fell, which has once again put Ferran back into the spotlight.
With his contract expiring at the end of the season, there is still no conclusive update on Lewandowski’s future at the club.
Lewandowski’s chances are dwindling
However, a recent report from Diario SPORT has offered an update on the future of the Polish international.
The report points out how Barcelona have seen a noticeable decline in Lewandowski’s form, especially in recent matches.
Therefore, the Pole’s chances of staying at Barcelona and signing a new contract extension are dwindling day by day.
Lewandowski may have to settle for a Barcelona exit next summer. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
This likely means Lewandowski may have to see out his contract at Barcelona at the end of the season and find a new adventure elsewhere.
The player, for his part, loves life in Barcelona and wants to stay at all costs. But the club are wary about his age and physical decline. He will, after all, turn 38 by the start of next season.
Keeping these factors in mind, Barcelona are ready to enter the market for a new striker, who can serve as a long-term replacement for Lewandowski.
Dusan Vlahovic was considered a potential target last summer, but the club are no longer interested in the Juventus striker after he scored just six goals in 17 matches this season.
Ibrahima Konaté's contract is nearing its expiration, and Liverpool still doesn't know whether he'll extend his stay or depart this summer.
According to CaughtOffside, the Reds already have three candidates in mind to fill his shoes if Konaté leaves the club: Jérémy Jacquet (20, Stade Rennes), Marc Guéhi (25, Crystal Palace), and Nico Schlotterbeck (26, Borussia Dortmund).
🔴 French defender to replace Ibrahima Konate at Liverpool and become ‘world class’ under Arne Slot, according to a new report pic.twitter.com/17xHEHPv9H
For now, Liverpool's priority is to extend Konaté's contract, but the club is bracing itself in case the French international opts for a move away. Starting January 1, 2026, he will be free to negotiate with other clubs and can even sign a pre-contract.
Tottenham had been closely monitoring Ademola Lookman ahead of the January transfer window, but the club has now decided to drop their pursuit.
The Spurs showed interest in the Nigerian forward last summer and even proposed a loan deal, but Atalanta insisted on a permanent transfer. Since then, Lookman's future has remained uncertain, with strong links suggesting a possible move to Galatasaray.
Tottenham have shortlisted Rodrygo & Kenan Yildiz as alternatives to Ademola Lookman as Thomas Frank looks to add a goalscoring forward.
The Spurs have now shifted their focus. Their attention is on more high-profile targets, such as Rodrygo (Real Madrid) or Kenan Yildiz (Juventus). While Lookman remains an option, Tottenham appear ready to step up their pursuit of attacking reinforcements.
Arab Cup 2025: When and where to watch the semi-finals ?
Arab Cup 2025: Dates, kick-off times and broadcast channels for the semi-finals
Arab cup 2025 / @x.com
The semi-finals of the 11th edition of the Arab Cup, currently underway in Qatar, will take place on Monday, December 15, 2025. The opening clash will see Morocco face off against the United Arab Emirates, before a highly anticipated showdown between Saudi Arabia and Jordan, scheduled three hours later.
After an intense quarter-finals stage, four national teams have punched their tickets to the last four: Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Morocco, and the United Arab Emirates.
The Arab Cup will culminate on Thursday, December 18, with the grand final at Lusail Stadium. The kick-off is set for 16:00 GMT, promising a gala evening to crown the new Arab champion.
Here is the schedule for the Arab Cup 2025 semi-finals:
Monday, December 15, 2025
Morocco vs United Arab Emirates– Kick-off at 14:30 GMTVenue: Khalifa International Stadium
Saudi Arabia vs Jordan– Kick-off at 17:30 GMTVenue: Al Bayt Stadium
Arab Cup broadcast channels
The tournament will enjoy extensive television coverage. All matches will be broadcast live on the following channels: Saudi Sports, beIN Sports, Al Kass 1, Dubai Sports, Abu Dhabi Sports 1, Kuwait Sports, and Sharjah Sports.
‘They’re a top team in this league’ – Spurs need right attitude and application against Manchester United says Ho
Tottenham Hotspur head coach Martin Ho says that his side must go into this afternoon’s fixture against Manchester United with the right attitude and application.
The Lilywhites are flying high in this season’s Barclays Women’s Super League and victory at The Progress With Unity Stadium would see Spurs leapfrog their fourth-placed opponents.
When speaking in the pre-match press conference, Spurs boss Ho acknowledged Manchester United’s qualities and highlighted the importance of his side having the right attitude and application.
“They’re a team competing for the title,” Ho said. “They have world class players and they’re playing on the big stages of the Champions League. They’re a top team in this league. We know it’ll be a tough test, but we need to turn up with the right attitude and apply ourselves correctly.”
Spurs end the calendar year with back-to-back trips to Manchester United; the North Londoners also face The Red Devils in the Subway Women’s League Cup quarter-finals next weekend. The double-header is huge for Spurs but Ho doesn’t see it as ‘season-defining’.
He said “I don’t think these games define our season – not before Christmas, anyway. We approach both games individually. First the league game, which is our full focus, then we follow that with the cup game afterwards. We may need to do things a little differently there, be a bit more creative and innovative in how we set-up.
“I’ve no doubt the players are up for these games – these are the ones they want to play in. When you’re facing top players and a team competing for the title, you want to show you are competing at that level.”
Spurs are juggling long-term injuries with Jess Naz, the latest player to be sidelined after sustaining an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury. Ho believes that his side can remain competitive at the highest level without some important players.
He said “We can be competitive – we always will be. Whether we have 20 players or 12, we’ll go into the game organised and effective. I have full faith in the group. It’ll take everything from us, but we’ll go in with confidence and the belief we can win.”
Tottenham Hotspur’s Barclays Women’s Super League fixture at Manchester United kicks-off at 2.30pm.
Crystal Palace predicted line-up vs Man City (3-4-2-1)
Crystal Palace return to Selhurst Park on Sunday afternoon for a blockbuster Premier League clash against Manchester City.
Palace head into the game with confidence high and momentum building under manager Oliver Glasner. They will hope to reclaim their fourth-place berth on the league table.
The Eagles come into the contest on the back of three consecutive wins in all competitions, including a convincing 3-0 Conference League victory away to Shelbourne.
On Thursday night, Glasner had the luxury of managing minutes ahead of one of the most challenging domestic assignments.
Palace remain just five points behind City in the Premier League table.
Having already toppled Pep Guardiola’s side in last season’s FA Cup final, the South Londoners will believe they are capable of producing another statement performance.
Match Preview
Selhurst Park stages a mouth-watering rematch of last season’s FA Cup final, a day etched into Palace folklore when they secured their first-ever major trophy.
Much has changed since then, but Palace’s resilience and identity under Glasner remain intact.
The Eagles have lost fewer league games than any side, except Arsenal, this season.
They are firmly back on track after recovering from successive defeats to Strasbourg and Manchester United.
Christantus Uche opened the scoring in Thursday’s comfortable European win, while Eddie Nketiah continued his excellent form with a goal and an assist.
Yeremy Pino was also on the scoresheet, and Palace could have scored more after racing into a three-goal lead before half-time.
At home, Palace have been frustratingly hard to beat, recording four draws and two wins, suffering just one home defeat all campaign, a narrow loss to Man United.
However, Man City arrive in formidable form, having won four on the trot, including a pulsating 5-4 win over Fulham and a 2-1 victory against Real Madrid.
City are known for picking up steam in the second half of the season. They are gradually building excellent momentum and will take the fight to Palace.
Match Stats
The Eagles are unbeaten in their last three matches against Guardiola’s side in all competitions at Selhurst Park, including a 2-2 league draw last season.
Glasner’s side will look to once again frustrate City’s rhythm, but history is not on their side.
They have failed to beat City in their last seven attempts, losing four times in that run (D3).
The South Londoners have not defeated City at Selhurst Park since April 7, 2015.
Palace have not beaten City since 2021, when goals from Wilfried Zaha and Conor Gallagher sealed a 2-0 win at the Etihad Stadium.
Team News
Palace fans are anxiously awaiting confirmation over Jean-Philippe Mateta’s availability, but Glasner is optimistic the ‘confident’ striker will be fit despite his recent knee issue.
Daniel Munoz remains sidelined until 2026 with a knee injury, meaning Nathaniel Clyne is expected to start at right wing-back once again.
Tyrick Mitchell should reclaim his place on the left, while Marc Guehi, Chris Richards and Maxence Lacroix continue to form a watertight back three.
In midfield, Adam Wharton and Daichi Kamada were withdrawn at half-time against Shelbourne as a precaution and are expected to start here.
Dean Henderson will return in goal after Walter Benitez featured in Europe.
Further absentees include Cheick Doucoure, Chadi Riad, Rio Cardines and Caleb Kporha, while Jaydee Canvot remains a doubt through illness.
Crystal Palace predicted line-up (3-4-2-1)
Dean Henderson; Chris Richards, Maxence Lacroix, Marc Guehi; Nathaniel Clyne, Adam Wharton, Daichi Kamada, Tyrick Mitchell; Yeremy Pino, Eddie Nketiah; Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Real Madrid: Good news arrives for Franco Mastantuono
Franco Mastantuono
At Real Madrid, there’s good news for Franco Mastantuono.
Since November 1, despite several stints on the bench, Franco Mastantuono hasn’t featured on the pitch. Now fully recovered from his groin injury, the Argentine still needs to regain peak physical condition to convince Xabi Alonso. The arrival of the Copa del Rey could offer him his first minutes since his setback.
🚨 ALERTE INFO : Franco Mastantuono est désormais totalement remis de sa blessure. 💪⚪️
✅Il est annoncé à 100 % de ses capacités et dispose de fortes chances de débuter demain face à Alavés. 🔜⚽
According to information from AS, Mastantuono is expected to have the chance to make an impact against Talavera in the round of 32—a stage of the competition usually reserved for rotation players in the early rounds. On top of that, Brahim Díaz’s departure for AFCON 2025 reduces the competition for places, and a three-forward attacking system was recently tried out against Manchester City.
Finally, the stats are on his side: with Mastantuono in the starting lineup, Real Madrid have won all nine matches he’s played, compared to a more mixed run of results since his injury.
Three ways Xabi Alonso can improve his team to turn the situation around at Real Madrid
Xabi Alonso’s days at Real Madrid appear numbered if the team’s form continues to follow the same trend, and there is a serious need to improve results quickly.
Reports suggest the game against Deportivo Alaves could be the manager’s final game in his new position, although a lot will depend on the result and the manner of its infliction.
From Alonso’s point of view, however, there is little time, and many a problem to fix for the side have looked dysfunctional for a while now. The situation, however, is not hopeless, for there appear to be a few straightforward ways to help them recover their form.
Madrid Universal brings you three ways Xabi Alonso can turn Real Madrid’s fortunes around.
Defend set-pieces better
One factor that closely correlates with all of Real Madrid’s defeats this season is the poor defending from set-pieces.
Barring the loss to Celta Vigo in La Liga, all three big game defeats for Los Blancos this season have been dictated by set-piece goals for the opposition – something that should not be happening at the level that Real Madrid operate at.
Real Madrid must improve defensively. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Against Atletico Madrid, Real Madrid conceded from three set-pieces in what was arguably their worst showing of the season.
Alexis McAllister scored a header off a set-piece to inflict the blow on Real Madrid in the team’s defeat to Liverpool, while Manchester City also scored their equaliser against Real Madrid off a set-piece.
The team’s defending against set-pieces, thus, requires a serious revamp, especially in terms of marking the right men. After all, it was almost comical watching Arda Guler marking Erling Haaland given the height difference between the players.
Attack from the right-wing
What stood out in Real Madrid’s game against Manchester City was Rodrygo’s performance and goal scored from the right wing, and it was clear that the Blues did not anticipate that coming from a long way out.
With Vinicius Jr starting on the left flank and Kylian Mbappe also more comfortable drifting in from that side, teams have often overloaded their defensive resources on the left side to curb Real Madrid’s attack.
The predictable nature of Real Madrid’s game and buildup from the left flank, needless to say, does not help their case and helps the opposition plan better, given that they know exactly where the attacks are arriving from.
Los Blancos, thus, must look to attack equally from both wings to keep opposition defences under uncertainty. Rodrygo’s return to form and Franco Mastantuono’s return, needless to say, will help the team in that respect.
Penalty box poacher
Kylian Mbappe has well and truly embraced the goalscoring responsibility at Real Madrid this season and is scoring goals for fun. What the team are lacking, however, is a genuine aerial threat given that Mbappe usually scores grounded goals.
Real Madrid can’t be overly reliant on Mbappe. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
The arrival of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alvaro Carreras gives the side two potent full-backs who can deliver lethal crosses. However, there is no player who can capitalise on such chances with a predator’s instinct.
Mbappe may not provide an aerial threat, but Endrick has that potential in him, as seen in his cameo against Manchester City, where he came close to scoring a header that clipped the crossbar. Vinicius Jr. too, in fact, had two decent headers.
Real Madrid have historically been clinical in the air with lethal aerial threats in the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, and Karim Benzema, and it is time they look to unlock that facet of their game once more.
Harvey Elliott FINALLY has a place at Arne Slot’s Liverpool
Harvey Elliott arrived at Liverpool as one of the most exciting prospects in English football, and he lived up to the hype.
Under Jurgen Klopp, Elliott became a regular in the Reds’ first team. Now the two-time Premier League champion is struggling to make the bench at Aston Villa.
When the deal was done it looked certain that Elliott’s permeant exit was a foregone conclusion but now he looks Anfield bound once again, and there is a place waiting for him in Arne Slot’s side.
Elliott set to return to Liverpool
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Aston Villa have confirmed to Liverpool that Elliott will not be allowed to meet the terms of the clause that would obligate them to make a deal permanent and talks are now underway to see the England U21 international return in January.
This once unlikely outcome won’t have factored into Slot’s thinking when planning for the season, but if Elliott does return to Merseyside he will more than likely be there for the remainder of the season.
Players are not allowed to play for more than two clubs in the same season and Elliott played came on as an injury time substitute for Liverpool against Newcastle earlier in the season, meaning he’s already played for two sides.
Although there was clearly no place for Elliott in Slot’s side at the start of the season, recent developments have opened up a spot that would be perfect for the former Fulham man.
Slot’s new diamond formation
A run of poor performances and a very public falling out with Mohamed Salah have led Slot to seemingly abandon his preferred 4-3-3 formation in favour of what appears to be a 4-4-2 diamond shape, with four midfielders being deployed behind a strike partnership.
Elliott never found his place on the right wing under Slot, with the majority of his cameos last season seeing him feature in the midfield.
Although he wasn't able to nail down a starting position in the Reds’ title winning campaign, the addition of a fourth spot in midfield and a lack of real depth in the position could see Elliott finally win a place in Slot’s plans.
If Liverpool continue to utilise the four-man midfield Elliott is bound to get game time, even if it is just off the bench.
With hopes of earning a place in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the World Cup fading after a so-far disappointing season, Elliott will be extra motivated to prove himself to the Reds’ boss.
Today’s Papers – Rejected offer to buy Juventus, Napoli and Milan defend the top spot
La Gazzetta dello Sport
We play for the top spot
Sunday with the big sides: Napoli and Milan to remain at the top
Traps for the leaders: Allegri with Nkunku-Pulisic, Conte relies on Neres
Offer rejected
Elkann to Tether: ‘Juve are not for sale.’
‘History and value of the club are not for sale.’ The value is too low. Spalletti in Bologna (20.45), he must win to climb.
Inter idea, the two Thurams
Chivu at Genoa’s home, thinking of Pio and Lautaro
Golden Vlasic
Toro restart with a win. Cairo: ‘Fundamental victory.’
Lazio win down to ten men
Incredible: two players sent off, then Noslin scores.
Corriere dello Sport
Who gets it wrong goes down
Hot Sunday in the race for the title
Milan begin at lunchtime, then Napoli, Inter and Juve: 360 minutes waiting for the Supercoppa
Pulisic and Nkunku up front. Max: ‘Napoli and Inter still favourites.’
Conte chases the 11th win, Lobotka returns and goes to the bench. There’s Spinazzola.
Chivu hits back: ‘They said we were finished.’ Zielinski and Bisseck in.
Space for Dallinga. David with Yildiz. Lucio: ‘I told DeLa to get Italiano.’
‘History is not for sale.’
Elkann holds Juventus tight: ‘It’s a love lasting one century.’
Exor’s CEO says no to Tether’s offer: ‘Juventus have been my family’s club for 102 years. We’ll continue to support the team and look to a winning future.’
Lazio feat: victory down to nine men.
Tuttosport
Petrachi, happy debut as a director: Toro return to winning ways with Cremonese
Vlasic saves Baroni
Gobbo pride
Elkann strongly confirms he won’t sell Juve, Spalletti demands a performance in line with history
Exor’s CEO has rejected the offer from Tether. John: ‘Our values are not for sale.’ The coach: ‘I’m happy to feel his passion, now it’s up to us to honour the past and work to build the same or a better future.’ David towards the confirmation. Cautious with Bremer, but…
Frattesi for Thuram: Inter try the coup
Trap for Chivu in Genoa today after the defeat with Liverpool: ‘They said we were finished, but we’re still here. Too many labels, I don’t like it.’
Milan-Napoli: head-to-head with Ryiad on the horizon.
Allegri defends the leadership against Sassuolo without Leao. Conte still in emergency in Udine. On Thursday, the Supercoppa semifinal.
Nine-man Lazio beat Parma! Dea climb back with Scamacca
Joshua Zirkzee remains Roma’s top target to strengthen their attack, but negotiations are complex.
For this reason, sporting director Massara is also exploring other options, with a close eye on Serie A.
According to reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport and Il Messaggero, a new name on the Giallorossi’s mind is Albert Gudmundsson, Fiorentina’s Icelandic striker.
His situation at Fiorentina could lead him to seek a new position, especially given the team’s delicate position in the league table. Roma’s plan is to bring him on loan.
Gudmundsson has long been a popular player, so much so that Roma had already pursued him last summer.
His versatility, which allows him to play both as a center forward and as an attacking midfielder, makes him an attractive prospect.
The Catalans, after all, were looking for someone who could serve as a long-term replacement for the ageing Robert Lewandowski.
Vlahovic, to that end, had emerged as the ideal candidate due to his style of play and what he can offer inside the box.
Barcelona no longer interested in Vlahovic
However, a fresh report from Diario SPORT has claimed that Barcelona are no longer interested in Dusan Vlahovic.
The report suggests that the club had included him on its shortlist to bolster the attack, but the player’s performance this season has sown many doubts in the club.
This is hardly surprising as the forward has scored only 6 goals in 17 matches with Juventus this season. In addition, he suffered an injury that will keep him out for three months.
Vlahovic’s form at Juventus has been subpar this season. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Vlahovic’s goalscoring record wasn’t up to the standards Barcelona were looking for anyway. Therefore, the club have decided to abandon their pursuit of the Serbian forward.
Vlahovic’s overall record at Juventus is not particularly eye-catching either, with the striker scoring 64 goals in nearly 200 competitive appearances.
If we average this 40 per season, Vlahovic has scored about 12 goals per season for Juventus, which is below par for someone who is expected to be world-class.
With Vlahovic no longer an option, the onus will be on Barça to comb through the market for a replacement.
The club have been linked with a move for Borussia Dortmund’s Serhou Guirassy, but his form has died down considerably this year. So it will be interesting to see how the club go about their business when it comes to finding the right number nine.
Man United keen on signing “really good” Premier League sensation on Chelsea radar
Manchester United are interested in signing the Sunderland midfielder Noah Sadiki.
The 20-year-old has done quite well since joining Sunderland, and he has attracted the attention of Chelsea as well. According to Sacha Tavolieri, Manchester United wanted to sign the player at the start of the season, and they initiated contact as well. However, they were not able to get the deal done.
Man United eyeing Noah Sadiki
They are keeping tabs on his progress, and they could look to make a move for him in future. Sunderland paid £15 million for him, and they will look to demand a premium for him if any club comes calling. It is no secret that Manchester United need more physicality and defensive cover in the middle of the park. Sadiki could be the ideal fit for them. He has the physicality and technical attributes for English football, and he has done quite well in the Premier League. Manager Regis Le Bris has labelled him as a “really good player”.
Noah Sadiki of Sunderland reacts during the Premier League match between Sunderland and Arsenal. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
He is quite young, and he will only improve with coaching and experience. Sadiki could develop into a player for Manchester United. It remains to be seen whether they follow up on their interest with an official proposal at the end of the season. Sunderland are fighting for a respectable position in the table, and they will not want to sell a key player in the middle of the season. Any move might have to wait until the summer transfer window.
Chelsea are looking to add more quality in the midfield as well, and they will be an attractive destination. It will be interesting to see if they can beat Manchester United to his signature.
Sadiki should join a club where he will get to play regularly.
Liverpool: Ibrahima Konaté points to Mohamed Salah's next club
Mohamed Salah
Will Mohamed Salah pack his bags and leave Liverpool in January? Ibrahima Konaté has shared his thoughts on the matter.
Questioned about Mohamed Salah’s future after the 2-0 win over Brighton, Ibrahima Konaté revealed that the Egyptian winger has not played his last game for Liverpool on Saturday. While Salah is set to join his national team for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, uncertainty still surrounds his future, especially after a recent media appearance that led to him being left out of the Champions League clash against Inter Milan (1-0) last Tuesday.
Mo Salah now sits third on the all-time Premier League goal involvement list, behind only Wayne Rooney and Alan Shearer.
Still, Konaté is confident that Salah will remain at Liverpool until the end of the season. "Personally, I don’t think Mo Salah has played his last game for Liverpool. You’ve seen how much he loves this club. He’s a player everyone adores, the coach loves him—and he loves the coach too—and everyone at this club loves him," said the French centre-back.
Premier League: Mohamed Salah surpasses Wayne Rooney
Premier League: Mohamed Salah surpasses Wayne Rooney
Even when facing challenges, Mohamed Salah knows how to make history in the English top flight. The Liverpool forward became, on November 13, the most decisive player in Premier League history with a single club.
Coming off the bench against Brighton, the Egyptian star delivered an assist in the Reds' 2-0 victory at Anfield. This contribution brought his Premier League tally for Liverpool to 277 goal involvements, split between 188 goals and 89 assists.
Another Mohamed Salah milestone ✅
He now holds the Premier League record for the most goal involvements for one club! pic.twitter.com/7nwSOdcYwM
Salah thus surpasses Wayne Rooney, the former record holder with Manchester United (276 goal involvements). At 33, the Pharaoh further cements his legendary status at Anfield.
🥐 Pressure mounts on Xabi, Barça top... 5️⃣ stories to start your day
The day of Sunday, December 14, 2025, is marked by the intense battle for leadership in the major European leagues and the crowning of a champion in the American continent.
Xabi Alonso takes a gamble in Vitoria, while FC Barcelona has already done its part the day before, reaffirming its candidacy for the title. In Germany and Italy, giants like Bayern Munich and Inter Milan seek to add three points to stay at the top. Finally, the great expectation of the night is centered in Mexico, where the champion of the Apertura 2025 is about to be crowned.
Real Madrid visits Mendizorroza with much at stake
🎙️ Periodista: ¿Hablas con Álvaro Arbeloa de la posible destitución?
🗣️ Xabi Alonso: "Yo creo que Álvaro en un futuro puede ser entrenador del Real Madrid, no hemos hablado absolutamente nada de lo que tú me has preguntado."
A crucial commitment for Real Madrid. Xabi Alonso's team travels to the Basque Country to face Deportivo Alavés at Mendizorroza. A match where the whites need to secure three points to stay in the fight for LALIGA and where Xabi Alonso's position is at stake. A loss would almost mean a direct dismissal for the man from Tolosa.
Barça doesn't fail: crucial victory against Osasuna
FC Barcelona did its job yesterday, Saturday, December 13, by securing a valuable 2-0 victory against Osasuna. The win, achieved with a brace from Raphinha, allows the Catalan team to put pressure on the top of the table and remain the leader.
Bayern wants to reaffirm its leadership
#Anzeige | 𝑰𝑻'𝑺 𝑴𝑨𝑻𝑪𝑯𝑫𝑨𝒀 💫#Packmas gegen den 1. FSV Mainz 05. 👊🔥
Nach unserem letzten Heimspiel erwartet euch ein besonderes, vorweihnachtliches Highlight in unserer Allianz Arena. 🏟🎄
The Bundesliga offers another main event with the clash between the leader, Bayern Munich, and Mainz 05 at the Allianz Arena. The Bavarians want to defend their leadership in a vital match not only for the three points but also to gauge the form of the German champion in the final stretch of the year.
Serie A, red hot.
One final home game together before the holiday festivities ☃️
In Italy, Serie A presents an attractive match for the interests of the top of the table. Beyond the duels of Milan or Napoli, Inter Milan visits Genoa. The Nerazzurri need a victory to stay in the race for the Scudetto and keep up with their contenders.
All eyes in America are on the Nemesio Diez Stadium, where the second leg of the Apertura 2025 Final of Liga MX is being played. After a narrow advantage obtained by Tigres in the first leg, Toluca is obliged to make a comeback at home, the "Inferno."
Roma’s transfer market is in full swing, and the team has no intention of sitting idly by.
Following Gasperini’s message in Glasgow, sporting director Massara decided not to return with the team on Friday, but to fly to London to meet with several agents.
The hottest name on the table is Zirkzee, although contacts with Manchester United will intensify in the coming days.
The Giallorossi have received the OK from the Friedkins, but the negotiations are likely to be a long one, as the Red Devils don’t want to part with the player before mid-January, when they will lose Mbeumo and Diallo to the Africa Cup of Nations.
Zirkzee, acquired from Bologna for €60 million in the summer of 2024, is not unsellable, but Roma faces an initial €50 million request that appears difficult to meet.
The proposed solution, reports Il Messaggero, would be a loan with an obligation to buy, set at €40 million, tied to Champions League qualification.
This is a goal within reach for Gian Piero Gasperini’s team, which after four months of the season sits in fourth place, three points behind Inter and four points behind the top two, AC Milan and Napoli.
Should Serie A end today, Roma would therefore return to Europe’s top club after seven seasons in Europe and the Conference League.
CAN 2025: here is the target set for Eric Chelle in Nigeria
Interview
CAN 2025: here is the target set for Eric Chelle in Nigeria
The Nigerian Football Federation has set the bar high for Eric Chelle. The Super Eagles' head coach will be expected to lead Nigeria to the final of the 2025 AFCON, scheduled to take place in Morocco.
The announcement came from NFF president, Ibrahim Gusau, who confirmed that this ambition was clearly communicated to the coach. In an interview on Eagles FM Radio, the federation president was unequivocal:
The target set for Eric Chelle is to reach the final of AFCON. (...) We will be in the final in Morocco, by the grace of God.
Eric Chelle has accepted this mission and says he's ready to rise to the challenge. As one of the tournament favorites, Nigeria will be aiming for a fourth continental crown at this African showdown.
🚨“The mandate given to Eric Chelle is to get to the AFCON final”
He also mentioned that he’s not a distraction to the Super Eagles and has never imposed on player selections.
On Saturday night, during FC Barcelona's victory over Osasuna at Camp Nou, Barça fans naturally took the opportunity to mock their eternal rivals, Real Madrid.
Last night, as FC Barcelona rode a wave of euphoria and delivered a commanding 2-0 win over Osasuna, Raphinha's decisive goals weren't the only thing celebrated at Spotify Camp Nou. The spectacle extended into the stands, with Real Madrid becoming an unexpected guest at the party. Indeed, after the opening goal, part of the blaugrana faithful broke into an ironic and pointed chant: "Xabi, quédate" (Xabi, stay).
😱🎶 El Camp Nou cantando "XABI (Alonso) QUÉDATE" en la victoria del Barcelona (2-0) frente a Osasuna en LaLiga.
Amid the Barcelona celebrations, Camp Nou made it clear that Real Madrid's struggles remain a source of delight in Catalonia. The message was unmistakable: to highlight the ongoing crisis at the Merengue club and shine a spotlight on their manager's precarious situation.
Kompany talks about the AFCON and Jackson's departure
Vincent Kompany / @x.com
Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany has once again highlighted the immense significance of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), emphasizing its special value for African players in statements made from Europe.
The Belgian coach, who is of Congolese descent, stressed that this continental tournament cannot, under any circumstances, be downplayed, given its sporting and symbolic importance across the African continent.
The Africa Cup of Nations is the oldest continental competition in African football. It was launched in 1957 in Sudan, with the participation of four founding members of the Confederation of African Football, without a qualification phase. The idea for the tournament was conceived during the FIFA Congress held in Lisbon in 1956, before becoming the continent’s flagship football event.
🎙️ [𝑫𝒆𝒄𝒍𝒂𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏] Vincent Kompany veut une victoire de la RDC🇨🇩 à la CAN 2025 !
Alors qu’il répondait à une question sur le départ de Nicolas Jackson avec le Sénégal au Maroc, l’entraîneur du Bayern Munich, qui souhaite une bonne chance à son attaquant, n’a pas hésité… pic.twitter.com/Ndk0PGI5Vk
Regarding the departure of African players based in Europe to join their national teams, Kompany affirmed that the Bavarian club fully supports its players’ international commitments. He specifically noted that Senegalese striker Jackson will join the Senegal squad after the match against Mainz 05.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the Bayern Munich vs. Mainz fixture, Kompany said: “My information is that he will leave with Senegal for the Africa Cup of Nations after the match against Mainz. We hope he goes as far as possible.”
He added: “Of course I want Congo to win, but if not, I wish him all the best. For African players, the importance of this competition should never be underestimated.”
🗣️« Bien sûr que j’aimerai que la RDC la remporte… » (Vincent Kompany)
🤩 En conférence de presse, le coach du Bayern n’a pas caché son souhait de voir son pays d’origine remporter le sacre au Maroc! 🇲🇦 pic.twitter.com/tvfpq2LTUj
Saudi Crown Prince considering making €10 billion offer to buy Barcelona – report
In a major development, it appears Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman might be interested in buying a stake in Barcelona.
According to El Chiringuito’s Francois Gallardo, the Saudi Crown Prince is ready to make an offer worth €10 billion to buy Barcelona.
This will go in line with Saudi Arabia’s strategy to make further inroads into sports, either through direct investment or through the Saudi’s Public Investment Fund (PIF).
€10 billion to buy Barcelona: A feasible offer?
Gallardo points out that Barcelona have a debt of over €2.5 billion that will be difficult to pay off.
Taking that into account, the Saudi Crown Prince is ready to make a €10 billion bid to buy Barcelona, which will theoretically grant him total control of the club.
However, such a deal is not possible, at least for clubs like Barcelona and Real Madrid, which are run by socios.
Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud is interested in buying Barcelona. (Photo by Pool/Getty Images)
Barcelona as an entity is owned by its socios or members, who would never allow the club to be acquired by a foreign entity. This is something that is highlighted by Gallardo as well.
Although the Saudi Arabian Investment Fund can technically invest in Barcelona if the club splits its entertainment arm, that won’t allow PIF to gain control of the club’s day-to-day operations.
A similar strategy is reportedly being considered by Real Madrid, with Florentino Perez open to splitting the club’s entertainment arm and footballing arm, and allowing offers for investors to invest in the entertainment arm.
This could be the only way the PIF can invest in Barcelona as well. But apart from that, it is almost unimaginable for Barcelona to be fully acquired by a foreign entity, let alone PIF.
Manchester United’s highly-rated young midfielder, Kobbie Mainoo, has become a key player in the rumour mill due to a lack of consistent game time at Old Trafford.
Mainoo is reportedly eager for a move to secure more game time to bolster his chances of making the England squad for the 2026 World Cup. He is actively seeking a fresh challenge to accelerate his development.
Kobbie Mainoo prefers Napoli
Although at least 12 clubs are reportedly in the race, sources close to the situation have informed CaughtOffside that Chelsea and Bayern Munich are “leading the chase”. However, the player’s personal preference list still places Napoli as the frontrunner. Mainoo is prioritising where he can be a guaranteed starter as he plots his next move.
Scott McTominay has done quite well at Napoli, leaving Manchester United, and the 20-year-old midfielder is looking to follow in his footsteps. Napoli will be able to provide him with regular opportunities, and he will be able to work with a world-class manager like Antonio Conte at the Italian club.
Mainoo is a promising player with a bright future, and he could develop into a key player for Napoli with the right guidance. It will be interesting to see if the Italian club can get the deal done.
Kobbie Mainoo warming up for Man Utd (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Chelsea are among the clubs leading the race to sign the player. They need more control in the middle of the park. The Manchester United player is well settled in English football, and he could make an immediate impact. He could complement the likes of Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo. The youngster has the quality to complete their midfield for the foreseeable future.
It will be interesting to see if they can convince Manchester United to sell. They are looking to build a formidable team for the future, and the England International midfielder could be the final piece of the puzzle for them.
Igor Thiago has become one of the standout names of the winter transfer window. His strong performances for Brentford have put him firmly on the radar of Premier League giants.
Sources close to the player’s situation have informed CaughtOffside that Tottenham, Newcastle and Aston Villa are all showing “serious interest”, while clubs from Serie A and La Liga are also keeping an eye on the Brazilian striker.
Brentford’s stance is clear, and the club has set a price as high as €70 million, with some reports even mentioning £70 million. That figure makes a January move difficult, especially given Thiago’s contract until 2029. Brentford are reluctant to lose such a key player midway through the season.
Aston Villa boss Unai Emery sees Thiago as a long-term alternative to Ollie Watkins and could push for a bid in the €50–57 million range. Tottenham have explored a loan deal, but Brentford are not open to it. Newcastle, who signed Yoane Wissa from Brentford in the summer but have yet to see him play due to injury, view Thiago as the ideal signing to strengthen their attack.
Given Brentford’s position, a big move in January looks unlikely. However, strong offers are expected to arrive in the summer. For Thiago, the priority remains playing regularly and performing well to secure his place in Brazil’s squad for the upcoming World Cup.
Igor Thiago of Brentford (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
He will look to compete at a high-level and join a big club. The move to Tottenham would probably be more attractive for him compared to the other two clubs. Tottenham have an exciting project, and they recently won the UEFA Europa League. A quality striker could make a huge difference for them in the final third, and the move would be ideal for all parties.
It will be interesting to see if they are willing to pay the asking price in the summer.
Bundesliga’s underrated gem: He could end his club’s curse
For SC Freiburg, this Sunday’s match against Borussia Dortmund is a true trauma game. In their last seven encounters with the Black and Yellows, Freiburg suffered a whopping seven defeats—with a devastating goal difference of 6:28. No other team beats the Breisgauers so often and so thoroughly!
The hope that this horror record will finally come to an end this weekend rests mainly on one name. And twelve months ago, hardly anyone had heard of this name: Johan Manzambi.
The 20-year-old is not just a nice bonus in Freiburg’s attacking play this season. He is, rather, the player who makes the difference. With six scorer points in the Bundesliga (three goals, three assists), he is Julian Schuster’s most dangerous man; across all competitions, he has been involved in nine goals in 20 competitive matches.
A truly meteoric rise
Those are, without question, top-class numbers. But it becomes even more impressive when you look at his meteoric development. Just a year ago, with a market value of €750,000, he was playing in the Regionalliga Südwest. Throughout the entire 2024/25 Bundesliga season, he collected a meager 333 minutes.
Only a few months later, according to transfermarkt.de, he is worth €15 million, is among the fastest-rising players in value across Europe, and is considered—alongside hyped names like Lennart Karl or Said El Mala—as perhaps the hottest prospect among Bundesliga youth.
📸 Sebastian Widmann - 2025 Getty Images
Since Manzambi moved from Swiss club FC Servette to Freiburg’s U19s in January 2023, he has skipped every level at lightning speed. From the second team, he made it up to the Bundesliga, celebrating his debut in September 2024.
A mix of dynamism, creativity, ball control, and incredible versatility—from central midfield to second striker, he can basically play anywhere—currently makes Manzambi one of the most exciting players in Germany.
No wonder, then, that clubs like Bayer Leverkusen and SSC Napoli have long since taken notice of him, according to 'Bild'. Equally interesting: Borussia Dortmund reportedly made initial inquiries this summer, as revealed by the portal 'Absolut Fußball'.
The perfect BVB transfer?
That it was precisely the top club from the Ruhr area that reached out is hardly surprising. Because Manzambi is exactly the type of player who, for many years, symbolized BVB.
He is young, highly talented, full of potential, energetic, and possesses a potential resale value that would have made every Dortmund scout’s foot twitch nervously in the past.
The development of raw diamonds like Erling Haaland, Jadon Sancho, or Jude Bellingham was for almost a decade the clear identity of BVB. The Black and Yellow motto was: We find talents, develop them, and make a golden profit with them.
But this path has noticeably changed in the last two to three years. Young players with great potential have become rare in the squad. Karim Adeyemi or Felix Nmecha could be such players, but are still struggling with inconsistency.
And while the club used to develop young players en masse, the door for that seems to be closing at the moment. Jamie Gittens became a system casualty last season and was eventually sold in the summer. Now Julien Duranville is experiencing something similar. Niko Kovač recently stated succinctly: "The others are better." Even if that may be true, it says a lot about the current priorities in Westphalia.
Because instead of relying on young prospects, BVB is currently building unusually heavily on experienced players. Players like Gregor Kobel (28), Waldemar Anton (29), Nico Schlotterbeck (26), Marcel Sabitzer (31), Julian Brandt (29), and Serhou Guirassy (29) form the backbone of the team.
They are all top players, but not the kind of talents that bring back the old Dortmund feeling. No wonder many fans long for those exciting, unpredictable, electrifying youngsters who put their stamp on the game week after week.
The big stage is calling!
And then there’s Manzambi, who embodies exactly that spirit. A player who boldly demands the ball, who sees spaces others can’t even imagine, and who can decide games single-handedly even at a young age. Someone who would have fit BVB’s attacking midfield perfectly—especially since Dortmund’s attacking play can sometimes seem a bit one-dimensional. In short: a classic "old-school BVB transfer."
Now, on Sunday, Manzambi can show Dortmund live what they’ve missed out on and how valuable it can be to keep investing in youth. Freiburg is relying on him, giving him responsibility, letting him grow.
And who knows? Maybe a strong performance will spark renewed interest. Maybe Borussia will realize that players like Manzambi are not only good for Freiburg, but also for a top club like themselves—a club that is currently searching a bit for its clear identity.
Sometimes, sparks fly and it's love at first sight. For Ernesto Pellegrini, Inter was exactly that.
It all began on 4 April 1954, at a packed Inter vs Juventus. He was just 14 years old and, even though he could barely see the pitch, he was captivated by the Nerazzurri’s 6–0 win and the sheer class of Nacka Skoglund. From that moment on, a lifelong passion was born.
Born in Milan on 14 December 1940, Pellegrini turned that childhood dream into reality in 1984, when he became the 17th president in Inter’s history. His eleven years at the helm were defined by unforgettable triumphs: the record-breaking Scudetto of 1988/89, the Italian Supercoppa, and two UEFA Cups, in 1991 and 1994. It was the era of the “German Inter,” of Trapattoni, and of a team forever etched into the club’s collective memory.
A successful entrepreneur and a man of great generosity, Pellegrini always paired sporting success with a strong commitment to social causes, through the Pellegrini Foundation and the Ruben restaurant – tangible expressions of solidarity and dignity.
In 2020, Inter honoured him with the Special Award of the Nerazzurri Hall of Fame.
Today, Ernesto Pellegrini would have turned 85. His love for Inter remains an indelible chapter in our history.
Three takeaways from Barcelona 2-0 Osasuna | La Liga MD16
Osasuna arrived at the Spotify Camp Nou with a clear plan in mind – to play a deep defensive line that frustrated Hansi Flick’s potent attack to no end.
The visitors, thus, played a back line of three centre-backs and two full-backs who seemingly settled just in front of the goal. Further, they deployed two defensive midfielders right in front of the five-man setup.
Barcelona were forced to work hard to find a way through the compact defence, who were more than happy to park the bus, and could not find any breakthrough in the opening period.
Raphinha, however, stepped up with a clutch goal from outside the box in the 70th minute to hand the team the lead, and completed his brace, capitalising on an Osasuna error to seal the win for Barcelona.
Barça Universal brings you three takeaways from Barcelona 2-0 Osasuna.
A mixed experiment
Hansi Flick approached the game against Osasuna with a unique plan in mind – one that theoretically allowed him to play four of his biggest stars in tandem.
The idea was to drop Fermin Lopez from the number 10 role and deploy Raphinha in that central position to play behind the striker. Lamine Yamal and Marcus Rashford, meanwhile, started on the two flanks.
While the experiment sounded good in theory, what unfolded in the field was a completely different story. In fact, Barcelona’s forward line barely looked fluid on the night.
Raphinha did not have the impact the manager expected when playing centrally and appeared to have his wings cut off. While it has always been clear that he has a future in the novel position, last night perhaps just wasn’t his night.
Raphinha’s return has been a blessing for Barcelona. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
The player did not get involved in the game nearly as much as usual, and the aspect of his counter-attacking threat was lost as he played centrally. Rashford and Ferran, meanwhile, both had disappointing nights apart from a few brilliant moments.
The team may well have got away with all three points, but Flick will likely see it as an experiment gone wrong. He must find an alternative dynamic, perhaps switching Lamine centrally and allowing Raphinha on the right wing, where he naturally shines.
Who is Barcelona’s best CB now?
Pau Cubarsi, for a long time, has held the crown as Barcelona’s leader in defence and rightfully so. After all, doing what he is doing at the age of 18 is impressive, and he has been rock-solid for the greater part of his time in the first team.
This season, however, has seen him slightly dip in quality, which is understandable given his age and the pressure of playing at the highest level. Now, however, it is also time one start asking oneself who the team’s best performing defenders are.
Gerard Martin initially appeared to be a stopgap solution in the department, but with each passing game, he continues to establish himself as a serious contender to be the first name on the team sheet.
Last night, Martin again outshone Cubarsi with eight defensive contributions, four interceptions, five recoveries, a clearance, and three duels won. He also completed 96% of his passes and racked up a staggering 97 passes.
For a long time now, Cubarsi has been seen as the default in Barcelona’s defence, but the manner in which Barcelona closed the game raises a serious question about whether the Eric Garcia-Gerard Martin combination can prove more effective.
It may seem queer seeing those names ahead of the likes of Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, and Cubarsi, but they have more than earned the right to be called Barcelona’s best defenders at the moment.
The pressure on Real Madrid
Real Madrid are in complete and utter disarray, and Barcelona have made the most of their opportunity to up the pressure on Xabi Alonso’s side.
All eyes will be on Xabi Alonso after Barcelona win. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Heading into an away clash against Deportivo Alaves later tonight, Real Madrid are now seven points behind Barcelona, and the circumstances are not in their favour.
The team continues to look dysfunctional, Xabi Alonso’s job is on the line, and the manager is without a single starting full-back for tonight’s clash.
What’s worse is that the likes of Antonio Rudiger, Federico Valverde, and Kylian Mbappe are all either in discomfort or have just recovered, while Dean Huijsen is also coming off a long layoff.
There is, thus, serious pressure on the team that has lost its last two games, and any slip-up will be celebrated with pomp in Catalonia. After all, a seven-point lead so close to the new year would be absolutely massive.
Included among the 28 players selected to compete in the CAN in Morocco, the 20-year-old forward—who plays for Como—will be absent during what is considered a decisive period in the Serie A season.
This situation did not sit well with Como 1907 head coach Cesc Fàbregas. The Spanish manager openly expressed his frustration at losing his player for such a key stretch.
Assane Diao via Instagram 👀
Quand un joueur choisit son pays avec le coeur il fait tout pour le représenter, peu importe les obstacles devant lui ! 💪🏿🇸🇳 pic.twitter.com/7UR7hdUGuE
Fàbregas criticizes Assane Diao's selection by Senegal
Fàbregas revealed that he had spoken directly with Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw about the player, but that their discussions led nowhere.
During a press conference on the eve of the clash with AS Roma, scheduled for Monday, Fàbregas stated: “I’d rather not go into too much detail. He’s been called up, and I spoke to him after the match against Inter. He knows exactly how I feel.”
He went on to add: “I also spoke with his national coach, but it wasn’t a very pleasant conversation. They have every right. Diao will leave if that’s what he wants.”
Cesc Fabregas se « désolidarise totalement » de la convocation d'Assane Diao avec le Sénégal pour la CAN !
CAN 2025: Assane Diao called up by Senegal, Cesc Fàbregas left fuming
Assane Diao
Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw has sparked the anger of Cesc Fàbregas by calling up Assane Diao for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Como's manager, Cesc Fàbregas, is struggling to come to terms with the official call-up of Assane Diao to the Senegal squad for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco. Speaking at a press conference this Saturday, the Como boss admitted he had spoken with the player and then with the Lions' head coach, Pape Thiaw, but the two sides failed to reach an agreement.
📋 La Liste des 28 joueurs sénegalais retenus par le sélectionneur national Pape Thiaw pour la Coupe d’Afrique des Nations, Maroc 2025.
"I'd rather not go into too much detail on the matter. He was called up and I spoke with him after the match against Inter. He knows exactly where I stand. I also spoke with his national coach, but the conversation didn't end very well," the Spanish manager told the press. However, Fàbregas confirmed that the club will respect the decision of the player and the Senegalese Federation. "They have every right. Diao will leave if he wants to," Fàbregas stated.
“Comfortable win” – Alan Shearer names Chelsea’s best player in Everton win
Former Premier League striker Alan Shearer says that Chelsea had a comfortable 2-0 win over Everton yesterday afternoon.
The Toon hero was on Match of the Day duties last night watching the game and analysing all the action from yesterday.
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It was Malo Gusto who scored the decisive goal of the game to finish things off yesterday after a fine all round display from the full back.
This came after Cole Palmer had given Chelsea the lead after a slow start to the game from Enzo Maresca’s side.
Shearer was discussing the game with Danny Murphy last night, and both of them agreed that it was Gusto who was the standout player in the game.
The analysis
Malo Gusto celebrates his goal. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
“It was a comfortable win for Chelsea,” Shearer said on Match of the Day as cited by London World. “Everton had a couple of opportunities but never looked like getting back into the game once it was 2-0. Malo Gusto was the stand-out Chelsea player for me, not just in terms of the obvious with the goal and assist.
“Also the questions he posed for Everton… linking up with Palmer and [Pedro] Neto down the right and moving into midfield alongside [Reece] James to create the extra man when needed.”
Murphy agreed
Murphy also described Gusto as the ‘star of the show’ in response to Shearer’s comments and to be honest, it wasn’t even a debate yesterday, Gusto was the clear standout player.
It was great to see Palmer get back on the scoresheet as well even if he still looks like he is slowly getting his match fitness back and will take some more games to get there.
Liverpool defender targeted by two European giants
Liverpool weigh defensive contingency amid Konaté uncertainty
Liverpool’s long term defensive planning has come sharply into focus following fresh reporting from CaughtOffside, detailing growing uncertainty around Ibrahima Konaté’s future. With interest building from Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, and no extension agreed on a deal that runs until 2026, Liverpool’s recruitment department are doing what elite clubs do best, plan ahead rather than react late.
Konaté remains central to Liverpool’s structure when available, particularly alongside Virgil van Dijk. Yet hesitation over renewed talks has prompted internal discussions, not panic, about how best to protect the squad’s balance as Arne Slot shapes the next phase of his Premier League winning side.
Contract situation driving early planning
CaughtOffside report that “the player’s reluctance to open fresh negotiations have left sporting director Richard Hughes and manager Arne Slot contemplating the club’s next steps.” That line is telling. Liverpool have been here before and the modern approach under FSG prioritises timing and leverage over sentiment.
PSG’s admiration and Real Madrid’s long term monitoring are not noise. The report states that Madrid “have placed him on their defensive shortlist for 2026 as they look to refresh their backline,” which aligns with their habit of planning multiple windows ahead.
Shortlist reflects profile and strategy
Liverpool’s three man shortlist feels deliberate rather than reactive. Jérémy Jacquet is described as a defender Liverpool analysts believe “could develop into a world-class operator under Slot’s guidance.” At 20, he fits the age curve and developmental model.
Marc Guéhi offers a different appeal. Premier League proven, homegrown, and tactically mature, he is viewed as “a ready-made partner for Van Dijk.” That phrasing matters, particularly as Liverpool seek immediate reliability alongside longer term succession.
Photo IMAGO
Nico Schlotterbeck completes the trio, with CaughtOffside noting his suitability for “Slot’s possession-based, high-pressing system.” Left footed balance and progressive passing remain non negotiables under the current coaching staff.
Priority remains keeping Konaté
Despite the groundwork, Liverpool’s stance remains clear. As reported, “Liverpool’s priority remains extending Konaté’s contract.” Internally, there is belief he can anchor the defence as Van Dijk moves through the latter stages of his elite career.
However, as one line neatly summarises, “the upcoming months will be decisive.” Liverpool prefer clarity well before contracts enter danger zones, and this situation will not drift.
Our View – EPL Index Analysis
From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this report feels familiar but reassuring. Familiar because elite players attract elite attention, reassuring because Liverpool are clearly ahead of the curve. There is no sense of scrambling here, just calm preparation.
Konaté staying remains the ideal outcome. At his best, he offers pace, power, and recovery speed that few defenders in Europe can match.
That said, the shortlist inspires confidence. Guéhi feels the safest option, someone who would not need a bedding in period. Jacquet is the exciting one, the kind of signing Liverpool fans have learned to trust over time. Schlotterbeck, meanwhile, feels tactically tailor made for Slot’s build up principles.
The key takeaway is control. Liverpool are not waiting to be forced into action. They are setting conditions, timelines, and alternatives. If Konaté commits, excellent. If not, the structure is already in place to protect performance levels heading towards 2026.
Liverpool double up on watching club ahead of January
Liverpool scouting plans sharpen as January focus narrows
Liverpool’s January transfer thinking is beginning to take shape, with fresh reporting from Anfield Watch pointing to a clear and deliberate scouting strategy rather than reactive market panic. The club have now completed a second visit to Midtjylland, a move that suggests structured planning behind the scenes as Richard Hughes and his recruitment team weigh up short and medium term options.
As the original article notes, Liverpool are “in the process of figuring out their January transfer plans. Or at least, finalising what they’ll do.” That distinction matters. This is not a club scrambling, but one refining priorities amid a difficult run of form that has exposed structural weaknesses in the squad.
Squad gaps driving recruitment urgency
Results have faltered and cohesion has dipped, prompting external noise. The article references the idea that “blowing it all up by sacking Arne Slot” would be the most drastic option, yet that was never a realistic consideration. Slot remains secure, having delivered the Premier League title in his debut season, and the focus remains on reinforcing rather than resetting.
Photo: IMAGO
Injuries and uncertainty are driving that need. Giovanni Leoni’s absence has left Liverpool light defensively, while Mohamed Salah’s future remains unresolved. As the piece states, “they’ve got no one to back him up properly”, a reality that sharpens the urgency around forward planning even if Salah ultimately stays.
Midtjylland visits reveal wider talent sweep
Liverpool’s interest in Midtjylland first surfaced during their emphatic 6-0 win over Nordsjælland, where Franculino Djú scored twice and fuelled speculation. His form has “generated a lot of hype across Europe”, but the second visit changed the narrative.
Franculino missed the 1-0 win over Genk through injury, prompting Bayern Munich to withdraw their presence. Liverpool did not. As reported, the Reds attended regardless, suggesting that the striker may not be ‘the one’. Instead, Campo report interest in Darío Osorio, Aral Şimşir and Mikel Gogorza, a trio fitting Liverpool’s long held profile of high ceiling, adaptable talent.
Strategy over spectacle in January market
Liverpool “are certainly devoting plenty of time to watching them”, a line that captures the essence of this approach. Two scouting missions to the same club underline intent rather than curiosity. January business, if it happens, will likely be precise rather than headline grabbing.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this report feels quietly reassuring. There is no sense of panic buying, no desperation to appease short term frustration. Instead, the club appear committed to a process that has underpinned previous success.
Midtjylland is not a glamorous destination, but that is the point. Liverpool’s best signings have often arrived from markets where development matters more than reputation. The decision to attend the Genk game without Franculino involved suggests broader thinking, perhaps identifying profiles who can contribute across multiple roles or grow into future starters.
Supporters will naturally want immediate solutions, particularly with form stuttering and injuries mounting. Yet there is confidence in knowing Slot is backed with structure rather than slogans. January additions may be limited, but if they arrive, they are likely to be players already embedded in long term planning.
This feels like Liverpool acting like Liverpool again. Calm, observant, and convinced that smart decisions beat loud ones.
How Tottenham could line up in Premier League clash vs Nottingham Forest (4-2-3-1)
Tottenham Hotspur are looking to preserve their unbeaten start to December when they take on Nottingham Forest at City Ground later today.
The mood in the Tottenham dressing room has shifted over the past couple of weeks, with December offering Thomas Frank’s side a renewed sense of belief.
Tottenham visit City Ground looking for a third consecutive win in all competitions and a fourth game without defeat (W2, D1).
Spurs ended last month with three consecutive defeats in all competitions.
However, they seem to have turned a corner after following up a 2-2 draw at Newcastle United with back-to-back wins over Brentford and Slavia Prague.
The 2-0 win against Brentford lifted Tottenham closer to the European places.
They’ll head into the game against Forest six points off fourth-placed Chelsea, and a win over the Tricky Trees will keep them within touching distance.
Tottenham’s recent form will take the sting off the fact that they started the weekend in the bottom half of the Premier League table.
However, their away form is cause for concern as they take on a resurgent Forest side.
Tottenham have lost three of their last four games (D1) away from home, but at least they’ve scored at least twice in six of their seven trips this season.
How Tottenham could line up
After watching his side put in a performance of complete domination in midweek, Frank will be forgiven for making only a couple of tweaks for the battle with Forest at City Ground.
The Danish manager will be wary of compromising his chances of putting together three consecutive wins for the first time since joining Spurs.
That should see Guglielmo Vicario retain his spot in goal as well as a familiar backline of Pedro Porro, Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, and Djed Spence.
The “very talented” Archie Gray is in line to start back-to-back Premier League games and a third in a row in all competitions after forcing his way into Frank’s plans.
He’ll likely be joined by Rodrigo Bentancur, who returns to the XI after sitting out the midweek game.
Randal Kolo Muani should also return to the XI in place of Wilson Odobert, while Xavi Simons, Mohammed Kudus, and Richarlison reprise their roles.
Why Liverpool NEED to agree record-breaking deal to replace Mo Salah
Why Liverpool must break their transfer record to replace Mo Salah
A number of players are being touted as potential additions to Liverpool’s front line as the January window fast approaches.
Antoine Semenyo and Yan Diomande are two of the names that are being constantly linked with a move to Merseyside but, whilst both are great players in their own right, neither are on the level of Salah.
Very few players in fact are capable of reaching the level that Salah displayed last season, when the forward scored 34 goals and provided 23 assists for Liverpool.
The man who looks closest to that level currently in Europe is long-term Reds’ target Michael Olise.
The Frenchman has six goals and nine assists in just 13 appearances for Bayern Munich this season, but a reported price tag of €150 million (~£131m) complicates things.
That fee would exceed the club-record £125m Liverpool paid for Alexander Isak in the summer, a window in which the Reds broke their club record twice after bringing in Florian Wirtz a few weeks before Isak’s arrival.
