All posts by z3u9t.icu

It all comes down to this. The penultimate game of a largely forgettable season could be a defining one for Manchester United. A defining one for Ruben Amorim. A defining one for the INEOS regime.

A wretched Premier League campaign could well be salvaged by the club’s Europa League exploits, with the Red Devils capturing the spirit of days gone by to embark on a rollercoaster ride on the continent. This is no team of ’68, ’99, or ’08, but right them off at your peril.

From the outset, this has been an enthralling surge to the showpiece, be it the dramatic last-gasp equaliser from Harry Maguire to snatch a point against Porto, or Bruno Fernandes’ stoppage-time strike to see off Rangers.

In the knockout phase, in particular, the Old Trafford side have sparked a sea change in emotions, from a penalty-ridden triumph over Real Sociedad, to a surprisingly serene victory over Athletic Club in the last four.

Sandwiched in between was arguably one of the great nights that the Theatre of Dreams has witnessed, with Kobbie Mainoo and Maguire coming up trumps at the death to see off ten-man Lyon. Only United can conjure up moments like that.

For such a win to ultimately prove in vain would be deeply disappointing, with Amorim now tasked with picking a side capable of seeing off fellow top-flight bottom dwellers, Tottenham Hotspur, at San Mames.

The latest Man Utd team news

As journalist Samuel Luckhurst noted, this is the first time this season that the former Sporting CP boss named more than the typical 21 players in his travelling squad, with there perhaps a sense of cup final kidology in place with the Portuguese coach keeping his cards closely to his chest.

With the aforementioned Fernandes and Maguire taking on pre-match media duties alongside Amorim, the experienced pair look almost certain to start later today, with that central spine likely to be added to by Andre Onana and Casemiro.

The positions surrounding that quartet are likely to be up for grabs, however, with the 40-year-old’s options potentially enhanced amid the surprise return of Leny Yoro, Diogo Dalot and Joshua Zirkzee to training this week.

The latter duo had looked set to miss the rest of the campaign through injury, although they could now play their part in Bilbao, even if Amorim hinted that their minutes would be limited.

One man who was absent from proceedings was Matthijs de Ligt, thus throwing into doubt his involvement against Ange Postecoglou’s side, with fellow former Ajax man Lisandro Martinez also still a long-term absentee.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Excluding that pairing, Amorim appears to have a wealth of options at his disposal, leaving something of a selection headache to ponder – not least over who should start in the two number ten berths.

Who should start at number ten for Man Utd vs Spurs

There is an argument to be made that the centre-forward position could be set for change, with it perhaps time to contemplate dropping the misfiring Rasmus Hojlund to the bench, in favour of a false nine experiment.

That tweak could see Fernandes take on that role, while the 30-year-old could also drop into a deeper berth as part of a midfield two, with Amorim needing to decide whether he needs the defensive duo of Manuel Ugarte and Casemiro against an injury-hit Spurs midfield.

If Fernandes is to be needed elsewhere, then the number ten roles will be a straight fight between Mainoo, Mason Mount, Amad Diallo and Alejandro Garnacho, with the middle duo having been given the nod against Chelsea on Friday night.

That may have been with the final in mind, although with United having again failed to fire at Stamford Bridge, Amorim may need to think again, with Mount seemingly needing to give way for the lively Garnacho.

With Amad – who came closest to scoring against the Blues – almost a nailed-on starter off the right, it would be an exciting prospect to unleash the Argentine on the opposite side, the pair notably netting in the 4-3 defeat to Brentford earlier this month.

GK

Andre Onana

RCB

Leny Yoro

CB

Harry Maguire

LCB

Luke Shaw

RWB

Noussair Mazraoui

CM

Casemiro

CM

Bruno Fernandes

LWB

Patrick Dorgu

RAM

Amad Diallo

LAM

Mason Mount

ST

Rasmus Hojlund

Mount, to his credit, has enjoyed a resurgence of late after also scoring against the Bees, followed by his brace against Athletic Club, although those latter strikes did come off the bench, with it still yet to be seen if he can last the full game.

The Englishman does boast the experience of starting in this 3-4-3 formation in the Champions League final and European Championship final back in 2021, although he has rarely looked like that player for United, having scored just four goals in 44 games since his arrival in 2023.

