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Manchester City have endured somewhat of a disappointing campaign in 2024/25, with any hopes of retaining their Premier League title out of the window with just eight games remaining.

Pep Guardiola’s side only remain in the FA Cup, but will face an in-form Nottingham Forest side, who have recently beaten them, to have any chance of ending the season on a high.

A rebuild is desperately needed at the Etihad this summer, with groundwork being done in January after the arrivals of Abdukodir Khusanov, Victor Reis, Omar Marmoush and Nico Gonzalez.

However, if it is to continue this summer, the Spaniard will have to brutally part ways with numerous fan-favourites who have helped the club achieve the heights they have in recent years.

One of which could be set for a switch in the coming months, potentially cashing in at the right time and ending his eight-year stint in the Citizens’ first-team.

Real Madrid plot summer move for Manchester City star

According to Spanish outlet DefensaCentral, Real Madrid are keen on a summer move for City midfielder Bernardo Silva – a move that could kickstart any rebuild in Manchester.

The Portuguese international has been a regular in Guardiola’s side since his transfer from Monaco back in the summer of 2017, often being a dependable figure in their success.

However, with Bernardo turning 31 this summer and his deal expiring in 2026, it could provide the right time to part ways and allow for fresh blood at the Etihad.

The report states that the LaLiga giants are huge admirers of Silva and keen to make a move this window, but won’t pay over the odds given his age and contract scenario.

Whilst on the face of things, offloading a player who’s made 40 appearances this season may seem like a big call, the time has ultimately come for the next generation to stake their claim in the first-team.

Why City should look to sell Bernardo to Real Madrid this summer

There’s no denying that Silva has been a modern-day icon for City, racking up just shy of 400 appearances, and winning a total of 14 major trophies during his stint at the club.

However, despite his huge tally of outings this season, the midfielder, who’s valued at £46m by Football Transfers, has ultimately failed to match his usual high standards, with Guardiola needing to inject more energy into the heart of the side.

This summer could prove the last chance for the hierarchy to gain any money back on their investment, risking losing the “world-class” star, as labelled by Statman Dave, for nothing next January – with other clubs able to agree a pre-contract for his signature.

How Bernardo Silva’s stats compare from the last two years in the PL
Statistics (per 90)	2023/24	2024/25
Games played	33	26
Goals & assists	15	6
Pass accuracy	90%	87%
Chances created	2.3	1.8
Dribble success	65%	52%
Duel success rate	50%	47%
Touches per 90	81	68
Stats via FotMob

Gonzalez has already shown glimpses early on in his City career that he’s capable of being a key member for years to come, with a plethora of other young talent waiting in the wings.

Nico O’Reilly has demonstrated in recent weeks that he’s capable of stepping up to the plate, staking his claim for a regular starting role after notching two assists against Bournemouth – helping the club reach the next stage of the FA Cup.

Whilst the 20-year-old operated at left-back against the Cherries, he’s primarily a central midfielder, with Silva’s potential departure opening the door for him to thrive in his natural position.

As for James McAtee, he’s also waiting to get a consistent run in Guardiola’s side, only being restricted to substitute appearances within the Premier League this season.

However, the 22-year-old has still managed to notch two goals to date, showcasing he has the talent to become a regular should the Portuguese international depart in the coming months.

Whilst losing Silva would be a huge call, it’s one that is needed if the side are to return to the top of the English top division, needing new blood to take the side back to where they belong.

Investment from the hierarchy could help soften the blow, but it’s important that the manager hands the likes of O’Reilly and McAtee the opportunity to fulfil their potential at their boyhood outfit.

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By
Ben Gray

Apr 3, 2025

تلقي تشابي ألونسو مدرب ريال مدريد الإسباني، دفعة معنوية قوية بشأن أحد لاعبي فريقه، قبل فترة التوقف الدولي القادمة في شهر أكتوبر.

ويخوض ريال مدريد مباراة مساء اليوم الثلاثاء أمام ليفانتي، في إطار مباريات الجولة السادسة لبطولة الدوري الإسباني “الليجا”.