Is Michael Olise really worth €150 million?
The bar has been set high by Salah at Liverpool. Isak and Wirtz may be capable of picking up some of the responsibility in the Reds’ front line without Salah, but the addition of Olise would take Arne Slot’s side to a whole new level.
Over the past year, the Frenchman ranks in the top percentile among Europe’s wingers for both assists and shot creating actions.
The 24-year-old plays 6.74 progressive passes per 90 minutes, has 5.18 progressive carries per 90 and completes 2.5 successful take-ons per 90.
On top of that he also takes 3.61 shots per 90 and averages 6.5 touches in the opposition penalty area.
Olise would not only unlock Liverpool’s current forwards, he provides plenty of goal threat himself.
Having spent three seasons at Crystal Palace, Olise boasts Premier League experience and wouldn’t need to take time to adjust to English football like Wirtz has this season.
If that output were to continue if Olise made a Premier League return, he would look well worth the hefty price tag.
The Reds broke the bank last summer and so far it hasn’t yielded the results many were hoping for.
Liverpool’s chances of retaining the Premier League title looked almost non-existent by the start of December and throwing more money at the situation is an approach many supporters will be cautious off.
Manchester United and Chelsea have proven over the last five years that splashing big money on players to add to an already struggling side does not always lead to success.
A record-breaking deal for Olise represents a huge risk, but it could have a huge pay-off.
Slot’s biggest problem this season has been chance creation. Isak and Hugo Ekitike are both known to be ruthless in front of goal, but a lack of consistent high-quality chances has meant they are perceived to be underperforming.
Olise could be the man to finally get Liverpool’s forwards firing and his addition, although expensive, could be the catalyst that makes the Reds title challengers once again.
Nottingham Forest vs Tottenham Hotspur – Match Preview and Team News
Tottenham Hotspur travel to the City Ground on Sunday afternoon, aiming to secure three consecutive wins in all competitions for the first time under Thomas Frank.
They face a Nottingham Forest side looking to bounce back from a heavy defeat. Spurs arrive in the East Midlands with renewed confidence after back-to-back victories over Brentford and Slavia Prague. These results have lifted the gloom of a disastrous November.
They face a Forest team that sits 17th in the table, just two points above the drop zone. The hosts are reeling from a 3-0 humbling by Everton last weekend. However, the City Ground has been a difficult venue for Spurs recently. After losing six consecutive Premier League games against Tottenham between 1998 and 2024, Forest did the league double over them last season.
Nottingham Forest vs Tottenham Hotspur – Match Preview and Team News
Date: Sunday, 14 December 2025
Kick-off: 2:00 pm GMT
Venue: The City Ground, Nottingham
Referee: Sam Barrott
VAR: Andy Madley
Last Meeting: Tottenham 1-2 Nottingham Forest, 21 April 2025, Premier League
Team News
Nottingham Forest
Sean Dyche is sweating on the fitness of first-choice goalkeeper Matz Sels. The Belgian missed the Europa League win over Utrecht with a groin issue and is considered a doubt. If he misses out, Carlos Miguel could deputise. The hosts have been dealt a blow with captain Ryan Yates ruled out for the foreseeable future with a thigh injury. He joins Ola Aina, Chris Wood, and Angus Gunn on the sidelines. However, Taiwo Awoniyi may return to the squad.
Tottenham Hotspur
Thomas Frank expects Brennan Johnson to be available to face his former club. The forward missed the midweek Champions League win over Slavia Prague but has returned to training. However, Spurs remain without a host of key players. Dominic Solanke, James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, and Destiny Udogie are all sidelined. Yves Bissouma is also unavailable due to discipline and injury issues.
Form
Nottingham Forest
Forest have struggled for consistency in front of goal, failing to score in eight different Premier League games this season. This record is bettered only by Wolves. However, they are a different beast when they do find the net. Forest are unbeaten in their last 11 league games in which they have scored. Midfield creativity will be key for the hosts, particularly through Elliot Anderson.
Tottenham Hotspur
Spurs have been clinical on the road, winning four away games and collecting 14 points. Remarkably, they are the only side to have scored in all of their away games this season. Their attack has been ruthless, boasting the largest overperformance between goals scored and expected goals in the division. Richarlison has been pivotal to this output, leading the team with eight goal involvements this season.
“Set myself a goal” – Chelsea legend says he wants to be manager of the club
A Chelsea legend has declared that he wants to become manager of the club one day very soon, but he’s not yet retired.
The Blues have a lot of legends of course, and I am sure that there is many of them who would love the idea of managing the club one day, but not all of them will manage it.
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Not all of them will even go into coaching or become successful doing it, but if any current player can do it to a top standard then I have no doubt that Thiago Silva can. He’s a superbly intelligent player and has the right attitude and mentality to move into coaching, which is what he is planning to do once he retires from the game soon.
Silva is still currently playing back in his native Brazil to see his career out, but he will soon be stepping up into a coaching role, and who would bet against him becoming Chelsea manager one day? Those are his intentions.
Silva to manage Chelsea?
Thiago Silva claps the Chelsea fans
‘When I become a coach, I’ve set myself a goal: To coach all the teams where I have played,’ Silva told L’Equipe.
It does seem like something that is destined to happen. When Silva says something, you know he means it and you know he aims to follow through on all his goals. His sons are in the Chelsea academy, imagine he manages them at the club one day soon? Don’t bet against that either.
Maresca pressure?
You get a sense that Enzo Maresca and the Chelsea board are having a bit of a rift and that the two could part ways sooner rather than later, especially judging off the gaffers latest interview yesterday.
It came after Chelsea beat Everton 2-0 in what seemed to be a relief feeling for Maresca after Malo Gusto scored the decisive second goal for his side to go away with all three points.
Obviously it’s way too soon for Silva to jump in yet, but the way Chelsea go I am sure there will be an opportunity down the line in the not so distant future.
Tottenham Hotspur XI vs Nottingham Forest – Predicted lineup and team news
Tottenham Hotspur travel to the East Midlands on Sunday, aiming to maintain their recent resurgence.
Thomas Frank’s side have won back-to-back games in all competitions. These victories have lifted the mood after a difficult November. A win here would mark three consecutive victories for the first time under the new manager.
Spurs have been clinical on the road this season. They are the only team to have scored in every away game so far. However, history suggests they need to be defensively solid to win at the City Ground. Tottenham have not won any of their five Premier League away games against Forest when conceding a goal.
Tottenham Hotspur team news
Thomas Frank has confirmed that Brennan Johnson is available to face his former club. The forward has recovered from a knock and is back in training. However, the squad remains depleted by injuries. Key players Dominic Solanke, James Maddison, and Dejan Kulusevski are all sidelined. Furthermore, Destiny Udogie is out with a thigh injury.
This means Djed Spence is likely to continue at left-back. In midfield, Lucas Bergvall is expected to drop to the bench, with Archie Gray partnering Rodrigo Bentancur. Richarlison will lead the line again. The Brazilian has been pivotal this season, leading the team with eight goal involvements. He will be supported by Mohammed Kudus and Xavi Simons.
Tottenham Hotspur predicted Lineup
Tottenham Hotspur predicted XI: Vicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Spence; Bentancur, Gray; Kudus, Simons, Kolo Muani; Richarlison
When will the match kick off?
The Premier League fixture takes place at the City Ground on Sunday, 14 December 2025. Kick-off is scheduled for 2:00 pm GMT.
How to watch Nottingham Forest vs Tottenham Hotspur?
The match will be broadcast live in the UK on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event. Coverage starts at 1:00 pm GMT.
Nottingham Forest vs Tottenham Hotspur – Predicted lineup and team news
Nottingham Forest welcome Tottenham Hotspur to the City Ground on Sunday afternoon, desperate for points to pull away from the relegation zone.
Sean Dyche’s side sit precariously in 17th place. A heavy defeat to Everton last weekend has increased the pressure on the manager. However, Forest will take confidence from their recent record against Spurs.
They completed a league double over the North London side last season. Therefore, they will believe they can upset the odds again. Key to their chances will be finding the back of the net, as they are unbeaten in their last 11 league games in which they have scored.
Nottingham Forest team news
Sean Dyche faces a nervous wait over the fitness of goalkeeper Matz Sels. The Belgian is a doubt with a groin issue, meaning Carlos Miguel is on standby. In defence, Murillo has returned to action midweek and is pushing for a start. He will likely partner Nikola Milenković in the centre of the backline.
The midfield is boosted by the return of Oleksandr Zinchenko and Douglas Luiz to the squad. However, Elliot Anderson and Morgan Gibbs-White are expected to feature in the starting XI. Ryan Yates is out with a thigh injury, joining a lengthy absentee list. Up front, Igor Jesus is expected to lead the line.
Crystal Palace vs Manchester City – Predicted lineup and team news
Crystal Palace welcome Manchester City to Selhurst Park on Sunday, looking to cement their place in the top four.
Oliver Glasner’s side are enjoying their best-ever start to a Premier League season. Furthermore, they arrive in high spirits after a comfortable European win in midweek. The Eagles have become a difficult team to beat under Glasner.
However, their home form has been slightly patchy this season. They have drawn four league games at Selhurst Park already. Therefore, turning those draws into wins will be crucial if they want to maintain their Champions League push.
Crystal Palace team news
Oliver Glasner has been dealt a significant injury blow. Daniel Muñoz is ruled out until 2026 with a knee injury. Consequently, Nathaniel Clyne is expected to return to the starting XI at right wing-back. This change comes after Justin Devenny picked up a knock in midweek.
The manager is also monitoring the fitness of Jean-Philippe Mateta and Ismaïla Sarr. Both players are carrying injuries but are expected to be available. If fit, Mateta will lead the line alongside Eddie Nketiah. Nketiah loves playing in the capital. Remarkably, he has scored his last 12 goals exclusively in London venues.
Manchester City XI vs Crystal Palace – Predicted lineup and team news
Manchester City travel to London on Sunday, aiming to keep the pressure on league leaders Arsenal.
Pep Guardiola’s side are flying high after a historic Champions League victory over Real Madrid. That win was only their second-ever triumph at the Bernabeu. Now, they turn their attention back to domestic matters.
City have been prolific in the Premier League recently. They have scored at least three goals in each of their last three matches. Furthermore, a win here would see Guardiola reach a significant milestone of 150 high-scoring victories.
Manchester City team news
Pep Guardiola is expected to stick with the core of the winning team from Madrid. However, he remains without key midfielders. Rodri, Mateo Kovačić, and John Stones are all sidelined. This leaves a gap in the engine room. Consequently, Tijjani Reijnders is pushing for a start to freshen things up.
In attack, Rayan Cherki is undroppable at the moment. He is creating chances at a record-breaking rate of one assist every 80 minutes. Therefore, he is expected to retain his place. He will likely support Erling Haaland, who scored the winner in Madrid. Jérémy Doku and Phil Foden will provide the width and creativity on the flanks.
Manchester City predicted Lineup
Manchester City predicted XI: Donnarumma; Nunes, Dias, Gvardiol, O’Reilly; González; Cherki, Reijnders, Foden, Doku; Haaland
When will the match kick off?
The Premier League fixture takes place at Selhurst Park on Sunday, 14 December 2025. Kick-off is scheduled for 2:00 pm GMT.
How to watch Manchester City vs Crystal Palace?
The match will be broadcast live in the UK on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Premier League. Coverage starts at 1:00 pm GMT.
Palladino sees right Atalanta ‘spirit’ and reveals Scamacca worry
Raffaele Palladino feels the last two Atalanta victories over Chelsea and Cagliari showed ‘the right spirit’ and reveals Gianluca Scamacca almost didn’t play tonight.
Scamacca is finally finding his fitness after almost a year out dealing with a knee ligament injury, as he has now scored four goals in his last three competitive matches, including tonight’s double.
“It was certainly a difficult match against a good Cagliari side, who have players with pace that can hit us on the counter,” Palladino told Sky Sport Italia.
“We played a great first half, creating many chances and not running any risks. We took the lead and the only regret is that we didn’t take our other opportunities to double our lead, because if you leave these games open, then anything can happen.”
Atalanta finding their feet under Palladino
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Gianluca Scamacca of Atalanta (L) celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammates Davide Zappacosta (C) and Charles De Ketelaere (R) during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Cagliari Calcio at Gewiss Stadium on December 13, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
It felt for a while as if there might be another stalemate when Gianluca Gaetano equalised, but Scamacca completed his brace just six minutes later.
“In the second half, we started to lose intensity and stamina, I think due to the many games we’ve played in the last 20 days. The thing I liked most of all is that when we conceded the equaliser at the 81st minute, we could’ve collapsed mentally, but instead we kept pushing to win it, that tells me the spirit is there in this group.”
He also revealed something unexpected about his star striker’s performance tonight.
“Scamacca had a fever, he grit his teeth and wanted to be there to help the team. I told him when I was a player, my best performances were when I was running a temperature, and he smiled. He gave his all for us.”
Since taking over from sacked Ivan Juric, this will be the first time Palladino has had a whole week to prepare for a match against Genoa.
“Winning helps you to win,” noted the coach. “We had four home wins in front of our fans in all competition, so creating that enthusiasm in Bergamo is fundamental.”
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Ademola Lookman of Atalanta runs with the ball away from Elia Caprile of Cagliari during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Cagliari Calcio at Gewiss Stadium on December 13, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
This was the final match for Ademola Lookman and Odilon Kossounou of 2025, as they will be off on international duty for the Africa Cup of Nations.
There were also concerns during the second half when Berat Djimsiti pulled up clutching the back of his right thigh with an adductor issue.
“Obviously, we are losing two important players, it’s a pity we also lost Djimsiti today and we’ll have to see what the tests say. I will have to find different solutions, but having a week to prepare is a huge bonus,” continued the coach.
“I really haven’t had much time to work with these players on the training field when there’s a game every three days and travel too, all you have time for is recovery. Now we can concentrate on training and proposing new tactical ideas.”
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: A detailed view of the Atalanta club badge seen inside the stadium prior to the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Cagliari Calcio at Gewiss Stadium on December 13, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
While Atalanta have excelled in the Champions League and are currently in the top eight, this was only their second Serie A victory in the last 11 rounds.
“I need to drill the mentality into these lads that when times are difficult, we need to push even harder, believe even more in our capabilities, and I saw that both against Chelsea and tonight. Not everyone can go behind at home to Chelsea and turn it around, not everyone can concede a late equaliser when exhausted and push on to win it anyway.
“I congratulated the players for their efforts this evening.”
Milik returns to Juventus group training after 550 days of injury nightmare
Juventus fans might’ve forgotten that he still plays for them, but Arkadiusz Milik today returned to training with the full squad for the first time in 550 days.
The striker arrived from Olympique Marseille on loan in 2022 and then made the move permanent for a total €8m in the summer of 2023.
He made 75 competitive appearances in the Juventus jersey, scoring 17 goals and providing two assists.
The most recent of those games was the 2-0 Serie A victory over Monza on May 25, 2024.
Juventus rediscover Milik after 18 months
ROME, ITALY – APRIL 23: Arkadiusz Milik of Juventus celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Coppa Italia Semi-final Second Leg match between SS Lazio and Juventus FC at Stadio Olimpico on April 23, 2024 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)
Milik sustained a knee ligament injury in June 2024 and has not set foot on the pitch since, as his recovery had repeated setbacks.
The 31-year-old Poland international might finally be seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, because today he took part in a training session with his teammates for the first time in well over a year.
Scamacca and De Ketelaere finding Atalanta form with ‘real centre-forward’
Gianluca Scamacca is rediscovering his form with Atalanta just in time to play for Italy in the World Cup play-offs, while Charles De Ketelaere calls him ‘a real centre-forward.’
The centre-forward has not been the same since the serious knee ligament injury he sustained in pre-season 2024, but after setbacks in the recovery process, he seems to finally be back to his best.
He bagged both in Atalanta’s 2-1 victory over Cagliari at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo this evening, around a temporary Gianluca Gaetano equaliser.
The first was an improvisation, redirecting Davide Zappacosta’s wayward effort with a back-heel flick, while with the second he reacted quickly to a volley gone wrong.
Scamacca and De Ketelaere respected Cagliari
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Gianluca Scamacca of Atalanta is challenged by Michel Ndary Adopo of Cagliari during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Cagliari Calcio at Gewiss Stadium on December 13, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
“We expected it to be difficult, we should’ve scored more goals in the first half, Cagliari are tough and equalised, but we managed to bring it home,” Scamacca told Sky Sport Italia.
“We always try to give our all, but when there are so many games close together, we can lack sharpness sometimes. We’re on the right track, though.”
Rediscovering his form could also be boon to the Italy squad going into the crucial 2026 World Cup play-offs in March.
“Absolutely, but I am totally concentrated on Atalanta, because we have many objectives.”
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Gianluca Scamacca of Atalanta (R) celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammate Ademola Lookman (L) during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Cagliari Calcio at Gewiss Stadium on December 13, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Scamacca now has five Serie A goals and one in the Champions League this season, netting four goals in his last three competitive appearances.
However, Atalanta will now be without both Ademola Lookman and Odilon Kossounou, who are heading off to participate in the Africa Cup of Nations.
“Those who play will be ready and give their best,” assured Scamacca.
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 13: Charles De Ketelaere of Atalanta and Alessandro Deiola of Cagliari battle for possession during the Serie A match between Atalanta BC and Cagliari Calcio at Gewiss Stadium on December 13, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
While Atalanta are flying high in the Champions League, this was only their fourth Serie A win in 15 rounds, along with seven draws and four defeats.
“We needed points to climb the table, and fortunately we got the result. It is better to play badly and get three points than the other way around,” noted De Ketelaere on Sky Sport Italia.
“We must be humble, take it one game at a time and keep going. You can see Scamacca is a real centre-forward, as the first goal he was in the right place, on the second he reacted well.”
David Alaba is in high demand in Türkiye: Will it be the Austrian's next destination?
A Turkish giant wants to sign the defender.A Turkish giant wants to sign the defender.
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The Real Madrid defense is set for a winter of clear decisions, as transfer speculations swirl around two key figures. While rumors have linked Antonio Rüdiger with a move to Galatasaray, the Madrid hierarchy has firmly shut that door. Not only is the German center-back not for sale, but the club is reportedly contemplating a contract extension, viewing him as a vital pillar in an otherwise fluctuating backline.
Rebuffed in their pursuit of Rüdiger, Galatasaray's gaze has now turned toward David Alaba. In a significant shift, reports suggest Madrid's management would be willing to facilitate the Austrian's departure in the January window, potentially through a mutual termination of his contract.
🚨 David Alaba is set to depart Real Madrid on a free transfer next summer once his contract reaches its end.
His honours at the club:
🏆🏆 La Liga 🏆 Copa del Rey 🏆 Supercopa de España 🏆🏆 Champions League 🏆 UEFA Super League 🏆 FIFA Club World Cup
This potential availability, however, meets a personal resolve to stay. Alaba, despite facing intense competition for minutes, has shown little inclination to leave the Spanish capital. Just last summer, he declined an offer that would have paid him half of his final year's salary to exit early, choosing instead to remain at the Bernabéu to fight for his place and his full contractual earnings.
Xabi Alonso dismissal would not affect planned exit for Real Madrid star
Real Madrid could sack Xabi Alonso as early as next week, amid concerns over the club’s poor start to the 2025-26 season. The former Galactico has struggled to get the best out of his players since arriving from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer, which is why he could be relieved of his duties if Los Blancos were to be defeated in any of their three matches before the winter break.
This could be good news for a number of players who are reportedly unhappy with Alonso, among them Endrick Felipe. The teenager has struggled for minutes since returning from injury, with Gonzalo Garcia being preferred to him as Kylian Mbappe’s understudy in the striker position.
This has led to a loan move being agreed with Lyon, which will become active when the winter transfer window opens. There has been speculation that this could be cancelled if Alonso were to depart, but it has now been denied by Diario AS, who say the Brazil international will definitely leave the Bernabeu in January.
Image via Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images
Real Madrid are pleased with Endrick loan agreement
Real Madrid believe the temporary move to Lyon will be good for Endrick, who needs minutes in order to guarantee himself a place in the Brazil squad for next summer’s World Cup. The feeling is that everyone will benefit from the agreement, which is why there would be no desire to cancel the agreement even if Alonso, who sees the 19-year-old as more of a dynamic player and less of a box player, were to depart.
Endrick will not play again in La Liga this season, given that he is suspended for the upcoming matches against Alaves and Sevilla. He could be involved in the Copa del Rey in midweek, which would be his final appearance for Real Madrid ahead of joining Lyon at the start of January.
It's a day of celebration for Francisco Conceicao, who turns 23 today, Sunday, 14 December.
Since arriving in Turin, the Portuguese winger has impressed the Bianconeri fans with his unmistakable style: speed, courage and an energy that always brings unpredictability to the attacking play.
Born in 2002 and raised in Coimbra, he immediately showed that he felt at home, carving out his own space with performances full of personality. He has made 57 appearances since joining the Bianconeri in the summer of 2024, scoring nine goals and providing four assists.
During his time at Juventus, Chico has lit up the pitch with sudden bursts of speed, dribbling that sets the stadium alight and contributions that showcase his natural talent. His constant growth has made him one of the most popular players among the fans.
Paul Pogba will not play against Marseille: Is the injury serious this time?
The Frenchman has had a lot of bad luck.
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The upcoming Ligue 1 clash between AS Monaco and Olympique de Marseille will unfold without one of its most anticipated figures. The club has officially announced the absence of French midfielder Paul Pogba from the squad for Matchday 16.
Le groupe pour le déplacement chez l'@OM_Officiel ⚔️
No official explanation has been provided for his exclusion, leaving his specific circumstances undisclosed. Consequently, Monaco will navigate this crucial fixture without the potential contribution of the experienced playmaker, a situation that undoubtedly alters the dynamics of the highly anticipated encounter.
Happy birthday to Luis Henrique, who turns 24 today. The Brazilian winger is enjoying his first season in an Inter shirt after joining the Nerazzurri in the summer of 2025.
So far, the No. 11 has made 16 appearances across Serie A, the Champions League, the Coppa Italia and the Club World Cup. He has already made his mark, providing the assist for Lautaro Martínez’s opener against Como in Inter’s final home league match of the year.
Best wishes to Luis Henrique from the entire Inter family!
Lamine Camara and Krépin Diatta will represent Senegal at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations
The two Monaco midfielders have logically been included in Pape Thiaw's squad to represent the Lions of Teranga at the Africa Cup of Nations, which will take place from December 21 to January 18 in Morocco.
They will, unsurprisingly, be part of their country’s next adventure. They are key players for their national team, and with the 2026 World Cup in their sights, Lamine Camara and Krépin Diatta are set to have a busy season at the international level. The two AS Monaco players will indeed be competing in various events before the global event, including the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which we played in Morocco from December 21 to January 18.
📋 La Liste des 28 joueurs sénegalais retenus par le sélectionneur national Pape Thiaw pour la Coupe d’Afrique des Nations, Maroc 2025.
The Rouge et Blanc midfielders have indeed been included in Senegal’s squad, aiming to once again reach the pinnacle of African football, four years after the Lions of Teranga’s last victory. Back then, former Monaco players Fodé Ballo-Touré, Abdou Diallo, and Nampalys Mendy were part of the team that triumphed in the final, after a penalty shootout against Egypt.
A challenging group ⚔️
It is up to this new generation to repeat this feat, starting by successfully navigating the group stage, during which the men of Pape Thiaw, drawn into Group D, here they will successively face Botswana (December 23), the Democratic Republic of Congo (December 27), and then Benin (December 30). This is a great opportunity for Lamine and Krépin to proudly represent their country and AS Monaco. Daghe messieurs! 🇸🇳
📆 Senegal’s schedule at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations:
Tuesday, December 23 (2 PM): Senegal vs. Botswana at the Grand Stade de TangierSaturday, December 27 (2 PM): Senegal vs. Democratic Republic of Congo at the Grand Stade de TangierTuesday, December 30 (8 PM): Benin vs. Senegal at the Grand Stade de Tangier
2. Bundesliga: Horn the hero as Bochum hold wasteful Hannover to stalemate
Christian Titz’s side were left frustrated after spurning a host of opportunities to claim all three points and close the gap on the top three. A missed Benjamin Källman penalty summed up Hannover’s night as they were forced to settle for a 0-0 draw in this weekend’s Topspiel.
The hosts started on the front foot, with Kolja Oudenne’s effort flashing across goal to serve as an early warning for Bochum. On the 15-minute mark Hannover carved out a gilt-edged chance to open the scoring. Enzo Leopold’s deep delivery was flicked back across goal by a Bochum defender and fell kindly to Daisuke Yokota, but the winger fired straight at Timo Horn, who reacted quickly to smother the chance.
Three minutes before the break, Hannover thought their sustained pressure had finally paid off when Farid Alfa-Ruprecht clumsily bundled over Maurice Neubauer inside the area. However, the usually reliable Källman produced a tame penalty that Horn saved low to his right, ensuring the sides went into the interval level.
The second half proved frustrating for both teams, albeit for different reasons. Bochum offered little in attack, while Hannover continued to rue their missed chances. Horn was called into action again on the hour mark, producing another excellent save from close range to deny Hayate Matsuda, before Källman’s header from a Neubauer corner rattled the crossbar, the breakthrough still refusing to arrive.
Bochum’s best opportunity came out of nothing in the 77th minute. Matus Bero won the ball high up the pitch, allowing Mats Pannewig to exchange passes with Philipp Hofmann before striking the post, a smash-and-grab winner inches away for Uwe Rösler’s side. Hannover almost snatched it late on, but Horn once again stood firm, denying substitute Waniss Taïbi two minutes from time to cap a superb individual performance and secure a point for his side.
It is a second consecutive draw for Hannover, who remain fifth and will feel they did enough to win on the night. Bochum, meanwhile, will be the happier of the two, having survived several scares to take a valuable point back home and stay ninth in the table.
Newcastle United Unwilling To Pay €45 Million To Sign This Brazilian Midfielder: Is It The Right Decision?
According to ESPN, Allan Elias carries a price tag close to €45 million; therefore, Newcastle United have responded cautiously, as the Magpies currently refuse to stretch that far despite a clear need for added quality and depth through the centre of midfield.
However, that hesitation does not remove the bigger picture, since Newcastle have reached a point where small improvements carry extra weight, especially after recent progress that pushed the club back into the UEFA Champions League while also delivering a long-awaited domestic trophy, and that momentum calls for smart reinforcement rather than reckless spending. As a result, recruitment chiefs continue to assess value closely, knowing that every major fee needs to bring control, consistency, and resilience across a long season.
Newcastle United have responded cautiously to €45 million-rated Allan Elias
Meanwhile, Newcastle keep Allan Elias firmly on their radar, largely because his profile matches what Eddie Howe looks for, as he brings energy, press-resistance, and tactical discipline, while also showing room to develop across multiple roles in the middle of the pitch. Moreover, the Magpies have struggled for balance at times this season, and those uneven performances often stem from midfield gaps that expose the defence or isolate the attack.
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 06: Eddie Howe, Manager of Newcastle United, looks on prior to the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Burnley at St James’ Park on December 06, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
At the same time, the Brazilian midfielder reportedly likes the idea of a Premier League move because Newcastle can offer regular minutes, European nights, and a platform that helps young players improve their game against elite opposition. Consequently, he may push internally for flexibility if talks progress, although his club understands their leverage and sees no urgency to compromise early.
Should the Magpies pay that amount for him?
Still, despite their wealth, the Tyneside outfit continues to set firm limits, since they prefer negotiation over impulse, and they want a fee that reflects genuine promise rather than pure potential. That approach aligns with a wider plan focused on sustainability, especially as the Champions League demands test squad depth across all fronts.
Looking ahead, January could determine the direction of the season, because Newcastle need midfield reinforcement to improve their performances and maintain league momentum, yet they must avoid deals that disrupt long-term planning. In our view, Allan Elias fits Newcastle’s needs and direction, and he could develop into a strong Premier League midfielder, although only at the right price, since paying €45 million now feels premature rather than necessary.
Real Madrid academy talent tipped for shock start vs Alavés
Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso is giving consideration to affording what would be an altogether surprising start to a member of the club’s academy setup on Sunday.
This comes amid the ongoing personnel crisis in Los Blancos’ backline.
Real Madrid are of course primed to return to action tomorrow evening, when they make the trip to Vitoria-Gasteiz for a La Liga meeting with Deportivo Alavés.
The visitors will be unable to call upon a whole host of important players for the fixture, particularly in defence.
Owing to a combination of injury and suspension, the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Éder Militão, Fran García and Álvaro Carreras have all been ruled out.
And as alluded to above, this situation could yet culminate in an altogether surprising inclusion in Real Madrid’s line-up at Mendizorrotza.
As per a report from Diario AS:
‘Everything points to Xabi Alonso giving Castilla player Víctor Valdepeñas, who was already included in the squad against Manchester City, his chance.’
Valdepeñas, for his part, is a 19-year-old defender, capable of lining out at either centre-back or left-back.
The Spaniard has long been considered a potential star in the making behind the scenes at Valdebebas.
Leverkusen striker nets scorpion kick in Bundesliga, Ibrahimovic style 💪
A spectacular SCORPION-style goal marked Bayer Leverkusen's 2-0 victory over Cologne this Saturday (13th), in the Bundesliga.
After the cross, Martin Terrier went past the ball, but stretched out completely and opened the scoring at the BayArena. See it at 1'35" in the video below:
The scorpion goal came at the 21st minute of the second half. Shortly after, Robert Andrich scored Leverkusen's second goal.
Now, the Bundesliga's top four are Bayern Munich (37 points), RB Leipzig (29), Borussia Dortmund (28), and Leverkusen (26).
Matchday 14 will conclude on Sunday (14th), with Freiburg vs Dortmund, Bayern vs Mainz, and Werder Bremen vs Stuttgart.
In the next round, Bayer Leverkusen will visit RB Leipzig (on the 20th, Saturday, at 2:30 p.m.), and Cologne will host Union Berlin (on the 20th, Saturday, at 11:30 a.m.).
For all you fact fans out there (or people who may not know why this could be considered a derby), if you look at a map of the Rhein region of Germany, slightly north west of the Rhein, you find the town of Leverkusen, which is one of the stops between the Domstadt and Düsseldorf. Leverkusen’s sole purpose is to be a factory town for the Bayer drugs company.
The first 45 in this ‘derby’ was a tense affair with a derby feel as both teams defended tightly, and both had their fair share of chances. Robert Andrich had a great heading chance in the latter stage of the half, while Said El Mala’s run set up what seemed like an easy tap-in for Luca Waldschmidt, but the Köln forward would scuff his effort wide.
On the other side of the break, Malik Tillman had the perfect chance to open the scoring when the American dispossessed a Köln defender to leave him one on one with Marvin Schwäbe, but Tillman could only sky his effort.
Then, when it looked like the ball was not going to go in for either side, substitute Martin Terrier stepped up to open the scoring with a scorpion kick. Six minutes later, Robert Andrich would avenge his missed header in the first half as he headed the ball home to make it 2-0, and the second goal killed off any sort of momentum that Köln were looking to build.
A big win for Leverkusen after losing their previous two games against Borussia Dortmund and Augsburg. The win sees them maintain their place in the top four and will look to next week, where they will face a tough test against RB Leipzig to end 2025.
Köln’s slide down the table continues as they have only won one of their last eight games. Depending on the results tomorrow, Effzeh could slide down to the bottom half of the table.
Bayer Leverkusen:
Mark Flekken (5), Jarell Quansah (6), Robert Andrich (7), Edmond Tapsoba (6), Arthur (5), Ibrahim Maza (6), Aleix Garcia (7), Ernest Poku (5), Malik Tillman (5), Jonas Hofmann (5), Christian Kofane (5)
Marvin Schwäbe (7), Sebastian Sebulonsen (5), Eric Martel (5), Rav van den Berg (5), Jan Thielmann (5), Tom Krauß (5), Denis Huseinbasic (5), Jakub Kaminski (6), Luca Waldschmidt (5), Said El Mala (5), Marius Bülter (4)
An odd game where it is hard to pick out a clear man of the match. Leverkusen had to be defensively sound in this game to see off a dangerous Köln attack, and Robert Andrich was at the heart of it (quite literally), leading the backline, especially when there have been doubts about his level in recent weeks.
While for Köln, Marvin Schwäbe also made several important saves to keep out Leverkusen, and keep the game level.
But, Aleix Garcia continues to impress. His deadball technique is underrated due to the presence of Alejandro Grimaldo in the squad, but the midfielder showed his quality today assisting Andrich’s goal. While his passing ability is one of the best in the league. Via FotMob, Garcia completed the most passes in the game (87) with a 98% completion rate, whilst also creating the most chances in the game (two). The Spaniard has smoothly replaced Granit Xhaka, and in hindsight, should of been used more often last season under Xabi Alonso.
Percassi: ‘Atalanta victory over Chelsea was a magical night’
Atalanta director Luca Percassi acknowledges the win over Chelsea was their third greatest European night, but now they must ‘battle for every point’ against Cagliari.
It kicks off at the New Balance Arena in Bergamo at 19.45 GMT.
However, in Serie A they are still playing catch-up and won only one of their last 10 games.
Percassi marks European milestone for Atalanta
BERGAMO, ITALY – DECEMBER 09: Gianluca Scamacca of Atalanta BC during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match between Atalanta BC and Chelsea FC at Stadio di Bergamo on December 09, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
“It is going to be a very difficult match against a team that showed last week how dangerous it can be, they are well set out with good players, so it certainly will be tough,” Percassi told Sky Sport Italia.
The panel put it to the director that the victory over Chelsea was the third best night for the club in Europe, after the Europa League Final triumph and their 3-0 Champions League win away to Liverpool.
“I fully agree! It was a magical night.”
Nonetheless, Percassi shrugs off suggestions La Dea are doing anything other than battling for every point domestically, let alone taking European qualification for granted.
“It would be a terrible error for Atalanta to give less than 100 per cent in Serie A, as our objective as always is to secure safety as soon as possible, then build from there.”
Why Fabrizio Romano just Tweeted about Reece James after full back helps Chelsea to win
Chelsea beat Everton 2-0 today, and among the stats from the game was the interesting fact that this was the first time that Reece James had completed 90 minutes for Chelsea 3 times in a row since 2023.
It’s been a slow and steady build up for James, who returned from his last serious injury a year ago and has since generally only played once a week, or twice at a stretch in recent weeks. Enzo Maresca was also asked about James’ gradual return to playing multiple games per week in his post match press conference:
“He’s asking for [even] more games. He’s getting better and better so it’s a good feeling for us because we said many times that he’s an important player for us,” the coach said.
James completes 3 consecutive full games for first time in almost 3 years
Fabrizio Romano’s Tweet about Reece James completing 3 90 minutes for the first time since 2023.
It was even a notable enough stat to be picked up by Fabrizio Romano, whose Tweet you can see above. The last time he achieved this feat was in April 2023, when he played against Liverpool in the league, then against Wolves in the league, then in the two legs of the defeat to Real Madrid in the Champions League.
James won’t break that four game streak now. He will get a break as we play an EFL Cup game on Tuesday night. The full back will return to action next weekend, hopefully nicely refreshed and ready for another run of games at Christmas.
In other news…
Enzo Maresca had a rather surprising rant midway through his presser, claiming he had just had his worst 48 hours at the club due to a lack of support.
Maresca talked about Cole Palmer’s impact on his return to the team, noting that the team had been without their star man for long periods of the season.
Pedri 9, Raphinha 9 | Barcelona 2-0 Osasuna: Player Ratings
Barcelona hosted Osasuna on Saturday night at the Spotify Camp Nou in a game that was far closer than the team would have hoped for.
The visitors deployed a low block with five defenders and two defensive midfielders, making it horrendously difficult for Barcelona to create attacking chances.
The first half went goalless after a Barcelona goal was ruled out for a queer offside. Even the second half looked set to follow the same script, until Raphinha stepped up and scored a stunning goal into the bottom corner to put his side up and hand them all three points.
Barça Universal brings you the player ratings from Barcelona 2-0 Osasuna.
Joan Garcia: 8
The goalkeeper was forced to make two rather straightforward saves in the first half and did not struggle with them in any capacity. Went on to make one other massive save to deny Osasuna on a move that was eventually called offside.
Alejandro Balde: 7.5
A solid performance from Balde. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
The left-back played a primarily attacking role in possession and looked to overlap with Rashford to create numbers in the final third.
Defensively, however, he was forced to track back with pace to keep up with Victor Munoz and did a decent job.
Gerard Martin: 8
The new mainstay in central defence kept up his level, both in terms of defensive contributions and his distribution.
Martin did not hesitate in going for the long ball forward and was almost always accurate on them, all while keeping his composure at the back.
Pau Cubarsi: 7.5
Cubarsi did a decent job in walling off Ante Budimir, although there were some occasions in the first half where Joan Garcia was again left to fend for himself.
His distribution was decent despite a few errors with his long-balls, and his performance was overall better than the dip he has shown in recent weeks.
Jules Kounde: 8
Kounde had a field day against Osasuna and was barely visible in a defensive sense. Instead, the Frenchman pushed forward in attack and even made runs into the box, attempting to overlap with Yamal’s wide threat.
Came close to scoring and got into good positions on a couple of occasions but none yielded any fruit.
Eric Garcia: 8
The Spaniard continued to bench Frenkie de Jong in Hansi Flick’s plans and once again featured as a defensive midfielder for the Catalans. He did well with his distribution and teed up well with Pedri to orchestrate the team’s buildup.
Pedri: 9
Pedri again dished out a simple and flawless performance that cannot be criticised much. He was effortless on the ball, worked hard out of possession and was one of Barcelona’s first lines of defence.
The Canary Islander constantly probed the Osasuna defence looking for holes to exploit and did not hesitate to pull the trigger in front of goal either.
Provided a lovely assist for Raphinha’s eventual opener.
Raphinha: 9
The captain with the winner. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
The captain played as the number 10 in Flick’s novel setup but did not look like a potent threat and was nowhere close to what he usually does on the wing.
While his central position did indeed help bring Rashford’s lethality to the field, Raphinha’s runs and counter-attacking threat were partially missing because of the altered dynamic.
Came up clutch with a stunning strike at the 70-minute mark to give Barcelona the lead and put them in the driver’s seat. Scored a tap-in for the second and patched up an otherwise poor display with two goals.
Lamine Yamal: 8.5
Yamal was decent, but not at his best. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Yamal started as Barcelona’s right-winger on the night and teed up well with both Raphinha and Kounde to break through the defence on occasion. He could well have finished with a couple of assists to his name in the first half.
Yamal came painfully close to scoring after a stunning dribble late in the half and looked inspiring as always.
Ferran Torres: 7.5
The Spaniard was well-walled off by the Osasuna defence for the better part of the game, but that did not stop him from threatening the goal with his cheeky finishes.
Scored a great header into the top corner to seemingly give Barcelona the lead, only to have it scraped off for an offside on the short corner. Attempted another audacious bicycle kick that went barely wide of the post.
Marcus Rashford: 7.5
The Englishman did well on Barcelona’s left flank and combined with Balde regularly to set the full-back into space. He attempted his trademark crosses to no avail and was once again decent with the corner deliveries.
Should have had a penalty called for a foul on him early in the game, but somehow the incident never even reached a review stage.
“The reason why he wasn’t in Milan was his interview,” Slot said.
“The question then is, everyone has an opinion, should he be out once, twice, three times, four times, four months, 12 years. Every manager makes different decisions.
“I spoke to him yesterday. Usually I don’t say anything we talk about and I’m not going to make an exception now but I think actions speak louder than what has been said.
“He was in the squad again and when I had to make my first substitution, I brought him in and he performed as every fan, including me, would like him to perform.”
Asked if there are any more problems to iron out with Salah, Slot replied: “For me there’s no issue to resolve. For me, he’s now the same as any other player.
“You talk to your players if you’re happy or unhappy with things but there’s nothing for me to talk about after what happened against Leeds, after the game.”
“Mo is going to go to the AFCON now. I hope he’s going to do very well and in the meantime we have to play here without him, with not that many players available at the moment.
“He’s a Liverpool player and I would like to use him when we need him. Today, he didn’t start as he didn’t a few times before now but in the last one-and-a-half seasons I think he’s started almost every game.
“He had a performance today like you would want him to give.”
Bayer Leverkusen delivered a commanding performance in the Rheinderby, combining sustained pressure with moments of individual brilliance to overcome 1. FC Köln.
After a controlled but goalless first half, the hosts raised the intensity after the break, eventually breaking Köln’s resistance with a sensational strike from Martin Terrier before sealing the win through a set-piece, underlining their dominance over both halves at the BayArena.
Here is our full match report for the "Rheinderby" between Leverkusen and Köln.
First half:
Leverkusen were once again without Alejandro Grimaldo, who missed his second consecutive Bundesliga match as he continues to recover from a knock. The absence was notable given that the Spaniard had featured in midweek Champions League action, underlining the cautious approach taken by Bayer in the league.
Despite controlling possession and dictating the tempo, Leverkusen struggled to turn their dominance into clear-cut chances. The best opportunity of the half fell to 1. FC Köln, sparked by an excellent individual effort from El Mala. The winger dribbled his way down the left flank before delivering a perfectly weighted ball into the centre of the box, but Waldschmidt failed to apply the finishing touch.
At the other end, Leverkusen threatened primarily from set pieces. In the 34th minute, Robert Andrich found himself completely unmarked at a corner, only to see his powerful header fly just wide of the target.
For Köln, Kaminski was a standout performer in the first half, covering vast areas of the pitch and contributing at both ends, helping the visitors remain competitive despite Leverkusen’s territorial superiority.
The first half was also shaped by events in the stands. Leverkusen supporters showed solidarity with Köln fans, who had chosen not to travel in protest against stadium entry regulations. Right after kick-off, home fans laid down their flags and as the match progressed, numerous Ultras left the stadium, highlighting a united stance in the ongoing debate over fan policies.
With no breakthrough before the whistle, the teams headed into half-time level, Leverkusen in control of possession but still searching for a decisive moment.
Second half:
The hosts wasted little time in creating chances: Tillman was presented with a HUGE opportunity after picking up the ball near the centre circle and sprinting clear towards Schwäbe, but the midfielder failed to keep his composure and blazed his effort well over the bar.
Leverkusen continued to pile on the pressure in the opening ten minutes, pinning Köln deep inside their own half. Another gilt-edged chance followed when Maza unleashed a powerful effort from close range, only for Schwäbe to react superbly, keeping the ball out with a sharp reflex save.
Despite Leverkusen’s dominance, Köln remained dangerous on the break. Sebulonsen tested the hosts from a free-kick, while substitute Maina tried his luck with a long-range effort, ensuring the visitors stayed a threat.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 66th minute, and it came in spectacular fashion: Arthur burst down the right flank before delivering a precise cross into the box, where Terrier produced a stunning scorpion kick to beat Schwäbe. Remarkably, the Frenchman had been subbed on only moments earlier and scored with just his third touch of the game, a contender for the goal of the Bundesliga weekend.
Leverkusen remained firmly in control after taking the lead and continued to create chances. Their pressure paid off again in the 72nd minute, when Andrich, once more largely unmarked at a corner, rose highest and made no mistake this time, doubling the hosts’ advantage.
With Leverkusen dictating proceedings and Köln struggling to stem the tide, the second half firmly belonged to the hosts as they moved into a commanding position. At the end of the day, Köln had no chance in this Rheinderby and Leverkusen can call themselves winners once more.
WATCH: Raphinha doubles up as Barcelona seal victory against Osasuna
Barcelona have had a tough time of things in their efforts to break down Osasuna, but they have now finally taken the lead at the Spotify Camp Nou.
Barcelona, who are without goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny due to illness, thought they had scored in the first half through Ferran Torres, but that goal was ruled out by VAR, with Raphinha having been found to have been offside in the lead-up. That caused immense frustration for the hosts, but that has now been alleviated.
And it is Raphinha, who has had a particularly difficult evening, that got the breakthrough. He smashes home from the edge of the box after being played in by Pedri, and late on, he has his second of the evening to make the points safe for Barcelona.
Barcelona have pushed hard in this one, and they have got their reward. The three points will be staying in Catalonia, and it means their La Liga lead will extend to seven for 24 hours at least.
Report: Chelsea are favourites to sign 19-year-old wonderkid
Chelsea Lead Chase for Kees Smit as Premier League Interest Intensifies
Chelsea’s recruitment strategy continues to tilt firmly towards elite young talent, and their growing interest in AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit fits neatly into that vision. iNews have outlined how Stamford Bridge has positioned itself at the front of an increasingly crowded queue for one of Europe’s most admired teenage midfielders.
At just 19, Smit has become central to AZ’s season, combining composure with imagination in a side renowned for developing technical excellence. As reported, “the Blues are very keen on Smit, the 19-year-old Holland under-21 international, and are ready to rival fellow Premier League suitors Newcastle, Tottenham and Manchester United for a player who is rated at around £25m.”
This is not idle curiosity. Chelsea’s interest has already moved beyond scouting reports. “There has been recent dialogue between Chelsea and Smit’s camp, although it’s unclear whether they will make a move in January, with the Blues expecting more of a quiet winter transfer window after revamping their squad in the close season.” That sense of restraint speaks to a club attempting to balance ambition with sustainability after several windows of heavy spending.
Rising Reputation in the Eredivisie
Smit’s ascent has been rapid but not rushed. AZ sit fifth in the Eredivisie and remain respected across Europe for their player development, yet Smit is increasingly viewed as exceptional even by their standards. He was again influential in midweek European action, underlining why Premier League clubs see him as ready for the next step.
Photo IMAGO
Within recruitment circles, he is widely regarded as the “real deal”, a phrase that carries weight given AZ’s history. The club faces a familiar dilemma, either protect a prized asset or invite a bidding war that could reshape their financial future. With Barcelona and Real Madrid also monitoring the situation, patience may yet prove lucrative.
Chelsea Strategy and January Reality
Chelsea’s interest in Smit aligns with a broader pattern. The club has invested heavily in players before peak value, prioritising potential and adaptability. Smit fits that profile perfectly, technically gifted, tactically intelligent and already accustomed to responsibility.
However, January remains uncertain. Chelsea’s expectation of a quieter winter window suggests that any move may be strategic rather than reactive. A summer deal, potentially after further development and increased competition, feels plausible. Yet early dialogue can often lay the groundwork for decisive action later.
Newcastle Competition and Long Term Planning
Newcastle United remain significant rivals. They have followed Smit closely since his breakthrough and see him as a natural fit for Eddie Howe’s evolving midfield. The Magpies, buoyed by the £125m sale of Alexander Isak, have funds available but remain selective. Their long term approach, backed by director of football Ross Wilson, prioritises youth and sustainability.
Still, as noted, optimism has cooled in recent weeks. “It would be a major coup to land a player of his potential but with Chelsea among those hovering, it may well depend on whether Newcastle can match their sales pitch.” Chelsea’s pull, both financial and developmental, often proves decisive in such races.
Perhaps the strongest endorsement comes from Ronald Koeman, who offered a striking comparison. “I have to be careful what I say, but I coached Pedri at Barcelona and I see things in Kees Smit that remind me of him.” He highlighted “the changes of direction, the use of both feet, the vision of the game”, qualities that define elite modern midfielders.
Our View – EPL Index Analysis
For Chelsea supporters, this report feels both exciting and reassuring. Exciting because Kees Smit represents the kind of midfielder supporters crave, creative, intelligent and brave on the ball. Reassuring because the club appears measured rather than reckless, engaging early without forcing a January move that could inflate the fee or disrupt squad balance.
Many Chelsea fans will see Smit as a long term investment rather than an instant saviour. With a young core already in place, adding another high ceiling talent who can be integrated gradually feels sensible. The Pedri comparison naturally raises expectations, but supporters understand that development rarely follows a straight line.
There is also confidence in Chelsea’s appeal. Regular European football, elite facilities and a track record of trusting youth provide a compelling pitch. If AZ choose to wait until summer, fans will trust the club to remain patient rather than overpay.
Ultimately, this is the type of deal Chelsea supporters want their club to pursue. Smart, forward thinking and rooted in football logic rather than headline chasing. If Smit arrives, it would feel like another calculated step towards building a side capable of sustained success rather than short term bursts.
Manchester United can sign January target for €30m – agent travels to Manchester
The future of Conor Gallagher remains one of the most uncertain in the Atletico Madrid squad, as the England international continues to struggle for a regular starting spot. The 25-year-old is thought to be keen to make a bid for Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad next summer, but will struggle to do so without a clear starting role.
Gallagher was cited as one of the potential sales at the Metropolitano during the summer, but no side met Atletico’s €40m valuation. Despite Manchester United coming in with a late loan offer for Gallagher on transfer deadline day, he ended up remaining in the Spanish capital.
Atletico Madrid lower asking price
Image via Aitor Alcalde / Getty Images
Last month Gallagher admitted that he was not satisfied with his role at Atletico currently. So far this season he has started just seven of Atletico’s 23 matches this season, even if he has appeared in them all. As per RadioMarca, Atletico would be willing to consider doing business at €30m during the January transfer window, a reduction of more than a quarter of the fee that Los Colchoneros paid for him 18 months ago. Gallagher is currently under contract until 2029.
Journalist: "Pablo Barrios was celebrating before you even finished."
According to Indykaila, Gallagher’s agent has now been spotted on their way to Manchester. They do not confirm whether it is related to United and Gallagher, but he has been the subject of consistent rumours associating him with the Red Devils.
Conor Gallagher's agent traveling to Manchester via 🚆
Gallagher’s primary obstacle at Atletico Madrid is Diego Simeone’s formation. So far he has struggled to operate in the midfield two that Simeone tends to favour in a 4-4-2, and he is not a natural on the flanks either. On the rare occasion he has used a three in midfield, Gallagher has looked more comfortable, but those occasions remain few and far between.
👑 Salah breaks Rooney's Premier League record on comeback
What hasn’t been written about Mohamed Salah in the past few days?
After controversial statements about coach Arne Slot, the Egyptian was dropped from the Champions League squad during the week. He was also heavily criticized by former Liverpool legends such as Jamie Carragher.
But Salah delivered the perfect response on the pitch. Against Brighton, he returned to the squad, was substituted in after 26 minutes for the injured Joe Gomez, and later set up the 2-0 goal by Hugo Ekitike.
Mo Salah has been involved in 𝟐𝟕𝟕 league goals for Liverpool.
Salah’s impressive return also meant a Premier League record: the most goal involvements for a single club.
The superstar recorded his 277th league goal involvement in a Reds shirt, surpassing none other than Wayne Rooney. While at Manchester United, the former striker once collected 276 goal involvements.
Now that’s how you celebrate a comeback game, isn’t it?
Fofana Gets 8, Chalobah With 7.5 | Chelsea Players Rated In Impressive Win Vs Everton
Chelsea welcomed Everton at Stamford Bridge earlier this afternoon as they looked to secure a positive result at home in the Premier League. The Blues made a bright start to the game and scored the opening goal in the 21st minute when Cole Palmer got his name on the scoresheet. Malo Gusto doubled his side’s advantage in the 45th minute as Enzo Maresca’s men went into the half-time break 2-0 up on the scoreline.
The West London club controlled the game well in the second 45 minutes and secured an impressive 2-0 win in front of their home supporters.
Let’s take a look at how each Chelsea player fared during the clash against the Toffees.
Sanchez made one good save at the back and earned an important clean sheet this afternoon.
RB: Malo Gusto – 8.5/10
He was a positive influence at both ends of the field and ended the game with a goal and an assist to his name.
CB: Wesley Fofana – 8/10
Fofana put his foot through the ball when needed and was good on the ball.
CB: Trevoh Chalobah – 7.5/10
He performed his defensive duties well and was accurate with his passing.
LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 13: Malo Gusto of Chelsea celebrates scoring his team’s second goal as Everton players look dejected during the Premier League match between Chelsea and Everton at Stamford Bridge on December 13, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
LB: Marc Cucurella – 7/10
He performed his defensive duties well and made one decent chance going forward.
CM: Reece James – 7/10
James managed to shine at times on both halves.
CM: Enzo Fernandez – 7.5/10
He earned possession back twice and made one inviting chance in the final third.
RW: Pedro Neto – 7.5/10
Neto was a real menace on the right flank and has got an assist to show for his efforts.
CAM: Cole Palmer – 7/10
He caused some headaches for his marker and took his goal well in the 21st minute.
LW: Alejandro Garnacho – 6/10
Garnacho was not shy of having a shot at goal.
ST: Joao Pedro – 7/10
He managed to prove his worth at times up top but failed to register a goal.
Substitutes:
CM: Andrey Santos – 6/10
He added some energy and dynamism to Maresca’s midfield.
Diogo Dalot: Real Madrid and Bayern want Man United defender, with club not against 2026 sale
Diogo Dalot’s days as a Manchester United player appear to be numbered, with the latest revelations casting serious doubt over the defender’s long-term future at Old Trafford.
Indeed, having joined from FC Porto back in 2018, Dalot is now the second-longest-serving United player at the club, behind only Luke Shaw.
Moreover, a full-back by trade, capable of operating on either flank, the Portuguese international’s versatility has been the one quality that has consistently made him stand out at United.
Indeed, his adaptability has ensured he has played a key role under every Manchester United head coach he has worked with since arriving.
Inconsistency Under Amorim
Nevertheless, while his work ethic has often been praised, Dalot has struggled with inconsistency.
Under Ruben Amorim, this weakness has become more evident, with the United head coach even calling him out publicly for his fluctuating performances.
As United prepare to push forward with their rebuild next year, prioritising reinforcements in midfield and at wing-back, it is becoming increasingly clear that some players may have to be sacrificed.
Dalot Among Possible Departures
According to Teamtalk’s Graeme Bailey, Dalot could be one of those players. Bailey explains:
“Dalot’s long-term future is being discussed internally by Man Utd, as the club have been made aware of possible interest in the Portuguese international.”
He goes on to reveal why Manchester United are considering the idea of letting Dalot go:
“While Wilcox and his staff are happy with Dalot as he is doing well, they are also aware that the former FC Porto player’s next deal would require a bit of a pay rise, so there are early-stage discussions about him.”
Where Next for Dalot?
Speculation over Dalot’s next destination has already begun. Bailey reports:
“Real Madrid are interested in a 2026 deal for Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot.”
However, it is not just the Spanish giants who are circling. Atletico Madrid and Bayern Munich are also admirers of the 26-year-old’s versatility and would be keen to bring him in.
Although Dalot’s current contract runs until 2028, this update significantly clouds his long-term prospects at United.
Ultimately, for all his service and adaptability, there is now a genuine possibility he may not see out his deal at Old Trafford.
Liverpool settle nerves as Ekitike double sinks Brighton at Anfield
Liverpool steady course as Brighton fail to land blow at Anfield
Liverpool’s season has rarely moved in a straight line, but this felt like a step towards calmer waters. A 2-0 win over Brighton, shaped by a Hugo Ekitike double and a Mohamed Salah assist, lifted Arne Slot’s side to sixth and extended an unbeaten run that has quietly gathered momentum.
The storyline was inevitably dominated by Salah’s return. Left out in midweek after an emotionally charged episode at Leeds, the Egyptian began on the bench before being introduced early due to Joe Gomez’s injury. Yet the result itself spoke of something broader, a team learning to manage noise, disruption, and expectation.
