All posts by h716a5.icu

Ruben Amorim has cut a frustrated figure since replacing Erik ten Hag at Manchester United. The Portugal tactician’s candour has worked against him at times, fingers pointed toward negativity when the club needs the opposite.

But Amorim is at least clear in his vision and clear about where the Red Devils need to improve. He’s been clear about his opinion that beating Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final will not rectify the wrongs, and he’s been clear that changes are needed in the transfer market this summer.

United are down, but they aren’t out, retaining a deep-rooted appeal for players to make the move to Old Trafford. INEOS will certainly hope the club’s reputation holds sway as they look to close their first deal of the summer.

Man Utd on the verge of signing new forward

According to Fabrizio Romano, Man United will complete the signing of Matheus Cunha in the coming days, with the Wolverhampton Wanderers forward keen on wrapping up discussions and making the move to Manchester.

Cunha has a £62.5m release clause in his Wolves contract after renewing terms in January, and given that negotiations between United and the Old Gold are at an advanced stage, it seems to be the structure of the payment being the only hold-up.

What Matheus Cunha would bring to Old Trafford

Regarded as “one of the best players in the Premier League this season” by Statman Dave, Cunha may well have been the definitive factor in Wolves’ season, firing away each week to lift his team away from the relegation fodder.

He might find he’s swiftly required as a talisman at Old Trafford next season, for his efforts suggest he’s a far cry ahead of some of Amorim’s existing options.

Alejandro Garnacho is one of United’s brightest sparks, but there’s no question that he’s ebbed and flowed this year, with talks of a transfer to Chelsea or Atletico Madrid in January coming to nought.

Such clubs may return for the £65m-rated talent this summer.

Amorim and Garnacho didn’t get off to a good start, the manager dropping his 20-year-old star in December following application problems in training.

He has evident talent, but given that Cunha is expected to join, why not cash in and start afresh? To be sure, United need quite the renovation.

And when looking at the players’ respective seasons, it’s clear that Cunha is head and shoulders above the Man United man.

Matches (starts)

31 (28)

36 (23)

Goals

15

6

Assists

6

2

Shots (on target)*

3.2 (1.3)

2.3 (0.8)

Big chances missed

2

14

Pass completion

79%

83%

Big chances created

13

4

Dribbles*

1.9

0.7

Ball recoveries*

4.0

3.0

Tackles + interceptions*

1.6

1.2

Duels won*

5.6

2.8

Cunha is far more clinical, not just outscoring Garnacho (and all the rest) but doing so with style, having missed only two big chances all season. Moreover, he’s more creative and more effective, and active in the duel.

Cunha’s defensive statistics surpass Garnacho’s too, and that’s not because of Wolves’ style of play. United are hemmed in near the bottom of the Premier League table with two games left to go, having averaged 53.2% of possession each game, as per FBref.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

The fact is, Amorim needs this kind of player in his mix. The Red Devils need a tenacious and combative forward who will work hard and shoot true, with a flair for the creative, too.

Hailed for his “incredible” performances at Molineux by his former manager Gary O’Neil, signing Cunha, regardless of United’s Europa League fate, would make a firm comment on the club’s ability to withstand adversity and still attract some of the finest players in the Premier League.

Maybe Garnacho and the £90k-per-week Wolves sensation could work in conjunction next year, but if the Argentina prospect needs to be sold to establish room and balance for this new recruit, so be it.

Not just Hojlund: Man Utd must axe one of Ten Hag's best signings in Bilbao

Manchester United fell to yet another defeat last night, losing 1-0 to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

ByEthan Lamb May 17, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur chiefs have been informed that they could sign a high-earning star for below £30 million this summer, with chairman Daniel Levy expected to seek out good-value deals amid the looming threat of a ‘sell to buy’ summer.

Ange Postecoglou preparing for crunch Europa League final

While Spurs face off against Aston Villa in the Premier League this afternoon, all eyes are instead on their looming Europa League final against Man United next week.

Levy personally wants '40 goals a season' striker at Tottenham next season

The Spurs chairman is a particular fan.

ByEmilio Galantini May 15, 2025

The less said about Spurs’ dismal domestic campaign, the better – following a season of record-breaking lows where Ange Postecoglou’s side surpassed the club’s record for most Premier League losses in a single season (20).

Instead, the Europa League represents a major potential saving grace at the end of what could be Postecoglou’s final term in charge.

Son Heung-min

7.05

Pedro Porro

6.98

James Maddison

6.98

Dominic Solanke

6.88

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

David Ornstein is among the media sources to report that Postecoglou is highly likely to leave Tottenham, even if they win the European final in Bilbao on May 21, but sealing the Lilywhites’ first piece of major silverware in 17 years would be a more-than-ideal send-off.

