Tag Futebol

It’s been an odd summer for Chelsea this year, as, on the one hand, they made a whole host of exciting signings as they tend to do every year.

Yet, on the other hand, they came out of the window in profit from the astounding number of players sold and moved on.

However, even with the amount of money brought in, the Pensioners ultimately decided against signing Barcelona’s tremendously exciting Fermin Lopez.

Fortunately, the Enzo Maresca still has an abundance of talent in the squad, including one player worth millions more than the 22-year-old.

Chelsea's pursuit of Lopez

In part thanks to the Club World Cup, Chelsea actually completed the bulk of their most pressing transfers early on in the window this year.

Transfer Focus

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

For example, the likes of Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, Jamie Gittens and Dario Essugo all put pen to paper prior to the victory over Paris Saint-Germain, and then Jorrel Hato did the same in early August.

However, with money to spend and a desire to further improve the side, the Blues looked to make more signings late in the window, and while they secured Alejandro Garnacho and Facundo Buonanotte, it wasn’t to be for Lopez.

It wasn’t through lack of trying, though, at least to begin with, as numerous reports late on in the window made it quite clear that the club had been in contact with the player, with some even claiming they were keen for him to push for a move.

Yet, with some stating he could have cost as much as £78m, perhaps it was for the best that Chelsea ultimately opted against signing him, especially when they’ve already got a star in the squad worth millions more than him.

The Chelsea player worth millions more than Lopez

Thanks to Chelsea’s ability to spot talent and their willingness to go out and sign it, Maresca has an array of brilliant players in his squad.

Yet, when it comes to the most exciting star, the one who fans are desperate to watch, it’s impossible to look past Cole Palmer.

The England international has been a tour de force since his move to Stamford Bridge two years ago, and his valuation reflects that.

For example, the CIES Football Observatory value him at up to a staggering €153m, which works out to around £133m, or £55m more than Barça reportedly wanted for Lopez.

It’s an extraordinary amount of money, but it’s not hard to see why the 23-year-old is worth so much, as he has been unreal for the Blues.

In 98 appearances for the club, totalling 7950 minutes, the “world-class” superstar, as dubbed by Pat Nevin, scored 43 goals and provided 29 assists.

That means he’s averaged a goal involvement every 1.36 games, or every 110.41 minutes, which is utterly superb.

In contrast, the El Campillo-born prospect has scored 19 goals and provided 11 assists in 90 appearances, totalling 4013 minutes, for the Catalan giants.

Appearances

98

90

Minutes

7950′

4013′

Goals

43

19

Assists

29

11

Goal Involvements per Match

0.73

0.33

Minutes per Goal Involvement

110.41′

133.76′

That translates to a reasonable, but notably worse, average of a goal involvement every three games, or every 133.76 minutes.

Ultimately, Lopez is a very exciting talent and could well develop into a superstar, but as things stand, Palmer is clearly the better player, and his valuation represents that.

Jamie Carragher has named the Chelsea summer signing he's "not a fan" of

The Sky Sports pundit is already skeptical about one of Enzo Maresca’s new additions.

ByDominic Lund Sep 2, 2025

MatériaMais Notícias

O Palmeiras se reapresentou na Academia de Futebol, nesta segunda-feira (24), dando início à preparação para enfrentar o Tombense nesta quarta-feira (26), às 20h, no Parque do Sabiá, em Uberlândia (MG), pelo jogo de volta da terceira fase da Copa do Brasil. O lateral Garcia, que foi titular no empate em 2 a 2 com o Vasco pelo Brasileirão no último domingo (23), comentou sobre o resultado da partida, agradecendo pela titularidade, e projetou o duelo contra o time mineiro.

