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تتصاعد الأنباء في الأونة الأخيرة حول اهتمام الأهلي بضم مدافع منتخب الجزائر الثاني، أشرف عبادة، وسط تكهنات على مواقع التواصل والصحف الرياضية، مما جعل الجماهير تتساءل عن حقيقة هذا الاهتمام وإمكانية انتقال اللاعب إلى الدوري المصري.

أشرف عبادة الذي يقدم مستويات مميزة مع أولمبي الشلف أصبح حديث الصحافة، بعد تألقه الدفاعي وإظهار شخصية قوية في الملعب، هذه الأداءات جعلت اسمه مرتبطًا بالأندية الكبرى في المنطقة، وأبرزها الأهلي.

لكن، رغم كل التكهنات، يظل الوضع الرسمي بشأن اللاعب غير واضح، حيث لم يصدر أي تأكيد من النادي الأهلي حول تقديم عرض رسمي، وهو ما يثير الفضول لمعرفة موقف إدارة أولمبي الشلف.

اقرأ أيضًا | حازم إمام يكشف حقيقة أزمة تحليل الأهلي قبل القمة.. ويرد على تصريحات فيريرا

رئيس نادي أولمبي الشلف، عبد الكريم مدوار، في تصريحات خاصة عبر بطولات عن أنباء اهتمام الأهلي بضم المدافع أشرف عبادة: “لم يحدث أي تواصل من جانب الأهلي لضم مدافعنا أشرف عبادة حتى الآن، يجب أن يكون هناك عرض رسمي أولًا من أجل دراسته وإلا فالأمر كله مجرد اهتمام عبر الصحافة”.

وعن موقف أولمبي الشلف في رحيل عبادة إذا ما جاء عرض رسمي من جانب الأهلي: “لكل مقام مقال، إذا وصل عرضًا رسميًا، سأدرسه جيدًا وأعطي رأيي”.

Arsenal’s worst performance of the Mikel Arteta era to date? Quite possibly.

This season has been a brilliant one for the Gunners so far but as Wolves came to town, the team at the bottom of the Premier League table, Arteta’s side didn’t look up to the task.

They struggled to create much of note, relying on two own goals to win 2-1. Their defence was also well below-par. Since Gabriel Magalhaes got injured, they have not been the same side.

Fortunately, though, Arsenal found a hero in the form of Bukayo Saka.

The winger put the team on his back, swinging in the corner that led to Sam Johnstone’s own goal. Then, with the clock running down and Wolves looking like they’d rescued a point, Saka popped up again.

This time it was from open play. He got the ball on the right, put in an inch-perfect delivery, and it was headed into his own net by Yerson Mosquera.

So what went wrong?

Why Arsenal struggled to beat Wolves

As poor as Arsenal were at the Emirates on Sunday, you have to credit Wolves.

The Old Gold have been dire this term but they headed to the capital and played with a renewed sense of organisation, a new sense of grit and fight.

The fact that they scored what they thought was a goal to win them a point said it all. Out of nowhere, Tolu Arokadare headed the ball home with only injury time remaining.

This was a battle for Arsenal and that goal proved it. For that strike, their defending was notably poor. Arteta acknowledged that.

Speaking at full-time, he said that his team showed “horrible defensive habits” before the Wolves goal, suggesting that it was “unacceptable”. Quite.

Chalkboard

That said, they were also abject in the final third. Arsenal created just two big chances, only forced the goalkeeper into one save and had two shots on target.

Against a side who have amassed two points all season, to quote Arteta, that is unacceptable.

What didn’t help, once again, was the performance of a certain Viktor Gyokeres. The Swede scored 54 times in 2024/25 but has really struggled since coming back to England. He now looks like he’s suffering from a lack of confidence.

The three performances he’s put in since returning from injury have been really worrying. He didn’t have a single shot in his 45-minute cameo a week ago against Aston Villa and then after being given a start against Club Brugge in Europe, left the pitch after the hour mark having managed just four passes. He only had one shot of note, too.

Against Wolves, he was just as bad. He struggled to get on the end of chances and barely saw any of the action, completing just three passes. If Arteta’s side are to win the league, then they need far more from their marquee summer signing.

Arsenal star was as bad as Gyokeres vs Wolves

For Arsenal’s forward line this has been a puzzling season to date. In the early months of the campaign, the team were accused of relying on set-pieces. Yet, over the last month, they’ve not scored a single goal from a set play in the league.