Victory against Man United would also work wonders in terms of attracting Spurs’ top transfer targets, as a place in the Champions League group draw for next season would undoubtedly come as a major pull, even after their struggles domestically.

One of the key items of their agenda, in terms of recruitment, is signing a new striker. Richarlison is expected to be up for sale at Tottenham this summer, and in the event Brazil’s number nine departs N17, Spurs or any new manager would need a replacement for him.

Tottenham are believed to be among the contenders for Ipswich striker Liam Delap, who could leave for just £30 million, thanks to a release clause tied in with their relegation from the Premier League.

Levy is also keen on re-negotiating cheaper terms for Mathys Tel’s permanent deal, according to reports in Germany this week, but it is unclear what the 20-year-old’s long-term role would be in the squad right now.

Tottenham informed they could sign Dusan Vlahovic for under £30 million

Now, as per GiveMeSport, Juventus star Dusan Vlahovic is another centre-forward who could be made available for an affordable transfer fee.

The Serbia international, rumoured to be on around £320,000-per-week in Turin, hasn’t exactly lived up to his “superstar” reputation during the second half of 2024/2025 – scoring just two Serie A goals this calendar year.

With his contract expiring next summer, and no extension in sight, GMS now report Tottenham have been made aware that Vlahovic could be sold this summer.

It is also claimed that, while Juve ideally want around £35 million, the Old Lady may even green-light his sale for just £20 million – largely due to his sub-par form lately and the fact he’s about to enter the final 12 months of his deal.

This could be a major opportunity for Levy, who’s been linked with a move for Vlahovic in past seasons.

The 25-year-old scored 21 Serie A goals during his best season at Fiorentina, and 16 top-flight goals for Juve just last season, so Vlahovic can be a devastating player when at his very best. The trick for Spurs’ potential new manager next season is getting it out of him.

Leeds United have held internal talks to sign a £20m+ striker who Robbie Keane has compared to himself.

Leeds clinch Championship title thanks to late Solomon winner

The Whites won the Championship title on Saturday afternoon in dramatic fashion after a late winner from Manor Solomon gave them a 2-1 victory over Plymouth Argyle.

Wilfried Gnonto cancelled out a Sam Byram own goal which gave the hosts the lead at half time before Solomon netted in stoppage time to give Daniel Farke’s side the trophy.

Both Leeds and Burnley ended up on 100 points for the season, and talking after his late heroics, Solomon said: “I can’t put into words what I’m feeling right now. It’s a dream come true for me to score the winning goal and to take this championship.

“I think throughout this season we showed that we deserve it, we deserve this trophy, we deserve to finish in the first spot and we’re super happy. I’m so glad it happened.”

Solomon has reportedly said yes to a permanent Leeds move, and more attacking reinforcements in the Premier League appear to be on the agenda for Leeds, despite scoring 95 goals in 46 Championship games.

Leeds make advances in move to sign "top-class" 243 career-goal striker

The Whites are in the hunt for attacking reinforcements.

2 BySean Markus Clifford May 3, 2025

Now, a new target has emerged to rival Championship Golden Boot winner Joel Piroe at Elland Road next season.

Leeds chasing move to sign £20m+ Troy Parrott

According to TEAMtalk, Leeds are looking at a move to sign AZ Alkmaar centre-forward Troy Parrott this summer.

The Whites have held internal talks over a potential transfer but have yet to firm up their interest with an enquiry or offer to the Dutch side.

Signed from Tottenham, Parrott has been starring for AZ, scoring 20 goals in 2024/25, and an offer of up to €25m (£21.2m) could tempt them into selling.

Patrick Bamford is expected to leave Leeds, meaning Parrott, who is 23 years of age, could come in as his replacement at Elland Road.

Games

45

Goals

20

Assists

5

Minutes played

3,411

Interestingly, former Leeds forward Keane, now manager of Ferencváros, recently praised Parrott and said they are “similar” in playing styles.

“I have a lot of time for Troy. We are very similar in terms of how we play and also our upbringing. I completely respect what he is doing. I know he had a couple of loans, some did okay, but he is playing in Europe and for a really good team.

“You learn a lot more about yourself [at a European club]. When I went to Italy at 19, 20 years of age, even in that short space of time I learned a lot in terms of how to play.

“Look at Troy now, he is still young, still learning his trade. As a young player you have to go on these journeys. Take a few loans. Take a few hits and then go to a club where you feel valued and are the main guy.”