طالع تشكيل ريال مدريد المتوقع أمام ليفانتي اليوم في الدوري الإسباني

ويتصدر ريال مدريد ترتيب الدوري الإسباني بـ 15 نقطة، بعد مرور 5 جولات على إنطلاقة البطولة، حيث حقق الفوز في مواجهاته السابقة.

وبحسب ما ذكرت صحيفة “لو باريزيان” الفرنسية، عُوقب أوريلين تشواميني لاعب ريال مدريد، بالإيقاف لمباراتين مع منتخب فرنسا بعد البطاقة الحمراء التي تلقاها مع الفريق في مباراته ضد آيسلندا.

وبالتالي لن يُستدعى تشواميني لقائمة منتخب فرنسا في فترة التوقف الدولي بشهر أكتوبر القادم بسبب الإيقاف.

وأشارت صحيفة “موندو ديبورتيفو” الإسبانية إلى أن غياب تشواميني عن المنتخب الفرنسي يعني أن اللاعب سيتمكن من الراحة، وهو خبر سار لتشابي ألونسو.

وأصبح تشواميني عنصرًا أساسيًا في خط وسط ريال مدريد مع تشابي ألونسو، وشارك في جميع المباريات الست التي خاضها الفريق في الدوري الإسباني ودوري أبطال أوروبا، وقد بدأ جميعها أساسيًا.

This summer is a huge window for Manchester United if they are to overturn their lack of success in the Premier League throughout 2024/25, currently sitting in 14th position.

However, despite their lowly league standing, the Red Devils could find themselves in the Champions League next season should they manage to win the Europa League in the coming weeks.

If they are to compete at the top level, all areas of the pitch are in need of investment to inject the needed quality and depth to take the side back to their former glory.

Undoubtedly, sales are needed to provide Ruben Amorim with the funds he requires to make the necessary changes to his squad to try and push them back towards the summit of England’s top-flight.

With the summer window rapidly approaching, work is already being done behind the scenes as Amorim prepares for an overhaul of the Red Devils side this summer.

The latest on United’s pursuit of new attackers

Over the last few weeks, countless attackers have been linked with a move to United, including Liam Delap, who was seen as the club’s number one option for the centre-forward role.

However, no deal appears to have progressed despite his £30m relegation release clause, with the likes of Chelsea and Newcastle United entering the race for his signature in recent weeks.

It appears that the Red Devils have switched their attentions to other targets in the form of Viktor Gyokeres, that’s if the recent reports from Spain are to be believed.

It’s been reported that United have stepped up their attempts to land the Sporting CP striker, advancing talks and making contact with the player’s representatives ahead of the summer.

It also states that they are considering making a lucrative offer to the player and club to hand Amorim a reunion with the player who thrived under his guidance in Portugal.

Why United’s target would be perfect with Cunha

Matheus Cunha is another player who has emerged on United’s shortlist over the last couple of weeks, with the Brazilian potentially becoming their first signing this summer.

Fabrizio Romano confirmed that the Red Devils have already been in talks with Wolves over a deal for his signature, whilst also willing to trigger his £62.5m release clause.

The 25-year-old himself is open to a switch to Old Trafford, regardless of whether or not the side secure a place in the Champions League next season.

Cunha would be signed to operate in the number ten role behind the striker in Amorim’s side, handing strikers endless chances – based upon his figures of 2.1 chances created and 2.2 dribbles completed.

Such tallies would fall perfectly into the hands of Gyokeres, who could certainly end United’s pursuit of a new talisman, taking the side to the next level as a result.

The Swede, who’s been labelled “world-class” by one Portuguese analyst, has registered 52 goals in 48 appearances in 2024/25, potentially forming a deadly partnership with Cunha in forward areas.

He’s also managed to register 2.6 shots on target per 90 and complete 49% of the dribbles he’s attempted in the Liga Portugal – offering a constant threat to all opposition backlines.

Games played

30

Goals scored

38

Pass accuracy

75%

Shots on target

2.6

Dribbles completed

49%

Aerials won

55%

Touches in the opposition box

10.7

Gyokeres has also impressed as a focal point, winning 55% of the aerial duels he’s entered, allowing the likes of Cunha to link up and play off him, bolstering his own goalscoring tallies as a result.

Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal for the Sporting talisman would set the hierarchy back in the coming months, it’s evident that he would massively bolster the attacking department.