> ANÁLISE: Palmeiras se especializa em ‘correr atrás’, mas com o risco de não chegar lá na frente

– Quando se fala de Palmeiras, a gente sempre entra com a mente vencedora. Ontem não foi diferente. A gente sabia que o Vasco vinha de vitória e é uma equipe bastante qualificada. E a gente buscou o resultado até o final. Saímos perdendo, mas o Palmeiras sempre vai até o final, estamos sempre buscando a vitória e acho que foi um resultado justo. O empate acabou não sendo tão ruim e fico feliz pelo desempenho da equipe, todos jogaram bem, corremos até o final. Voltamos agora já com a cabeça no Tombense, que quarta temos um jogo bastante importante – disse Garcia.

continua após a publicidadeRelacionadasPalmeirasVeiga e Rony iniciam transição física, e Palmeiras treina pensando na Copa do BrasilPalmeiras24/04/2023PalmeirasPalmeiras tem trio de campeões do Sul-Americano pela Seleção sub-17Palmeiras24/04/2023PalmeirasANÁLISE: Palmeiras se especializa em ‘correr atrás’, mas com o risco de não chegar lá na frentePalmeiras23/04/2023

– Fiquei sabendo da titularidade na preleção e fiquei bastante empolgado. É um momento com o qual sonhei muito, estar ali no Maracanã, um palco histórico, com 60 mil pessoas. Fico feliz de estar ganhando as oportunidades. Agradeço à comissão e aos companheiros por me darem confiança.

Na Copa do Brasil, o Palmeiras derrotou o Tombense por 4 a 2 no Allianz Parque. Logo, pode empatar ou perder por até um gol de diferença para avançar às oitavas de final da competição.

– Temos mais 90 minutos contra o Tombense e é assim que o Palmeiras vai encarar, com bastante humildade e pés no chão. O Tombense é um time qualificado, então vamos com a mente vencedora para desempenhar um bom futebol e voltarmos com a classificação – declarou o jovem.

> Palmeiras perde o costume da ‘baliza zero’, e auxiliar de Abel elenca motivos

O lateral ainda falou sobre o apoio dos jogadores mais experientes do elenco alviverde, citando dois jogadores da sua posição como principais inspirações.

– Sempre que me perguntam quem são meus ídolos e minhas inspirações, eu cito os dois: Marcos Rocha e Mayke. São dois jogadores grandiosos, que, no dia a dia, estão sempre me dando confiança, me alertando dos caminhos certos, e para mim isso é muito importante. Eu escuto bastante e tento levar para dentro de campo e também para a minha vida – concluiu.

O elenco alviverde volta a treinar nesta terça-feira (25), às 11h, e viaja para Uberlândia no final da tarde.

MatériaMais Notícias

Não foi a primeira vez que Rogério Ceni falou sobre o caso Marcos Paulo. Mas foi a maneira mais enfática de todas, nesta terça-feira (18), após a vitória por 2 a 0 sobre o Puerto Cabello, da Venezuela, no Morumbi, pela Copa Sul-Americana. O meia, responsável por um atrito com o treinador no mês passado, foi o autor de um dos gols.

– O Marcos, eu falei, o problema foi uma postagem que ele fez. Eu conversei no meio de todos os jogadores dentro de campo, porque a postagem foi pública. E fico muito feliz que ele tenha feito gol. Uma coisa que eu aprendi é que a gente pode discutir dentro do campo, mas isso fica dentro do campo.

continua após a publicidadeRelacionadasSão PauloGringos do São Paulo saem em defesa de Rogério Ceni após vitória: ‘Ídolo do clube e trabalhador’São Paulo19/04/2023São PauloANÁLISE: aplausos e vaias garantem vitória do São Paulo com ares de ‘dramalhão mexicano’, mas novela continuaSão Paulo19/04/2023São Paulo‘Não posso responder pelo empregador. Sou empregado’, diz Ceni sobre permanência no São PauloSão Paulo19/04/2023

+ ATUAÇÕES: Em noite ruim, Marcos Paulo salva, e Calleri mostra que faz diferença em vitória do São Paulo

Buscando encerrar de vez a questão, Ceni elogiou alguns pontos sobre seu jogador, que segundo ele ‘pode ter sido influenciado’ a fazer a postagem.

– Eu não sou hipócrita, eu falei com ele, o que ele colocou naquilo não condizia com a minha pessoa. Mas em momento algum ele faltou a treinamentos, deixou de jogar, foi premiado com o gol hoje. Ele é bom menino, às vezes influenciado, empurrado por outro que tem um desvio de conduta, mas ele é bom menino. Fico feliz por ele.

+ Confira os jogos, classificação e simule resultados da Sul-Americana-23 na tabela do LANCE!

The Manchester United fanbase will be hoping for a major transformation next season, with the levels produced by the first team in 2024/25 nothing short of disastrous.

