Club Brugge CEO Bob Madou wants AC Milan to recognise 'the elephant in the room' and up their bid should they wish to sign Ardon Jashari.
Article continues below
Article continues below
Article continues below
Club Brugge rejects AC Milan's first bid for Jashari
Midfielder disappointed with the rejection
Belgian side's CEO asks Serie A team to pay more
Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱
WHAT HAPPENED?
The Belgian club rejected Milan's initial bid of €35 million (£30m/$38m) for their star midfielder. The feeling within the Brugge camp is that they can command a record transfer for the Swiss star. However, this has disappointed Jashari, as a move to San Siro would be a dream transfer for the 22-year-old. Brugge's CEO claims the Italian side needs to accept that they'll have to pay significantly more than their initial bid to bring Jashari to Milan.
Advertisement
getty
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Jashari caught the eye of top clubs in Europe after his impressive performances last year with Brugge, where he won both the Belgian Pro League Player of the Year and the division's Young Player of the Year. The Swiss midfielder scored four goals and provided six assists in 52 games for the club, leading the team to a second-place finish in the Belgian league and to the round of 16 in the Champions League. After Milan's pursuit of Javi Guerra failed, the club identified Jashari as the replacement for Tijjani Reijnders. However, the Belgian club are playing hardball, as they recognise Jashari's potential and won't part ways with him easily.
WHAT MADOU SAID
Speaking on rejecting Milan's bid and emphasising the club's stance on Jashari, Madou told : "We met with AC Milan. Out of politeness. And without mentioning money.Three hours without talking about money was a long time in this case. No, seriously – that matter is the elephant in the room. The elephant in the room. Everyone knows what Ardon has achieved, but we don't see this as the end of a cycle as far as he's concerned."
Madou further added on Jashari's disappointment stating: "I understand he's disappointed, but it has to be right. I'm convinced he'll make a move to an absolute top club, but today it doesn't feel right."
getty
WHAT NEXT FOR JASHARI?
Milan sporting director Igli Tare's stance on transfers remains the same: the club will not overspend to bring in a player and may switch to a Plan B should they decide it's not worth it.
Manchester United now appear to have one foot in the Europa League final after claiming a 3-0 triumph over Athletic Club in the semi-final first leg away from home.
Bruno Fernandes’ double and Casemiro’s header secured the triumph for Ruben Amorim’s side ahead of next week’s return leg at Old Trafford – needing to hold on to secure their place in the final.
Should the Red Devils reach such a stage, it would be a superb achievement, especially considering the side was on the brink of elimination with a handful of minutes to go against Lyon in the previous round.
Manchester United manager RubenAmorimbefore the match
It’s the perfect opportunity for the manager to claim his first trophy in the role after taking the reins back in November, potentially securing a place in the Champions League as a result.
Numerous players produced performances to remember in Spain last night, playing a huge role in the success which led them to a three-goal advantage after 90 minutes.
United’s star performers against Athletic Club
As previously mentioned, captain Fernandes managed to get himself on the scoresheet twice, taking his goal tally to 19 goals across all competitions in 2024/25.
However, his underlying stats from the win were just as impressive, making 12 passes into the final third, along with three chances created – enabling other players the opportunity to impress in attacking areas.
Manuel Ugarte was another player who starred in Bilbao last night, registering two assists for Casemiro and Fernandes – offering a presence at both ends of the pitch for Amorim.
He also managed to win 100% of the tackles he entered, along with five recoveries and five ground duels won – highlighting his impressive showing in Spain once more.
However, despite the performances of the aforementioned duo, one other Red Devils talent failed to deliver, putting his position within the side at huge risk with the summer rapidly approaching.
The United dud who’s becoming the new Van de Beek
Midfielder Donny van de Beek joined United in the summer of 2020, looking to be a key player in the side’s ambitions of returning to former glory.
Manchester United midfielder Donny van de Beek.
However, the Dutchman, who cost a remarkable ÂŁ40m, would make just 62 appearances during his four years at Old Trafford, with injuries also preventing him from being a regular.
He would depart the club in the summer of 2024, joining Spanish side Girona for just ÂŁ500k, seeing the side lose 99% of their investment, highlighting how poor their business has been in recent years.
Amorim may have unearthed another version of the midfielder in the form of Mason Mount, who has massively failed to deliver since his ÂŁ60m move from Chelsea in the summer of 2023.
Like Van de Beek, injuries have hampered his progress, making just 41 appearances in the last two seasons, but also failing to deliver when fit – as seen in his showing against Athletic Club last night.