The prospect of the pair linking up together at Old Trafford is certainly an exciting one for the supporters, with their talents hopefully pushing the club in the right direction ahead of 2025/26.

Amorim must offload 5/10 Man Utd dud who’s becoming the new Van de Beek

Manchester United took a huge step towards the Europa League final last night with a 3-0 win over Athletic Club.

ByEthan Lamb May 2, 2025

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.

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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 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)

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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?

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.

MatériaMais Notícias

da winzada777： A derrota para o São Bernardo em um Morumbi lotado deixou muito mais do que marcas profundas no time do São Paulo para a sequência do Campeonato Paulista. Encerra, também, uma sequência invicta de quase dez anos do clube tricolor contra times considerados pequenos em seu estádio pela primeira fase do Estadual.

Levando em conta apenas duelos diante de adversários que não disputam a primeira divisão do Campeonato Brasileiro, o último revés são-paulino no Morumbi acontecera em 16 de março de 2014, quando levou 1 a 0 do Ituano.

RelacionadasPalmeirasLíderes do elenco se unem para aconselhar e ajudar a encerrar pressão sobre Endrick no PalmeirasPalmeiras27/02/2023SantosOdair Hellmann defende Maicon de vaias, mas pode mudar dupla de zaga do SantosSantos26/02/2023PalmeirasAbel esquece rivalidade e elogia apoio de ex-Flamengo a Endrick no PalmeirasPalmeiras26/02/2023

da dobrowin：
+ ATUAÇÕES: Ninguém vai bem no São Paulo, e substituições de Ceni não têm efeito na derrota

Na ocasião, o resultado foi encarado com desconfiança pelo rival Corinthians, já que a derrota, aliada a uma combinação de resultados, acabou eliminando o time alvinegro ainda na fase de grupos daquela competição.

Declarações do então técnico corintiano Mano Menezes e do atacante Romarinho levantaram a suspeita de que o Tricolor entregara o jogo de propósito. Rapidamente o então gerente de futebol alvinegro, Edu Gaspar, apagou o incêndio criado. Foi a público e pediu desculpas ao São Paulo pelas falas.

Isso não impediria um vexame histórico do Tricolor naquela competição. Dias depois, o São Paulo não saiu de um empate em 0 a 0 com a Penapolense no tempo normal em pleno Morumbi e caiu nas quartas de final para o rival do interior nos pênaltis, por 5 a 4.

O Ituano? Surpreendeu naquele ano, eliminou Palmeiras e venceu o Santos na final para se sagrar campeão paulista pela segunda vez em sua história.

Desde então, até o tropeço para o São Bernardo, o São Paulo acumulou 21 vitórias e dez empates contra pequenos em sua casa nesta primeira fase do Paulistão.

Evidente que outro vexame histórico do clube em sua história aconteceu no Morumbi. Em 29 de julho de 2020, o clube acabou perdendo por 3 a 2 para o Mirassol e foi eliminado do Paulistão daquele ano. Mas o confronto foi válido pelas quartas de final.

No período de invencibilidade plena nesta fase inicial do Estadual ante os pequenos, o São Paulo acumulou cinco derrotas para os rivais da elite nacional. Caiu para As derrotas diante de clubes da Série A foram para Corinthians (2015 e 2023), Santos (2018), Bragantino (2020) e Palmeiras (2022).

> Confira jogos, classificação e simule os resultados do Paulistão-23

da apostaganha： Manchester United has several exciting youngsters coming through the ranks at Old Trafford who are hoping to establish themselves as the club’s next generation. Some of these players have been involved in Ruben Amorim’s matchday squads of late.

da jogodeouro： That includes midfielder Sekou Kone, who featured on the bench against Tottenham Hotspur and Everton last month. Academy Scoop said on X that he has shown “glimpses of promise” in a United shirt since his summer move.

Another player who could break through is young left-back Harry Amass. The former Watford academy star was most recently on the bench against Real Sociedad in midweek, and he is “one to keep an eye on” according to Academy Scoop via X.

However, arguably the most exciting United talent breaking through is Chido Obi.

Obi’s United career so far

What a whirlwind few months it has been for Obi, since his move to United from Arsenal over the summer. He has made a brilliant start to life in the Red Devils academy, scoring 12 goals in nine games for the under-18s so far this term.

