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Arsenal have been the best team in the Premier League this season, but defeat at Aston Villa has put a dampener on the feel-good factor, reducing their advantage at the summit to just two points following Manchester City’s win over Sunderland.

In truth, perhaps this was a step too far for Mikel Arteta’s men. The fixture schedule has been relentless, and Gabriel Magalhaes, William Saliba and Cristhian Mosquera all missed out at Villa Park due to injury.

And Villa, to their credit, are among the most in-form teams in Europe right now, claiming their seventh win in a row across all competitions against the Premier League table-toppers.

But this feels like familiar territory for the Gunners, and there were several players in particular who flattered to deceive.

Arsenal's worst performers vs Aston Villa

On many outings this season, Arsenal have repelled opponents and struck clinically to pile up the points, so balanced and secure is Arteta’s system.

But they emerged from Stamford Bridge last weekend with just a point after something of a slugfest, and the midweek win over Brentford has clearly taken something out of the Londoners, who battled tooth and nail against a well-oiled and energetic Aston Villa side but to no avail.

Up top, Mikel Merino has been an incredible moonlit success since arriving at the Emirates, with the midfield-turned-forward having scored four goals and supplied three assists when stepping up into the danger area this season. However, Unai Emery’s team marshalled him well, anonymous in the first half save for one blundered attempt to find the surging Bukayo Saka.

Viktor Gyokeres and Noni Madueke both changed Arsenal’s attacking dimensions in the second half, but neither enjoyed the most fruitful of appearances, with Gyokeres in particular struggling for service, albeit making his physicality and mobile presence known in Merino’s stead after the break.

For his part, Arteta showcased his shrewd and calculated in-game management by making a half-time change, which swiftly paid off, Leandro Trossard coming up trumps once again after Saka’s strike was deflected.

But the Spanish manager will be frustrated that one starting member failed to make the most of their opportunity, having drifted through the opening 45.

4/10 star produced his worst game for Arsenal

Arsenal have been a world-class unit this season, and they have been reinforced with some top talent this summer. Eberechi Eze is one of the arrivals, a superstar in the English game and a £67m signing from Crystal Palace. However, he wasn’t at his best against Aston Villa.

Let’s not forget, it was a matter of days ago that Arsenal informed Eze he was their Player of the Month for November, having bagged a hat-trick in the north London Derby and settled into his berth.

But, in spite of this, the England international still hasn’t struck a consistent vein of form in the final third, and his tough afternoon in the Midlands served as evidence that he needs to raise his game, having been such a fleet-footed and talismanic force for Oliver Glasner at Palace.

Against Villa, the 27-year-old flattered to deceive, with football.london even handing him a 4/10 match rating after an ineffectual and short-lived outing, hooked at the break for Trossard, who scored. In all likelihood, he failed to showcase any of his many qualities, and for that reason, probably endured his toughest game since joining.

Eberechi Eze vs Aston Villa
Match Stats	#
Minutes played	45′
Goals	0
Assists	0
Touches	13
Shots (on target)	0 (0)
Accurate passes	7/9 (78%)
Chances created	0
Dribbles	1/1
Ball recoveries	0
Tackles won	0/0
Duels won	2/5
Data via Sofascore

With Martin Odegaard fit once again, Eze has been forced into a wider berth. Could it be that he is at full throttle when creating and influencing from the middle? His pace lends itself to a wide role, but then so does his athleticism and physicality work well on the flank.

Eze is a passionate player. It is telling that his only goals in the Premier League this season have come against Crystal Palace, his former club, and Spurs in the derby, with Thomas Frank coming close to signing him before Arsenal swooped down.

Eze needs to channel his creativity and incisiveness in the box. He needs to iron out the wrinkles. But first, Arteta may want to relegate him to the bench, rekindling the fire to take that step up to the level he has shown he is capable of.

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Leeds United are now set to push to sign a Barcelona forward in the January transfer window, having already made persistent enquiries over a deal.

Leeds looking to bolster attacking options this winter

Earlier this season, Danny Murphy suggested Leeds’ lack of top-quality forwards could put them at real risk of relegation, saying: “I still think Leeds and Burnley will go.

