Tag Futebol

A new season will soon dawn, and for Arsenal, it’s the same objective: challenge for and win the Premier League.

Having finished second for three successive campaigns, Mikel Arteta knows that this year is a big one, with the Gunners in desperate need of crowning this resurgent era with silverware.

But it’s coming together, no doubt. Bukayo Saka is fully fit once again after an injury-hit 2024/25 season; Viktor Gyokeres has signed for £63.5m to end the interminable search for a focal striker.

But a first-class left-sided forward could still be added to complete the set. Not since the days of Alexis Sanchez have Arsenal had a world-class weapon on that wing.

But it’s beginning to look like such a signing could be on the cards.

Arsenal lining up new winger

Many names have been bandied about this summer, but Arsenal are reaching a point in their transfer window in which the fog will start to clear and Arteta’s final market plans will crystallise.

Fabrizio Romano claimed at the weekend that, with Gyokeres now part of the crew, the Londoners are “working on outgoings as priority” before addressing the left flank, which could do with a new part.

But when they are ready to pounce, it looks like Arsenal have lined up Eberechi Eze as their new man.

According to Caught Offside, the Gunners should be wary of rising interest from Manchester’s biggest clubs for the Three Lions star, though it’s stressed that Arsenal remain firm favourites after their sustained efforts over the past weeks.

Previous reports have revealed that Arsenal have seen an opening bid partially accepted. To be more specific, a fixed £30m fee has been agreed between the clubs, though the structure of the remainder of Eze’s £68m release clause remains unsettled.

Why Arsenal should sign Eberechi Eze

There are many reasons why Eze would be a fantastic addition to Arteta’s Arsenal squad.

The 27-year-old, first and foremost, is an electric and versatile attacking midfielder, having gone from strength to strength across his five years at Selhurst Park, culminating his journey with the winning goal in last season’s FA Cup final against Manchester City.

Eze’s 25-goal contribution campaign underscores his ability to provide more than just a showreel style of play. He’s increasingly potent in the final third, capable of scoring goals himself and focusing on his creativity to aid the likes of Gyokeres.

As per FBref, he ranked among the top 6% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues last year for shots taken, the top 11% for shot-creating actions and the top 10% for successful take-ons per 90.

He’s quite the exciting player, all right, praised for his “special” talents by BBC Sports’ Phil McNulty.

In fact, Eze could prove to bring a bit of flair and gusto to this Arsenal side in a way that would bear a likeness to that man Sanchez, who scored 80 goals and supplied 44 assists across 166 games for the Gunners, way back when.

Obviously, Eze isn’t as good as the 36-year-old was when in his Premier League prime. It wouldn’t be a bad take to claim that he was the best player in England at the height of his success at the Emirates.

Premier League – Sanchez (16/17) & Eze (24/25)

Stats (* per game)

Sanchez

Eze

Matches (starts)

38 (36)

34 (31)

Goals

24

8

Assists

10

8

Shots (on target)*

3.4 (1.3)

3.0 (0.9)

Touches*

65.0

46.6

Pass completion

74%

82%

Big chances created

10

11

Key passes

2.2

1.7

Dribbles*

2.8

2.0

Tackles + interceptions*

2.0

1.4

Duels won*

6.4

4.8

Data via Sofascore

Sanchez really was on another level in his Arsenal heyday, wasn’t he? Eze, obviously, isn’t at that level, but he shares many attributes with the thrill-seeking Chilean, and it’s something Arteta could use to shape him into a world-beater at the present day.

Bear in mind, furthermore, that we’re contrasting Sanchez’s finest season in the Premier League against Eze’s latest with Crystal Palace. It wouldn’t be brazen to suggest that Eze’s most fruitful days lie in front of him, should he sign for Arsenal this summer.

Thus, it’s rather exciting to see how complete, tenacious, talented the England international is at this stage of his career, refined and built into the elite player he is, but still open to taking the next step and reaching the pinnacle.

Similarities can be traced from here to Sanchez, who established himself as a high-class forward at Barcelona but lingered in the shadow of one of football’s greatest-ever frontlines: MSN.

At Arsenal, he bloomed into an iconic frontman, hailed by Arsene Wenger as being a truly “exceptional footballer”.

He wasn’t a spring chicken when he first arrived in the English capital. The South American chose Arsenal despite the vested interest of Liverpool, penned a deal worth £35m in July 2014. He was 25 at the time.

Given that the likes of Manchester City and Manchester United are interested in Eze right now, it seems Arsenal may be primed to pull off another statement signing, reeling in a player who has his heart set on north London red.