Their open play threat has improved significantly. That was until Wolves came to town.

The attacking threat on this occasion, Saka aside, was virtually non-existent. The fact that Gyokeres, Eberechi Eze and Gabriel Martinelli all failed to last 90 minutes said it all.

While Gyokeres will take a lot of the blame for the bluntness in attack, Martinelli must also take some criticism.

Having scored a brilliant goal in midweek, curling the ball in from range, he was back to his usual inconsistencies on Saturday.

What summed up the Brazilian’s performance was his header from one of Declan Rice’s first-half corners. A deep ball to the back post found Martinelli and standing a matter of yards out from the goal, he somehow headed the ball off target.

Minutes played

57

Touches

33

Accurate passes

12/18 (67%)

Shots

4

Shots on target

0

Big chances missed

1

Key passes

0

Accurate crosses

0/1

Successful dribbles

1/2

Possession lost

11x

Ground duels won

4/6

Aerial duels won

0/2

Truth be told, the winger struggled to get the better of an ageing Matt Doherty on Wolves’ right flank. Martinelli only completed one dribble and succeeded with a dire 67% of his passes.

While the 24-year-old did have four shots, not a single one of them was on target. Not great at all.

In the words of GOAL’s Charles Watts, he was largely “disappointing”. It was a performance way below what we’ve come to expect from him this season.

In the Champions League, the Brazilian has scored in five consecutive games but domestically, he’s leaving a lot to be desired.

When Arsenal face Everton next week, Arteta must ensure that Martinelli is back on the bench with Leandro Trossard – arguably the club’s best forward this season – selected ahead of him.

Only 3 passes all game vs Wolves: Arsenal star must now be dropped

Arsenal struggled to beat basement club Wolves on Saturday night.

ByMatt Dawson 1 day ago

Ballpark food is an event in and of itself—even if there weren't a game happening right in front of you, you could easily busy yourself (and your stomach) for hours, experiencing different cuisines, trying new and exciting drinks and enjoying genuinely quality meals that aren't the typical hot dog and popcorn combo.

But you'll also find some pretty wacky concoctions, too. Things like sandwiches layered in condiments and proteins you'd never think to mix together; savory-sweet combinations that will clog your arteries, but also wow your taste buds; and strange-colored desserts that look radioactive, but are really just delicious.

Indeed, stadiums find new ways to wow each year, which is why we've sought out some of the weirdest, wackiest and just generally delicious-looking ballpark food debuting in the 2025 season to showcase below. To be clear, this isn't new food in stadium, but just some select highlights that, to us, look like either gastronomical home runs or somehow still-delectable culinary fouls.

The TLDR? Goodbye peanuts and cracker jacks, hello cotton candy fries.

Let's dive in:

Chicago White Sox:

The Celebration Cake Shake:

Following the success of last season's campfire milkshake, the Chicago White Sox this year are debuting a new "Celebration Cake Shake," which constitutes birthday cake ice cream, pieces of confetti cake, a pinwheel cookie and a maraschino cherry on top. With any luck, it wil encourage the Sox to do something worth celebrating … like winning a game or two.

Colorado Rockies:

Dessert Nachos:

Have you ever asked yourself, "What if these cheesy, gooey nachos I'm eating were sweet instead of savory?" If so, today is your lucky day.

Colorado Rockies fans can this year treat themselves to "dessert nachos," fried flour tortillas that have been tossed in cinnamon sugar and topped with powdered sugar and caramel, then served with fresh berries and a side of whipped cream. Curious, but seemingly delightful. Per Aramark Sports, this new add is a "fresh twist" on a "classic favorite" at Coors Field.

Houston Astros:

Daddy Mac Dog:

As far as heartburn in a hot dog goes, the Houston Astros seem to have things covered with the new Daddy Mac Dog, a footlong angus beef hot dog topped with chopped brisket, mac and cheese, barbecue sauce and crispy dill pickles. Holy clogged arteries.

Kansas City Royals:

The Kansas City Royals are bringing out a few new and wacky-looking ballpark foods this season, offering fans yet another reason to visit Kauffman Stadium after the team's ALDS appearance last year. And there were two dishes in particular that caught our eye:

Blue Velvet Whoopie Pie:

First, the Blue Velvet whoopie pie, an odd choice for a ballpark but perhaps a practical one, given the ease with which you can snack on it. Bright blue velvet cakes and vanilla filling comprise this off-putting but surely delicious dessert.