“I think the biggest problem for Burnley and Leeds is firepower. I agree with what we talked about earlier. I think all the newly promoted sides doing well is great for the Premier League. I’d like to see them all stay up, actually. But I don’t think it’ll be the case.”

Since then, however, the Whites have displayed they have what it takes to cause some of the Premier League’s biggest clubs real problems, defeating Chelsea 3-1, before going on to draw 3-3 with Liverpool courtesy of a last-gasp Ao Tanaka equaliser.

That said, with Daniel Farke’s side still just two points above the relegation zone, they remain interested in improving their forward line during the January transfer window, and they have now made contact over a deal for Barcelona’s Roony Bardghji.

That is according to a report from Spain, which states the Whites have lodged persistent enquiries to sign the Barca forward on loan in the January transfer window, as they believe he would be perfectly suited to their style of play.

Leeds are unwilling to give up on securing the 20-year-old’s signature, despite his recent emergence as a first-team player for the La Liga club, and they are set to push for a January deal in the coming weeks.

Bardghji could play major role in helping Leeds avoid the drop

The Sweden international hasn’t featured particularly regularly so far this season, but he showed exactly what he’s capable of in Barca’s most recent La Liga match, scoring one goal and setting up another in the 5-3 triumph against Real Betis.

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It was an impressive all-round performance from the Kuwait-born forward, who completed two dribbles and won two duels, and Hansi Flick will be delighted he is now coming into his own in La Liga, having also previously put in some eye-catching displays for FC Copenhagen.

With Daniel James recently suffering a hamstring injury, and receiving criticism at times this season, it would be ideal to bring in a new forward in the upcoming transfer window, and the Barca ace would be a like-for-like replacement, given that his main position is right-wing.

As such, Leeds should definitely look to sign Bardghji, off the back of some impressive showings in both La Liga and the Champions League, grabbing an assist in Barca’s 6-1 victory over Olympiacos.

An EFL expert has been left “pretty surprised” at a Southampton manager claim he has heard from St Mary’s.

Southampton manager latest on Tonda Eckert

After parting ways with Will Still at the beginning of November, Sport Republic have been on the hunt for a new permanent Saints boss.

However, no manager has arrived in the two weeks since Still’s sacking, with interim boss Tonda Eckert recording successive Championship wins over QPR and Sheffield Wednesday.

Eckert has already come in for praise from Southampton star Finn Azaz, and as time has gone on, there has been more speculation over the 32-year-old landing the job on a full-time basis.

There have been claims that Eckert is set to be given the Southampton job permanently, whereas reports elsewhere have claimed he will get the next three Championship fixtures to increase his chances of landing the role.

Southampton’s next 3 Championship fixtures

Date

Charlton Athletic vs Southampton

22nd November

Southampton vs Leicester City

25th November

Millwall vs Southampton

29th November

Meanwhile, Southampton fan pundit Ray Hunt stated that supporters “want to see an experienced manager” come in.

“Sport Republic have appointed five permanent mangers in their three full seasons in charge. During that period, they have overseen two relegations from the Premier League, and one promotion with their only success, Russell Martin, but failed to give him the tools needed to succeed in the top flight.

“Moving forward, fans will want to see an experienced manager, who’s widely respected with a clear structure. We cannot repeat mistakes from the past. It is a huge task they simply have to get right. Take your time, give Tonda time in that interim, but ultimately make the right decision. The fans won’t tolerate another failure.”

Sport Republic appointing Eckert on a full-time basis would get pundits and fans talking, and it has already done just that.

Expert reacts to Southampton claim on appointing Eckert

Reacting to reports of Southampton looking set to give Eckert the permanent job, EFL expert George Elek admitted to the Not The Top 20 Podcast that he would be “pretty surprised” if that materialises.

Eckert, who plays a 3-4-2-1 system, is on course to be in the dugout at The Valley unless something drastic happens, and he’s already surpassed Still in winning back-to-back second tier games.

Their own Clement: Southampton could hire "world-class" Eckert replacement

There has been a twist regarding Martin O’Neill’s stay as Celtic interim manager involving his relationship with Dermot Desmond.

O'Neill guides Celtic into League Cup final with win over Rangers

The Hoops have enjoyed a resurgence following O’Neill’s return to Glasgow on a short term basis following Brendan Rodgers’ Parkhead departure.