Now, a move back to the Premier League with Leeds could be one to keep an eye on for Parrott.

Monday was the day. Leeds United officially confirmed their promotion to the Premier League at the second time of asking at the start of this week.

The Whites knew that they had a chance to get out of the Championship if they beat Stoke City, and they ran out emphatic 6-0 winners against the Potters.

Five of their goals came in the first half, before Wilfried Gnonto got in on the act in the second 45, and that result meant that they could cheer Burnley on against Sheffield United in the evening kick-off.

The Clarets beat the Blades 2-1 at Turf Moor in a result that confirmed Leeds and Burnley’s places in the Premier League for the 2025/26 campaign, whilst the two teams must still battle it out in the final two matches to see who wins the title.

Daniel Farke can now start to think about his preparations for next season and how his team will attack the top-flight; the players who will remain key to the starting XI, and those who may not be up to the task of stepping up.

One player whose future will be interesting to see unfold is centre-forward Joel Piroe, who has struggled at times this season but provided a reminder of his quality against Stoke.

Why Joel Piroe could be replaced this summer

The former Swansea City marksman is a terrific finisher at Championship level, that cannot be denied, as he has scored 19 goals from 16.41 xG and only missed 12 ‘big chances’ in the division this term.

Piroe scored four goals from four shots, totalling 1.35 xG worth of chances, against Stoke on Monday, showcasing his ruthless edge in front of goal.

However, he found himself completely unmarked in the box for all four of those chances, as the Stoke defenders left a lot to be desired with their performances, and the striker may not get that kind of time and space in the Premier League.

The left-footed forward had failed to score in his previous nine Championship starts, leading to doubt about his place in the team before his exceptional showing on Easter Monday, and Farke may question whether or not he has the attributes to be the club’s starting number nine in the top-flight.

Appearances

44

Dribbles completed per game

0.3

Dribble success rate

33%

Ground duels won per game

1.7

Ground duel success rate

27%

Aerial duels won per game

0.6

Aerial duel success rate

20%

As you can see in the table above, Piroe’s work off the ball has left a lot to be desired in the Championship this term, as he has been dominated by opposition defenders on the ground and in the air.

The 25-year-old striker is too lightweight at times, as shown by his dreadful success rate in duels, and that is a big concern ahead of a Premier League season where Leeds will be with their backs against the wall and fighting to avoid relegation.

All three newly-promoted teams, assuming Ipswich do not win all five of their remaining games and West Ham lose all of theirs, are being relegated from the Premier League this year, as they were the year before, which illustrates how difficult it will be for the Whites.

This means that Leeds will likely need a centre-forward who can alleviate pressure on the team by holding the ball up, duelling with defenders, and by running the channels to stretch the play and open up space for the midfielders to work.

Chalkboard

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Unfortunately, Piroe’s physical data suggests that he will not be cut out for thatrole in the Premier League, which is why Farke could replace him with a new signing this summer.

One star from the 6-0 win over the Potters who should not be replaced in the starting XI for next season, though, is right-back Jayden Bogle, who has been an even better signing than Piroe.

Why Bogle has been a better signing than Piroe for Leeds

The English full-back was reportedly signed for a fee of £5m from rivals Sheffield United last summer, whereas Piroe was signed from Swansea for a reported fee of more than £10m in the summer of 2023.

Despite costing less than half as much as the Dutchman, Bogle has been far more consistent in his performances over the course of this promotion-winning campaign at right-back, showing that the club hit the jackpot with their deal for the defender.

Piroe has dipped in-and-out of the team at times, coming off the bench on ten occasions, and has gone through dry spells, with zero goals in nine games prior to the Stoke match, as well as struggling with his lack of physicality consistently throughout the season.

Bogle, on the other hand, has started all 42 of his appearances in the division, averaging 87 minutes played per game, which illustrates how much Farke has relied on him week-in-week-out.

Tackles + interceptions

3.2

xG

5.09

Ball recoveries per game

3.5

Goals

6

Ground duel success rate

55%

Big chances created

9

Aerial duel success rate

53%

xA

5.63

Error led to goal

0

Assists

4

As you can see in the table above, the 24-year-old full-back has shown that he can mix defensive quality and strength with outstanding attacking contributions from a defensive position.

Bogle, whose pass to Piroe against Preston was dubbed “tremendous” by Aidy White, has the drive and quality to motor down the right flank to deliver goals and assists – assisting Piroe’s second against Stoke.

The ex-Sheffield United star has also won the majority of his duels on the ground and in the air, without making any errors that have directly led to goals against for Leeds.