Ruben Amorim’s side ended the campaign in 15th place in the Premier League, whilst also losing the Europa League final to fellow English strugglers Tottenham Hotspur.

The manager was only somewhat responsible for the embarrassing period on the pitch, largely having to work with the players who were already at Old Trafford before his appointment.

However, the current transfer window has allowed him to change the Red Devils’ fortunes, with Matheus Cunha already joining in a £62.5m deal earlier this summer.

Various other additions are expected to hand the manager the best possible chance of being a success in the role, with the additions he makes crucial to his tenure at the club.

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

Ollie Watkins is a striker who has constantly been on United’s radar over the last couple of days, with the hierarchy exploring a deal to land the England international this window.

Any deal for the 29-year-old appears to be an expensive one, as Unai Emery’s side are currently demanding a fee in the region of £60m to part ways with their leading talisman.

As a result, the Red Devils have seemingly moved on to other targets in recent days, resulting in Napoli star Victor Osimhen reemerging on their shortlist, according to one Spanish outlet.

They claim in their report that the Nigerian forward has expressed his desire to move to Old Trafford this summer, with a Premier League move the dream for the 26-year-old this summer.

It also states that Amorim’s side are leading the race for the talisman this window, but any deal could cost them £64m after he scored 37 times on loan at Galatasaray last campaign.

Why United’s £64m target could be Amorim’s next Gyokeres

Viktor Gyokeres doesn’t need any introduction with the vast majority of people knowing the goalscoring prowess he possesses based on his figures this season.

The Swedish international started the 2024/25 campaign under the guidance of now United boss Amorim, scoring a staggering 54 times in his 52 outings across all competitions.

After the 40-year-old accepted the manager’s job at Old Trafford, many links have emerged between the striker and the Red Devils, but no deal has come to fruition.

He looks set to leave the Portuguese outfit this window, but is in favour of a move to Arsenal, after he stated his desire to move to the Emirates rather than the Theatre of Dreams.

However, whilst it may be a disappointment to miss out on a clinical goalscorer like Gyokeres, the supporters shouldn’t worry, with Osimhen having all the tools to replicate his success.

When comparing their respective stats from the recent campaign, the Nigerian has dominated in numerous key areas, highlighting why he’d be the better option for the Red Devils.

The Napoli forward, who’s been labelled “world-class” by Sky Sports’ Dougie Critchley, has posted a higher shot on target rate this season, showcasing his excellent talents in the final third.

Games played

30

33

Goals & assists

31

46

Shots on target

2.2

2

Goals per shot on target

0.4

0.3

Aerials won

4.3

0.6

Aerial success rate

64%

30%

Take-on success

60%

27%

He’s also won more of the aerial battles he’s entered, along with a higher success rate for take-ons, offering a more all-round option within the final third than the Swede.

The price tag between the pair is expected to be very similar this summer, but as seen by the difference in stats, Osimhen would certainly be the man to choose in the current window.

He’s also managed to demonstrate his talents in Europe’s top five leagues, having the experience and quality to help fire the side back up the table next time around.

If a deal for the Nigerian does get completed this summer, it would be one of the signings of the window, handing Amorim that elite-level talisman he’s desperately been hunting for as of late.

He's better than Watkins: Man Utd in talks to sign "world-class" £26m star

Manchester United appear to be making moves to land a new striker this summer.

1 ByEthan Lamb Jul 4, 2025

“We are really prepared to be on top of the game in all aspects tomorrow,” says India allrounder

Andrew Fidel Fernando06-Aug-20242:13

Washington wants to ‘get the job done with the bat’

An India-Sri Lanka bilateral series in which India are the team scrambling to prove themselves? Wow. It has been a while. In fact, India have not lost a bilateral series between these teams since 1997.The outcomes of the last two matches are especially surprising given the pummelings India had handed out in these teams’ last two meetings – dismissing Sri Lanka for 50 in the Asia Cup final, and 55 in the ODI World Cup at the Wankhede.Ahead of the final match, it is an India player, Washington Sundar, defending the proficiency of his team’s batters. It has been a meek showing from their middle order so far. Their batting performances have been buoyed primarily by Rohit Sharma’s aggression in the powerplay, with Axar Patel also producing important runs from Nos. 5 and 7.Related