Eze is in his prime, and he’s got a taste for trophies that could be used to spearhead this project further, up and up past these years of fighting for honours and onto the biggest, grandest stage there is: winning the Premier League, sealing the Champions League, and then defending these prizes which the talented squad so desperately desire.

Given the quality of the current Arsenal attacking crop, it feels crucial that Arteta and Berta come together to get this one wrapped up.

Related Better than Trossard & Martinelli: Arsenal chasing £56m Eze alternative

Arsenal are looking to sign a creative player before the start of the 2025/26 campaign.

Posts ByAngus Sinclair Jul 28, 2025

واصل الفريق الأول لكرة القدم بالنادي الأهلي تدريباته، استعدادًا لمباراة إنبي، التي تجمعهما، يوم الأحد المقبل، ضمن منافسات الأسبوع ‏السادس من بطولة الدوري المصري الممتاز.‏

وأكد وليد صلاح الدين، مدير الكرة، على انتظام مجموعة اللاعبين الدوليين، عقب نهاية فترة التوقف الدولي، وخضوعهم لتدريبات استشفائية، على هامش مران اليوم.‏

طالع.. خاص | بعد قرار الأهلي.. موقف الاتحاد الليبي من ضم حسين الشحات

وعقد عماد النحاس، القائم بأعمال المدير الفني للفريق، محاضرة للاعبين، لشرح العديد من الجوانب المتعلقة بالاستعداد للمرحلة المقبلة، ‏ومباراة إنبي على وجه الخصوص.‏

وأدى اللاعبون مجموعة من الفقرات البدنية، قبل الانتقال إلى التدريبات التخصصية، في ضوء برنامج الإعداد الذي وضعه الجهاز ‏الفني لخوض المباريات القادمة.‏

وواصل كريم فؤاد ومحمد شكري أداء تدريبات تأهيلية في ضوء البرنامج العلاجي، فيما أدى أشرف داري تدريبات بدنية في الملعب، قبل أن يستكمل ‏برنامجه العلاجي في “الجيم”. ‏

How are Newcastle United going to fare next season? Around the beginning of the 2024/25 campaign, the skyrocketing ascent under Eddie Howe’s wing had been stunted by a disappointing transfer window, following failure to qualify for European football.

But United marched back into the Champions League despite the setbacks, finishing fifth in the Premier League. Moreover, Howe led his team to glory, to the Carabao Cup.

Now, the focus is on building, particularly towards a move for Anthony Elanga.

Newcastle in talks for new forward

Elanga has been the subject of a rejected £45m offer, Newcastle’s second in as many summers, and while Nottingham Forest don’t want to play ball, redoubled efforts might just seal the Sweden star’s signature.

Such a player is duly needed. Miguel Almiron’s winter flight over the pond has left Jacob Murphy somewhat isolated on the right. Elanga will add athletic quality and widen the dimensions of Howe’s frontline. So could Joao Pedro.

Transfer Focus

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

Indeed, as per GIVEMESPORT, Newcastle remain intent on signing Brighton & Hove Albion star Pedro, who is anticipated to leave the AMEX this summer.

Saying that, Tony Bloom isn’t likely to budge on his £60m valuation, the 23-year-old being one of the most talented rising stars in the Premier League, and eyed by Chelsea besides.

However, Newcastle have been engaged in productive talks with the south coasters and could move to the advanced stages soon. Previously, the Toon have been regarded as favourites for Pedro.

What Joao Pedro would bring to Newcastle

Newcastle plan to open contract talks with Alexander Isak as interest mounts in the world-class striker’s services. United’s £200m price tag, frustratingly, hasn’t dissuaded Liverpool and the like from keeping on Isak’s trail.

But the nine is not expected to be going anywhere this year, and Pedro would arrive offering competition and the prospect of a new attacking combination from his shadow or out on the left.

The Brazilian forward, who joined Brighton from Watford for around £30m two years ago, has symmetrically posted 30 goals and ten assists across 70 matches.

Centre-forward

119

34

18

Left winger

40

14

0

Attacking midfield

27

11

1

Right winger

5

0

0

Principally a central player, Pedro is swift and purposeful on the ball, endowed with some of that Seleção style too, hailed by Bundesliga commentator Kevin Hatchard for his “magical” ability on the ball.

Elanga, too, is good on the ball, but he’s also absolutely rapid – the third fastest player in the league as it happens – and he could use his pace to latch onto the technical range that Pedro expands his team’s capacity with.