This electric form resulted in Amorim giving him his first team debut, a three-minute cameo away to Spurs. He has since gone on to play twice more for United’s first team, in the Premier League at Goodison Park against Everton, and in the FA Cup against Fulham.

His 52-minute cameo against the Cottagers, which included extra-time, showed just how talented Obi is. He managed to fashion chances for himself and was a real nuisance for the Fulham centre-backs.

United legend Wayne Rooney said he was “really impressed” with the 17-year-old, and Alan Shearer explained, “I like what I see from Chido Obi”. The Denmark under-18 international has made a big impression so far.

It certainly seems like Obi could become a player Amorim utilises more going forward. However, if things had worked out differently, he could have had another talented young striker at his disposal.

Man Utd's original Chido Obi

United’s academy is a place where young stars can make a real name for themselves, like Obi has done in the short time he’s played for the club.

Where Are They Now

Expand Collapse

Well, that was certainly the case for Charlie McNeill, who was a prolific goalscorer in the youth ranks. The now 21-year-old initially left United to join Manchester City in 2014, before returning to Old Trafford six years later, after racking up a real reputation for himself – much like Obi – having reportedly netted over 600 goals for the Citizens.

In 35 appearances for the United under-18s, the striker scored an impressive 34 goals and grabbed 11 assists. He also scored several times in the UEFA Youth League and for the under-23s during his time in the youth set-up.

One of McNeill’s biggest contributions in a United shirt came in the club’s impressive run in the FA Youth Cup in 2021/22.

Alongside now first-teamers Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho, he was a key player as United lifted the trophy at Old Trafford, scoring five goals and creating two others in six games.

McNeill record by round in 2021/22 FA Youth Cup

Round

Opponent

Score

Goals

Assist

3rd

Scunthorpe (h)

4-2

1

1

4th

Reading (a)

1-3

1

1

5th

Everton (h)

4-1

1

0

6th

Leicester (h)

2-1

0

0

Semi-final

Wolves (h)

3-0

2

0

Final

Nottingham Forest (h)

3-1

0

0

Stats from Transfermarkt

Football statistician Statman Dave once described the 21-year-old as a “natural goalscorer”, and it seemed like he could become a first-team player for the 13-time Premier League champions in the future.

However, he only played once for the club, a six-minute Europa League cameo against Real Sociedad, and was only on the bench once more. After loans to clubs in the EFL, specifically Newport County and Stevenage, McNeill left United permanently last summer, upon the expiration of his contract.

The former England under-16 international joined Sheffield Wednesday on a free transfer, but things have not worked out for him there. He has played just five games, with just two coming in the Championship, scoring twice against Hull City in the Carabao Cup.

Now valued at just £167k, it has not been an easy ride for McNeill, who was so deadly for United’s academy. Of course, due to his age, there is plenty of time to get his career back on track and find his best form again.

However, if things had worked out differently, and he got the opportunity he arguably deserved in the United first-team, perhaps he would be competing with Obi for a spot in the matchday squad.

Related Forget Garnacho: Amorim can unleash Man Utd teen who's the next Rooney

Man Utd might have another academy star on their hands

Posts 1 ByJoe Nuttall Mar 8, 2025

Match of the Day host Gary Lineker could reportedly leave the BBC early after sharing a social media post with an "anti-semitic" rat emoji.

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

MOTD host Lineker in hot water againApologises for sharing social media postPresenter's future at BBC in 'serious doubt'Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

Lineker "apologised unreservedly" after being criticised for sharing a now-deleted Instagram post about Zionism, from the campaign group Palestine Lobby, that included a rat drawing – something that has historically been used as an "anti-semitic" insult. The situation has led some BBC staff to call for Lineker to be axed from his position.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportTHE BIGGER PICTURE

Lineker will front the BBC's coverage of the FA Cup final between Manchester City and Crystal Palace on Saturday but The Telegraph reports that any appearance for the corporation beyond that is 'in serious doubt'. The 64-year-old is supposed to continue leading the BBC's Match of the Day show until the end of the season and work with the corporation up until the 2026 World Cup but that may change now.