Early strike sets tone
Liverpool barely allowed the afternoon to settle before taking control. Inside the opening minute, Gomez’s header dropped invitingly for Ekitike, who adjusted his body and volleyed past Bart Verbruggen. It was a goal of instinct rather than flourish, but it established the rhythm Liverpool wanted.
Brighton, lively without being ruthless, offered space and opportunity in equal measure. Alisson denied Diego Gomez when clean through, while further openings came and went. Each miss felt increasingly costly, especially as Liverpool began to find composure in midfield, even with Dominik Szoboszlai filling in at right back.
Ekitike emerging focal point
Ekitike’s afternoon went well beyond his goals. He stretched Brighton’s back line, found pockets between defenders, and repeatedly offered angles for Florian Wirtz and Salah to exploit. He might have had more, blazing over from close range and firing wide after clever build up play.
His second goal on the hour arrived from a familiar Liverpool source. Salah’s corner drifted to the back post, where Ekitike stood unmarked to head home his 10th of the season. It underlined a growing trust, both in set pieces and in Ekitike as a central figure under Slot.
Salah return adds edge
Salah’s contribution was measured but meaningful. His assist took him to 277 Premier League goal involvements for Liverpool, a new competition record for a single club. Beyond the numbers, his presence sharpened Liverpool’s transitions and lifted the tempo in the final third.
There was a late chance to crown the comeback with a goal, but Salah blazed wide after Federico Chiesa’s clever pass. Even so, his applause of all four sides of Anfield felt significant, arriving before another looming absence with the Africa Cup of Nations.
Brighton leave with regrets
Brighton will view this as an afternoon squandered. Thirteen attempts, an expected goals figure of 1.91, and repeated access to Liverpool’s penalty area produced nothing tangible. Wastefulness, not ambition, defined their display.
Errors played their part too, particularly in the build up to Liverpool’s opener, while key moments from Diego Gomez and Brajan Gruda slipped away. By full time, the pattern was familiar, attractive play undone by a lack of incision.
Liverpool move on with back to back wins and clean sheets, Brighton slide to ninth, and the gap between performance and outcome feels wider for one side than the other.
Minister Abodi calls for action after ‘unacceptable’ Folorunsho insults go unpunished
Minister for Sport Andrea Abodi warns that the Lega Serie A must clamp down on insults between players after the Mario Hermoso and Michael Folorunsho controversy.
The Minister spoke to reporters at a political event and was asked several questions on the current Calcio landscape.
Although he did not specifically name anyone, it was evident he was talking about last week’s ugly clash between Cagliari midfielder Folorunsho and Roma defender Hermoso.
Abodi wants action against unacceptable insults
CAGLIARI, ITALY – DECEMBER 07: Michael Folorunsho of Cagliari fouls Zeki Celik of Roma during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and AS Roma at Stadio Sant’Elia on December 07, 2025 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)
“If a coach does not think he must also be an educator, then something really isn’t adding up,” said Abodi.
“It also doesn’t add up when a professional on the field makes a violent and unacceptable insult towards the mother of an opponent. When that happens, it cannot just end with a pat on the back.
“Aside from simple politeness, that is anti-sporting behaviour, it is against the rules of the sport. And we have seen too often that people hide behind the interpretation of the rules.
“The behaviour of professionals must be exemplary.”
ROME, ITALY – JUNE 03: Minister of Sport Andrea Abodi attends during the 1st SS Lazio conference: bullying and cyberbullying in schools and sports at the Olimpic stadium on June 03, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
This is because although there is very clear video footage of what was said, including ‘your mother is a w***e and she needs to die,’ video evidence can only be used by the Disciplinary Committee for certain incidents.
That does include blasphemy, which is the worst type of swearing in Italian football, but not vile insults like this.
“I am not being a spoilsport here, but I do believe that considering the media visibility that players have, this carries with it a sense of responsibility,” continued Minister for Sport Abodi.
“There also has to be a disciplinary mechanism that can take action and make people realise this is not ok, because if they are allowed to insult like this, then they feel authorised to continue doing it.
“Insults we see in Serie A then will prompt even worse insults in the third division or the under-15 teams. Every gesture can be read as educational or damaging.”
Palmer missed more than two months with a groin problem but despite having returned recently, he says he is still not back up to full speed.
“I wouldn’t say I’m at my best yet,” he told BBC Match of the Day.
“I’m still dealing with an injury. Hopefully it gets better and better but there’s still a bit to go.
“It is getting better. The stuff I’ve been doing with the physios at the club. It’s just a matter of not doing too much too soon.
“Literally, it’s just a day by day thing. Hopefully it gets better.”
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has also urged patience with Palmer, insisting he is not able to play two games in quick succession at the moment, having left him out of the squad for the Champions League defeat to Atalanta earlier this week.
AC Milan Head Coach Claims ‘Inter & Napoli Are Favourites For The Scudetto’ As Serie A Title Race Heats Up
AC Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri has sought to ease the pressure on his side by openly naming Inter and Napoli as the main favourites for the Serie A title.
Speaking at a press conference on the eve of Milan’s league clash with Sassuolo, with quotes via FCInter1908, the Rossoneri boss repeatedly played down talk of a title charge despite his team’s strong position in the table.
Allegri first turned his attention to the upcoming opponents, acknowledging Milan’s recent struggles against Sassuolo and newly promoted sides.
He admitted that Milan are eager to reverse an unfavourable trend, explaining that “the numbers against Sassuolo and the newly promoted teams are not in our favour.”
He warned that Sassuolo are a dangerous opponent, noting that “they are one of those teams where the matches never really end, whether you are ahead or behind,” and stressed that the game must be approached “with respect and order.”
Milan Coach Allegri Names Inter & Napoli Scudetto Favourites
TURIN, ITALY – OCTOBER 15: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of Juventus looks on prior to the Serie A match between Torino FC and Juventus at Stadio Olimpico di Torino on October 15, 2022 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
He underlined that “Inter and Napoli finished second and first last season, so it’s normal that they are the favourites.”
In contrast, he reminded journalists that Milan have undergone significant changes.
Saying that “the Milan squad has changed a lot, with many good players arriving and blending with others of great value.”
Despite Milan sitting on 31 points and at the top of the table, Allegri urged caution.
He insisted that the club is still on a path of growth, stressing that “we are on a journey, and we must believe we can do our best, starting from the awareness that the objective is to return to the Champions League.”
The Milan coach also reiterated his trademark patience, adding that “the league is long” and that what really matters is “arriving in March in the best possible condition.”
Liverpool star vindicates BOLD Arne Slot strategy call
A lot of things have been said between Arne Slot and Mohamed Salah over the last week, and the media has indulged in making the most of the feud, speculating over which side is right and wrong.
In the end, a resolution to the situation between the club legend and title-winning head coach is what's best for all at Liverpool. And fortunately, we got a satisfactory resolution in the Brighton game, with the Reds securing a comfortable 2-0 win, extending their unbeaten run to five games.
Prior to the match, we knew that Salah was going to be involved in some way, having been added back into the Premier League squad, although the Egyptian starting as a substitute was a concern.
However, within the 90 minutes, Slot made a bold call which could've gone really badly. Instead, it proved to be a huge success, which should make the next month feel a lot happier for everyone.
Salah makes his EMPHATIC return
Just 26 minutes into the contest against the Seagulls at Anfield, right-back Joe Gomez was taken off for an injury - which was inevitable, since he unnecessarily featured against Inter Milan in midweek.
But instead of Slot looking towards Calvin Ramsay - instead of Conor Bradley, who was suspended this week due to breaching the Premier League yellow card quota - as the natural fit to replace the Englishman, he went attacking and gave Salah the nod.
At times, we struggled defensively, with Curtis Jones having to move in as a temporary centre-back, as Ibrahima Konate and Virgil Van Dijk shuffled across, but in general the team managed things well.
It was likely we'd get to see Salah make an appearance, but bringing him on at the earliest opportunity was special to see. It was the kind of backing from Slot that eliminates doubt.
Having the Egyptian leave for AFCON without feeling positive about his Liverpool future was a likely, possibility and it wouldn't have gone well. The speculation would've been rife and that helps no one.
Instead, the 65 minutes he got will have done him the world of good. And he was excellent in his attacking efforts, using the space Brighton left for him and getting stuck into countless attacks.
He had 0.3xg from three shots, created one big chance, made five key passes, one accurate cross, two long-balls, one tackle, four recoveries and three duels. One of the corners he took resulted in an assist for Hugo Ekitike's second goal and it polished off an outstanding display.
Whether Slot was right to not play Salah against West Ham, Leeds or Inter Milan, and only give him 45 minutes against Sunderland, is all up for debate, but the decision to play him against Brighton was more than vindicated, and it should ease the constant speculation in the press on their relationship.
Bringing the Egyptian on when he did took a leap of faith. You can't really ask for a clearer example of backing up a player, and after getting the opportunity, Salah tried his best to make the most of it.
Maresca has to clarify “worst” claim that will surprise fans after winless run
Chelsea cruised to a fairly straightforward win over Everton at Stamford Bridge today, a crucial victory to end a run of 4 games without a win.
Speaking after the game, Enzo Maresca made some pretty strong comments about how hard it’s been since the defeat to Atalanta on Tuesday night.
Maresca admits to “worst” period since he came to Chelsea due to lack of support
A Chelsea generic group celebration. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
“Since I joined the club, the last 48 hours have been the worst since I joined the club because many people didn’t support us,” the manager said.
As you’d expect, journalists wanted some more detail on what he was referring to, and the manager gave them this added detail which made it clear he wasn’t referring to a lack of support from the fans:
“Worst 48 hours since I joined the club because people didn’t support me or the team in general. I love the fans and we are very happy with the fans.”
Presumably he’s referring to what the media has been saying, as he’s always had big support from the club. This didn’t feel like as tough a period as the one he went through at the start of this year, when it really did seem he was under pressure, but clearly the coach sees things differently.
We have a big chance to win against Cardiff in the cup in midweek next week and build on this good feeling going forward.
It is a special game for the Spanish international, who will be making his 150th La Liga appearance for Barcelona at the age of just 23.
To be specific, Pedri has approached this landmark at the age of 23 years and 18 days, making him the youngest ever Barcelona player to play in 150 league matches for the club.
Pedri overtakes Messi but can the record last?
By doing so, Pedri has now overtaken the legendary Lionel Messi, who previously held the record of being the youngest player to achieve the feat.
Messi had made his 150th La Liga appearance against Real Zaragoza back in 2010. By the time he left Barcelona in 2021, he had accumulated 520 league matches for Barça.
1 - At 23 years and 18 days old, Pedri González will become the youngest player to reach 150 appearances for Barcelona in LaLiga, surpassing the previous record held by Lionel Messi, who played his 150th match against Real Zaragoza in October 2010 (23y, 121d). Icons. pic.twitter.com/GIStkxbhoo
Nonetheless, Pedri will go into the record books for being the youngest to achieve 150 matches in the league with Barcelona.
However, his record might not last for too long. While Messi’s record lasted 15 years, Pedri’s record could be broken in a matter of up to three seasons. That is because of a certain Lamine Yamal.
At the age of 18, Yamal has already featured in 123 competitive matches for Barcelona, among which 85 have come in La Liga. Tonight will be his 86th La Liga appearance.
By the end of this season, Yamal, if he can avoid injuries, can easily reach 100 appearances in the league for Barcelona.
From then on, if he can at least make 25 appearances on average for the next couple of seasons, he can break Pedri’s record at just age 20.
Chelsea vs Everton Player Ratings: Mykolenko and Gana endure a tough evening
Everton suffered a 2-0 loss to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge after failing to make their chances count.
The Toffees, chasing a first win at this venue since 1994, were struck with a major blow early on. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, involved in two goals in the 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest, went down with what seemed like a hamstring issue inside the first quarter upon his return to London.
Chelsea took charge of the contest shortly after through Cole Palmer, who was played through on goal by Malo Gusto. David Moyes’ side escaped with a let-off just minutes later, with Charly Alcaraz giving the ball away in a dangerous area. Alejandro Garnacho rounded Jordan Pickford but couldn’t guide his shot towards an empty net.
Between minutes 38 and 44, Everton had their best spell in the game. They had three opportunities to secure an equaliser during that period but failed to make them count, with James Tarkowski, Thierno Barry and Jack Grealish coming close.
The visitors were made to pay for their wastefulness just before half-time as Pedro Neto led a counter-attack before laying it off for Malo Gusto to finish.
Garnacho could’ve scored the third for Chelsea just 10 minutes after the restart after finding himself in acres of space but once again, the former Manchester United winger failed to keep his shot on target and ballooned it into the stands.
Grealish had a great chance to pull one back after meeting a delicious cross from Alcaraz at the far post. However, his shot, hit with the outside of his boot, went wide off the far post.
Iliman Ndiaye came closest to dragging Everton back into the game after he moved to the left following Grealish’s substitution. He weaved his way past a few defenders before trying to guide the ball into the far corner with his weak foot, only to be thwarted by the woodwork.
The overwhelming feeling after the game remains one of regret with Everton failing to make their opportunities count in a difficult contest where chances were at a premium.
Here are the player ratings from Everton’s 2-0 loss to Chelsea away from home:
Jordan Pickford: 5.5
While there was little Pickford could’ve done to avoid the opening goal, he should’ve done much better for Malo Gusto’s second just before half-time. He was caught off balance at his near post and his hand wasn’t strong enough to keep the ball out.
Jake O’Brien: 6
Jake O’Brien looked dangerous going forward late in the first half and found himself in acres of space on a couple of occasions. He sent a wonderful cutback into the box before half-time, but Ndiaye failed to get a proper shot off. Also played Gueye into space with a clever pass that could’ve led to the equaliser.
He was beaten for pace as Garnacho found himself through on goal from Robert Sanchez’s long pass but failed to keep his shot on target.
James Tarkowski: 6
Tarkowski did well to put Garnacho off for his attempt. He also had a free header from a brilliant Garner free-kick but couldn’t keep it on target in the first half.
Michael Keane: 6
Keane had a solid enough game of his own but the spaces between him, Gana and Mykolenko were exploited by the hosts during the game, largely in the first half.
Vitalii Mykolenko: 4
Vitalii Mykolenko was at fault for Palmer's opening goal after he failed to track his run into the box. He then got embarrassed by Pedro Neto at the stroke of half-time for Malo Gusto’s goal. Mykolenko, however, ended the game on a better note with a couple of forays and crosses into the opposition box.
Idrissa Gana Gueye: 4.5
Returning to the fold after a three-game ban, Gueye was at fault for both goals conceded by his side. He failed to block the passing lane to Palmer behind him and also let Gusto escape his attention close to the box.
Among his positives from the game were a great driven cross into the six-yard box that Barry couldn’t turn in and a strong challenge on Pedro Neto in the dying minutes.
James Garner: 6 (replaced by Tim Iroegbunam at 83’)
Garner had his hands full trying to keep the midfield ticking with Dewsbury-Hall going off and Gueye not being at his best. His free-kick from deep was brilliant and could’ve led to a goal had Tarkowski kept his header on target at the back post. Had
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall: N/A (replaced by Charly Alcaraz at 14’)
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s much-anticipated return to Stamford Bridge was unfortunately cut short as the player went down injured after 13 minutes. He came off to a standing ovation from both sets of fans at the ground.
Iliman Ndiaye: 7
Iliman Ndiaye endured a tough evening against Marc Cucurella, who escaped with a lot of physicality against Ndiaye, especially in the first half. However, he should’ve done better with the low cross from O’Brien across the box before half-time, but ended up wrapping his foot around it.
Ndiaye moved to the left after the Grealish change and had his side’s best chance of the game offensively when he wriggled past a couple of defenders before seeing his shot come back off the far post.
Thierno Barry: 5.5 (replaced by Beto at 68’)
Barry had a great chance to equalise before half-time from Gana’s driven cross but the ball ended up going through his legs following Robert Sanchez’s touch. Had an anonymous game otherwise as he didn’t have a lot of opportunities to work with.
Jack Grealish: 5 (replaced by Tyler Dibling at 83’)
Not Jack Grealish’s night. He found himself in a great position inside the box just before halftime but instead of squaring the ball to his teammates in space, he tried to chip the keeper with no success. Grealish had another great chance at the 70th minute from Alcaraz’s cross into the box but he sent the ball wide off target trying to hit it with the outside of his boot.
Substitutions
Charly Alcaraz: 5.5
Gave the ball away in a dangerous position shortly after coming on with Garnacho missing an open net after rounding the goalkeeper. Sent a great whipping cross into the box but Grealish failed to score from that opportunity. The Argentine was found by Mykolenko in the box late in the game, but the Chelsea backline blocked his effort.
Beto: 6
Had only 10 touches of the ball after coming on and didn’t get a lot of chances.
Ekitike Gets 9, Wirtz With 8 | Liverpool Players Rated In Solid Win Vs Brighton
Liverpool welcomed Brighton and Hove Albion at Anfield earlier this afternoon as they looked to earn all three points at home in the Premier League. The Reds made a dream start to the contest and got their noses ahead in the first minute when Hugo Ekitike found the back of the net. Arne Slot’s men went into the half-time break 1-0 up on the scoreline.
Ekitike doubled his team’s advantage in the 60th minute as the Merseyside club earned a solid 2-0 win in front of their home fans.
Let’s take a look at how each Liverpool player performed during the clash against the Seagulls.
He made one good save at the back and did enough to keep a clean sheet.
RB: Joe Gomez – 7/10
Gomez secured an assist for setting up Ekitike’s opener, but had to be replaced in the 25th minute.
CB: Ibrahima Konate – 8/10
Konate was a rock at the back and would be quite pleased with the clean sheet.
CB: Virgil Van Dijk – 7.5/10
He put his foot through the ball when required and did enough to restrict the opposition from scoring.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 13: Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk and Curtis Jones of Liverpool talk to each other during the Premier League match between Liverpool and Brighton & Hove Albion at Anfield on December 13, 2025 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
LB: Milos Kerkez – 7.5/10
He came back to defend when needed and made one good chance going forward.
CM: Ryan Gravenberch – 7/10
Gravenberch caught the eye at times on both ends of the field.
CM: Alexis Mac Allister – 6.5/10
He was full of energy and running in the middle of the park, but there was no goal for him.
CM: Curtis Jones – 7.5/10
Jones was positive on the ball and made a few decent runs with it from midfield.
RW: Dominik Szoboszlai – 7/10
He worked his socks off on the right flank and performed his defensive responsibilities well.
ST: Hugo Ekitike – 9/10
Ekitike scored a brace to help the Reds secure a good win today. He deserves the man of the match award.
LW: Florian Wirtz – 8/10
He linked up play well with others around him but failed to register a goal.
Substitutes:
RW: Mohamed Salah – 7.5/10
He was a real menace in the final third and has got an assist to show for his efforts.
Chelsea regain control as Palmer leads 2-0 win over Everton
Chelsea steady nerves as Everton threat fades at Stamford Bridge
Chelsea found calm where there had been anxiety, producing a composed 2-0 win over Everton at Stamford Bridge to halt a four-game winless run. Against visitors who arrived in confident mood, the hosts leaned on efficiency rather than dominance, scoring twice before half time and managing the contest thereafter.
Everton set the early rhythm. Iliman Ndiaye twice tested Chelsea’s resolve inside the opening 20 minutes, while James Garner also threatened as the away side pressed high and played with conviction. Chelsea, edgy and loose in possession, looked momentarily trapped in the drift of recent weeks.
That changed with one sharp movement and a finish that carried a sense of relief around the stadium.
Palmer delivers moment Chelsea craved
Cole Palmer’s first goal since September arrived after 21 minutes, and it felt heavier than a routine opener. Managing a groin injury that has disrupted his season, the 23 year old met Malo Gusto’s pass in stride, took a touch, and steered the ball past Jordan Pickford at the near post. England manager Thomas Tuchel watched from the stands as the aptly nicknamed ‘Cold’ Palmer altered the temperature of the afternoon.
Chelsea’s confidence followed quickly. Everton’s authority ebbed, replaced by hesitation at the back and missed chances further forward. Alejandro Garnacho spurned an open goal after capitalising on Carlos Alcaraz’s loose back pass, shortly after Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall was forced off injured against his former club.
The second goal, just before the interval, carried the same theme. Pedro Neto’s cross caused uncertainty, and Gusto reacted quickest to double Chelsea’s lead. It was a reward for the right back’s energy, having already played a decisive role in the opener.
Everton chances but cutting edge missing
In the second half Garnacho scooped a close range effort over before making way for Jamie Gittens. Jack Grealish headed straight at the goalkeeper and later volleyed wide when a goal seemed inevitable. Ndiaye struck the post late on, while Trevoh Chalobah produced a vital block to deny Alcaraz inside the box.
The opportunities were there, but Everton lacked the precision that Chelsea found when it mattered. Superior finishing, rather than control, proved the difference.
Selection pressure and season context
For Palmer, the goal carried wider meaning. It had been 87 days since his last strike and three days more since he last scored in the Premier League. This was only his seventh appearance of the season, following two understandably rusty outings at Leeds and Bournemouth after more than two months out.
Before kick off, Enzo Maresca explained that Palmer now belongs to a group of Chelsea players who cannot start two games in the same week, such is the care required around his recurring groin problem. With Tuchel weighing World Cup options and competition fierce from Jude Bellingham, Morgan Rogers, Phil Foden and Eberechi Eze, every appearance counts.
Chelsea consolidated fourth place with this win. Everton remain eighth, having played a game more than most around them. For both, the margins felt clear, and on this afternoon, Chelsea took theirs.
Arsenal Starting XI vs Wolves: Confirmed Team News and Predicted Lineup
Arsenal vs Wolves Predicted Lineup and Team News
Arsenal welcome Wolves to the Emirates Stadium knowing that squad management, rather than tactics alone, may define the evening. With suspensions, fitness doubts and careful minutes planning, Mikel Arteta faces a familiar Premier League puzzle, how to balance risk and control while keeping momentum intact.
The visit of Wolves should offer Arsenal an opportunity to consolidate their position, but the context matters. This is a side carrying knocks in key areas, navigating December congestion and leaning heavily on its depth. The Predicted Lineup therefore tells a broader story about how Arteta sees this phase of the season.
Defensive questions shape Arsenal selection
Riccardo Calafiori’s suspension removes one of Arsenal’s more reliable recent performers, forcing a change at left back. Myles Lewis Skelly is expected to step in, a significant responsibility against a Wolves side that looks to exploit wide areas quickly.
The greater concern sits centrally. William Saliba remains a doubt, and Arteta has offered limited clarity on his availability.
“[Saliba] hasn’t trained with us yet,” said Arsenal boss Arteta on Friday morning. “We have an extra day, we train this afternoon. Let’s see if he can be available or not.
“If you asked me [about the] Everton game [next weekend], I think he will be fit. For tomorrow, I don’t know.
“It came from an ankle injury that he had and then it started to modify the way he was running and all that. He started to overload an area, which is something common.”
Photo IMAGO
If Saliba misses out, Jurrien Timber partnering Piero Hincapie becomes the likely solution, provided Timber proves his own fitness. It is not ideal, but it reflects Arsenal’s willingness to trust versatile defenders rather than overhaul the system.
Midfield balance without Rice urgency
Declan Rice’s illness places another variable into the equation, yet this is one area where Arsenal can afford patience. Arteta has alternatives, and the option to deploy Eberechi Eze, Martin Odegaard and Martin Zubimendi together brings a technical, possession focused feel.
That trio has precedent. Earlier this season, Arsenal used Eze and Odegaard as dual No8s against West Ham, prioritising ball progression and control between the lines. Against Wolves, who are comfortable without the ball, that approach could again make sense.
Attacking rotation against Wolves
Up front, Viktor Gyokeres is poised to lead the line after building rhythm in midweek. His physicality and direct running offer a different reference point, particularly useful against deep blocks.
Bukayo Saka’s return feels inevitable after being rested in Belgium, restoring Arsenal’s most consistent attacking outlet. Noni Madueke’s brace against Brugge has strengthened his case to start again, even if that means shifting across the front line.
Arsenal’s Predicted Lineup reflects a team managing minutes rather than reacting to crisis, a subtle but important distinction as winter fixtures stack up.
Predicted Arsenal XI vs Wolves
Predicted Arsenal XI (4-3-3): Raya, White, Timber, Hincapie, Lewis Skelly, Odegaard, Zubimendi, Eze, Saka, Gyokeres, Madueke
Doubts: Rice (ill), Saliba (ankle), Timber and Trossard (both calf)Injured: Dowman (ankle), Gabriel (thigh), Havertz (knee), Mosquera (ankle)Suspended: Calafiori
Kick off is at 8pm BST on Saturday December 13, 2025, at the Emirates Stadium, live on TNT Sports.
Spalletti reacts to Elkann claims after offer to buy Juventus: ‘It’s up to us’
Luciano Spalletti is ‘happy’ to ‘feel the strength and passion’ of John Elkann but pushes the team to ‘give substance’ to the owner’s ‘passion.’
Juventus are preparing to visit Bologna at the Stadio Dall’Ara tomorrow, but the eve of the game has been shaken by the news that minority shareholders Tether have made an offer to buy a majority stake from Exor.
Spalletti’s response to Elkann’s message
NAPLES, ITALY – DECEMBER 07: Luciano Spalletti, Head Coach of Juventus, reacts during the Serie A match between SSC Napoli and Juventus FC at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on December 07, 2025 in Naples, Italy. (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Minutes before Spalletti’s pre-match press conference, Elkann released a statement through the Juventus website insisting that the club was not for sale: “We’ll continue to support our team and look to the future to build a winning Juve,” said the club owner.
“Even though I arrived only recently, it makes me happy to feel the strength and passion that John Elkann and family have for this club,” Spalletti said (via Ilbianconero.com).
“It is clear that it is up to us to give substance and concreteness to this passion, honouring the last and building a future on the same level, or even a better one, as John Elkann himself told us when he came to visit us.”
Spalletti and Elkann met on Friday
JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA – MARCH 09: Laurent Mekies, Team Principal of Visa Cash App RB embraces John Elkann on the grid prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Saudi Arabia at Jeddah Corniche Circuit on March 09, 2024 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Rudy Carezzevoli/Getty Images)
The Italian tactician revealed he had spoken to Elkann on Friday: “Yes, and I saw him too, a few hours ago, just yesterday,” he said.
“Sometimes, he sends me his thoughts, and I’m glad about it. In this case, he mentioned the future as well and clearly, as I said when I arrived, the objective is to always aim for the top when you are part of this kind of club.”
🤔 Row already settled? Salah makes surprise appearance!
The feud between superstar Mohamed Salah and Liverpool coach Arne Slot dominated the past week.
Due to his more than clear criticism, the Dutchman left the club legend out of the squad for the Champions League match against Inter.
Before today's Premier League clash against Brighton, the Egyptian at least returned to the squad. However, as in the previous encounters, he initially had to take a seat on the bench.
Much earlier than expected, Salah was allowed to enter the field. After just 26 minutes, he was substituted in for center-back Joe Gomez, who had to leave early due to a muscular injury.
Will Salah be able to make his mini-comeback with a goal? We will find out! In any case, the hero of last season was celebrated with chants by the Reds fans.
Jeremy Jacquet: Manchester United target being monitored by Real Madrid
Manchester United’s attempts to secure the signature of a highly rated French starlet may have just hit a roadblock. The Red Devils are alert to the emergence of young talents from across the continent as they attempt to assemble a squad capable of returning them to the pinnacle of success.
The Premier League giants have invested wisely in the transfer market since INEOS’ arrival at the Theatre of Dreams, and have spent over £200 million in the attacking and goalkeeping departments this summer.
While the midfield is likely to be the focus in 2026, United continue to keep an eye out for opportunities to reinforce other areas of the pitch.
A recent report relayed by The Peoples Person states that the Red Devils have set their sights on young Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet, who could be available for €30-40 million.
A very capable defender
Jacquet is now an established name in Rennes’ backline and has been scouted by United in recent months. The English giants are pleased with his performances so far, and are already considering a move for the Frenchman.
Jacquet has registered 15 appearances across competitions this season for the Ligue 1 side, all of which have been starts. Until his red card against Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) last weekend, the 20 year old had played every minute of every game in the league this season.
Jacquet is strong in the air, very capable with the ball, and has a mature head on his shoulders. The Red Devils already have a talented young French defender in their squad in Leny Yoro and are now eager to get their hands on Jacquet as well.
However, it now appears that the Premier League giants will face stiff competition from another European side in the race for the young defender’s signature.
Real Madrid want Jacquet
According to Fichajes, Real Madrid are keeping a close eye on Jacquet. The LaLiga giants are laying down succession plans for David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger, both of whom are in the final phase of their careers.
Although Los Blancos invested in Dean Huijsen, they remain interested in further reinforcements, especially with Eder Militao struggling to stay fit. Jacquet is exactly the kind of profile that Real Madrid have been targeting in recent times.
The player’s name is already part of discussions at Valdebebas, but they remain cautious in their approach, given the big leap in quality between Ligue 1 and LaLiga. However, the rising interest in the Frenchman’s services could prompt the Spanish giants to accelerate their pursuit.
Rennes, meanwhile, are relaxed about the matter, especially since they know they have a gem on their hands. Jacquet is under contract until 2029, so the French side have complete control over his future. United, as such, will have to move fast if they wish to win this race.
Final Thoughts
The Jacquet saga could evoke a sense of déjà vu among United fans. Around 18 months ago, the Red Devils were hot on the heels of Leny Yoro when Real Madrid threatened to ruin their plans.
However, the English giants held their ground and prised the young defender from right under the LaLiga giants’ noses. Fans will be hoping they can repeat the feat with Jacquet.
Featured image Christopher Furlong via Getty Images
📸 Cole Palmer scores first Chelsea goal since September against Everton
Chelsea star Cole Palmer has wasted absolutely no time in getting back up and running after an extended injury lay-off.
The England international sustained a groin injury back in August that was aggravated further when he briefly returned in September.
As a result, he was sidelined for a number of weeks and only recently returned to the starting lineup for the goalless draw against Bournemouth in the Premier League last week.
He sat out of the midweek trip to Atalanta in the Champions League due to load management, but is back in the fold today - and to great effect.
In the 21st minute at Stamford Bridge, Palmer made a dangerous run in behind the Everton defence and slotted home beyond Jordan Pickford to put the hosts in front.
Cole Palmer scores his first Chelsea goal since September 🥶
Orlando Pirates pip Carling All-Stars to Carling Cup glory
Bucs beat All-Stars to clinch Cup
Photo: Zakes Photography
Orlando Pirates secured a 2-0 victory over the Carling All-Stars team to clinch the Carling Cup at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.
The Buccaneers broke the deadlock in the 68th minute through youngster Sifiso Luthuli, who chipped Brandon Petersen in the All-Stars' goal.
Pirates doubled the lead 10 minutes from time as Boitumelo Radiopane unleashed a low drilled shot into the bottom corner.
As a result the Soweto giants became the first-ever League Cup champions to beat the All-Stars team since the inception of the exhibition match in 2023.
Stellenbosch FC lost in the inaugural match, before Magesi FC suffered the same fate last season - both against ex-Pirates coach Jose Riveiro.
Meanwhile, for Abdeslam ouaddou, this is the third trophy in the cabinet, having steered the Bucs ship to MTN8 and Carling Knockout Cup glory.
The 23-year-old's form continues to keep fellow summer signing Alexander Isak out of Arne Slot's starting lineup.
1 - Hugo Ekitike has scored Liverpool's first goal in the opening minute of a Premier League game since Naby Keïta netted their fastest ever goal in the competition after 15 seconds v Huddersfield in April 2019. Lightning. pic.twitter.com/RTDKCdjiel
TURIN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 21: General view inside the stadium prior to the Serie A match between Juventus and Napoli at on September 21, 2024 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Wearing a Juventus hoodie, he outlined their refusal for the present and the future.
Elkann makes it clear Juventus not for sale
Allianz Juventus Stadium (Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)
“Juve have been part of my family for 102 years, in the real sense of the word, because over the course of a century, we’ve seen four generations make it bigger, stronger, protected it during difficult moments and celebrated in the many happy times.
“That is not all. Juve are part of a much, much bigger family. The Bianconeri family. It is made up of millions of fans in Italy and around the world, who love Juve the way they love those closest to them.
“It is precisely thinking about this passion, this history of love that unites us for over a century, that as a family we continue to support our team and look to the future to build a winning Juve.
“Our Juventus, our history, our values, are not for sale.”
TURIN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 16: General view inside the stadium prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Juventus and Borussia Dortmund at Juventus Stadium on September 16, 2025 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)
While there had been reports in recent years that Exor were frustrated at the amount of money going into stabilising Juve coffers, especially in the wake of the accounting scandal over inflated transfer fees, they never really seemed amenable to the idea of selling the club.
Tether were only founded in 2014 and are a cryptocurrency company, who currently have an 11.52 per cent stake in Juventus and one member on the board of directors, Francesco Garino.
Mohamed Salah welcomed back by Anfield on his return 👏
The Pharaoh is back.
This Saturday afternoon, Liverpool hosts Brighton as part of Matchday 16 of the Premier League.
Although the match got off to a perfect start with Hugo Ekitike’s lightning goal, the Reds saw Joe Gomez get injured a little before the half-hour mark.
An injury that forced Arne Slot to rethink his plans and bring on... Mohamed Salah.
A week after his statements that sparked controversy and kept him out of the trip to Milan, Mohamed Salah was warmly applauded by the supporters present at Anfield.
It now remains to be seen whether this match will be the Egyptian’s last with Liverpool, as he will leave for the AFCON immediately afterwards and has cast doubt over his future for the winter transfer window.
Official: Barcelona star left out of squad to face Osasuna
A fresh absence has been noted in La Liga champions Barcelona’s latest matchday squad on Saturday.
This comes amid confirmation that Wojciech Szczęsny has been ruled out of the Blaugrana’s next outing at the last minute.
Barcelona are of course primed to return to action later this evening.
Fresh off a 2-1 downing of Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League in midweek, Hansi Flick’s troops have shifted focus back towards matters on the domestic front, ahead of a La Liga clash with Osasuna.
The Catalans’ panel of players for the Camp Nou matchup, in turn, was unveiled online a short time ago.
And as alluded to above, the headline absence came in the form of that of Wojciech Szczęsny, replaced for the day by youngster Diego Kochen:
As per an ensuing statement across Barcelona’s social media platforms:
‘The first-team goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny is a last-minute absence for today’s match against Osasuna due to gastroenteritis.’
MEDICAL REPORT ‼️
The first-team goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny is a last-minute absence for today’s match against Osasuna due to gastroenteritis. pic.twitter.com/DBlwVzs1De
Flamengo announce line-up for Intercontinental semi-final with surprises
Flamengo is set to face Pyramids in a single match for the semifinal of the Intercontinental Cup.
The game kicks off at 2 PM (Brasília time) this Saturday (13th) at Ahmad bin Ali Stadium, in the Al Rayyan district, Qatar.
Globo, SporTV, GE TV, and Cazé TV will broadcast the match. You can check out the main information live on the card below:
Flamengo Lineup 🔴⚫
Flamengo comes from a 2-1 victory over Cruz Azul. If they win, the club secures a spot in the final against PSG.
Filipe Luis only misses Allan and Viña - not listed for the Intercontinental. However, the coach makes changes due to fatigue.
There are THREE changes compared to the match against Cruz Azul: Léo Ortiz for Danilo, Samuel Lino for Cebolinha, and Bruno Henrique for Gonzalo Plata.
Pedro starts ON THE BENCH!
Rossi; Varela, Danilo, Léo Pereira, and Alex Sandro; Erick Pulgar, Jorginho, and Arrascaeta; Carrascal, Cebolinha, and Gonzalo Plata.
So, did you like the lineup? Leave your comment and prediction!
MENGÃO NO ESTÁDIO AHMAD BIN ALI! 🏟️
Às 14h (Brasília), o Flamengo enfrenta o Pyramids pela semifinal do Mundial. A vitória vale a Copa Challenger!
(Video): Cole Palmer scores first goal since September with calm finish after Malo Gusto assist
Chelsea lead 1-0 at Stamford Bridge!
It’s been a very dull opening 20 minutes, but from nowhere the Blues found a bit of quality to open up Everton and take the lead.
In reality it was a pretty simple goal – two straight passes cracked the Toffees team open. Wesley Fofana took the ball to the halfway line where he was able to play it into the feet of the inverting Malo Gusto.
Gusto then played another straight ball threaded between Everton full back and centre back to pick out Cole Palmer. The timing of the run and the pass were so perfect that it didn’t need to be anything special, just clever movement.
Palmer is only just back in the team and looked very rusty against Bournemouth last weekend, but his finish was anything but. It was the attacker at his very best, taking the ball in stride, stroking the ball past Jordan Pickford into the net and then celebrating a long awaited return to scoring form.
This is just what we needed to force Everton out of their deep block and hopefully open them up a little for our quick players to striker on the counter. Estevao Willian is lurking on the bench ready to pounce in the second half. Hopefully we get a little more Palmer magic before that change comes.
In the buildup to today’s game, Alejandro Garnacho talked about his role in the squad and the rotation that manager Enzo Maresca loves to indulge in.
Marc Cucurella has also been speaking ahead of the game, and has made it clear that everyone knows how big this game is for the Blues inside the building.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed that star midfielder Cole Palmer is still playing through pain from a lingering groin injury as the Blues prepare to face Everton in the Premier League.
The 23-year-old’s fitness has become a growing concern for Chelsea’s medical staff, who are treading carefully to avoid aggravating the problem further.
Palmer’s injury woes began in September, when he was forced off during Chelsea’s defeat to Manchester United with a groin issue.
What was initially expected to be a minor setback turned into a long-term struggle, sidelining the England international for some time.
Cole Palmer has been unlucky with injuries
Just as he neared a return to full fitness, Palmer suffered a freak accident at home, fracturing his toe and delaying his comeback yet again.
The combination of setbacks has disrupted his momentum after a strong start to the campaign, where he quickly established himself as one of Maresca’s key creative outlets.
‘With Cole, it’s just a matter of the more players you have that are good, the team is better,’ said Maresca, as reported by Metro.
‘In terms of the mixed feeling, he had a session with us, overall he was fine, but still it was a little bit painful.
‘He was feeling some pain in his groin. It’s something we need to monitor. Hopefully it won’t be for the full season, but it’s something that is a little bit day-by-day. You can see it is getting better and then some days it can be worse.
‘For instance, after Leeds it was completely bad the day after and he played half an hour. After Bournemouth it was okay and he played one hour. So there is not any sense to it, but it is the day-by-day that decides how he feels.
‘At the moment, absolutely he is in that group that can’t start every game.’
Cole Palmer in action for Chelsea (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)
Palmer’s return, even at partial fitness, could provide a much-needed boost as the club looks to reignite their push for a top-four finish.
Chelsea’s medical staff are closely monitoring Palmer’s workload, knowing the risk of recurrence remains high.
With crucial fixtures on the horizon, including Premier League clashes against Newcastle United and Aston Villa, the club must find the right balance between short-term gains and long-term fitness.
Fans will be wondering how to buy tickets for the Newcastle United vs Chelsea match next week, an encounter that promises to be a crucial one for the Blues and their chances of keeping pace with Premier League high flyers Arsenal and Manchester City.
Liverpool are reportedly preparing to make a decisive move for Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo once his £65 million release clause becomes active in January, according to The Mirror.
The potential transfer comes amid growing uncertainty surrounding Mohamed Salah’s future, as tensions continue to rise behind the scenes at Anfield.
With Salah’s situation becoming increasingly precarious, and Saudi clubs expected to reignite their interest in the Egyptian forward in the winter window, Liverpool are accelerating contingency plans to secure an attacking replacement.
Semenyo, one of the Premier League’s breakout stars this season, has been identified as the perfect fit for Arne Slot’s tactical system.
Liverpool are closely monitoring Semenyo
Antoine Semenyo in action for Bournemouth against Fulham (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
The Ghana international’s explosive pace, tireless work rate, and versatility across the front line have caught Liverpool’s attention, with scouts reportedly submitting glowing reports on his consistency and impact at Bournemouth.
Semenyo has contributed six goals and three assists in the league this season, ranking among the top performers for goal involvements outside the traditional “Big Six.”
His ability to press effectively and transition quickly aligns perfectly with Liverpool’s high-intensity playing style.
While Liverpool appear ready to trigger the clause, Tottenham Hotspur have also entered the race.
Mohamed Salah of Liverpool in action vs PSV (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Behind the scenes, Liverpool officials are aware that Salah’s future remains uncertain following his public criticism of Arne Slot’s management and reports of renewed interest from Saudi Pro League clubs such as Al Hilal and NEOM FC.
With Bournemouth keen to retain their prized asset, any deal will depend on whether Liverpool are willing to meet the full £65 million release clause.
Given the mounting pressure over Salah’s future and potential January bids from Saudi Arabia, Liverpool may have no choice but to act quickly.
Manchester United have completed the signing of 13-year-old defensive prospect Socrates, a highly rated youngster who has captured the attention of scouts across the country following his standout performances at Elite London Academy.
The move marks another major step in United’s renewed commitment to developing elite young talent under the direction of INEOS and football director Jason Wilcox.
Born and raised in London, Socrates’ path to Old Trafford has been anything but straightforward.
The young centre-back endured rejected trials at Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur, and Crystal Palace, setbacks that would have discouraged many players his age.
Instead, they became the foundation of his determination. His time at Elite London Academy, one of the most respected youth setups in the capital, provided the perfect environment to refine his game and mature both technically and mentally.
Man United win race to sign Socrates
Initially starting as a winger, Socrates was gradually converted into a centre-back by his academy coaches, who recognised his exceptional reading of the game, composure under pressure, and ability to play progressive passes out from the back.
Socrates impressed United’s scouts during a series of trial sessions earlier this year.
His leadership qualities and calmness in possession stood out and Man United made their move to add the player to their youth setup.
After weeks of monitoring, United decided to move swiftly to secure his signature, fending off interest from several Premier League rivals.
As part of his integration plan, the teenager will relocate to Manchester to join one of the region’s top-performing schools, ensuring a balanced approach between his academic education and football development.
This recruitment is part of United’s broader strategy to rebuild their academy pipeline, which has historically produced stars such as Marcus Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo, and Alejandro Garnacho.
Under the influence of INEOS, the club has doubled down on its youth-first philosophy, targeting technically gifted players from across the UK and Europe who can progress through the ranks.
While Socrates remains years away from first-team contention, his arrival reflects the proactive scouting and recruitment system now being refined at Carrington.
Sources close to the academy describe him as “mature beyond his years”, with a natural ability to lead and a confidence rarely seen in players of his age group.
Liverpool are entering a crucial four-week stretch that could define the club’s short-term future, with senior officials locked in intense negotiations aimed at resolving the fallout between Mohamed Salah and manager Arne Slot.
The situation has escalated into a dramatic internal standoff and the club’s hierarchy is determined to prevent it from spiralling into a full-blown transfer disaster.
A trusted source on X has reported that Liverpool’s leadership is in damage-control mode, fearing that Salah’s continued exclusion from the squad could seriously devalue their star asset.
The 33-year-old Egyptian forward remains one of the most marketable and valuable players in world football, but tensions with Slot, sparked by weeks of benchings and the player’s public criticism of the club, have sent shockwaves at the club and beyond.
Liverpool hierarchy is worried about financial hit
Liverpool’s board views the current standoff as “financially dangerous.”
Despite the board’s panic, Slot remains defiant. The Dutchman has reportedly told Salah in no uncertain terms that his place in the starting XI is no longer guaranteed, emphasising that selection will be based solely on performance and tactical fit, not reputation.
Slot is understood to have the backing of sporting director Richard Hughes, who believes the team must move forward with discipline and unity, even if that means tough conversations with senior stars.
Mohamed Salah in action for Liverpool against Nottingham Forest (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)
Still, Slot’s hard-line stance has added another layer of tension, especially as Salah’s representatives push for clarity about his role moving forward.
These talks are being described internally as a “peace summit”, with both sides eager to find a resolution that safeguards the club’s sporting and financial interests.
If an agreement cannot be reached, sources suggest the board may be forced to entertain offers in January.
Sunderland have plans to add to their squad in January, but there could also be players on their way out of the Stadium of Light. One of those that may end up moving on is Eliezer Mayenda, who has struggled for prominence since promotion to the Premier League.
Mayenda was a standout performer in the Championship, but since the arrival of Brian Brobbey in the summer, he has struggled for regular minutes. He is currently third in the pecking order behind Wilson Isidor and the Netherlands international, which has led to him making only eight appearances in the Premier League – three of those have been from the start.
Eliezer Mayenda in action for Sunderland. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
According to RTL/ntv and Sport.de (via Sport Witness), Mayenda is attracting interest from at least one club in the German top flight, who are as yet unnamed. His struggle for minutes this season is seen as an opportunity to sign the Spain U21 international, who could also be open to the move given his situation on Wearside.
Should Sunderland consider letting Eliezer Mayenda go?
It must be remembered that Mayenda is only 20 years of age, and while he did well in the Championship last season, the Premier League is a different kettle of fish. Regis Le Bris will be aware of this, hence his decision to not overly count on him.
It would make little sense for Sunderland to sell Mayenda, but were a loan move to be agreed, it’d be ideal for all parties. He needs minutes, and the chance to do that in the Bundesliga would surely be an opportunities that he would not turn down.
Leeds are expected to add to Daniel Farke’s squad in January, and the winger position is one they hope to address. The switch to a 3-5-2 in recent weeks has hammered down the squad’s struggles in this area of the pitch, which is why there is such a desire to make a signing or two here.
Noah Okafor was the only recognised winger brought to Elland Road in the summer, but he has struggled since his move from AC Milan. Two goals in 13 appearances is not what he or the club had hoped for when he replaced Manor Solomon, who was a sensation last season in the Championship.
In order to address these woes, Leeds may now turn to Solomon, who is having his own struggles this season.
Leeds interested in re-signing Manor Solomon
Manor Solomon helped Leeds win the Championship last season. (Photo by Harry Trump/Getty Images)
According to SportsBoom (via The Yorkshire Post), Leeds are hoping to re-sign Solomon in January. The 26-year-old has struggled at Villarreal, whom he joined on loan from Tottenham during the final days of the summer transfer window.
Solomon has managed only 10 appearances for Villarreal, who have preferred to use Alberto Moleiro on the left wing. Tottenham are considering cutting the loan agreement short, which would open the door for Leeds to get their man.
It is no surprise that Leeds are interested in Solomon, given his success last season. They wanted to sign him again in the summer, but a deal was ultimately ruled out, which is why he ended up in La Liga.
Solomon has shown himself to be a good player, but he is having a difficult time at Villarreal. It would make a lot of sense for him to return to Elland Road, and the club can also be said for Leeds.
Club admit disappointment as former Gunner makes AFCON squad
Blackburn Rovers have admitted they’re “disappointed” but “proud” after Ryan Alebiosu’s call-up to the Nigeria squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.
Photo by Charlotte Tattersall/Getty Images
Former Arsenal academy youngster Ryan Alebiosu is in line to make his international debut for Nigeria, having received a call-up to their final squad for the Africa Cup of Nations, which kicks off later this month.
It’s somewhat of a surprise to see Alebiosu involved in the squad for a major tournament, given he’s never played for Nigeria before. But with Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina still absent through injury, the squad needed someone comfortable at right-back.
Alebiosu is having a strong season with Championship Blackburn Rovers, to the extent that the club admitted they’re disappointed to lose him for the upcoming tournament.
Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images
Rovers’ statement read: “Whilst Rovers are disappointed to be losing a key player at such a crucial stage in the season, the club are proud of Ryan’s progress since he completed a summer switch to Ewood Park, which has seen him earn international recognition for the first time in his career.”
Alebiosu has started every one of Rovers’ 20 Championship fixtures so far this season, including the one against Sheffield Wednesday that was recently called off midway through.
The club confirm Alebiosu will remain available for this weekend’s fixture against Arsenal’s upcoming FA Cup opponents Portsmouth, but he’ll then link up with Nigeria.
Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images
Nigeria play their first AFCON fixture against Tanzania on December 23rd, before facing Tunisia on December 27th and Uganda on December 30th.
If the team continue to progress, Alebiosu could be unavailable all the way until January 18th, the date of the final. That would mean an absence of 7-8 club games, so it’s understandable that Rovers would be rueing their loss as they sit just five points clear of the relegation zone.
But for former Arsenal youngster Alebiosu, this is a big step in his career. To receive an international call-up is one thing, to be called up for a major tournament is another, and he’ll now hope to make his debut over the coming weeks.
Chivu: "We'll need to play a perfect game. We're having a good season"
Inter are preparing to return to action: the Nerazzurri will take on Genoa at 18:00 tomorrow, on matchday 15 of the league campaign.
On the eve of the match, at the BPER Training Centre in Appiano Gentile, Cristian Chivu responds to questions from journalists.
Kylian Mbappe may have finished the 2024/25 season without a collective trophy at Real Madrid, but his first season in white can be considered an individual success as he ran away with the La Liga top goal scorer award.
Now with Xabi Alonso in charge of Los Blancos, Mbappe will hope to involve teammates such as Vinicius Jr. more. Yet through the early portion of the new campaign, he looks to have picked up right where he left off, bursting out to a quick lead in the top goal-scorer race.
Celta Vigo, Real Madrid, Deportivo La Coruna, Granada
2
1947/48, 1951/52
Amancio
Deportivo La Coruna, Real Madrid
2
1968/69, 1969/70
Mario Kempes
Valencia
2
1976/77, 1977/78
Raul
Real Madrid
2
1998/99, 2000/01
Ronaldo
Barcelona, Real Madrid
2
1996/97, 2003/04
Diego Forlan
Villarreal, Atletico Madrid
2
2004/05, 200809
Who won the La Liga Golden Boot in 2024/25?
After securing a long-awaited move to Real Madrid, Kylian Mbappe won the 2024/25 Pichichi award by scoring six goals more than anyone else across the season.
While Mbappe's debut campaign in the Spanish capital was triumphant in this manner, he still garnered significant criticism that his presence hampered the team collectively despite the individual success. Real Madrid finished trophy-less while Mbappe's teammates struggled to adapt to his presence, leaving the individual award with a bitter aftertaste.
Rank
Player
Club
Goals (PKs)
Assists
Matches
Mins
1.
Kylian Mbappe
Real Madrid
31 (7)
3
34
2915
2.
Robert Lewandowski
Barcelona
27 (3)
2
34
2681
3.
Ante Budimir
Osasuna
21 (8)
4
38
2966
4.
Alexander Sorloth
Atletico Madrid
20 (1)
2
35
1560
5.
Ayoze Perez
Villarreal
19 (0)
2
30
1977
6.
Raphinha
Barcelona
18 (2)
9
36
2844
7.
Julian Alvarez
Atletico Madrid
17 (4)
4
37
2518
8.
Oihan Sancet
Athletic Club
15 (3)
1
28
1598
9.
Kike Garcia
Alaves
13 (3)
0
35
2550
10.
Cristhian Stuani
Girona
11 (3)
2
32
1059
Who won the La Liga Golden Boot in 2023/24?
Artem Dovbyk won the Pichichi prize as the top goalscorer in La Liga for 2023/24. Following the campaign, his enormous success earned him a move to AS Roma, garnering Girona a healthy transfer fee in the process.
Rank
Player
Club
Goals (PKs)
Assists
Matches
Mins
1.
Artem Dovbyk
Girona
24 (7)
8
36
2605
2.
Alexander Sorloth
Villarreal
23 (0)
6
34
2491
3.
Robert Lewandowski
Barcelona
19 (4)
8
35
2758
4.
Jude Bellingham
Real Madrid
19 (1)
6
28
2323
5.
Ante Budimir
Osasuna
17 (3)
2
33
2448
6.
Antoine Griezmann
Atletico Madrid
16 (4)
6
33
2654
=
Youssef En-Nesyri
Sevilla
16 (1)
2
33
2573
8.
Vinicius Junior
Real Madrid
15 (1)
5
26
1872
=
Alvaro Morata
Atletico Madrid
15 (0)
3
32
1909
=
Borja Mayoral
Getafe
15 (4)
1
27
2161
11.
Gorka Guruzeta
Athletic Club
14 (0)
5
32
2240
Who won the La Liga Golden Boot in 2022/23?
Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski won the Golden Boot in 2022/23 with 23 goals in 34 La Liga games as the Catalans won the title.
He finished four goals clear of Real Madrid's Karim Benzema in the Pichichi standings.
Predicted Teams Barcelona-Osasuna: Late absence for Hansi Flick
Barcelona host Osasuna at Camp Nou knowing that they could apply further pressure on Real Madrid with a win, extending the gap to seven points before they face Alaves. Los Rojllo secured a crucial win over Levante on Monday night, but are still just a point above the drop zone.
The Blaugrana are without veteran goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny due to a stomach bug, who is a late absence. That will definitively move Marc-Andre ter Stegen into the back-up spot, with Szczesny joining Gavi, Dani Olmo and Ronald Araujo on the injured list. Alessio Lisci is without Juan Cruz due to a cold and Iker Benito due to suspension, but otherwise has a clean bill of health.
#FCBarcelona host #Osasuna this evening at Camp Nou, with MD predicting Hansi Flick's reported shake-up to start today.
Wojciech Szczesny is a late absentee for the Blaugrana, joining Araujo, Gavi and Olmo on the injured list. Lisci is expected to set up with a back five. pic.twitter.com/6ugntczXxv
Ferran Torres and Marcus Rashford are the two changes expected from midweek’s win over Eintracht Frankfurt, and Sport coincide with that assessment.
Osasuna to go with a back five?
Where there is less consensus is over Lisci’s line-up. Osasuna are keen to address the worst away record in La Liga, which has yielded just two points from eight outings thus far. MD believe he will go with a back five, with Ante Budimir flanked by Ruben Garcia and Victor Munoz, after their decisive contributions against Levante.
Sport say it will be a back four, with Lucas Torro and Jon Moncayola in midfield. Part of Lisci’s debate appears to be whether to use Asier Osambela or Iingo Arguibide in the backline.
Erling Haaland is leading the way in the Premier League Golden Boot race.
Mohamed Salah equaled the Premier League record for goal contributions in a single season last campaign, scoring 29 goals to win the Golden Boot while pairing it with 18 assists to put himself in contention for the Ballon d'Or.
Brentford's Igor Thiago, Crystal Palace's Jean-Philippe Mateta and Brighton veteran Danny Welbeck are among the chasing pack. Igor and Welbeck made a marginal inroad on Haaland in matchweek 12, when City's star striker drew a blank in the 2-1 defeat at Newcastle. Mateta did likewise with a penalty in Palace's November 30 loss to Manchester United, but only after Igor Thiago bagged a brace in the Bees' 3-1 win over Burnley to move within three of the leader
The Sporting News details the chase for the Premier League top goal-scorer award, which will be a heated battle throughout the 2025/26 season.
Below are the top scorers in each season of the Premier League era (since 1992-93).
Andrew Cole and Alan Shearer saw their record for most goals in a Premier League season shattered by Erling Haaland in 2022/23.
Thierry Henry finished atop the Premier League scoring chart in four different seasons, more than any player all-time until Mohamed Salah equaled his mark in 2024/25. Shearer and Harry Kane follow with three scoring titles each.