Therefore, Bogle is a complete full-back who seems to have the qualities required to make the step up to the Premier League in Farke’s current team, because he has the physicality and the technical ability to deal with the step up.

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This is why he was an even better signing than Piroe because he can handle both sides of the game, making him a player with top-flight potential, and he cost less than half as much, which shows that Farke hit the jackpot by signing him from the Blades.

Celtic’s dream of winning the domestic treble this season is still alive after they hammered St. Johnstone 5-0 at Hampden Park in the semi-finals of the SFA Cup.

The Hoops already won the League Cup earlier this season, and they are a win away from sealing the Scottish Premiership title, which means that the SFA Cup is the last trophy that they need to clinch to seal the treble.

Brendan Rodgers was unable to win all three domestic competitions in his first season back at Parkhead, as his team lost to Kilmarnock in the early stages of the League Cup in August 2023.

The Hoops are well on course to enjoy a perfect domestic campaign this time, however, after a fantastic performance and result against the Saints on Sunday.

Two goals from Daizen Maeda and strikes from Adam Idah, Jota, and Callum McGregor sealed the win for the Scottish giants, with four of the goals scored in the first half.

Idah was given the nod in the centre-forward position despite enduring a fairly difficult first full season at Parkhead since joining on a permanent deal last summer.

Adam Idah's Celtic struggles this season

The Ireland international scored eight goals in 15 Premiership games and scored a last-minute winner against Rangers in the SFA Cup final during his loan spell in the second half of last season.

His impressive displays during that loan spell led to Celtic making the decision to pay a reported fee of £8.5m to Norwich City to sign him permanently, with add-ons that could take the deal to £9.5m.

It was a huge amount of money to spend on the striker, when you consider that Odsonne Edouard was the most-expensive striker signing in the club’s history at £9m prior to that deal, and he has yet to justify the price tag with his performances this term.

Idah has only started 16 of his 30 appearances in the Premiership this season, scoring eight goals, as Maeda has been preferred ahead of him in the number nine role more often than not since Kyogo Furuhashi’s move to Rennes in January.

The former Canaries marksman had a chance to step up as the first-choice centre-forward after the Japan international moved on from Parkhead at the start of the year, but he has failed to take that opportunity.

Appearances

30

Starts

16

xG

10.7

Goals

8

xG differential

-2.7

Big chances missed

13

Conversion rate

14%

As you can see in the table above, Idah has underperformed against his xG by almost three goals and missed a whopping 13 ‘big chances’ in 16 starts in the league.

These statistics show that the £8.5m signing has been wasteful with the chances that have come his way in the Premiership, which is why he has yet to justify the money spent on his services so far.

Kyogo, who cost the club a reported £4.6m from Vissel Kobe, scored 63 goals in 116 Premiership games for the club and Idah is yet to prove that he can deliver that kind of quality or consistency for the Hoops in the final third.

Of course, the Ireland international only turned 24 in February and still has time left ahead of him to develop and improve, but the club may have hoped for more instant success on the pitch for the money that was spent on him.

Idah’s struggles since joining for a deal that could rise to £9.5m may be particularly frustrating when there is a former Celtic forward out there who could have been an upgrade on him, and a perfect replacement for Kyogo Furuhashi.

Celtic sold their perfect Kyogo replacement for £400k

Attacking midfielder Lewis Morgan joined the Hoops from St Mirren at the start of 2018 and went on to score just two goals in 31 first-team appearances for the club.

The versatile attacker also had loan spells with St Mirren and Sunderland during his time with Celtic, before being sold to Inter Miami for a reported fee of £400k at the start of 2020. Before Lionel Messi, they had Lewis Morgan.

He produced seven goals and seven assists in 58 matches for Inter Miami, a respectable return for a player who played in midfield or on the wing, before being sold to New York Red Bulls at the end of 2021.

Since his move to the Big Apple, Morgan has mainly been deployed as a centre-forward in what has been a big positional shift in his career, from being a midfielder by trade to leading the line in the MLS.

His performances for New York Red Bulls in comparison to his form for Inter Miami and Celtic suggests that he should have been playing as a striker earlier on in his career.

Morgan missed 31 matches in the 2023 MLS season, due to a hip injury, but excelled at the top end of the pitch in the 2022 and 2024 campaigns either side of those injury woes.

Appearances

33

34

xG

N/A

13.40

Goals

15

13

Big chances missed

1

10

Big chances created

7

13

Assists

3

5

As you can see in the table above, Morgan scored 28 goals and only missed 11 ‘big chances’ in those two seasons combined, whilst Idah has missed 13 ‘big chances’ and only scored eight goals in the current Premiership this season.