Garnacho, meanwhile, has regularly delivered the goods in recent years despite his at times erratic finishing. Indeed, while still yet to turn 21, the wing wizard has scored 11 goals and provided ten assists in all competitions this term.

So often United’s “game-changer” – as per Luckhurst – the former Atletico Madrid starlet is such a relentless, direct threat for Amorim in the final third, having chipped in with four assists and one goal in the Europa League in 2024/25.

Yes, he has missed 20 ‘big chances’ in Europe and the top-flight combined, although the 20-year-old is a player who makes things happen in the final third, be it from the start or from the bench.

Starting Mount in his place still feels a real risk considering his injury woes and relatively recent return to action, while a partnership of Garnacho and Amad could have Spurs on the back foot from the off.

In any case, Amorim does appear to finally have attacking options to select from, with now the time for bravery, rather than pragmatism.

Amorim must now bench Hojlund to unleash Man Utd "genius" in new role

Man Utd are preparing for a season-defining game on Wednesday evening…

1 ByRobbie Walls May 21, 2025

Birmingham City are preparing for a return to the second-tier of English football and have now cast their eye to the continent for a potential bargain signing.

Birmingham City's summer activity ahead of Championship return underway

Quick off the mark after securing the League One title in remarkable fashion, Birmingham have already wrapped up the permanent signing of Phil Neumann.

Speaking ahead of featuring at St Andrews, German defender Neumann believes that the Blues can earn promotion to the Premier League following his move from Hannover on a free transfer.

He stated: “I always wanted to play in England. Birmingham is such a big club with a big history, and they fought hard for me and gave me a good feeling. I can’t wait to play my first game here, meet the fans and also meet my team-mates. It’s a nice stadium, a really nice pitch and I’m really happy to be here.

“I think the club is not where it belongs and hopefully I can help the club get back to the Premier League.”

Kwame Poku, Mark Travers and Harry Darling are all reported Birmingham targets, which lends credence to Neumann’s opinion that Birmingham have the power to become a Premier League force before too long.

Birmingham can make Stansfield better by signing "outstanding" EFL star

Birmingham City would look immediately more confident in attack in the Championship if they signed this outstanding forward.

ByKelan Sarson May 14, 2025

Nevertheless, the Championship is a major step up in quality for Chris Davies, who still has to make decisions on the future of Grant Hanley and Lee Myung-jae ahead of next campaign.

While he takes his time over potential departures, Birmingham are continuing to be active on the transfer front and are now advancing in their pursuit of a top-flight midfielder.

Birmingham in advanced talks for Kanya Fujimoto after offer

According to journalist Sebastiao Sousa-Pinto on X, Birmingham have submitted an offer for Gil Vicente attacking midfielder Kanya Fujimoto and talks are believed to be at an advanced stage.

It isn’t yet certain that he will end up at St Andrews, but steps are moving in the right direction to close a deal that would see him arrive on a free transfer following the expiration of his contract at the Primeira Liga outfit.

What can Birmingham City expect if Kanya Fujimoto arrives? (top-flight statistics)

Chances created

35

Successful dribbles

19

Touches in opposition box

74

Duels won

61

Shots

40

Shots on target

14

Earning a reputation as a forward-thinking asset, Fujimoto, 25, has registered five goals and six assists across 33 matches in all competitions this season.

Ultimately, Birmingham will need to balance spending considerable fees with finding value for money on the market in order to fulfill their aspirations of being a competitive force in the second-tier.

Fujimoto, who shares the same CAA Base agency as Ben Davies, is operating at a distinguished level and would be seen as a coup by many Championship onlookers, though it now remains to be seen whether the Blues can push a statement deal over the line.

Chelsea lost 2-0 to Newcastle United at St. James’ Park in the Premier League on Sunday, but they could still have a successful end to the 2024/25 campaign.

The Blues are fifth in the league, on course to qualify for the Champions League, and are in the final of the Conference League after their semi-final success over Djurgarden.

Enzo Maresca and the board, however, already have one eye on the upcoming summer transfer window, as the club have reportedly held talks to sign a LaLiga star.

Chelsea at the front of the queue to sign LaLiga star

According to The Boot Room, Chelsea are one of the teams eyeing up a deal to sign Athletic Club forward Nico Williams, and they have already held talks with his representatives over a move to Stamford Bridge.