The Slugger Dog:

A corn dog in and of itself isn't exactly crazy, but you have to admit—the Slugger doesn't look like your average frank on a stick. Indeed, this beauty is made of chorizo and Manchego cheese that is then dipped in batter and a Cool Ranch Dorito crust and drizzled with avocado aioli.

New York Yankees:

Start spreading the news … you can get tiramisu in a helmet.

In case you weren't feeling "New York" enough, the Pinstripes will be debuting a quintessentially New York dessert in the Bronx this season: a Yankees helmet filled to the brim with sumptuous tiramisu. Eating an Italian treat out of regalia for the city's most famous team? Yeah, that's got "I Heart N.Y." vibes all over it.

Philadelphia Phillies:

S'mores Quesadilla:

Similar to the Rockies' dessert nachos, Phillies fans can this year try out a s'mores quesadilla, a decadent-looking sweet treat that yet again marries two of the best flavors in the world (chocolate and marshmallow).

Regarding composition, there are no big surprises here, outside of the tortilla: Nutella, mini marshmallows and graham cracker crumble inside, with chocolate dipping sauce drizzled on top.

Pittsburgh Pirates:

In addition to the team's new 98-oz popcorn bats, two new dishes had us looking up tickets to watch the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park.

Polish Cannonball:

First were the "Polish Cannonballs," fried bites of deliciousness that combine three building blocks of Polish food—egg noodles, kielbasa and cabbage— with bacon and cheddar cheese. The perfect concession-style nod to Pittsburgh's Polish scene.

Chipped Ham Empanadas:

No Pittsburgh table is complete without some chipped ham, so the gastronomical geniuses at Aramark Sports created the chipped ham empanada, a dough pocket filled with barbecue ham, cheddar cheese and pickles. Yinz are gonna love this.

San Francisco Giants:

Miso Ramen and Shoyu Ramen:

Now, Ramen isn't a crazy meal by any means, but it a somewhat crazy choice for a ballpark. Even so, the San Francisco Giants will be offering two delicious-looking new noodle bowls at Oracle Park this year: the miso ramen bowl—egg noodles, seared tofu, marinated bamboo, roasted corn, carrot, scallion, wood ear mushroom and bean sprouts in a miso broth—and the shoyu ramen bowl—egg noodle, roasted pork, bamboo, bean sprouts, scallion, wood ear mushroom and soy sauce tare.

Both sound truly delectable, if not just slightly difficult to eat from the stands.

Seattle Mariners:

Ichi Wings:

Wings are certainly not a wacky food, but given the latest group of slugger inducted into Cooperstown, these particular bites deserved a shoutout.

Meet the "Ichi Wings," developed to honor Mariners legend and 2025 Hall of Fame inductee Ichiro Suzuki. Each piece will be drenched in a sesame glaze that the clubhouse kitchen formulated for the baseball legend specifically.

Lil' Dumpers:

Dumplings at the ballpark? Well, why not? These yummy-looking steamed pork soup dumplings come with sesame and hoisin sauce, and will be served at the Mariners' Walk-Off Market. And yes, the "Lil' Dumpers" name is a reference to Cal Raleigh's "Big Dumper" moniker.

"What Up" Corn Dog:

No, this corn dog is not radioactive; it's just Mariners blue. The "What Up" corn dog is a new Seattle delicacy that's honey-battered with a spicy crunch and served with nacho cheese. Given the color, this is definitely a wacky ballpark food if we've ever seen one.

Texas Rangers:

Boomstick Burrito:

Behold, the Boomstick Burrito, a new delicacy for Texas Rangers fans eager to answer the question, "What if I want a burrito I can split with ?" This gargantuan roll-up boasts a 26-inch tortilla that's been filled with rice, beans, taco meat, nacho cheese, pico de gallo, lettuce and sour cream. It's just the latest entrant in the Rangers' "Boomstick" concession series, which has also featured a 24-inch loaded hot dog, a burger, and the "Boomstick Triple-Play," which combines a hot dog, hamburger and nachos.

Toronto Blue Jays:

Cotton Candy Fries:

Name two things that don't go together, we'll start: Cotton candy and french fri—oh, wait.

The Toronto Blue Jays have defied the laws of gastronomy with a new creation in which cotton candy sits atop fries that have been drizzled with some sort of blue sauce. Despite our best efforts, we cannot get an accurate report on what that sauce actually is, so someone will just need to try this out and let us know ASAP.