The fastest & slowest players in the Premier League (2024/25)

As per FBref, the Seagulls star ranks among the top 1% of forwards across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for assists, the top 17% for passes attempted and shot-creating actions, and the top 12% for progressive passes per 90.

He also created 11 big chances in the Premier League last year, as per Sofascore, and averaged 1.1 dribbles and just shy of five duels per game.

Over at the City Ground, Elanga has coined himself “one of the fastest players in the Premier League”, and no doubt would marry such rapidity with an increased potency in Howe’s system, having impressed with six goals and 11 assists for Forest last year.

If Newcastle can strengthen their ranks with both of these Prem-proven stars, there’s no question that Howe will have the tools to fashion even greater success next year and beyond.

Dream Pedro alternative: Newcastle advancing move for £40m "goal machine"

Newcastle plan to make a series of attacking signings this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 25, 2025

Robin van Persie is a striker who managed to hugely impress at Manchester United, leading the club to their last Premier League title back in the 2012/13 campaign.

The Dutchman controversially left rivals Arsenal to join the Red Devils in a £24m deal, a move that would be a massive bargain given his form in front of goal at Old Trafford.

He registered 30 goals in his 48 appearances across all competitions, 26 of which came in the league, subsequently claiming the division’s Golden Boot award.

Van Persie’s talents with the Red Devils are there for all to see, with current boss Ruben Amorim potentially wishing he had his own version of the talisman in the present day.

However, the 40-year-old may be able to land just that this summer, with the manager already laying the foundations for potential additions within the final third.

The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer

With Rasmus Hojlund touted with a move away from United this summer, it’s no surprise to see various names linked with a summer move to join Amorim’s men.

The likes of Moise Kean, Hugo Ekitiké and Benjamin Sesko have all been mentioned as potential additions, as the hierarchy look to add a new dimension to their attack.

However, another name has entered the mix in the form of Dušan Vlahović, with the Juventus talisman set to depart the Italian club this summer, according to GIVEMESPORT.

They claim that United will be offered the opportunity to land the Serbian international for a fee in the region of £20m this summer, with the attacker demanding £200k-per-week.

It also states that the 25-year-old is extremely keen on a move to the Premier League this window, after scoring 10 goals in just 21 league starts this campaign.

Why Vlahovic could be the perfect Gyokeres alternative for United

Viktor Gyokeres is another striker who has been hugely touted with a move to join United this summer, unsurprisingly so given his tally of 54 goals in all competitions this season.

The Swede has also been subject to huge interest from Arsenal, with the pair battling it out for his signature ahead of the reopening of the window next week.

However, any deal would likely cost the Red Devils hierarchy a pretty penny, with Sporting CP demanding a fee in the region of £70m to part ways with the 27-year-old this window.

Such a fee could lead to a move to Vlahovic becoming the main target, given the difference in fee, offering a cheaper alternative who could follow in Van Persie’s footsteps.

The Serbian, who’s been labelled “incredible” by Statman Dave, possesses a similar skillset, with a powerful strike off his stronger left foot – also being able to play off the shoulder, similarly to the Dutchman.

He could also provide a cheaper yet effective option than Gyokeres, managing to produce some impressive figures in numerous key areas despite the difference in fee.

Vlahovic has registered 1.5 shots on target per 90 in Serie A this campaign, showcasing the accuracy that he possesses when finding himself in front of goal within the final third.

Games played

29

Goals scored

10

Shots on target

1.5

Touches in opposition box

6.7

Aerials won

2.1

Aerial success

48%

Take-on success

1.4

Progressive carries

1.4

He also managed to win 48% of the aerials he’s contested, whilst registering 6.7 touches in the opposition’s box per 90 – handing Amorim a fox in the box option at Old Trafford.

£20m is a bargain in today’s market, especially for a talent like the 25-year-old, with such a deal likely to allow for a potential profit down the line in years to come.

Whilst Gyokeres may be many supporters’ first choice, a move for Vlahovic shouldn’t be looked past, with the Serbian having all the tools to follow in Van Persie’s footsteps at United.

Amorim's own Wirtz: Man Utd lead race to sign "sensational" £70m star

Manchester United appear to be making huge moves with a deal for one talent this summer.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 12, 2025

Arsenal hold a serious belief that they’ve now signed a “world-class” player for Mikel Arteta ahead of next season, and they’re behaving like it is a done deal behind-the-scenes.

Arsenal's main transfer plans for this summer

Buoyed by the arrival of new sporting director Andrea Berta, Arteta has already admitted that Arsenal are set for a “big” summer transfer window after the Italian’s appointment.