This suggests that the Scottish attacker is more clinical, and more creative with his 20 ‘big chances’ created, than the Irish marksman, and that he could be an upgrade on him in the present day.

Morgan did not get the chance to showcase his quality as a striker during his time at Parkhead, which is something that the coaches may look back on with regret, as his form since playing that role suggests that he could have been the ideal long-term replacement for Kyogo.

Like the Japanese forward, the right-footed ace does not have a traditional number nine build, standing at 5 foot 10, but he has the mobility, the movement, and the quality on the ball to make things happen, as shown by his form in America with a regular stream of goals when fit.

Celtic have struck gold with "priceless" star who's worth more than Jota

Celtic have hit the jackpot with this star who is now worth more than Jota.

ByDan Emery Apr 21, 2025

Therefore, Celtic accidentally binned their perfect replacement for Kyogo for just £400k because they did not see the potential for him to play as a centre-forward, and they now have an £8.5m signing who has yet to prove himself on the pitch in that role.

Liverpool have recently made a new approach to sign a £40m star who is open to the idea of moving to rivals Manchester United.

Liverpool close to new Salah and Van Dijk deals in boost for Slot

The Reds are on course to win the Premier League title in Arne Slot’s first season at Anfield, however, a lot of the talk at Anfield has been on the futures of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah.

Alexander-Arnold looks likely to join Real Madrid on a free transfer, although Liverpool have seemingly made progress on keeping both Van Dijk and Salah on Merseyside.

Reliable reporter David Ornstein of The Athletic has recently claimed both Van Dijk and Salah are “on the brink of signing two-year extensions” at Liverpool.

“Resolving contract situations regarding key personnel was one of the biggest challenges Richard Hughes inherited when he started work as Liverpool sporting director just over a year ago.

“It’s been a long road but with Salah and Van Dijk on the brink of signing two-year extensions, it will provide the perfect boost for Arne Slot’s side as they close in on being crowned Premier League champions. There has always been confidence internally at Anfield that the duo would stay put.”

£70m PL star wants to sign for Liverpool & he'd be a better move than Isak

Liverpool may decide to make a move for a player who would be a better addition than Alexander Isak.

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There could still be more Anfield departures alongside Alexander-Arnold, though, with Darwin Nunez and Diogo Jota both linked with exits.

Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap has been mooted as a potential attacking addition ahead of Slot’s second season, and a new update has now emerged over a move for the former Manchester City youngster.

Liverpool make new approach for Ipswich star Delap

According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool have made a new approach over a deal for Delap in recent days. The Reds, alongside Chelsea, are keen to get ahead in the race to sign Delap, who has a £40m release clause in his contract. However, should Ipswich suffer relegation, that figure would drop to £30m.

Man Utd are also keen on signing Delap, and the forward is interested in the idea of moving to Old Trafford ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Liverpool see Delap as a top target, though, and he actually shares the same CAA Stellar agency as Reds defender Ibrahima Konate. The 22-year-old has been a shining light for the Tractor Boys this season, scoring an impressive 12 goals in 30 Premier League games.

Delap’s next destination could be one of the transfer sagas of the summer, and by the looks of things, Liverpool and FSG are keen to win the race following this new update.

Liverpool are now ramping up their interest in a defender who’s been likened to Eder Militao, with Trent Alexander-Arnold looking increasingly likely to move to Real Madrid this summer, according to a report.

Trent's time at Anfield coming to an end

With just a matter of months remaining on Alexander Arnold’s contract, the right-back looks set to leave at the end of the season, and Real Madrid is in his sights, as revealed by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Conor Bradley is the obvious choice to replace Trent, with the Northern Irish youngster stepping in at right-back on a number of occasions this season, but there is a feeling the Reds could also look to bring in another option this summer.

Newcastle United’s Tino Livramento is one of the latest defenders to be linked with a surprise move to Anfield, while contact has also been made over a deal for Celta Vigo’s Oscar Mingueza, who has a release clause of just £17m.

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The Reds are now in the race to sign a “world-class” striker, having made the first move towards getting a deal done.

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According to a report from The Boot Room, another target has also now entered the frame, with Liverpool ramping up their interest in SC Freiburg’s Kiliann Sildillia, who is also on the radar of Premier League rivals Manchester City, Aston Villa and Brighton.

Sildillia is deemed likely to leave Freiburg this summer, amid interest from a number of England’s top clubs, having put in some top performances at right-back this season, although he is also able to slot in at centre-back when required.

The Reds have watched the defender on more than one occasion in recent weeks, such is their level of interest, with his contract set to expire in 2026, making this summer Freiburg’s last chance to cash-in.