Celtic won 4-0 in O’Neill’s first game back against Falkirk in the Scottish Premiership and then, days later, got the better of rivals Rangers in the Scottish League Cup.

Goals from Johnny Kenny, Callum McGregor and Callum Osmand saw the Hoops win 3-1 in extra time at Hampden Park, booking their spot in the final against St Mirren.

O’Neill’s attention now turns to a Europa League trip to take on FC Midtjylland before a home fixture against Kilmarnock prior to the international break.

Speaking to talkSPORT reporter Jim White, O’Neill admitted he had to return to London to retrieve his passport ahead of the trip to Denmark. The Hoops caretaker was also asked if shareholder Desmond had more of a ‘persuasive tone’ when they spoke about a longer stay in Glasgow, to which O’Neill said:

O'Neill now willing to stay on as Celtic manager

It has now been reported by 67 Hail Hail that O’Neill is in fact ‘willing to stay on as Celtic manager until the end of the season’.

Despite saying on multiple occasions that his role would be short term, the Irishman is open to remaining at Parkhead until 2026, and that is seen as a ‘genuine possibility’.

67 Hail Hail add that O’Neill’s relationship with Desmond ‘is believed to be a crucial part of this idea, with Celtic willing to take their time to find the long-term replacement’.

Martin O’Neill’s record as permanent Celtic manager

Games

266

Wins

200

Draws

26

Losses

40

Trophies

7

Players used

56

As long as results remain positive under O’Neill, then the Hoops will surely be open to the idea of taking their time to find a long-term replacement.

The 73-year-old has steadied the ship at Parkhead, and his next task is to take Celtic higher up the Europa League table. Another three points in the Scottish Premiership will keep the pressure on Hearts, and by the looks of it, there is a real chance we may see the 4-2-3-1 manager in the Celtic dugout until 2026.

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انتهت مواجهة منتخب مصر أمام فنزويلا، التي أقيمت اليوم الجمعة ضمن الجولة الثانية من منافسات المجموعة الخامسة في كأس العالم تحت 17 عامًا المقام في قطر، بالتعادل الإيجابي بهدف لكل فريق.

افتتح منتخب فنزويلا التسجيل مبكرًا في الدقيقة 18 عبر ماركوس مايتان، الذي أسكن الكرة الشباك برأسية رائعة من عرضية ركنية من الجانب الأيمن.

طالع.. فيديو | حمزة عبد الكريم يسجل هدف تعادل مصر أمام فنزويلا في كأس العالم

ورد منتخب مصر بهدف التعادل في الدقيقة 54، بعد تمريرة عرضية داخل منطقة الجزاء حولها حمزة عبد الكريم إلى الشباك، مانحًا فريقه نقطة ثمينة.

وشهدت المباراة موقفًا مثيرًا، إذ أشهر الحكم بطاقة حمراء في وجه محمد حمد لاعب منتخب مصر في الدقيقة 60 بعد تدخل قوي على لاعب فنزويلا، ليكمل المنتخب المصري المباراة بـ10 لاعبين.

بهذا التعادل، رفع منتخب مصر رصيده إلى 4 نقاط في صدارة ترتيب المجموعة بالتساوي مع فنزويلا، فيما تأتي إنجلترا في المركز الثالث برصيد 3 نقاط، وهايتي في المركز الأخير بدون رصيد من النقاط.

ويلتقي منتخب مصر نظيره إنجلترا في الجولة الثالثة والأخيرة من دور المجموعات حيث يكفيه التعادل من أجل التأهل إلى الدور التالي. موعد مباراة مصر القادمة في كأس العالم للناشئين

وتقام مباراة مصر وإنجلترا تحت 17 عاما يوم الأحد الإثنين 10 نوفمبر الجاري في الساعة السادسة إلا ربع مساءً بتوقيت القاهرة.

Manchester United edged closer to finally winning five successive games in the Premier League when they won their third in a row against Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday.

Bryan Mbeumo scored two of the club’s four goals in the game, whilst Casemiro got on the scoresheet and Matheus Cunha scored his first goal for United since his move from Wolves.