Arsenal demand major Thomas Partey concession in talks over new deal

The Ghanaian has arguably enjoyed his best campaign at Arsenal.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 25, 2025

A host of incomings across multiple areas of the squad are anticipated ahead of what is expected to be a busy debut window for Berta, with GiveMeSport recently reporting that £300 million could be spent on seven major signings.

As per GMS, Arsenal are believed to be prioritising a new second-choice goalkeeper to replace Neto, a full-back, new midfielder, left-winger, right-winger and striker. Kieran Tierney is off to Celtic, while Oleksandr Zinchenko is expected to be sold after falling down Arteta’s pecking order.

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

Newcastle United (home)

May 18th

Southampton (away)

May 25th

While Thomas Partey is in talks to extend his Arsenal contract, Jorginho remains likely to depart when his contract expires, meaning the addition of a centre-midfielder is still pretty imperative before 2025/2026.

Meanwhile, Leandro Trossard’s long-term future is uncertain, as his contract expires in 2026, with Arsenal arguably in need of another winger who can provide Arteta with a quality alternative to the likes of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.

Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz’s long-term injuries have also emphasised the need for Arsenal to finally sign a prolific striker, so there is plenty to do for Berta. Indeed, Arteta confirmed last week that he wants Arsenal to bring more strength and depth into the squad, sending a subtle message to his director.

“Squad quality and availability. Without those two, we cannot compete in four competitions,” said Arteta on his Arsenal transfer wish.

“At this level, especially in this country, it’s impossible. The higher the quality, the higher the availability, the more chances, probability you have. After you have to do it. But the probability goes high.”

Arsenal "internally" behaving like Martin Zubimendi deal is "done"

One top target for Arsenal, as per multiple reports, is Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.

They’ve been in negotiations over the Spain international’s acquisition for quite some time, with The Mail first reporting advanced pre-summer talks in January. Since then, the consensus has been that Arsenal are confident they can sign Zubimendi before June, while Marca journalist Juan Castro reported this week that an agreement appears to be struck already.

Now, the reliable David Ornstein has somewhat backed up Castro’s claim, stating that Arsenal are “internally” behaving like Zubimendi is a “done deal”.

This interesting update from a very credible source should fill supporters with confidence, as the feeling within N5 appears to be that it is inevitable the 26-year-old will finally make his long-awaited move to England, just a year after he publicly rejected Liverpool’s advances.

Called a “world-class” player by Tierney, during their time together at Sociedad, Zubimendi has been likened to Balon d’Or winner Rodri and played a key role for Spain in their Euro 2024 final triumph against England.

The La Liga mainstay is indispensable for his boyhood club, but it appears he’ll soon be waving goodbye if all goes to plan.

Nottingham Forest could now look to hijack a rival Premier League club’s move for an “unbelievable” player, according to transfer expert Graeme Bailey.

Forest's summer transfer plans taking shape

Forest still have plenty to play for this season, with Champions League qualification still very much on the cards despite the 2-1 defeat against Aston Villa last weekend, while they will also have dreams of winning the FA Cup.

However, with the summer transfer window edging ever closer, it is important Nuno begins to lay the groundwork ahead of next season, and the manager appears to be particularly keen on signing a new striker.

Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, AFC Bournemouth’s Evanilson, and Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Matheus Cunha are some of the biggest names on the shortlist, with Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin also emerging as an option in recent days.

Nottingham Forest very keen on signing £26m USA international this summer

The Tricky Trees have set their sights on a midfielder, who is now likely to leave his club this summer.

By
Dominic Lund

Apr 8, 2025

Bolstering his attacking options appears to be a priority for Nuno, but there have also been suggestions the manager could look to bring in a new goalkeeper this summer, with replacements being eyed for Matz Sels, despite his impressive form.

Southampton goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale is one of the names on the shortlist, with the 26-year-old set to be available for £25m, now the Saints’ relegation from the Premier League has been confirmed.

Speaking to Nottingham Forest News, transfer expert Bailey has now confirmed Burnley’s James Trafford is also of interest to the Trickly Trees, saying: “They have been delighted with how Sels has performed, he has been superb but I know they are looking at the market.

“There are some very good goalkeepers going to be available – Aaron Ramsdale, James Trafford and Caoimhin Kelleher amongst them, and Forest like those three – and that isn’t including the plethora of foreign options. It is not definite but they are looking at it.”

Trafford could be "unbelievable" signing

Sels has been reliable for Forest between the sticks this season, starting all 31 of their Premier League matches, but there are clear indications Trafford could be an upgrade on the Belgian.

Burnley have shipped just 12 goals in the Championship this season, which is by far the best defensive record in the league, and he has received high praise from minority owner JJ Watt, who lauded the goalkeeper as “unbelievable”.