"Revelation" Sildillia could be upgrade on Trent defensively

Liverpool would be hard-pressed to find any full-back capable of replacing Trent’s attacking numbers, but there are signs the Freiburg ace could be an upgrade from a defensive point of view.

The Frenchman has outperformed the Reds’ academy graduate on a number of key defensive metrics over the past year, ranking very highly, when compared to his positional peers in Europe’s ‘big five’ leagues.

Statistic

Average per 90

Interceptions

1.45 (91st percentile)

Blocks

1.66 (88th percentile)

Clearances

3.83 (94th percentile)

Aerials won

2.28 (99th percentile)

Not only that, but the full-back, who has been a “revelation” in the Bundesliga, is capable of contributing going forward, ranking in the 97th percentile for non-penalty goals. The 22-year-old’s versatility could also be of use to Arne Slot, with scout/analyst Jacek Kulig likening him to Real Madrid’s Militao, who is able to play at both centre-back and right-back.

There is theoretically still time for a late U-turn from Trent, but with it looking ever more likely he will move to Madrid this summer, Sildillia has proven he could be a solid signing.

Tottenham Hotspur created a triumphant atmosphere toward the end of their frenzied Premier League clash with Manchester United down N17. Two late goals had turned the clash on its head and the home side were moments away from three points.

But Red Devils defender Matthijs de Ligt headed home from a corner at the eleventh hour, and Thomas Frank’s side had to settle for a draw.

The deflation was felt across the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with this team of talented players still caught in a continuous state of ebb and flow. They may sit third in the Premier League after 11 matches, but improvements are needed both mentally and in attack.

The truth is that Tottenham weren’t up to scratch throughout the first half, and while they improved after the break, it didn’t prove to be enough as Ruben Amorim’s mini-revival continues.

Spurs' worst performers vs Man Utd

Tottenham’s draw to Manchester United was as dramatic as they come. However, it was a game that accentuated the flaws in Frank’s team, having struggled to create chances in the first half and finally up things around on home soil, with the Londoners having won only seven of 24 home matches since the start of last season.

Several stars weren’t at the races. Guglielmo Vicario should have been stronger in repelling De Ligt’s last-gasp effort, while Pedro Porro toiled from a defensive standpoint at right-back.

Randal Kolo Muani will feel aggrieved to have been withdrawn at half-time, but the French centre-forward drifted through the opening half and struggled to latch onto any balls and find space to strike on goal. Across 191 minutes of Premier League action this season, Kolo Muani has taken just one shot, and he is yet to score or assist.

Ahead of Spain international Porro was Brennan Johnson, who continues to be something of an enigma, endowed with such speed and an eye for goal, and yet drifting through matches all too often.

Johnson needs to do better, but he was arguably more energetic and active in his display than his counterpart on the other wing. For sure, Frank will be left frowning over his combination on the left, having witnessed a discordant performance.

Frank must never start Spurs duo together again

Credit must be handed to Richarlison for his striker’s instinct in flicking Wilson Odobert’s shot past Senne Lammens and into the back of the net, but he flattered to deceive for much of the contest and did little to suggest he is the talismanic force Tottenham need to sustain a place at the very top of English and European football.

Regarding Djed Spence: one analyst remarked that the placement of the 25-year-old on the left is “killing Tottenham on the flank”, with the side finding “zero balance in possession” when he is flipped onto his left side.

Had Mohammed Kudus been fit and darting about in front of him, it might have been less apparent against United, but Richarlison was not at the races, even though he scored late on.

The truth is that Richarlison’s fine flick masqueraded over another poor performance, lots of huff and puff, but not enough by the way of impact.

And, as we already know, the contest reaffirmed the truth of Spence, who is not a left-back and does not promote Tottenham’s full efficiency and fluency when placed there, especially behind a wide forward in Richarlison, who was described by writer Halal Wyler as being a “real-life cartoon villain”.

Once Destiny Udogie and Odobert, who impressed and then some in his cameo, had entered the field and dynamised the left-hand side, Spurs looked a cleaner, more polished outfit for it.

It is for this reason that the duo cannot be allowed to play down that channel together again. Richarlison is limited in technical scope, and Spence is left trying to connect in an unnatural role with an imperfect attacking partner. In harsher terms and as analyst Raj Chohan put it, it’s a pretty “garbage” duo when they play together.

The duo’s statistics from the clash underscore this. While the left-back produced some convincing defensive numbers, and Richarlison indeed bagged himself a goal, neither can be truly content with their performances.