DID YOU KNOW?

Lineker, who has repeatedly been the source of much controversy in recent years, will be replaced by Gabby Logan, Mark Chapman, and Kelly Cates next season on the Match of the Day show.

Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT?

It remains to be seen what will happen to Lineker, who has presented Match of the Day for 26 years, in the coming days and weeks with the BBC.

Los Blancos are expected to make a change in the dugout this summer, but the new manager won't have an easy time fitting the pieces together

Real Madrid could be in trouble. Things aren't going well at the Santiago Bernabeu at the moment, and there is a real fear that they could finish the 2024-25 campaign without a trophy. That would be an immense failure for a club that brought in Kylian Mbappe last summer.

But there is reason to believe that some of this had been coming. Madrid were carried hard by Jude Bellingham at the end of 2023, and buoyed by Vinicius Jr in early 2024. And, crucially, Toni Kroos was there throughout it all, his metronomic pinging of the ball keeping Los Blancos afloat. None of that matters now, of course. Madrid are bad at football. Changes have to be made.

The ensuing moves are already underway. Carlo Ancelotti is already reportedly on his way out, with the Brazil job potentially beckoning. In turn, it seems that Xabi Alonso – long linked with the job – will come in – and he will have a serious task on his hands. Not only will be face the immense scrutiny of expectant fans, he will also be handed an awkwardly-assembled squad, with tons of talent and glaring holes.

Although Alonso has proved himself as a shrewd tactician with Bayer Leverkusen, this is by no means an easy assignment in just his second senior job in professional management. GOAL looks at the ways in which Alonso could set up his Real Madrid side…

• Getty Images Sport
  

  The obligatory transfer moves

  Since we're playing Football Manager here, three things need to be established; the first is the easy assumption that Trent Alexander-Arnold does indeed arrive from Liverpool on a free transfer. That seems to have been sorted for some time now – his puzzled expression after Liverpool won the league at Anfield last week notwithstanding. It seems likely that, given the strength of Dani Carvajal at right-back – and the new contract offered to him – that Alexander-Arnold will be slotted into midfield (a frightening prospect for those who watched that woeful experiment for England at Euro 2024).

  The second is the less likely but equally sensible guess that Rodrygo departs. His name has cropped up in transfer talk more frequently of late, and it is becoming increasingly clear that he is never going to be able to play in his preferred left-wing position if he is to stay in Madrid.

  And the third – which is much more far-fetched than either of the previous two – is the likelihood of everyone here staying fit and healthy. Madrid have been hit hard by injuries this season, and at the time of writing have just one fit natural centre-back in Raul Asencio. All of the nerdy stuff that follows assumes that Carvajal is fit enough to play right-back, and Eder Militao recovers in time in central defence.

Advertisement

• Getty Images
  

  Traditional 4-4-2

  Carlo Ancelotti claimed a few weeks ago that a 4-4-2 was the best system for Madrid. It felt quite a lot like an act of desperation; Los Blancos were trying to attack too much. They have two very quick forwards in Vinicius and Mbappe, an imperfect right-midfielder in Rodrygo, and Bellingham could, sure, play off the left.

  Alonso, should Alexander-Arnold arrive, could make this one a bit more interesting – but also compromise in some other areas. It would certainly allow for both Carvajal and Alexander-Arnold to get into the team – something that could get complicated otherwise. But it would also sacrifice the attacking nous of Bellingham, and also give up some tempo-setting quality in midfield. A four-man midfield of Alexander-Arnold, Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga and Bellingham, with Mbappe and Vinicius up front, is an enticing thing that might just work, and with Carvajal offering cover at right-back, should be resolute enough defensively.

  Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois

  Defenders: Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, Antonio Rudiger, Ferland Mendy

  Midfielders: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, Jude Bellingham

  Forwards: Vinicius Jr, Kylian Mbappe

• Getty
  

  Leverkusen-esque 3-4-2-1

  The temptation here might be for Alonso to stick with what he knows. There is a real danger in coming to a new club and immediately trying to instate a slightly unorthodox system (just ask Ruben Amorim). Alonso's most effective formation to date is a 3-4-2-1, with two very attacking wing-backs, and dual 10s who play in behind a bigger centre-forward. Look at Madrid's squad, and there's room for optimism, but also many ways in which this simply would not work.