Interestingly, the Red Devils were up against a player they were reportedly willing to smash their club transfer record on, Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba.

The Premier League giants were reportedly keen on a deal for the defensive midfielder during the summer transfer window, before INEOS decided against a big-money move for him.

Baleba, however, was substituted in the 59th minute of the match, having failed to provide any goals or assists, whilst Casemiro, his direct opponent, scored and provided an assist.

The Brighton midfielder’s performance on Saturday, coupled with his displays throughout this season, may make the club think twice about any potential move for him in a future transfer window.

Why Man Utd may not make a move for Carlos Baleba

The left-footed star’s drop-off in form from last season to the current campaign is cause for concern at Old Trafford, as it shows a lack of consistency in his game.

In the 2024/25 campaign, per Sofascore, Baleba won 55% of his duels and made 3.7 tackles and interceptions per game across 34 appearances in the Premier League for Brighton.

The 21-year-old midfield talent also scored three goals and provided one assist for his club, with his performances leading to interest from Manchester United in the summer.

Unfortunately, though, Baleba has been unable to kick on and continue his fine form on the pitch in the Premier League this season, after he did not get a move away from Brighton during the transfer window.

The United target’s defensive numbers are down across the board through the opening nine matches of the 2025/26 campaign, which may be a red flag for the Red Devils recruitment department.

Appearances

34

9

Goals

3

0

Tackles + interceptions per game

3.7

2.1

Clearances per game

1.3

0.9

Duels won per game

5.8

3.1

Ground duel success rate

55%

41%

Fouls made per game

1.2

1.4

As you can see in the table above, Baleba’s form has dropped off a cliff this term, from a defensive perspective, as he has gone from being dominant in duels to being dominated by opposition players.

This is why Ruben Amorim and INEOS may be hesitant to make a club-record move, of more than £89m, for the Brighton man in January or next summer, as his current performance level shows that he has not been consistently impressive.

Man Utd preparing move for LaLiga midfielder

According to a report in Spain, via Stretty News, Manchester United are interested in a deal to sign Real Madrid defensive midfielder Eduardo Camavinga in the upcoming January window.

The report claims that the Red Devils are preparing to make a move for the France international to bolster their options in the middle of the park next year.

Transfer Focus

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

It adds that the Premier League giants have made Camavinga a ‘top priority’ target and that they are prepared to offer around £70m to secure his signature from the Spanish side.

The outlet reveals, though, that Real Madrid are not in any rush to cash in on the former Rennes star, and that it would potentially take more than £70m to convince them to part ways with the midfielder.

It now remains to be seen whether or not the Red Devils will be able to do enough to convince Real Madrid to sell Camavinga, or if they will be able to convince the player to make the move to Old Trafford, with no European football on offer this season.

Why Man Utd should sign Eduardo Camavinga

Manchester United should press ahead with a deal for the French central midfielder because he would be an upgrade on Baleba, as an even better signing for Amorim’s midfield.

The left-footed star, who scored his first goal in the Champions League last month, provided a timely reminder of his quality in the El Clásico at the weekend, winning eight of his 12 duels and completing all three of his attempted dribbles in a 2-1 win over Barcelona, per Sofascore.

Camavinga, who has been utilised at left-back, centre-back, central midfield, and defensive midfield by Real, has shown more consistency and quality in his performances than Baleba over the past 365 days in all competitions.

The chart above shows that the France international has outperformed the Brighton star in a host of key midfield statistics both in and out of possession in the past year.

On top of that, the £70m-rated midfielder, who was described as a “duel-monster” by analyst Raj Chohan, has outperformed Baleba at league level so far in the 2025/26 campaign.

Appearances

6

9

Sofascore rating

6.96

6.53

Tackles made per game

1.8

1.0

Dribbled past per game

0.7x

0.7x

Duels won per game

4.3

3.1

Ground duel success rate

74%

41%

Fouls per game

0.3

1.4

As you can see in the table above, the Real Madrid star has been significantly more effective as a defensive presence in the middle of the park at league level this season, winning 1.2 more duels per game and winning a far higher percentage of his ground duels.

Perhaps the most telling statistic is their respective fouls made per game. Camavinga rarely trips up and has to foul opposition players, whilst Baleba is committing over one foul per match on average, which shows that he is losing duels and having to resort to fouls to break up play.