That description is fully justified, given that the 6’6″ colossus ranks extremely highly on a number of key metrics for goalkeepers over the past year.

Statistic	Average per 90
Goals against	0.30 (99th percentile)
Save percentage	86.0% (99th percentile)
Save % (Penalty kicks)	100% (95th percentile)
Clean sheet percentage	70% (99th percentile)

Trafford has long been expected to sign for Newcastle United this summer, and it may be difficult to hijack the move for the goalkeeper, but if Champions League football is on offer at the City Ground next season, moving to Forest could be an attractive proposition.

Big picture: Winner faces India in semi-final

On Wednesday, Chloe Tryon and Marizanne Kapp were on the opposite sides of the Holkar Stadium. Tryon was lofting throwdowns inside out from the practice nets towards the main pitch while Kapp was taking some high catches on the other side of the ground. Tryon and Kapp were on the same side and made vital contributions in the only ODI South Africa have won against Australia. They could once again be key in South Africa’s last league game of the Women’s World Cup, against the same opponents.This is a top-of-the-table clash. Australia are yet to lose a game, on 11 points, while South Africa are on 10. The winner on Saturday will go to Navi Mumbai for the semi-final against India, while the loser will head to the Guwahati semi-final, where England will be waiting.Related

• England dot but Australia dash as Sutherland, Gardner crack the code

• SA on a roll, but Kapp wants bowlers to 'tighten up a little bit'

• Wolvaardt's SA keep solving problems, one match at a time

An Australia vs South Africa fixture has been an anomaly in women’s cricket. Before they played a multi-format series at the start of 2024, both the teams had last played a bilateral series in 2016 (only ODIs). Their meetings have often been restricted to ICC tournaments, where Australia have emerged victorious every single time – until the T20 World Cup semi-final last year.In the ODI World Cup in 2022, South Africa had done well to post 271. However, their sloppy fielding – they dropped four catches – meant Australia comfortably aced that chase, with Meg Lanning’s century eclipsing Laura Wolvaardt’s 90.This South African unit, though, not only knows how to reach knockouts but also keeps its nerves in check. That was on show in the two chases in Visakhapatnam in this World Cup, where they hunted down 252 against India despite being 81 for 5, and then chased 233 against Bangladesh from 78 for 5. This is not to say that only the lower order has fired for them. As many as five South Africa batters have scored 150 or more in the competition.4:19

Healy, Knight, Mandhana, Devine, Dottin – analysing the best six-hitters

However, Australia could pose a completely different challenge to them on Saturday. There are question marks over Alyssa Healy’s fitness, but Australia have shown they can line up strongly even without her. One thing that Australia promise is being relentless. They keep coming hard and offer little respite, be it with bat or ball. Annabel Sutherland will be crucial to their all-round excellence: she has been superb with both bat and ball in the tournament so far, while being supported by the spin battery.Australia are dominant. However, they will know that South Africa are a team with pedigree, as recent ICC tournaments show. At stake is not just the top spot in league standings but a semi-final in Navi Mumbai on a truer batting surface than Guwahati (plus an extra day in hand before a knockout match).

Form guide

Australia WWWWW (last five completed matches, most recent first)
South Africa WWWWW

In the spotlight – South Africa vs legspin

South Africa have been quite good against legspin in the last two years. Since the start of 2023, their top five averages 44.76 against that style of bowling. This is telling, because only Pakistan have faced more legspin bowling in this time (917) than South Africa (883). Australia average more (47.09) against legspin but their top five has faced only 491 such deliveries. Tazmin Brits, Sune Luus, Marizanne Kapp and Laura Wolvaardt all average over 58 against legspin in this period. Brits and Luus also score quite quickly, and only have two dismissals each against legspin.2:11

The big question – Is Healy fit?

On Saturday, they will be faced with one of the most economical bowlers at this World Cup in Alana King. She has six wickets so far, but her X-factor has been the control she affords Australia in the non-powerplay overs. Against England, she was at her stingy best, which allowed other bowlers to pick up wickets from the other end. Australia also have another legspinner in Georgia Wareham, who has three wickets in the two matches she played when they rested Sophie Molineux. King has eight wickets in four ODIs and averages 13.25 versus South Africa. Before the Ashes where she took a five-for, her best bowling figures (4 for 26) came last year against South Africa.

Team news: Is Healy fit?