He was brought on with 25 minutes remaining, but could only muster a total of 23 touches, completing a tally of just 12 passes – unable to have the desired impact.
Mount also failed to complete any of his attempted dribbles or his attempted crosses, losing possession seven times – looking wasteful when having the ball at his feet.
Mason Mount’s stats for United against Athletic Club
Statistics
Tally
Minutes played
25
Touches
23
Passes completed
12/16 (75%)
Dribbles completed
0/1 (0%)
Crosses completed
0/1 (0%)
Possession lost
7x
Fouls committed
1
Stats via SofaScore
The 26-year-old picked up a booking to top off his showing off the bench, before being handed a measly 5/10 match rating by Manchester Evening News’ Samuel Luckhurst – highlighting his lack of impact off the bench.
Throughout this season, Mount has been unable to make an impact, especially since Amorim’s arrival, often being injured but also unable to provide the goods when fit – as seen with his cameo last night.
Given his decline, the club desperately need to sell him this summer, avoiding a repeat of Van de Beek and losing a whole load of money on their investment, with any funds allowing the manager to make the changes he desires.
97% passing: 8/10 Man Utd star is now as undroppable as Bruno & Casemiro
Man Utd romped to a superb 3-0 win on the road on Thursday evening in the Europa League…
Guy Whittall, the former Zimbabwe allrounder, has undergone emergency surgery in Harare after being mauled by a leopard while on a hunting expedition.The incident, which occurred earlier this week, comes several years after Whittall survived another brush with the local wildlife, when an eight-foot crocodile was found to have been under his bed while he slept.Whittall, who played 46 Tests and 147 ODIs for Zimbabwe between 1993 and 2003, now runs a safari business with his family in Humani, in the South East of the country, where it is understood he was tracking a leopard that had previously been wounded by a client.His wife, Hannah Stooks-Whittall, confirmed the incident in a Facebook post, accompanied by graphic pictures of Whittall being treated in the bush after sustaining cuts to his arms and legs, as well as a 5-inch gash to his head.A later picture showed Whittall in hospital with his head heavily bandaged, but giving a thumbs-up to the camera. He lost “a lot of blood” in the attack, Hannah added, but his injuries might have been even more severe had it not been for his “faithful K9″, Chikara, who helped to wrestle the leopard off him.”Chikara [is] coming up tomorrow to the vet after being mauled by the leopard and getting the cat off Guy!” she wrote. “Very special boy.Look what’s under the bed: Guy Whittall had an unexpected guest in 2013•Twitter/Guy Whittall
“Guy and I are overwhelmed by the hundreds of messages of well-wishers after Guy’s run in with a wounded leopard earlier today,” she added. “We are very fortunate that he was stabilized at Hippo Clinic by wonderful staff. He was then Airlifted from Buffalo Range by Ace Ambulance to Harare, then transferred to Milton Park Hospital for treatment.”Whittall’s post-cricket career hit the headlines again in 2013 after he discovered an eight-foot, 165kg Nile crocodile had made its way from the nearby Turgwe river into his bedroom at the game reserve and spent the night there.Speaking at the time, Whittall recalled how he had dangled his feet over the side of the bed before leaving the room, and had only been alerted to the intruder by the terrified screams of the housemaid.”He really is one lucky man,” Hannah told MailOnline. “First he had the crocodile and now the leopard, he really is the cat with nine lives.”
Scenes from an alternate universe where Dale Steyn is playing Tests, and charging in to bowl at Virat Kohli
Alagappan Muthu29-Sep-2019He looked so tiny. Until he started running in. Then he was a blur. And so was the ball. Eventually he made his way down to the boundary and suddenly he was larger than life. So close to the crowd and me that the only sensible thing to do was that old third grade trick. “Tell him to tell her to tell him to tell her to tell that guy in the green shirt that I love him”.Dale Steyn was right there, within throwing distance of a piece of paper with the words, ‘Will you be my bowling hero?’ and yes or no check boxes. The message tree technique wasn’t quite as foolproof as I thought. One ill-timed glass of champagne had been enough for it to crash and burn. He was probably too busy to notice anyway.But maybe now he has a little more time on his hands. Isn’t it ironic that the greatest fast bowler of our generation had to retire just when things are starting to get awesome? Helpful pitches. Insane new talents. Riveting head-to-heads. We’ve already been spoiled rotten but to think we could have had Dale Steyn v Virat Kohli to follow Jofra Archer v Steven Smith… Come on, Dale-aaa. Ambati Rayudu un-retired. Couldn’t you? I want to see you at the top of your mark again, and the batsman trying so very hard to look everywhere but in your eyes.Everyone has their own reasons to be swept away by genius. And Steyn, in 14 years of playing Test cricket, offered us a free for all. The wickets (439). The skill (an outswinger nicked from the gods). The aura (even the great Michael Holding rates him one of the best ever). The wit (Rohit Sharma: Come to India, we’ll show you. Steyn: Shut up, I have more runs than you. Rohit: X-over-mouth emoji. Us eavesdropping: jaw-drop emoji) But for me, the thrill of Steyn was in the anticipation.Watch cricket on ESPN+
India v South Africa is available in the US on Hotstar and ESPN+. Subscribe to ESPN+ and tune in to the three Tests.