Transfer Focus

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

The report claims that the Blues have had meetings with the player’s camp to convince him to make the move to England, but he is unwilling to make a final decision until the end of the season.

It also reveals that Arsenal and Chelsea are the two teams at the ‘front of the queue’ to land the Spain international, who is also of interest to Newcastle United, Manchester City, and Liverpool.

Possessing a reported release clause of £48m, it’s not a move that would totally break the bank, which is certainly good news.

If Williams does decide to move on from Athletic Club this summer, Maresca’s side appear to be well-positioned to swoop in, which should come as great news for Cole Palmer.

Why Nico Williams would be amazing with Cole Palmer

The Chelsea superstar would surely love it if the club signed the Spanish winger because they could be amazing together at the top end of the pitch next season and beyond.

Palmer, as evidenced by the 38 ‘big chances’ he has created in the Premier League since the start of last season, is an attacking midfielder who is constantly looking for a defence-splitting pass to create chances for his teammates.

Williams is a winger who has shown that he can finish chances effectively in LaLiga and in the Europa League this term, which suggests that he could make the most of the high-quality opportunities that the England international consistently creates.

Starts

21

12

xG

3.84

2.85

Goals

5

5

Big chances missed

2

2

Assists

5

2

As you can see in the table above, the Spanish sensation has outperformed his xG in both competitions, whilst only missing four ‘big chances’ in 33 matches.

These statistics suggest that he has the finishing quality to find the back of the net on a consistent basis if provided with the constant stream of ‘big chances’ that Palmer has proven he can create at Premier League level.

Williams, who was dubbed a “relentless” dribbler by analyst Ben Mattinson, would also come in as another young talent with room to improve at the age of 22, which means that the Spaniard and Palmer, 23, could be an exciting pairing for Chelsea for many, many, more year to come.

It is now down to the Blues to win the race for his signature in the summer transfer window because his electric pace and lethal finishing could make him an amazing partner for their creative maestro in the Premier League next season.

Bigger talent than George: Chelsea in talks to sign £42m "wonderkid"

Chelsea could be edging closer to signing a Bundesliga starlet

ByRoss Kilvington May 11, 2025

David Moyes has done a superb job after returning as Everton manager, leading the club out of immediate danger and maintaining their ever-present Premier League status for another season.

He was brought in to replace Sean Dyche back in January, taking the Toffees on a magnificent run that has seen them pull clear of any looming relegation threat.

The club have only suffered three defeats since the Scotsman arrived at Goodison Park, coming against current top four sides Chelsea, Manchester City and local rivals Liverpool.

However, this summer presents a new opportunity for the club as they prepare to move to the Bramley-Moore Dock stadium, allowing the hierarchy to take the side to the next level.

If they are to do just that in 2025/26, additions are needed during the summer transfer window, with moves already being made to hand Moyes the tools he desires.

An update on Everton’s hunt for new signings this summer

With the summer rapidly approaching, Everton have already wasted no time in targeting reinforcements, with Leicester City’s Wilfried Ndidi returning on their shortlist.

The Nigerian was a huge target 12 months ago, but extended his stay at the King Power, until the latest report claimed that interest has been reignited after the Foxes’ relegation – which has seen a £9m clause come into effect.

However, he’s not the only player currently on their radar, with Strasbourg striker Emanuel Emegha a player who could make a switch to Merseyside, according to TBR.

The report states the hierarchy have already been in talks with the Ligue 1 outfit over a potential deal, after his run, which has seen him net 14 goals in 28 appearances this campaign.

No fee has been mentioned for his services, but it does claim that Fulham, Brentford and West Ham United are also keen admirers of the 22-year-old Dutch talent.

Why Everton’s target would be an upgrade on Beto

Everton striker Beto created a list of excitement back in the summer of 2023 after joining the club in a £30m deal from Italian side Udinese – looking to provide an end to their hunt for a new striker.

However, the 27-year-old has endured a stop-start period on Merseyside, making 67 appearances during his two seasons, often being a back-up to Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

The Englishman’s injury struggles have allowed him a way back into the starting eleven, scoring six times in his 26 league outings in 2024/25 – sitting as their second in their top goalscoring charts.

He’s now failed to score in any of his last eight outings, leading to criticism from the supporters – casting doubt over his long-term future under the new ownership.

Given his lack of form, a potential move for Emegha would make huge sense, undoubtedly offering Moyes an upgrade on his current options and helping take the side up a level next year.