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“We’re quality players of spin,” Washington said on the eve of the third match. The first two games have been played on exceedingly spin-friendly pitches, and more of the same is expected for Wednesday.”We’ve always played on these kinds of pitches, even at home, even in Test matches. In domestic cricket we play a lot of games on such wickets. A lot of our players have done really well, especially in the middle order, especially batting against spin.”It’s just a matter of finding a way in their own individual self, and trying to get the job done. Everyone knows it’s a challenging wicket. The Indian team has always been one where everyone puts their hands up, especially when the challenge arises.”‘A win SL really needed’

The victory against India on Sunday, after Sri Lanka had come into the series on the back of 10 straight losses (across formats) meant plenty to the Sri Lanka team, assistant coach Thilina Kandamby said. But they are not losing sight of taking the series.
“It was a big result actually, The boys were very happy, including the staff. But we have one more game to go, so it’s about keeping focus. Everyone is well prepared, and these are not easy pitches for batting, but we’ve put up competitive totals.
“It’s a win that we really needed, and it came after such a long time. We enjoyed that, but we talked about how there’s another game to win to clinch the series. There’s a good opportunity to defeat India after so many years. We talked a lot about that.”

Where Sri Lanka were so poor in last year’s World Cup they failed to qualify for the Champions Trophy next year, for India, this is essentially preparation for that tournament. There is a chance given India’s objections to playing in Pakistan, that many of their matches could be moved to Sri Lanka – Khettarama the likeliest venue if that happens.That would mean more turning tracks in their future, next February and March. The other possible venue for India matches is the UAE, where, again, spin may play a significant role.Part of India’s problems in this series has been their inability to prevent Sri Lanka’s lower-middle order batters – Dunith Wellalage in particular – from putting together vital partnerships in the last 10 overs.”We’d love to get them out for 200 or less than that,” Washington said. “We had them in that situation in both matches. With big tournaments coming up, we’ll be in similar situations, and it’s an a opportunity for us to find a way to get the job done in crunch situations. We just need to put our hands up and win those critical situations in the game.”On the batting front, India’s challenge has been to counter an unusual Sri Lanka attack. The hosts even have a finger spinner (Kamindu Mendis) who can bowl with either arm – as well as the likes of mystery spinner Akila Dananjaya, who bowls a mix of offbreaks, googlies, and legbreaks. India have tried to counter this by attempting to maintain a left-right combination at the crease through this series, sending left-hander Washington in to bat as high as No. 4 alongside Virat Kohli, in the last game. So far, the strategy hasn’t fully worked.Washington said coach Gautam Gambhir has been vocal as the team has sought to hone their strategy against spin.”There’s been a lot of inputs from [Gambhir]. He’s a high-quality player of spin. We’ve always seen him putting up great performances on such wickets, especially against quality spin-bowling. That’s one of the reasons we came out here today to practice, to try and find a way do those little things tactically. We are really prepared to be on top of the game in all aspects tomorrow.”

Selling well has never been Arsenal’s strong point. Their club-record departure currently stands at £35m, a move that saw Folarin Balogun head to Monaco.

In that instance, they did sell well. Balogun had only ever played ten times for the senior team, scoring two goals.

However, beyond that, there really isn’t much to write home about. Mika Biereth, a player who scored 27 goals this term was only sold for £4m, just rubberstamping the ideology that the Gunners don’t sell their assets for very much cash.

Given Arsenal’s need for a centre forward, there may well be a tinge of regret that he’s gone on to perform so well after leaving.

Yet, who will depart this summer? Well, Thomas Partey is one player whose future is still up in the air.

The latest on Thomas Partey's future at Arsenal

News broke on Sunday afternoon that Barcelona are reportedly in talks to sign Partey on a free transfer.

The midfielder’s contract expires in a month’s time and although Arsenal would allegedly like to extend, the Ghanaian has been free to discuss his options with other clubs since January.

It did look as though the former Atletico Madrid star would almost certainly be exiting the Emirates Stadium but Mikel Arteta has only had positives for him in recent months.

Indeed, the Spaniard said late last month: “In terms of consistency, this has been Thomas’s best season. His performances, his availability, it’s all been exceptional.”

Now, that doesn’t particularly sound like the words of someone who’s too keen on seeing Partey depart, does it?

Either way, with Martin Zubimendi allegedly on his way to Arsenal, it wouldn’t be too big a blow if Barcelona did prise him away from the Emirates Stadium.