  For a start, it would seem to be Alexander-Arnold's dream – removing his defensive responsibilities and asking him to create from wide areas. It would also, presumably, suit Bellingham, who could tuck in nicely as one of the No.10s. Outside of that, things look trickier. Mbappe could play as the No.9, but Alonso likes his big man to be more static and reliable in holding up the ball. Vinicius, too, could be something of a mixed bag here, his attacking skills valuable when the game opens up but not quite as effective in tight spaces.

  There are concerns, too, at the back. Madrid have struggled for centre-backs this season due to a sheer volume of injuries. Such a system would require a few medical miracles as well as some new signings. Left-wing-back is also an issue. Ferland Mendy would seem too defensive for the position, while Fran Garcia might be too attacking. Perhaps Swiss Army Knife Camavinga could do a job? In short: interesting, but not immediately effective.

  Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois

  Defenders: Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, Antonio Rudiger

  Midfielders: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga

  Attacking midfielders: Vinicius Jr, Jude Bellingham

  Forward: Kylian Mbappe

• Getty Images
  

  Tika-taka regen 4-3-3

  This is the fun one – the high-risk, high-reward setup that could either be a dream or a total nightmare. First of all, it's probably where the purest football comes into play; a three-man midfield of Alexander-Arnold, Valverde and Bellingham would be defensive suicide. But when executed well, it's not hard to see Los Blancos exerting full control over their opponent. It would also, presumably, offer a chance for Endrick to get a real look, while giving more space for Mbappe and Vinicius to play together. Should Alonso opt for a sturdier defence, he could play Valverde at right-wing – as he did in the 2021-22 campaign – and drop Tchouameni or Camavinga into midfield.

  Either way, this setup doesn't scream of defensive solidity but would certainly offer the sort of tempo-setting from central midfield that Los Blancos haven't had since Kroos left. Just pray the game doesn't open up…

  Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois

  Defenders: Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao, Antonio Rudiger, Ferland Mendy

  Midfielders: Federico Valverde, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jude Bellingham

  Forwards: Endrick, Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr

India began each session of day three knowing the best they could do was stay alive, and they did just that. Still, Australia’s grip had tightened by stumps

Sidharth Monga09-Jun-20231:15

Manjrekar: Not a flash in the pan from Shardul

India hung in admirably on the third day of the WTC final through fighting runs from Ajinkya Rahane and Shardul Thakur and a better bowling effort than in the first innings, but by the end of the day it was apparent they had lost too much ground on the first two days. They began the day 318 behind with half their side gone, took body blows to somehow reduce the deficit to 173, but ended the day 296 behind with six Australian wickets still standing.India began each session of the day knowing the best they could do was stay alive. They managed to not get blown away, but in the long, final session, Australia progressed steadily to leave India somewhere between just alive and out of the game.Related

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Ball-by-ball: How Rahane and Thakur rode their luck at Oval