Overall, Camavinga appears to be the better option out of the two, as evidenced by both his form this season and over the past 365 days, as a defensive midfield signing for United in the January transfer window.

This is why INEOS should forget about a move for Baleba and concentrate their efforts on attempting to sign the Real Madrid midfielder next year.

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MatériaMais Notícias

O confronto entre Flamengo e Bahia gerou polêmicas. Na segunda derrota de Rogério Ceni em três partidas no comando do Tricolor de Aço, sua equipe teve um jogador expulso nos minutos iniciais do segundo tempo, o que “interferiu diretamente no resultado” segundo o técnico. Ainda, o gol da vitória do Rubro-Negro no Maracanã foi marcado por Pedro, de pênalti. Ceni entendeu que a marcação da penalidade foi um lance interpretativo.

RelacionadasFora de CampoNeto ironiza arbitragem após Flamengo x Bahia: ‘Tudo é pênalti para eles’Fora de Campo30/09/2023BahiaJuba lamenta derrota do Bahia para o Flamengo e justifica gol perdido: ‘Não estava na perna boa’Bahia30/09/2023VídeoVÍDEO: melhores momentos da vitória do Flamengo sobre o Bahia pelo BrasileirãoVídeo30/09/2023

+ Veja tabela e classificação do Brasileirão-2023 clicando aqui

– Eu não gosto muito de falar sobre arbitragem em entrevistas pós-jogo. Acho que isso é uma parte para o clube analisar. Em relação ao lance da expulsão, acho que é claro que é uma jogada de dentro para fora, ele não está indo em direção ao gol. O árbitro analisa certo, dá amarelo, depois o VAR interfere e dá o cartão vermelho – disse Ceni em entrevista coletiva após a derrota do Bahia por 1 a 0.

+ Você quer trabalhar no seu clube do coração? Matricule-se no curso Gestor de Futebol e entenda como!

– Foi o lance principal do jogo, nos deixa com um jogador a menos, nos tira a possibilidade de estar mais próximo do gol. Acho que houve um erro grotesco nesse sentido.

Na jogada em que o árbitro Sávio Pereira Sampaio assinalou pênalti para o Flamengo, aos 14 minutos do segundo tempo, Bruno Henrique foi derrubado por Gilberto dentro da área, e o VAR não chamou o juiz para a revisão. A marcação da penalidade gerou bastante reclamação dos tricolores. Para Ceni, o lance foi interpretativo.

– O pênalti foi muito interpretativo. Eu vejo um toque muito sutil, mas não vou entrar nessa discussão. O da expulsão é um lance claro de um jogador que vai para fora e não para a direção do gol. Acho que o árbitro, o conjunto VAR e árbitro, interfere direto no resultado – concluiu o treinador.

+ Comentarista alfineta Rogério Ceni após derrota: ‘Eterno freguês do Flamengo’

Em três jogos como técnico do Bahia, Rogério Ceni soma duas derrotas e uma vitória. Com o resultado, o Tricolor de Aço estacionou nos 25 pontos e se manteve na 17ª colocação do Brasileirão, sendo o primeiro time dentro da zona de rebaixamento. Na próxima rodada, a equipe de Ceni vai até a Serrinha enfrentar o Goiás, no sábado (7), às 16h (de Brasília).

Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies has revealed that he is nearing a return to action after a gruelling ACL injury that sidelined him for over six months. The Canadian left-back, who tore his Anterior Cruciate Ligament in March while on international duty, has admitted the recovery process has been “mentally difficult” but insists “the hardest part is behind me” as he inches closer to full fitness.

Davies close to return after ACL injury

Davies has offered a positive update on his recovery from the devastating ACL injury earlier this year. The Bayern Munich and Canada star tore his anterior cruciate ligament and suffered cartilage damage in his right knee during March’s CONCACAF Nations League third-place playoff against the United States. The 23-year-old underwent surgery and was expected to be sidelined for six to eight months, missing a significant portion of Bayern’s campaign.