Back when I had an arm that didn’t turn into soggy rice pudding every time I bowled, I’d go out to the backyard, little brother in tow, to mimic/mutilate his action, his celebrations, his stare, and, on a good day, his vein. There was one time when I rode this high for weeks: the 2009 Australian summer when South Africa went over with Steyn as the ICC’s Test Player of the Year, won and then invited them back home for the re-match. That series got done in January and the return bout was only in February and I dragged lil bro out every single evening until eventually he threw his bat into the bushes, picked up a stray rock, drew three squiggly lines on the wall and yelled, “What the eff do you need me for?! Hitting that is all you care about.”I felt a semblance of this rush taking hold again as this India v South Africa series approached. Steyn had broken down again at the World Cup and, until the announcement, everything was lining up to make his comeback perfect. We were all hopped up on quality fast bowling thanks to Archer, Jasprit Bumrah, Pat Cummins and more. And as fun as it was watching the pretenders, I couldn’t wait until it was time for the king to reclaim his throne.It was destiny that it was India, too. This rivalry, though never cutthroat, has been endlessly compelling because it plays out in conditions that are almost always bowler-friendly. And while even the prospect of walking onto those sun-roasted turners at Visakhapatnam, Pune and Ranchi has to be exhausting for most seamers, it seemed the most natural backdrop for a man who has never needed any help from any pitch.All it ever took to turn Dale Steyn on was putting a cricket ball in his hand.Now just close your eyes and imagine the first day of this series. India two down early (Che’s still at the crease, obviously) and runs out into the sunshine. That bat is just gleaming in his hands, hungry for runs, and he soothes it by practicing a couple of punchy straight drives. Bam! Four! Bam! Four again!And over by the pitch, is impatiently waiting, his body in proper fighting order. It feels like the one that helped him play 85 of the 111 matches that South Africa played since his Test debut in December 2004 all the way up to that day in Perth when he walked away clutching his shoulder. The crowd has gone quiet. The tension keeps building. Eventually that bat starts tapping on the ground and those feet start pounding the turf.Kohli v Steyn. One of the best now v One of the best ever. And it doesn’t even need actual cricket to be gripping.Would’ve been nice though. Especially considering the other subplot. It took shape in the West Indies earlier this year. The birth of a new outswing demon. Jasprit Bumrah says he always had it, that he just needed time to polish it so that it fit at international level. Well it does. There’s a brow-beaten off stump somewhere in Antigua that is non-living proof of that. How cool would it have been to watch him square off against Steyn? Stupid frail human physiology. You’ve robbed us of not one but two absolute superstars. Sigh. At least we still have Kagiso Rabada, the bowling armada.So where was I? Ah yes. Constructing an elaborate alternate universe where Steyn is still playing Test cricket. Come back, Dale-a. I miss you so much I started making weird memes and posting them on reputable cricket websites.Come back, Dale Steyn•ESPNcricinfo LtdSee.#PostYourSteynMeme #BringHimBack
Hawks needed 42 off last three overs but three maximums in a row from James Fuller turned the game
ECB Reporters Network02-Jun-2024
Joe Weatherley anchored Hampshire’s run chase•Getty Images
James Fuller, Benny Howell and Liam Dawson’s late sixes gave Hampshire Hawks a stunning comeback victory over Kent Spitfires to get their Vitality Blast campaign going.The Hawks required 42 off the last three overs but three maximums in a row from Fuller turned the game before Howell and Dawson smashed over the ropes in clutch circumstances to win by three wickets.Allrounder Joey Evison picked up 3 for 31 – his second-best T20 figures – to put Kent in control before the late efforts handed Hampshire their first T20 win of the season.Daniel Bell-Drummond and Sam Billings’ 40s were the foundations for the Spitfires’ 165 for 9 but it didn’t quite prove enough as Spitfires have one win and one loss so far.Chasing 166 to win, Ben McDermott and James Vince were circumspect, with barely a shot in anger during a 42-run powerplay, as timing became a struggle.Australian McDermott attempted to accelerate things but while his pulled six worked, his hoick two balls later only picked out the deep midwicket-positioned Zak Crawley.Nick Gubbins was drafted in to replace Ali Orr – who broke his arm