Liverpool star Mohamed Salah ran away with the 2024/25 Premier League Golden Boot award, equaling the league record for most goal contributions in a season. The Egyptian scored 29 goals and assisted 18 more for a combined 47 total contributions.
Newcastle striker Isak burst onto the scene by finishing second with 23 goals, while ever-present Haaland was third with 22. Mbeumo and Cunha both secured moves to Manchester United in the ensuing summer by finishing in the top 10, while Chris Wood helped Nottingham Forest qualify for Europe with a sensational season of his own.
Rank
Player
Club
Goals (PKs)
Assists
Matches
Mins
1.
Mohamed Salah
Liverpool
29 (9)
18
38
3377
2.
Alexander Isak
Newcastle
23 (4)
6
34
2769
3.
Erling Haaland
Man City
22 (3)
3
31
2741
4.
Bryan Mbeumo
Brentford
20 (5)
7
38
3415
=
Chris Wood
N. Forest
20 (3)
3
36
2976
6.
Yoane Wissa
Brentford
19 (0)
4
35
2927
7.
Ollie Watkins
Aston Villa
16 (2)
8
38
2610
8.
Matheus Cunha
Wolves
15 (0)
6
33
2600
=
Cole Palmer
Chelsea
15 (4)
8
37
3195
10.
Jean-Philippe Mateta
Crystal Palace
14 (2)
2
37
2654
=
Jorgen Strand Larsen
Wolves
14 (0)
4
35
2599
2023/24 Premier League top scorer table
Erling Haaland secured his second consecutive Premier League Golden Boot in 2023/24 with 27 goals, despite a mid-season injury. He led Manchester City to another title, finishing five goals ahead of Chelsea's Cole Palmer, who surged with a record-breaking hat-trick.
Isak placed third with 21 goals. Haaland scored against all 22 league opponents and capped City's title with a double against Tottenham.
Rank
Player
Club
Goals (PKs)
Assists
Matches
Mins
1.
Erling Haaland
Man City
27 (7)
5
31
2556
2.
Cole Palmer
Chelsea
22 (9)
11
34
2624
3
Alexander Isak
Newcastle
21 (5)
2
30
2266
4.
Ollie Watkins
Aston Villa
19 (0)
13
37
3221
=
Dominic Solanke
Bournemouth
19 (2)
3
38
3331
=
Phil Foden
Man City
19 (0)
8
35
2865
7.
Mohamed Salah
Liverpool
18 (5)
10
32
2535
8.
Son Heung-min
Tottenham
17 (2)
10
35
2946
9.
Jarrod Bowen
West Ham
16 (0)
6
34
3020
=
Bukayo Saka
Arsenal
16 (6)
9
35
2933
=
Jean-Philippe Mateta
Crystal Palace
16 (2)
5
35
2283
2022/23 Premier League top scorer table
Erling Haaland won the 2022/23 Premier League Golden Boot with a new Premier League single-season record of 36 goals.
The City striker had built an insurmountable lead over Harry Kane (30 goals), who previously won the Golden Boot three times. Brentford's Ivan Toney was the other to hit the 20-goal mark, while the previous season's joint-top scorer Salah slowly rose up the ranks to fourth.
Rank
Player
Club
Goals (PKs)
Assists
Matches
Mins
1.
Erling Haaland
Man City
36 (7)
8
35
2,776
2.
Harry Kane
Tottenham
30 (5)
3
38
3,406
3.
Ivan Toney
Brentford
20 (6)
4
33
2,953
4.
Mohamed Salah
Liverpool
19 (2)
12
38
3,294
5.
Callum Wilson
Newcastle
18 (3)
5
31
1,885
6.
Marcus Rashford
Man United
17 (0)
5
35
2,888
7.
Martin Odegaard
Arsenal
15 (0)
7
37
3,143
Ollie Watkins
Aston Villa
15 (1)
6
37
3,134
Gabriel Martinelli
Arsenal
15 (0)
5
36
2,805
10.
Bukayo Saka
Arsenal
14 (2)
11
38
3,191
Aleksandar Mitrovic
Fulham
14 (4)
1
24
2,011
12.
Rodrigo
Leeds United
13 (1)
1
31
1,943
Harvey Barnes
Leicester City
13 (0)
1
34
2,718
2021/22 Premier League top goal scorer table
It came down to the final day of the 2021/22 season between Tottenham's Son Heung-min and Liverpool's Mohamed Salah.
Son's two goals at Norwich City on the final day allowed him to momentarily move ahead of Salah in the scoring table. But the Liverpool star came off the bench and netted late to catch Son, as the two stars shared the Golden Boot on 23 goals.
West Ham are planning to sign a striker in January, with Niclas Fullkrug almost certain to leave the London Stadium. A number of targets have been identified over the last few months, with one of those currently plying his trade in the Championship.
Fullkrug’s expected departure would leave Callum Wilson as the only recognised striker in Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad, but regardless, there has long been a desire within West Ham to address their number nine woes. The club have struggled to sign the right player for a number of years, but they hope to put that right in 2026 – and they could do so with Josh Sargent.
West Ham register interest in Josh Sargent
Josh Sargent of Norwich City celebrates scoring. (Photo by Stephen Pond/Getty Images)
According to GiveMeSport (via West Ham Zone), West Ham are keen on a January move for Sargent, whom Norwich are prepared to sell for a fee in the region of £17.5m. The Hammers want to sign a striker who is physical and has experience of English football, and the USA international would fit those criteria.
Sargent, who joined Norwich from Werder Bremen in 2021, has a relatively good record at Carrow Road, with 55 goals in 154 appearances across all competitions. He has struck seven times this season, with six of those coming in the Championship.
Is Josh Sargent the answer to West Ham’s striker woes?
Sargent would no doubt welcome a return to the Premier League, where he has experience with Norwich. However, he did not have the best record, which could be a concern for West Ham, who really need to finally find the solution in attack.
It remains to be seen who West Ham go for, but there will undoubtedly be a sense of desperation in their pursuit – which they cannot afford, given their struggles in recent years.
Tottenham managed to hold on to Cristian Romero in the summer, but there could be chances for him to leave in 2026. The defender attracted significant interest from Atletico Madrid, who still harbour hopes of bringing him to the Spanish capital alongside a number of his Argentine teammates.
Romero committed his future to Tottenham by penning a new contract in the face of Atleti’s interest, but while it was enough to stop a deal from getting done in the summer, the same cannot be made for the 2026 transfer window.
Tottenham set asking price for Cristian Romero sale
Cristian Romero of Tottenham (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
As per Tottenham News, former club scout Bryan King has revealed that Tottenham may accept a bid in the region of £60m for Romero, although there is no real desire for the defender to depart the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
“He’s only just signed a new contract, Romero. He signed an improved deal in the summer, and it’s made a big difference to his wage packet. He’s one of the highest-paid players at Tottenham, so it won’t be cheap to get him out. If Atletico think he’s going to walk out, they’ll have to think again.
“He’d cost £60-70m. The fact that he’s Argentinian and Diego Simeone’s Argentinian will have nothing to do with it. If Spurs don’t want to sell, then he won’t go unless a crazy offer comes in, that is what it will take.”
There has been a lot of plaudits in the direction of Micky van de Ven since he joined Tottenham, but there is a strong argument to suggest that Romero is more important to the club. He has been a top performer for a number of seasons, so if he were to depart, it would be a very big blow.
Liverpool have stepped up efforts to sign a replacement for Mohamed Salah, with Michael Olise among their leading targets. The former Crystal Palace winger has been in sensational form since joining Bayern Munich in the summer of 2024, and he could now be set for a return to the Premier League.
There is a lot of interest in Olise from officials at Anfield. A deal will not be cheap, but he is seen as the perfect successor to Salah, who could leave Liverpool as early as next month, now that he has fallen out with Arne Slot.
It will not be easy for Liverpool to sign Olise – not only because of the reported asking price, but the player himself may not be entirely open to joining.
Michael Olise keen on La Liga move amid Liverpool interest
Michael Olise lining up with the French national team (Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images)
According to TEAMtalk, Olise’s preference upon leaving Bayern Munich would be to join either Real Madrid or Barcelona. The 24-year-old intends to keep his options open for the future, and while he would consider a move to Liverpool, there are other clubs that could tempt him – with Chelsea also said to be one of them, given that he came through the ranks at Stamford Bridge.
There is little doubt that Olise would be a fantastic signing for Liverpool, but there will be reservations about paying another £100m+ fee in 2026, given that Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak have struggled since joining from Bayer Leverkusen and Newcastle respectively.
It will be interesting to see how serious Liverpool are in their pursuit of Olise. In terms of competition, they would face little from Barcelona due to their financial woes, although right wing is a position that Real Madrid may seek to address – especially if Rodrygo Goes, another of Liverpool’s reported targets, were to leave the Bernabeu.
Dybala to be benched fourth consecutive time vs Como
Three consecutive benchings that risk becoming four. Paulo Dybala is set to start once again as a substitute on Monday night against Nico Paz’s Como.
The Argentine’s form is still not optimal, as evidenced by the snippets of the games against Napoli, Cagliari, and Celtic. Gasperini also finds it difficult to leave out players like Lorenzo Pellegrini and Evan Ferguson, while the other spot in the attacking trio is reserved for Matias Soulé, who has also distinguished himself as one of the best players on the pitch in Scotland.
This isn’t a dismissal of Dybala, whom the coach considers one of the most important technical resources in the squad, but Gasperini needs more.
Currently, La Gazzetta dello Sport reports, the Argentine isn’t delivering what the coach expects—the renowned consistency that the former Atalanta player has repeatedly mentioned in his press conferences.
Meanwhile, some good news comes from the infirmary: after Angelino’s return, it’s Dovbyk’s turn, who will be back in the squad for Monday night’s match.
The Ukrainian striker’s return adds a new option to the attacking lineup, giving Gasperini more options for the upcoming match against Fabregas’ Como side.
Match facts: Blau-Weiß Linz v Rapid Wien (Bundesliga)
On Sunday at 2:30 PM, Rapid Vienna has an away game scheduled in the steel city against FC Blau-Weiß Linz. It is the last league match of the year and also the 31st competitive match of the season for the Viennese.
📅 Last Encounter
Rapid Vienna is likely to have mostly positive memories before the duel with Linz. At the Bundesliga opener in August, Green-White started the season successfully with a 1-0 home victory. The golden goal was scored by Petter Nosa Dahl, who, however, was injured during the week in the match against Omonia Nicosia and will not be available on Sunday.
⚽ Current Situation
Rapid Vienna currently holds fourth place in the standings and is five points behind the top of the table. With a victory against Linz, the Viennese could – depending on the results of their competitors – potentially overtake Linzer ASK and move up to third place.
Blau-Weiß Linz is currently at the bottom of the league and is already five points behind the second-last team (11th place).
Rapid has won four out of eight away games in the current league season. Only the champion Sturm Graz has been more successful away, having already celebrated seven away victories.
Blau-Weiß Linz, on the other hand, is not only at the bottom of the table but also the team that has collected the fewest points at home so far, with only six points from eight home games.
📊 Head-to-Head
Out of a total of 16 direct encounters, Rapid Vienna has won eight matches, while Blau-Weiß Linz has secured four victories. Five matches ended in a draw. This gives the Viennese the overall advantage – however, in the last two encounters, there was one victory for Rapid and one for the Linzers.
😳 📸 Messi's visit to India ends in chaos as police swarm stadium
Lionel Messi's visit to India got completely out of control this Saturday (13), with disorganized protests from fans that even required police intervention.
In the country for a special tour called “GOAT Tour India 2025,” a three-day visit including events in various cities and major tributes, Messi made a brief appearance at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, accompanied by teammates Rodrigo De Paul and Luis Suárez.
Surrounded by security and authorities, the Argentine had just enough time to take a brief lap to thank the audience.
This ended up irritating a large part of the fans present.
According to fan reports on the internet, the vast majority of fans couldn't even see the Argentine player, while VIP guests had privileged access.
#WATCH | Kolkata, West Bengal: Angry fans resort to vandalism at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, alleging poor management of the event.
Star footballer Lionel Messi has left the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata.
He then participated in the brief and tumultuous appearance at the Salt Lake Stadium.
Shortly after the incident, the Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, spoke out on social media with a strong statement.
I am deeply disturbed and shocked by the mismanagement witnessed today at Salt Lake Stadium. I was on my way to the stadium to attend the event along with thousands of sports lovers and fans who had gathered to catch a glimpse of their favourite footballer, Lionel Messi.
Cole Palmer is edging closer to a return to the Chelsea squad for the trip to Everton, after being rested for the European clash in Bergamo. However, the London staff are proceeding with caution, fully aware of the physical fragility that has accompanied the young England international in the early stages of the season.
Speaking to the media, Enzo Maresca confirmed his player's availability, though he didn't clear up all the doubts.
"Yes, he’s fine. He’s getting better. For the moment, he is available," he stated,
stressing that one final training session would be decisive ahead of the match.
Recently suffering from groin and toe issues, Palmer is not yet able to play back-to-back high-intensity matches. Nevertheless, his potential appearance at Goodison Park would be an encouraging sign for Chelsea, who are still searching for stability and continuity in their play.
Reason behind Barcelona defender’s lack of minutes despite being fully fit and available – report
Barcelona’s defensive picture under Hansi Flick is currently anything but stable, and yet, one leading question refuses to disappear – why is Andreas Christensen still not a regular starter despite being fully available?
A recent report from ARA provides important insight into a situation that goes far beyond tactics or fitness.
At present, Flick’s back line is being held together under complicated circumstances.
Inigo Martinez has already moved on, Ronald Araujo has stepped away indefinitely, Eric García is being used higher up the pitch, and Gerard Martin has been forced into action as an emergency solution.
Amid all this instability, Pau Cubarsi stands as the only consistent centre-back option. In theory, this should have opened the door for Christensen, but in reality, it has not.
What is the reason?
Within the club, there is a strong belief that the Danish defender possesses all the tools required to be Barcelona’s most complete centre-back. Yet match after match, Christensen has found himself watching from the bench.
While injuries have played a role at different points, the explanation goes deeper. Those close to the club indicate that the key obstacle is psychological rather than physical.
Andreas Christensen played the second half against Real Betis. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
Christensen struggles with pressure management and confidence, particularly in high-stakes environments.
Unlike his teammates, particularly Araujo, Christensen is reserved and introverted, but both share a fear of costly mistakes that weighs heavily on their performances.
The contrast between club and international football is telling. With Denmark, Christensen plays with freedom and assurance.
At Barcelona, the expectations and demands he places on himself create tension that sometimes affects both his decision-making and physical sharpness on the pitch.
From a purely footballing perspective, staff members continue to rate him highly. However, hesitation has crept into his game.
The fear of errors limits his willingness to step forward, break lines or take risks in possession, qualities Flick demands from his defenders.
Looking ahead, Christensen’s future remains open. His contract expires at the end of the season, and renewal talks have yet to begin. Despite the uncertainty, the defender wants to stay.
Ukrainian brilliance inspires Girona to priceless first away win over Real Sociedad
Real Sociedad 1-2 Girona
Ahead of Friday night’s clash at Anoeta, and improved Real Sociedad were looking to confirm the upward trajectory under Sergio Francisco, having previously seen his job under threat. Yet it was Girona who did so in a shock result in Donostia-San Sebastian.
La Real played with plenty of purpose in the opening stages, Takefusa Kubo frustrating the crowd with a loose finish after being sent through on goal. That was the best of the early chances created by the Txuri-Urdin, but Girona started to grow back into the game, finding Azzedine Ounahi at every opportunity. It was Viktor Tsygankov who tested Alex Remiro first though, the Spanish international making a swift flight across his goal to get fingertips to it.
Shortly after, Real Sociedad made the breakthrough though. Igor Zubeldia stepped in from his centre-back position to midfield to brilliantly take the ball out of the air, turn away from a defender and play the ball in behind for Goncalo Guedes. Michel Sanchez will have been furious that his defence not only parted like the Red Sea, but Paulo Gazzaniga’s soft hands welcomed Guedes’ shot into the net.
Ukrainian brilliance inspires Girona comeback
Image via Cordon Press.
From that point on, La Real began to look increasingly comfortable, with Girona struggling to produce much offensively, even if their hosts were not hurting them either. The game shifted with 14 minutes to go, when Tsygankov collected a loose ball just outside his own box to direct a cross-field ball into Ounahi in the La Real half. Backing up the quality with great desire, he then got on the end of Ounahi’s precise ball into the La Real box, controlling and then reaching high into the sky to loft the ball into the net.
The Txuri-Urdin never recovered from the shock, and Girona began to move the ball quicker and with more purpose. Eight minutes later, left-back Alex Moreno beat his man on the flank, but cut in on his weaker right side. Knuckling what looked like a shot across goal, Tsygankov was again undetected by the time he waltzed onto the ball and backheeled it in from close range.
The Reale Arena felt colder and more empty as the final seconds ticked away, and the reaction to the defeat at the whistle was glacial. La Real are now just two points clear of the drop, following a result that brings Francisco’s job back into focus. Michel’s Girona secured their first away win of the season, and with it, left the drop zone for the first time since Matchday 4.
Italy Starlet & Poland Midfielder Set For Chance In Inter Milan Trip To Genoa
Injuries and the looming Supercoppa Italiana are pushing Cristian Chivu towards rotation ahead of Inter Milan’s Serie A trip to Genoa, with Piotr Zielinski and Pio Esposito both emerging as strong candidates to start.
According to Corriere dello Sport, the pair are seeing their chances increase as the Nerazzurri look to manage workloads while remaining competitive at the Ferraris.
Zielinski is expected to step into the regista role vacated by the injured Hakan Calhanoglu.
Alongside him should be Nicolo Barella and Petar Sucic.
Indeed, giving Inter balance and legs in the middle of the park.
Inter Give Chances To Zielinski & Pio Esposito At Genoa
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 21: Francesco Pio Esposito of Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Sassuolo Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 21, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Further forward, Pio Esposito is pushing to start alongside Lautaro Martinez.
Meanwhile, Marcus Thuram is likely to be rested and Bonny faces competition for a starting berth.
Defensively, the absence of Francesco Acerbi means Manuel Akanji is set to operate as the central defender.
Therefore flanked by Yann Bisseck and Alessandro Bastoni.
The paper also notes that Diouf is hoping for an opportunity.
Indeed, having already shown he can “perform well even on the right flank” when called upon.
With rotation inevitable, Genoa could prove a key test of Inter’s squad depth.
Abdeslam Ouaddou explains why Pirates had a slow start
Interview
Ouaddou on Bucs' sluggish start
Photo: Zakes Photography
Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has explained the reason behind the Buccaneers' slow start to the 2025/26 campaign.
The Soweto giants suffered back-to-back defeats in the Betway Premiership at the beginning of the Moroccan's tenure, prompting a section of the Bucs faithful to call for his sacking two month into the job.
Ouaddou admits he felt immense pressure to turn things around, as expectations were high having succeeded Jose Riveiro, who won five domestic cup titles in three years with Pirates.
“When you lose two games of course, especially in such a big club, there is straight away a fire in the house, and you need to find solutions. So, of course I cannot lie to you and say I didn't feel the pressure. But I still feel the pressure in every games,” he said.
"When you don't have this pressure every games, you need to stop that job, this positive pressure helps you to deliver a performance and to be better and better.
The 47-year-old tactician attributed the sluggish start to having a plethora of new signings to integrate into the squad, and credited them for quickly grasping his style of play, which ultimately paid dividends.
“But on the other hand, if I go back a little bit to the beginning, when you have 10 new players, especially they need to get your ideas, your game model - I think the guys did well because quickly they got the ideas, they know exactly the expectations,” Ouaddou added.
"But sometimes in some clubs they take three, four months to adapt to the ideas of the coach. So, I'm quite satisfied about the way they reacted and it helped us to have some result.
Ouaddou has since guided Pirates to the MTN8 title and recently won the Carling Knockout Cup this past Saturday - the club's first League Cup triumph since the 2011/12 campaign.
Senegal's squad for AFCON 2025 revealed! (Official)
AFCON 2025: Senegal's squad is out!
Senegal's squad for AFCON 2025 revealed! (Official)
As the kickoff for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco draws near, Senegal has officially unveiled its squad, immediately reaffirming its status as a natural favorite. With less than ten days to go before the tournament begins, the Lions of Teranga display clear ambition and a roster built to target another continental crown.
The selected group highlights the depth of Senegalese talent, blending experienced leaders with strength in every position. Despite a few fitness concerns in recent weeks, the coaching staff has opted for continuity and solidity, relying on a generation still highly competitive at the top level.
With this squad, Senegal makes no secret of its intentions. The quest for a second star is underway, fueled by a dense, mature team accustomed to Africa's biggest stages.
📋 La Liste des 28 joueurs sénegalais retenus par le sélectionneur national Pape Thiaw pour la Coupe d’Afrique des Nations, Maroc 2025.
Liverpool have been plunged into uncertainty over the future of Ibrahima Konaté, with the French centre-back yet to commit to a new deal amid mounting interest from European giants Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid.
The 25-year-old’s contract runs until the summer of 2026, but his hesitation to extend has set off alarm bells at Anfield, forcing the club’s hierarchy to activate an emergency succession plan for one of their most important players.
Konaté has been a key figure in the Reds’ defensive structure when fit, forming a formidable partnership with Virgil van Dijk.
However, the player’s reluctance to open fresh negotiations have left sporting director Richard Hughes and manager Arne Slot contemplating the club’s next steps.
PSG are long-time admirers of Konaté, viewing him as a natural successor to Marquinhos, while Real Madrid have placed him on their defensive shortlist for 2026 as they look to refresh their backline, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.
With Liverpool’s defensive rebuild already overdue, Konaté’s uncertain future could accelerate the club’s recruitment drive.
Reds have drawn up a three-man shortlist
1. Jeremy Jacquet (Rennes)
The frontrunner is Jérémy Jacquet, Rennes’ highly rated 20-year-old French defender. Jacquet has been extensively scouted by Liverpool this season, with analysts impressed by his composure and leadership qualities beyond his years. Sources close to Rennes claim Liverpool scouts were in attendance for multiple Ligue 1 fixtures, convinced the youngster could develop into a world-class operator under Slot’s guidance.
2. Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace)
Another name firmly on the radar is Marc Guéhi, whose experience in the Premier League and status as a homegrown player make him an attractive option. The 25-year-old England international has been one of the most consistent defenders in the division, and Liverpool view him as a ready-made partner for Van Dijk. With Guéhi reportedly open to a new challenge, a deal could become realistic soon.
3. Nico Schlotterbeck (Borussia Dortmund)
Completing the shortlist is Nico Schlotterbeck, the 26-year-old left-footed centre-back from Borussia Dortmund. Known for his technical ability and confidence in playing out from the back, Schlotterbeck fits perfectly into Slot’s possession-based, high-pressing system. Ongoing contract issues between the player and Dortmund have not gone unnoticed at Anfield, with insiders suggesting Liverpool could pounce if negotiations break down further.
Liverpool are still hopeful of keeping Konaté
Ibrahima Konate in action for Liverpool (Photo by Christian Kaspar-Bartke/Getty Images)
Despite contingency planning, Liverpool’s priority remains extending Konaté’s contract. The club’s hierarchy believe he can be a cornerstone of their defense for years to come, particularly as Van Dijk approaches the twilight of his career.
However, with no breakthrough in talks and interest growing from abroad, the Reds are preparing for all outcomes.
Sources close to the club insist there is no immediate panic, but the upcoming months will be decisive.
If no agreement is reached before the summer window, Liverpool are expected to move decisively for one of their shortlisted targets to ensure defensive stability ahead of the 2026 season.
Everton have been handed a major boost in their hopes of landing a permanent deal for Jack Grealish next summer, with the Man City loanee said to be very happy with how his time on Merseyside has gone thus far.
Grealish arrived at the Hill Dickinson Stadium in August, and alongside the likes of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Iliman Ndiaye, he has been a standout performer for David Moyes’ side. He may have only registered two goals and four assists during his 16 appearances, but his overall performances have been very impressive.
Jack Grealish will prioritise Everton transfer next summer
Jack Grealish celebrates a goal for Everton (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
As reported by Football Insider, Grealish only wants to stay at Everton, with his desire being to reject all other options that could be available to him next summer – including a return to the Etihad Stadium.
Everton are able to sign Grealish for around £50m, as per a buy clause that was agreed with Man City. However, the fact that the player will only consider a permanent move to the blue half of Merseyside would make it likely that a lower price can be agreed, especially given that Pep Guardiola does not count on him.
How should Everton approach the situation with Jack Grealish?
It makes a lot of sense for Grealish to prioritise Everton, given how well he has settled into life there since joining on loan. There is very little chance that a deal is done for £50m, but it would make a lot of sense for Man City to cash in for around £25-30m, given that he has no future in Guardiola’s side.
Man United want to sign a new midfielder when the transfer window re-opens in January, and Conor Gallagher is one of their options. The former Chelsea man has struggled to nail down a place as a regular starter at Atletico Madrid, which has led to speculation on whether he will return to England.
Man United prioritising Adam Wharton over Conor Gallagher
Conor Gallagher of Atletico Madrid (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)
As per Football Insider, Keith Wyness has claimed that Man United will need to much more than £26m for Gallagher, given the interest being shown in his services. The former Everton and Aston Villa CEO does not expect Old Trafford officials to do that, given their preference to bring in Crystal Palace and current England star Adam Wharton.
“Well, I don’t know where that number has come from, because I think there’d be a bit of an auction for Conor, and I think you’re going to need to pay more than that if you were to get him. I think he’s still very happy in Madrid. He’s not getting the game time he wants, but he is enjoying being around the club and the whole thing. And they’ve had a reasonable run until last weekend, and they’re still lying fourth in the table, but still, it’s very close at the top of the table.
“If he was to come back there has been a lot of talk about United, but I think Wharton is going to be their favoured situation.”
Who should Man United sign: Conor Gallagher or Adam Wharton?
It does make a lot of sense for Man United to target Wharton over Gallagher, even if he will be significantly more expensive. He is younger, has a higher ceiling, and arguably, he would be a better fit for Amorim’s system alongside Bruno Fernandes in the centre of midfield.
Crystal Palace are exploring an ambitious January swoop for Tottenham Hotspur winger Brennan Johnson, according to The Telegraph.
Manager Oliver Glasner is eager to strengthen his attacking options as the Eagles look to push for European qualification in the second half of the season.
Palace have identified Johnson as one of several potential attacking targets, with the Wales international seen as an ideal fit for Glasner’s high-tempo system.
The 24-year-old has been admired within the club for some time, and his ability to play across the forward line makes him a versatile option.
Crystal Palace want to add more attacking depth
Glasner’s side have shown flashes of brilliance this campaign but have struggled with depth in attack.
Ismaila Sarr’s ankle ligament injury, coupled with his likely participation in the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal, has left Palace short of options in wide areas.
The Austrian coach is determined to bring in reinforcements to ease the pressure on his current attackers.
Since his £47.5 million move from Nottingham Forest in 2023, Johnson has had mixed fortunes at Spurs.
He wrote his name into club folklore with his Europa League final-winning goal, but under new manager Thomas Frank, the winger has struggled for regular minutes this season.
Brennan Johnson of Tottenham Hotspur looks on (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Reports suggest that Spurs’ stance will dictate whether a move materialises. Tottenham are not actively looking to sell Johnson but could be open to loan offers if they secure an attacking reinforcement of their own in January.
Palace’s interest in the Spurs winger underlines their ambition under Glasner, who has been backed by chairman Steve Parish and sporting director Matt Hobbs to add quality in January.
With Tottenham juggling domestic and European commitments, their willingness to sanction his departure, even temporarily, remains uncertain.
Arne Slot may have won his battle of wits with Mohamed Salah, but he remains under pressure as Liverpool manager. Recent wins over West Ham and Inter Milan have helped his cause, but with the defending champions 10th in the Premier League standings after 15 matches, it is imperative that regular wins are picked up over the coming weeks.
Liverpool host Brighton this weekend, before matches against Tottenham, Wolves and Leeds over the festive period. Should they fail to win the majority of these fixtures, there will be more questions about whether Slot deserves to be one to stay at Anfield.
If results do not continue to pick up, Slot could be on his way out, at which points candidates to replace him will be drawn up.
Steven Gerrard open to joining Liverpool as interim manager
Steven Gerrard on punditry duty during Liverpool 1-4 PSV (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Steven Gerrard is one possible candidate, with the Liverpool legend currently out of work. According to Football Insider, he would jump at the chance to come in and lead his former club on an interim basis.
The appointment of an interim manager would likely be Liverpool’s approach if Slot were to be sacked, given the lack of available candidates mid-season. Gerrard, who recently ripped into his former side, would be well-placed to come in, given his strong affinity with the club and its supporters.
For the most part, it has not worked for Liverpool this season. Things may have picked up slightly in recent weeks, but during this period, they still dropped points at home to Sunderland and away to Leeds United.
Slot still has credit in the bank after leading Liverpool to the Premier League title last season, but if they continue to remain outside of the top places in the standings, it would be no surprise to see him relieved of his duties as manager.
It is becoming increasingly likely that Kobbie Mainoo will leave Man United during the January transfer window, with the young midfielder still not in Ruben Amorim’s plans at Old Trafford.
It has been a season of struggle for Mainoo, who has still yet to start for Man United in the Premier League. In total, he has made 11 appearances, with 10 of those being cameos from the bench in the league, which has underlined his lack of importance for Amorim.
Mainoo’s situation has attracted strong interest from a number of clubs, including Bayern Munich. However, it is more likely that he remains in the Premier League, albeit not with Man United.
Chelsea ready to make move for Kobbie Mainoo
Kobbie Mainoo in action for Man United against Grimsby (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
As per Football Insider, Keith Wyness has revealed that Man United’s plans to sign Adam Wharton in 2026 will mean that Mainoo is pushed out of the door – and Chelsea are the most likely candidates for his signature.
“I think it’s very unfair and I think that Mainoo, look, he’s a squandered talent in that sense. I just don’t think he’s, for some reason, he hasn’t caught Amorim’s eye. He thinks he doesn’t fit the style. I think that they decided that Adam Wharton is going to be one of their targets and I think that Mainoo may find himself reinventing himself at Chelsea.
“That’s where I see the situation going and that’s the whispers I’ve been hearing. I think it would be good for Mainoo. I think he needs to get out of there and move forward.”
Will Man United regret letting Kobbie Mainoo leave?
There was a lot of excitement at Man United when Mainoo broke into the first team fold during the 2023-24 season, and understandably so. He looked like one of the best talents in England, as was shown by him starting for the national team at Euro 2024.
If he can recapture that form elsewhere, Man United may certainly end up rue his departure, were it to happen in 2026.
Napoli are keeping a close eye on Kobbie Mainoo’s situation at Manchester United, as the Italian giants continue to explore potential midfield reinforcements ahead of the January transfer window.
According to Fabrizio Romano, the reigning Serie A champions are “still very attentive” to the 20-year-old’s development and potential availability but United have made it clear they are not prepared to lose him in January.
With several midfielders from the Italian side set to participate in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in January, including André-Frank Zambo Anguissa, Napoli are eager to strengthen their midfield depth temporarily.
Can Kobbie Mainoo leave Man United in January?
However, the club acknowledges that signing Mainoo, even on loan, would be a complex operation.
Man United view the youngster as a key component of their future plans and have no intention of sanctioning his departure midway through the campaign.
With several senior players unavailable due to AFCON duties, including the likes of Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo, the teenager’s presence in midfield has become even more critical.
Amorim has reportedly blocked any transfer approaches, emphasising that Mainoo will play a pivotal role in United’s rotation through a congested winter schedule that includes domestic and European fixtures.
Liverpool told to sign Premier League defender in surprise move
Daniel Munoz, January dilemmas and Liverpool’s transfer crossroads
Liverpool drift towards January with a sense of unfinished business. Injuries, form and future planning have combined to make this winter window feel heavier than most. As Anfield Watch reported, one Premier League star has now been told that Merseyside, not Barcelona, should be his next destination. That advice opens up a wider conversation about what Liverpool actually need, and what they can realistically do.
January pressure points at Anfield
Liverpool’s squad planning suddenly feels exposed. Giovanni Leoni’s injury has left the defence stretched, while Ibrahima Konate’s contract situation lingers uncomfortably in the background. Add to that a run of results where performances have dipped sharply, and January starts to resemble a repair job rather than a luxury upgrade.
Photo IMAGO
Questions stack up quickly. Is a centre back required, possibly more than one. Does the midfield need steel in a defensive role. Or is the real issue higher up the pitch, where the long term handling of Mo Salah remains unresolved and Luis Diaz was never truly replaced. Windows like this test recruitment departments because urgency rarely pairs well with value.
Why Daniel Munoz attracts attention
Daniel Munoz has become a natural talking point. Crystal Palace’s Colombian wingback has been one of the most dynamic full backs in the league, offering relentless energy and direct running. He looks built for intensity, comfortable defending wide spaces and attacking them with equal enthusiasm.
That profile explains why Barcelona have been linked, but also why doubts exist. Juan Camilo Zuniga articulated those concerns clearly when he urged Munoz to stay in England and head for Liverpool instead.
“Because of Dani’s style of play, I would put him at Liverpool,” he told Caracol Radio.
“A team with a lot of attacking and box-to-box play would be a great fit for Liverpool because Dani is very active, so he attacks the spaces a lot. So, I would keep him in the Premier League.
“Yes, I would keep him in the Premier League because the slow, methodical style doesn’t suit him. He’s more of an attacker, looking to exploit space. Barcelona gives him a lot of possession, taking the ball there, bringing it back. It’s more of a premium style.”
Squad logic versus transfer temptation
Romance aside, logic pushes back. Liverpool are well stocked at right back with Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong, both capable as wingbacks. Spending heavily on another option feels indulgent when other areas are thinner. Palace, too, may have reached their limit, having already navigated serious interest in Marc Guehi and Adam Wharton.
Munoz looks every inch a Liverpool level footballer, but timing and fit matter. January windows punish sentimentality.
Credit to Anfield Watch for the original reporting.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
This report lands somewhere between excitement and scepticism for many Liverpool supporters. On one hand, Munoz feels tailor made for Premier League chaos, the kind of player you imagine flying into challenges at Goodison or surging down the flank on a European night. Fans crave energy right now, something to jolt a side that has looked flat and predictable.
But there is also concern about priorities. Right back feels like a solved problem compared to centre back depth or the growing anxiety around Salah’s future. Under Arne Slot, Liverpool are still defining their identity, and recruitment needs to reinforce that vision rather than add noise. Supporters remember too many January deals that solved nothing.
There is also fatigue around Crystal Palace links. It starts to feel repetitive, almost lazy, even when the player is genuinely good. Fans want clarity and decisiveness, not opportunism.
Ultimately, Munoz excites, but he also distracts. Liverpool need fixes, not flourishes. If January brings action, supporters want it to feel purposeful, calm and aligned with where the club is going, not simply a response to form wobbling at the wrong moment.
Report: Chelsea and Manchester City join the race for highly sought after free agent
Chelsea have joined the hunt for Bayern Munich centre back Dayot Upamecano, who’s out of contract at the end of the season according to reports.
The Blues had a busy summer investing in the squad, and are reportedly expected to be quiet in the January window.
However, with the window fast approaching Chelsea as is often the case have been linked with a number of players.
Chelsea join the race for Dayot Upamecano
The Blues have been linked with Noah Sadiki and Kees Smit, but whether they firm up any reported interested remains to be seen.
Centre back is an area that often gets spoken about, and Enzo Maresca publicly stated he wanted a replacement for Levi Colwill, who suffered an ACL injury before the start of the season.
Upamecano is out of contract in the summer. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
The report adds Manchester City are also interested and both clubs have held conversations about his possible arrival on a free transfer.
TEAMtalk state Liverpool, Barcelona and Real Madrid are also aware of the situation surrounding the Frenchman, and it looks like it could be a fierce race for his signature if he decides not to renew his contract with Bayern.
Fofana has got back to near his best this season, and has been carefully managed by Enzo Maresca following his injury issues.
After going off with an eye problem against Atalanta, Maresca confirmed the 24-year-old is fit for Saturday’s game against Everton, which is a major boost for the Blues.
1 September 2017: Gabon 0–0 Côte d'Ivoire — World Cup
2 September 2017: Gabon 0–3 Côte d'Ivoire — Friendly
5 September 2017: Côte d'Ivoire 1–2 Gabon — World Cup
7 June 2024: Côte d'Ivoire 1–0 Gabon — World Cup
9 September 2025: Gabon 0–0 Côte d'Ivoire — World Cup
Côte d'Ivoire vs Mozambique
The two countries have faced off seven times. The Elephants have emerged victorious on five occasions, with the other two matches ending in a stalemate.
7 March 1986: Mozambique 0–3 Côte d'Ivoire — Africa Cup of Nations
21 January 1996: Côte d'Ivoire 1–0 Mozambique — Africa Cup of Nations
29 January 1998: Côte d'Ivoire 4–1 Mozambique — Friendly
1 June 2008: Côte d'Ivoire 1–0 Mozambique — World Cup
7 September 2008: Mozambique 1–1 Côte d'Ivoire — World Cup
3 September 2021: Mozambique 0–0 Côte d'Ivoire — World Cup
13 November 2021: Côte d'Ivoire 3–0 Mozambique — World Cup
Jessica Motaung urges Kaizer Chiefs fans to support Bafana Bafana!
The director for marketing and commercial urges the public.
Jessica Motaung urges Kaizer Chiefs fans to support Bafana Bafana!
Kaizer Chiefs Marketing Director Jessica Motaung has called for unified national support as the South African national team, Bafana Bafana, prepares for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Speaking at the FIFA Twinning Programme held at the Johannesburg Correctional Centre on Wednesday, Motaung emphasized the importance of collective backing for the squad as they aim to surpass their bronze-medal finish from the 2024 tournament. The team is currently in a training camp at the High Performance Centre in Pretoria.
Bafana will play their final warm-up match against Ghana at Dobsonville Stadium on Tuesday before departing for Morocco the following day. The tournament begins on December 21, 2025, and concludes on January 18, 2026. South Africa’s Group B campaign starts against Angola on December 22 at the Grand Stade de Marrakech, followed by a key match against Egypt on December 26 at the Adrar Stadium in Agadir.
Motaung’s appeal for solidarity comes despite Kaizer Chiefs having no players in the final 25-man squad, with only Mduduzi Shabalala named as a standby option. The final selection is largely composed of players from rival clubs Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates.
"We are behind them [Bafana] all the way," said Motaung. "I mean, I’m very excited for Bafana. I’m very proud of our team. I will be there cheering them on, and I encourage the entire nation, the Khosi nation, to rally behind the team."
Arne Slot weakness EXPOSED and it's uncomfortable for Liverpool
Arne Slot's weakness
Liverpool have entered a rotten period of form this season. It's their worst run since the 1950s and they've struggled badly to get out of it.
Slot hasn't necessarily handled it well. Notably, he said he was 'confused' as to why it's happening, while we've seen Liverpool play out game after game with minimal changes to either the starting XI or the overall system.
Now, that has changed a little in recent games. Slot has gradually moved towards a 4-4-2 diamond, rather than his 4-2-3-1 - and it has brought a draw and a win.
But the lack of decisiveness we've seen maybe shouldn't be a surprise. As pointed out by the Athletic, Slot has essentially never dealt with a crisis like this.
His teams have always played well and any poor runs of form have been short. They haven't even been particularly bad before.
And so this is a weakness of his - Slot literally does not know the best way to get out of a situation like this. Klopp did, having suffered relegation with Mainz and enduring a very difficult final season with Borussia Dortmund, though one he did eventually turn around.
But Slot? This is all brand new and no one knows how well he can get things back on track. Now, this could be the making of him and perhaps the Dutchman takes lessons from all of this, figures things out, and is a better coach for it - that's the best-case scenario.
Until he's proven that, though, it's all just hope. And it isn't proving comfortable to endure.
A Look at Past Matches Between Parma & Lazio: Pedro’s Late Brace Saves the Day
This Saturday, Parma will host Lazio at the Ennio Tardini. While the Croaciati are determined to put some daylight between them and the relegation zone, the Biancocelesti are aiming to catch up with the European zone after dropping five points in their last two contests.
Needless to say, this fixture no longer holds the glamor it once possessed, particularly in the late 90s, when the two clubs used to boast some of the most renowned names in the sport. Nevertheless, their recent meetings still featured some exciting action and unexpected twists, as we’ll recall below.
Parma vs Lazio: Head-to-Head Record
The two clubs have shared the same pitch in 56 previous Serie A meetings. Lazio hold a clear advantage, having prevailed on 26 occasions. On the other hand, Parma won 15 matches, with another 15 ending in draws.
The Biancocelesti have also outscored their foes 78-57. Lazio legend Giuseppe Signori is this fixture’s all-time top goal-scorer with five goals, followed by Chile icon Marcelo Sala, who netted four.
Lazio Away Record vs Parma
Parma hosted the Aquile in 28 previous Serie A fixtures, winning on 12 occasions. On the other hand, Lazio were able to register nine wins away from home, while the two sides shared the spoils seven times.
History Between Parma & Lazio
Latest Parma Victory vs Lazio
Parma ended Lazio’s 11-match winning streak in this fixture across all competitions, as they surged to beat their visitors by three goals to one on December 1, 2024. Dennis Man broke the deadlock early on for the home side, while Anas Haj Mohamed pounced on another defensive howler to double the Ducali’s lead after the interval.
Parma vs Lazio | Where to Watch, Insights, Lineups & Prediction
Taty Castellanos restored the Biancocelesti’s hopes by halving the deficit, but Enrico Delprato killed off the contest with a counterattack in the 90th minute.
Latest Lazio Victory vs Parma
Lazio beat their visitors on January 10, 2021, thanks to two second-half goals. Luis Alberto broke the deadlock for Simone Inzaghi’s men in the 55th minute, while Felipe Caicedo secured the points by netting the second in the 67th minute, assisted by Sergej Milinkovic-Savic.
Latest Draw Between Parma & Lazio
On April 28, 2025, Lazio rallied back late in the game to salvage a point at the Stadio Olimpico. At that point in the season, Marco Baroni’s men were already out of steam, and Jacob Ondrejka pounced on the situation, scoring the opener in the third minute, and then completing his brace right after the restart.
However, Pedro came off the bench to score a brace of his own and spare his teammates the blushes.
"That was typical of John. He's a great lad. He was busy, flying around everywhere, wanting to take every throw in, every free kick."
But this was O'Brien's free kick, a moment that would etch into folklore. As he stood over the ball, his canary yellow and green outfit, the one United had borrowed from Brazil temporarily, glistening, hordes of Geordies behind the Roker End goal collectively breathed in. The anticipation was electric.
It was October 1992 and the Tyne-Wear derby was locked at 1-1. Gary Owers' early own goal had given United a lead, before substitute Gordon Armstrong had levelled for Sunderland with 69 minutes gone. Newcastle's hopes of an 11th straight league victory to begin the season were dampened.
"John said, 'where are you going to put it?'," O'Brien continues. "'Exactly where the goalkeeper is standing,' I replied. I was hoping he'd move a little."
As the whistle blew, O'Brien released his hands from his hips. One step. Two steps. Bang. "I couldn't have hit the ball any sweeter. I just hit it lovely over the wall, and it flew into the top corner to the goalkeeper's right. He never moved. He just watched it go in."
As O'Brien wheeled off in celebration and away supporters danced deliriously, the Fullwell End fell into a booming silence, stomachs smashing onto concrete steps. Sickening.
"When I got the free kick, I knew exactly what I was going to do," O'Brien says. "I practiced them. When I became a coach later, I'd tell players on free kicks that if they're not playing well and they don't fancy it, don't take it - give it to someone else.
"But if you're playing and you're confident enough, just take it. I was doing okay in the game and had played well in a few matches before that, scoring a few goals. Confidence was very high and I just stepped up."
Defeat in their next game at Grimsby meant United missed the chance to equal the English Football League record for most consecutive victories to start a season, but it mattered little. Come May 1993, they were Division One champions and Premier League bound.
Dubliner O'Brien, like so many youths, was raised on a diet of kickabouts with his pals, whether at local playing fields or simply on the tarmac separating houses. He loved his football and spent every spare minute playing. A talented Gaelic footballer, but he was never going to prioritise any other sport.
He played first for Cambridge Boys, and, when they folded, joined Stella Maris, a schoolboy club famed locally. Maris' alumni include more than 20 full internationals, amongst them recent United Hall of Fame inductee John Anderson and another former Magpie, Stephen Carr. Others include David O'Leary, Keith Andrews, Liverpool's Ronnie Whelan and 1968 European Cup winner Tony Dunne.
At 16, Maris, like his previous youth club, disbanded, but scout Kevin Healy took O'Brien to Bohemians, a leading League of Ireland club. For a few years he juggled football with a welding and fitting apprenticeship, during which time he broke into the Republic of Ireland's youth set up.
In the summer of 1983, O'Brien was visiting Toronto on holiday and a teammate at Bohemians, Pierce Walsh, was also travelling there for a football tournament. Walsh asked O'Brien to play, and he adjusted his travel plans accordingly.
"I did really well as a striker," he recalls. "It was easy for me to do quite well over there. I scored a lot of goals in the tournament, but we got beaten on penalties in the final."
However, O'Brien had impressed a scout from Cleveland Force Football Club, and he was offered an opportunity that was too good to pass: the chance to be a professional footballer. "Back in the 80s the country was on its knees," he says of Ireland. "There was no work for anyone. Everybody was emigrating. Financially, the whole country was gone. I was just thinking of my future."
Returning to Dublin, O'Brien was offered a semi-professional deal by Bohemian's manager, Billy Young. Much to Young's disbelief, O'Brien declined the offer and, as a result, was told to leave the club immediately rather than being allowed to train for a few months before his American move. "He left me in limbo," O'Brien admits.
Shamrock Rovers player-coach Noel King got wind of O'Brien’s situation and soon the newly-appointed manager Jim McLaughlin invited him to train with the club. When O'Brien departed for Cleveland, it was made clear that Rovers would welcome him back with outstretched limbs at any point.
"I just couldn't take to it (over there)," O’Brien explains of the first few weeks post move. The sun shone bright, but he yearned for the damp and cold of home. Within a month, with McLaughlin's words screaming like a Vuvuzela in his ear, he returned home.
Three seasons later, O'Brien was a triple title winner with Rovers, having also collected a pair of FAI Cup medals and made his international debut under Jack Charlton. As the 1986/87 season began, O'Brien had turned 22 and remained a semi-professional. His dream of a move to England or Scotland was, despite the hype and headlines, despite the rumours of interest from various clubs, rapidly horizon bound. Maybe he would have to settle for being a League of Ireland legend.
"Nothing was happening and I started to think, 'I've missed the boat here.' I was just concentrating on playing in the league but then we played Manchester United in a friendly and against Celtic in the European Cup. Next thing I know, Manchester United called Rovers saying they wanted me. Arsenal came in as well, but I was very pleased I ended up going to Manchester United, because I thought it was a better opportunity."
It was an opportunity O'Brien thought might go begging at one point, though. He travelled to Manchester with his father - also Liam but known as Billo - and Rovers' chair Louis Kilcoyne. Agents were not a thing back then, but the pair essentially acted on his behalf.
In Ron Atkinson's office at The Cliff in October 1986, O'Brien was offered £175 a week and jumped at it. Subject to a medical, the deal was done, but while that took place, Billo ambled around the facilities and bumped into Joe Hanrahan, an Irishman already with Manchester United. Billo, a trade unionist, asked Hanrahan what he was earning, and when the answer was £250, O'Brien senior was determined to achieve parity for his boy.
Having passed his health checks, O'Brien was re-united with his father outside Atkinson's office, with just a signature required. The media waited next door. "He told me, 'we're not signing for £175 a week' and I replied, 'I'm getting a chance to be a full-time professional. I'll sign for nothing.'
"But he told Ron that we weren't signing, and Ron was stunned. Ron asked what we wanted and he agreed. Dad and I used to joke later that we should have asked for £300!"
A month later Atkinson was sacked and so began the Sir Alex Ferguson-era. "Gordon Strachan had played under Ferguson previously and said he was very driven, could be intimidating at times, but he would give everybody a chance. He did that.
"For his first team meeting, he brought everyone into the gym and told them he would give us all a chance. He gave me my debut in the December. I'd only been there six weeks so I couldn't believe it."
Over the next few years, O'Brien found himself in and around the first team, making 31 appearances in total. But when the initial two-season deal expired in the 1988 summer, O'Brien was not happy with the £400 per week basic pay that Ferguson offered for renewal.
"I was doing okay, and I'd played a lot. I didn't want the money that Bryan Robson, or Strachan, or any of these top players was getting. I only wanted what I thought I deserved. I wanted £500 a week basic, but he offered me £400 plus £400 in appearance money and a car. Even if he'd said £500 basic plus £300 appearance money, I'd have taken it."
O'Brien and his partner were expecting their first born, and he wanted the security. However, the impasse led to quite the opposite: from 1st July 1988 he shifted to a week-to-week contract on his original terms. The lack of movement on the deal became a running joke between O'Brien and Ferguson, one that continued as the 1988/89 season began.
"Managers try and mess you around, but I just got my head down, worked hard, and played well in the reserves. He eventually put me back in the first team."
Following a man-of-the-match display during a 1-1 draw with Aston Villa at Old Trafford in early November 1988, just weeks after his daughter was born, he received a call from United expressing interest. They asked for a meeting and O'Brien swiftly agreed.
"I drove to Leeds and I met them at Hartshead Service Station," he says. "I'll never forget the name of that place. They offered me a three-year contract and upped my wages. They gave me six months accommodation free, a signing-on fee and a car. I thought I'd won the jackpot."
He signed instantly, stopping at the next service station en-route home to tell his partner to put their house up for sale. She was delighted, Ferguson less so. O'Brien got an earful and only a few years later did Ferguson mellow.
O'Brien already knew something of United via Republic of Ireland teammate Anderson. "I'd asked him what it was like before and he said it was massive, and that if you got things right there, the fan base was unbelievable."
He had also played at St. James' Park with Manchester United and "just couldn't get over the atmosphere. The noise was electric."
United were not in a great place when O'Brien arrived. Willie McFaul had just been sacked following a poor start to the season, and Colin Suggett was in temporary charge. Jim Smith arrived in the December but to no avail. United were relegated from the old First Division, finishing rock bottom, nine points adrift of safety.
From a personal perspective, O'Brien started slowly but got going in early 1989. He then broke his leg playing as an overage player for the Republic of Ireland's under-21s. Some questioned the merit of his participation, but O'Brien never balked at a chance to represent his country, whatever the level.
"It was a freak accident," he says of the offending tackle. "I was sent to hospital in Dublin in agony, but the X-ray showed it was only badly bruised." O'Brien was given a single crutch and sent on his way, hopeful, based on medical advice, that he would be fit for United's game with Arsenal that weekend.
But the pain was off the charts. He tried and failed to cry himself to sleep that night, and on landing back in Newcastle the following day had to get a taxi home rather than drive. Ghostly white, O'Brien was picked up for training the next morning but was swiftly re-directed to hospital. This time the scans revealed a huge crack in his leg.
"I was so lucky," O'Brien says, referencing the week-by-week deal he had started the season on in Manchester. "At least I had security for three years and the club were with me until I got myself fit."
Newcastle were relegated but started the following season well. O'Brien's leg healed but, soon after, he damaged his knee ligaments. He was restricted to just 14 league starts in 1989/90, with United finishing third in Division Two, largely thanks to a prolific partnership between Micky Quinn (32 goals in 45 league games) and Mark McGhee (19 goals in 46 league games). Toon hearts were broken, though, with a play-off semi-final defeat to Sunderland, with a 0-2 loss at St. James' Park following a 0-0 draw on Wearside. Swindon Town were to win the final, only for Sunderland to be promoted after the former were charged with 36 breaches of Football League regulations.
The following season brought mid-table mediocrity, with Smith leaving in March 1991. Argentinian Osvaldo Ardiles arrived as his replacement, but he lasted just under a year. "Ossie was brilliant and I loved playing under him," O'Brien explains. "I felt a bit sorry for him when he came in. He was told to cut the wage bill, so we lost people like Mark (McGhee). He couldn't bring in the players he wanted, so had to rely on youth: Lee Clark, Steve Howey, Steve Watson, Robbie Elliott. Those players would go on to have great careers but were a bit inexperienced at the time and a bit too young to get the club out of the situation we were in."
Ardiles was forward thinking, playing "a Christmas tree formation. A back four, one midfielder in front of them - usually me - two ahead of me and then a man behind the front two. He wanted the full-backs to be pushing on. It was very entertaining, but we conceded too many goals. Both full-backs pushed on at the same time and we were too open."
In November 1991, O'Brien scored the first of his two goals at Roker Park, a chipped 59th-minute equaliser. "People always ask me which goal was better," he says. "Probably the chip was better because I didn't have time to think about it. I saw the keeper off his line and just hit it. It worked perfectly."
But that would be a rare moment of warmth in a winter of much discontent. In February, United experienced a sliding doors moment. Former player Kevin Keegan, last seen departing in a helicopter after his final game as player in 1984, a man with 63 England caps, three First Division titles, a Bundesliga, a European Cup and two Ballon d'Or awards, came in as manager. He had spent the last few years sunning himself on a Marbella beach so there was, initially at least, if not scepticism, then some uncertainty amongst the playing staff.
"He was an absolute icon as a player," O’Brien says. "It was a big gamble for the club bringing him in, I thought. It was a gamble for him too - his reputation was on the line. If it didn't work out, that would be the end of him as a manager.
“He hadn't come from a club, who, for example, he’d got promoted. He’d just come off a beach, had no experience as a manager, and came into a struggling team. But it worked out brilliantly. He just changed the place. He was so charismatic. He had personality. He was full of enthusiasm, and he made players feel 10 feet tall. All credit to him.”
United’s last home game under Ardiles had been a 3-4 defeat to Charlton, with 15,663 clicking through the turnstiles. Keegan’s impact was instant, both on and off the pitch, with a 3-0 victory over Bristol City – O’Brien grabbed one of the goals – witnessed by 29,263 souls. “We just kicked on from there. You could see the club was going to change eventually.”
Come the final day, United were not safe, though. A 1-2 win at Leicester City sparked a pitch invasion, albeit results elsewhere meant they would have stayed up regardless. Not that the players knew that at the time. “And Kevin just said, ‘this is a massive club. It will never go through that situation again.’ Luckily enough it didn’t. The players loved coming into training.”
The 1992 summer saw Keegan bring in Paul Bracewell, John Beresford, Barry Venison and, come September, Rob Lee. It started with 11 consecutive victories, the last being at Sunderland courtesy of O’Brien’s free kick. Despite selling Micky Quinn in December, United won the division at a canter. O’Brien more than played his part, with six goals and 4 assists in 33 appearances, albeit frustratingly injury ruled him out of the end of the season.
As a reward, Keegan took the squad to Marbella, where they were joined one evening by James Bond. “Kevin said he had a special guest coming, and in walked Sean Connery. We couldn’t believe it. He sat down and had a chat with the lads. Kevin knew all the top celebrities!”
Premier League football had arrived on Tyneside for the first time, and O’Brien, having not played in the top tier since leaving Manchester, was buzzing. But Keegan, as brilliant and affable a chap as he was, also had a ruthless streak. David Kelly was sold to Wolves, Gavin Peacock to Chelsea and Alan Thompson to Bolton. Peter Beardsley returned to the club, while Nikki Papavasiliou was also signed in the summer.