And now that Opening Day 2025 has arrived, you can get right on that. All this and more is waiting at a ballpark near you.

A 19-ball half-century from Hilton Cartwright led Southern Brave to victory over Welsh Fire in a tight game in The Hundred.Cartwright made an unbeaten 51 to help Brave rally to 129 for 8, before Brave’s bowlers closed the game out with the ball in a topsy-turvy chase.Electing to bowl first in helpful conditions, Welsh Fire’s new-ball pairing of David Payne and Matt Henry were exceptional, bowling 20 of the first 25 deliveries.Henry in particular was relentless, dismissing Leus du Ploy and Jason Roy on the way to a remarkable return of 2 for 5 from 20 balls – the second-most economical figures in the short history of the Hundred.Brave skipper James Vince dug in, helping his side recover to 53 for 3 at halfway before eventually falling when he pulled a short ball from Chris Green straight down Saif Zaib’s throat at deep midwicket for 29.Enter Cartwright. The Aussie big-hitter went on the attack immediately, hitting five sixes, mixing power and innovation, as he reached a 19-ball half-century, finishing 51 not out as the Brave made 129 for 8.Jonny Bairstow’s lively start was not enough for the Fire•ECB/Getty Images

In the run chase, Jonny Bairstow came out swinging, hitting Craig Overton for two fours and a six in the first set. He then smashed Reece Topley for two fours as the Fire raced to 23 for 0 from the first 10 balls before he fell for 22, skying Overton to du Plooy in the ring.The chase ebbed backwards and forwards and with 20 balls left, Fire needed 27 to win with three wickets in hand and just the tail for company for Tom Kohler-Cadmore.Five wides from Jordan took some of the pressure off before four were taken from Jofra Archer’s final five, including Laurie Evans putting down David Payne behind the stumps to leave 16 required off 10.Kohler-Cadmore (25) then found Cartwright in the deep off Coles, leaving Payne and Henry – Fire’s heroes with the ball at the top of the day – to find the crucial 12 runs to take Fire to victory, from final five to be bowled by Jordan. He delivered a fine last five to ensure it was the Brave who got over the line.”That was an absolute thriller. It ebbed and flowed that whole second innings. The crowd got a bloody good game tonight,” Cartwright said. “I took the game on and it paid off, thankfully… It was an all-round team effort tonight. I thought the bowlers did an outstanding job to defend a small total.”

Big picture: South Africa missing their big guns

South Africa posted a 328-run win in the first Test against Zimbabwe, but they will be depleted in the second Test by the absence of Keshav Maharaj, who has been ruled out with a groin strain.As a result, Wiaan Mulder will take over the captaincy even though he has no prior experience of leading a side in first-class cricket. Having played 20 Tests, Mulder is the second-most experienced player in this South Africa squad behind Kyle Verreynne, who has played 26. They are without many of their main players, including regular captain Temba Bavuma, Aiden Markram and Kagiso Rabada.Related

• Stats – Pretorius, youngest to score 150 in men's Tests

• Maharaj ruled out of second Zimbabwe Test

In total, South Africa have 93 caps, including Zubayr Hamza, who didn’t play the first Test. Lesogo Senokwane and Prenelan Subrayen, meanwhile, are still uncapped at this level.But South Africa have some exciting players in their ranks. Lhuan-dre Pretorius struck a barnstorming 153 in the first Test, while Corbin Bosch struck a century and took a five-wicket haul. As for Mulder, he scored 147 and had a four-wicket haul. After having impressed in IPL 2025 and the T20 Blast, Dewald Brevis hit 51 off 41 in his maiden Test innings.In contrast, Zimbabwe will be banking on experience. Sean Williams struck a sublime 137 in the first Test and has an average of 68.22 since 2020. Wellington Masakadza made a fourth-innings fifty in the first Test. But Zimbabwe will need more from their captain Craig Ervine, who scored 36 and 49 in that match.Blessing Muzarabani will lead the bowling attack with Tanaka Chivanga bubbling with confidence after taking a match haul of 6 for 159 in the first Test. Legspinner Vincent Masekesa produced some magic deliveries, too, but he will have to provide more control if Zimbabwe are to turn the tables on South Africa.