Another Arsenal star wanted by Barcelona

It’s unlikely too many other senior players will leave the Emirates Stadium behind this summer but Arsenal’s transfer kitty isn’t unlimited and if they are to strengthen out wide and at centre forward, someone may have to leave.

Could that player be Gabriel Martinelli? Given his status as a bit of a fan favourite, it’s unlikely you’d see too many Arsenal fans vote in favour of the Brazilian leaving but that is a distinct possibility with one of Europe’s top clubs eyeing him up.

Transfer Focus

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

Indeed, according to Spanish outlet, SPORT, Barcelona are weighing up a move for the left winger if they cannot conclude a deal for Liverpool star Luis Diaz.

Diaz appears to be their number one priority in attack but Martinelli is another option, much to the frustration of those at Arsenal.

Described as a “talent of the century” once upon a time by ex-Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, Martinelli’s form has faltered since that 15-goal campaign of 2022/23, but he demonstrated towards the back end of this season why he’s so loved in north London.

The Brazil international most notably scored inside the Bernabeu against Barca’s rivals, Real Madrid, while he also bagged against Ipswich and then in the 2-2 draw with Liverpool.

Still aged 23, there is so much potential left to extract in the forward and Arsenal fans will pray that isn’t at Barcelona.

It’s certainly a different situation to Partey. The Ghana international is beyond his best years, but Martinelli has them in front of them. It would be a huge blow to lose the latter but not so much the former.

Of course, the Gunners have been linked with the likes of Rafael Leao and Nico Williams but Martinelli already knows the Premier League like the back of his hand and you’d be hard pressed to find another winger who works quite as hard as he does.

His end product needs refining, for sure, but much like Saka, he’s always tracking back. He’s the definition of a team player.

Martinelli is simply ready to explode and you can just envisage him doing that in a Barcelona shirt. Just look at Raphinha’s impact after trading the Premier League for LaLiga.

His fellow Brazilian cemented himself as one of the best players in the world this season. Now five years older than Arsenal’s number 11, he scored a ridiculous 34 goals.

It’s unlikely Martinelli will get to that sort of level but it shows the stunning numbers a forward player can reach in that Barca frontline.

Selling him this summer, regardless of any future improvements to the team, is certainly not a good idea. If the Gunners are going to sell any of their wide players, it should probably be Leandro Trossard.

Arsenal beware, you cannot afford to lose such a key component of the team. Partey, on the other hand, feel free to take him, Barca.

He's a lot like Xhaka: Arsenal working hard to sign £43m "duel monster"

The incredible youngster could be a superstar with Arsenal.

By
Jack Salveson Holmes

May 13, 2025

It seemed like forever that Arsenal had been away from the Champions League before their return to the competition in 2023, allowing them to make more memories in the famous competition.

From squeezing through the group stages to making the final in dramatic circumstances, the north Londoners have had plenty of memorable moments under the lights since making their debut in 1998.

Football FanCast has ranked 25 of the Gunners’ best Champions League moments.

Every Arsenal Champions League campaign

Arsenal are back as Champions League contenders – here’s how their overall record stands.

By
Stephan Georgiou

May 15, 2025

25

2005/06: Arsenal 2-1 FC Thun

Bergkamp rescues Arsenal late on

Champions League minnows FC Thun were plying their trade in non-league eight years prior to this fixture and were expected to be rolled over with ease. But it certainly didn’t pan out like that.

Arsenal had to play with 10 men for much of the match after Robin van Persie received a straight red card for catching Alen Orman in the face with his boot.

The Gunners found themselves frustrated by the Swiss outfit and appeared to be heading towards a shock draw before Dennis Bergkamp struck home a dramatic stoppage-time winner to spare his side’s blushes.

24

2000/01: Arsenal 2-1 Valencia

Parlour screamer downs Valencia

Arsenal came back from 1-0 down against La Liga giants Valencia to secure a 2-1 victory in the Champions League quarter-finals.

Thierry Henry levelled the score in the 58th minute before Ray Parlour netted a thunderous strike from distance two minutes later to put the north Londoners ahead.

Unfortunately, the second leg saw the Spanish side advance on away goals after winning 1-0 at the Mestalla.

Valencia went on to reach the final before suffering a heartbreaking defeat to Bayern Munich on penalties.