O’Brien had piqued Tranmere Rovers manager John King’s interest and Keegan suggested he entertain the idea. “I hadn’t been in the team at the end of the promotion season as I had shin splints,” O’Brien says. “He explained that John King had been on the phone and wanted to sign me. I went down to chat to him and he was really pleasant. But this was in July or August and my wife and I were expecting in September. I didn’t want her up in Newcastle on her own while I was down in Tranmere.
“Plus, there was the fact we’d just got into the Premier League, and I wanted to have a go at that. I told Kevin I didn’t want to go and I’m sure if he’d put himself in my shoes he’d have done the same thing. John told me to call him if I ever changed my mind.”
O’Brien remained in the first team picture, coming off the bench on the opening day against Tottenham Hotspur, after which he was a whisker away from becoming United’ first ever Premier League goalscorer. But appearances were sporadic and when Southampton enquired about O’Brien’s availability in January 1994, Keegan again nudged him gently toward the exit door.
Instead, of moving to the south coast, O’Brien called King and would spend five happy years at Tranmere before finishing his playing career with first Cork City and, finally, Bohemians once more.
Post retirement, O’Brien enjoyed success coaching, working at Bohemians and Rovers, with a spell at Hibernian under Pat Fenlon. The pair reached two cup finals in Scotland, losing to Edinburgh rivals Hearts and Celtic respectively. At Bohemians, O’Brien won countless trophies. He now runs his own chauffeur service, but his legacy lives on in Newcastle, his name immortalised not in statute but in song. His derby goals, along with that of namesake Andy O’Brien (no relation), still form the basis of a popular terrace ditty.
“The free-kick game was on a Sunday and me and a few pals where I used to live went out for a few beverages that evening to celebrate. One friend said to me, ‘you don’t realise what you’ve done today, do you?’ I said, ‘yeah, I’ve scored the winner against Sunderland. It’s brilliant. I’m on top form.’
“But he told me I’d never be forgotten. I didn’t believe him, but they still sing the song about it 33 years later. He’s a season ticket holder and sometimes send me a video of it being sung. It’s lovely.”
The national team coach will unveil the squad list for the continental tournament, scheduled to take place in Morocco from December 21, 2025 to January 18, 2026. This is a crucial moment, closely watched by fans, as every decision made by the manager will be scrutinized in detail.
The Greens will continue their preparations at the Sidi Moussa Technical Center before heading to Rabat on December 19 via a special flight, fully immersing themselves in the AFCON atmosphere.
Here are the channels broadcasting Vladimir Petkovic’s press conference live from 3 p.m. (Algerian time):
Born in Geneva on 13 December 2004, Zachary Athekame came to the Rossoneri from Young Boys, providing a solid alternative in the right-back position. His journey at AC Milan began with the his debut in the 3-0 Winn over Udinese, and has made eight appearances this year, including a last minute equaliser in the 2-2 draw against Pisa at San Siro. One step at a time, with personality and the desire to grow, Zachary is consolidating his spot in the current side. Happy Birthday, Zachary!
Fearless Sunderland ready to test Newcastle’s European pedigree at the Stadium of Light
The Tyne-Wear derby returns to the Premier League this weekend with far more at stake than local pride as Sunderland host Newcastle United at the Stadium of Light.
It is the first top-flight meeting between the rivals in almost a decade, but this version of the fixture carries a different competitive edge shaped by Sunderland’s fearless start to life back in the division.
Rather than being overawed by promotion, Sunderland have been one of the most convincing teams to step up from the Championship in recent seasons and they enter this match above Newcastle in the table.
That alone underlines the scale of the task facing Eddie Howe’s side, even before factoring in the intensity and volatility that always defines this derby.
Sunderland’s ninth-place position reflects a side that has adapted quickly to Premier League demands, blending organisation with a willingness to take the game to established opponents.
They have already taken points off several traditional top-six sides this season and have built a strong home record that has made the Stadium of Light an uncomfortable place for visitors.
Last weekend’s defeat to Manchester City offered a reminder of the league’s unforgiving nature, but it did little to diminish the sense that Sunderland belong at this level.
Newcastle arrive off the back of a draining midweek trip to Bayer Leverkusen, where a late equaliser denied them a Champions League victory but extended their unbeaten run to four matches in all competitions.
That sequence includes a valuable away win at Everton, which steadied a campaign that had threatened to stall earlier in the season.
However, the draw in Germany also highlighted lingering issues, particularly Newcastle’s difficulty in closing games out, something that could be ruthlessly exposed in a derby atmosphere.
Despite their recent improvement, Newcastle remain just outside the top half and cannot afford to allow rivals, local or otherwise, to pull further clear.
The context makes this contest feel less like a meeting between a Premier League regular and a newcomer, and more like a direct duel between two sides chasing momentum.
Sunderland’s confidence, Newcastle’s European pedigree, and the emotional charge of the rivalry combine to create a fixture that resists clear favourites.
If Sunderland view this as another opportunity to confirm their legitimacy at this level, Newcastle will see it as a test of character and control in hostile territory.
In a derby that already guarantees intensity, the league context ensures this will be a tight, combustible contest where margins are likely to decide everything.
No registration conflict: Ter Stegen’s return won’t affect key Barcelona star’s La Liga status
Only a few hours remain before Marc-Andre ter Stegen returns to the Barcelona squad for a La Liga game, almost seven months after he sat on the bench at San Mames last season, in what was his last official match as an active player in domestic competition.
Now, the 33-year-old captain will be making his comeback for a La Liga game as Barcelona get set to take on Osasuna later this evening.
However, his sporting situation has not changed, injured or active, since Barça signed Joan Garcia this summer. Hansi Flick has made this very clear in his press conference.
“Joan is number one. That’s it. I’m not saying two or three. We have confidence in all three goalkeepers. We have no plans to replace Joan. He’s number one, and he’s doing very well,”Flick said ahead of the match against Osasuna.
The registration situation
Now, according to SPORT, beyond the sporting aspect, Ter Stegen’s return to La Liga will not have any administrative consequences.
This situation had still generated some doubts among Barça supporters, given what Ter Stegen’s return could mean for Joan Garcia’s registration, especially due to last season’s precedent involving Andreas Christensen and Dani Olmo.
A year ago, it should be recalled, Olmo only had his registration guaranteed until 31 December after Barça used the Danish defender’s long-term injury to register him for the first part of the season.
Ter Stegen is back. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)
This time, however, La Liga sources have confirmed that there is no conflict regarding Garcia’s registration. It has been guaranteed from the first day that he would be registered until the end of the current season, regardless of the German goalkeeper’s return to action.
The Spanish goalkeeper’s registration until the end of the season was never at risk, provided that La Liga’s medical commission, as indeed happened, confirmed more than four months of injury for the German.
It was not necessary to reach five months out to generate additional salary cap relief for the club.
The ‘Olmo case’ will not be repeated
Last season, the salary margin created by Christensen’s absence was not sufficient to cover Olmo’s full-season salary. His registration was left in limbo when La Liga initially rejected Barça’s attempt to increase their salary limit through the use of VIP boxes.
It should be remembered that it was ultimately the Higher Sports Council (CSD) that confirmed Olmo’s registration until the end of the season, along with that of Pau Victor.
In Garcia’s case, the league body confirmed his registration for the entire season. This is because this year the salary portion freed up by Ter Stegen’s absence was sufficient, without the need to re-register the summer arrival again from 1 January.
Brandon Petersen talks about not being called up for Bafana Bafana!
The Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper gives his honest opinion.
Brandon Petersen talks about not being called up for Bafana Bafana!
Kaizer Chiefs' goalkeeper Brandon Petersen has addressed his omission from the final Bafana Bafana squad for the upcoming AFCON tournament, despite a strong run of form. Petersen was included in coach Hugo Broos's initial 55-player preliminary list but was not selected among the final three goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams, Ricardo Goss, and Sipho Chaine.
This season, the 31-year-old has been among the top performers in his position, achieving nine clean sheets in the Betway Premiership and two more in the CAF Confederation Cup. Serving as captain for the Soweto giants this season, Petersen's performances were further recognized with his selection as the starting goalkeeper for the Carling All-Star team set to face Orlando Pirates.
When asked if his exclusion felt bittersweet, Petersen shared, "Is it bittersweet? No. At the end of the day, for me, yes, I want to be in the national team and represent my country. For me personally, my first and most important job is at Kaizer Chiefs."
He emphasized his professional priorities, adding, "They pay my salary. So that’s where I work. I always say that the only thing I can control is my performances at the club. I can’t control whether the coach of the national team picks me or not. That’s his job, you understand? Whether he picks me or not, I can’t complain about that."
Petersen concluded by reaffirming his focus, stating, "But obviously you want to be there as a footballer, that’s your aim. But for me, the main focus is obviously club level to try and be the best I can be."
Chelsea’s season continues to be shaped by uncertainty, and few situations capture that better than the ongoing fitness issues surrounding Cole Palmer. Enzo Maresca has offered a candid assessment of the forward’s condition, and while there is no immediate talk of surgery, the underlying concern is clear. Palmer remains unable to train and play without consequence, a worrying reality for both Chelsea and England.
The groin injury that has dogged Palmer for months has reduced his campaign to a frustrating cycle of brief appearances and recovery periods. With just six outings across all competitions and no full 90-minute performance since September, Chelsea’s most influential attacker has yet to build any real rhythm under Maresca.
Enzo Maresca’s frank assessment of Palmer pain
Maresca’s comments ahead of Chelsea’s clash with Everton revealed the unpredictable nature of Palmer’s condition. While the player is fit enough to start, his ability to complete a full match remains limited, and the physical aftermath of games varies wildly.
On whether Palmer will have to manage pain for the rest of the season, Maresca said: “Hopefully not. But it’s something that is a little bit day by day.
“You can see he’s getting better, [then] some days it can be worse. For instance, after Leeds, he was completely bad, the day after. And he played [only] half an hour.
“After Bournemouth, he was OK. He played one hour. There’s not any sense [to it]. It’s day by day that decides how he feels.”
That lack of predictability makes squad planning difficult and raises broader questions about how often Chelsea can rely on Palmer in high intensity periods.
Chelsea managing minutes and medical risk
Chelsea’s medical staff remain cautious. Palmer is one of several players, alongside Reece James, who the club believe cannot cope with three full matches in a single week without a heightened risk of injury. Maresca confirmed as much when asked directly.
“At the moment, absolutely yes,” he said.
Internally, there have been no discussions about surgery, despite outside opinion suggesting it may eventually be unavoidable. Maresca was emphatic on that point.
“No one mentioned anything to me about surgery,” he said.
For now, Chelsea are committed to careful load management, even if that means their most creative force operates below maximum capacity for much of the season.
England implications add further pressure
Beyond Stamford Bridge, Palmer’s situation carries international significance. England manager Thomas Tuchel is keen to include him in his plans for next summer’s World Cup in North America, yet Palmer has managed just 65 minutes in a single qualifier since Tuchel took charge in January, coming against Andorra.
Competition in the No10 role is fierce, and Palmer’s stop start availability does little to strengthen his case. A freak toe fracture suffered at home complicated his recovery further, although that issue has now healed.
Chelsea will hope that incremental progress turns into something more stable. Until then, Palmer remains a vital player treated with caution, a symbol of both Chelsea’s reliance on elite talent and the fragility that can undermine even the brightest seasons.
Arne Slot shares how Hugo Ekitike can improve despite strong Liverpool start
Hugo Ekitike leading Liverpool’s new attacking narrative under Slot
Hugo Ekitike has quickly emerged as the most productive of Liverpool’s 2025 summer arrivals, shaping the early attacking story of Arne Slot’s side. With eight goals across all competitions, the French forward goes into the weekend as Liverpool’s leading scorer, setting the tempo in a season where the margins at the top remain unforgiving.
While Alexander Isak continues to wrestle with fitness and consistency, Ekitike’s output has brought clarity to Liverpool’s forward line. His movement between the lines, willingness to run channels and ability to combine at speed have added thrust to Slot’s evolving system. Wayne Rooney recently underlined that impact, labelling the Liverpool number nine “brilliant”, praise that reflects growing recognition beyond Anfield.
Photo IMAGO
Slot’s demands remain high despite strong returns
For all the goals and acclaim, Slot’s message around Ekitike has been consistent. Development never pauses, even when the numbers look healthy. Speaking at the beginning of November, the Liverpool manager highlighted a specific area for growth, focusing on physical authority rather than finishing instinct.
He said: “That is what makes him [Ekitike] special, if you’re that tall and your footwork is as good as his.
“That’s what makes him special, if you’re so tall, he needs to be stronger in duels.”
Slot’s framing matters. This is not a critique of effort, but an invitation to become more complete. In a league where aerial battles often decide territory and momentum, Liverpool need their central forwards to hold their own when the game turns direct.
Aerial growth and tactical flexibility
Ekitike’s aerial work has become a recurring theme, particularly as Slot experiments with shape and rhythm. In his pre-Brighton press conference, the Liverpool head coach acknowledged progress, while making clear that improvement remains ongoing.
He said: “I don’t think height tells you a player is perfectly equipped for that direct style. Some are tall and struggle, others aren’t and dominate. Alex and Hugo, you can better use them in behind than long balls into their body.
“I see Hugo trying to do this better and better, but there’s room for improvement as there is with so many parts of our games.”
This nuance reflects Slot’s broader tactical thinking. Height alone does not guarantee dominance, timing, balance and anticipation often matter more. Yet as Liverpool face compact defences more regularly, especially at Anfield, the ability to vary approach becomes crucial.
Unlocking new options for Liverpool’s attack
Against Inter Milan, Slot’s use of a 4-4-2 diamond hinted at where Ekitike’s development could unlock further strengths. With play funnelled centrally and Mohamed Salah absent, Liverpool found greater scope to mix short combinations with longer passes. It was not about abandoning identity, but expanding it.
For that evolution to succeed, Ekitike and potentially Isak must continue to sharpen their aerial presence. Not every opponent can be pulled apart on the floor. Sometimes the direct route opens doors, particularly against low blocks designed to suffocate space.
Ekitike’s early return suggests Liverpool have secured a forward capable of growing with the team. Under Slot, improvement is both expectation and opportunity. If the Frenchman marries his technical quality with greater physical authority, Liverpool’s attack could gain an edge that proves decisive across a long season.
The Jediane Falcons will be hoping to break their long-standing curse in the 35th edition, though the task ahead looks daunting.
Sudan will compete in Group E, alongside Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, and Algeria.
Here’s a look at Sudan’s record against their Group E opponents.
Sudan vs Algeria
The two nations have clashed eight times in the past, with Sudan claiming two wins, Algeria securing three victories, and three encounters ending in a draw.
December 12, 1980: Algeria 2–0 Sudan — World Cup
December 28, 1980: Sudan 1–1 Algeria — World Cup
October 14, 1994: Algeria 1–1 Sudan — Africa Cup of Nations
April 24, 1995: Sudan 2–0 Algeria — Africa Cup of Nations
June 4, 2006: Algeria 1–0 Sudan — Friendly
December 1, 2021: Algeria 4–0 Sudan — FIFA Arab Cup
August 23, 2025: Sudan 1–1 Algeria — African Nations Championship
December 3, 2025: Algeria 0–0 Sudan — FIFA Arab Cup
Sudan vs Equatorial Guinea
Sudan has faced Equatorial Guinea twice, losing the first encounter by the narrowest of margins and the second by a 1-4 scoreline.
September 8, 2018: Equatorial Guinea 1–0 Sudan — Africa Cup of Nations
March 22, 2019: Sudan 1–4 Equatorial Guinea — Africa Cup of Nations
Sudan vs Burkina Faso
The two teams have met just once in the past. Sudan emerged victorious in 2012 with a 2-1 win.
January 30, 2012: Sudan 2–1 Burkina Faso — Africa Cup of Nations
“Can’t write anything off” – Mark Schwarzer tips Chelsea to sign Man City ace to replace £25m man
Former Chelsea goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer has admitted he wouldn’t be surprised if the Blues looked to pursue a deal for Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford.
The Blues opted to stick with their existing options of Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen, whilst they have talented youngster Mike Penders on loan at Strasbourg.
The Spain international is arguably playing the best football he’s played since joining from Brighton in the summer of 2023.
Trafford has seen his minutes limited following the arrival of Donnarumma. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
However, despite his improved form Schwarzer has labelled Sanchez inconsistent and wouldn’t be surprised if the Blues made a move for Trafford.
“James Trafford for Chelsea? You can’t write anything off,” he said as quoted on X.com.
“He’s got to go to a club where they are signing him as the number one. And of course, he’s got to perform.
“I think he needs to find a club, even if it’s on loan, between now and the end of the season where he’s going to play week in, week out and prove what a good goalkeeper he is.”
Robert Sanchez needs to work on his consistency
Schwarzer acknowledged Sanchez had made improvements this season, but feels his consistency is holding him back.
“When you’re at a big club, you need consistency. Look at Manchester United and Andre Onana, Man City and Gianluigi Donnarumma coming in and what he’s done already.
“I will say for Robert Sanchez, I think in the last six months, has improved dramatically. He hasn’t made as many mistakes as he had done previously.
“I think he’s made some big saves. The Club World Cup final, I think for me, was by far the best game he’s ever played for Chelsea. I think obviously there’s still some way to go.”
Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly open to parting ways with Yves Bissouma during the January transfer window, according to The Times.
The 29-year-old midfielder, once seen as a key figure in Spurs’ midfield setup, has endured a frustrating spell on the sidelines and now faces an uncertain future in north London.
Since joining Tottenham from Brighton & Hove Albion, Bissouma has shown flashes of his talent but has struggled to maintain consistency.
Despite an encouraging start under Ange Postecoglou last season, disciplinary issues and injuries derailed his progress, limiting his impact at the club.
OGC Nice and Olympique de Marseille are among the clubs showing concrete interest in the midfielder.
Both sides are exploring short-term and loan-to-buy options as they seek experienced reinforcements for the second half of the season.
Yves Bissouma of Tottenham Hotspur (Photo by Paul Harding/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Fenerbahçe, who previously made contact over a potential deal last summer, are once again monitoring the situation closely.
The Turkish giants are eager to strengthen their midfield options as they push for the Süper Lig title and view Bissouma as a player with the physicality and ball-winning ability to thrive in Turkey.
If a move fails to materialise in January, Spurs are reportedly prepared to offer Bissouma a short-term contract extension to protect his market value and prevent losing him on a free transfer in the summer.
While the club values his experience and professionalism, they are aware that he could seek more consistent playing time elsewhere.
As the January window approaches, the next few weeks will be decisive for Bissouma’s future.
Any hopes of seeing Mohamed Salah in Major League Soccer appear to be on hold for now.
According to The Athletic, San Diego FC, the MLS expansion team owned by British-Egyptian billionaire Mohamed Mansour, are not expected to make a move for the Liverpool superstar during the January transfer window.
San Diego FC’s focus remains on building a sustainable long-term project rather than pursuing marquee signings prematurely.
Mohamed Salah is unlikely to move to the MLS
The club is prioritising the recruitment of younger players from South America and Europe to lay the foundation for their debut campaign.
Despite MLS Commissioner Don Garber publicly stating that the league would “welcome Salah with open arms,” insiders maintain that the logistical and financial challenges of signing the 33-year-old forward make such a deal highly improbable in the short term.
An MLS move would involve not only a complex salary structure but also competition from multiple Designated Player slots, making it a poor strategic fit for a club still finalising its infrastructure and squad framework.
While San Diego may not be an option, Salah’s future remains a hot topic elsewhere. Multiple reports suggest that Saudi Pro League sides, including Al Hilal, Al Nassr, and Al Qadsiah, are preparing new approaches for January.
The Public Investment Fund (PIF)-backed clubs have made Salah their top target for 2026, viewing him as the ultimate marketing icon to elevate the league’s international profile.
For now, the likelihood of Salah swapping Anfield for America appears slim. San Diego FC’s leadership is focused on building from the ground up, not chasing global headlines.
A Saudi move, however, grows increasingly plausible with each passing week, especially as Salah prepares for the Africa Cup of Nations with Egypt and contemplates the next chapter of his remarkable career.
🗞️Today's headlines: Laporta, La Liga and much more
Barça wants to increase the gap in the standings against a Real Madrid that faces a crucial match tomorrow against Alavés.
While Madrid is rallying around their coach, Barça and Atleti want to put even more pressure on Xabi's team. The Negreira case also sneaks into the headlines, which are quite varied.
Liverpool lining up move to FINALLY replace Trent Alexander-Arnold
It looks like that is something Liverpool are considering. According to Calciomercato Liverpool are still interested in Italian right-back Marco Palestra.
The site claims the Reds tried to sign him in the summer and made a €20m offer that was rejected by Atalanta who wanted to loan him to Cagliari instead.
Since his loan Liverpool continue to monitor Palestra who has caught the eye this season. The right-back ranks in the 89th percentile among full-backs for assists per 90 minutes (0.21) and is showing he can be a real threat going forward, which is what Liverpool are missing.
A high intensity player, Palestra is also composed on the ball and he could bring those Trent esque long passes, attempting over four long passes per game, which is high for a full-back.
His biggest strength though is his ball carrying and his ability to surge forward.
He's in the 96th percentile for progressive carriers (3.76 per 90 minutes) and for successful take-ons (4.31 per 90 minutes).
So he's a very good ball carrier and that is another aspect where Liverpool are lacking at the moment.
At 20-years-old, he does have a really exciting potential. It feels like he could actually be the long-term solution for that right-back spot.
Palestra isn't that similar to Trent in terms of profile but he does have the potential to be a world-class right-back and therefore he could actually be the player to finally replace him in the team at Anfield.
The club's sporting director Richard Hughes has a lot of connections in Italian football. He signed Federico Chiesa and Giovanni Leoni during his time at the club already.
Today’s Papers – One billion to buy Juventus, Vicario wants Inter
La Gazzetta dello Sport
Offer for Juve
The crypto giants value the club at €1.1 billion. Exor: ‘It’s not for sale’
From Tether 725m for 65,4% of the club.
Vicario wants Inter
The Tottenham goalkeeper is getting closer. Dumfries’ warning.
Corriere dello Sport
Transfer market special
Gabriel Jesus, the bomb
The Arsenal centre-forward is back from an injury and can leave in January
Milan loom? Mainoo is open to Napoli. Lucca between Italy and abroad
Juve, Motta was better
Last season, they were closer to the top spot and had more points
The results in the opening 14 games have worsened with Tudor and Spalletti: fewer goals scored (18 to 22) and more vulnerable defence (14 to eight). Tether: ‘One billion ready for the club.’ Exor: ‘Not for sale.’
Lazio, Sarri looking for the tris: Cancellieri in the trident
De Rossi and Chivu, so many jokes
Tuttosport
Baroni, breakthrough or trouble
Under the eyes of the new director, the coach must send a strong signal after three consecutive losses. Lecce’s win over Pisa made the Granata slip to the 17th spot. Fans will protest against Cairo before the game.
One billion for Juve, Elkann says no
Tether’s offer will be rejected
The crypto company that has an 11,5% stake in the club aims for a majority stake. ‘Offer made with humility and a sense of belonging for the club and the fans.’ But Exor says no. Besides Ardoino’s move, there’s no confirmation regarding the desire to sell Juve. Yildiz’s family in Turin to negotiate the renewal. According to CIES, Kenan will be worth 140m in June.
‘De Rossi and Chivu two shy with success.’
Milan, Juve and Inter: ticket prices cap for the visitors
Bastia, Bordeaux, Rennes, Saint-Etienne: the Tunisian international has left his mark on Ligue 1 in recent years, playing 319 matches and scoring 75 goals.
Among them: that exceptional lob scored against FC Metz in October 2021. A 68-meter goal forever etched in the history of the French championship.
An incredible goal which, if you look closely at the stands, even shocked the Metz supporters present at the stadium that day.
Wahbi Khazri will now become a consultant for the Canal+ group.
🥐 Last dance, a huge Messi... 5️⃣ stories from this Saturday
Teams like Barça or Atlético de Madrid take the stage today, but there are also some interesting individual names.
Xabi Alonso plays for his future at Real Madrid tomorrow, today Barça and Atleti want to put even more pressure if possible. Meanwhile, Salah might say goodbye to Anfield today and there's a possible retirement on the horizon.
Xabi, second matchball
Tomorrow the coach from Tolosa plays for his future on the Real Madrid bench, and the defensive absences and physical doubts of some players are a significant handicap to consider.
Barça and Atleti, on stage
While the red and whites host Valencia at home, the blue and reds do the same with Osasuna. A victory for both would mean putting even more pressure on the white team.
Salah, last dance at Anfield?
Against Brighton, the Egyptian could experience his last match with Liverpool at Anfield following his latest words against the coach. Slot did not want to confirm if he will be part of the team or not, but today we might witness the last dance of a legend.
A 21-meter Messi
Y la estatua más alta del mundo es para...Leo Messi🤯🔥
🇮🇳📍Mide 21 metros, está en Calcuta (India) y se inaugurará este sábado cuando el campeón del mundo llegue al país junto a Rodrigo De Paul y Luis Suárez
In Kolkata, they have gone crazy over the Argentine's figure and have created a 21-meter statue to commemorate his title in the last World Cup. What do you think?
Ander Herrera, possible retirement?
"EN ESTE MOMENTO, ANDER HERRERA ESTÁ EVALUANDO SI SIGUE JUGANDO AL FÚTBOL O NO"
ℹ️ @PolloVignolo sobre la continuidad del español en Boca
Real Madrid open to selling 23-year-old midfielder; asking price set at €100 million
Real Madrid are beginning to reassess Eduardo Camavinga’s long-term role at the club, with a recent report from Defensa Central revealing that the hierarchy is no longer ruling out a potential sale of the French midfielder.
While there is no immediate urgency to part ways, the situation has evolved enough for the idea to be firmly on the table.
Camavinga’s undeniable talent has never been questioned. However, the recurring physical issues continue to hamper his progress.
Persistent problems and untimely absences have disrupted his rhythm, making it difficult for him to establish the consistency required at the highest level.
So what now?
This stop-start pattern has forced Real Madrid to take a more practical view.
The club still believes Camavinga can contribute significantly when fit, but there is also an awareness that prolonged inconsistency could ultimately work against both parties.
Real Madrid are open to selling Camavinga. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
As things stand, Camavinga’s future is not sealed, but the current campaign is shaping up to be decisive.
If he can string together games in the coming months, maintain fitness and reassert his influence, the conversation could shift back in his favour.
There is a price
If not, Real Madrid are prepared to listen. That does not mean a fire sale. Any potential exit would only be considered for a substantial fee, with figures close to €100 million being mentioned as a benchmark.
Given Camavinga’s age and market appeal, the club believes such a valuation is justified and achievable under the right conditions.
From a strategic standpoint, offloading Camavinga would generate significant funds that Real Madrid are keen to reinvest, not as a like-for-like replacement, but in a midfielder with a different profile.
The current priority is a true playmaker, and the funds generated through his sale can be invested in signing a new player.
Barcelona youngster back on Chelsea radar amid uncertainty – report
Chelsea’s long-standing habit of scanning Barcelona for midfield talent appears to be far from over.
According to a recent report from Fichajes, the Premier League side has once again turned their attention towards Marc Casado, identifying the young midfielder as a potential fit for their evolving project at Stamford Bridge.
The interest is not described as an advanced negotiation, but the renewed attention itself is telling.
Chelsea believe Casado possesses the versatility, tactical intelligence and technical quality required to adapt to the demands of English football.
Barcelona are used to it
For what it is worth, this is not an isolated case, as Chelsea have been monitoring Barcelona’s squad for months.
Previously, they explored several profiles across different positions and names, such as Fermin Lopez, Eric Garcia, Jules Kounde, and Ronald Araujo have all been linked at various stages.
Within that broad list, Casado is viewed as one of the more attainable options, both in sporting and financial terms, while still aligning with Chelsea’s long-term vision.
Marc Casado is wanted by Chelsea. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Previous approaches for Casado did not lead to concrete progress, but that has not discouraged Chelsea’s recruitment department.
From Chelsea’s perspective, persistence is key, especially when dealing with young players whose roles can shift quickly depending on form, injuries and tactical choices.
At Barcelona, Casado’s situation is delicately balanced. He has featured in 15 matches this season, many of them coming from the bench.
Yet, despite the speculation, Barcelona are clear that Casado is considered part of Flick’s project and a midfielder whose profile fits the club’s future plans. For now, the club does not see him as surplus to requirements.
That said, Barcelona’s management are realistic. They are fully aware that interest from clubs like Chelsea exists and understand how limited minutes can fuel transfer rumours.
While no formal offers have arrived, Casado’s situation is being closely monitored both in Spain and England.
“Could be” – Enzo Maresca non committal when asked important Reece James question
Enzo Maresca has stated he needs Reece James and hinted the England international could be ready to start three games in a week.
James has been managed carefully since returning from hamstring surgery, but it’s certainly paid off with the Chelsea captain now injury free for over a year.
The 26-year-old has put in some impressive performances this season at both right back and in midfield, where he’s played a number of games this season.
Enzo Maresca on Reece James
James is so important to Chelsea, and it’s great to see him back operating near his best, and it shouldn’t be long until he’s ready to play even more often if required.
“We need Reece, not only in this game, but in all games.”
James has rightly been praised for his form this season, and Chelsea are clearly a better team when he’s in the side.
Chelsea are blessed that they also have Malo Gusto, who’s a more than capable deputy if they want to rest James or he moves into midfield.
Cole Palmer still feeling pain in his groin
Whilst James is nearly ready to start three games a week, the same can’t be said for Cole Palmer, who’s only just returned from over two months out with a groin injury.
Premier League: What time and channel is Crystal Palace vs Manchester City on?
Everything you need to know about the Crystal Palace – Manchester City match
Crystal Palace – Manchester City/@BBC
Crystal Palace face Manchester City this Sunday as part of Matchday 16 of the Premier League. A crucial fixture at the top of the table.
Second in the standings with 31 points, Manchester City are just two points behind leaders Arsenal. Pep Guardiola's men have recorded 10 wins, 1 draw and 4 losses.
On the other side, Crystal Palace come into this clash sitting fourth with 26 points. The Eagles, with 7 wins, 5 draws and 3 defeats, are one of the surprise packages at the start of the season.
We can expect a tactical battle between Oliver Glasner and Pep Guardiola, two of the finest minds in English football.
Date and kick-off time for Crystal Palace vs Manchester City
The showdown between Crystal Palace and Manchester City is scheduled for Sunday, December 14, 2025, kicking off at 14:00 GMT at Selhurst Park.
Where to watch Crystal Palace vs Manchester City live
CONFIRMED: Liverpool favourite is back and ready to play
Liverpool take on Brighton this weekend in a massive game. Arne Slot has already confirmed one star is back and ready to play.
Liverpool hope to make it five games unbeaten on Saturday afternoon as they host Brighton in the Premier League. Of course, 'five games unbeaten' hides the overall performances, which haven't exactly been solid.
It features a 2-0 win over a blunt West Ham United before drawing with newly-promoted Sunderland at home and then newly-promoted Leeds United away. The most notable result - and performance - came against Inter in midweek as Liverpool went to Milan and came away with a 1-0 win.
That was undoubtedly a huge upgrade on what we've been seeing lately. It feels like something to build on, too, as Liverpool executed a gameplan properly for the first time in months.
They'll hope that brings some momentum and continued success against Brighton. A win would go quite a long way to turning the atmosphere around - especially with the Mo Salah's future complicating things.
So with that in mind, Liverpool have had a fitness boost at the right time.
Federico Chiesa is back
Liverpool weren't able to call on Federico Chiesa in Italy as he was ill. That was a blow, given Salah and Gakpo's joint-absence created a need for a new winger to step into the team.
Chiesa, though, is back. Arne Slot confirmed as much on Friday in his pre-match press conference, saying that Chiesa is training and should be good to go.
"Federico is not ill anymore," said Slot. "He trained yesterday and he trained today again, so I assume he's ready to be in the squad tomorrow again."
Crisis can be thrilling: Ex-German star eyeing club’s woes?
Mo Dahoud was actually already out. At Eintracht, he no longer played a role in the summer, he was no longer part of the club’s plans – all those common phrases applied to him one hundred percent.
This became especially clear when the plane with the Frankfurt team took off for the training camp in the USA last summer – without Dahoud. He didn’t get a ticket and was released to hold talks with other clubs.
All the other players who fell victim to the squad reduction in the summer quickly found new employers.
Dahoud, on the other hand – well, things got quiet around him. And stayed quiet. He didn’t find a new club, missed the training camp, but was back in Hesse for the season opener. Did he feel like the unloved son-in-law at a family dinner? We can only speculate.
He never showed his feelings outwardly. On the contrary. According to Eintracht coach Toppmöller, Dahoud never let himself go, wanted to fight through, and was “always there for the team.” As if he sensed that his chance would still come.
Crisis as an Opportunity?
Because when the club bosses sent such a clear farewell signal to Dahoud last summer, they hadn’t accounted for the crisis their club would find itself in just before the winter break.
On the one hand, there’s the injury list, which keeps getting longer and longer. In addition to Jonathan Burkardt’s absence, the injuries to Oscar Højlund and Michy Batshuayi have recently arrived as bad news in the Main metropolis.
On the other hand, the club, which was hyped up as Bayern’s main challenger in the summer, is really struggling on the pitch.
Defensively, 29 goals conceded in 13 games speaks for itself – you won’t find a worse defense in the league. But things aren’t going well up front either – the offense is partly injured, partly completely out of form. For example: Elye Wahi, who misses more chances from a few meters out than he collects as a scorer.
📸 Maja Hitij - 2025 Getty Images
Slowly but Surely...
Dahoud, meanwhile, slowly but surely stepped out of the shadows and back into the spotlight. At first, it was only enough for two short appearances. In the 1-0 home win against Mainz just over a month ago, the 29-year-old was on the tactics board for the first time in almost a year not on the sidelines with the bench candidates, but in the starting eleven.
The midfielder, born in Syria, didn’t set the world alight, but his 79-minute appearance meant a lot to him. After the game, he said: “For a footballer, there’s nothing better than being back on the pitch and winning together with the team.”
📸 KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV - AFP or licensors
Dahoud was also in the starting eleven in the 4-3 win against newly promoted Köln, delivered a solid performance, and even scored a goal. In the draw against Wolfsburg, he was at least substituted in; he “got to” experience the 0-6 thrashing in Leipzig from the start, and at Camp Nou he came off the bench. Aside from Eintracht’s total collapse in Leipzig, Dahoud has now played his way back into the team.
Will Dahoud Become the Face of the Turnaround?
This could continue – and maybe even get better. The midfielder could even become the symbol of Frankfurt’s turnaround.
How could that work? Dahoud needs to show his qualities on the ball again. He may not bring much pace, but he offers a lot of ball security and game intelligence to calm matches that threaten to slip away. In attack, he adds clever passes into the final third. Calmness and precision rather than high speed.
If he returns to top form, he can help. After all, Dahoud has rarely found himself left out for long.
He has already played 189 Bundesliga matches, 33 times in the Champions League, and especially shone at BVB with his possession and build-up play. For a short time, these footballing skills even earned him a call-up to the German national team under Joachim Löw – albeit only very briefly, but still.
The absence of Skhiri and Chaibi, who will be traveling to the Africa Cup of Nations, doesn’t make the personnel situation in Eintracht’s midfield any better – but it probably does for Dahoud personally. Both had recently often been preferred to him.
Dahoud is considered a seasoned pro and is still in his footballing prime. His qualities, combined with his ambition to prove his impact once again, and the situation at Eintracht, give him more than a good chance to secure a spot in the Frankfurt eleven after the winter break – and, in the best case, to become one of the faces of the turnaround on the Main. Now it’s all about how well he plays his cards.
What do you think – could Mo Dahoud become important in the coming weeks? Or is that too optimistic and do Krösche & Co. need to come up with something else for the midfield in the winter transfer window? Feel free to write it in the comments!
Werder Bremen vs VfB Stuttgart preview: Contenders or pretenders?
Werder Bremen
It feels like things have gone dark at Werder Bremen quite quickly.
They were feeling pretty good about life going into the end of November, in the midst of a five-match unbeaten run that included three consecutive home victories. Since then, though, Werder has been dealt some pretty bad breaks.
First was a trip to RB Leipzig and former manager Ole Werner. The performance wasn’t too bad, but they still ended up losing 2-0 on the day. Bremen returned home the following week, and they were moments away from clinching yet another victory until a deflected goal from the opposition in stoppage time.
It all came to a head last weekend. Die Werderaner took on their bitter rivals Hamburg in the first Bundesliga Nordderby in what felt like ages. They took the lead against the run of play to end the first half, but it all unraveled after the break. Some poor defending coupled with an awful showing from the referee led to three goals conceded before full-time, ultimately setting up a very frustrating 3-2 defeat.
For the first time in his short Bremen tenure, new boss Horst Steffen is under real criticism from supporters. His starting lineup has been questioned, especially since he hasn’t made any changes to it in weeks. Then, when the game is going, fans feel like he’s taking way too long to make the needed adjustments.
Star summer signing Samuel Mbangula has been reduced to short cameos off the bench. While injury issues play a part, he’s been publicly called out by Steffen due to an apparent lack of effort on the field. It’s a very similar story for Victor Boniface, who has not found any real form since a deadline day loan deal.
Something has to change for Werder, and fast. They aren’t playing too badly, but they’re not close to the levels they’ve hit in recent seasons. The team struggles moving the ball up the pitch, and their passing accuracy is woeful in the most important moments. They’re unable to create chances consistently, and the goals they do score come in quick moments via unusual means, mainly center midfielder Jens Stage.
These next two games, versus Stuttgart and then away to Augsburg, are going to be critical. Failing to win either will not only sink Bremen in the Bundesliga standings, but it will send supporters into a real state of panic. It’ll be too soon to push for Steffen’s firing, but there will be doubts on if he is the right man for the job.
A big-time performance from Werder here, though, would go a long way in calming the nerves of many in green and white.
Team news
The trio of injured Bremen fullbacks remain as Maximilian Wöber, Felix Agu, and Mitchell Weiser are still out, while striker Victor Boniface is unavailable due to a knee issue.
For Stuttgart, the last few weeks have showcased their inconsistencies.
Their recent results are either really solid or pretty concerning depending on the competition you’re looking at. In the league, VfB have not won a game in over a month. They conceded a stoppage-time loser to Hamburg despite being up a man, and then they gave up five goals at home against Bayern Munich.
In other tournaments, Stuttgart are doing better. They just defeated Maccabi Tel Aviv in the Europa League on Thursday night, putting four past the opposition. That result put them in 9th in that table, only one point behind the eight automatic round of 16 qualifiers. They also booked a spot in the quarterfinals of the DFB Pokal after beating VfL Bochum.
These showings are promising for Die Schwaben, but if they want to reach the levels they had before, they’ll have to start putting wins together. They sit in 6th, and they are just a single point from the top four. There’s so much talent in the squad that could be maximized.
Their squad depth will be tested once again since they are in three competitions at once. Stuttgart played only a few nights ago, but they did rotate the squad somewhat already. A few talents on that occasion might have put in a good word for themselves, so manager Sebastian Hoeneß will have a tough decision or two ahead of him.
At the very least they’ll have plenty of time to rest during the winter break, so might as well push through these last few weeks.
Team news
Stuttgart will need that time off due to their injury crisis. The likes of Justin Diehl, Dan-Axel Zagadou, Luca Jaquez, Noah Darvich, Yannik Keitel, and Ermedin Demirovic are all unavailable, while Lorenz Assignon is also suspended.
Predicted lineups
Nubel, Vagnoman, Al Dakhil, Hendriks, Mittelstaedt, Karazor, Stiller, Nartey, El Khannouss, Führich, Undav
Sources: Inter Milan captain dreams of playing for Barcelona
Barcelona’s long-term planning in attack is beginning to take shape, and a new report from Fichajes suggests that Inter Milan captain Lautaro Martinez has emerged as a name firmly aligned with the club’s future vision.
According to the report, the Argentine forward harbours a long-standing personal ambition to one day wear the Barcelona shirt, a dream he is now actively working towards fulfilling.
As such, the move is not expected to be immediate, but the summer of 2026 has been identified as the ideal window to make progress.
Within Barcelona, that timing is seen as strategic as the club is already preparing for a major transition up front, with Robert Lewandowski’s departure increasingly viewed as a matter of when, not if.
Replacing his output and influence will be one of the most delicate tasks facing the sporting department.
A perfect fit?
In that context, Lautaro’s profile stands out. Barcelona are keen to bring in a striker who offers guarantees from day one, particularly someone with experience at the highest European level.
Barcelona are interested in Lautaro Martinez. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
The Argentine ticks those boxes comfortably. Beyond numbers, he is a forward accustomed to responsibility, having captained Inter through demanding campaigns.
Those close to the player reportedly believe Barcelona would represent his preferred destination should he leave Italy.
What about Inter?
Inter Milan, for their part, are realistic about the situation. While Lautaro remains a central figure, there is an understanding that holding onto a captain who is mentally preparing for a new challenge can create complications over time.
As a result, a sale is not being ruled out if the right conditions are met.
Barcelona, aware of their own financial constraints, are counting on the player’s motivation to help shape a more favourable deal.
From Barcelona’s perspective, securing a striker of Lautaro’s calibre at the right moment could soften the impact of Lewandowski’s exit and inject immediate credibility into a squad still in the midst of a rebuild.
“I’ve had a lot of setbacks” – Kolo Toure opens up on Manchester City and coaching future
Kolo Toure – promoted into the Manchester City first-team coaching set-up over the summer – has opened up on his future within the role.
Since stepping into a more prominent position within Pep Guardiola’s backroom team, Toure has become an increasingly visible figure around matchday operations. His presence has grown further in recent weeks, particularly as he continues to support Guardiola and Pep Lijnders in handling a demanding fixture schedule.
City approach their Premier League meeting with Crystal Palace in strong form following a dominant 3-0 win over Sunderland and an impressive midweek triumph at the Bernabeu against Real Madrid.
Within an increasingly high-performance environment, Kolo Toure’s influence has quietly but steadily increased, with players said to value his energy and meticulous approach. His recent media responsibilities as he stepped in for Guardiola during Friday’s press conference underlines the trust placed in him and signal his further development as a coach.
Speaking to the media in place of Guardiola on Friday afternoon, Kolo Toure was first questioned on his experience so far in working directly alongside the Catalan tactician at the Etihad Stadium this season.
“Every morning I wake up and think I’m very grateful, very lucky to work with these two [Pep Guardiola & Pep Lijnders] fantastic persons. They’re fantastic coaches, but they’re great, great people,” Toure said.
He continued, “Working for Pep Guardiola was a dream because during my career I was always thinking, ‘There’s one manager I haven’t worked under who is Pep Guardiola’, and I was thinking how can I find a way to work with him?
“And then that opportunity came to work with the first-team, and I think it was a blessing for me. Every day for me is fantastic; he loves his players, his staff, passion for the game is high, he’s intense. We love him! He’s fantastic!
“Pep Lijnders, we all know about his energy, knowledge of the game. Honestly I’m very lucky to be able to work with those two fantastic people.”
Looking back on his previous experiences in management, including the short stint as head coach of Wigan Athletic, the former Manchester City defender insisted that while he does not know what the future holds, he is determined to add value at the Etihad.
“My experience at Wigan was the best thing to happen to me. During my life I’ve had a lot of setbacks; before Arsenal I had four or five trials, and those trials didn’t work. And that never stopped me. When I have setbacks, my feeling is to go again. That’s natural for me,” he said.
Toure explained, “The job I’m doing right now is fantastic because I’m working with two fantastic people, one of the best clubs in the world as a coach, and I’m taking all this experience right now.
“I don’t know what will happen in future, but as you know, when you’ve been a manager once, you always want to go back! For me, the process is fantastic and I’m learning every day, try to share my knowledge, experience, bring something to the team – I’m not here only to learn. I’m here to bring something as well.”
Looking ahead, Kolo Toure’s role at City could expand further and his involvement in press duties suggests Guardiola sees leadership potential in the Ivorian, while the club’s focus on developing elite coaches internally could position him for future responsibilities.
There is also the possibility that Toure eventually takes charge of a team himself again, following a path previously taken by several former City staff members. For now, however, Toure seems fully committed to contributing to City’s immediate ambitions.
Jadon Sancho: Man United flop continues career descent at Aston Villa
This season has probably not gone as planned in the mind of Jadon Sancho.
Failure to capture last season’s form
Nobody would describe Sancho’s form last season as scintillating, but he did manage to contribute quite effectively on loan at Chelsea.
He played 42 times in all competitions last season, scoring five goals and providing 10 assists.
Sancho also managed to score a goal in the Conference League final, which helped the Londoners overcome Antony’s Real Betis.
Chelsea surprisingly refused to pay their obligation to sign the winger, and Sancho was eventually sent out on loan to Aston Villa in the dying embers of the transfer window.
Falling flat
Aston Villa have been in tremendous form this season and are currently third in the table, just three points behind Arsenal in first place.
What’s more, they also sit joint top of their Europa League group after six matches.
Nonetheless, Sancho has been a peripheral figure at best this season for the Villans.
He has played in 13 games this season and has failed to register a single goal or assist. He is also regularly coming off the bench, only getting anything like regular starts in the Europa League.
Upset
The England international was hauled off again after 60 minutes in Villa’s 2-1 away win over FC Basel in Switzerland on Thursday night.
The Daily Mirror report, “as the change was made, TV cameras captured Sancho approaching the substitutes’ bench, clearly disappointed to be leaving the pitch. After acknowledging Emery, Sancho hit an empty seat in the dugout before taking his place on the bench.”
Future unclear
At one stage, it seemed possible that Villa would sign Sancho permanently, but the lack of game time suggests he is not a priority.
What’s more, the recent signing of Brazilian youngster Alysson from Grêmio makes it seem even more remote that Unai Emery’s side would sign off on a permanent switch.
Sancho’s current deal runs out at the end of the season, and it is thought that Manchester United will not exercise their option to add an additional year onto his contract.
Alaves boss unfazed by tricky Real Madrid clash – ‘I like facing the best’
Alaves head coach Eduardo Coudet has made it clear that he welcomes the challenge of facing football’s elite rather than fearing it, just as he prepares to host Real Madrid.
With Xabi Alonso’s side travelling to Mendizorroza under scrutiny following recent setbacks, the Alaves coach was careful not to read too much into Madrid’s current situation, instead stressing respect, focus and ambition.
Real Madrid head into this game with questions surrounding form and injuries, but Coudet made it clear that none of that alters the magnitude of the task facing his team.
For the Alaves manager, the badge alone demands maximum concentration.
“Anyone who plays for Madrid is very good, and to beat them we will need a great performance,” he said as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.
Warning to his players
Coudet appears to be rooted in realism rather than fear. He recognises the depth of quality available to Alonso, regardless of absentees or recent results.
Real Madrid will face Alaves on Sunday. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Expanding on that thought, he highlighted the level of difficulty his players should expect, adding,
“They are a top-class opponent, with a lot of quality, the kind that makes games more complicated than usual. I like facing the best.”
Rather than setting his side up reactively, he made it clear that his philosophy does not change based on the opponent, even when that opponent is Real Madrid.
In fact, he narrowed his focus to the immediate challenge in front of him, explaining: “I’m only focusing on the nearest goal.”
Another factor that could play a role is the venue itself. The clash with Real Madrid will be Alaves’ second consecutive home game, and Coudet believes that Mendizorroza can once again provide an edge.
He assured that the squad is “much more comfortable” playing in front of their own fans, a detail that even Real Madrid will have to take note of.
Report: Tottenham Hotspur hold firm stance over star’s future amid Bayern Munich interest
Tottenham plot decisive move to protect Luka Vuskovic future
Tottenham Hotspur appear ready to take control of Luka Vuskovic’s trajectory as growing Bundesliga interest threatens to accelerate his rise sooner than planned. According to reporting from TeamTalk, Spurs have already rebuffed enquiries from Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig, signalling a firm stance on an 18 year old they view as central to their defensive future.
Vuskovic’s rapid development has not gone unnoticed. Despite his age, the Croatian centre back has accumulated more than 70 senior appearances and continues to enhance his reputation during his current loan spell at Hamburg. That level of exposure has naturally drawn attention, but Tottenham’s internal messaging has been clear. As stated in the original report, Spurs made it known that “his future is very much in north London”.
Photo IMAGO
Bundesliga interest grows as Spurs hold firm
TeamTalk report that “Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig have made enquiries with Tottenham about him”, underlining how quickly Vuskovic has moved onto elite radars. His performances in Germany have combined defensive maturity with attacking threat, particularly from set pieces.
The teenager has scored twice in 13 games this season, including what was described as “a stunning back-heeled volleyed effort against rivals Werder Bremen”. That attacking output is not new. During his loan at Westerlo last season, he scored seven times, an exceptional return for a central defender.
Tottenham sources believe that interest will only intensify if left unchecked, which explains why recall discussions are now active.
Recall option gains momentum in January
One of the key revelations from TeamTalk is that “some within Spurs’ hierarchy believe that Vuskovic should be recalled from his Hamburg spell in Germany”. Tottenham have a January recall window and conversations are ongoing internally.
Spurs are exploring the January market for another centre back, yet there is a growing belief that “few players they could bring in would be better than Vuskovic”. His familiarity with the club, tactical fit, and proven resilience make him an attractive in house solution.
Hamburg, however, are keen to retain him. He has filled the void left by his brother Mario, who remains suspended until November 2026 due to a drugs ban, and has become a cornerstone of their defensive structure.
Long term planning over short term noise
Tottenham fans will recall Vuskovic’s pre season impact, where he scored and assisted in a win at Reading. TeamTalk note that “his performance in that game led to many Spurs fans lauding him as the perfect back-up to Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven”.
While regular football in Germany has clear benefits, Spurs may now decide that the balance has tipped. Bringing Vuskovic back could “silence all that noise around his future” and reinforce Tottenham’s reputation for backing elite young talent with decisive planning.
Our View – EPL Index Analysis
From a Tottenham supporter’s perspective, this report feels like a moment of quiet reassurance. For years, Spurs fans have watched elite young defenders flourish elsewhere after hesitation or overexposure to the loan system. Luka Vuskovic feels different.
The fact that Bayern Munich are circling should not create panic, it should create confidence. Bayern do not enquire unless they see genuine elite potential. As a fan, hearing that Spurs have already shut the door and stated that “his future is very much in north London” matters almost as much as any new signing.
Recalling Vuskovic in January would send a strong message. Not just to Bundesliga rivals, but internally. It would say that Tottenham trust development pathways and reward performances, rather than defaulting to external solutions. With Romero’s aggression and Van de Ven’s pace, Vuskovic offers something different, aerial dominance, composure, and a real set piece threat.
If Spurs do act in January, it will feel less like a reaction to noise and more like a statement of intent. For supporters, that clarity is refreshing and overdue.
Virgil van Dijk set to hit major milestone in Liverpool vs Brighton
Liverpool milestones frame Brighton encounter
Anfield rarely needs extra narrative, yet Saturday’s meeting with Brighton arrives carrying quiet significance. Liverpool’s season continues to move at pace, shaped by late goals, resilience after European nights and the calm authority of familiar figures. Within that flow sit two personal landmarks, one for a local midfielder who has grown with the club, another for a captain whose influence is now measured in history as much as presence.
Curtis Jones stands on the brink of his 200th Liverpool appearance, a number that reflects both longevity and trust. From a debut in January 2019 to his current role as a reliable, tactically fluent option, his journey mirrors the club’s wider evolution. He has not always been central, but he has remained relevant, which at a club of Liverpool’s churn and ambition is an achievement in itself.
Photo IMAGO
Virgil van Dijk’s moment carries heavier statistical weight. His next league outing would mark his 250th Premier League appearance for Liverpool, a Van Dijk record that places him firmly among the defining defenders of the modern era.
Van Dijk record underlines control and consistency
Van Dijk’s numbers reveal a defender who shapes matches without needing constant intervention. Only he, with 1,174 passes, has completed more in the Premier League this season than Brighton’s Lewis Dunk and Jan Paul van Hecke. It speaks to Liverpool’s dominance of territory and tempo, and to Van Dijk’s role as the game’s organiser rather than merely its enforcer.
His consistency has helped Liverpool avoid prolonged home slumps. Not since December 2017 have they gone three successive matches without a victory at Anfield with supporters present. That stability matters again now, particularly after European commitments, a context in which Liverpool have lost just one of their last 14 home league fixtures.
Patterns emerging between familiar opponents
Meetings with Brighton have settled into a curious rhythm. Liverpool have lost only one of eight Premier League home games against them, yet the Seagulls claimed a 3-2 win in May. Even then, patterns resist logic. The team scoring first has not won any of the last four league encounters, while the last eight meetings have delivered 30 goals. The only goalless draw between the sides dates back to September 1961.
Both teams share a late scoring habit this season. Liverpool and Brighton have each scored 11 league goals from the 76th minute onwards, reinforcing the sense that matches between them are rarely resolved early.
Their best run remains the heartbreaking final defeat to Nigeria by the narrowest of margins in the 2013 edition.
Drawn in Group E, the Stallions will square off against Equatorial Guinea, Sudan, and Algeria.
Below is Burkina Faso's record against their Group E opponents.
Burkina Faso vs Algeria
The two nations have clashed 19 times. Burkina Faso have come out on top 6 times, while Algeria have 7 victories to their name, with 6 matches ending in a draw.
January 24, 1996: Burkina Faso 1–2 Algeria — Africa Cup of Nations
February 11, 1998: Burkina Faso 2–1 Algeria — Africa Cup of Nations
January 19, 2000: Burkina Faso 1–0 Algeria — Friendly
May 26, 2000: Burkina Faso 0–2 Algeria — Friendly
September 3, 2000: Burkina Faso 1–1 Algeria — Africa Cup of Nations
June 17, 2001: Burkina Faso 1–0 Algeria — Africa Cup of Nations
October 15, 2001: Burkina Faso 0–2 Algeria — Friendly
How Liverpool could line up in Premier League clash vs Brighton (4-2-3-1)
Mohamed Salah will be the main talking point when Liverpool host Brighton & Hove Albion at Anfield in what promises to be an entertaining Premier League clash on Saturday afternoon.
Liverpool are keen to get back to winning ways after dropping points in a frustrating draw with Leeds United last weekend.
The Reds seem to have turned a corner since their woeful run of three wins from 12 games across all competitions.
Since losing 4-1 to PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League, Liverpool have put together a run of four games without defeat, most recently downing Inter Milan 1-0 in Europe.
However, they’ve only taken five points from the last nine available, capping a three-match unbeaten streak with a gut-wrenching 3-3 draw with Leeds.
Getting back to winning ways in the Premier League will be their primary concern, yet much of the focus remains on Salah, whose future at the club has become a huge debate.
Reports of tension between the forward and head coach Arne Slot have only added to the noise, with questions growing louder about whether Salah’s time at Anfield could be nearing its end.
On the pitch, the numbers show a dip from the Egyptian’s usual high standards. He is averaging fewer shots, fewer efforts on target, and fewer touches in the box than at any other point in his Liverpool career.
But Liverpool’s problems are beyond Salah. They’ve won just two of their last ten Premier League games and will take on Brighton in 10th place and 10 points off league leaders Arsenal.