Davies has since returned to individual running and light training sessions at Bayern’s Sabener Strasse base. “I’m running and training well. I just need to put a bit more muscle mass on my right leg,” he said, while expressing optimism about his steady progress. “When the doctors told me after the injury how long it might take, I thought, ‘Oh wow, it’s going to be a long journey.’ But now everything is looking good.”

The left-back also revealed that he’s focused on returning safely rather than rushing back to the pitch. “There’s no point letting myself get down, complaining, or feeling sorry for myself. Injuries like these are part of the sport. The only thing I can do now is fight my way back — not as quickly, but as safely as possible.”

AdvertisementGetty Images SportDavies opens up on rehabilitation and support

For Davies, the recovery has been about more than just physical rehabilitation — it has tested his mental strength and patience. He admitted that the process has been “more difficult mentally than physically,” reflecting on the psychological toll of long-term injury recovery. “The muscles will come back on their own,” he explained. “But not knowing how long you’ll be out and whether you’ll be able to do certain things – that’s tough.”

Davies described how repetitive rehab routines and uncertainty have challenged both his body and mind. “In rehab, you work on different areas over and over again, which puts a strain on your mind and challenges your body,” he said. “Sometimes your body says, ‘I don’t want to do this anymore.’ Then you have to be mentally strong. That’s the only way to make it. If you don’t do it yourself, no one else will.”

He also credited the presence of teammates Jamal Musiala and Hiroki Ito, who were going through their own recovery programs, for helping him stay positive. “We see each other every day and try to keep each other motivated. It helps when you have good people around you.” For Davies, this mutual support system has made a difficult journey more bearable — and reinforced his determination to come back stronger.

Bayern to closely monitor Davies return from injury

Since undergoing surgery, Davies’ rehabilitation has followed a gradual, closely monitored plan designed by Bayern Munich’s medical and conditioning staff. The early stages involved stability and strength exercises before progressing to controlled movement and agility work. By early October — roughly 200 days after his injury — the Canadian had advanced to light ball work and jogging, marking a significant milestone in his comeback.

Throughout the process, Bayern’s medical team have emphasised patience, ensuring that Davies rebuilds the muscle strength in his right leg without compromising long-term health. The Bavarians are acutely aware of the risks associated with rushing an ACL return, particularly for a player whose explosive speed and balance are crucial to his game. Davies’ commitment to following every stage meticulously has drawn praise within the club for his professionalism and focus.

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Getty Images Sport'Hardest part' of Davies rehab 'behind him'

While Bayern Munich have not provided a confirmed return date, there is optimism that Davies could rejoin full team training before the end of the year. His reintegration is expected to be gradual, with a focus on controlled minutes before reclaiming his role as Bayern’s first-choice left-back. Both player and club are aligned in prioritising long-term stability over short-term gains.

Davies’ words reflect that balance between caution and excitement. “The future looks good; the hardest part of rehab is now behind me,” he said. “I’m excited and looking forward to rejoining the team and playing the sport I love. I can hardly wait to be on the pitch with my teammates, to help them win games, and to fight for our goals.”

أعلن روبن أموريم، مدرب مانشستر يونايتد، عن تشكيل فريقه لمواجهة ليفربول، اليوم الأحد، في الدوري الإنجليزي الممتاز.

ويحل مانشستر يونايتد ضيفًا على ليفربول في ملعب “أنفيلد”، في قمة الجولة الثامنة من بطولة الدوري الإنجليزي الممتاز، في لقاء ينتظره عشاق الساحرة المستديرة.

ويسعى مانشستر يونايتد إلى تحقيق الفوز على ليفربول وصنع الحدث، بعد البداية السيئة للشياطين الحمر خلال هذا الموسم قبل الاستفاقة والانتصار على سندرلاند في الجولة الماضية 2-0.

اقرأ أيضًا.. برونو فيرنانديز يتطلع إلى إنجاز شخصي قبل قمة مانشستر يونايتد وليفربول

وعلى الجانب الآخر يتطلع ليفربول لتحقيق الانتصار من أجل استعادة التوازن، بعد الهزيمة في ثلاث مباريات متتالية، اثنتان منها في الدوري الإنجليزي الممتاز أمام كريستال بالاس وتشيلسي، وواحدة في دوري أبطال أوروبا ضد جالطة سراي.