23

2003/04: Arsenal 1-0 Dynamo Kyiv

Ashley Cole keeps Gunners alive

Bonfire Night in 2003 produced an electrifying atmosphere at Highbury after Ashley Cole netted an 88th-minute winner to clinch a 1-0 victory against Dynamo Kyiv.

The all-important result kept Arsenal’s Champions League dreams afloat as they went on to win their final two group games to qualify for the knockout stages of the competition.

The Gunners reached the quarter-finals before suffering a late 3-2 aggregate defeat to London rivals Chelsea.

22

2005/06: Arsenal 1-0 Villarreal

Highbury bids farewell to CL nights

Kolo Toure’s first-half strike was enough to seal a 1-0 win against Villarreal in the semi-finals of the Champions League, in a game that saw a squirrel famously invade the field of play.

It was also Arsenal’s final European fixture at Highbury, so the victory was a fitting farewell to the historic stadium.

Wenger’s men went on to reach the Champions League final after holding the Spaniards to a goalless draw in the second leg at El Madrigal.

21

2002/03: PSV 0-4 Arsenal

Gilberto and Arsenal thrash PSV

Arsenal secured a thumping 4-0 away victory against PSV in the group stages of the 2002/03 competition. Gilberto Silva broke the record for the fastest Champions League goal after netting inside 21 seconds.

Thierry Henry scored a late brace and Freddie Ljungberg also found himself on the scoresheet to complete the demolition job in the Netherlands.

Dennis Bergkamp also played in his first European away game in two years.

20

2013/14: Arsenal 2-0 Napoli

Mesut Özil truly arrives

The summer of 2013 saw Arsenal obliterate their transfer record to sign Real Madrid playmaker Mesut Özil for a whopping £42.4m.

The German’s first goal in Arsenal colours came in their Champions League opener against Napoli as he beautifully caressed home a side-footed effort from just inside the box.

Özil scored seven goals whilst laying on 14 assists in his debut campaign in north London, so not bad going…

19

2024/25: PSV 1-7 Arsenal

Gunners enjoy another great night in Eindhoven

Arsenal’s placing in the revamped Champions League group phase meant a last-16 tie against PSV, who had beaten Liverpool and Juventus on their way to sealing their own knockout stage berth.

But those hoping for a close game were quickly disappointed, as the Gunners raced out of the blocks to lead 3-0 inside 31 minutes.

Arsenal didn’t take their foot off the gas in the second half, putting another four past their opponents to make the second leg a formality. It was their biggest away victory in the Champions League.

The 11 biggest wins in the knockout stages of the Champions League

Arsenal recently joined a list of the best team performances in Champions League history after their 7-1 win against PSV.

By
Stephan Georgiou

Mar 5, 2025

18

2001/02: Arsenal 4-1 Bayer Leverkusen

Eventual finalists played off the park

Arsenal played the would-be runners-up Bayer Leverkusen off the park as the French trio of Robert Pires, Thierry Henry and Patrick Vieira all got themselves on the scoresheet.

But it was the Dutchman Bergkamp who scored the pick of the goals as he turned his man on the edge of the area and cheekily dinked the ball over the helpless Hans-Jörg Butt.

Despite a dazzling display by the Gunners, they were dumped out of the competition in the second group phase after finishing third.

17

2007/08: Arsenal 7-0 Slavia Prague

Gunners turn on style against Slavia

Wenger’s men completely dominated their Czech opponents as they recorded the club’s biggest-ever Champions League victory. The fluidity of the play was a joy to watch, and some of the goals scored were out of this world.

The Gunners came second to Sevilla in their group that year and reached the last eight of the competition before suffering a 5-3 aggregate defeat by Liverpool. A cruel exit for the north Londoners.

Football purists will certainly enjoy watching this highlight reel below.

16

2005/06: Arsenal 0-0 Real Madrid

Gunners hold Real at Highbury to complete epic victory

After sealing a historic 1-0 win at the Santiago Bernabeu, Arsenal still had to fend off Real Madrid on their own patch to seal a quarter-final place back in 2006.

In an even game, the Gunners held their own against their fancied opponents once again, with Thierry Henry mesmeric as ever as Arsene Wenger’s side held on.

Madrid came closest when Raul was extraordinarily denied by Jens Lehmann with the goal at his mercy.