Alyssa Healy did a few rounds of the outfield before a half hour batting stint in the enclosed nets. Tahlia McGrath said Australia are taking it day by day with their captain, who missed the previous game with a minor calf strain. Beth Mooney did her wicketkeeping drills before nets on Friday. Is that an indication Australia don’t want to risk Healy before the semi-final?Australia (probable): 1 Georgia Voll, 2 Phoebe Litchfield, 3 Ellyse Perry, 4 Annabel Sutherland, 5 Beth Mooney (wk), 6 Ashleigh Gardner, 7 Tahlia McGrath (capt), 8 Sophie Molineux, 9 Alana King, 10 Kim Garth, 11 Megan SchuttSouth Africa are one of the two teams to use all 15 players in the squad. They could bring back seamer Masabata Klaas instead of offspin-allrounder Nondumiso Shangase against Australia. They could also bring back Anneke Bosch, who scored 44 in South Africa’s only ODI win over Australia and also scored an unbeaten 74 against them in the T20 World Cup semi-final last year.South Africa (probable): 1 Laura Wolvaardt (capt), 2 Tazmin Brits, 3 Sune Luus, 4 Annerie Dercksen, 5 Marizanne Kapp, 6 Karabo Meso (wk), 7 Chloe Tryon, 8 Nadine de Klerk, 9 Nondumiso Shangase/Masabata Klaas, 10 Ayabonga Khaka, 11 Nonkululeko MlabaMasabata Klaas might slot into the side•Getty Images and Cricket Australia

Pitch and conditions

A fresh pitch will be used and this one will also be a black-soil surface. But a day out from the contest it had a lot of barren patches and very little green grass on it. Indore will be hot and humid, but there is a spell of thunderstorm in forecast in the afternoon. However, similar weather was in forecast for the last game on Wednesday, but rain did not make an appearance. Friday morning in the city was cloudy before Australia trained under the hot afternoon sun.

Stats and trivia

• Both Marizanne Kapp and Megan Schutt have 38 wickets in ODI World Cups. Only Lyn Fullston (39) and Jhulan Goswami (43) are ahead in the list of most wickets in the competition
• Australia’s batters have scored five centuries at this World Cup, the most for them in a single edition
• Among those with at least 150 runs at this World Cup, Nadine de Klerk’s strike rate of 150 is the best, followed by Alyssa Healy’s 131.25
• South Africa registered their first ODI win against Australia in February 2024 in their 17th attempt

Quotes

“We’ve been here for six weeks now. The fact that it’s South Africa doesn’t change much from our prep. We’ve been pretty consistent with how we prepare for teams. So, we looked at South Africa in detail this morning. We match up pretty well and are pretty thorough in our plans. Even though we haven’t played a lot against them, we feel as though we’re really well planned and prepared.”
“They are the best team in the world, it is very difficult to beat them. You have to do the basics really well. The team that does the basics better for longer and stays in control for longer becomes successful. Even when they were in difficult situations, they found a way to put the other team under pressure. Just doing the basics well and sticking to what we do well should give us the best chance.”

A left-arm quick, a six hitter who can bat in the top order, and a couple of mystery spinners are all part of our list

Deivarayan Muthu12-Aug-2025The 13th season of the CPL, which will kick off on August 14, will feature a number of T20 stars from the Caribbean as well as from other parts of the world. Here are five CPL rookies who could make a mark in the upcoming season.

Jediah Blades (Guyana Amazon Warriors)

Jediah Blades made his T20I debut recently•Randy Brooks/AFP via Getty ImagesHaving moved on from the likes of Sheldon Cottrell and Obed McCoy, West Indies are trialling Jediah Blades in the left-arm seamer’s role ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup. Even before he had played in the CPL, Blades, now 23, was fast-tracked into the West Indies side after impressing with the new ball for Guyana Rainforest Rangers in the inaugural West Indies breakout league, a tournament that was held earlier this year to identify emerging talent in the region.After conceding 40 runs in three overs on T20I debut against Australia, Blades bounced back in his second match, trapping Mitchell Marsh lbw with a sharp inswinger with the new ball before dismissing Mitchell Owen and Cooper Connolly with the older one. A good CPL season could potentially put Blades in T20 World Cup contention.

Kofi James (Barbados Royals)

Kofi James isn’t really a rookie – he is 27 and has played 12 CPL games so far – but hasn’t fulfilled his potential yet. Could this be James’ season?He showed attacking enterprise at the top for Leeward Islands Thunder in the breakout league, finishing on top of the runs charts (240 at a strike rate of nearly 158) and on top of the sixes chart with 16. With both Rahkeem Cornwall and Alick Athanaze moving out of Barbados Royals, James could be combined with Quinton de Kock and Brandon King in a new-look top order. James also bowls offspin and can be matched up against left-hand batters.