while batting against Surrey – but his second T20 appearance for Hampshire ended identically to his first, a duck, which gave Evison his second in an over.Evison grabbed his third when Vince tried a slog out of desperation to end his stodgy 35 off 32 before Friday night hat-trick taker Matt Parkinson joined the party when Toby Albert reversed to point.Joe Weatherley and Fuller continued to tick under the rate until the 18th over as the game looked lost.But with 42 still required, and Beyers Swanepoel bowling, Fuller bludgeoned to long on, straight then straight again for three sixes in a row – bringing up a fifty stand with Weatherley.Even though the South African found an edge the following ball the momentum had swung with 18 needed off the final two overs.Weatherley fell for 49 when he picked out long on but a Howell six off the final ball of the penultimate over moved the dial to the hosts again.With nine now needed in the last, the previously expensive Grant Stewart had Howell caught but was smashed over the ropes by Dawson, before a scampered single gave Hawks an unlikely victory.Earlier, Kent piled on the runs in the powerplay under blue skies. Chris Wood – in his testimonial year – was the only one to stem the early runs with his two overs going for just five.At the other end, Bell-Drummond blitzed 42 off 27 balls with hardly anything avoiding the middle of his bat – with the four overs not bowled by Wood in the powerplay going for 52.But things swung when Fuller had Bell-Drummond caught and bowled after a six-second hang time – after a 59-run opening stand – and bowled Tawanda Muyeye.Fuller would have to wait another five overs for his hat-trick ball, which was keenly dealt with by Joe Denly, although Howell spread Crawley’s stumps.Sam Billings and Denly rebuilt with some smart running in a 60 stand, but they both fell in a Dawson over – the former caught behind while reverse sweeping on 43 and the latter holing out to long-off.From then, the Hawks cramped the Spitfires with 31 runs coming off the final four overs, which all saw a wicket fall.
A fortress is made impregnable not through the initial conquering but the success in defending the territory claimed over so many years, and that means Liverpool will need to strengthen their ranks this summer.
It’s clear at this point that Arne Slot is going to win the Premier League in his first term in the hot seat, an incredible feat given Liverpool were effectively written off following Jurgen Klopp’s departure at the end of the 2023/24 campaign.
But Slot will want an abiding position at the forefront of English and indeed European football, and Liverpool’s frontline has looked a little out of kilter over recent months.
Liverpool's DarwinNunezand Diogo Jota look dejected after the match
It’s clear that FSG are going to authorise one or two exciting summer bids.
Liverpool targeting new forwards
Mohamed Salah has meted out punishment on near every opponent he has faced this season, but Liverpool need more up front, with The Athletic among those to report Red interest in Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak.
Newcastle United's AlexanderIsakcelebrates scoring their second goal
However, number nine isn’t the only spot on the club’s radar.
As per Caught Offside, Liverpool and Arsenal are interested in signing Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze; further suitors are in the running but the Premier League’s top two share the lead here as well.
Eze’s strong and potent performances under Oliver Glasner suggest he has what it takes to thrive at a top-performing club like Liverpool, who could do with such a dynamic attacker.
Last summer, the Eagles anticipated a swarm of interest in their silky star but no one came forward. Now, the ball is in their court and demands worth ÂŁ60m have been put in place.
Why Liverpool want to sign Eze
Eze packs a punch. The 26-year-old has gone from strength to strength since leaving Queens Park Rangers in the Championship in 2020 and joining the Selhurst Park ranks for a ÂŁ20m fee.
Eberechi Eze for Crystal Palace
Hailed as a “superstar” by data analyst Ben Mattinson, Eze has hit 12 goals and 12 assists apiece under Glasner’s wing, featuring 48 times in total.
This season alone, he’s been in fine fettle, playing a more creative role than in 2023/24 but doing so to a fine effect.
Eze’s broad skill set lends itself to multiple positions, and while he’s been fielded routinely in the middle of the park this year, he has ample experience out on the left flank.
With that in mind, Eze could be the perfect signing to upgrade on Luis Diaz, whose uncertain future at Anfield suggests a replacement will be required sooner rather than later.