Leicester City are preparing for life back in the Championship and could now land a bargain signing as they begin to build for next season and beyond, according to a report.

Leicester City begin to build for life after relegation

Relegation is hardly a death sentence, but this season is something Foxes supporters will be keen to forget about as they return to England’s second-tier under Ruud van Nistelrooy or indeed a new boss. The former Netherlands international is under scrutiny at the King Power Stadium and may be at risk of the axe despite securing a rare Premier League victory over Southampton last weekend.

With Leicester’s managerial position potentially up for grabs, Bristol City boss Liam Manning could replace Van Nistelrooy in the dugout after leading the Robins to the Championship playoffs this campaign.

Russell Martin and Danny Rohl are other reported Foxes candidates, which could cause a temporary hold-up when it comes to transfer dealings as their hierarchy decide whether to stick or twist. Earning promotion at the first attempt is never easy. Still, the theory of clubs in receipt of parachute payments standing a better chance has proven to be true over recent years.

Leicester City eye move for new 40 y/o manager who has same agent as Vardy

He’s been in the Championship before.

ByCharlie Smith Apr 9, 2025

If anything, there is still encouragement for Leicester in the face of some dark recent times. Jamie Vardy’s departure signals the end of an era, but a new one can begin provided the club make some savvy additions in the next few months.

Pre-season will breed optimism that they can return to the top-flight, and supporters could now have another reason to be excited following recent developments.

Leicester City ready to strike for Manchester United's Jack Kingdon

According to EFL Analysis, Leicester are one of four clubs circling for Manchester United youngster Jack Kingdon, who is set to leave Old Trafford on a free transfer once his contract expires at the end of the month.

The former Scotland Under-19 international is also on the radar of Wrexham, Millwall and Derby County following an impressive spell on loan at Rochdale.

Jack Kingdon’s combined statistics in 2024/25 – all competitions

Appearances

25

Goals

0

Assists

1

Only Southampton have conceded more goals than the Foxes in the Premier League this season, which may have prompted Van Nistelrooy and company to seek reinforcements to counter inevitable outgoings this summer. Realistically, Kingdon is unlikely to be a first-team starter straight away at 19 years of age, though his availability on a free transfer and potential to develop could be worth taking a chance on.

Lausanne Sport tried to sign the central defender in January and have been mooted as another potential destination amid Manchester United’s decision not to offer the Bolton-born man fresh terms.

Kingdon is likely to have the pick of several exciting destinations this summer, and Leicester will hope to convince the prodigious talent that there is a place for him to learn and develop at the King Power.

The tournament, earlier known as the ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup, will be played in the T20 format

ESPNcricinfo staff31-Oct-2025

Pakistan and Oman will kick off the Asian Cricket Council’s (ACC) Rising Stars T20 tournament in Doha, Qatar, on November 14, with the showpiece India vs Pakistan match slotted for November 16. On Friday, the organisers announced the two groups: Group A has Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Hong Kong and Sri Lanka, while Group B has India, Oman, Pakistan and UAE.The tournament, earlier known as the ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup, will be played in the T20 format and pit the ‘A’ teams of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. The three Associate teams, Hong Kong, Oman and UAE, will field their main teams. Two games will be played each day from November 14 to November 19, before the semi-finals are played on November 21 and the final on November 23.This will be the first cricketing exchange between the men’s teams of India and Pakistan since the senior Asia Cup in September, though the senior women’s teams faced off at the ODI World Cup earlier this month.ACC Rising Stars tournament schedule

Nov 14 – Oman vs Pak; Ind vs UAE
Nov 15 – Ban vs HK; Afg vs SL
Nov 16 – Oman vs UAE; Ind vs Pak
Nov 17 – HK vs SL; Afg vs Ban
Nov 18 – Pak vs UAE; Ind vs Oman
Nov 19 – Afg vs HK; Ban vs SL
Nov 21 – Semi-finals: A1 vs B2; B1 vs A2
Nov 23 – Final

When the men played the Asia Cup, there were no handshakes or any other form of greetings between the players of the two countries, and it ended with India, the tournament champions, leaving Dubai without the trophy. It emerged that they had decided not to receive the trophy from the ACC chief, Mohsin Naqvi, who is also a parliamentarian in Pakistan and the chairman of the PCB. An ACC official removed the trophy from the dais after a long delay once it became clear that the victors would not be coming up to collect it.The Emerging Teams tournament began in 2013 and has had six editions so far, having started as an Under-23s tournament before being switched to a competition featuring ‘A’ teams. Pakistan and Sri Lanka have won it twice each, while India and Afghanistan have won it once apiece – Afghanistan won the last edition, in 2024 in Oman, beating Sri Lanka in the final by seven wickets.