Scott Boland began metronomically and snuck past KS Bharat’s inside edge to bowl him second ball of the day. Pat Cummins and Boland then proceeded to torture the two batters, Rahane and Thakur, with uneven bounce out of the pitch. For the best part of the first hour, they were relentless and quick. Thakur was forced to take a painkiller and wear padding on both his forearms.However, it was still not a perfect display in the field from Australia. Cummins ended up with six no-balls with wickets off three of them. Following Ravindra Jadeja and Rahane on day two, he missed out on Thakur’s wicket on day three. Three catches went down in the slip cordon. Mitchell Starc struggled for control.Once they saw off the threat of Cummins and Boland, Rahane and Thakur began to score freely. By lunch, Rahane was 11 short of what would have been a special century on Test comeback, and Thakur 14 short of a third fifty in three innings at The Oval. The 60-over-old ball had stopped misbehaving by now, and India had a good shout at cutting down the 209-run deficit significantly before the second new ball.Ajinkya Rahane punches Nathan Lyon through the off side•Gareth Copley-ICC/Getty ImagesPost lunch, though, Rahane followed a widish delivery and edged it only for Cameron Green to pull off a spectacular catch at gully. The next three wickets could add just 35, though Thakur did manage to get to his half-century.India bowled with better control than they did in the first innings. Mohammed Siraj, in particular, extracted uneven bounce after nicking David Warner off early. Twice the bat fell out of Marnus Labuschagne’s hands on impact, much like it had done earlier with Thakur. Once he was swept off his feet. Umesh Yadav benefited from the pressure created with his first wicket of the match as Usman Khawaja wafted at a wide delivery.At 24 for 2, India would have hoped for further inroads, especially with Labuschagne struggling, but Steven Smith played a breezy knock to push India back. Having set himself up for a long dig in the first innings, Smith now looked for quick runs, racing away to 12 off his first seven balls. India’s second string of quicks now bowled with spread-out fields as Smith looked set for a big, effortless knock.Steven Smith knew he was in trouble right after miscuing a swipe across the line•Getty ImagesThen Smith tried to charge Jadeja for the third time in the Test. On the first two occasions, in the first innings, he managed to get enough of a half-hit to avoid mid-off, but this time there was enough grip from the surface to take the edge for point to take the catch. To get Smith out for just 34 when he was batting at a control rate of above 90% was a relief for India.Jadeja then used the rough outside the left-hand batter’s off stump to get rid of Travis Head. Labuschagne, standing well outside the crease to face the India quicks, never really looked in control. He ended the day 41 off 118 but, along with Green, he denied India any further success. To their credit, India didn’t allow them easy runs, going at well under three an over.It was half the job done for Australia, who would want to give their fast bowlers at least 24 hours with their feet up before they begin their final push for the title.

Everton are now believed to have made an approach to complete the signing of a “world class” player who knows the Premier League well but has fallen out of favour at his current club.

A host of players continue to be mentioned as options for the Blues in the summer transfer window, including Sheffield United goalkeeper Michael Cooper. The 25-year-old Englishman started all 46 of the Blades’ Championship matches last season, helping them reach the playoff final, but defeat to Sunderland at Wembley ruined their chances of promotion, and he may like the idea of heading to the top flight.

Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi is another player who could want to remain in the Premier League, following his side’s relegation to the second tier, and Everton have been backed to snap him up, amid their search for more quality in the middle of the park.

Meanwhile, Millwall forward Mihailo Ivanovic is another reported target for the Merseysiders, with the Serb potentially seen as a strong replacement for Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Just 20 years of age, he scored an impressive 12 goals in 23 Championship starts last term and could serve as the old fashioned number nine alongside the more elusive Thierno Barry.

Everton make approach for "world class" midfielder

According to La Gazzetta Dello Sport [via Goodison News], Everton have made an approach for Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz, seeing him as an excellent choice to bring in this summer. The Blues are said to have asked for information regarding the 27-year-old, but it is added that no offer has been tabled for him yet.

He joined Juventus for around £42m last summer but was once worth a much higher figure, with Neil Moxley even claiming “somebody’s just having a bit of a laugh” when he was quoted at £60m while thriving at Aston Villa, pointing to Declan Rice’s £105m move to Arsenal as a benchmark.

Indeed, albeit out of form and out of favour in Turin last season, Luiz is a player who has proven his worth at the highest level for many years now, having been such an influential performer for Villa, so he could be a brilliant signing for Everton.

The Brazilian has 175 appearances to his name in the Premier League, as well as 20 goals and 18 assists, with John McGinn heaping praise on his ability, describing him as “world class”, and Jermaine Pennant calling him better than Rice in the past.

“Any team would dream to have Rice, but there are better sixes in the Premier League at the moment. I would say Douglas Luiz of Aston Villa, I think he can do everything that Rice can do and better. I think he assists more, he chips in with goals more than Rice. Creativity-wise he’s better, flair is better, he can put in a tackle just like Rice, break up play just like Rice. So I think if someone said to me you can have Douglas Luiz for £60m or Declan Rice for £100m, easy every day of the week, Douglas Luiz.”

Everton now ready to pay £5m+ to sign new star with same agent as McNeil

The Toffees are ready to take advantage…

1 BySean Markus Clifford Jul 7, 2025

Luiz is still in his prime, so this wouldn’t be a case of Everton splashing out on a player who has peaked, and his box-to-box style could be a great asset for David Moyes.