Matches (starts)
25 (23)
29 (23)
Goals
2
9
Assists
6
5
Shots taken*
3.4
2.0
Pass completion
82%
86%
Big chances created
9
6
Key passes*
2.0
1.6
Dribbles*
2.1
1.6
Ball recoveries*
4.6
2.9
Tackles + interceptions*
1 8
1.2
Duels won*
5.4
3.8
While Eze hasn’t chalked up the greatest numbers in front of goal this season, his underlying data suggests that he’s outstripping Diaz across almost every department.
This is important. Diaz isn’t exactly revered for his clinical touch, instead effusively praised for his tricks and slicks, skill and will toward driving play forward and leaving defenders munching dust.
Liverpool forward Luis Diaz
To sign a player who produces such qualities but to a higher standard, more relentless in the duel, creative in his playmaking duties, active in carrying the ball, it’s an intriguing proposition, one which might just dynamise Liverpool’s already progressive attacking outfit.
Moreover, Eze’s clinical side was on full show last season, firing 11 goals home across 24 Premier League appearances, missing just five big chances in an immense display of potency.
Indeed, the Englishman halted Jurgen Klopp’s bid for a farewell league triumph after scoring at Anfield in the 1-0 win in April, with journalist Keifer MacDonald noting that the playmaker had left Trent Alexander-Arnold “furious” due to his slow walk off the field when substituted late on.
Liverpool winger Luis Diaz
Whether the Three Lions star, who scored his first international goal off the bench in a 3-0 win over Latvia last week, is bid for remains to be seen, but Eze has everything that Slot’s Liverpool need, especially if a clinical centre-forward is welcomed to the fold this summer.
In a more distinguished team like Liverpool, Eze may even find himself unlocking his full goalscoring potential. As per FBref, the ÂŁ100k-per-week talent actually ranks among the top 2% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for shots taken per 90.
Having been described as a “wizard” by Arsenal’s Declan Rice in the past, Palace’s main man may just be on the move this summer. Diaz has been a fantastic servant for Liverpool over the past several years and will be duly rewarded with a Premier League winners’ medal in the coming months, but the time might be right for a change.
The Colombian has only scored one goal across his past 19 fixtures in all competitions for the Reds – albeit assisting in four of his past six top-flight games – and at 28 is heading into the penultimate year of his ÂŁ55k-per-week deal with sights set on a new bumper package or change of scenery.
There have been whispers of late that Diaz could be sold this summer to fund a freshen-up. Barcelona have a long-standing admiration and the Saudi Pro League are also there, quietly lurking.
How much of a vested interest sporting director Richard Hughes has in Eze at this stage, we don’t know. However, his efforts in south London over the past few years certainly indicate a future at one of the division’s European competitors, and Liverpool will be right there, ready to pounce if the right opportunity presents itself.
Slot could boldly axe "special" Liverpool star who's the new James Milner
Who will stay and who will go in the transfer market for Liverpool this summer?
It is almost a foregone conclusion that Liverpool will win this year’s Premier League. With the Reds boasting a 12-point lead with nine games to go, all signs are pointing to a record-equalling 20th league title.
While there is plenty of football to be played and nearest challengers Arsenal are still to visit Anfield, Liverpool being crowned champions may not happen for a few weeks yet.
But when could Arne Slot’s side put the title beyond mathematical doubt? And which clubs could face the daunting prospect of handing the Anfield giants a congratulatory guard of honour? Here, we look at the most likely scenarios.
The closest title races in Premier League history
Manchester City and Arsenal delivered a Premier League title race for the ages last season – here are some of the tightest from years gone by…
ByStephan Georgiou May 20, 2024 How many points do Liverpool need to win the Premier League title?
As it stands heading into April, Liverpool have a 12-point advantage at the top with 27 still up for grabs. This means the Reds can accumulate a maximum total of 97 points for the season – which would be far more than enough to claim their first title since 2020.
Meanwhile, their closest challengers, Arsenal, can only achieve a maximum of 85 points if they win all of their remaining games – which includes a trip to Anfield in the second week of May.
Assuming the Gunners go on a run at the business end of the campaign, Liverpool would require 86 points. That means five wins and a draw from their final nine games is all it will take.
Rank
Team
P
W
D
L
GD
PTS
Liverpool
29
21
7
1
+42
Arsenal
29
16
10
3
+29
When can Liverpool win the title?
Liverpool star Curtis Jones celebrates
Liverpool can seal the title within their next six games regardless of Arsenal’s results. If they were to win at least five of their next six games, this currently marks their clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge as a potential party date.
Of course, if Arsenal drop points between now and then, Liverpool could already be celebrating a deserved title triumph.
One slip from the Gunners could pave the way for an Anfield coronation with fans against Tottenham Hotspur on 27th April.