Form guide

Zimbabwe LLLWL
South AfricaWWWWWSean Williams has been Zimbabwe’s standout batter in Test cricket over the past five years•Zimbabwe Cricket

In the spotlight: Sean Williams and Corbin Bosch

Sean Williams has been Zimbabwe’s best Test batter in the last five years. In the first Test, he once again bailed his team out of trouble with his simple but effective technique. Williams’ short back-lift allows him to drive comfortably and he is arguably Zimbabwe’s best player of spin, thanks to his variety of sweeps.Corbin Bosch‘s double of five wickets and a century in the first Test was the first for South Africa in 23 years. Bosch is a hit-the-deck bowler who is capable of hitting 140kph. He usually bowls with the old ball and his century batting at No. 8 was a throwback to South Africa’s heydays of Shaun Pollock and Lance Klusener.

Team news: Muthusamy may get a game

Brian Bennett, who suffered a concussion during the first Test, could miss this Test, and Prince Masvaure, who was his concussion replacement, could keep his place in the XI. Trevor Gwandu, Clive Madande, Kundai Matigimu and Newman Nyamhuri are the other options on the bench for Zimbabwe.Zimbabwe (probable): 1 Prince Masvaure, 2 Takudzwanashe Kaitano, 3 Nick Welch, 4 Sean Williams, 5 Craig Ervine (capt), 6 Wessly Madhevere, 7 Tafadzwa Tsiga (wk), 8 Wellington Masakadza, 9 Vincent Masekesa, 10 Blessing Muzarabani, 11 Tanaka ChivangaMaharaj’s injury opens up a place for Senuran Muthusamy. They also have Hamza, Senokwane and Subrayen as options in the squad.South Africa (probable): 1 Matthew Breetzke, 2 Tony de Zorzi, 3 Wiaan Mulder (capt), 4 David Bedingham, 5 Lhuan-dre Pretorius, 6 Dewald Brevis, 7 Kyle Verreynne (wk), 8 Corbin Bosch, 9 Senuran Muthusamy, 10 Codi Yusuf, 11 Kwena Maphaka

Pitch and conditions: A lively surface on the cards

For a change, pace dominated spin in the first Test at the Queens’ Sports Club. The scoring rate, too, was higher than usual from both sides, though the pitch slowed down considerably later in the Test. The weather remains chilly, at times slipping to around 13-degrees Celsius.

Stats and trivia: Williams second only to Andy Flower

• At 19 years and 93 days, Pretorius became the youngest to hit 150 in men’s Tests.
• Williams, who began his international career 13 months before Pretorius was born, also made a century in the first Test in Bulawayo. It got him level with Grant Flower and Brendan Taylor on the centuriion’ table for Zimbabwe in Test cricket. Only Andy Flower is ahead of Williams now.
• This will only be the third Test since September 2017 where South Africa will be without Rabada, Bavuma, Maharaj and Markram.

أعلن اتحاد الكرة، عن القرارات الخاصة بـ عقوبات بطولة كأس السوبر المصري، وتحديدًا مباراتي الأهلي والزمالك وبيراميدز أمام سيراميكا كليوباترا.

وكان الأهلي توج بلقب كأس السوبر المصري للمرة الـ16 في تاريخه، بالفوز على الزمالك بنتيجة 2-0، في المباراة النهائية التي أقيمت الأحد الماضي، في الإمارات.

وشملت عقوبات اتحاد الكرة توقيع غرامة مالية ضد جمهوري الأهلي والزمالك بسبب الهتافات المسيئة، بجانب معاقبة خوان بيزيرا لاعب الفريق الأبيض لعدم الالتزام بالبروتوكول أثناء مراسم التتويج.

كما تمت معاقبة أحمد سيد زيزو لاعب الأهلي، رغم تقدم الزمالك بشكوى رسمية للجنة الانضباط بسبب التصرف الذي صدر من اللاعب بعد تجاهله مصافحة هشام نصر أثناء مراسم التتويج عقب نهائي كأس السوبر المحلي.

طالع | لاعب الأهلي السابق مهاجمًا زيزو بسبب هشام نصر: دولاب المبادئ انتهى وهذا الثنائي أقل من الزمالك عقوبات السوبر المصري 2026/2025

– توقيع غرامة مالية على الزمالك قيمتها مائة ألف جنيه، للسباب الجماعي من جماهيره في المباراة النهائية أمام الأهلي.

– توقيع غرامة مالية على الزمالك قيمتها مائة ألف جنيه، للسباب الجماعي من جماهيره في مباراة نصف النهائي أمام بيراميدز. – توقيع غرامة مالية على الأهلي قيمتها مائة ألف جنيه، للسباب الجماعي من جماهيره في المباراة النهائية أمام الزمالك.