The Dutchman, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has notched more than double the number of goals and achieved a higher shot-on-target accuracy rate – highlighting his clinical nature in attacking areas.

He’s also completed more of the passes he’s attempted, whilst registering more progressive carries into the final third – handing Moyes a superb all-round option to help with link-up play.

Games played

26

26

Goals scored

14

6

Pass accuracy

81%

56%

Shot-on-target accuracy

57%

51%

Goals per shot-on-target

0.4

0.3

Carries into final third

1.3

0.6

Fouls won

1.5

1.3

Despite the interest from other English sides ahead of the summer, the Toffees may have to act quickly if they are to land his signature and improve the attacking department.

The lack of goals within the side is undoubtedly a cause for concern, with Moyes and the hierarchy needing to address the situation during the upcoming window.

Emegha would be a superb option for the club, having the opportunity to be the club’s star man upon their move to the new stadium, having the tools to improve further, given his tender age.

He could finally replace Onana: Everton lead the race for £10m "machine"

David Moyes is hoping to make a host of impactful signings at Everton this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Apr 29, 2025

If there is one thing Arsenal fans want this summer, it’s a striker.

Mikel Arteta’s side are in a marvellous position to do something spectacular in the Champions League this season, but their domestic campaign has been a real letdown, partly due to a lack of clinical finishing up top – they’ve scored 14 goals fewer than Liverpool in the Premier League.

So, it’s not been all that surprising that, over the last few months, the North Londoners have been linked with a whole host of prolific marksmen, most notably Alexander Isak.

However, with Newcastle United now looking likely to secure a spot in next year’s Champions League, it feels doubtful that the Gunners will be able to prise their star striker away from them this summer.

Fortunately, Arsenal appear to have already moved on from the former Real Sociedad star for another free-scoring forward, someone who might be a wiser signing anyway.

Transfer Focus

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

Arsenal's striker search

Before getting to the man in question, it’s worth looking at some of the other centre-forwards who have been linked with the North Londoners in recent weeks, such as Ollie Watkins.

The Aston Villa star was a surprise target for the club in the winter window, and new Sporting Director Andrea Berta is reportedly still interested in the Englishman; it’s not hard to see why, as he’s scored 16 goals and provided 13 assists in 48 appearances this term.

Another name that has popped up recently is Jonathan David, who will be a free agent in the summer and has reportedly held talks with the North Londoners quite recently.

The Canadian international has been enjoying an incredible season this year and has already amassed a tally of 25 goals and 11 assists in 45 games, although that still pales in comparison to the unreal Viktor Gyokeres.

Yes, the player in question is none other than the Sporting CP superstar, and according to a recent report from Portuguese outlet A Bola as relayed by Football Transfers, the North Londoners are now in ‘pole position’ to secure the Swede’s signature.

The report has revealed that the Gunners have stepped up their pursuit of the 26-year-old in the weeks following Berta’s appointment and that the former Coventry City star will be available for around €70m, which comes out to £60m.

It would still be a costly transfer to get over the line, but given Gyokeres’ incredible output, it is one worth completing and one that could be better than signing Isak.

Why Gyokeres would be a better signing that Isak

So, it’s no secret that Isak is one of the most exciting strikers in world football at the moment, and as such, we wouldn’t be surprised if most fans wanted the club to sign him or Gyokeres, but there are a few reasons why the latter would be the wiser acquisition.

The first is simply the cost involved, as even when it looked like the Toon would miss out on Champions League football, reports were coming out that they would demand around £150m for the talisman.

So now that the Magpies look set to play in Europe’s top competition next season, it would surely take a genuinely absurd offer to tempt them into selling, the sort of offer that would scupper the Gunners’ other summer plans.

So, it feels far more sensible to spend a fraction of that on the Sporting “powerhouse,” as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, and make sure that other top players are bought in to help bolster the squad in multiple areas.

Moreover, the second reason is that the Stockholm-born poacher has shown himself to be even more of a goal threat this season.

Appearances

46

38

Minutes

3700′

2977′

Goals

47

25

Assists

11

6

Goal Involvements per Match

1.26

0.81

Minutes per Goal Involvement

63.79′

96.03′

For example, in just 46 appearances, totalling 3700 minutes, he’s found the back of the net 47 times and provided 11 assists for good measure, which comes to an average of 1.26 goal involvements every game or one every 63.79 minutes.