If all of Liverpool’s closest challengers were to fully implode, the Reds could become champions in as little as two weeks when they face West Ham on 13th April – though Arsenal would have to lose to Fulham, Everton and Brentford for that to happen.
And with lots of points to be won and lost, there are still a number of possibilities when it comes to being confirmed as champions, including sealing the championship against Arsenal themselves.
Date
Liverpool
Arsenal
1st April
Fulham (H)
2nd April
Everton (H)
5th April
Everton (A)
6th April
Fulham (A)
12th April
Brentford (H)
13th April
West Ham (H)
20th April
Leicester (A)
Ipswich (A)
26th April
Crystal Palace (H)
27th April
Tottenham (H)
3rd May
Bournemouth (H)
4th May
Chelsea (A)
10th May
ARSENAL (H)
LIVERPOOL (A)
18th May
Brighton (A)
Newcastle (H)
25th May
Crystal Palace (H)
Southampton (A)
Which English clubs will play in Europe next season?
There is a fierce fight to claim a European football spot this season – which teams will make it?
ByStephan Georgiou Mar 29, 2025 Who could be giving Liverpool a guard of honour?
Should Liverpool win every match between now and the end of the season, at least three teams will be giving them a guard of honour to mark their title success.
The first of these teams could be Arsenal, who would be Liverpool’s first opponents should both title rivals win all their matches from here on in until the Reds become uncatchable.
Even more likely to commemorate Liverpool’s glory pre-kick-off are Brighton & Hove Albion and Crystal Palace, with the latter visiting Anfield on the final day, when the home side should be presented with the trophy.
Can Arsenal catch Liverpool?
Arsenal manager MikelArteta
It would take a catastrophic collapse from Liverpool for the Reds to be denied from here – on a par with Kevin Keegan’s Newcastle United side from the mid-1990s.
Mikel Arteta’s team would also likely have to achieve perfection to keep the pressure on the league leaders, and the Gunners have hardly been consistent this term despite their current placing in second.
One omen that could give the Gunners hope is that Liverpool also led the table with nine games to go last year (albeit by just two points), only to dramatically drop out of the title race by claiming just 15 points in the run-in.
Such a return could let Arsenal in if they were to win nine on the spin, but with so much room for error and the Premier League the only thing for the Reds to focus on, it would be a monumental failure if Liverpool were not the new kings of England come the end of May.
Date
Opponent
Result
4th April 2024
Sheff Utd (H)
W 3-1
7th April 2024
Man Utd (A)
D 2-2
14th April 2024
Crystal Palace (H)
L 0-1
21st April 2024
Fulham (A)
W 3-1
24th April 2024
Everton (A)
L 0-2
27th April 2024
West Ham (A)
D 2-2
5th May 2024
Tottenham (H)
W 4-2
13th May 2024
Aston Villa (A)
D 3-3
19th May 2024
Wolves (H)
W 2-0
Will there be a trophy parade?
While a trophy parade has not been confirmed, Liverpool will almost certainly take the opportunity to celebrate their prospective title win with their supporters having been denied the chance to do so in 2020 amid the pandemic.
As far as a date is concerned, there appears to be a couple of obvious options open to the Reds.
With the season ending on 25th May – the day they could officially be handed the trophy – the day after (Monday 26th May, which is also a bank holiday) could be an ideal parade date, particularly with the Reds out of all other competitions.
Manchester City held a parade through the city a day after pipping Liverpool to the title in 2022, while last year, the Citizens celebrated a fourth successive title triumph a week after the season ended, so the following Sunday (1st June) could be an alternative.
Liverpool also held a parade in 2022 seven days after the end of the domestic season and upon their return from their Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid, having been denied a possible quadruple in the final weeks of the campaign.
da pinup bet： Ladies and gentlemen, Bukayo Saka is back. Wow, what a sight that was. Three months Arsenal fans have had to stand by to watch him kick a ball again and boy was it worth the wait.
da bet vitoria： The club’s heralded number 7 hasn’t been seen since sustaining a hamstring injury against Crystal Palace on 21st December and since then, the Gunners’ title challenge has been extinguished swiftly.
Yet, there is still hope for Arsenal’s season. Despite their 2-1 win over Fulham on Tuesday evening, a game Saka scored in, they are unlikely to win the Premier League title.
However, the winger’s return is timely with Real Madrid to look forward to in just under a week’s time in the Champions League.
For once, Mikel Arteta has a bunch of positives to swoon over. That hasn’t been said too often about the club’s season now has it?