Usman Tariq (Trinbago Knight Riders)

Usman Tariq has played two seasons of PSL•PCBThe Knight Riders franchise has always been big on mystery spinners across leagues and for this CPL season, they have recruited Usman Tariq, who has had success with Quetta Gladiators in the PSL.Tariq, who is predominantly an offspinner, comes to a near-complete halt as he approaches his delivery stride before firing darts with a slinging, side-arm action. He often slings it in from wide of the crease, making it even more difficult for batters to pick him.The 27-year-old has played ten games in the PSL, taking 12 wickets at an economy rate of 7.64, and the upcoming CPL will be his first stint in a franchise T20 league outside Pakistan.

AM Ghazanfar (Antigua & Barbuda Falcons)

Afghanistan teenager AM Ghazanfar is another mystery spinner who is set for his maiden CPL stint. He impressed Mumbai Indians with his variations during a trial in the UAE and had them forking out INR 4.80 crore (US$ 570,000 approx.) for him during the IPL 2025 auction.Though Ghazanfar missed the IPL with injury, he reminded the world of his mystery in the T20 Blast for Derbyshire, where he took 16 wickets in 14 games at an economy rate of 7.05. It included a mesmerising spell of 4-2-5-2 against Yorkshire at Headingley. Ghazanfar could be just as deadly and unhittable on the spin-friendly surfaces in the Caribbean.However, he might miss the second half of the CPL if he gets picked in Afghanistan’s squad for the Asia Cup starting September 9 in the UAE.

Bevon Jacobs (Antigua & Barbuda Falcons)

Bevon Jacobs has a T20 strike rate of 147.31•BCCIBevon Jacobs is another emerging T20 star who is part of Mumbai Indians in the IPL and MI Emirates in the ILT20 in the UAE. He is now poised to make his CPL debut for Antigua & Barbuda Falcons along with Ghazanfar.At over six feet tall, the New Zealand power-hitter has the height and reach to mess with the lengths of bowlers. He has always been good against pace, and this CPL will be a test of his skills against spin on potentially slow surfaces.New Zealand currently have a settled middle order in T20Is, but success against spin in the Caribbean could prompt the team management to include him as a wildcard for next year’s T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

Kobbie Mainoo is reportedly in talks with Napoli ahead of a January exit from Manchester United.

Across his last four games, manager Ruben Amorim has won 10 points from an available 12, stringing together a run of three wins and a draw. The former Sporting boss has seemingly, after over a year in charge, found some consistency in his first team.

This could prove crucial for Amorim, who has found himself under varying amounts of pressure since moving from Sporting to Old Trafford in November 2024. In becoming more sure of his first team, though, the Portuguese has limited the minutes of Kobbie Mainoo.

A product of the club’s prestigious youth academy, Mainoo has played just 138 minutes in seven Premier League appearances this season. As a result, rumours have started to circulate about his future and now, reports in Italy have suggested that a move to Serie A could be on the cards.

Amorim wants Mainoo to stay amid Serie A talks

As per Football Italia, Napoli have “been in contact with the agent” of Kobbie Mainoo and that “interest in a loan deal is mutual” between the player and club. Reportedly, the defending Serie A champions are looking for midfield depth following an injury suffered by Kevin De Bruyne.

Depth is made all the more imperative given that Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa will be absent during the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations and Napoli have retained the interest that they seemed to have in Mainoo back in the summer transfer window.

Despite keen interest from Antonio Conte’s side, it would seem that Amorim hopes that Mainoo remains in Manchester, though it has also been reported that a move to Italy is “more likely” and something that has reached the “advanced talks” stage of negotiation.

Though Amorim may want Mainoo to stay, it is understandable as to why the midfielder wants more first-team football, especially with a World Cup coming up next year. With Napoli’s current absentees, Mainoo would certainly receive minutes at the club.

Not only that, but Napoli’s status as a Champions League club may only make the move more alluring to Mainoo. It remains to be seen, though, whether the England international departs in the next transfer window.

Exciting update on young Man Utd defender's first team chances

Brendan Rodgers tendered his resignation from Celtic at the start of last week to end his second spell with the Scottish giants in the dugout at Parkhead.

The Northern Irish head coach opted to move on from the club for a second time after a 3-1 loss to Hearts left the Hoops eight points adrift of first place in the Scottish Premiership table.

Rodgers, as shown in the graphic above, enjoyed a largely successful second spell with the Bhoys, winning four trophies in two seasons, before the disappointing start to the current campaign.