– ⁠توقيع غرامة مالية على أحمد مصطفى محمد سيد لاعب الأهلي قيمتها خمسون ألف جنيه، وذلك لعدم الالتزام بالبروتوكول الخاص بمراسم التتويج.

– توقيع غرامة مالية على خوان ألفينا بيزيرا لاعب نادي الزمالك قيمتها خمسون ألف جنيه، وذلك لعدم الالتزام بالبروتوكول الخاص بمراسم التتويج.

– إيقاف كرونوسلاف يورتشيتش المدير الفني لفريق بيراميدز مباراة واحدة وتغريمه عشرة آلاف جنيه، وذلك بسبب طرده للاعتراض خلال مباراة تحديد صاحبي المركزين الثالث والرابع أمام سيراميكا كليوبترا.

Tottenham have been handed a major boost which could leave members of the Spurs squad thrilled, as detailed by reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Thomas Frank looking to extend excellent Spurs start against Aston Villa

Thomas Frank has lost just two out of his first 11 games in charge of the Lilywhites, including excellent wins away to Man City, West Ham and Leeds United.

Thomas Frank’s managerial record at Tottenham so far

Stats

Matches

11

Wins

5

Draws

3

Losses

2

Points

18

Points per game

1.91

While ex-chair Daniel Levy’s decision to part company with Ange Postecoglou — despite the Australian guiding Spurs to their first major trophy in 17 years — was met with a very mixed response, the call has so far been vindicated.

Aston Villa, who are in the midst of a mini-revival after a very poor start to 2025/2026, winning their last four games in all competitions, pose a tricky test for Frank’s side as former Arsenal boss Unai Emery looks to keep Villa’s good form going.

Much like the last international break in September, it’s been a very eventful last fortnight for Spurs in the build up to their Premier League return.

Last week, the club announced a £100 million capital injection from the Lewis family, which could partly be reinvested into Tottenham’s recruitment drive or bolstering their wage structure (Kaveh Solhekol).

Soon afterward, the North Londoners confirmed that Fabio Paratici has returned to the club in an official full-time capacity, after months of reports tipping the Italian to come back after his worldwide FIFA ban ended.

Paratici was managing director between 2021 and 2023 before he was forced to resign, and has regularly worked as an outside consultant for the club, including the most recent summer window.

Related Lange and Paratici prepared to pay £43m for defender with Tottenham approach expected

The co-sporting directors are already looking to solve Frank’s centre-back problem.

Posts ByEmilio Galantini Oct 17, 2025

The 53-year-old advised Johan Lange — who he now works alongside in a co-sporting director role — CEO Vinai Venkatesham, and Frank on Tottenham’s transfer strategies, with Paratici now back at N17 as a proper employee.

Before his exit two years ago, the transfer chief played a key role in signing key first-team stars like Cristian Romero, Dejan Kulusevski, Pedro Porro, Rodrigo Bentancur, Djed Spence, Destiny Udogie and Pape Sarr, with Paratici now tasked as Tottenham’s ‘dealmaker’ while Lange shoulders the responsibility of scouting and data-driven recruitment.

Romano shares why Paratici return is "really important news for Tottenham"

Speaking via his YouTube channel after the announcement of Paratici’s re-hire, famous reporter Romano shared exactly why it is “really important news” for Tottenham — suggesting that members of the squad will be thrilled as well.

Bringing a wealth of experience and a proven track record in transfer dealings, Paratici is also known for his extensive contact network across Europe, with Michael Bridge jokingly reporting it’s as long as the Yellow Pages (Sky Sports).

Paratici’s reputation as a fierce negotiator is another significant asset. He’s renowned for his ability to navigate complex deals, and his savvy approach to negotiations ensures Tottenham can compete in the transfer market without overpaying, while still landing impactful players to strengthen the squad.

Beyond his contacts and negotiation skills, Paratici is also rumoured to possess a relentless work ethic. He is hands-on and detail-oriented, often working long hours to ensure all aspects of a deal are covered.

This dedication translates into a focused recruitment strategy that aligns with the club’s ambitions, with Paratici’s presence coming as a big boost for Frank.

With time ticking by on deadline day, Manchester United have reportedly reached a “total agreement” to sign one of their top targets just hours before the transfer window slams shut.