Alisson will likely retain his place in goal, but Milos Kerkez and Conor Bradley are poised to return to the XI, while Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate continue their partnership at centre-back.
Ryan Gravenberch, Curtis Jones, and Alexis Mac Allister ran the midfield in midweek and should keep their place in the line-up.
Gakpo’s absence opens the door for Florian Wirtz to return to the XI. Dominik Szoboszlai should continue in place of the exiled Salah, while Hugo Ekitike leads the line.
Bayern Munich attacking prospect Moritz Göttlicher (17) has two Bundesliga suitors
Sky Germany – as relayed by transfermarkt.de – claims that Augsburg and Mainz are interested in acquiring young German attacking talent Moritz Göttlicher of FC Bayern Munich. The 17-year-old could be preparing to make the leap to the Bundesliga level next season. At present, Göttlicher still features for the Bayern U19s. Thus far this year, Göttlicher has scored four goals and registered two assists through seven matches.
Göttlicher still hasn’t featured for the Bayern reserves, but neither had current German mega-talent Lennart Karl prior to this season. Karl and Göttlicher both featured for the Bayern U17 team that won all 14 of their matches in the 2024/25 UEFA Youth League. Göttlicher contributed 11 assists in the team’s 14 group stage games and added another five assists in the playoffs.
Sky reports that Bayern wish to extend with the youngster, but Göttlicher is eager to test the waters elsewhere. Sitting on a contract due to expire at the end of the current season, Göttlicher remains free to negotiate a move to a different club on a free transfer as soon as the January transfer window opens.
“Top clubs from England all have Yan #Diomande in their sights: Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham, Manchester City and many more. #LFC
“Contrary to other reports, there are no concrete or advanced talks with any club.
“Contract until 2030 with no release clause. A move after the World Cup is possible. Leipzig are considering a fee of over €100 million. Incredible talent.”
Diomande only joined Leipzig in the summer from Spanish side Leganes, and has scored seven goals and registered four assists in 15 appearances in all competitions.
Geovany Quenda arriving next summer
Diomande can operate on both wings and is a top young talent so you can understand why he would be on Chelsea’s radar.
However, the Blues have Geovany Quenda arriving next summer, and there simply isn’t room in the squad for another wide player.
Quenda is currently out injured, but is regarded as one of the best young talents in Europe, and will go straight into Enzo Maresca’s first team squad and compete for minutes next season with the likes of Estevao and Pedro Neto.
Alaves winger sends subtle warning to Real Madrid ahead of crucial La Liga test – ‘We can get a good result’
Alaves winger Carlos Vicente has spoken with striking confidence ahead of Sunday’s La Liga showdown against Real Madrid, making it clear that his team can take advantage of a wounded opponent.
With Los Blancos travelling to Mendizorroza under pressure, the growing belief inside the Alaves dressing room is that this could be the perfect moment to cause an upset.
Real Madrid head into this match still reeling from a series of damaging results, including painful setbacks at the Santiago Bernabeu against both Celta Vigo and Manchester City.
Xabi Alonso’s side are eager to respond and restore confidence, but Mendizorroza has a reputation for being an unforgiving venue, especially for teams arriving with doubts.
A warning from Vicente
From Alaves’ perspective, a victory would not only represent a statement result but also allow them to look up the table with renewed ambition.
Vicente, one of the key figures in the attack, openly acknowledged the stature of the opposition while stressing how special these occasions are for players.
“Madrid is one of the best clubs in the world and in the league. They have spectacular players, and these are the games you dream of playing since you were a kid, against teams you never imagined you would face.
“It’s a huge motivation, a reward for a lot of hard work. It’s a very important opportunity.”
Despite that respect, Vicente made it clear that Alaves are not approaching the game in awe.
“Everyone is excited and eager. And we are convinced that we can get a good result.”
How to beat Real Madrid
Real Madrid face Alaves in a must-win game. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
The winger then turned his attention to what Alaves must do on the pitch to trouble one of Europe’s most dangerous teams.
Vicente emphasised that discipline and concentration, particularly without the ball, will be decisive.
“When you play against such good and powerful teams, the key is to be very solid at the back so that they have few chances, and to be accurate up front.”
He went on to stress that mistakes are punished ruthlessly at this level, saying,
“These are the basics of football, but in these games, they are even more important because these are opponents who forgive very little and you need to be at 100%.
Spotting the danger man
Finally, Vicente addressed the obvious danger posed by Real Madrid’s star man. With Kylian Mbappe expected to lead the line, Alaves know exactly where the biggest threat lies.
“There’s one player who stands out above all others at Real Madrid, and that’s Mbappe. He’s clearly an extraordinary player with many qualities.”
Still, the Alaves winger ended on a hopeful note, reminding everyone that even the best can falter.
“There’s no need to say much more because we all know him, but at the end of the day, he’s only human and can have off days. Hopefully Sunday will be one of them,” he said.
Hansi Flick signals major shift as Barcelona captain loses untouchable status
A noticeable shift is taking place in Barcelona’s midfield hierarchy, and Frenkie de Jong is no longer immune to competition under Hansi Flick.
According to a recent update from AS, the Dutchman has lost the privileged status he once enjoyed in the German coach’s starting XI, largely due to the impressive emergence of Eric Garcia in a more influential role.
Only a short while ago, Barcelona’s midfield structure appeared settled and beyond debate.
De Jong and Pedri formed an almost automatic pairing in the pivot, trusted to dictate the tempo and control games regardless of the opponent. That stability has now begun to erode.
While Pedri continues to be viewed as a cornerstone of Flick’s project, the same level of certainty no longer surrounds De Jong.
What happened to De Jong?
The change has not happened overnight, but recent matches suggest Flick is no longer fully convinced by the Dutchman’s performances.
It is noticeable that De Jong’s influence has waned, and the Champions League clash against Eintracht Frankfurt offered another telling example.
He started the match on the bench and did not step onto the pitch until the 66th minute.
Frenkie de Jong has not enjoyed regular game time recently. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Crucially, this was not an isolated case. De Jong has struggled to rack up meaningful minutes in recent weeks.
In fact, across the last two matches, he has failed to complete even half an hour of football.
In La Liga, his absence has been just as striking, having missed three of the last four league games.
A noticeable shift
Some of those absences can be explained by external factors. De Jong was a late withdrawal from the squad against Atletico Madrid due to a fever.
He was unavailable for the trip to Alaves because of a family matter, and suspension ruled him out of the Athletic Club fixture on the emotionally charged night of Barcelona’s return to the Camp Nou.
Even so, the broader pattern remains difficult to ignore.
What makes the situation more surprising is how sharply things have turned. Before missing the match against Athletic Club, De Jong was playing almost every available minute and appeared central to Flick’s plans.
Since Eric Garcia’s sudden and convincing rise, however, the landscape has changed to a great extent.
Roma speed up for Zirkzee, but Man United take time
Both Gian Piero Gasperini and Roma are becoming increasingly impatient in the negotiations for Joshua Zirkzee.
The Giallorossi intend to conclude the deal as quickly as possible, aiming to bring a striker to the manager as early as the beginning of January.
Roma urgently needs to strengthen their attacking lineup and doesn’t want to waste time.
However, the situation is complicated by Manchester United, who, under Ruben Amorim, prefer not to reduce their squad too much due to commitments related to the Africa Cup of Nations and potential transfers.
According to Fabrizio Romano, the English club appears willing to slow down the negotiations, which could delay the deal.
At the moment, the only way to expedite the deal would be for Zirkzee himself to explicitly ask to leave Manchester United, but so far there have been no signs of this.
The situation is therefore becoming more complicated, with Roma eager to conclude the deal quickly and the Red Devils prepared to hold out, at least until more favorable conditions arise.
It will therefore be crucial to understand how the next few weeks unfold, with the timing of the negotiations potentially crucial to the success of the deal. The Dutchman has so far made eight appearances and scored one goal in the Premier League.
Dewsbury-Hall returns to Chelsea as Everton's all-action leader
Not many Premier League signings these days can be considered a bargain. Everton, more than most clubs, have discovered that to their own detriment in recent seasons.
But every so often, a player becomes available: The right player, at the right time in their career, at the right price. A no-brainer.
And as far as spending £25million (potentially rising to £30m) on anything can be considered a “bargain”, then Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall certainly fits the bill. And he is proving worth every penny.
Dewsbury-Hall joined Everton from Chelsea in early August. He arrived on the back of helping the Blues win the FIFA Club World Cup, playing in five of their matches in the United States, scoring one goal.
That was a familiar tale for Dewsbury-Hall across his single season at Stamford Bridge.
Having thrived under Enzo Maresca at Leicester City as the Foxes gained promotion back to the Premier League in 2023-24, it was not really a surprise to see Dewsbury-Hall become a transfer target for several Premier League clubs. He had scored 12 goals and provided 14 assists as Leicester cruised to the Championship title.
Everton were among the interested parties, but lacked the funds to complete a deal. Brighton and Hove Albion thought they had made the decisive move, but Chelsea got their first, as Dewsbury-Hall was reunited with Maresca.
But while he had been the key cog for Maresca at Leicester, at Chelsea, Dewsbury-Hall was only ever going to be a bit-part player.
He managed 36 appearances, but only 19 starts, and he accumulated just 1,818 minutes across all competitions for the Blues. Though he nevertheless demonstrated his attacking quality — an output of five goals and three assists equates to a goal involvement every 227 minutes. Not bad for a midfielder with limited gametime, and one who would only ever play second fiddle to the likes of Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernandez.
When summer 2025 rolled around, it always seemed likely that Dewsbury-Hall — who is a footballer who clearly yearns to play, and not just sit on the bench in a bloated squad, collecting a handsome wage — would be eager to move on.
What was more surprising was that Everton essentially had a free run at him. At 26, about to turn 27, Dewsbury-Hall was a player heading into his prime years. He is energetic, robust and incredibly versatile. Throw in that he is a rare, left-footed central midfielder, and other Premier League clubs must now be contemplating why they, too, did not push to bring him in.
But their loss has been Everton’s gain. Immediately, it was clear that David Moyes would relish having Dewsbury-Hall to count on. A consummate professional, a leader and setter of standards with his best years ahead of him.
And while the first few weeks of Dewsbury-Hall’s Everton career were littered with ups — a brilliant performance against Wolves, which saw him score and assist — and downs, such as inconspicuous displays against Manchester City and Tottenham, in the last month or so, he truly has come into his own.
This is not just a purple patch, either. Dewsbury-Hall is a quality operator and you can tell he is now playing at full pelt. Due to Chelsea’s involvement in the Club World Cup, Dewsbury-Hall had no real pre-season. He was thrown in as an immediate starter by Moyes and had to work his way to sharpness on the pitch, rather than at Finch Farm.
Since a poor second-half performance at Sunderland on November 3, Dewsbury-Hall has played like a man possessed. He has turned in man-of-the-match displays in every Everton game since. It was he who set the tone for a dominant home display against Fulham; his stunner that sealed the Toffees’ win at Old Trafford; his energy in midfield that was key to Moyes’ men winning at Bournemouth, and his touch of class that inspired Everton to put Nottingham Forest to the sword. Even in the sorry 4-1 defeat to Newcastle United during that run, Dewsbury-Hall scored a goal worthy of a Puskas nomination for his deft touch and finish.
With Idrissa Gueye out of the side due to suspension, and Everton operating with a shoestring squad, Dewsbury-Hall has been shifted deeper, and it is arguably that positional change that has seen him have more of an impact on the all-round play.
Dewsbury-Hall is on record as saying his best position is as a box-to-box midfielder. Moyes, it seems, would prefer to play him behind the striker if possible, but as the last few games have proven, Dewsbury-Hall needs to be heavily involved.
With Everton still lacking Jarrad Branthwaite’s passing range from the back, there is a danger that Dewsbury-Hall can become isolated when playing further forward. That is not a worry when he plays deeper.
This season, Dewsbury-Hall ranks in the top 20% of the Premier League’s attacking midfielders for expected assists (0.21 per 90) and progressive passes (5.22 per 90), but tellingly, for clearances too (1.52 per 90). He is in the top 30% for passes (38.26 per 90), tackles (1.81 per 90), non-penalty goals (0.29 per 90), interceptions (1.81 per 90) and aerials won (0.8 per 90).
His link-up with Jack Grealish has, at times, looked telepathic, while his ability to drive from deep with the ball helps relieve the pressure. Dewsbury-Hall, like Grealish, is also adept at buying fouls, drawing the opposition in and making the right decision at the right moment. He has won 27 fouls in the league this term — a tally bettered by only three players.
Keep up like this, and Thomas Tuchel must surely be considering him among his contenders for next year’s World Cup squad.
And if Dewsbury-Hall is to force his way into the England reckoning, then putting his former club Chelsea to the sword on Saturday — with just one point separating the Blues and Everton — would be one way to do it.
Chelsea have reportedly warned Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner not to commit to a new contract amid growing uncertainty surrounding Enzo Maresca’s long-term future at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea plan to review Maresca’s position in February, though a decision could come sooner if results continue to deteriorate.
The Blues’ form has faltered in recent weeks, with four games without a win across all competitions, including a crucial Champions League defeat to Atalanta that has left fans and executives alike questioning the trajectory of the project.
Chelsea preparing for life without Enzo Maresca?
Maresca was expected to bring his possession-based, “tiki-taka” inspired approach from Leicester City to West London. However, that philosophy has yet to translate into consistent performances.
Sources inside the dressing room say both technical staff and players are struggling to grasp his tactical instructions.
Club executives are particularly concerned about Maresca’s use of key players like Cole Palmer, believing his rigid system could limit the young star’s creative freedom and reduce his influence in the final third.
Amid the uncertainty, Chelsea’s hierarchy have made informal contact with Oliver Glasner, who has impressed since taking charge at Crystal Palace, guiding them to the upper half of the Premier League table.
Glasner, who previously led Eintracht Frankfurt to Europa League glory, is admired for his tactical adaptability and ability to maximise limited resources, qualities Chelsea believe could stabilise their project if they choose to move on from Maresca.
The Blues have also added Andoni Iraola, the current Bournemouth manager, to their shortlist.
Iraola’s high-pressing, fluid attacking style has earned plaudits and is viewed internally as a strong fit for Chelsea’s young, energetic squad.
Raheem Sterling’s future at Chelsea has become uncertain with the Blues ready to let the winger leave the club, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.
The 31-year-old winger, once regarded as one of England’s most dynamic forwards, now finds himself on the fringes of Enzo Maresca’s squad, and with game time hard to come by, an exit from Stamford Bridge appears increasingly likely.
Chelsea are open to letting Sterling leave this winter, with the player’s wages posing a major financial burden for the club.
While Sterling remains under contract, senior figures at Stamford Bridge are believed to be exploring various exit options, including a permanent transfer, loan move, or even a mutual termination if no suitable deal emerges.
The move aligns with Chelsea’s cost-control strategy under the ownership of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, who are seeking to balance the wage structure and create room for younger, developing players.
Despite his experience and pedigree, Sterling’s lack of consistency and limited involvement under Maresca have made him a prime candidate to leave in January.
Interest in the former Manchester City star is strong within the Premier League.
Crystal Palace have expressed admiration for Sterling’s experience and versatility, with manager Oliver Glasner eager to add attacking depth amid injury concerns in his forward line.
Sterling’s name continues to circulate across Europe and beyond. Bayern Munich explored a potential loan deal in the past, and Saudi Pro League clubs have reportedly renewed their interest in signing the winger.
Raheem Sterling of Chelsea in action (Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)
However, Sterling’s priority remains in Europe, where he hopes to rebuild his form and reputation through regular football.
Once a guaranteed starter for club and country, he has slipped out of the England squad, and sources close to the player say he’s determined to revive his career in a competitive environment rather than chase a high-paying move abroad.
A January exit now appears more a matter of when than if. Chelsea are expected to hold further talks with interested clubs in the coming weeks, with Crystal Palace currently considered the frontrunner due to their Premier League status and playing style that suits Sterling’s strengths.
Liverpool are preparing for what could be one of the most dramatic months in recent memory, as uncertainty continues to surround Mohamed Salah’s future at Anfield.
According to TEAMtalk, the Reds could look to recall Harvey Elliott from his loan spell at Aston Villa in January, a move that may serve as an immediate response to any potential Salah departure.
Salah’s situation at Liverpool has become increasingly tense after his explosive comments last weekend, where he claimed he had been “thrown under the bus” by the club following his omission from the starting lineup in recent matches.
The Egyptian international, who has been pivotal in Liverpool’s success over the past seven years, appears to be at odds with both manager Arne Slot and the club’s hierarchy.
Mo Salah to leave Liverpool?
Mohamed Salah of Liverpool looks on (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images)
Clubs from the Saudi Pro League, including Al Hilal and Al Nassr, have reignited their long-standing pursuit of the 33-year-old.
With the Saudi transfer window set to open on January 1, the timing has only intensified speculation that Salah could be on the move sooner rather than later.
While Liverpool’s board have repeatedly insisted they want Salah to stay until his contract expires in 2027, insiders acknowledge that a massive offer from Saudi Arabia could test their resolve.
Elliott’s loan spell at Aston Villa has not gone as planned. The 22-year-old attacking midfielder, who joined Villa last summer seeking regular first-team football, has made just three Premier League appearances under Unai Emery.
This development could work perfectly in Liverpool’s favour. Should Salah leave in January, Elliott’s early return would provide Arne Slot with a left-footed attacking option capable of playing on the right flank, the very position Salah has owned for years.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has fired a clear warning to any of his players thinking about the World Cup next summer over the good of their club.
Speaking at his press conference on Friday, Arteta was asked by reporters about the situation of players like Ethan Nwaneri and Gabriel Jesus, who aren’t necessarily getting as many minutes as they might want.
Nwaneri might have an outside chance of making it into the England squad for next summer’s tournament, but he’s currently struggling to get much first-team action with Arsenal, starting only three games so far this season, with none of those coming in the Premier League.
See the video below, however, as Arteta brushed off questions about Nwaneri and Jesus by insisting it would be a “really bad approach” for any of his players to be looking ahead to the World Cup now…
? Mikel Arteta warns Arsenal players that if their priority is the World Cup then "we're going to have a BIG problem" ?? pic.twitter.com/LUGCMFn2O8
Mikel Arteta’s World Cup warning to Arsenal players
When asked at first about Nwaneri’s role in the team, Arteta defended his record of giving the 18-year-old a lot of chances at such an early stage in his career.
He said: “Probably looking at where he is, 18 years old, 50 appearances for the club.
“I want to see how many examples there are in English football with that number at that age.”
Ethan Nwaneri in action for Arsenal (Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)
When asked about players like Nwaneri and Jesus and the World Cup, Arteta made it very clear it would be a big problem for him if anyone in his squad put that competition ahead of the rest of the season for Arsenal now.
According to a report from Defensa Central, he does not have a future at Chelsea, and his agent has now approached Real Madrid to offer his client. It will be interesting to see if the Spanish outfit is willing to take up the opportunity and sign him on loan until the end of the season.
The former Monaco defender has shown his quality in Ligue 1 in the past, but the move to England has not worked out for him. It will be interesting to see if he is allowed to showcase his qualities in Spain.
Real Madrid need more quality and depth in the defensive unit, and the €45 million Chelsea ace could prove to be a useful acquisition on loan. It would be a no-risk acquisition, and Real Madrid could sign him for cheap if he manages to impress.
Axel Disasi of Chelsea (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Real Madrid are already dealing with injury problems at the back. Eder Militao is currently on the sidelines with a knock. However, the report claims that Real Madrid is unwilling to make any short-term additions. It will be interesting to see if they decide to go through the remainder of the season with the current options at their disposal.
Disasi, on the other hand, will have to sort out his future quickly. Sitting on the bench at Chelsea will not benefit him. He needs to play more often at this stage of his career. If Real Madrid is not interested in him, he should look at other opportunities.
Antoine Semenyo has been linked with a move away from burn mouth in recent months.
The 25-year-old Ghana international has done quite well in the Premier League, and he is on the radar of Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur. According to a report from TEAMtalk, Manchester City are monitoring his progress as well.
He has been one of the best attacking players in the league this season. He will cost £65 million, and Tottenham will have to pay up if they want to get the deal done. They need more quality and cutting-edge in the final third, and the 25-year-old is versatile enough to operate anywhere across the front three. Semenyo has been labelled as “world-class”.
Antoine Semenyo in action for Bournemouth against Chelsea (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Liverpool need someone like him as well. Mohamed Salah has been constantly linked with a potential move away from the club, and they will need a quality player to replace the Egyptian. The African certainly has the ability to fill that void.
He is well settled in the Premier League, and he could make an immediate impact at Liverpool or Tottenham. Both clubs could be exciting opportunities for the player. It will be interesting to see where he ends up. It is fair to assume that the two clubs have the financial resources to afford the asking price for him.
The deal could eventually come down to the wishes and the preference of the player. He will want to join a club capable of winning major trophies, and both clubs will need to do some convincing.
Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano has been linked with a move away from the German club in the coming months.
Manchester City have now joined the race to secure his signature as well. The French International defender could be signed on a free transfer at the end of the season, and it remains to be seen where he ends up.
It is no surprise that they are keen on the French defender. They need more quality and depth in the defensive unit. They have had multiple injury problems at the back this season, and players like Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile have no future at the club.
Upamecano has proven himself in German football, and he has the quality to succeed in the Premier League as well. Signing a player of his quality on a free transfer would be a masterstroke. It will be interesting to see if Chelsea can beat Manchester City to his signature. The French defender is at the peak of his powers, and he could make an immediate impact in the Premier League.
Dayot Upamecano in action for Bayern Munich against Chelsea (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)
He will want to join a big club where he will be able to fight for trophies.
Chelsea are certainly among the biggest clubs in the world. It remains to be seen how the situation develops. Liverpool, Real Madrid and Barcelona are monitoring the situation of the French defender as well.
Whoever ends up signing the player on a free transfer could have a huge bargain on their hands.
However, Arsenal view him as an important player, and they are unwilling to sanction his departure. The former Manchester City striker is versatile enough to operate in multiple attacking roles, and Mikel Arteta believes that he could be an important player for Arsenal during the second half of the campaign.
Arsenal are pushing for the league title, and they will look to do well in the UEFA Champions League as well. They need more quality and cutting-edge in the final third.
Jesus could prove to be very useful for them. Arsenal signed Viktor Gyokeres during the summer transfer window, but the Swedish International has not been at his best this season. It is clear that he needs more support in the attack. Holding onto the Brazilian attacker, at least until the end of the season, would be a wise decision.
Gabriel Jesus in action for Arsenal last season (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Jesus will look to play regularly in the coming months as well. It remains to be seen whether he can convince the manager to hand him a prominent role in the team. He has the quality and the experience to make a big difference for Arsenal in the final third over the next few months.
If he struggles to hold down a regular starting spot, he could then move on at the end of the season. However, selling him in January could prove to be a mistake, and Arsenal are certainly not keen on that.
Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with a move for the former Manchester United striker Mason Greenwood.
The 24-year-old has been linked with a move to the Premier League in recent months, but journalist Dean Jones has now revealed that a move to Tottenham is unlikely. If the player decides to move in the coming months, he is more likely to go to Spain.
Spurs linked with Mason Greenwood
Tottenham have been linked with Greenwood in recent months, and there is no doubt that they need more quality in the attack. The former Manchester United striker could have been a very useful acquisition for them. The Red Devils stand to benefit financially from any potential move.
Mason Greenwood in action for Marseille (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
It will be interesting to see if Spurs can find a dynamic attacker like him in the near future. They will need to improve going forward if they want to fight for trophies. They have invested a substantial amount of money in Dominic Solanke, but the England International has not been able to find the back of the net regularly. Tottenham need an upgrade on him. Signing another striker would be ideal for them.
They have a quality team and a quality manager. They will be expected to fight for major trophies. However, they cannot hope to do so without a reliable finisher.
As for Greenwood, it will be interesting to see where he ends up. He deserves to compete at the highest level, and joining a big club would be ideal for him at this stage of his career. He has shown his quality in La Liga in the past, and a move back to Spain could be interesting for him.
Mike Maignan has been linked with a move away from AC Milan in recent months.
The French international goalkeeper was heavily linked with an exit in the summer, but Milan managed to keep hold of him. He will be out of contract in the summer of 2026, and he is expected to leave the club as a free agent. He has not signed an extension with them.
The report further claims that the player has already made up his mind regarding a potential move. It will be interesting to see if Chelsea can get the deal done. They need a reliable goalkeeper, and the French International is certainly one of the best in the world.
A source told TEAMtalk: “From what is coming out from the talks, the belief from Milan’s end is that Maignan has made up his mind.”
Mike Maignan in action for AC Milan in pre-season (Photo by Yu Chun Christopher Wong/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Robert Sanchez has not been able to live up to the expectations since joining the London club. Chelsea need an upgrade on him, and the Milan star would be ideal. He has proven himself for club and country, and there is no doubt that he’s one of the best players in his position.
Chelsea would do well to sign a player of his quality and experience on a free transfer. He could prove to be a defining acquisition for the London club. Meanwhile, the opportunity to play in the Premier League will be exciting for the French International as well. Maignan will want to win major trophies with Chelsea.
Chelsea will be hoping to fight for major trophies in the coming seasons, and they need elite players who can bridge the gap with the likes of Arsenal and Manchester City. Maignan would be a transformative signing for them.
He could be available for a nominal price in January, but it seems that a summer move is more likely.
Leeds United are interested in signing the Hibernian midfielder Josh Mulligan.
The 23-year-old has been a key player for the Scottish outfit since joining them, and his performances have attracted the attention of multiple clubs.
Leeds keen on Josh Mulligan
Leeds United and Nottingham Forest are keeping tabs on him from the Premier League. The player is reportedly available for a reasonable amount of money next month. There is a release clause in his contract, which is quite affordable. While the report from Footmercato does not mention the amount of money required to sign him, they believe it will be a reasonable investment.
It will be interesting to see if Leeds follow up on their interest with their official proposal to get the deal done. They need more quality in the middle of the park, and Mulligan could be a quality addition. He is versatile enough to operate in the midfield as well as in defence. He could be the ideal utility man for the Premier League side.
Josh Mulligan of Hibernian warming up. (Photo by WM Sport Media/Getty Images)
The opportunity to move to the Premier League will be exciting for him. It would be a step up in the career of the 23-year-old, and he would get to test himself at a higher level. Leeds United are fighting for survival, and they need quality players during the second half of the campaign. The midfielder could prove to be very useful for them.
It is fair to assume that they have the financial muscle to get the deal across the line. It remains to be seen how the situation develops. Leeds will be hoping to stay in the Premier League next season. If they can plug the gaps in their squad during the January transfer window, there is no reason why they cannot have a strong ending to the season.
Klopp is undoubtedly one of the finest managers of his generation, and he would be an exceptional acquisition for Real Madrid. He has shown his quality with Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool in the past. There is no doubt that he could help Real Madrid bounce back strongly and win major trophies.
A report from Fichajes claims that the German manager could demand two players if he joins Real Madrid. Ibrahima Konate and Dominik Szoboszlai are on his wishlist if he joins the Spanish club. It will be interesting to see if Real Madrid is prepared to sign those players for him.
Dominik Szoboszlai scores for Liverpool against Leeds
Konate has done exceedingly well for Liverpool since joining the club, and he is undoubtedly one of the best defenders in the Premier League. Real Madrid have looked vulnerable at the back, and he could be the ideal acquisition for them. He will be free in the summer of 2026, and he could be a cost-effective solution to their defensive problems.
On the other hand, the Hungarian midfielder has been the best player at Liverpool this season. Klopp signed him during his time at Liverpool, and it is no surprise that he wants to take the player with him to Real Madrid. It will be interesting to see how the situation develops. Liverpool will not want to lose two players, especially to their former manager.
Liverpool have been heavily linked with a move for the Bayern Munich attacker Michael Olise.
The 23-year-old French international has been in spectacular form since joining the German club. He helped them win the league title last season, and he is fine for this season as well. The player has already registered 23 goal contributions in 23 matches across all competitions.
The French international has all the makings of a future superstar, and Liverpool would do well to secure a signature. Salah has been an exceptional servant for them, and he has helped them win every trophy at the club level. Replacing him will not be easy. Liverpool need a superstar to fill the void left by him, and the former Crystal Palace star could be ideal.
Michael Olise in action for Bayern Munich (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Salah has not been at his best this season, and he has been linked with an exit. He is struggling to hold down a regular starting spot at Liverpool. It remains to be seen whether the Premier League side decides to cash in on him in the coming windows.
The opportunity to return to the Premier League could be an exciting one for the player as well. Liverpool are one of the biggest clubs in the world, and they could help him fulfil his ambitions. He knows English football well, and he might be able to settle in quickly and make an immediate impact.
Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing the Juventus attacker Kenan Yildiz.
According to a report from TEAMtalk, the 20-year-old Turkish International is a dream name on their shortlist as they look to add more quality in the final third. It is no secret that they need more unpredictability on the flanks, and the Juventus attacker could be ideal for them.
He will help create opportunities for his teammates and find the back of the net as well. Brennan Johnson and Xavi Simons have not been at their best this season, and Dejan Kulusevski is sidelined with an injury.
Kenan Yildiz vs Tottenham wingers this season
Kenan Yildiz vs Tottenham wingers this season (Photo via DataMB)
Mohammed Kudus is the only reliable winger at the club. Spurs need to invest in that area of the squad, and Yildiz would be a shrewd investment. He has all the tools to develop into a superstar.
Kenan Yildiz in action for Juventus vs Fiorentina (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
It will be interesting to see if Spurs follow up on their interest with an offer to get the deal done. Signing the player will not be easy. Juventus rate him highly, and they will not want to lose the 20-year-old anytime soon. The North London outfit might have to pay a premium in order to get the deal done.
In addition to that, they will have to convince the player to join the club as well. He is an elite talent, and he will want to compete at the highest level. Tottenham must convince him that they will be able to help him fulfil his ambitions in the future.
Manchester United and Chelsea are interested in the Sunderland midfielder Noah Sadiki.
According to a report from Sacha Tavlolieri, both clubs are impressed with the 20-year-old’s performances this season. Manchester United made contact with his representatives at the start of the season, and Chelsea has now followed suit. The Blues made contact with Sunderland in October regarding a potential move.
Sunderland signed the player in July for a fee of around £15 million, and it will be interesting to see if they are willing to sanction his departure in future. He has the potential to develop into a quality player. He has already impressed in the Premier League, and manager Regis Le Bris has labelled him as a “really good player”.
There is no doubt that he has the potential to play for the biggest clubs in the world. Chelsea and Manchester United could be attractive destinations for him. It seems that an intense transfer is on the cards. It will be interesting to see which of the two clubs can get the deal done.
Noah Sadiki of Sunderland reacts during the Premier League match between Sunderland and Bournemouth. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Sadiki will be attracted to the idea of competing at a high-level, and the opportunity to join clubs like Chelsea or Manchester United will be tempting for him. He has all the tools to develop into a complete midfielder. He will not only help Manchester United or Chelsea control the game from the middle of the park, but he will also help out defensively.
He needs to choose his next destination carefully. He should look to join a club where he will play regularly. Sitting on the bench at a big club will not benefit him. Any club hoping to sign the player might have to come forward with game time assurances first.
Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City are interested in signing the PEC Zwolle midfielder Jadiel Pereira da Gama.
The 15-year-old defensive midfielder is regarded as a special talent, and he has already established himself as a first-team player for the Dutch outfit. Naturally, his performances have attracted the attention of top teams.
Multiple clubs keen on Jadiel Pereira da Gama
According to a report from TEAMtalk, the three Premier League clubs are monitoring his progress, and they could look to make a move in future. Chelsea could use more quality and depth, and the side and the 15-year-old would be a long-term investment. They have shown a willingness to invest in talented young players, and they are looking to add Pereira da Gama to the formidable pool of young talent already at the club.
The report claims that Chelsea are determined to secure his signature.
Similarly, Tottenham have invested in multiple young players in recent windows. They are looking to build for the future, and the 15-year-old could be an asset for them.
Manchester City are keeping tabs on the youngster, as they look to build for the future.
All three clubs have the financial muscle to get the deal done, and it remains to be seen where the 15-year-old will end up eventually. He needs to join a proper project where there is a prominent role for him. Sitting on the bench at a big club will be detrimental to his growth. Even though he’s not ready to start in the Premier League yet, he could still be a very useful player at the highest level. He must look to join a club where he will get opportunities to showcase his qualities with the first team.
Liverpool continue to be linked with a move for the Real Madrid attacker Rodrygo Goes.
The 24-year-old has not been a regular starter for the Spanish club this season, and naturally, he has been linked with an exit. Multiple clubs are monitoring his situation, and Liverpool have already made contact regarding a potential move.
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Real Madrid will sanction his departure if an offer of around €80-90 million is presented. It will be interesting to see if Liverpool follows up on their interest with an official proposal.
Rodrygo had 14 goals and 9 assists last season. This season, he has struggled for game time. However, he has excelled in the Champions League. Rodrygo has been linked with Arsenal as well.
Former Liverpool captain and club legend Steven Gerrard recently praised the Brazilian as “magnificent” after his performance against Manchester City. There is no doubt that he has the quality to do well in the Premier League, and he could be a star for the Premier League champions.
They need more cutting-edge in the final third, and the 24-year-old is a versatile attacker capable of operating anywhere across the front three.
Rodrygo Goes in action for Brazil (Photo by Toru Hanai/Getty Images)
He could be the ideal fit for Liverpool and the long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah. The Egyptian has been linked with a move away from the club after his latest bombshell interview criticising the manager. He could be sold in the coming months, and Liverpool will need to replace him properly. Signing the Brazilian could be ideal for all parties. The South American is more than just a goal scorer. He is a hard-working player who will help out at both ends of the pitch. He could be the ideal fit for Liverpool’s style of play.
The player is desperate for gametime, and Liverpool will be able to provide him with the platform he needs. They also need a versatile attacker, and Rodrygo seems tailor-made for them. Convincing the player to join the club might not be too difficult. He will want to join an elite team, and Liverpool could help him fulfil his ambitions.
Chelsea are interested in signing the Barcelona midfielder Marc Casado.
The 22-year-old has been linked with a move to the Premier League in recent months, and it will be interesting to see if Chelsea can get the deal done. They already have a quality midfield unit comprising of Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo.
Meanwhile, a report from Fichajes claims that Chelsea have been looking at multiple Barcelona players in recent months. It will be interesting to see if they can bring in the necessary additions.
Marc Casado in action for Barcelona vs Real Madrid (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
They believe that Casadó would fit their system properly, and he would be an accessible target as well. It will be interesting to see if they come forward with an official offer to get the deal done. Chelsea have previously made contact regarding a potential move, but the transfer did not work out. They remain keen on securing his signature.
The 22-year-old has shown his quality in Spanish football, and he can do well in the Premier League as well. It remains to be seen whether Chelsea can convince the player to join the club. They have the financial muscle to tempt Barcelona into selling Casado. The Spanish outfit have their own financial limitations, and they could be attracted to the idea of selling the young midfielder if a lucrative proposal is presented.
Manchester United seem increasingly open to cashing in on Bruno Fernandes, who remains a target for Saudi Pro League clubs.
As first reported here in the Daily Briefing, sources “expect bids” for Fernandes as both Al Hilal and Al Ittihad show a strong interest in him.
It’s anticipated that Man Utd could sell Fernandes for around £70m, with the Portugal international regarded as their most sellable asset.
This comes as Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS have been eager to make the club more financially stable since taking over.
Bruno Fernandes sale may be necessary to fund new Man United signings
Bruno Fernandes in action for Man Utd (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
With United targeting ambitious signings in midfield such as Elliot Anderson and Carlos Baleba, it seems Fernandes has been identified as someone worth cashing in on to help fund those moves.
Red Devils fans might not be too keen to see a top player like Fernandes leave, but it’s also true that he’s not getting any younger and this might be their last chance to make big money from his departure.
If that helps MUFC build for the future with elite young midfielders like Anderson and Baleba, it would surely go down as good business in the long-term, even if there’s some short-term pain.
Bruno Fernandes transfer exit could be a big risk
For now, though, is it actually worth offloading someone as influential as Fernandes while Ruben Amorim is still rebuilding this side and trying to get more consistency?
Just see below as Fernandes is rated by FotMob as United’s best performer this season, while he’s top for assists and second for goals…
Bruno Fernandes stats this season (FotMob)
It might be tempting to think Fernandes’ influence will soon wane with age, but some top players have continued to go on performing at the very highest level well into their late 30s, so this is clearly something the club need to think carefully about.
Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has revealed that he got death threats from Everton fans when he made the move to Old Trafford in 2004.
The former England captain came through as a youngster from Everton’s academy and played for their first-team for a couple of years before being quickly snapped up by Man Utd in a big move.
It was clear that Rooney had a big career ahead of him, and he felt he had to do what was right for him and join the Red Devils.
Still, speaking on his latest podcast with BBC Sport, Rooney admitted that it came at a big personal cost as he received death threats and his parents’ house was vandalised.
Wayne Rooney on huge Everton fan backlash to his Man United transfer
Rooney left Goodison Park in the summer of 2004 and it seemed clear at the time that the move did not go down at all well with Everton fans.
Wayne Rooney in action for Man United against Everton (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
Toffees supporters would always boo Rooney on his return to playing at their ground, and off the pitch things were even worse.
“I got death threats,” Rooney said. “My parents’ house was getting spray painted and smashed up. My girlfriend at the time, wife now, her house was getting spray painted.
“I think that’s where you have to be mentally strong. The people around you have to help.
“Leaving was difficult because I went to Manchester United, and Liverpool and Manchester was a big rivalry so that made it a lot more difficult.
“But I was always of a mindset of ‘I don’t care’. I knew what I wanted and I knew how to get there.
“I had to stay tough in my mind. This was people from my city so it was tough but I thought ‘I don’t care’, you have to be selfish and make these decisions.”
Wayne Rooney later returned for second spell at Everton
Somewhat surprisingly after such harsh treatment, Rooney later returned to Everton for a second spell.
When his time at United came to an end in the summer of 2017, Rooney joined EFC again, scoring 11 goals in 40 games before moving on again after just one season.
The veteran forward then had spells with DC United and Derby County before hanging up his boots and moving into both management and punditry.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has spoken out on the situation with star player Mohamed Salah as it remains to be seen if he’ll play against Brighton this weekend.
Liverpool host Brighton at Anfield on Saturday at 3pm, and all eyes will be on Salah, who was dropped from Slot’s squad to face Inter Milan in midweek, having been on the bench for the last three Premier League games.
The Egypt international did not respond well to being dropped to the bench, having publicly criticised Slot in an explosive interview after the 3-3 draw away to Leeds United.
Slot himself then responded by axing Salah from his matchday squad altogether in the Champions League, but it seems he’s open to the 33-year-old returning.
Mohamed Salah in action for Liverpool (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
Arne Slot on talks with Mohamed Salah
Speaking ahead of the weekend game, Slot told his press conference, as quoted by BBC Sport, that he’s already had a lot of talks with Salah’s representatives and more meetings are scheduled to see if he’ll end up playing against Brighton.
“I will have a conversation with Mo,” the Dutch tactician said.
“The outcome of that conversation determines how things will look [on Saturday].
As first reported here for the Daily Briefing, the Eagles are making Diomande a top target to replace Marc Guehi, who continues to be targeted by Liverpool and other big clubs around Europe.
Sporting don’t want to sell Diomande and are pointing to his €80m release clause, which one imagines could prove problematic for Palace, but perhaps less so for Chelsea.
Other top clubs such as Manchester United, Arsenal, and Newcastle are also understood to have scouted Diomande in recent times.
Crystal Palace showing concrete interest in Ousmane Diomande
Ousmane Diomande challenges Kenan Yildiz for the ball (Photo by Stefano Guidi/Getty Images)
This is a clear signal that the south Londoners are planning for life without Guehi, who won’t be signing a new contract and who is due to become a free agent next summer.
The England international was targeted by Liverpool towards the end of last summer’s transfer window, only for Palace to pull the plug late on as they didn’t have a replacement.
If they can land a talent like Diomande to strengthen their defence, however, then that would help fill the gap left by Guehi.
LFC fans will no doubt hope this is a boost for them in their pursuit of Guehi, but it doesn’t necessarily mean Anfield will be his next destination.
The 25-year-old will have numerous other suitors in for him, so in many ways Palace’s interest in Diomande doesn’t directly change that much.
It is yet another indication, however, that Guehi’s future lies away from Selhurst Park, so some Reds fans will surely see that as a positive, even if that already looked likely some time ago anyway.
Arsenal have been praised for their transfer deal for Noni Madueke, who has impressed since joining from rivals Chelsea in the summer.
Former Blues striker Chris Sutton says he felt at the time that Madueke’s departure from Stamford Bridge could hurt his former club, and it does seem like an increasingly smart piece of business by the Gunners.
Madueke starred for Arsenal in their midweek Champions League win over Club Brugge, scoring two goals in a 3-0 victory.
The England international also scored in the recent win over Bayern Munich at the Emirates Stadium, and it looks like he will prove a valuable squad player to take the pressure off Bukayo Saka, who has often had to play 90 minutes in pretty much every single game for Arsenal.
Noni Madueke in action for Arsenal (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
Chris Sutton praises Noni Madueke signing by Arsenal
“It wasn’t just with his goals that Noni Madueke made an impact, he did really well throughout the game and showed he is ready to do a job when he is called upon,” Sutton said via BBC Sport.
“A lot is made of Arsenal’s strength in depth this season, and at the moment Arteta has got a few injuries in key positions.
“But in those wide areas he has got plenty of options and the fact he could bring Madueke and Martinelli off the bench against Villa at the weekend and then start them tonight and see both of them score brilliant goals is a real positive.
“More and more, Madueke looks like a really smart signing. I already thought he was a loss to Chelsea, but you are seeing now he is back from injury that Arsenal can have Saka off that right side, or use him – it bodes really well for them with such a busy period coming up.”
Some Arsenal fans might well feel Madueke is showing glimpses of being able to challenge Saka for his place in Mikel Arteta’s starting XI.
After a few injuries, there have occasionally been signs of Saka slowing down a little bit and not quite looking at his best.
2025/26 all comps
Games
Goals
Assists
Bukayo Saka
20
7
2
Noni Madueke
12
3
0
And yet, as the stats above show, he’s still producing impressive numbers for Arsenal, showing how important he is to the team even when he’s not yet at 100% peak fitness and form.
Madueke also has his qualities and will surely improve once he’s more settled at Arsenal, while he’s another one of many players in this squad to have also had problems with injuries this term.
Manchester United have been advised to consider a surprise move to re-sign veteran striker Danny Welbeck from Brighton.
Former Red Devils star Louis Saha believes Welbeck remains a top talent who could contribute on the pitch for Ruben Amorim’s side, as well as helping a young striker like Benjamin Sesko to improve his game.
Welbeck came up through the Man Utd academy and became a key first-team player under Sir Alex Ferguson, though he fell out of favour towards the end of his time at the club.
Since then, Welbeck has had spells at Arsenal, Watford, and now current club Brighton, and he’s been a particular success with the Seagulls.
Danny Welbeck in action for Brighton (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)
Manchester United told they could do well to bring back Danny Welbeck
Speaking to Pundit Arena, as quoted by the Metro, Saha praised Welbeck and explained how he felt the 35-year-old’s presence could benefit the other forwards at Old Trafford.
“I would have loved Manchester United to sign Danny at the start of the season,” Saha said.
“When I came to the club, there was Van Nistelrooy and Solskjaer, but we had more than that. We had Tevez and Alan Smith, and there was depth, there was a variety. We all learned from each other.
“I think Sesko and other forward players would benefit by having someone like Welbeck to challenge them, to make them learn more about the game, more about positioning.
“Welbeck’s experience would give an example for them to all learn from, and I think if Danny arrives in the winter transfer window, he could make a huge difference to results on the pitch.”
This is not the first we’ve heard about a Danny Welbeck to Man Utd return
The Athletic actually reported in the summer that MUFC at one point considered a move to re-sign Welbeck.
"This idea that he's not good enough for Manchester United is absolutely rubbish" ?
Gary Neville says Danny Welbeck is 'perfect' for how Man United should play ? pic.twitter.com/tSNX89Y3Q6
Meanwhile, as per the video clip above, United legend Gary Neville is another prominent figure who called for the player’s return.
Welbeck has seven goals and one assist in all competitions so far this season, following on from a tally of 11 goals in total last season.
These maybe aren’t the most spectacular numbers, but one imagines he’d get even more chances in this United side, while he’s also always been a player who’s about more than just goals.
Would you re-sign Welbeck for United? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
MLS commissioner Don Garber has spoken out on the Mohamed Salah transfer situation, urging the Liverpool star to reach out to Lionel Messi to ask about life in the US.
Salah is currently facing serious uncertainty over his future, with the Egypt international benched for three consecutive games before then being dropped entirely by Arne Slot for complaining about his treatment.
Given his age and likely salary demands, it could be difficult for another top European club to sign Salah at this stage of his career, so it’s not surprising that the MLS is being mentioned as a potential destination.
Mohamed Salah to MLS? Don Garber sends a message to the Liverpool star
Garber has now addressed the Salah speculation and suggested the player should ask Messi about how he’s enjoying life there, though he also didn’t want to say too much more due to him still being under contract at Liverpool.
Mohamed Salah in action for Liverpool (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
“Obviously, if [Salah] ever decides to come to Major League Soccer, we’d welcome him with open arms,” Garber said.
“I’d say he should reach out to Leo [Messi] and reach out to Thomas Muller and see how happy they’ve been and how successful they’ve been and how much they’ve really embraced being in Major League Soccer.”
He added: “I’ve seen some rumours about Mo Salah. We very much believe in the sanctity of a contract; that’s an American business dynamic. Mo’s under contract to Liverpool, people we know. It’s a great team.”
Could Salah move to MLS over Saudi?
This story also comes after a surprise move yesterday by Ben Harburg, an American sports investor who runs Al Kholood, to speak out against the prospect of Salah coming to the Saudi Pro League.
See below as it looks like Harburg has doubts about if Salah would be welcomed in Saudi now, so perhaps a switch to the States could end up being the better option…
?? "He's NOT a team player!" – Could Mohamed Salah to Saudi now be in serious doubt after his bust-up with Arne Slot? ? pic.twitter.com/olMkpFf6mt
“He doesn’t strike me as a great team player. As an owner, when I look at the way he behaved there … if a player isn’t performing, they’re not going to be in the starting line up. We don’t put people in the starting line up based on what they did three seasons ago or even last season.
“All that, to me, combines for a fairly toxic combination of factors. So I would rather he not come here.
Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo is reportedly someone who could be a prospective transfer target for Bayern Munich, according to Christian Falk.
Writing in his latest column for CF Bayern Insider, Falk explained that Mainoo is not currently thought to be a top priority for Bayern, but he is an option that could be one to watch.
The England international is struggling for playing time at Man Utd at the moment, having started only one game all season, and none in the Premier League.
Given that the World Cup 2026 is approaching, Mainoo will surely want to be playing regular first-team football in the second half of the season to give himself a chance of making Thomas Tuchel’s England squad.
Kobbie Mainoo to leave Manchester United?
Kobbie Mainoo warming up for Man Utd (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Mainoo might not currently be a top target for Bayern, but he’ll surely be leaving Old Trafford soon after an unhappy first half of the season under Ruben Amorim.
Amorim has had some criticism for his treatment of Mainoo, and it would certainly be a risk to let him join another top European club as the backlash from fans could be fierce if the 20-year-old goes on to develop into a world class player.
Napoli are another big name being strongly linked with Mainoo by La Repubblica and others, so that might be the one to watch out for if Bayern aren’t pursuing him.
Will United live to regret Mainoo decision?
Mainoo showed great potential when he first broke into the MUFC first-team as a teenager, becoming a regular under Erik ten Hag and even scoring the winning goal for the club in the 2024 FA Cup final victory over Manchester City.
It’s not clear why Amorim won’t make more use of Mainoo, and it could end up being a decision he and United live to regret.
Not only is Mainoo a fine young player with what is surely a big future ahead of him, but replacing him with another midfielder of that calibre would surely cost huge money, whereas Mainoo rose up from the club’s academy, so cost them nothing.
Bayern Munich chief Max Eberl is reportedly planning talks with Crystal Palace centre-back and Liverpool transfer target Marc Guehi on January 1st.
The England international is nearing the end of his contract with Palace, and is free to start negotiating a move for next season from January onwards.
This only applies to clubs from abroad, so it could give Bayern an edge over Liverpool, who also remain interested, according to Sky Germany.
Marc Guehi set for face-to-face Bayern Munich transfer talks
According to the report, Eberl is now set to meet Guehi directly to negotiate a move to Bayern, with the Bundesliga giants said to have a strong interest in the 25-year-old.
It seems Eberl has already had contacts with Guehi’s representatives, and he’ll now look to establish contacts with the player himself to try to move his club into pole position.
This could be bad news for Liverpool, and it tallies well with a recent report from the Athletic which stated that they were no longer the favourites for Guehi’s signature despite coming so close to signing him in the summer.
Marc Guehi celebrates a goal for Crystal Palace against Fulham (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Where should Marc Guehi go next?
Palace fans will probably be hoping that Guehi chooses a move abroad instead of moving to a Premier League rival, but what would be the best move for the player himself?
Fellow Englishman Harry Kane has really enjoyed his time at Bayern so far, so it could be a tempting move for Guehi if he wants to ensure he’s playing for a top club in the Champions League and challenging for major trophies.
Vincent Kompany is also doing a hugely impressive job at Bayern, so one imagines plenty of the world’s best players would be tempted to go there right now.
Liverpool, by contrast, have really gone quickly downhill since their Premier League title victory last season.
Guehi might no longer be so sure about a move to Anfield as it’s not even guaranteed that they’ll be able to offer Champions League football next season.
LFC could really do with Guehi choosing them, though, as they need a long-term replacement for Virgil van Dijk, while Ibrahima Konate’s future is in doubt as he’s also due to be out of contract at the end of this campaign.
Meanwhile, manager Enzo Maresca has now opened the door for his exit in January and he has claimed that the player could move on.
“In terms of Raheem, once again it’s the same thing I said about Axel [Disasi], they are Chelsea players. Now also we are in December, January is coming, so anything can happen with him,” Maresca said (h/t Leeds United News).
It remains to be seen whether Leeds are prepared to sign the player. They need more quality and depth in the attacking unit and Sterling could be an interesting acquisition for them.
He has proven himself in the Premier League with Liverpool and Manchester City in the past. There is no doubt that he is a quality player and he has won major trophies in his career.
The opportunity to join Leeds United could be interesting for the player as well. He will not want to sit on the bench regularly at this stage of his career. Regular football during the second half of the season could improve his chances of representing his country in the upcoming World Cup.
Leeds could provide him with the platform he needs right now.
Raheem Sterling during his time at Chelsea (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
It will be interesting to see if Leeds come forward with an acceptable offer for Sterling. Chelsea are unlikely to hold out for a premium for him.
If Leeds United can sign him for a reasonable amount of money, the deal could be worth doing. Sterling is versatile enough to operate in multiple roles and he will add goals and creativity to the side.
Even though the Chelsea attacker is out of form and lacking in confidence, he is a quality performer and regular football might bring out the best in him.
The signing would certainly be a gamble for Leeds United, but it could be worth taking. If Sterling manages to regain his form, the deal would have huge potential upside for Leeds United.
West Ham United are reportedly interested in signing the Argentine striker Taty Castellanos.
According to Il Messaggero, Lazio are expecting an offer of around €25–30 million for the striker and it will be interesting to see if West Ham are prepared to pay up.
It is no secret that they need to sign a quality striker. Niclás Füllkrug has not been able to live up to expectations and Callum Wilson is a short-term option for them. West Ham need a quality striker who can lead the line for them regularly.
The 27-year-old Argentine could be ideal for them. Castellanos has done well in Italy and he has the physicality and technical attributes for Premier League football as well.
The striker will be excited about the possibility of playing in the Premier League. It remains to be seen whether West Ham come forward with an acceptable proposal for him.
The Hammers have had a disappointing season so far and they will look to survive in the top flight. They need quality players in order to stay up in the Premier League. Signing Castellanos could prove to be a wise decision. The 27-year-old striker is at the peak of his career and he could make an immediate impact in the Premier League.
Taty Castellanos in action for Lazio (Photo by Marco Rosi – SS Lazio/Getty Images)
The player will look to cement his place in the Argentine national team for the upcoming World Cup. If he manages to impress during the second half of the campaign in the Premier League, it will certainly enhance his chances.
It remains to be seen whether the two clubs can work out a deal.
West Ham have the finances to pay the asking price and the 27-year-old striker has the quality to justify the investment. It would be ideal for the Hammers to get the deal across the line in January.
Aston Villa attacker Leon Bailey is on loan at Italian club Roma.
However, the Jamaican has not managed to perform at a high level. He has had injury problems as well. Bailey has played just 188 minutes in all competitions and Roma could look to part ways with him in January.
Roma want to replace Leon Bailey
They are interested in signing Joshua Zirkzee from Manchester United and they are hoping to free up funds to sign the player, as per Corriere dello Sport.
The Aston Villa attacker has already been offered to Benfica and it will be interesting to see if they are willing to sign the 28-year-old. He has previously shown his quality in Germany and England.
There is no doubt that he is a quality player and he might be able to rediscover his form in the right team.
Aston Villa do not see him as a key part of their plans and they will look to get rid of the player permanently. If he returns to the club, he is unlikely to get opportunities. It would be ideal for all parties to seek a permanent move in January.
Leon Bailey of Aston Villa in action (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
The 28-year-old is still at the peak of his powers and he could be a very useful player in the right team. Returning to Aston Villa will not be an option for him and it is clear that he is now unwanted at Roma.
It will be interesting to see where he ends up. He will look to join a competitive club where he will be able to fight at a high level.
Meanwhile, Aston Villa need to improve their attacking unit as well and selling the Jamaican permanently in January would be ideal for them. They could recoup some funds from his departure.
West Ham United are reportedly interested in signing the Zulte Waregem player Tochukwu Nnadi.
According to Africa Foot, former West Ham United captain turned sporting director Mark Noble wants the player to join the club and he has recommended the board to sign him.
It will be interesting to see if the Hammers decide to make a move for him.
Tochukwu Nnadi on West Ham radar
The Nigerian Under-20 international is highly rated and he has a bright future. He could cost around £3.5 million during the January transfer window and West Ham certainly have the finances to get the deal done.
They need more quantity and depth in the middle of the park. The Nigerian could be a useful acquisition. With the right guidance, he could develop into a key player for the team.
West Ham could offer him a five-year contract. They will be hoping to nurture him into a first-team player.
The opportunity to move to the Premier League will be quite exciting for the player as well. He dreams of competing at the highest level and the move to West Ham could be the ideal platform for him.
If he manages to impress with the London club, he might get to join a bigger club in the future.
West Ham have had a disappointing season so far and they will look to bounce back strongly.
Adding more quality in January would be ideal for them.
The 22-year-old midfielder is likely to be up for the challenge and it will be interesting to see how the situation develops.
He is a defensive midfielder but he can operate in central midfield as well. The hardworking midfielder will help out defensively and protect the West Ham United defensive unit.