In comparison, the Newcastle star has scored 25 goals and provided six assists in 38 appearances, totalling 2977 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.22 games or every 96.03 minutes.

Now, it is true that the Solna-born ace is playing in a tougher league, but even with that taken into consideration, Gyokeres’ level of output is astounding.

Finally, and this is important, Isak is an injury-prone player and has missed 39 games for club and country since the 22/23 season alone, whereas the Sporting dynamo has missed just five games across his entire career.

Ultimately, while Isak is a superb player, Gyokeres would be the better signing, as not only would he cost a fraction of the price, but he’s arguably just as dangerous, and his fitness record is near enough impeccable.

Their new Ian Wright: Arsenal want to sign "one of the best CFs in Europe"

Arsenal are looking at signing a striker who could be their next Ian Wright in north London.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Apr 22, 2025

Manchester United have “initiated a move” for a 21-year-old international defender who has impressed the club’s chiefs, according to a new report.

Man Utd defence still struggling as Onana dropped by Amorim

After a horribly poor start to his Old Trafford tenure, United were beginning to show signs of improvement under manager Ruben Amorim.

The Red Devils lost just two of their last 10 matches in all competitions, however, they fell to a heavy 4-1 defeat to Newcastle United in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon.

Amorim’s men continued to ship too many goals – even with Andre Onana being dropped at St James’ Park.

Onana continued to make errors between the sticks in the week as they were held to a 2-2 draw by French side Lyon in mid-week. The goalkeeper, who is unsettled at Old Trafford, has been heavily linked with a move away this summer.

However, injuries and a lack of both depth and quality in defence are also to blame, meaning United will no doubt need to strengthen in the summer if they are to continue their gradual improvement under Amorim.

Man Utd in talks for Basel defender Jonas Adjetey

One man who is reportedly interesting United as they look to bolster their options at the back in the summer is FC Basel centre back Jonas Adjetey.

According to a new report from Africa Foot, per Sports Witness, the Red Devils have already “initiated a move” by opening negotiations to sign the Ghana international, who they think of as “one of Europe’s most promising defenders.”

Despite being just 21, Adjetey has been a nailed-on starter for Basel this season, making 30 appearances across all competitions, and Africa Foot report that United have sent “emissaries” to watch him play on numerous occasions, and have been won over by his “immense potential.”

With talks open over a move to Old Trafford, there is no agreement yet on a potential fee for the youngster, who is valued at just £3.5 million by Transfermarkt.

According to Scout Europe, Adjetey “stands out for his physical attributes and his approach to the game.”

“Having developed in Basel’s youth system, his early step into the professional arena signals that his career is poised to shine even more in the coming years. After showcasing his talent in local competitions, Jonas seized the opportunity to prove himself at a renowned club like Basel in more competitive European leagues.

“From the moment he started playing in Basel’s first team, he emphasized his defensive positioning and aerial prowess, drawing attention with his disciplined defending and ability to read the game.”

Aston Villa will need to deliver the performance of a lifetime against PSG next week in order to reach the semi-finals of the Champions League.

The 3-1 loss at the Parc des Princes wasn’t the worst result in the world, but Unai Emery’s side are certainly up against it ahead of the second leg at Villa Park.

Despite the chance to do something special this season, the manager is also thinking about the future, as he looks to strengthen his squad during the summer transfer window.

Might Villa be set to raid Barcelona at the end of the campaign?

Aston Villa eye up move for Barcelona midfielder

According to a report from Spain, Villans sporting director Monchi is eyeing up a couple of players from Barcelona ahead of the summer window opening.

Andreas Christensen and Marc Casado are the two names mentioned as targets for the club, and both would be excellent signings, especially the latter.

The report goes on to state that Monchi has already made contact to hold ‘discreet discussions’ to bring the midfielder to the Premier League ahead of the 2025/26 season.

It wouldn’t be the first time that the club have signed a number six from a European giant, before turning him into a star; Douglas Luiz is a prime example.

Marc Casado could be Villa’s next Douglas Luiz

Luiz failed to make an impression at Manchester City before Villa came calling and transformed him into one of the best midfielders in the top flight.

Last season, the Brazilian was sublime. In the Premier League, Luiz created ten big chances, averaged 1.5 key passes per game, and succeeded with 60% of his dribbles, highlighting how effective he was going forward.