Minutes played

90′

90′

Goals

0

1

Assists

0

0

Touches

68

38

Shots (on target)

0 (0)

3 (1)

Accurate passes

33/42 (79%)

17/22 (77%)

Possession lost

16x

9x

Chances created

0

0

Crosses

0/2

0/0

Dribbles

0/2

0/1

Recoveries

5

1

Tackles won

3/3

1/2

Clearances

3

2

Duels won

4/11

4/10

Writing about the respective performances after the match, football.london’s Alasdair Gold saw it fit to hand Spence a 6/10 match rating and a 7/10 score to Richarlison. However, this is somewhat generous, and there’s no question that Tottenham are a more fluent outfit with a different combination running down the left.

The left-sided pair, who earn a combined salary of £130k per week, will have brighter days ahead of them in a Spurs shirt, but as Frank continues to develop his understanding of this team, he will surely accept that this is a duo who cannot be fielded together again.

Richarlison may well be playing his final season with the Lilywhites, but Spence will no doubt have taken note of Porro’s “disaster” of a performance at right-back, as was said by Polish journalist Michael Okonski during the match, and set his sights on a return to his natural berth.

In any case, tactical changes are needed when Tottenham return to action after the imminent international break. Frank has the potential to succeed in north London, but he has to start getting the big calls right.

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ByEthan Lamb Nov 7, 2025

Barcelona sporting director Deco has moved to calm fresh speculation around Hansi Flick’s long-term future after a turbulent start to the season raised questions over whether the German would remain in charge beyond 2025–26. Deco insisted the coach is “very happy” at the club while acknowledging that Barca is a “tough” environment where emotions and pressure can overwhelm even elite managers.

Flick's future questioned after early season struggles

Barcelona’s inconsistent early-season form sparked renewed debate over Flick’s long-term position at Camp Nou despite the German signing a contract extension in May to remain at the club until the summer of 2027. Flick’s first campaign brought historic success with a domestic treble, but a series of lacklustre performances and damaging defeats in his second season quickly changed the public mood and prompted scrutiny of his ability to maintain momentum. Amid these concerns, Deco publicly downplayed the crisis narrative, stressing that the internal view of Flick remains supportive and that no discussions have taken place regarding an early departure.

The speculation intensified following footage of a tense moment between Flick and winger Raphinha after the Alaves match, which many interpreted as a sign of underlying tension inside the squad. Those suggestions were later dismissed by Flick himself, who reiterated that the incident had been misunderstood and that frustrations on the touchline reflected competitive pressure rather than deeper conflict. As Barcelona began finding form again in late November and early December, chatter around Flick’s future softened, but Deco’s comments reintroduced the issue into the wider discourse.

Deco’s remarks came during a period in which Barcelona’s results improved and several injured players returned, easing some of the anxiety around Flick’s tactical approach and his management of squad depth. The sporting director suggested that fluctuations in public opinion are simply part of the job at a club where scrutiny is constant and where even minor dips can cause headlines.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesDeco plays down questions about Flick's Barcelona future

Flick had already addressed speculation about his future earlier in the season with a passionate reaffirmation of his commitment to Barcelona, saying: “I really love this club. I love Barcelona. I love the people here, it’s amazing. I really give my best for this club and this is what I want. I live for the club.” The comments were delivered during a period of intense criticism and demonstrated his determination to remain focused despite questions over performance.

Deco echoed that sentiment by referencing Flick’s emotional investment, explaining: “He’s always said he’s very happy here. But we know Barcelona is a tough club. Everything is news here. He’s a very emotional person and sometimes he can’t control it all.”

Getty ImagesWhat raised doubts over Flick's hyper-aggressive Barcelona plans?

The uncertainty surrounding Flick stems largely from Barcelona’s uneven performances against elite opponents and their struggles in the Champions League league phase, where heavy defeats to sides like Chelsea raised concerns about tactical vulnerabilities. Domestically, however, the team sits top of La Liga, boasting the strongest attacking record in the division and securing important wins against Atletico Madrid, Real Betis and Alaves. These mixed signals have made it difficult to gauge whether Barcelona are on the brink of resurgence or merely benefitting from favourable league fixtures.

Flick’s tactical identity – a high, aggressive defensive line coupled with rapid vertical transitions – has produced thrilling attacking football but left the team exposed in high-stakes matches. Injuries to key midfielders such as Pedri and Frenkie de Jong have complicated this further, forcing the manager to rely on makeshift solutions and higher-risk structures. The gradual return of those players has stabilised performances, allowing Barcelona to look more like the side that triumphed domestically last season.