In an interview with The Athletic, the player has now revealed that he wants to play regular football, and he has the hunger and desire to succeed at a high level.
Oxlade-Chamberlain said: “I want to play. I’m not ready to call it quits by any means. I don’t feel old. I’ve still got that hunger to play and do well. I just want the opportunity to show what I can still do.
“I feel like I can add value on the pitch but also show the right way to train, the right way to act on and off the pitch. I’m in the bracket now where I’ve been lucky enough to play for top clubs, win things and work with top managers. I know a lot more now than I did when I started out.”
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in action for Besiktas (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)
It remains to be seen whether Leeds take up the opportunity to sign the player. Signing him for free would be a low-risk acquisition with potential upside.
He is a reliable performer in the Premier League and he has shown that with Arsenal and Liverpool in the past. He is capable of operating in multiple roles and he could prove to be the ideal utility man for Leeds United.
Furthermore, his winning experience and leadership qualities could prove to be invaluable for Leeds as well.
The 32-year-old has played for some of the biggest clubs in the world and he has won major trophies during his career. The move to Leeds could be ideal for him as well.
It remains to be seen how the situation develops. Leeds need to plug the weaknesses in their side if they want to survive in the top flight this season. The former Arsenal and Liverpool midfielder could prove to be a very useful acquisition.
The West Midlands club have PSR concerns and they could look to sell the player to balance the books. The Seagulls are hoping to take advantage of the situation and the player.
Lamare Bogarde during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Wycombe Wanderers and Aston Villa. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, the Netherlands midfielder will be hoping to play regularly at this stage of his career and Aston Villa have not been able to provide him with that opportunity. He has not started a game for the West Midlands club since the 5th of October. If Brighton can provide him with ample opportunities, he is likely to be attracted to the idea of joining them.
Brighton are yet to come forward with an official proposal to get the deal done and it remains to be seen whether they can submit an acceptable offer for the 21-year-old. If they manage to sign him for a reasonable amount of money, the deal could look like a masterstroke in the long term. The player has all the tools to develop into a quality performer in the top flight. Bogarde has been linked with Nottingham Forest in the past.
Arsenal are keeping tabs on the Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Diant Ramaj.
According to Sport.de, Arsenal have been scouting the player recently, and they have watched him multiple times. The 24-year-old is currently on loan at Heidenheim, and he has impressed with his performances.
It will be interesting to see if Arsenal decide to make a move for him in the coming months. They are well-stocked in the goalkeeping department with David Raya and Kepa Arrizabalaga. It will be interesting to see if they can accommodate the 24-year-old in their plans, if they decide to make a move for him.
Meanwhile, the player will look to return to Dortmund and establish himself as a key player for the club. Gregor Kobel is currently the first-choice goalkeeper at the German club. Ramaj will want to play regularly at this stage of his career, and if the German cannot provide him with that opportunity, he could look to consider an exit. It will be interesting to see where he ends up.
Diant Ramaj of Hoffenheim looks on. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
The 24 year-old player and he could be a useful option for Dortmund and Arsenal. He should look to join a club where he will get ample first-team opportunities. Sitting on the bench at a big club will not benefit him at this stage of his career.
For now, Arsenal are keeping close tabs on his progress, and they are yet to make a concrete move for him. If he is made available at the end of the season, the Gunners could look to test the waters with a potential move.
It seems unlikely that Arsenal will be able to sign him without letting go of Kepa, who is currently the backup goalkeeper at the club.
Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez has been linked with a move away from the club in recent months.
The South American has developed into a key player for Chelsea, and he’s an important player for his country as well. The 24-year-old is a tremendous talent with a bright future, and German champions Bayern Munich are now interested in securing his signature.
Bayern keen on Enzo Fernandez
They are looking to add more quality in the middle of the park, and the 2022 World Cup winner would be an exceptional addition. According to a report from Fichajes, they are preparing an offer close to €120 million in order to sign the player. It will be interesting to see if Chelsea are prepared to sanction his departure.
He is a key player for them, and they will not want to lose him easily. The report claims that Chelsea have no plans to part ways with the Argentine. Fernandez is a key part of their project, and they simply cannot afford to lose him.
Enzo Fernandez in action for Chelsea against Crystal Palace (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
He has a contract with them until 2032, and Chelsea have complete control over his future. Even though the German club is prepared to pay a substantial amount of money, it seems highly unlikely that they will be able to get the deal done.
Arsene Wenger wanted to bring the Swiss International midfielder to Arsenal during his time at the club. He was a quality player for Udinese and Napoli. There is no doubt that he had the attributes to do well in the Premier League as well. He could have been a useful option for them.
Gokhan Inler on failed Arsenal move
Inler revealed on The Italian Football Podcast: “Of course, during this time, I had an agent. I didn’t have so much information as I was concentrating on the pitch. Yes, the rumours were there. Behind the scenes, now I understand what happens behind the scenes, but before, you don’t know what’s going on.
“But yeah, it could be, I read about this. But I can say, and many people don’t know about this, but in my first year at Udine, I had an offer from Arsenal. However, the club said no, Inler is part of our project, so I stayed there four years.
“Yes, Arsene Wenger wanted me correct. Like I said, I didn’t know what was going around but I was also a Swiss national team player with Johan Djourou and Philippe Senderos were Arsenal players. That’s why I saw the coach with the national team, but in the end the club decided to keep me and I had a great four years with Udinese.”
However, Christian Falk has now revealed on CFBayernInsider that there is no chance of the French attacker leaving the German club anytime soon. Bayern Munich are now looking to agree on a new contract with the player, which will see him rewarded with an improved deal.
Bayern unwilling to let Michael Olise move
There have been rumours of the German club making a move for Mohamed Salah, which would facilitate Olise’s move to Liverpool. However, Falk claims that Bayern Munich are not interested in the Egyptian International, and he is too old for them now.
It seems unlikely that Liverpool will be able to sign the former Crystal Palace star. He has been linked as a potential long-term replacement for Salah, and the development will come as a major blow for the Premier League champions. It will be interesting to see if they can sign a quality right-sided attacker to replace the Egyptian.
Salah has not been at his best this season, and he has been dropped from the starting lineup. There are strong rumours that he could move on in the coming months. Liverpool need to find a quality alternative.
Michael Olise in action for Bayern Munich (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Olise would have been a ready-made replacement. He has been outstanding for Bayern Munich, and he has shown his ability in the Premier League with Crystal Palace in the past. He is entering the peak years of his career, and he has all the tools to develop into a world-class player.
Liverpool continue to push for Yan Diomande, and they are now accelerating their efforts to sign the 19-year-old as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah.
According to a report from Fichajes, they are prepared to invest a record amount of money in order to sign the attacker.
Yan Diomande is a top prospect
Diomande has been an important player for the German club, and there is no doubt that he is a tremendous talent. He could develop into a quality player with the right guidance, and moving to Liverpool could be ideal for him. The German club reportedly values the player at €100 million.
Arsenal and Manchester City are interested in securing his services as well. It remains to be seen whether Liverpool can beat the competition for his signature.
Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig in action. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
Mohamed Salah has been linked with a move away from the club in the coming weeks, and Liverpool will need to replace him properly. The Egyptian has struggled for regular opportunities in decent weeks, and he has been dropped from the starting lineup.
On the other hand, Arsenal and Manchester City are looking to add more explosiveness in the final third, and they are keeping tabs on the 19-year-old. It will be interesting to see which of the three clubs can get the deal done. His asking price is quite high, and the German outfit is unlikely to lower their demands for him.
Meanwhile, the player will look to compete at the highest level and play for the biggest clubs in the world.
Newcastle United are interested in signing the Valencia midfielder Javi Guerra.
The talented young midfielder has been linked with a move away from the La Liga club, and his performances have been mediocre. According to a report from Fichajes, Newcastle United are interested in securing his signature, and they have identified him as a priority target.
Newcastle are now looking to make a move for him in the near future. Newcastle have been scouting the player, and the reports have been consistently positive. It will be interesting to see if they follow up on their interest with an offer to get a deal done.
The player was valued at €25 million, but he has signed a new deal with Valencia until 2029, and the Spanish club are unlikely to let him leave for cheap now. They are likely to demand a premium. It remains to be seen whether Newcastle are prepared to pay.
Javi Guerra warming up for Valencia (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)
They need more control and composure in the middle of the park. The 22-year-old would be a superb acquisition. He has the technical attributes for Premier League football, and he could establish himself as an important player for the English club.
The opportunity to move to the Premier League could be ideal for him. A fresh start could be instrumental in helping the player get back to his best. Newcastle have an ambitious project and a talented squad. They are competing in the UEFA Champions League, and they managed to win a domestic trophy last season. The Spanish midfielder will certainly be attracted to the idea of joining them.
It will be interesting to see if Newcastle decide to come forward with an offer in January. Despite his inconsistent performances, he is an important player for Valencia, and they might not be keen on losing him in the middle of the season.
Real Madrid attacking midfielder Arda Guler has been linked with a move away from the club in recent months.
Arsenal and Manchester United are reportedly in the front row to secure his signature. Arsenal needs to add more quality and depth in the attacking unit, and the versatile Turkish International could be a useful acquisition for them. On the other hand, Manchester United have already accelerated contacts with the player’s representatives regarding a potential move, as per Fichajes.
Liverpool also keen on Arda Guler
Liverpool are also keeping tabs on Guler. It remains to be seen where he ends up. Liverpool are looking to sign a player who will add more creativity to the side. The Real Madrid midfielder is capable of slotting into multiple roles, and he will help create opportunities for his teammates. It will be interesting to see if Real Madrid are prepared to sanction his departure.
He is a young player with a lot of potential, but he’s not a regular starter for them. They could be tempted to sell him if there is a concrete proposal on the table.
Meanwhile, the Turkish international needs to play regularly as well. Sitting on the bench at the Spanish club will not benefit him.
Arda Guler of Real Madrid in action (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
If Arsenal or Manchester United can provide him with gametime assurances, they could be an attractive destination for the player. Regular football in the Premier League could bring out the best in him and help him fulfil his potential. It will be interesting to see which of the three clubs follows up on their interest with an official proposal to get the deal done.
If they can sign the Turkish International for a reasonable amount of money, he could prove to be a bargain in future.
The player is keen on a permanent exit from the London club. It will be interesting to see if he can find a suitable destination for himself. He needs to join a club where he will play regularly. Sitting on the bench at a big club will not benefit him at this stage of his career.
Meanwhile, Leeds and Everton are keeping tabs on his situation. It will be interesting to see if they decide to make a move for him in the near future.
Tyrique George in action for Chelsea (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Leeds and Everton could use more quality and depth in the final third, and the 19-year-old would be a useful acquisition for them in the long-term. He is capable of operating centrally as well as flanks. He will look to help create opportunities for his teammates and add goals to the team as well
Regular football in the Premier League could help him improve further and fulfil his potential. The young attacker is highly rated across the country. He has a bright future. If the likes of Leeds or Everton can groom him properly, they could have a future star on their hands.
Leeds are currently fighting for survival, and Everton are hoping to secure a respectable finish in the table. Both clubs need quality additions in January. George could be a long-term investment.
Crystal Palace and Leeds United are interested in signing the Bodo/Glimt star Jens Petter Hauge.
The 26-year old has done quite well for his club and country, and he could be a very useful acquisition for the two Premier League clubs. Crystal Palace need more quality and depth in the attacking unit, and Hauge would add goals and creativity in the final third.
Leeds keen on Jens Petter Hauge
The report from TEAMtalk claims that Leeds United have been following the players since 2020, and it remains to be seen whether they can get the deal done. They have struggled in the attack this season, and they need to improve in that area of the pitch. They are fighting for survival in the Premier League. Signing the right players in January could help them stay up.
Jens Petter Hauge after the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2 match (Photo via Martin Ole Wold/Getty Images)
Leeds United could provide him with the platform to showcase his qualities in the Premier League. If he manages to impress, he might be able to secure a bigger move in future.
Similarly, Crystal Palace would be an attractive destination as well. They managed to win the FA Cup last season and the Community Shield in recent months. They have an exciting project, and they are competing in European football.
It will be interesting to see which of the two clubs comes forward with an offer to sign the player. He has the physicality and technical attributes to do well in English football, and he could be a very useful acquisition for both teams during the second half of the season.
Former Manchester United coach Rene Meulensteen admits he can’t fathom why current Red Devils manager Ruben Amorim has been unable to find a place in his team for Kobbie Mainoo.
It’s been a frustrating season for Mainoo, who has started just one of his 11 appearances for Amorim’s side so far this term – the defeat to Grimsby in the Carabao Cup.
The highly-rated young England international was previously a key player for Man Utd, playing 37 games in all competitions last season and 32 the year before that, including starting and scoring for the club in their FA Cup final victory over Manchester City.
Kobbie Mainoo now surely heading for Man United exit, says Rene Meulensteen
Speaking to BestNewBingoSites, as quoted by the Daily Mail, Meulensteen now believes we’re going to see Mainoo leave the club after his lack of opportunities.
Kobbie Mainoo in a Manchester United training session (Photo by Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images)
Meulensteen, who worked at Old Trafford under Sir Alex Ferguson, clearly isn’t happy with how Mainoo has been treated, however, saying he cannot understand why Amorim wouldn’t make more use of him alongside Bruno Fernandes in midfield.
Meulensteen said: “I think there’s a strong possibility that he leaves the club in January on loan. I think he tried to leave in the summer to follow Scott McTominay to Napoli, but the club blocked the move.
“Kobbie Mainoo played himself into the United team and the England set-up by playing absolutely fantastic football for someone so young. He established himself in this team as a starter, and the club and United fans love to see a young player from the academy being successful in the first team,” the Dutchman added.
“For whatever reason, Amorim doesn’t seem keen to play Kobbie which frustrates the fans and myself as I think he is a really talented player.
“I think the reason his game time has been significantly reduced is due to the signings United made over the summer and the formation they play. Signing Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo meant Bruno Fernandes has slotted back into a more defensive position, where we have seen Mainoo play in recent years.
“I can’t fathom why Mainoo and Bruno can’t play together, but maybe Amorim thinks they’re too similar. I would definitely like to see them play together.”
Man United to make changes in midfield?
One imagines Mainoo would have been given his chance by now if there really was any plan for Amorim to do so.
Things can change quickly in football, of course, but Mainoo surely isn’t going to wait around for much longer as he’ll need to play regularly in order to have any chance of making it into England’s squad for the 2026 World Cup next summer.
Napoli continue to be linked as the frontrunners to sign Mainoo, as per La Repubblica and others, so it will be interesting to see if he ends up following former teammate Scott McTominay to Serie A.
Manchester United are reportedly accelerating contacts with Real Madrid attacking midfielder and Arsenal transfer target Arda Guler.
The talented young Turkey international has long been regarded as one of the finest up-and-coming talents in Europe, and he’s become increasingly consistent and important in this Real Madrid side.
Still, it seems there could be some question marks over his future as Man Utd are said to be stepping up their efforts to bring him to Old Trafford, according to Spanish outlet Fichajes.
Arsenal and Liverpool are also among the clubs mentioned as suitors for Guler, who has previously been described by Madrid manager Xabi Alonso as “special” and a “natural talent”, as quoted by beIN Sports.
Arda Guler to leave Real Madrid for a transfer to the Premier League?
Arda Guler in action for Real Madrid (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
It remains to be seen if Guler will definitely leave the Bernabeu as it’s hard to see why he’d necessarily push to leave if the club are happy with him.
Fichajes suggest there could be a dilemma for Real if they receive tempting offers for Guler, and it’s fair to say that English clubs often pay big for their signings.
That financial power of the Premier League could end up being crucial, as Guler himself might also sense an opportunity to make more money if he moves to somewhere like United.
The 20-year-old still has a long career ahead of him, though, so if he continues to play regularly in Alonso’s side then he should surely continue to prioritise that development.
It’s easy to see, however, why MUFC might be desperate to try to lure Guler to Old Trafford.
Ruben Amorim’s side remain a work in progress, and someone with the kind of spark and creativity that Guler can bring looks like it would make sense as a priority.
It’s not as clear if such a role is really there at Arsenal, though, due to the presence of the likes of Martin Odegaard and Eberechi Eze, so that probably wouldn’t be the smartest move for him right now if he wants to carry on getting regular playing time.
In a chaotic season, Manchester United look even harder than most teams to figure out at the moment.
Yes, there will be far tougher tests than the awful Wolves side they thumped 4-1 on Monday night, but it’s still a result that moves them to 6th in the Premier League table, level on points with Chelsea.
Despite so much of the criticism that has come Ruben Amorim’s way, the Red Devils are also only six points behind rivals Manchester City. If they’d beaten Everton and West Ham they’d be only three points behind Arsenal right now.
Even if you frequently bet on football you’d probably struggle to work out what to make of this Man Utd side, who look as though they’re only ever one or two good results away from being in the title race, or an equal number of bad results away from finishing in the bottom half like they did last season.
Bryan Mbeumo celebrates scoring for Man United against Wolves (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
Manchester United are part of an extremely close mid-table group
While the last decade or so has been characterised by the so-called ‘big six’ in the Premier League being some distance away from the rest, that’s no longer really the case as clubs like Newcastle United and Aston Villa have broken into the Champions League places in the last few years.
Indeed, Villa are once again in the top four, as are Crystal Palace, and only six points separate fourth from 13th place.
Can United break away from this cluster of teams? Perhaps we’ll have a better idea after seeing who navigates this busy Christmas period better, but it would also be fair to say that getting back to the top alongside the Arsenals and Citys of this world looks like a bigger challenge than ever.
The Premier League is becoming the Super League by stealth
In the past, United were just battling to get ahead of three or four teams, but now the Premier League as a whole is stronger than ever, and there’s no big secret as to how that’s happened – money.
Wage bills are strongly correlated with success, and for 2025/26 you can see that ten English clubs feature in the top 20 for biggest wage bills in Europe’s big five leagues…
Top 20 wage bills in Europe
So, yes, although we still have the usual suspects like Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich in the top four, the reality of the modern Premier League is that United are competing against teams like Spurs and Villa, whose wage bills are higher than Serie A champions Napoli, while Nottingham Forest and West Ham aren’t far behind.
If it feels like the margins are so fine for MUFC at the moment, it’s because they are. It looks like it will be Arsenal or City for the title, five or six teams battling against relegation, while the rest of the places in the league table are up for grabs.
This is the new reality for United, let’s see how they grapple with it.
Liverpool may be interested in developments with Nico Schlotterbeck at Borussia Dortmund in the last 24 hours.
It seems the Germany international is now seen as increasingly likely to leave Dortmund in the summer after becoming unhappy with the club and looking for a new challenge.
Why does Nico Schlotterbeck look closer to leaving Borussia Dortmund?
The report from Fichajes notes that Schlotterbeck did not sound at all happy with BVB last night as he criticised the performance and mentality going into the game with Bodo/Glimt, which ended as a 2-2 draw.
Nico Schlotterbeck in action for Borussia Dortmund (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)
They quote him as saying: “The players who come on lose every ball. We’re playing in the Champions League. It’s far too little. We could have gotten 13 points here, and I think some weren’t aware of how important it is.”
It seems Dortmund themselves have not yet responded to this, but it all just adds to the sense that the 26-year-old will be leaving sooner or later.
Liverpool need a top defensive signing like Nico Schlotterbeck
LFC are having a difficult season and keep conceding a worrying amount of goals, so a new signing at centre-back looks essential for January, perhaps with another to follow next summer.
Ibrahima Konate is coming towards the end of his contract at Anfield, so might need replacing, while the ageing Virgil van Dijk has not quite looked at his best this season and may no longer be able to perform as consistently at the level he used to.
Schlotterbeck, by contrast, is approaching what should be his peak, and is clearly seeking a new challenge, with Liverpool surely the kind of level he’ll feel he should be playing at.
One issue, however, could be if Arne Slot’s side don’t improve enough in the months ahead to qualify for next season’s Champions League, which would surely see Schlotterbeck choose someone like Bayern, Real or Barca instead.
Former Barcelona director Jordi Cruyff has admitted the club almost signed Antony from Ajax while he was there, though they instead chose to bring in Raphinha.
Antony ended up moving from Ajax to Manchester United and it’s fair to say he proved to be a major flop at Old Trafford, but he’s since revived his career in Spain with Real Betis.
It seems Cruyff remains a big fan of Antony, describing him as a “special player” on today’s episode of The Overlap.
Antony celebrates a goal for Real Betis (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
Barcelona viewed Raphinha transfer as lower risk than Antony
Barcelona have been under a lot of pressure due to the Financial Fair Play rules in La Liga, and Cruyff felt that signing Antony might be riskier than Raphinha.
Although Cruyff is a fan of Antony, he felt that if he flopped at the Nou Camp it would be hard to make any money back on him later, whereas if Raphinha struggled he would probably have suitors in England due to shining at Leeds United.
In the end, Raphinha proved a big hit for the Catalan giants anyway, so this was clearly a good decision by Cruyff and co. overall.
Even if we’ll never know now, it’s perhaps a shame for Antony that he didn’t end up moving to Barcelona when they had an interest in him, as it could have been a better step for him when it came to leaving Ajax.
Many players have had a lot of joy going from Ajax to Barcelona down the years, including of course, Cruyff’s legendary father Johan.
Manchester City are in pole position to sign Bahia’s teenage sensation Dell, beating rivals Manchester United in the race for one of Brazil’s most exciting emerging talents, according to TEAMtalk.
The 17-year-old forward has become one of the hottest prospects in South America after a breakout year with Bahia, a club under the City Football Group (CFG) umbrella.
His rapid rise, both domestically and on the international stage, has caught the attention of several European giants, but City’s strategic ownership advantage may give them the inside track.
Dell has earned widespread acclaim for his explosive pace, clinical finishing, and intelligent movement, traits that have drawn early comparisons to Erling Haaland, City’s own prolific striker.
Man City and Man United are battling for Dell
The young Brazilian was one of the standout performers at the FIFA U17 World Cup, where he finished as the third-highest goalscorer of the tournament, enhancing his reputation as a natural finisher capable of thriving on the big stage.
At club level, Dell has already made two senior appearances for Bahia despite his age.
Coaches within the Bahia setup describe him as fearless, focused, and mature beyond his years.
His ability to play both as a central striker and a wide forward gives him tactical versatility, a key attribute admired by Pep Guardiola and City’s recruitment team.
City’s relationship with Bahia could prove decisive. The City Football Group, which owns both clubs, has long utilised its global network to identify and develop elite young players.
Despite City’s clear advantage, Man United have not given up. Scouts from Old Trafford reportedly monitored Dell’s performances at the U17 World Cup.
United’s recruitment team, under INEOS leadership, is prioritizing young attacking talent, and Dell fits that profile perfectly.
Chelsea’s recruitment drive shows no signs of slowing, with the Premier League giants now closely monitoring Barcelona’s highly rated midfielder Marc Casadó, according to TEAMtalk.
The 22-year-old has been on the radar of several top European clubs, but it is Chelsea who appear most determined to test Barcelona’s resolve.
Casadó has quietly emerged as one of La Masia’s brightest talents. A versatile midfielder with a strong tactical sense and exceptional work rate, Casadó has impressed for Barcelona’s first team and B side, often operating as a deep-lying playmaker or holding midfielder.
His intelligent positioning and sharp distribution have earned comparisons to former Barca captain Sergio Busquets, with many inside the club believing he could eventually fill that void long-term.
Barcelona could be forced to sell Marc Casadó
However, financial pressures at Barcelona could open the door to negotiations. The Catalan giants have been forced to make difficult squad decisions in recent transfer windows, and Chelsea are hoping to take advantage of that uncertainty.
The Blues reportedly made an official offer for forward Fermín López last summer and held talks over centre-back Eric García.
In addition, ongoing dialogue has been maintained regarding defenders Jules Koundé and Ronald Araúj, two players the London club have admired for some time.
Chelsea hold long term interest in Barca midfielder
Marc Casado in action for Barcelona vs Real Madrid (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Despite previous failed attempts to sign midfielder Marc Bernal and Casadó himself, Chelsea remain optimistic that they can persuade the young Spaniard to make the move to Stamford Bridge.
The club’s hierarchy view Casadó as a long-term investment, a player capable of anchoring their midfield for years to come under Enzo Maresca’s possession-based system.
Casadó remains committed to Barcelona, where he is pushing for more first-team opportunities.
Yet with Chelsea’s continued interest and the Premier League’s financial pull, the coming months could see the young midfielder’s future come under serious discussion.
Arsenal are eyeing both Real Madrid’s Rodrygo Goes and AC Milan’s Rafael Leao as long-term targets in attack, and are not currently seeking to sign a new striker.
As first reported here in my exclusive for the Daily Briefing, Arsenal still have a lot of faith in Viktor Gyokeres after spending big to sign him from Sporting Lisbon in the summer.
As such, the Gunners are not looking for a new centre-forward to replace Gyokeres, but are keeping in mind other attackers who could come in to help the Sweden international.
Sources tell me the names that feature most high up on Arsenal’s list are Rodrygo and Leao, who have long been on the north Londoners’ radar.
Arsenal relaxed about Viktor Gyokeres but eyeing Rodrygo Goes and Rafael Leao
Arsenal have made changes to their attack in recent times, with Gyokeres not the only new addition to Mikel Arteta’s front three over the summer.
Rafael Leao celebrates a goal for AC Milan (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
Noni Madueke also joined, and has played on both the left and right flanks, while Eberechi Eze has also sometimes been used in a front three when he’s not deputised for Martin Odegaard in a more central role.
Still, Leandro Trossard is not getting any younger, and Gabriel Martinelli has been a little inconsistent, while both Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz have had a lot of injury troubles.
That could leave room for a player of the profile or Rodrygo or Leao to come in and offer something different to help generally improve the strength of that front three.
Leao has mostly shone for Milan so would likely be a popular choice, and the stats below seem to back up that he might have the most all-round qualities to offer in that role…
Gabriel Martinelli stats vs Rafael Leao and Rodrygo Goes (DataMB)
Leao has this season performed best on non penalty goals and expected goals, as well as key passes and assists, though Rodrygo stands out for his dribbles and carries.
It will be interesting to see if either of these players end up being top targets soon, or if Arteta can work out an internal solution to get more out of Gyokeres at centre-forward.
Tensions at Liverpool have reached a boiling point as senior figures Richard Hughes, Michael Edwards, and manager Arne Slot prepare to hold emergency talks with Mohamed Salah following the forward’s controversial comments that have thrown the club into turmoil.
The Egyptian star’s recent public outburst, in which he accused the club of “throwing him under the bus” after being dropped for three consecutive games, has left Liverpool officials shocked and frustrated.
While Salah remains one of the team’s most important figures, his remarks have raised serious questions about his attitude, professionalism, and long-term commitment to the club, a trusted source on X has reported.
Salah’s frustrations stem from being benched for recent matches, despite his strong record and leadership role in the squad.
The 33-year-old was left out of the starting XI for three fixtures, one of which he entered at halftime and has since expressed his discontent both privately and publicly.
Liverpool hierarchy are siding with manager Arne Slot
Liverpool insiders, however, have been quick to defend Slot’s decision-making, insisting that team selection is based purely on tactical and physical considerations, not personal differences.
The club hierarchy fears Salah’s comments could undermine Slot’s authority and set a dangerous precedent within the dressing room.
The aim is to rebuild trust while setting firm boundaries for player conduct under Slot’s management.
Liverpool remain hopeful that Salah will reaffirm his commitment. However, sources close to the club say that if the situation doesn’t improve, the Reds are prepared to explore serious offers for the winger.
Reports from the Gulf suggest that intermediaries have already begun informal discussions, with Saudi representatives willing to offer Liverpool a significant fee.
Although Liverpool’s preference remains to keep Salah until the end of his contract, the club wants clarity before the January transfer window.
The upcoming meeting could prove decisive. If handled correctly, it might restore order and reaffirm the club’s united front. But if the fallout deepens, Liverpool could be forced into one of the most high-profile transfer sagas of 2026.
One issue, however, is that PSG currently prefer to keep Barcola, and could even try tying the 23-year-old down to a new contract, with his current deal due to end in 2028.
Is Bradley Barcola a realistic transfer target for Liverpool?
Even if PSG want to keep Barcola, it seems sources view this as a potentially realistic deal for Liverpool.
Barcola hasn’t managed to establish himself as an automatic starter for PSG due to there being so much competition in Luis Enrique’s side, so he might well be tempted to seek a move elsewhere.
The Frenchman could have a key role if he joined LFC to replace Salah, while sources also suggested that other big names like Manchester United could be in for him.
Bradley Barcola in action for PSG (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
“Liverpool have already begun background work on replacing Salah,” one well-placed figure in the industry told me. “A player they really like, and have been following closely for some time, is Bradley Barcola.”
Other sources suggested that Barcola would be “open” to considering his options, so that could open up an opportunity for Liverpool.
What could Barcola bring to Liverpool?
Barcola has pace, skill, and an eye for goal from out wide, and given his age, he surely still has his best years ahead of him.
With a total of six goals and five assists in all competitions for club and country this season, it’s clear that Barcola is adding consistent end-product to his game as he matures and develops.
Then again, it won’t be easy for anyone to replace a legendary figure like Salah, who has a total of 250 goals in 420 appearances for Liverpool.
Salah has often hit over 30 goals a season for the Reds, so Barcola on his own probably wouldn’t be enough to replace that kind of output, with the club also likely to need more from current players like Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz in attack.
Pep Guardiola has once again shown his class both on and off the pitch, earning praise for his post-match gesture toward Real Madrid forward Rodrygo Goes following Manchester City’s 2-1 Champions League victory at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday night.
The Premier League giants secured a crucial away win thanks to goals from Nico O’Reilly and Erling Haaland.
But one of the night’s most talked-about moments came after the final whistle, when Guardiola approached Rodrygo for a brief but heartfelt conversation.
Speaking to reporters after the match, Guardiola revealed what he told the Brazilian forward, as reported by Fabrizio Romano:
“I went to Rodrygo and I told him, ‘What a player you are… he’s really unbelievable.’”
Guardiola’s warm words appeared genuine but inevitably fueled transfer rumours, especially since Rodrygo’s name was heavily linked with a move to City during the 2025 summer transfer window.
Rodrygo, 24, has endured a turbulent campaign under manager Xabi Alonso. Once considered one of the brightest young attackers in world football, the Brazilian has struggled for consistency and playing time, finding himself in and out of Madrid’s starting lineup.
Before this clash, Rodrygo had gone 281 days without a goal. On Wednesday night, he finally broke his drought with a composed finish, a much-needed confidence boost despite Real’s defeat.
Alonso has tried deploying Rodrygo in several positions, including as a central striker, but the tactical shifts have hampered his rhythm.
Manchester United are preparing one of their most ambitious transfer moves in recent years, with reports from Fichajes claiming the club are ready to table a €100 million bid for Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton.
The move, spearheaded by manager Rúben Amorim and INEOS sporting director Sir Dave Brailsford, shows United’s determination to rebuild their midfield ahead of the 2026 season.
Sources close to Old Trafford describe Wharton as Amorim’s “dream signing”, a player seen as the perfect fit for the manager’s tactical system.
United’s hierarchy reportedly view the 21-year-old England international as a long-term presence in midfield, capable of bringing the composure, creativity, and defensive stability that the team has lacked in recent years.
Man United are desperate to sign a new midfielder
INEOS have identified midfield reinforcement as their number one priority for 2026, with Amorim pushing for significant investment to reshape the spine of his team.
The club believes that Wharton, who has developed into one of the Premier League’s standout young talents, could transform United’s control in possession and help implement Amorim’s demanding, high-intensity style.
Wharton’s rise at Crystal Palace has been meteoric. Signed from Blackburn Rovers, he has quickly established himself as one of the league’s most complete young midfielders.
His intelligent positioning, crisp passing, and ability to dictate tempo under pressure have drawn comparisons to England midfielders such as Michael Carrick and Declan Rice.
Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Palace are aware of growing interest across Europe but are under no pressure to sell. Wharton remains under a long-term contract, and any move would require a record-breaking offer, something Man United appear ready to provide.
United’s midfield overhaul is also being driven by the expected departure of Casemiro, whose contract expires in 2026.
The Brazilian veteran has struggled for consistency and fitness this season, and the club’s leadership now considers finding his successor essential to the team’s evolution.
Ben Harburg, an American sports investor who runs Al Kholood, has addressed the ongoing Salah stories amid the Egypt international’s falling out with Reds manager Arne Slot.
Needless to say, as you can see in the video clip below, Harburg has clearly been left unimpressed by Salah’s behaviour after his criticism of Slot for leaving him on the bench in recent matches…
?? "He's NOT a team player!" – Could Mohamed Salah to Saudi now be in serious doubt after his bust-up with Arne Slot? ? pic.twitter.com/olMkpFf6mt
Even if Salah is a big name, Harburg feels that he is no longer likely to be a top target for Saudi clubs after turning them down in the past and now publicly criticising his current employers.
Ben Harburg slams Mohamed Salah and plays down Saudi transfer links
When asked about a move for Salah, Harburg said: “I do think there’s already, even amongst the public, much more apprehension around his coming into the league.
“He’s 33 years old, he got paid a boatload a year or so ago, whatever it was, and has underperformed massively since then.
“He doesn’t strike me as a great team player. As an owner, when I look at the way he behaved there … if a player isn’t performing, they’re not going to be in the starting line up. We don’t put people in the starting line up based on what they did three seasons ago or even last season.
“All that, to me, combines for a fairly toxic combination of factors. So I would rather he not come here. I’m sure some people like his star power, he’s from the region, but my sentiment is that he is not a fit for our league.
Mohamed Salah in Liverpool FC training (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images)
“I would rather, if it were between him and Vinicius, I’d take Vinicius.
“I’m hoping we go after those 25-year-old next wave players rather than guys like Salah who definitely this would be the last stop on his career.”
What next for Salah if he leaves Liverpool?
This might not necessarily be representative of how others in Saudi feel, but it’s a bit of a warning sign for Salah if he does end up leaving Liverpool.
The 33-year-old might well have put suitors off with his recent antics, while it also saw him dropped entirely from Slot’s matchday squad for the Inter Milan game this week.
Salah surely would have suitors somewhere after such a great career with LFC, but this is a reminder that he can’t necessarily expect to throw a tantrum like this and just walk into another team.
Having said that, this also seems harsh on Salah considering that Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Al Nassr came about in much the same way, while it’s also not like Vinicius hasn’t had his issues with Real Madrid’s management this season.
Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has weighed in on Mohamed Salah’s uncertain future, suggesting that the Liverpool superstar’s relationship with the club has broken beyond repair but insisting there is no chance the Egyptian forward would ever cross the divide to Old Trafford.
Speaking on his YouTube show, Ferdinand addressed Salah’s explosive post-match interview, in which the 33-year-old accused Liverpool of “throwing him under the bus.”
The fallout from those comments, combined with his exclusion from recent starting lineups under Arne Slot, has thrown his future into serious doubt.
Liverpool are open-minded about Salah’s future ahead of the January transfer window.
Mohamed Salah reacts after Liverpool’s defeat to PSV (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Salah, who has scored over 200 goals for Liverpool since arriving from Roma in 2017, is one of the club’s all-time greats.
He has led the Reds to two Premier League titles, a Champions League crown, and multiple domestic cups, but his recent fallout with Slot, coupled with Saudi Arabia’s ongoing interest, has left the club braced for a major decision.
Still, with Ferdinand’s comments echoing the growing sentiment among pundits and fans alike, it seems increasingly likely that Salah could he heading out of Anfield soon.
As far as a move from Man United in concerned, it is wishful thinking from Ferdinand, more than anything else.
Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández has officially changed representatives, parting ways with his long-time agent Uriel Pérez to join The Elegant Game, an agency co-founded by former Argentina international and Paris Saint-Germain star Javier Pastore
According to Fabrizio Romano, the change of representation has been finalised.
It has sparked fresh speculation surrounding the Argentine’s long-term future at Stamford Bridge.
By signing with The Elegant Game, Enzo joins a growing roster of South American talent under Pastore’s management group, which has quickly gained traction in Europe’s football circles for its strong ties with Serie A and La Liga clubs.
Is Enzo Fernandez thinking about Chelsea exit?
The move was made primarily for “career development and global visibility,” but it has nonetheless stirred talk of a potential transfer away from Chelsea.
While there are no concrete offers on the table, several European powerhouses, including Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain, have been monitoring the World Cup winner’s situation since the summer.
Fernández joined Chelsea in January 2023 for a British record fee of £106.8 million after a breakout season with Benfica and a starring role in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph.
Although the midfielder has become a crucial part of the Chelsea squad, he has failed to deliver consistent performances at the club.
The club’s struggles under multiple managers, combined with Enzo’s inconsistent form and Chelsea’s lack of tactical stability, have led to growing frustrations within the squad.
Enzo Fernandez of Chelsea (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Under Maresca, Fernández has been deployed in various midfield roles, but the player prefers a more advanced, free-flowing position, one he has not always been granted.
This tactical mismatch has only fuelled speculation that he may reassess his long-term future.
Chelsea remain firm that Fernández is “not for sale,” viewing him as a central figure in their project.
Saudi Pro League clubs are reportedly prepared to go to any lengths to sign Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah, whether on a loan or permanent deal, according to Gulf News.
With tensions rising between Salah and Liverpool boss Arne Slot, sources close to the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns Al Hilal, Al Nassr, Al Ahli, and Al Ittihad, are closely monitoring the situation and are expected to make a major push during the January transfer window, when the Egyptian captain will be away at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Salah’s future at Liverpool has been thrown into serious doubt following his post-match interview after the 3-3 draw with Leeds United last weekend.
Left on the bench for a third consecutive game, the 33-year-old openly expressed frustration and hinted that his relationship with the club hierarchy and manager had broken down.
Could Mohamed Salah leave Liverpool next year?
Slot’s decision to repeatedly omit Salah from the starting lineup has reportedly divided the dressing room, with some senior players questioning the handling of the club’s most decorated modern star.
The controversy has now reached the Liverpool boardroom, where internal discussions have begun over whether to consider offers this winter.
The Saudi Public Investment Fund, which bankrolls the Pro League’s biggest clubs, is said to view Salah as a crown-jewel acquisition, the player who could elevate the league’s global profile to a new level.
According to Gulf News, PIF-backed clubs, Al Hilal, Al Nassr, Al Ahli, and Al Ittihad, are coordinating closely, with a shared determination to bring Salah to the Kingdom.
Beyond those giants, Neom FC and Al Qadsiah, both emerging powerhouses, are also in the race.
Club insiders maintain that the priority remains for him to see out his contract, which runs until 2027, though they acknowledge that “every scenario” will be evaluated depending on January’s circumstances.
Salah’s omission from the Champions League squad against Inter Milan was not disciplinary but rather a “short-term response” to the media storm following his comments.
However, his continued absence could signal a deeper rift between the forward and the management team.
Manchester United are preparing to test the waters with an ambitious January move for AFC Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo, but Liverpool remain in pole position to secure the Ghanaian’s signature, according to TEAMtalk.
The 25-year-old has been one of the breakout performers of the Premier League season, and his explosive form has placed him firmly on the radar of England’s elite.
Semenyo has been in scintillating form this campaign, registering six goals and three assists in the Premier League so far, the third-highest combined goal contribution tally in the division.
His form has made him a nightmare for defenders and a key figure in Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth revolution.
Antoine Semenyo is lighting up the Premier League
Semenyo has gone from a promising Championship prospect to one of the most exciting forwards in English football.
His ability to play across the front lin, on either wing or as a second striker, has added tactical flexibility to Bournemouth’s attack, and his relentless energy off the ball has attracted attention from the top clubs.
The Red Devils view Semenyo as an ideal addition to rejuvenate their inconsistent front line.
Sources close to Old Trafford suggest that United’s hierarchy are willing to push aggressively for the deal, particularly if player sales, including possible January exits, can help balance Financial Fair Play constraints.
The Ghana international’s dynamic style fits naturally into Slot’s high-tempo attacking philosophy, and Liverpool’s recent scouting reports have been overwhelmingly positive.
Liverpool’s recruitment team view Semenyo as a long-term successor to Mohamed Salah, whose future at Anfield remains uncertain amid continued interest from the Saudi Pro League.
The winger’s Premier League experience and versatility make him an ideal fit for Liverpool’s attack.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher looks like he might have absolutely nailed this bold pre-season prediction about Arsenal’s strikers.
An old video has resurfaced on social media after another difficult night last night for Viktor Gyokeres, who has just six goals since joining the Gunners in the summer.
It looked like Arsenal clearly needed a major investment up front after their struggles in that department last season, but Gyokeres hasn’t quite made the impact many fans would have hoped for after being so prolific at his former club Sporting Lisbon.
Jamie Carragher backs Kai Havertz to be Arsenal’s striker
Watch below as the pundit discussed Arsenal’s search for a new striker, making it clear that he felt Kai Havertz would most likely come back in to the starting line up ahead of whoever came in…
This was quite a bold claim, but it now looks like once Havertz is fit again, there’d be a strong case for Mikel Arteta selecting him over Gyokeres.
Even if the Germany international had had his critics during his time at the Emirates Stadium, with debates about if playing up front is even his best position, it would also be fair to say he’s been an underrated part of this side’s success.
Viktor Gyokeres warming up for Arsenal (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
Can Viktor Gyokeres turn things around at Arsenal?
Gyokeres has, in fairness, only just come back from an injury, so perhaps he deserves a bit more time to find his best form.
The 27-year-old was an absolute goal machine in Portugal, scoring 97 goals in 102 games at Sporting, so there’s always a chance he’ll rediscover that form here once he’s more settled and confident.
It’s not happening for him at the moment, though, so it will be interesting to see if he can keep his place once Havertz comes back.
AC Milan are preparing an ambitious move to sign Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker, according to Sky Sports journalist Sacha Tavolieri.
The Rossoneri are anticipating the departure of Mike Maignan at the end of the season, with Chelsea reportedly leading the race to sign the French international, and have already opened initial contact with Alisson’s representatives.
Maignan, 30, has been a vital figure for AC Milan since arriving from Lille but is now expected to leave amid growing Premier League interest.
Chelsea view him as a long-term replacement for current goalkeeper Robert Sánchez.
Milan identify Liverpool star Alisson as transfer target
With Milan braced for his exit, sporting director Igli Tare has moved quickly to explore potential successors and Alisson’s name tops the shortlist.
The Italian giants see the Brazilian as the ideal candidate to bring both experience and leadership to their backline.
According to Tavolieri, preliminary talks have already taken place between Milan and Alisson’s representatives to gauge interest and feasibility ahead of the summer transfer window.
Alisson, now 33, remains one of Liverpool’s most respected figures and a cornerstone of their modern success. Since joining from AS Roma in 2018 for a then world-record fee of £67 million, the Brazilian has helped the Reds win the Premier League and the Champions League.
However, his contract, which runs until June 2027, could become a talking point next summer.
Alisson Becker of Liverpool in action vs Crystal Palace (Photo by Tom Dulat/Getty Images)
While some at Liverpool see Alisson as indispensable, others believe selling him before his value declines could make financial sense, especially given the need to refresh several areas of the squad.
Liverpool’s immediate focus remains on their Champions League and Premier League campaigns, while Milan are navigating a tight Serie A title race.
But with Maignan’s future uncertain and Alisson reportedly open to a new challenge before the twilight of his career, the coming summer could set the stage for the Brazilian moving to the Italian league.
The 23-year-old Brazilian has been one of Premier League’s best performers since his arrival from Corinthians and his meteoric rise has now placed him firmly on the radar of Europe’s elite.
When Nottingham Forest secured Murillo from Corinthians, few could have predicted just how quickly he would adapt to English football.
The Brazilian defender has since become a cornerstone of Forest’s backline, showcasing an exceptional blend of physical strength, composure on the ball, and tactical maturity rarely seen in defenders of his age.
Murillo has been in impressive form for Forest
His performances in the Premier League have not only solidified Forest’s defense but also earned him a call-up to the Brazil national team, where he is now viewed as part of a new generation of tale.
Murillo’s consistency, coupled with his ability to carry the ball out from the back, often drawing comparisons to former Chelsea defender David Luiz and Real Madrid’s Éder Militão, has made him a target for top clubs.
Forest are under no pressure to sell their prized asset. The 23-year-old penned a four-and-a-half-year contract extension at the club.
Murillo in action for Nottingham Forest in pre-season (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Sources suggest that any potential deal would require a club-record fee exceeding £55 million, the amount Newcastle United paid to sign Anthony Elanga, if Forest are to even consider parting ways with their defensive lynchpin.
That valuation, however, is expected to rise even further if Murillo continues his current trajectory.
Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham made an intriguing comment after his side’s 2-1 defeat at home to Manchester City in the Champions League last night.
The England international played 90 minutes and set up the opening goal for Rodrygo Goes against Man City, who came from behind to win 2-1 at the Bernabeu.
That made it back-to-back defeats for Real, who have also won just twice in their last eight games in all competitions under struggling manager Xabi Alonso.
Alonso is surely running out of time to turn things around at Madrid, though Sky journalist Patrick Berger has posted on X with an update saying that the Spanish tactician is currently still safe…
??? Xabi Alonso will NOT be sacked for now and will be given the match against Alaves, Real Madrid sources telling us. @SkySportDE
Still, for now it seems sources are only committing to one more game for Alonso, and Bellingham made some interesting comments after last night’s game.
Jude Bellingham on Real Madrid fans booing
As well as cryptically saying that something had changed after this result, Bellingham also made it clear that the home fans were entitled to boo the team for this performance.
See below for the 22-year-old’s comments to CBS Sports, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano…
? Jude Bellingham: “Today something changed, I can feel that. Now we must understand that we have to improve, all of us”.
“I can understand the ‘boos’, people pay a lot of money to follow us and we play for the best club in the world”, told CBS Sports. pic.twitter.com/SKmClu9iXn
It’s not yet clear what Bellingham meant by saying that something had changed, but it’s pretty damning that he felt the fans were justified in booing.
This could be taken as Bellingham accepting that he and his teammates have let the supporters down, or it could be a dig at the manager for failing to get more out of them and overseeing another bad result.
What’s gone wrong for Xabi Alonso?
Alonso did a hugely impressive job at former club Bayer Leverkusen, establishing himself as one of the most exciting coaches in world football.
Xabi Alonso at Real Madrid
28 games in charge
Wins
19
Draws
4
Losses
5
Win %
67.86%
However, the 44-year-old is not having the same effect at Real Madrid and perhaps that shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise.
Even if Alonso did so well at Leverkusen, he remains relatively inexperienced, and the Madrid job is arguably the biggest and most high-pressured in world football.
Alonso also inherited a slightly unbalanced squad that didn’t perform particularly well in their final season under Carlo Ancelotti either.
It could be that Real need a major rebuilding job, but it remains to be seen if they’ll be patient enough to let Alonso be the man to take charge of it.
Arsenal’s teenage prodigy Max Dowman has suffered a setback in his promising early career after sustaining ankle ligament damage during a recent friendly against Manchester United, according to The Athletic.
The 15-year-old, widely regarded as one of England’s brightest young attacking talents, is expected to be sidelined for around two months, though thankfully, surgery will not be required.
The injury occurred during a behind-closed-doors friendly between Arsenal and Manchester United’s youth sides last week.
Dowman was on the receiving end of a heavy challenge from an opposing defender, which saw him go down clutching his right ankle.
Arsenal star Max Dowman suffers ligament damage
Medical staff immediately assessed the situation, and subsequent scans confirmed ligament damage, but no fracture, a relief for the player and club alike.
Arsenal’s academy doctors have opted for a non-surgical recovery plan, meaning Dowman will undergo an intensive rehabilitation program designed to restore mobility and strength in the joint.
Early assessments suggest he could return to full training by late February, provided his recovery progresses smoothly.
Despite his young age, Dowman has been fast-tracked through Arsenal’s youth ranks thanks to his maturity and potential.
The England youth international has drawn comparisons to players like Phil Foden and Jack Wilshere for his balance, creativity, and ability to dictate play from advanced positions.
Dowman has already featured regularly for Arsenal’s Under-18s this season, and his performances have not gone unnoticed by first-team staff.
Max Dowman applauds the Arsenal fans (Photo by Gabriel Kuchta/Getty Images)
The youngster made his Premier League debut this season which shows how much faith Arteta has in his talent.
The Gunners are expected to take a cautious approach to his rehabilitation. Dowman will continue working closely with Arsenal’s medical and performance teams at London Colney, focusing on controlled mobility exercises before returning to light ball work in the coming weeks.
Club insiders have stressed that his recovery will not be rushed, given both his age and long-term potential.
Crystal Palace are hoping to agree on a new contract with Daichi Kamada.
The Japanese International has been outstanding since joining the London club. He is nearing the end of his deal, and he will be a free agent in the summer. According to Football Insider, Crystal Palace are now looking to keep him at the club for the long term.
“He’s slotted into the side brilliantly, especially this season after what was a slow start, and obviously was key in the team that won the FA Cup last year.
“He is another example of what I think is the best thing about Crystal Palace, he works hard for the team, plays his role and there’s no ego or arrogance about him.
“From what I’m told, the management and coaching staff rate him very highly, and that’s always a positive when they have that sort of relationship.
“Palace are determined to recognise what he’s brought to the team, and to keep hold of him because of how impressive he has been.”
He is capable of operating in multiple roles, and he will add goals and creativity to the side. Crystal Palace are already likely to lose Marc Guehi soon, and they will not want to lose the midfielder as well. It remains to be seen whether the player is prepared to commit his future to the club.
He is enjoying his football in the Premier League, and he’s playing for a competitive team with a quality manager. There is no reason for him to leave the club, and it is fair to assume that an agreement will be reached eventually.
Crystal Palace recently won the FA Cup and the Community Shield. They will look to fight for trophies fairly regularly, and they need to keep their best players. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has confirmed that the club will not be exercising their option to sign Liverpool loanee Harvey Elliott on a permanent basis.
The 22-year-old midfielder, who arrived at Villa Park on deadline day has struggled for minutes and now faces an uncertain future as he prepares to return to Merseyside.
Unai Emery confirms Aston Villa will not sign Harvey Elliot
Speaking ahead of Aston Villa’s Europa League clash against FC Basel, Emery was candid about the situation, effectively ruling out a long-term stay for the former Fulham prodigy.
With only five appearances to his name and having not featured since October, that threshold is unlikely to be met.
Emery said: “We are speaking with him. Hopefully we can get a solution for him to try to play consistently, to continue in his career with us or not.
“He is on loan here, but not definitely adding to us with a permanent contract.”
Elliott’s time in the Midlands has been frustrated by tactical misalignments and stiff competition, with the midfielder failing to displace Villa’s established players.
His last outing came over two months ago, and he has frequently been left out of matchday squads entirely.
(Photo by Shaun Brooks – CameraSport via Getty Images)
What’s next for Harvey Elliot?
Harvey Elliott is expected to return to Liverpool next month. The midfielder was allowed to leave Anfield in the summer having fallen down the pecking order under Arne Slot.
However, given Liverpool’s current situation and the mounting pressure on Slot; should there be a managerial change at Liverpool, Elliott, who has been dubbed as ‘world-class‘ by Glen Johnson, could yet be handed a lifeline to prove his worth at his boyhood club.
Norwegian International Erling Haaland has been exceptional since he moved to Manchester City.
He is undoubtedly one of the best players in the world, and he was linked with other clubs before he decided to join Manchester City. In an interview, the player has now revealed that he watched Newcastle United as a kid, and there were plenty of Newcastle fans in Norway when he was growing up. He also added that there were several Leeds United fans as well.
Erling Haaland on Newcastle
Haaland said on The Rest is Football: “Because in Norway, it’s the league we watch. Everyone in Norway has got a team. There’s so many Newcastle supporters, especially in my hometown, because it’s under one hour flight to Newcastle.
“It’s really close. You know, so it’s always been that there’s so many Leeds fans.”
Reacting to his comments, former Premier League stars Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer questioned why he did not end up joining Newcastle.
“Why didn’t you go to Newcastle?” Lineker asked. “I was just about to ask that myself,” Shearer added.
Erling Haaland celebrates a goal for Manchester City (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
Haaland would have been an exceptional acquisition for Newcastle, and the Magpies will be left wondering what could have been if they had managed to sign a player like him. He has been unstoppable for Manchester City since joining the club, and he could have transformed Newcastle in the attack.
The Magpies have an ambitious project and a quality team right now. They are hoping to build a squad capable of winning trophies every season. They have done well to sign the German attacker Nick Woltemade recently. However, they need more creativity on the side. It remains to be seen whether they can bring in the necessary additions and improve the team during the January transfer window.
They will be hoping to finish as high as possible and secure Champions League qualification for the next season.
Leeds United have had a mediocre start to the Premier League campaign, and they are struggling right now.
They will be desperate for survival in the Premier League, but they need quality players in order to bounce back strongly. They will not want to go back to the second division of English football at the end of the season.
Leeds told they need someone like Scott McTominay
Leeds United legend Gordon Strachan has now claimed that they need better players in order to stay up. He believes that someone like Scott McTominay could make a defining impact at Leeds United. He went to compare Leeds with the Scotland national team, which is also dependent on McTominay. Strachan believes that Leeds need someone who can carry them in the top flight and guide them to safety.
The Scottish International has been outstanding for Napoli, and he helped them win the league title last season. He was nominated for the Ballon d’Or as well.
Strachan said via LeedsPress: “I think they will have to get by on common sense and effort, and hope that is enough, because there are not enough star players there. They’re a bit like Scotland. They need to make the most of what they have, and they have to earn their wins as a team; every move has to be earned. Unless they get a Scott McTominay, they will struggle in the best league in the world.”
Scott McTominay in action for Napoli (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
A move for McTominay is unrealistic, and Leeds will need to find someone who can help them during the second half of the season. They need more goals and creativity on the side, and it remains to be seen whether they can bring in a dynamic attacker who can make a big difference in the final third.
Leeds are close to the relegation zone, and they will be desperate for survival. A club of their stature should be competing in the Premier League. They spent a lot of money during the summer transfer window, and Daniel Farke is under a lot of pressure to guide them to safety.
Leicester City midfielder Harry Winks has been linked with a move away from the club when the transfer window reopens in January.
The midfielder lost his place in the team when he had a fallout with Ruud Van Nistelrooy. However, his situation changed after the arrival of Maruti Cifuentes. Now the player is struggling to hold down a starting spot once again. It will be interesting to see if he can establish himself as a key player for the Foxes during the second half of the season.
Harry Winks could be useful
There is no doubt that they need more control and composure in the middle of the park. The former Tottenham midfielder could be very useful for them. However, he will need to convince the manager that he deserves more opportunities in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, Adrian Clarke believes that they certainly something going on behind the scenes at the club, and that is why Winks has struggled for regular opportunities.
“Harry Winks, there is an issue with Harry Winks, I don’t know what it is, but he had a poor game last week and got hooked at half time”, Clarke said via InsideFutbol.
“There is talk of stuff at the training ground and whatnot, hbut e was left out of the squad altogether.
“There is clearly something going on behind the scenes and it wouldn’t surprise me if he moved on in January if they could find a buyer.”
Harry Winks applauds the Leicester City fans (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
It will be interesting to see if the Foxes decide to cash in on the player during the January transfer window. He has the quality and the experience to help them improve, but things have not gone according to plan for him this season. Perhaps a fresh start would be ideal for the player as well. It remains to be seen whether he decides to seek an exit in January.