Player ratings courtesy of Sofascore
The biggest positives from Arsenal's win over Fulham
Oh Saka, you little beauty. It’s been a hellish 12 week period for Arsenal since the Englishman took to the field but he is back and back with a bang.
He had only been on the field for seven minutes before he found the net. It wasn’t in classic Saka fashion but it raised the roof off the Emirates Stadium nonetheless.
Mikel Merino moved into the left channel and swung in a ball that was guided towards Saka with remarkable skill and audacity by Gabriel Martinelli.
The returning hero was just inches out from goal and couldn’t miss, heading the ball past former Gunner Bernd Leno.
Saka wasn’t the only positive either, far from it. The aforementioned Merino and Martinelli were both in top form, the former scoring the game’s opening goal and the latter unfortunate not to leave proceedings with a goal to his name as well.
Saka’s return in numbers
Minutes played
24
Touches
13
Accurate passes
7/8 (88%)
Key passes
0
Shots on target
1
Accurate crosses
1/1
Duels won
1/3
Was fouled
x1
Stats via Sofascore.
The Brazilian was a constant livewire, not just providing the assist for Saka’s goal, a game-winning strike, but he also found the back of the net himself, albeit it was ruled out for offside.
Nonetheless, it was phenomenal to see the winger back at top speed. He was a constant nuisance throughout, terrorising Fulham’s Timothy Castagne with a performance that was remeniscent of 2022/23 Martinelli.
He left the field having had three shots, completed two dribbles and produced five key passes.
Chalkboard
Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.
Beyond Saka’s incredible return, the biggest positive that aside was perhaps the performance of the club’s makeshift centre-forward.
Arsenal have found their modern-day Olivier Giroud
When Gabriel Jesus went down with an injury during Arsenal’s FA Cup exit at the hands of Manchester United, there was a collective panic. But…it was alright…they were going to strengthen in the January transfer window. Famous last words and all that.
Arsenal did not strengthen. Their reward? A season-ending injury for Kai Havertz too.
Arsenal's KaiHavertzwith manager MikelArtetaafter being substituted
Since then, Arteta has preferred to field the aforementioned Merino as his out and out centre-forward and it’s had mixed success.
Truth be told, the ÂŁ28m summer arrival has done an admiral job. He’s scored five goals in eight games as a striker. Had he started the campaign as the club’s number 9, he’d on for a 23-goal season. Not bad indeed.
Unlike many others during the club’s injury-hit season, he’s stepped up big time and in the words of Arsenal writer Oli Price Bates, is “not getting enough credit for his performances.”
Another game came and went against Fulham where the Spaniard made quite the impression. His goal was a scruffy finish, finding the net via a deflection but it was a crucial goal all the same.
It’s not the first time the former Real Sociedad man has come up trumps, notably scoring that brace off the bench in the 2-0 win over Leicester City.
Since then, he’s been much-maligned, rather in the same way as a certain Olivier Giroud. Now, there are clear differences between the two. Giroud was a direct centre-forward first and foremost.
However, there are specific similarities in the way the two play the game. The Frenchman scored some beautiful goals but he always had quite an awkward play style, a technique that looked rather awkward. At the same time, his left peg was certainly pretty special.
Those traits can certainly be applied to Merino too. He’s not the most technically elegant – he’s a bit scruffy and awkward like Giroud. He’s also pretty underappreciated and underrated. That’s not to mention their ability to act as target men and link play too.
Merino vs Fulham
Minutes played
90
Touches
28
Accurate passes
14/16 (88%)
Key passes
1
Shots
2
Shots on target
1
Accurate crosses
1/1
Duels won
3/9
Tackles
2
Interceptions
1
Stats via Sofascore.
Against Fulham, the Spain international certainly showcased that. He scored the opening goal and went on to complete 88% of his passes and make a key pass too. The 28-year-old was subsequently handed an 8/10 player rating by GOAL.
Merino’s future is certainly not in the final third but credit where credit is due, he’s been a huge servant to Arteta in the back end of this unforgiving season for Arsenal.
Better than Merino: Arsenal must rue selling 'one of Europe's best CFs'
The lean-mean-scoring-machine would have solved Arsenal’s biggest problem this season.
Leeds United are now likely to make a move for an “excellent” attacker if they are promoted from the Championship, with his club setting a ÂŁ20m asking price, according to a report.
Leeds storming to promotion
Leeds’ dramatic turnaround against Sunderland earlier this month felt like a big moment in the season, with Pascal Struijk bagging a late double to secure a 2-1 victory against a fellow promotion-chasing side at Elland Road.