After the ex-Liverpool and Leicester City boss left the Hoops last week, experienced manager Martin O’Neill was placed in interim charge and has managed two matches so far.

A 4-0 win over Falkirk and a 3-1 win over Rangers have shown that the club can afford to take their time to find the right man for the job, as O’Neill is a safe pair of hands for now.

One of the things that the next manager should make a priority when they arrive at Parkhead is reviving Reo Hatate, whose form has dropped off this season.

Why Celtic need to revive Reo Hatate

In the summer of 2024, Celtic reportedly rejected an offer of £10m from an unnamed French club, which shows that they valued him at even more than that at the time.

Then, in the 2024/25 campaign, Hatate stepped up his game to deliver 11 goals and nine assists in 55 appearances in all competitions for the Hoops, per Transfermarkt.

The Japan international scored ten goals and created 14 ‘big chances’ in 37 outings in the Premiership, which shows that he provided regular quality as both a scorer and a creator of goals from a central midfield position.

Unfortunately, the 27-year-old star has endured a frustrating 2025/26 campaign so far, so much so that he has been a substitute in the first two games of O’Neill’s interim tenure.

Reo Hatate (Premiership)	24/25	25/26
Appearances	37	8
Goals	10	1
Big chances created	14	1
Key passes per game	1.2	0.8
Assists	4	0
Pass accuracy	82%	81%
Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, Hatate’s influence at the top end of the pitch has waned. The midfielder is not as impactful as he was last term for the Hoops, as a scorer or a creator.

The Japanese star, who has one goal and no assists in 15 appearances in all competitions, is capable of far better and that is why the next manager needs to revive his performances as a priority.

Thankfully, for Hatate, there is a manager keen on taking the role who could be the perfect man to revive the central midfielder’s season.

Former Championship manager interested in the Celtic job

According to 67HailHail, former Middlesbrough head coach Michael Carrick has had his name thrown in the ring for the vacant Celtic job.

The report claims that the former Manchester United central midfielder would be interested in replacing Rodgers at Parkhead in the coming weeks, after leaving Boro at the end of last season.

Manager Focus

Who are the greatest coaches in the land? Football FanCast’s Manager Focus series aims to reveal all.

It states that the English tactician is looking to get back into management again, as he has been without a club so far this season, and the Celtic job is a potential option for him.

However, 67HailHail adds that Carrick does have some reservations about the size of the job and whether he is ready for it at this point in his career, which the site itself suggests may be a red flag.

However, if he is still interested in taking the job, as the report suggests, then the club should consider him as a genuine option, because he could revive Hatate.

Why Michael Carrick would be perfect for Reo Hatate

Carrick could get the Japan international back to his best in the middle of the park for the Scottish giants, and not just because he was a former midfielder for Manchester United and England.

The English boss plays a 4-2-3-1 formation, per Transfermarkt, and could play Hatate in the number ten position to get the best out of his attacking qualities, which were on full display in the 2024/25 campaign.

Carrick’s coaching in the last two seasons with Middlesbrough, before his exit in the summer, suggests that he can coach a team to be incredibly creative with the ball.

Michael Carrick’s two full seasons at Middlesbrough
Championship	23/24	24/25
League finish	8th	10th
xPTS (Expected league finish)	73 (5th)	71 (6th)
xG	69.5	67.4
xGA	55.0	56.4
xGD	+14.5	+11.3
Stats via FotMob

As you can see in the table above, Middlesbrough racked up roughly 137 xG in 82 Championship games across the 2023/24 and 2024/25 campaigns, which suggests that Hatate would be in a side that can create plenty of chances for him to start scoring goals again.

Carrick has also shown that he can develop and improve attack-minded midfield players. Finn Azaz, per Transfermarkt, had never managed more than seven goals and five assists in a Championship season before his haul of 12 goals and 11 assists in the division for Carrick’s side last term.

The out-of-work coach, who was hailed as an “insanely talented coach” by former Boro player Lukas Engel, was also named by Morgan Rogers as one of the coaches who helped him to improve as a player.

Rogers is now shining at Aston Villa, with 14 goals and 13 assists last term, and is an England international, which is further evidence that Carrick can help attacking midfielders to thrive.

Therefore, the English head coach could be the perfect appointment to reignite Hatate’s Celtic career because of his formation, his coaching, and his development of attack-minded midfield players.

Rodgers upgrade: Celtic could go far in Europe by hiring "unbeatable" manager

Celtic could upgrade on Brendan Rodgers in a key area by hiring this head coach.

By
Dan Emery

Nov 4, 2025