Leicester have had a disappointing season so far, and they will look to bounce back strongly. If they decide to cash in on the midfielder, they will need to bring in a quality replacement.
Mo Salah has fallen out with Liverpool after his explosive interview on Saturday following draw against Leeds United.
Having been left on the bench for three consecutive games, Salah came out guns blazing, accusing the club of throwing him under the bus.
Salah stated that someone at the club does not want him at Liverpool anymore. He even hinted that the upcoming clash against Brighton could be his farewell appearance, amid growing rumours of a January exit.
Some believe the only reason Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes agreed to give Salah a new deal was so they can sell him for a significant profit.
And now that scenario could come true. Saudi Pro League CEO Omar Mugharbel himself has admitted that Salah is welcome in the Saudi League, stating that he is one of their targets.
He said as quoted by Fabrizio Romano: “Mohamed Salah is welcome in the Saudi League but it is the clubs that are responsible for negotiating with the players.
“For sure, Salah is one of them (targets).”
??? Saudi Pro League CEO Omar Mugharbel at WFS: “Mohamed Salah is welcome in the Saudi League, but it is the clubs that are responsible for negotiating with players”.
The comments land at a sensitive moment for the Liverpool forward.
Could Salah have already played his final Liverpool game?
(Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)
Salah has already stated that he would “say goodbye” to fans after Liverpool’s home clash with Brighton, regardless of whether he plays or not.
He is set to leave for AFCON duty immediately after the Brighton game, meaning he could be away for up to a month.
If Liverpool decide to accept a Saudi offer during that period, the forward may never play for the club again.
Unless the situation is resolved quickly, all signs point toward an imminent and emotional end to Mohamed Salah’s era at Anfield, one that now looks closer than ever.
According to football insider, Liverpool could now perform a U-turn on his future and look to offer him a new contract. The report further claims that there have been “ongoing talks” between the two parties.
Liverpool want to keep the player at the club, and it remains to be seen whether they can get the deal done. Keeping the 26-year-old would be a wise decision. He is one of the best players at the club, and he could be an asset for them in the coming season. They need his quality and experience at the back.
The player was heavily linked with clubs like Real Madrid, and it remains to be seen whether any top team is willing to come forward and provide him with an exit route. Foreign clubs will be able to agree on a pre-contract deal with the defender during the January window.
Ibrahima Konate reacts during Liverpool’s defeat (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)
Losing a player of his quality for free would be a devastating blow for Liverpool. They must do everything in their power to keep him at the club. He has helped them win the league title last season, and they need him if they want to fight for major trophies in the near future.
It has been a disappointing season for Liverpool so far, and they need to keep their squad intact if they want to bounce back strongly. It remains to be seen whether they can convince the French international to commit his long-term future to the club.
Mo Salah accused of being jealous of Florian Wirtz
Hesse claims Arne Slot has made it clear internally that Wirtz is now viewed as the future focal point of Liverpool’s attack, a shift that has reportedly left Salah feeling pushed aside despite his outstanding contributions last season.
The report goes further, stating:
“Internally, they’ve known for years that Mo Salah has the biggest ego at the club. This was accepted as long as he delivered goals, like last season, when he fired Liverpool to the championship with 29 goals. But it was also clear: if he stopped scoring, he would lose the club’s support.”
Hesse argues that Salah has not accepted this “transition of power,” saying:
“Only Salah seems not to have grasped this. After being benched three times in a row, he launched a scathing attack. He didn’t care about his teammates and publicly stayed silent when Florian Wirtz and Arne Slot came under fire.”
“The fact that Wirtz is now leading the attack, ushering in a future in which Salah plays no part, sent the Egyptian into a rage. He’s the enemy of his own dressing room. But not for much longer. Liverpool must sell Salah immediately so that the “You’ll Never Walk Alone” feeling returns to the team.”
(Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Why this Salah accusation is far from the truth
However, there are strong reasons to question these allegations — starting with the overwhelming support Salah still enjoys from his teammates.
If Salah were truly a disruptive figure or a jealous presence in the dressing room, Liverpool’s squad harmony would have fractured long ago. Instead, the opposite is true.
Behind the scenes at the AXA Training Centre, Salah remains one of the most respected and well-liked players in the squad.
??Dominik Szoboszlai on Mohamed Salah: “I love him so much as a human being and as a friend of mine. As a player he’s done so much for this club. It will be a decision for the club and him.” #LFCpic.twitter.com/fZbTMgv1iy
Far from being an isolated figure consumed by ego, Salah continues to be the heartbeat of the squad, making the club’s apparent attempts to reduce his role even more confusing.
There have been rumours that Liverpool will sign him during the January transfer window. Finance expert Dan Plumley has now revealed to Football Insider that money will not be a problem for the Premier League champions if they decide to sign the player.
There have been reports that Liverpool might need to sell someone to make way for the African. However, they are in a healthy financial situation and will be able to afford Ghana international without any problems.
Plumley said: “They’re one of the most dominant clubs financially in English football at the minute, so the money side of Semenyo is not a problem for Liverpool.”
Antoine Semenyo in action for Bournemouth against Chelsea (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
They need more quality and depth in the attacking unit, and the 25-year-old could be a game-changer for them. He is capable of operating anywhere across the front three and will add a lot of goals and creativity to the side. He is well settled in English football, and he could make an immediate impact. Semenyo has been hailed as “world-class” by his teammates.
Liverpool have opened negotiations to sign the player, and Diomande will cost around £88 million. It will be interesting to see if Liverpool are prepared to pay up for him. They need a quality wide player who can take on defenders and beat them in one-versus-one situations. Liverpool need more unpredictability in the final third.
The 19-year-old is a tremendous talent, and he is expected to develop into a world-class player with the right guidance. He would be a long-term investment for the club, and Liverpool could nurture him into a future star.
The asking price is quite high, and Liverpool will probably hope to sign him for a more reasonable amount of money. It will be interesting to see if they can convince the German outfit.
Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig in action. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
The young attacker will certainly be attracted to the idea of joining Liverpool. It would be a huge opportunity, and he will look to improve his quality in the Premier League.
The report claims that any move is unlikely in January, and Liverpool might be laying the foundations to sign him at the end of the season. The report further confirms that Liverpool have “daily contact” with Diomande’s agents. It will be interesting to see if they can agree on a deal with his club now.
The player will be excited to take a new challenge, and he could be the ideal long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah.
Chelsea are looking to sign the French defender Castello Lukeba from RB Leipzig.
They have scouted the 22-year-old central defender this season, and the scouts have come up with glowing reviews of the defender.
Chelsea preparing Castello Lukeba move
Chelsea are looking to add more quality to the defensive unit, and they are prepared to submit an offer for him. According to a report from TEAMtalk, Chelsea are prepared to submit an offer soon, and they are hoping to sign him in January. They could offer around £48-52 million.
The report claims that the player has a release clause of £70 million, which will activate at the end of the season. However, the German club could look to sell him for a fee close to £52 million in January, if they fail to close in on the Champions League qualification positions.
Castello Lukeba of RB Leipzig (Photo by Pau Barrena/Getty Images)
The opportunity to move to England could be quite exciting for Lukeba. It would be a major step up in his career. Chelsea are one of the biggest clubs around, and the opportunity to play for them will be quite attractive. Chelsea will be hoping to fight for major trophies in the coming seasons, and they need to tighten up at the back. The 22-year-old could prove to be an upgrade on some of the current options.
Similarly, Liverpool and Manchester United need defensive depth as well. They have looked quite vulnerable at the back, and they need to tighten up.
It will be interesting to see which of the three clubs decides to submit an official proposal in the coming weeks. £52 million might seem expensive for the young defender right now, but he is still only 22 with plenty of room for development. He could easily justify the investment in future.
Aston Villa are hoping to sign the Gremio attacker Alysson Edward, and they are now close to getting the deal done.
According to Radio Imortal, the Brazilian club is in the process of finalising the player’s move to the English club, and he is expected to travel to England in the coming days. The 19-year-old is highly rated at the Brazilian club, and he has a big future ahead of himself.
He is a right-sided winger who is capable of operating anywhere across the front three. He will look to add pace, flair, unpredictability, and goals to the side. Alysson has plenty of room for development, and Aston Villa could groom him into a future star.
It is no secret that they needed more quality and depth in the attacking unit. It will be interesting to see if the South American can make any immediate impact. He is a young player, and he might need some time to adapt to English football. However, there is no doubt that he has the technical attributes to succeed in the Premier League.
Alysson Edward of Gremio dribbles past Micael of Palmeiras. (Photo by Pedro H. Tesch/Getty Images)
Unai Emery is a quality manager, and he could play a key role in the development of the Brazilian. It will be interesting to see if you can unlock the player’s true potential. If Aston Villa can get the deal done for a reasonable amount of money, the transfer could look like a major coup in the long term.
Aston Villa are looking to build a formidable team for the future. They need to invest in talented young players like Alysson. They can’t afford to sign ready-made superstars, and it would be wise of them to invest in talented young players and groom them into future stars.
Manchester United are interested in signing the talented young Ecuadorian midfielder Ederson Castillo.
The 16-year-old midfielder is a target for other top clubs, including Atletico Madrid. According to a report from Bolavip, Manchester United have scouted him recently, and it will be interesting to see if they can get the deal done.
Can Man United sign Ederson Castillo?
Castillo can only join a European club once he turns 18. It remains to be seen whether Manchester United are prepared to be patient with him. There is no doubt that he is a promising young player with a bright future. He could develop into an important player for the Red Devils with the right guidance.
Manchester United have done well to nurture Young players in the past, and they could help Castillo fulfil his potential. The move to England could help him improve further and develop into a quality player.
Manchester United have the financial means to get the deal across the line, and convincing the youngster to join the club will not be too difficult. He will be attracted to the idea of playing for one of the biggest clubs in the world. Manchester United have an impressive track record when it comes to grooming young players. Any young talent will be attracted to the idea of joining them.
Meanwhile, clubs like Atletico Madrid could be attractive opportunities for the youngster as well. They are one of the biggest clubs in Spain, and they have an ambitious project. It remains to be seen whether Manchester United can win the race for his signature.
Whoever ends up signing Castillo could have a future star on their hands. If they can sign the 16-year-old for a reasonable amount of money, the deal could look like a shrewd investment.
The Burkina Faso midfielder will arrive from Sporting Cascade FC. It will be interesting to see if he can establish himself as an important player for the French outfit and eventually end up at Chelsea. He is a talented player with a bright future. The opportunity to compete in European football will be exciting for him. He will want to play for a big club like Chelsea in future.
Zongo has not only been linked with Chelsea, but other top clubs were also monitoring his progress. It will be interesting to see if he gets ample opportunities at the French club so that he can continue his development with regular football at a high level. He has the potential to develop into a quality player with the right guidance.
If he manages to continue his development over the next few seasons, he is likely to end up at Chelsea. It would be an exceptional opportunity for him, and he will look to prove himself in the Premier League in future.
Meanwhile, the 16-year-old would be a long-term asset for BlueCo, and they will hope that he can fulfil his potential with them. The player could end up saving millions in the transfer market for them.
Zongo is an attacking midfielder, but he is capable of operating as an advanced central midfielder as well. He has the technical attributes to compete at a high level, and he needs to be nurtured properly.
Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with a move for the Eintracht Frankfurt full-back Nathaniel Brown.
The 22-year-old has been linked with a move away from the German club, and the two London outfits are keen on securing his signature, as per TEAMtalk. It will be interesting to see which of them can get the deal done. He has been an important player for Frankfurt, and he impressed against Barcelona yesterday.
Brown could excel in the Premier League
There is no doubt that he has the quality to play in the Premier League. He could help out at both ends of the pitch. He is a capable defender and quite effective going forward. The opportunity to move to England could be exciting for him. He will want to play for the biggest club in the world, and the likes of Arsenal and Tottenham will be attractive destinations.
However, both clubs have ample depth in the left back department. It will be interesting to see how they accommodate in in the starting lineup if he joins the club. Brown must secure gametime assurance before joining a new team. Sitting on the bench in the Premier League will not benefit him.
He is a top talent with a bright future, and regular football could bring out the best in him. It remains to be seen how the situation unfolds.
Nathaniel Brown of Eintracht Frankfurt (Photo by Francesco Pecoraro/Getty Images)
Manchester United and Manchester City are monitoring his progress as well. The defender is unlikely to be a chief acquisition. He is likely to cost over £50 million. It will be interesting to see if Arsenal or Tottenham decide to follow up on their interest with an official proposal to get the deal done.
Manchester United and Manchester City are interested in signing the Trabzonspor midfielder Inao Oulai.
The 19-year-old is highly rated at the Turkish club, and he could cost around £35 million, as per TEAMtalk. The towering midfielder has done quite well in Turkey, and he could prove to be a solid long-term investment for the two Premier League clubs as well.
He has been labelled as the next Yaya Toure because of the similarities when it comes to playing style. Manchester United could certainly use a player of that ilk, and Oulai could be ideal for them. The opportunity to join Manchester United will be exciting for him. It would be a step up in his career, and he would get to test himself in the Premier League.
Meanwhile, Manchester City need more quality in the middle of the park as well. It will be interesting to see if they can convince the player to join them instead. Both clubs of the financial muscle to pay £35 million for him. The deal could look like a bargain if Oulai manage to fulfil his potential in the Premier League.
Both clubs have done well to groom young players in recent years, and it will be interesting to see where the 19-year-old ends up. He should seek gametime assurance before joining a new team. Sitting on the bench in the Premier League will not benefit him. He should only look to join a team where he will get regular opportunities.
Other clubs are monitoring his progress as well, and the Premier League clubs will have to move quickly if they want to win the race for his signature.
Marc Guehi has been linked with a move away from Crystal Palace in recent months.
Liverpool and Barcelona are interested in signing the player, but the defender wants to join Liverpool. According to a report from TEAMtalk, the 25-year-old defender is “very keen” on moving to Liverpool as it is his childhood dream to play for them.
The development will come as a blow for Barcelona, who were hoping to sign the player. Meanwhile, it is no secret that Liverpool need more quality in the defensive unit. The England International could improve them immensely. Ibrahima Konate will leave the club when his contract expires, and he has not signed an extension with Liverpool yet. The Crystal Palace star could be the ideal replacement for the French international.
It will be interesting to see if Liverpool can agree on a deal to sign the player in the coming weeks. There have been rumours that Liverpool could look to pay a nominal fee and sign the player in January instead of waiting until the summer to sign him for free.
Liverpool have looked quite mediocre, defensively this season, and they need to tighten up in that area of the pitch. Signing Guehi in January would be a wise decision. Liverpool have looked quite mediocre, defensively this season, and they need to tighten up in that area of the pitch. Signing Guehi could help them get their season back on track.
Barcelona will need to improve defensively as well. It will be interesting to see if they decide to move on to other targets, especially now that the 25-year-old would prefer to join Liverpool instead. The Premier League side have more financial resources compared to the Spanish champions as well. They will be the favourites to get the deal done.
Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson is expected to be sold at the end of this season, with the signing of Emanuel Emegha already in place.
The Blues have loaned Jackson out to Bayern Munich for this season, and it’s not been the easiest start to life at the Allianz Arena for the Senegal international.
Bayern have the option to make Jackson’s move permanent, but it remains to be seen if they’ll take it, though Chelsea will likely sell him anyway.
Chelsea’s striker options next season with Emanuel Emegha
It will be interesting to see Emegha at Chelsea next season as he looks like he already has the potential to come in and be Enzo Maresca’s first choice straight away.
It makes sense that Jackson isn’t part of Chelsea’s plans after some underwhelming form, while Joao Pedro and Liam Delap haven’t exactly set the world alight either.
If you regularly use sites like Betway you might be tempted to check out how likely it is that Emegha ends next season as Chelsea’s top scorer, because he’s certainly making waves with Strasbourg in Ligue 1 this season.
Nicolas Jackson in action for Bayern (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
The 22-year-old Netherlands international has more goals than either Pedro or Delap already this season, with seven in ten games in all competitions.
By contrast, Pedro has four and Delap has one, so a combined total of five. It’s early days for them with CFC, but if they carry on like this there seems little reason for the club to keep them around.
Chelsea’s links with Strasbourg
Chelsea have done well to already agree a deal to sign Emegha, who has shone for fellow BlueCo club Strasbourg.
This certainly seems like an arrangement that’s working well for the west London giants, as it allows them to get a look at young players at another club first before committing to bringing them to Chelsea.
Emegha is one of the most exciting talents there at the moment, but there are others worth keeping an eye on too, such as Julio Enciso.
Meanwhile, manager Liam Rosenior is also doing a hugely impressive job with the French side, so might well be future Chelsea manager material if he can carry on like this.
While Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali have had a bit of stick for their approach since taking over Chelsea, this multi-club model looks really shrewd and one imagines more and more other teams are going to follow it before long.
Liverpool are understood to have agreed personal terms with Antoine Semenyo whilst also matching Manchester City’s offer to the Bournemouth forward.
I can reveal exclusively for CaughtOffside that the Reds have reached an agreement with Semenyo over a move for January, with the Ghana international now set to decide between a move to Anfield or the Etihad Stadium.
Semenyo had already agreed terms with Man City, but it seems Liverpool have now matched their offer to the player, so it’s currently down to his personal preference as he decides his future for January.
It looks likely that Semenyo will be on his way out of Bournemouth, with both these clubs advancing, though it’s still required that any interested parties meet his £65m release clause.
Antoine Semenyo’s release clause details as Liverpool & Man City chase transfer
Antoine Semenyo in action for Bournemouth against Chelsea (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
According to my information from top sources, Semenyo can leave Bournemouth for £65m, but that clause expires before the 10th of January and is no longer valid for the rest of the month.
The Cherries have another clause for £5m less but that doesn’t become active until the summer transfer window.
This gives Liverpool and City a bit of a time limit, but it looks like both sides are doing their best to get as much of this agreement done now so as to be in a strong position when the window opens in January.
Who will Semenyo join out of Liverpool or City?
Semenyo is yet to make a final decision on his future, with both Liverpool and City satisfying his demands with their respective contract offers.
The 25-year-old will not rush into a decision and it will be interesting to see who he ends up going for, while he might also wait and see if other clubs come in for him.
There have been suggestions of LFC being frontrunners for Semenyo, but there are many factors which could still come into play to impact this outcome, such as the future of manager Arne Slot and whether or not Mohamed Salah is sold or not.
A major transfer storm could be brewing in English football, with Manchester United reportedly preparing a sensational move for Arsenal prodigy Ethan Nwaneri.
According to a trusted source on X, the 18-year-old midfielder, long regarded as one of Arsenal’s brightest academy talents, is said to be growing frustrated over his lack of first-team opportunities, a situation United are eager to exploit.
Reports emerging from London suggest that Arsenal may be forced to sell one of their most valuable young players to comply with Premier League financial regulations ahead of next summer.
The Gunners have spent heavily in recent transfer windows, securing big-money signings like Eberechi Eze, Viktor Gyokeres, Noni Madueke and others.
Arsenal could be forced to sell an important player
They are now under pressure to balance the books before pursuing further top-tier reinforcements.
At Old Trafford, manager Rúben Amorim is believed to be a huge admirer of Nwaneri’s potential.
Sources close to the Portuguese tactician say he views the teenager as the ideal creative midfielder to build around for the future, comparing his technical intelligence to that of Phil Foden at Manchester City.
Man United have been monitoring Nwaneri for several months and are reportedly ready to make a formal approach if Arsenal show any willingness to negotiate.
Ethan Nwaneri celebrates with Myles Lewis-Skelly and Mikel Merino (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
If Nwaneri were to make the switch to Old Trafford, it would instantly rank among the most controversial transfers in Premier League history, potentially the biggest direct move between the two clubs since Robin van Persie’s shock transfer in 2012.
Arsenal fans, who have followed Nwaneri’s rise through the Hale End academy since he joined at the age of nine, would be furious at the idea of losing one of their most gifted prospects to a historic rival.
Insiders claim that Nwaneri is “fed up” with his stalled progress and is open to reassessing his future if assurances over playing time aren’t provided soon.
The tension at Liverpool has reached boiling point as manager Arne Slot prepares to hold an emergency face-to-face meeting with star forward Mohamed Salah today, according to a trusted source on X.
The urgent summit comes amid escalating fallout between the Dutch manager and the Egyptian superstar, whose relationship has deteriorated following a public outburst and a series of controversial decisions by the Reds management.
Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes is also expected to be present during the meeting, which has been described internally as “make or break” for Salah’s short-term future at Anfield.
Can Salah return to the Liverpool squad?
The discussion will determine whether the 33-year-old will be reinstated into the squad for Saturday’s clash against Brighton & Hove Albion, a fixture that could prove pivotal for both the player and manager.
The omission came just days after the Egyptian publicly criticised the club and Slot’s management, claiming he had been “thrown under the bus” following a string of substitute appearances.
Slot remains deeply frustrated with Salah’s recent attitude but is still open to reconciliation, provided the forward shows genuine remorse during the meeting.
Slot is understood to have set strict conditions for Salah’s return, making it clear that only a public or private apology would allow the Egyptian to be reintegrated into the first-team setup.
Saturday’s home game against Brighton carries added significance, not only because of Salah’s uncertain involvement but also because it could mark a turning point in the club’s turbulent season.
The Dutchman’s relationship with both the squad and the fanbase has been under intense scrutiny, with many questioning his handling of one of Liverpool’s greatest players ever.
Manchester United are keeping a close eye on Austrian centre-back David Affengruber, who has impressed this season with his performances for Elche in La Liga.
Affengruber has been one of the standout defenders in Spain this season. Man United scouts have attended multiple Elche fixtures, and internal reports on the Austrian’s performances have been “highly positive”.
Elche, aware of the growing interest from Europe’s top clubs, have moved quickly to protect their asset. The La Liga side have set a price tag of around €30 million in hopes of deterring a January move.
Midfield addition remains the priority for Man United
While Affengruber is viewed as a long-term investment, United are not expected to prioritise a move for the defender in the upcoming window, given their more pressing need for midfield reinforcement.
The Red Devils’ recruitment team has placed midfield reconstruction at the top of the club’s transfer agenda.
Sources indicate that Casemiro’s declining form and fitness issues, coupled with his age and potential exit at the end of the season, have accelerated plans to bring in younger, more dynamic options.
Angelo Stiller of Stuttgart (Photo by Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images)
Man United’s shortlist includes Angelo Stiller of VfB Stuttgart, Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest, and João Gomes from Wolves.
All three have been identified as players capable of fitting into Amorim’s high-energy pressing system.
The club’s hierarchy believes that solidifying the midfield will not only improve defensive stability but also provide the creativity and energy needed to support the forward line.
Man United’s January business will likely revolve around midfield upgrades, but the club continues to build an extensive network of young defensive targets for the summer.
Tension is reportedly rising behind the scenes at Chelsea, with several figures within the club said to be “absolutely losing their minds” over manager Enzo Maresca’s tactical inconsistencies.
According to a trusted source on X, the frustration stems from a growing disconnect between what the team practices during the week and how they perform on match days, a situation that’s left players, coaches, and staff increasingly bewildered.
BREAKING CHELSEA BOMBSHELL from Chelsea insider
Sources deep inside Stamford Bridge are ABSOLUTELY LOSING THEIR MINDS over Enzo Maresca’s tactics!
They drill sexy tiki-taka possession ALL WEEK on the training pitch, but come match day it’s straight-up end to end… pic.twitter.com/DaLQOenvYU
Insiders reveal that Chelsea spend most of their training sessions drilling a possession-based, ‘sexy tiki-taka’ system, mirroring the fluid, patient style that Maresca previously honed during his time at Leicester City and under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.
Chelsea are struggling to find identity on the pitch
Yet, come match day, the tactical identity seems to vanish. Instead of the controlled, passing-heavy dominance Maresca demands, the team ends up playing end-to-end, frantic football, lacking structure and composure.
That tactical confusion came to a head this week as Chelsea suffered a 2-1 defeat to Atalanta in the Champions League, a result that extends their winless streak to four matches across all competitions.
The performance, marked by defensive lapses and a lack of cohesion in attack, left many inside the club questioning whether the manager’s methods are translating effectively to the players.
Chelsea’s recent form has been alarming. Since their 3-0 triumph over Barcelona in Europe, a result that briefly lifted optimism around Maresca’s project, the Blues have drawn against Arsenal, lost to Leeds United, shared points with Bournemouth, and now fallen to Atalanta.
Several players reportedly feel confused by the constant tactical adjustments, particularly in transitions, where they are unsure whether to press high or drop deep.
After assembling one of the most expensive squads in Europe, patience among Chelsea’s hierarchy is beginning to wear thin.
The Premier League averaged attendances of 40,459 per game throughout the 2024/25 season. Clubs across the country averaged 98.8 per cent capacity, showing sustained interest throughout England. Larger teams continued to bring in the highest attendance figures, and smaller venues continued to face attendance constraints. Official Premier League data confirms the continued interest in live matches in the top tier of English football.
The Premier League features some of the highest attendance averages in the sport across Europe. As reported in the Premier League annual report, the 2024/25 season saw average game attendance of 40,459, with stadiums at 98.8 per cent capacity. This data indicates fan interest and engagement are more than ever, despite increasing ticket prices and growing competition from streaming and broadcast alternatives.
Fans Continue to Pack Stadiums Across England
Fans across England managed to pack out every single stadium across the whole country every single match day throughout the season. The Premier League reported that for the entire season, nearly 100 per cent of seating within the stadium was sold, with many teams surpassing 99 per cent full. This represents the determination and devotion fans have to watch their teams play live, even with adverse socioeconomic conditions.
This attendance consistency has implications beyond the terraces. High spectator numbers sustain the energy in stadiums and support the commercial viability of clubs across the league. Even as fans may seek online betting options or explore online gaming platforms, including looking for legit casinos, the act of attending a match remains a central aspect of engagement with the sport.
Online platforms provide an alternative way to follow the game and engage with odds, but they have not reduced demand for live football experiences.
Top Clubs Lead the Way in Attendance Figures
Football clubs with the biggest stadiums once again topped the charts for attendance. Teams with the largest fan bases and massive stadiums of over 60,000 seats regularly sell out their stadiums.
The biggest stadiums were able to sell out for every game all season, especially for games of high importance and historical rivalries. Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Chelsea consistently showed the biggest attendance over the football season.
Attendance at football matches and events hosted by these clubs shows support from all over the world, not just from the UK. The attendance at football matches shows the importance of a stadium’s size, along with a club’s status, in controlling a stadium’s atmosphere. As a result of high attendance, a club’s season record of attendance at matches shows a correlation with the stadium’s size.
Smaller Grounds Struggle to Keep Up with High Demand
Football clubs with the smallest stadiums ran into different challenges during the season. Smaller clubs have faced a different set of challenges, with their stadiums having smaller capacities. Brentford, Bournemouth, and Nottingham Forest often played in front of a full stadium, despite their smaller stadiums.
These clubs, however, faced a different set of challenges, as attendance reports were often at 95-100%. Smaller clubs with smaller stadiums are often placed lower in the attendance standings.
Smaller stadiums don’t capture the level of support that Premier League teams attract. The fans that do go to the smaller stadiums create a great atmosphere, but the fans that go to the Premier League games don’t get to go to the smaller hosted games. The popularity of the smaller stadiums contrasts with the popularity of the game of football, and with the stadiums that size, it shows the great limitations on how football can be hosted.
The popularity of the Premier League shows that it continues to be Europe’s most attended league. The football league was able to obtain a great number of fans in attendance due to the size of the stadiums and how fully booked they were last season. During the season of 2024/25, total attendance was shown to be 15.4 million. During the season, the stadiums averaged 98% booked, indicating that there were very few open seats.
Live football in England is a great attraction, and with the league being streamed, it shows how in demand it is. Probably for the reason that the defined atmospheres of a football match cannot be replicated through a stream. The high attendance shows how visible the league is to the public, as more and more big clubs are attracting fans from England.
Record Crowds Highlight Premier League’s Global Popularity
High attendance numbers are an indicator of continued strong fan engagement. Large crowds create a positive game day atmosphere for clubs, and the league enjoys a reputation as the most popular league (in terms of attendance).
For smaller clubs, almost all home matches and many away matches, creating a near-fully seated attendance helps ensure financial viability and broaden the perception of support for the club, even outside of the largest market.
Moving forward, the continued attendance of fans will signal to all stakeholders the continued health of the league. The Premier League’s reputation and ability to consistently fill stadiums show that for fans, attending matches is a valuable, integral part of their experience. Even with the growing popularity of digital football alternatives, the large number of fans attending matches speaks to the continued strong demand for live football.
The engagement will shape clubs and the league’s future decisions on scheduling, stadium capacity and construction, as well as ticket prices.
Manchester United and AS Roma are continuing to hold regular discussions over the future of Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee, according to Sky Sport Italia, as reported by Football Italia.
The 24-year-old striker, who has attracted considerable interest across Europe, could be heading out of Old Trafford with interest increasing in his services due to his uncertain future at the Premier League giants.
Zirkzee, currently out of favour at Old Trafford, has struggled for consistent minutes under Rúben Amorim this season, leading to growing speculation about a potential move away.
Roma lead race to sign Man United striker
While West Ham United and several Serie A clubs have expressed interest, reports suggest that Roma have taken the lead in negotiations, though the structure of the deal remains a key point of contention.
The Red Devils are open to letting Zirkzee go, having concluded that he does not fit Amorim’s tactical setup.
Roma, however, are pushing for a loan agreement with a conditional option to buy. Their approach is shaped by financial constraints under UEFA’s Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, as well as their cautious stance on committing to a full transfer mid-season.
Zirkzee joined Man United amid much fanfare, having enjoyed a prolific spell at Bologna before making the move to England.
Joshua Zirkzee of Man United (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
Yet despite his technical flair and link-up play, he has failed to cement a regular starting role under Amorim.
The Dutchman’s versatility, capable of operating as a false nine or supporting striker, has drawn admiration from Serie A managers, particularly Roma boss Gian Piero Gasperini, who reportedly views him as an ideal fit for his tactical system.
The club’s American ownership is eager to back Gasperini in the January window but must do so strategically to avoid breaching spending limits.
Napoli have identified Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo as their top transfer priority for the January window, according to La Repubblica.
The Italian champions are looking to strengthen their midfield as injuries continue to hinder their campaign, and sporting director Giovanni Manna has reportedly made the 20-year-old England international his “pole position” target.
With Napoli operating under financial constraints, their recruitment strategy for the winter market will focus primarily on loan signings, making Mainoo an ideal target.
The structure of such a deal is said to appeal to all parties. Napoli would secure an energetic, ball-progressing midfielder to bolster Antonio Conte’s system, while Mainoo would gain valuable first team experience in a league renowned for its tactical rigor.
Antonio Conte wants Man United midfielder
Conte is reportedly a major driving force behind the pursuit. The Italian manager has been impressed by Mainoo’s composure, versatility, and pressing ability, traits that fit seamlessly into his preferred high-intensity setup.
A loan deal would also allow Man United to retain control over Mainoo’s long-term future, while ensuring he continues to develop in a competitive environment.
United boss Rúben Amorim, however, has been reluctant to grant him consistent minutes this season, which has reportedly frustrated the player and his representatives.
Mainoo has already approved the potential move, encouraged by the chance to reunite with former teammate Scott McTominay and ex-Man United star Romelu Lukaku, both of whom have enjoyed a resurgence under Conte in Italy.
Kobbie Mainoo in the pre-match warm-up for Man United (Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
While United are open to allowing Mainoo to leave temporarily, they remain cautious about letting another young midfielder depart given the team’s ongoing struggles in central areas.
Amorim has publicly stated that squad depth is “a priority concern,” though club sources admit a short-term loan could help balance development needs and squad management.
With Napoli pushing to wrap up the deal swiftly, attention now turns to whether Man United will sanction the move.
If completed, the move could mark a pivotal moment in Mainoo’s development, a chance to test himself in Serie A under one of Europe’s most demanding managers, and potentially return to Old Trafford next summer a more complete, battle-hardened player.
Manchester City are preparing a high-profile summer move for Newcastle United full-back Tino Livramento, according to TEAMtalk.
Pep Guardiola is reportedly a huge admirer of the 23-year-old, who he views as a “complete modern defender” capable of seamlessly fitting into City’s tactical blueprint, particularly in the inverted full-back role that has become a hallmark of the club’s play under the Catalan boss.
Guardiola has long been searching for a long-term successor to Kyle Walker.
Livramento’s technical quality, athleticism, and tactical intelligence make him an ideal candidate.
Newcastle United defender has impressed Man City
The Newcastle defender is comfortable operating on both flanks, but it is his ability to drift into midfield and contribute to build-up play that reportedly excites Guardiola the most.
City’s scouting team has been monitoring Livramento since his Southampton days, when he emerged as one of the Premier League’s most promising young defenders.
Guardiola is said to be pushing internally for City to “act fast” before other European clubs enter the race.
Crucially, the proposed deal could also include goalkeeper James Trafford, who faces an uncertain future at the Etihad Stadium due to lack of playing time.
City could offer James Trafford to sweeten the deal
Tino Livramento of Newcastle United (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
The inclusion of Trafford in a player-plus-cash exchange is seen as a strategic move to sweeten the deal, with Newcastle known to be exploring goalkeeping reinforcements.
TEAMtalk adds that City’s recruitment team views Livramento as a long-term investment who could play a vital role well into the next decade.
Having signed Livramento from Southampton in 2023 for around £35 million, the Magpies would stand to make a significant profit if they agree to the transfer.
For Man City, the move would be another clear signal of their intent to evolve and future-proof the squad.
Liverpool remain committed to keeping Mohamed Salah at Anfield until the end of his contract, despite the growing speculation surrounding his future and his surprise omission from the Champions League squad to face Inter Milan on Tuesday night.
The 33-year-old forward, who has been at the heart of Liverpool’s success for nearly a decade, has found himself in an uncharacteristic position, on the fringes of the team during one of the club’s most turbulent spells in recent years.
Liverpool have no intention of selling Mohamed Salah
However, according to The Athletic, the Premier League giants have no intention of selling Salah right now and they plan to keep him till the duration of his contract at the club.
Despite the off-field drama, Liverpool’s stance remains firm. Fenway Sports Group (FSG) have no intention of selling Salah in January and are determined for him to see out his current contract, which runs until 2027.
The hierarchy reportedly views Salah as integral to maintaining the club’s global image and commercial strength, even as the Egyptian forward’s on-field role has become increasingly complicated under Slot.
Salah’s omission follows a series of public and private disagreements with Slot, culminating in the Egyptian’s explosive post-match interview after the 3-3 draw against Leeds United, where he accused unnamed figures at the club of having “thrown him under the bus.”
Mohamed Salah of Liverpool applauds the fans (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)
Nevertheless, insiders claim that Liverpool’s leadership remains united behind Slot, while also determined to handle the Salah situation with diplomacy to avoid destabilising the dressing room further.
The continued standoff has reignited interest from the Saudi Pro League, particularly from Al-Hilal, who are interested in a move for the Egyptian attacker.
Whether this standoff can be resolved remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Liverpool are not ready to let their most iconic player of the modern era leave quietly.
Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah continues to dominate headlines amid mounting speculation over his future at Anfield.
According to talkSPORT, Al-Hilal, NEOM FC, and Al-Qadsiah have all expressed strong interest in signing the Egyptian winger, who could be approaching the final stages of his glittering Liverpool career.
While Saudi Arabian clubs are eager to bring Salah to the Saudi Pro League, sources close to Anfield insist Liverpool still want the 33-year-old to see out his contract, which runs until 2027.
However, the situation has become increasingly uncertain following Salah’s recent comments suggesting he might be preparing to say his “goodbyes” to the Anfield crowd when Liverpool host Brighton this weekend.
Does Mo Salah have a future at Liverpool?
Salah’s omission from the Champions League squad to face Inter Milan has only intensified rumours about his immediate future.
Club insiders, however, describe the decision as a “pragmatic, short-term measure” in response to his public criticism of manager Arne Slot following the recent 3–3 draw against Leeds United.
Liverpool’s hierarchy, including sporting director Richard Hughes and the ownership group Fenway Sports Group (FSG), are said to be divided over how to handle the fallout.
Some believe reintegrating Salah quickly would stabilise the squad, while others think further disciplinary action could set a precedent for authority under Slot.
After the Inter clash, high-level talks are reportedly scheduled between the player, Slot, and the club’s board to determine whether Salah will feature in the Brighton fixture, potentially his last appearance before departing for AFCON with Egypt.
Backed by unprecedented financial resources, the Riyadh club view Salah as the marquee addition needed to strengthen their international profile.
Meanwhile, NEOM FC, a newly emerging club aligned with the Saudi Vision 2030 project, are said to hold “concrete interest” in the Egyptian captain.
Their project is centered around building a futuristic sports brand, and Salah, one of the most recognised Arab athletes in the world, fits that vision perfectly.
Saudi clubs want Salah to be the face of their project
Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah during a training session (Photo by Tim Markland/PA Images via Getty Images)
Another serious contender, Al-Qadsiah, could pose an unexpected threat. Owned by Aramco, the club is rapidly growing into a major force in Saudi football and is capable of self-funding a megadeal without direct Ministry of Sport backing.
Liverpool remain publicly committed to keeping Salah until the end of his deal, but privately, the club may be open to negotiations if a nine-figure offer arrives.
Salah’s next steps could define both his legacy and Liverpool’s future. If he plays against Brighton, it may serve as a symbolic farewell before his departure to the Africa Cup of Nations, and possibly beyond.
Liverpool’s ongoing turmoil took a surprising turn on Tuesday night when traveling supporters at the San Siro broke into chants of support for under-pressure manager Arne Slot during the club’s Champions League clash against Inter Milan.
Ian Doyle reported on X that the fans of the Premier League side chanted Slot’s name during the early stages of the match against Inter at San Siro.
Ten minutes in and the away end just briefly broke into a chant for Arne Slot before chanting about #LFC
The show of loyalty came just ten minutes into the match, with the away end briefly erupting into a chorus of Slot’s chant before shifting to more traditional Liverpool songs, a rare public show of unity for a manager currently battling intense scrutiny and internal tension.
Liverpool fans side with manager Arne Slot
The moment was significant not just for its timing, but for what it symbolised.
With rising friction between Slot and star forward Mohamed Salah, fans’ vocal backing of the Dutchman sent a clear message about where much of the Anfield faithful stand amid the club’s current crisis.
The Egyptian superstar was left out of the Champions League squad for the Inter fixture, sparking headlines worldwide and deepening questions about the stability of the dressing room.
However, the reaction from the traveling Reds suggests that many supporters still believe in the manager’s vision.
Arne Slot, Manager of Liverpool (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
The chants echoed around the away section early in the first half, and though brief, they carried a clear undertone of defiance, a message that the fans won’t abandon Slot in his hour of need.
The fans went back to Liverpool happy as Slot’s side won the match 1-0 thanks to a late penalty from Dominik Szoboszlai.
The Liverpool talisman openly criticised the club’s decision-making, claiming he had been “thrown under the bus,” after being benched in recent fixtures.
Salah’s omission from such a crucial European fixture, one that could shape Liverpool’s season, is seen by many as the clearest sign yet that the relationship between player and manager has reached a breaking point.
Argentine striker Joaquín Panichelli has become one of the most sought-after young talents in Europe, with several elite clubs vying for his signature ahead of the January transfer window.
The 23-year-old has taken Ligue 1 by storm this season, emerging as a breakout star for RC Strasbourg and now finds himself firmly on the radar of Chelsea, who are leading the chase thanks to their close ownership ties with the French club, sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.
His performances have not only established him as Strasbourg’s key man but also caught the attention of Europe’s biggest sides, from Barcelona and Atletico Madrid to Manchester United and Aston Villa.
Chelsea lead race to sign Ligue 1 attacker
Given that both Strasbourg and Chelsea operate under the BlueCo umbrella, a potential move to Stamford Bridge is seen internally as a natural progression in Panichelli’s career.
Chelsea’s attacking department remains a work in progress, and Panichelli’s arrival would align with the club’s strategy of investing in high-upside, young talents capable of growing within Maresca’s system.
Strasbourg president Marc Keller has previously admitted that the club’s partnership with Chelsea involves an expectation of talent sharing between the two sides.
Manchester United are reportedly preparing a sensational raid on rivals Arsenal for teenage prodigy Ethan Nwaneri.
In a development that echoes the bitter departure of Robin van Persie over a decade ago, reports suggest the Gunners may be forced to sacrifice one of their brightest talents to comply with financial regulations, with Man United ready to pounce.
Manchester United eyeing shock move for Arsenal’s Ethan Nwaneri
According to explosive claims from a trusted source on X, Manchester United have identified Ethan Nwaneri as a primary target for the upcoming transfer window.
As per him, Arsenal are under significant pressure to sell a valuable asset to fund future targets and remain compliant with Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
He outlines a potential domino effect at Old Trafford to facilitate the move. In a twist that will stun the United faithful, fan-favorite Kobbie Mainoo could reportedly be “sold or loaned” if the “unthinkable” Nwaneri deal proceeds.
Current Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is said to be a “big admirer” of the 18-year-old midfielder and is keen to bring him to the Theatre of Dreams. The situation is reportedly compounded by the player’s own dissatisfaction.
Despite his high potential, sources claim Nwaneri is “fed up” and feels his “career has stalled hard” due to a lack of game time in North London.
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We understand @Arsenal need to sell a valuable player to fund future targets due to financial rules.
LONDON COLNEY, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 09: Ethan Nwaneri of Arsenal during a training session at Sobha Realty Training Centre on December 09, 2025 in London Colney, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
This is not the first time Nwaneri’s future has been the subject of intense speculation. Chelsea have long held an interest in the Hale End graduate.
However, Arsenal managed to fend off the approach at the time. In August 2025, the club announced that Nwaneri had committed his future to the Gunners, signing a new long-term contract that was intended to keep him at the Emirates until 2030.
That the player is now reportedly unsettled just months after signing that deal adds a layer of shock to these emerging links with Manchester United.
Recent transfers between Manchester United and Arsenal
If the transfer materialises, it would undoubtedly be the most controversial switch between the two clubs since Robin van Persie traded the Emirates for Old Trafford in 2012.
That move, which saw the Dutchman fire United to their 20th league title, remains a sore point for Arsenal supporters.
While direct transfers between the two English giants have been rare, the pathway is not entirely closed.
Over the last decade, several high-profile names have crossed the divide:
Ayden Heaven (Arsenal to Man United – 2024/25): The young defender made a low-profile switch from Arsenal’s U21s to Manchester United just last season.
Alexis Sanchez (Arsenal to Man United – Jan 2018): The Chilean forward moved to United in a swap deal, though his time in Manchester famously failed to live up to the hype.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan (Man United to Arsenal – Jan 2018): The Armenian midfielder went the other way as part of the Sanchez deal, joining Arsenal.
Danny Welbeck (Man United to Arsenal – 2014): Though slightly over a decade ago, the Manchester-born striker’s move to Arsenal on deadline day remains one of the more significant modern transfers between the rivals.
Liverpool picked up a 1-0 win over Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League earlier tonight.
The Reds were under immense pressure heading into the game, and Arne Slot will be delighted with a much-needed victory on their travels. The win over Inter Milan will certainly give Liverpool a confidence boost for the upcoming matches.
Liverpool are going through a rough patch right now, and they needed a win to lift the spirits around the club. Apart from their disappointing form, Mohamed Salah’s latest bombshell interview has put the team and the manager under a lot of unnecessary pressure.
The Egyptian has been dropped in recent matches, and he revealed to the media after the draw against Leeds United at the weekend that his relationship with the manager has broken down, and he is being forced out of the club. There have been strong rumours since then that Egyptian could be sold in January. Despite all the noise, Liverpool managed to put on a professional performance against the Italian outfit, and they will be delighted with the result.
Ryan Gravenberch did well
There were a number of impressive performances on the pitch for Liverpool, and Ryan Gravenberch was chosen as the man of the match. However, former Liverpool defender Stephen Warnock believes that Curtis Jones and Dominik Szoboszlai were far more deserving candidates.
He said on BBC: “I’m just looking down at Ryan Gravenberch who was the man of the match. I think you could have given that to him or Curtis Jones and Dominik were the outstanding performers.”
Both players worked hard and produced an impressive display in the middle of the park. The Hungarian International scored the winning goal of the game in the closing stages from the penalty spot. He has been in spectacular form this season, and Szoboszlai is undoubtedly the best player for Liverpool this season.
Real Madrid are interested in appointing Jurgen Klopp as their next manager.
Xabi Alonso has not been able to live up to the expectations, and the Spanish outfit are already looking for alternatives. It will be interesting to see if they decide to show him the door in the coming weeks.
Xabi Alonso to be replaced by Jurgen Klopp?
Alonso is a talented young manager with a bright future, and Real Madrid need to be patient with him. They should give him at least until the end of the season to showcase his true qualities.
Meanwhile, a report from Fichajes claims that Klopp would be open to taking over at Real Madrid, but he has made his conditions very clear to the Spanish club. He wants complete control of transfers, and he is also seeking a major overhaul at the end of the season.
It will be interesting to see if Real Madrid are prepared to give him that kind of control in order to bring him to the club. He is a generational manager who has proven himself in Germany and England. There is no doubt that he could transform Real Madrid and take them to the top of European football.
It remains to be seen what he decides over the next few months. For now, it seems unlikely that Real Madrid will part ways with Alonso. Despite the mixed start to the season, the club needs to demonstrate their faith in him and hold out until the end of the season.
Yan Diomande has been linked with a move away from RB Leipzig in recent months.
According to a report from Fichajes, Liverpool and Chelsea are interested in the player, and he’s likely to cost around €80-100 million.
Yan Diomande is in demand
However, they are not the only two Premier League clubs interested in the player. They will face competition from Arsenal and Manchester City as well. Arsenal, in particular, have made him their priority target for the upcoming summer transfer window. It will be interesting to see if the Gunners follow up on their interest with an official proposal to get the deal done.
It is no secret that they need more quality on the flanks. Diomande is a versatile winger who is capable of operating anywhere across the front three. He could develop into a key player for Arsenal with the right guidance. The opportunity to join the north London club will be quite exciting for him. Arsenal are fighting for major trophies, and he will be able to compete at the highest level with them.
Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig in action. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)
The 19-year-old has the quality to improve all three teams, and he could develop into a future asset for them. It will be interesting to see which of the three clubs can get the deal done. The player will want to compete at the highest level, and joining some of the biggest clubs in the Premier League will be quite exciting for him.
Newcastle United will take on Bayer Leverkusen in the UEFA Champions League during midweek, and they could hand Sam Alabi a call-up.
The 16-year-old was part of the matchday squad against Marseille as well, and he could be a part of the Newcastle travelling squad again. As per Newcastle World, Alabi was pictured during Monday’s training session with Newcastle, and it remains to be seen whether he is handed another opportunity here.
Sam Alabi could gain valuable experience
These are valuable experiences for him with the first team, and they will only help him improve, as Alabi is highly rated at the club. Newcastle will hope that he can develop into an important player for the club in future.
He needs first-team opportunities and more exposure in order to develop further. The talented young central midfielder joined Newcastle in the summer of 2023, and he is highly rated at the youth level. He has captained England at U17 level, and he will look to fulfil his potential with Newcastle in the future.
The young midfielder is clearly not ready to play for the Premier League club yet, but travelling with them in European fixtures will certainly give him valuable experience. It will be interesting to see if he can work hard in training and force his way into the first-team plans next season. There is no doubt that he is a promising talent, but he will need more experience in order to do well at the highest level.
Newcastle are looking to build a team for the future, and they need to groom the likes of Alabi carefully. The young midfielder will not only add more quality to the squad in future, but he could also end up saving millions for Newcastle in the transfer market.
Crystal Palace are interested in signing the UCD midfielder Adam Brennan.
According to a report from Football Insider, they will face competition from Birmingham, Hull City, and Wrexham. The 18-year-old has done quite well in the First Division of Irish football with UCD, and his performances have attracted the attention of multiple clubs.
Adam Brennan has done well
Brennan has nine goals and four assists to his name this season. He could prove to be a quality long-term acquisition for Crystal Palace.
The 18-year-old is a talented player with a bright future, and a move to the Premier League could be an exciting opportunity for him. Crystal Palace could groom him into an important first-team player in the near future. They have done well to nurture young players in recent years, and Brennan will certainly be attracted to the idea of joining them. They are a big club and are competing in European football. They have managed to win the FA Cup and the Community Shield in recent months as well.
It is no surprise that they are keen on the 18-year-old. Brennan could develop into an important player for them with the right guidance, and the move could look like a masterstroke in the long term.
Meanwhile, the opportunity to play in the Premier League will be hard to turn down for the talented young midfielder. It would be a huge step up in his career, and regular football in England could accelerate his development and bring out the best in him.
It will be interesting to see if Crystal Palace follow up on their interest with an official proposal to get the deal done. They have the resources to sign the player, and they should look to wrap up the move quickly.
Barcelona attacker Roony Bardghji has been linked with a move away from the club during the January window.
The Swedish international has struggled for regular opportunities at the Spanish club, and he needs a fresh start. According to a report via Football España, Leeds United are interested in signing the talented young attacker. They have already opened talks with the Spanish champions regarding a deal for the Sweden international.
Leeds to sign Roony Bardghji?
Bardghji is not a key player for them, and they could be open to letting him leave next month. Barcelona are prepared to send the player out on loan. It remains to be seen whether all parties can come to an agreement.
Leeds need more quality and depth in the attacking unit, and the Swedish international could be a useful acquisition for them. He is likely to get ample opportunities at the English club, and that could help him improve further and fulfil his potential. It remains to be seen whether he can adapt to the Premier League quickly and make an immediate impact.
Roony Bardghji in action. (Photo by Liselotte Sabroe / Ritzau Scanpix / AFP)
Sending the player out on loan would make a lot of sense for the Spanish club as well. If he manages to impress in the Premier League, they might be able to sell him for a substantial amount of money at the end of the season. It is clear that he does not have a future at the Spanish club, and Barcelona are unlikely to stand in his way of a move.
Meanwhile, Leeds are fighting for survival, and they need to improve the team in January. Apart from a quality wide player, they should invest in a reliable striker as well.
West Ham United defender Max Kilman has been linked with a move away from the club in recent weeks.
Crystal Palace have been linked with the player, and it appears that West Ham are prepared to sanction his departure. They paid around £40 million to sign the player from Wolves, but he has not been able to live up to the expectations.
West Ham could sell Max Kilman
According to a report from Claret and Hugh, West Ham would sell the player if an offer of £25 million is presented. It will be interesting to see if any club is willing to come forward with an offer for him in January.
Kilman has previously shown his quality in the Premier League with Wolves, and there is no doubt that he has the quality to compete at the highest level. He has not been able to adapt at West Ham so far, and perhaps a fresh start would be ideal for him.
Max Kilman of West Ham United applauds the fans after the team’s defeat. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
Crystal Palace need more quality and depth in the defensive unit, and it will be interesting to see if they are willing to make a move for the West Ham player. Signing him for a reasonable amount of money would be good business for the Eagles, who are all set to lose Marc Guehi in the coming months. He will be out of contract soon. They need to replace their captain, and Kilman could be ideal for them.
Apart from his defensive quality, his leadership skills were quite valuable at Wolves, and he could be the ideal replacement for the England international. It remains to be seen how the situation develops. The defender could prove to be a superb acquisition for £25 million.
The football world has rallied behind Mohamed Salah in a powerful show of solidarity, with global icons Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland leading the support after the Egyptian superstar was dramatically excluded from Liverpool’s Champions League squad.
Salah, 33, was dropped from Arne Slot’s travelling squad for the clash with Inter Milan as punishment for his explosive post-match interview, where he claimed he was being “thrown under the bus” by the club.
The controversy escalated further when Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher launched a fierce personal attack on Monday Night Football, calling Salah’s actions a “disgrace” and accusing him of undermining the club among more things.
Salah receives support from footballers on social media
Salah broke his silence on Tuesday with a cryptic social media post. The image, shared without a caption, showed the forward training alone in the gym at Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre while his teammates prepared in Italy.
While pundits like Carragher took aim, Salah’s peers rallied around him. The post was quickly “liked” by Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappe and Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, a significant gesture from two of the game’s biggest rivals.
Mo Salah has the streets. This is the time that all footballers should come together and show support for one of their own. pic.twitter.com/K7b9gT9Q4j
The support from within the Liverpool dressing room was equally telling. Despite the reported tensions with management, current teammates including Alisson Becker, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Andy Robertson liked his post.
Ex-teammates including Trent Alexander-Arnold, Harvey Elliott, and Jarell Quansah also liked the post, signaling that they remain firmly in Salah’s corner.
Former captain Jordan Henderson and Chelsea legend John Terry both commented with heart emojis, publicly backing the winger.
However, the most vocal support came from Salah’s close friend and former teammate, Dejan Lovren.
The Croatian defender not only commented, “The only way to fight injustice is to fight with all your strength,” but also clashed with critics in the comments section.
When a fan questioned Salah’s loyalty, Lovren fired back, telling them they had “no clue what is going on behind closed doors” and to “stay in your territory.”
As tension between Salah and Liverpool continues to grow, support from football’s elite makes it clear that while Salah may be isolated within the club, he is far from isolated in the game.
Three Saudi clubs eyeing move for Salah as January sale now likely
The relationship between the club and Salah has broken and the player could be sold in January.
Many believe this was the plan from the start, with Hughes and Edwards accused of stabbing Salah in the back.
Al-Hilal still have Salah high on their list after exploring a deal before the Club World Cup, while NEOM FC, led by Christophe Galtier, are prepared to launch a formal bid if Salah becomes available at the right price.
Al-Qadsiah may be the most ambitious contender. Backed by Aramco, they possess unmatched financial independence and are positioning themselves as a rising powerhouse in the Saudi Pro League.
If Salah is sold in January, it would mark one of the saddest and most controversial endings to the career of a true Liverpool legend.
Antoine Semenyo has been linked with a move away from Bournemouth in recent weeks.
The 25-year-old could be on the move during the January transfer window, and several clubs are keen on him. According to a report from TEAMtalk, Manchester United, Liverpool and Tottenham want to sign the African attacker.
Liverpool boost in Antoine Semenyo race
However, Semenyo has made Liverpool his preferred choice now. The development will come as a huge boost for Liverpool, and it will be interesting to see if they can sign the player. He has a £65 million release clause in his contract, and Liverpool will need to pay up if they want to get the deal done.
The Cherries will not want to lose a key player like him easily, and they will demand that the clause be paid in full.
The 25-year-old is in spectacular form this season (9 goal contributions in 14 league matches), and he could transform Liverpool in the final third. The Premier League champions are struggling right now, and they need more cutting-edge in the final third.
Antoine Semenyo of Bournemouth (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
The Ghana international is capable of operating anywhere across the front three, and he could be the ideal replacement for Mohamed Salah, who has been linked with an exit. The Egyptian recently dropped an interview claiming that his relationship with manager Arne Slot is now broken after he was dropped in recent weeks. There have been rumours that he could be sold in January. The Premier League star could be the ideal replacement for Salah.
Meanwhile, Manchester United and Tottenham need cutting-edge in the final third as well. There is no doubt that the 25-year-old would have been an exceptional acquisition. However, he has clearly chosen Liverpool as his preferred destination. It remains to be seen whether the two clubs decide to move on to other targets.
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