Man Utd's deadline day business

The Red Devils have already had a busy day on the outgoings front in hope of making room for some much-needed fresh faces. At the death, it looks as though both Jadon Sancho and Antony are set to get their moves to both Aston Villa and Real Betis, freeing up space on United’s hefty wage bill as a result.

Antony’s move will come as a particular relief after Betis responded to earlier reports that they had completed a move for the winger, saying: “There is no agreement for Antony and we have withdrawn the offer. We can’t afford the fee and the amounts that Manchester United must instead pay the player before the transfer.”

With two unwanted stars heading for the exit door, those at Old Trafford have also got to work on players that could arrive in the other direction. And the focus has been on finding a new goalkeeper.

The main question has been regarding just who will be arriving to replace Andre Onana. There has been little doubts that the Red Devils would be welcoming a new No.1 after one mistake too many from the former Inter Milan man.

It looked as though it would be Emiliano Martinez who arrives at one stage, as Manchester United shifted their focus towards the Argentine. Alas, after a late twist, United have now reportedly reached a total agreement to welcome an alternative option.

Man Utd reach "total agreement" to sign Lammens

As reported by The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Manchester United have now reached a “total agreement” to sign Senne Lammens from Royal Antwerp to end a summer-long saga. Agreeing a deal worth €21m (£18m), Ruben Amorim is set to get his upgrade on Onana after United chased Lammens over Aston Villa’s Martinez.

Starts

30

37

Save Percentage

81.4%

69%

Clean Sheets

7

8

Saves

127

96

Only time will tell whether they’ve made the right decision, but the stats certainly make for positive reading. Lammens outperformed Martinez in save percentage, saves and only kept one less clean sheet than the Argentine.

Described as a player with “excellent” variance in his passing by analyst Ben Mattinson, Amorim should finally have a goalkeeper at his disposal capable of building from his backline. And that could make all the difference.

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The 23-year-old’s pending arrival is a major step in the right direction for Manchester United’s goalkeeper department and Amorim’s squad, following investment this summer, must simply now kick on after the international break.

Florian Wirtz's Liverpool team-mates have been blamed for the £116 million ($156m) man's slow start to life at Anfield by Germany legend Rudi Voller. After joining the Reds in June on a long-term contract until at least 2030, Wirtz made a bright debut in the Community Shield, providing an assist against Crystal Palace, though Liverpool eventually lost on penalties. However, things have gone south since then.

Wirtz still finding his feet at Anfield

Wirtz hasn’t been able to replicate the scintillating form that earned him Germany’s Footballer of the Year award in 2025. In his first seven Premier League appearances, Wirtz has yet to score or provide an assist – a stark contrast to his 31 goal contributions (16 goals, 15 assists) for Leverkusen in 2024-25.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesVoller finds no fault with Wirtz

Voller insisted that the problem isn’t Wirtz’s talent but the players surrounding him. "He does an incredible amount, runs a lot, sprints a lot, and also drops deep," he told "But he doesn't get passed to him the way he was used to in Leverkusen or the national team. You have to work on that over the course of weeks and months."

Liverpool attack looks disjointed

Liverpool's attack has yet to click into top gear. Wirtz is still adapting to the physicality and intensity of the Premier League, a division known for its relentless pace and unforgiving tackles. Finding his best role in Arne Slot’s system is proving challenging, especially as Liverpool continue to adjust after key departures and squad reshuffles. Moreover, the partnership between Wirtz and fellow newcomer Alexander Isak is still finding its rhythm, which is another concern for Slot. 

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gettyInternational break & time to reset

The international break might be just the respite Liverpool need. With Wirtz struggling to hit his stride and the team still adjusting, a short pause offers a chance for Slot to recalibrate tactics, work on combinations, and let Wirtz recover mentally and physically from the hectic start to his Premier League career.

The calendar doesn’t get any easier once football resumes. Liverpool face a marquee clash against Manchester United, a fixture guaranteed to magnify every flaw. Following that, a Champions League away trip to Eintracht Frankfurt promises another stern examination of Wirtz’s adjustment to life at the top. Wirtz’s talent is undeniable, but expectations are sky-high for a player who commanded a £116m transfer fee.

Newcastle’s summer spending has shown intent.

The additions of Nico Woltemade, Yoane Wissa, Jacob Ramsey, Malick Thiaw, Anthony Elanga, and Aaron Ramsdale all signify ambition and squad strengthening.

Yet, balancing PSR compliance with retaining homegrown or academy-developed talent still remains a challenge.