Goals

9

Assists

5

Big chances created

10

Total duels won per game

4.2

Tackles per game

1.7

Shots per game

1.4

Casado might not be at those sorts of levels quite yet, having registered just three big chances created in La Liga, along with averaging 0.4 key passes per game and succeeding with 50% of his dribble attempts.

Given time, however, there is no doubt the 21-year-old could turn into a player that will register the sort of statistics that Luiz did last season for the club.

The Barcelona starlet is an excellent passer, ranking in the top 7% for passes attempted (75) per 90 and in the top 6% for pass completion percentage (89.8%) per 90 when compared to his peers in the Spanish top flight this season.

Furthermore, when compared to positional peers in the Champions League this term, Casado ranks in the top 17% for progressive passes (5.98) and in the top 24% for goal-creating actions (0.34) per 90.

Given his age and potential for development, these statistics should get even better with age, no doubt about that.

The midfielder has even won two caps for Spain and was praised by teammate Bryan Zaragoza after the tie against Switzerland in November 2024.

Zaragoza said: “He’s an animal. I don’t even know what to say about how he played. He’s barbaric.”

A move to Villa might just allow Casado to flourish in the Premier League and ensure the club sign Douglas Luiz 2.0 in the process.

Emery struck gold on Aston Villa star worth more than Doue & Kvaratskhelia

Aston Villa made a brilliant investment with this player

ByJoe Nuttall Apr 11, 2025

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been dealt another blow with an injured star now facing several weeks on the sidelines.

Arsenal navigate plethora of injuries to top Premier League table

Considering the sheer number of key first team players who’ve been sidelined at various points already this season, Arsenal’s position at the top of the Premier League table is all the more impressive.

The Gunners have endured a torrid season with injuries, much like last campaign, which has severely tested Arteta’s squad depth.

While Arsenal have still begun the campaign very strongly, and are unbeaten in their last 18 matches across all competitions, their relentless succession of fitness problems has affected big-name personnel across multiple positions.

Arsenal 3-0 Nottingham Forest

Athletic Bilbao 0-2 Arsenal

Arsenal 1-1 Man City

Port Vale 0-2 Arsenal

Newcastle 1-2 Arsenal

Arsenal 2-0 Olympiacos

Arsenal 2-0 West Ham

Fulham 0-1 Arsenal

Arsenal 4-0 Atlético Madrid

Arsenal 1-0 Crystal Palace

Arsenal 2-0 Brighton

Burnley 0-2 Arsenal

Slavia Prague 0-3 Arsenal

Sunderland 2-2 Arsenal

Arsenal 4-1 Tottenham

Arsenal 3-1 Bayern Munich

Chelsea 1-1 Arsenal

Arsenal 2-0 Brentford

August proved particularly damaging, with Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, Ben White and William Saliba all sustaining injuries.

Odegaard’s MCL knee injury against West Ham in early October proved especially problematic, keeping the captain out for nearly two months and robbing Arsenal of their creative heartbeat during crucial fixtures.

Gabriel Magalhaes remains absent for weeks following a thigh injury sustained during Brazil’s November friendly against Senegal. His regular partner Saliba has battled recurring problems, missing recent matches against Chelsea and Brentford due to an unspecified knock.

Arsenal handed Declan Rice injury twist after pre-Aston Villa update

The England international has been their arguable player of the season.

ByEmilio Galantini 6 days ago

Summer signing Cristhian Mosquera compounds Arteta’s concerns after suffering a ‘complicated’ ankle injury that will require further testing to determine his recovery timeline.

Declan Rice provided fresh worries after limping off late against Brentford with a calf problem, and while the England midfielder insisted he felt “fine” ready to play against Aston Villa this afternoon, Arteta suggests he’s subject to a late fitness test.

Leandro Trossard has missed matches with muscular issues but should return within ‘days’ according to Arteta’s latest briefing, with the same going for Saliba.

Havertz suffered a setback in his knee rehabilitation and won’t return until possibly late December, while Gabriel Jesus finally returned to contention recently after missing nearly a year recovering from an ACL tear.

Summer signing Noni Madueke was out for two months after knee damage against Man City in September, though scans cleared him of cruciate ligament damage. The winger has since returned to action, providing Arteta with a renewed attacking threat.