Jacob Bethell declared himself ready to take a potential Ashes opportunity after experiencing the "addictive feeling” of scoring his first professional hundred in England’s record 342-run thrashing of South Africa.Bethell, who turns 22 next month, became England’s second-youngest centurion in men’s ODIs in Southampton on Sunday and has already played four Tests, scoring three half-centuries. Barring injury or a late change of heart, Bethell will head to Australia in November as England’s spare batter but hopes he can push his case for selection through his white-ball performances.His performances at No. 3 in his maiden Test series in New Zealand put serious pressure on Ollie Pope’s position ahead of the English summer, but he was unavailable to play Zimbabwe while at the IPL and Pope secured his spot with 171. However, Pope faded badly to finish with 304 runs at 34 against India, and could yet find his position under major pressure.”It’s obviously nearing,” Bethell said. “I’m hoping to be in the squad and if I’m in the squad, it’s only one thing that has to happen – in terms of an injury or something like that – and I’m in, and I’ve got to be ready to perform. I don’t know if these runs mean anything [towards selection] but I don’t think they can hurt. If the opportunity arises, I’ll hopefully be there to take it."Bethell was promoted from No. 6 to No. 4 at Lord’s on Thursday to take down South Africa’s spinners, scoring 58 off 40 balls, and was retained in the same role in Southampton. He made 110 off 82, dominating the scoring in a 182-run third-wicket partnership with Joe Root, and roared in celebration when reaching three figures with a cover drive off Nandre Burger.Bethell drives through the covers en route to his century•PA Photos/Getty Images

“It was pretty special,” Bethell said. “Just goosebumps, to be honest. As soon as I laced it in the gap – it couldn’t have hit more the middle of my bat – and it just raced to the boundary. I didn’t really know what I did. It was a bit of a blur to be honest, but it was a great feeling… It was unbelievable. It feels like an addictive feeling, so hopefully there’s a few more of them to come."He does not anticipate a permanent move to No. 4, the position normally filled by captain Harry Brook. “I like coming in and facing spin to start. I feel like if I can get going, especially with the one [extra] fielder up, there’s always a gap to hit… I don’t think Brooky will be stepping down from No. 4 anytime soon, so I’ll just be looking to do that whenever the opportunity arises.”Bethell’s father Graham used to play club cricket at Sheffield Collegiate with Root’s dad Matt, and the pair have twice celebrated hundreds with one another this summer. “I was batting with him when he got his hundred at The Oval in the Thorpey Test match, and it was pretty special to be batting with him again when I got my first one,” Bethell said.Root, who went onto score 100 himself in England’s total of 414 for 5, described Bethell as "wise beyond his years”. He said: “He’s very clear on how he wants to play his cricket… I’ve known him for a long time – since he was eight years old – so for him to play an innings like that and get us in that position at the halfway stage was fantastic.”Related

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Bethell admitted before the start of play on Sunday morning that he “probably should have played more" domestic cricket around England’s Test series against India, but said that he had rediscovered his rhythm when he felt something "click" during an innings for Birmingham Phoenix in the Hundred last month.”I didn’t feel like I was hitting the ball badly at all, just the performances didn’t show, which sometimes happens in white-ball cricket,” he explained. “It is pretty tough to be consistent and score fast at the same time. It is nice that I managed to put performances together – and also a match-winning performance in this situation.”It’s just rhythm, I guess. You can watch as much cricket as you want and do stuff like that, but it is different when you’re out in the middle and I think it just took me a couple of games to get that back… I felt something click and from that point, I felt like I’d been playing nicely, but hadn’t quite got the results. Today and the other day, it was definitely nice to be back in the runs.”Bethell will deputise for Brook during England’s T20I series in Ireland later this month, and said he feels ready to become their youngest-ever captain. “A lot of players in that team captain themselves, almost,” he said. “It’s just about a bit of man management and marshalling the troops for a couple of days up in Ireland, which should be great fun.”