Unlike the early days of the PIF takeover, when huge sums were spent without the need to sell players, Newcastle must now closely adhere to the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Regulations (PSR).

Players who might have stayed for development or depth are sold for compliance, while in the Ashley era, sales were primarily profit-driven.

These different approaches mean that Newcastle have let some talented players slip through the net – some of whom have gone on to flourish elsewhere.

This tension between compliance and talent retention was evident with Elliot Anderson, and it’s echoed in the story of another Premier League star.

Both illustrate how Newcastle’s policies can inadvertently push talent towards rival clubs, where they thrive in ways they may not have done at St James’ Park.

One of their own: Elliot Anderson

Anderson’s exit to Nottingham Forest in 2024 was emblematic of Newcastle’s new realities.

The 22-year-old local talent came through the club’s junior ranks and had been earmarked as one for the future.

His transfer, which saw goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos move in the opposite direction, was less about choice and more about balancing the books.

Jankuba Minteh was also reluctantly sold to Brighton, and in a mad dash to comply with regulations, potential moves for Anthony Gordon and Alexander Isak were even considered.

Despite the circumstances, Anderson has thrived at Nottingham Forest.

At Forest, he made 37 league appearances last season, contributing two goals and six assists.

According to FBref, his statistical impact is impressive.

He ranked in the 88th percentile for assists per 90 (0.19), 77th for shot-creating actions per 90 (3.07), 89th for successful take-ons per 90 (1.18), 88th for tackles per 90 (3.07), and 87th for clearances per 90 (2.40).

Anderson’s performances were rewarded with his first England call-up, having previously represented Scotland at youth level, and he impressed in midfield against both Andorra and Serbia.

Newcastle may well regret the decision, not because the transfer was financially impractical, but because Anderson’s trajectory shows the club missed out on a homegrown talent that flourished once given first-team opportunities elsewhere.

That said, there’s another cautionary tale elsewhere.

Another cautionary tale for Newcastle

Matz Sels offers another example of Newcastle’s talent management challenges.

The 33-year-old goalkeeper joined Newcastle from Gent in 2016 but only made 14 appearances, sitting behind Karl Darlow in the pecking order.

A loan to Anderlecht followed, before a permanent departure to Strasbourg in 2018.

After years abroad, Sels returned to the Premier League with Nottingham Forest in 2024, in a deal worth approximately £5m.

There, he became one of the standout goalkeepers in England.

Playing every minute of Forest’s 38 Premier League matches, he helped the club secure European qualification.

Sels’ consistency was rewarded with the Premier League Golden Glove – shared with Arsenal’s David Raya – after 13 clean sheets.

He also earned Forest’s Player of the Month award in February and was instrumental in a defensively resolute back four alongside Neco Williams, Nikola Milenković, Murillo, and Ola Aina.

As journalist Louis Wheeldon put it, Sels was the “best in the league” last season – a remarkable turnaround for a goalkeeper once considered peripheral at St James’ Park.

Clean Sheets – 2024/25

Goalkeeper

Clean-sheets

Conceded

Matz Sels

13

46

David Raya

13

34

Jordan Pickford

12

44

Dean Henderson

11

51

Ederson

10

26

Robert Sanchez

10

34

Source: Statmuse

Statistically, Sels’ 2024/25 season was exceptional.

He ranked in the 78th percentile compared to his peers for save percentage (74.6%) and 67th percentile for clean sheet percentage (31.6%).

While traditionally a more classic, less ball-playing keeper, Sels’ shot-stopping and command of his area proved crucial in Forest’s defensive resilience.

Sels’ story, alongside Anderson’s, illustrates how Newcastle’s prior focus on sales for non-footballing reasons has allowed talent to slip through the net.

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While PSR regulations now necessitate tough choices, these examples serve as a reminder that careful talent management is crucial.

Players like Anderson and Sels, who might have been peripheral at St James’ Park, have flourished when trusted with regular first-team football.

Anderson’s midfield dynamism and Sels’ goalkeeping excellence are now key to Forest’s resurgence, emphasising that talent retention should not only be measured in financial terms but also in footballing impact.

As Newcastle continues to invest in a youthful, high-potential squad, the club must navigate the fine line between compliance and opportunity.

The lesson for Newcastle is clear: fostering talent within the club may offer rewards that outstrip immediate financial gain.

Failing to do so could mean more players slipping through the net and flourishing elsewhere.

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