That is a staggering 10 first-team stars who’ve been sidelined at various points, or still are, with a pretty concerning update now coming to light on Mosquera’s condition.

Cristhian Mosquera facing eight weeks out after Arsenal injury blow

The Spaniard was forced off early doors during Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Brentford in midweek, and according to BBC journalist Sami Mokbel, Mosquera now faces ‘at least’ six weeks out through injury in ‘another blow’ to Arsenal.

The key phrase there is ‘at least’, and it could be as long as two months, with Saliba’s fitness now becoming more crucial than ever.

If the Frenchman is still unable to start, then Arteta will have little choice but to play Jurrien Timber alongside Piero Hincapie for this afternoon’s crunch clash against Villa in the Midlands.

White would then likely be handed his second consecutive league start at right-back for the first time since May, with Arsenal’s strength in depth now set to play an even more pivotal role in their quest to win a first league title in 22 years.

It is important to note that the timeframe for Mosquera’s injury lay-off are initial concerns from within Arsenal, with the ex-Valencia starlet set for further testing to determine his exact recovery timeline.

It is a blow for the centre-back personally after his fine start to life at N5, despite having to contend with being a back-up to Arteta’s first-choice centre-back pairing.

Arsenal believe Mosquera could become one of the best centre-backs in world football in a few years, according to some reports, and nothing we’ve seen so far disproves that theory.

Patrick Dorgu’s Manchester United career so far was summed up in one moment on Monday evening against Everton.

A rare piece of attacking quality saw Joshua Zirkzee flash a ball across the box in the first half, and with Dorgu perfectly positioned at the backpost, the chance was there for the 21-year-old to fire home his first goal for the club following his January arrival from Lecce.

Just days on from cooly converting in Denmark’s eventual 4-2 defeat to Scotland in World Cup qualification, the young wing-back could not repeat the feat, instead lashing his attempt wide in what has, unfortunately, almost become trademark fashion.

Like against Manchester City – where Dorgu had more touches in the opposition box than any other player (12) – he routinely gets himself into promising openings, although is simply unable to make the most of it, having registered just two assists in 32 games under Ruben Amorim to date.

In truth, the left-footer is drifting into Rasmus Hojlund territory as a promising, but raw Danish arrival from Serie A who has almost been made first-choice in his position too soon, with little in the way of competition.

Thankfully, Amorim might well have an in-house solution, although it will continue to irk supporters that £30m was splashed out on Dorgu, while a certain Alvaro Carreras departed for just £5m a year earlier.

How Dorgu & Carreras compare this season

One of the most head-scratching decisions of the Erik ten Hag reign remains the choice not to hand an opportunity to Carreras at senior level, with the young Spaniard never actually making a first-team appearance before his eventual departure – initially on loan – to Benfica in January 2024.

Despite notably claiming Preston North End’s Young Player of the Year award following a standout 2022/23 season in the second tier, Ten Hag repeatedly overlooked the academy asset, even amid the long-term absences of Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia.

In 2023/24, for instance, the Dutchman tried numerous, makeshift options at left-back, ranging from Sofyan Amrabat to Victor Lindelof, making it all the more puzzling that Carreras remained out in the cold.

Still only 22 years old, the Real Madrid youth product is now flourishing back at the Bernabeu, having re-joined his former employers on a £42m deal over the summer.

Comfortable at left wing-back or left-back, Carreras has started 16 of Madrid’s 17 games in LaLiga and the Champions League this season, scoring a belting effort in the 4-0 win over Valencia.

Notably likened to new teammate Trent Alexander-Arnold for his attacking, creative quality from the flanks, the Ferrol-born starlet looks like a real upgrade on Dorgu on current evidence, with United left looking red-faced over their handling of him.

Initially signed as a 16-year-old in 2020 – the same time in which Alejandro Garnacho arrived from Atletico Madrid – Carreras will seemingly remain a case of what might have been as far as the Red Devils are concerned.

Games (starts)

13 (13)

11 (7)

Goals

1

0

Assists

0

1

Big chances created

1

2

Key passes*

1.2

0.8

Pass accuracy*

90%

73%

Successful dribbles*

0.5

0.3

Tackles*

1.3

2.1

Interceptions*

1.5

0.9

Total duels won*

48%

51%

Hopefully, a similar scenario doesn’t occur under the new INEOS regime.