Barcelona’s leadership believes that many of the early issues were situational rather than systemic, rooted in injuries, form dips and general adaptation to Flick’s intense style. With the squad returning to health and Flick showing flexibility in improving lineup selections, optimism inside the club has risen sharply.

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Success will still be necessary to secure Flick's job for next season…

Barcelona’s immediate goal is to maintain their position at the top of La Liga while navigating the final fixtures of the Champions League league phase, where Flick will be judged on whether his side can avoid further setbacks. The club expects improved consistency as key players return, giving Flick a more complete squad to fully implement his preferred structure. Looking ahead, Barcelona’s hierarchy appears committed to supporting Flick through the remainder of the season and into 2026–27, with Deco’s message reaffirming that the German is seen as central to the club’s long-term project.

Seamers do the needful against Warwickshire, as Surrey collapse opens door to points victory

ECB Reporters Network24-Sep-2025Warwickshire 258 (Mousley 74, Barnard 48, Young 48, Hutton 4-46, Abbas 3-33) vs Nottinghamshire Nottinghamshire are within 300 runs of securing the Rothesay County Championship crown after bowling out Warwickshire for 258 on day one at Trent Bridge.Needing to secure a maximum of 10 points from the final round of matches to lift the title for the first time since 2010 after their victory over holders Surrey last week, Nottinghamshire fulfilled their first requirement by taking all three bowling bonus points, led by Brett Hutton’s four for 46 and Mohammad Abbas’s three for 33.And Surrey’s failure to take any of the five batting bonus points potentially up for grabs in their match against Hampshire at Southampton, means they require just two more in this match to be certain of becoming champions.Put simply, if they can muster anything above 300 with the bat within 110 overs in their first innings, the title will be theirs even were they to lose this match and Surrey win theirs.They might have been on the field in pursuit of those runs already if Dan Mousley had not defied difficult batting conditions by scoring 74 after driving Warwickshire recovery from 127 for five.Mousley shared a 117-run sixth-wicket partnership with Ed Barnard, who exactly matched Will Young earlier in making 48 from 104 deliveries. Warwickshire, who began the day in fourth place, are keen at least to overtake Somerset and finish third.After choosing not to bat first, Nottinghamshire presumably would have hoped to send Warwickshire to lunch in a more precarious position than 70 for one. As it was, in an opening session limited to 25 overs after a wholly unforecast stoppage for rain, the visitors lost only Alex Davies, who was leg before to the 10th ball of the match as Hutton found some early movement through the air.Not that it was for want of trying by the Nottinghamshire attack. Abbas, returning from a minor back issue, bowled seven overs that on another day might have generated two or three wickets. Young and Rob Yates played and missed several times and edged other deliveries past the slips. Both executed some good shots, to be fair to them.More rain delayed the afternoon session by 50 minutes. It began with another early wicket, Yates well held at second slip by Freddie McCann in Abbas’s second over.Abbas has taken the place vacated by Josh Tongue, ordered to rest up by England after his match-winning performance against Surrey last week, which illustrates the depth of Nottinghamshire’s bowling resources. Their other centrally-contracted fast bowler, Olly Stone, though he missed the first tranche of matches through injury, will complete the season having not appeared in the Championship side.Though the sky cleared, batting remained a challenge, although patience and some nifty footwork appeared to be paying off for Young. Having saved himself on 35, managing to kick the ball away a delivery from Dillon Pennington squirmed under his bat towards the stumps, he was nearing a half-century against his former county.But then he unexpectedly wafted at a ball from Hutton outside off stump and paid the price. With Surrey already dismissed by Hampshire for just 147, a first bowling point for Nottinghamshire was enthusiastically applauded by the home crowd, fully aware that the requirement to take the title was already down to just four more points.Two more wickets before tea reduced Warwickshire to 127 for five. Sam Hain, pushing forward, and Zen Malik were caught behind in consecutive overs, the latter off a ball from Lyndon James that moved late to find the edge of his defensive bat.The middle session thus belonged to Nottinghamshire, yet Mousley and Barnard resisted and then fought back in the final session, Mousley becoming more confident and aggressive as the partnership grew, accelerating to a half-century from 62 balls, which he celebrated by going down the pitch to hit James back over his head for six.In the final half-hour, though, the pendulum swung back to Nottinghamshire, left-arm spinner Liam Patterson-White claiming the second bowling point with a caught-and-bowled to remove Barnard before Abbas, bowling fast and straight with second new ball in hand, dismissed Michael Booth and Ethan Bamber in consecutive deliveries.Hutton wrapped things up by bowling Tazeem Ali before Mousley holed out to long off, leaving Nottinghamshire within touching distance of the prize.