وشهد تشكيل مانشستر يونايتد اعتماد أموريم على برونو فيرنانديز، حيث يعول المدرب البرتغالي على مواطنه لمنح الشياطين الحمر الانتصار اليوم.

كما عاد بينجامين سيسكو ليتواجد كبديل مع مانشستر يونايتد، بالرغم من تألقه ضد سندرلاند وحصوله على جائزة رجل المباراة وتسجيله لهدف. تشكيل مانشستر يونايتد اليوم أمام ليفربول في الدوري الإنجليزي

حراسة المرمى: سيني لامنس.

خط الدفاع: ليني يورو، لوك شاو، ماتياس دي ليخت.

خط الوسط: ديوجو دالوت، عماد ديالو، برونو فيرنانديز ، كاسيميرو.

الهجوم: ماسون ماونت، بريان مبيومو، ماتيوس كونها.

ويجلس على دكة بدلاء مانشستر يونايتد كل من: “ألتاي بايندير، بينجامين سيسكو، هاري ماجواير، باتريك دورجو، مانويل أوجارتي، كوبي ماينو، جوشوا زيركيزي، آيدن هيفن، دييجو ليون”.

Sunderland are working hard to make further additions to their squad before the summer transfer window officially slams shut at 7 pm on Monday.

Sky Sports journalist Keith Downie claims that the Black Cats are ‘hopeful’ of agreeing a deal to bring Bologna central defender Jhon Lucumi to the Stadium of Light before the deadline.

The reporter reveals that the club placed a £24m bid in for the Colombia international earlier this week, and they are now looking to press ahead with a move to snap him up.

Lucumi played 32 times in the Serie A and seven times in the Champions League for Bologna last season, so he could arrive as an experienced option for Regis Le Bris to call upon in his backline.

Sunderland eyeing late deal for EFL star

The Black Cats may not be done strengthening their defence even if they are able to land a deal for the Colombian titan, though, as they are also looking at a new goalkeeper.

Transfer Focus

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

According to EFL Analysis, Sunderland are interested in a deal to sign Stoke City goalkeeper Viktor Johansson before Monday’s transfer deadline.

The report claims that Le Bris wants to bring in another goalkeeper to compete with Anthony Patterson and Robin Roefs in the Premier League this season, and has identified the Sweden international as a target.

It states that Potters boss Mark Robins has told the club not to sell Johansson before the end of the window, but it remains to be seen whether or not he will get his wish as Sunderland plot a last-gasp move for the colossus.

If the Black Cats can convince Stoke to part ways with their number one, Le Bris could have an even better signing than Lucumi on his hands.

Why Johansson would be a better signing than Lucumi for Sunderland

Lucumi won 60% of his duels in 32 appearances in the Serie A last season, per Sofascore, and could be a dominant defensive force for the club, but he is also prone to errors.

The 27-year-old centre-back made four errors that led to shots, three errors that led to goals, conceded one penalty, and was sent off once. No Sunderland player made as many errors as all of those combined in the 2024/25 Championship, per Sofascore.

That is a bit of a concern because it suggests that Sunderland will be signing a player who could cost them a lot of points through individual errors if those mistakes come at key moments in games.

Johansson, however, is a defensive presence, albeit in a very different position, who would not be as much of a potential liability for Sunderland if they decided to make him their number one.

Appearances

46

3

Save percentage

71%

78%

Clean sheets

14

1

Goals prevented

+10.94

+0.77

Error led to goal

1

0

Penalties committed

0

0

Red cards

0

0

As you can see in the table above, the Swedish star very rarely makes any significant errors and is an unbelievable shot-stopper, preventing nearly 12 more goals than xG expected him to since the start of last season.

For context, Roefs prevented 5.20 goals in the Eredivisie last season and is on -0.05 in his first two Premier League matches, which suggests that Johansson may come in as an upgrade on him as a shot-stopper.

The Stoke star, who has been hailed as “outstanding” by Robins, is an incredibly reliable goalkeeper who can pull off the extraordinary to bail his team out time and time again, as shown by his amazing statistics.

This is why he could be an even better signing than Lucumi, who may be prone to errors and significant mistakes, for Sunderland if they can get a last-gasp deal over the line before the deadline.

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