However, the Whites have since followed it up with an even more impressive win, defeating Sheffield United 3-1 away from home in a real statement victory last time out, moving five clear of the Blades at the top of the Championship table in the process.
Daniel Farke’s side have lost just three league games all season, and they have given themselves a great chance of returning to the top tier next season, but the manager will be aware of the need to strengthen in the summer if his side are to return to the Premier League.
Leeds expected to move for "fantastic" ÂŁ15m striker; he's "keen" on joining
The Whites have been tipped to make a summer move for a forward who is excited by the prospect of moving to Elland Road.
By
Dominic Lund
Feb 25, 2025
Some loan players have played a key role in Leeds’ promotion push, namely Joe Rothwell and Manor Solomon, and there has been talk of a potential move to sign the latter player on a permanent basis in the summer.
According to a report from GiveMeSport, it is now likely the Championship leaders will enter negotiations with Tottenham Hotspur over a deal for Solomon, should they achieve their aim of promotion to the top flight.
Leeds United'sManorSolomoncelebrates scoring their first goal
Spurs are willing to sanction the winger’s departure this summer, but he could be a relatively expensive signing for the Whites, as the asking price is now believed to be ÂŁ20m, which is an increase from the previously reported number between ÂŁ10m and ÂŁ15m.
Everton have also been named as potential suitors for the 25-year-old, who is keen on a return to the Premier League, so there may be competition for his signature.
Solomon has been "excellent" in 2025
The Israeli’s loan spell got off to a slow start, often being utilised as a substitute, while also missing a number of matches due to a hamstring injury, but he has been in red-hot form in 2025.
The Spurs loanee has now amassed 14 goal contributions in the Championship, with eight of those coming since the turn of the year, having now established himself as a regular starter.
CBS Sports’ Jake Winderman lauded the left-winger as “excellent” for his performance against Norwich City, and he has also put in some impressive performances in the top flight in the past, scoring four Premier League goals for Fulham in the 2022-23 campaign.
As such, there are signs that Solomon is ready to make the step-up back to the Premier League, so Leeds should definitely pursue a move this summer, although a fee of ÂŁ20m for a player with very limited top-level experience feels a little high.
Tottenham Hotspur have now made contact over a deal for an attacking midfielder, and there is a growing belief they will now be able to beat one of their Premier League rivals to his signature, according to a report.
Tottenham's summer transfer plans
There is a lot of speculation surrounding the future of Ange Postecoglou, particularly since the 2-0 loss away at Fulham at the weekend, which leaves Tottenham 14th in the Premier League table with just nine games left to play.
As such, Spurs’ summer transfer policy could be heavily dictated by whether they have a new manager in the dugout, but they are continuing to assess potential targets who could improve Postecoglou’s side.
Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Rayan Ait-Nouri appears to be one of the main targets in defence, with widespread reports suggesting a ÂŁ30m bid has been submitted for the left-back, while the Lilywhites are also keen on strengthening in more advanced areas.
Ange replacement: Spurs now eyeing "outstanding" 4-3-3 coach who Pep loves
Tottenham have now shortlisted another manager as a potential replacement for Ange Postecoglou.
ByDominic Lund Mar 19, 2025
Lille’s Jonathan David is among the targets at striker, with the 25-year-old set to be available on a free transfer this summer, while Postecoglou’s side also hold an interest in Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman.
According to a report from GiveMeSport, Tottenham have now taken their first steps towards signing an attacking midfielder, having made contact over a move for River Plate’s Franco Mastantuono.
Franco Mastantuono for River Plate
Spurs are now growing in confidence that they could win the race for Mastantuono, given that rival suitors Manchester United have now started to look at alternative targets, and they have now stepped up their interest.
The maestro is protected by a ÂŁ38m release clause, but there is hope of being able to bring him in for a reduced fee, given that the full amount would be a huge fee to pay for a 17-year-old.
"Pure joy to watch" Mastantuono could be future star
The teenager has already been a part of the River Plate first-team setup for quite some time, scoring a remarkable free-kick goal for the Argentine side when he was just 16 years old.
That remarkable effort caused football talent scout Jacek Kulig to laud the starlet as a “pure joy to watch”, and he has continued his fine form this season, most recently putting in a top display against Ciudad de Bolivar in the Copa Argentina.
The young Argentine scored a goal and completed three dribbles in his side’s 2-0 triumph, causing major problems for the opposition defence and showcasing that he could soon be ready for a move to a top European club.
As such, it is exciting news that Tottenham have made the first move to sign Mastantuono, but it could be difficult to win the race for his signature, with reports from elsewhere revealing the likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona are also keen.