Man Utd's "stream train" can derail Dorgu's Man Utd stay

Question marks remain over the midfield unit and number nine berth at Old Trafford, but perhaps the biggest issue for Amorim – and INEOS – is at wing-back, not least on the left.

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The fact that the Portuguese frequently opts to deploy Diogo Dalot in that role is both damning on the club’s squad building, but also on Dorgu, with the more natural option hardly pulling up any trees down that side.

Dorgu isn’t even a year into his Old Trafford stay, but questions are beginning to be asked of his suitability and quality for Premier League football, with his woes highlighted by the fact that he ranks in the bottom 8% of top-flight full-backs for pass completion, as well as in the bottom 3% for progressive passes per 90, as per FBref.

It simply isn’t working right now on that left flank, hence why a chance could arise for 18-year-old summer arrival, Diego Leon, with the Paraguayan still waiting for his first chance at senior level in Manchester.

Like Carreras, Leon has been plucked as a promising teenager with one eye on the future, with a deal having initially been struck with his former club Cerro Porteno in January.

Signed for a fee of around £6m, the bulldozing defender has featured in matchday squads this season, albeit without getting onto the pitch, having largely operated for the U21 side to date.

There is a danger that he could follow in Carreras’ footsteps as an almost forgotten figure in the academy set-up, yet much like in Ten Hag’s tenure, there is a left-sided issue to be solved – Amorim needs to be brave.

Leon, of course, is unproven and untested in English football, but he’s no stranger to life in the first-team, having scored four times in just 33 games back in his native Paraguay.

Already capped at senior level for his country too, the teen full-back appears to have the physical capabilities to be able to thrive in the Premier League, with analyst Ben Mattinson suggesting that he runs “like a steam train”.

That pace and power was evident during Leon’s stunning, solo goal against Tottenham Hotspur’s U21 side, picking the ball inside his own half and driving into the opposition box to convert.

Also described by Mattinson as a “physical, explosive, marauding” left-back who is “similar to a Patrick Dorgu type”, Leon will hopefully showcase the best of what Dorgu has to offer, but with far greater end product.

The over-reliance and burden on Dorgu has gone on too long, with the ex-Lecce man having seemingly regressed rather than progressed under Amorim’s watch.

Time is on his side, but with an even younger, high-potential talent like Leon waiting in the wings, he might already be on borrowed time.

Mainoo 2.0: Man Utd can axe Ugarte for one of England's "best young players"

Manchester United’s midfield needs an overhaul – thankfully Carrington has the solution…

ByRobbie Walls Nov 22, 2025

Leeds United are back in action in the Premier League this weekend for the last time before the last international break of 2025 as they face Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.

The Whites were beaten 3-0 by Brighton & Hove Albion on their travels last time out in the top-flight, in what was the latest in a string of dismal away performances.

Matches

5

Wins

1

Draws

0

Losses

4

Goals scored

3

Goals conceded

12

Points

3

League rank

17th

As you can see in the table above, Daniel Farke’s side have struggled badly on the road in the Premier League so far this season, with three points from five matches.

Their only win away from Elland Road came against Wolverhampton Wanderers, who have no wins, two draws, and eight defeats in their ten matches home and away this term.

Leeds will, therefore, need to step up and improve on the majority of their performances away from home in the division if they want to pick up any points against the Tricky Trees on Sunday.

Nottingham Forest, who are currently managed by Sean Dyche, have plenty of talented players who could cause the Whites problems if they are not at their best.

The Forest players Leeds have to be wary of

The Europa League outfit have a plethora of expensive attacking players who could test Lucas Perri in the Leeds goal if they get past the likes of Joe Rodon and Jaka Bijol.

Dan Ndoye, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Igor Jesus, Morgan Gibbs-White, Omari Hutchinson, Taiwo Awoniyi, Elliot Anderson, the list goes on. Dyche has so many talented players at his disposal.

Hutchinson cost £37.5m, Anderson cost £35m, and Ndoye cost £34m. That is just a taste of the kind of spending power that they have been able to flex in recent seasons to build an exciting squad.

Igor Jesus – 5

Morgan Gibbs-White – 3

Chris Wood – 3

Dan Ndoye – 1

Morgan Gibbs-White – 2

Ryan Yates – 1

Dan Ndoye – 2

Elliot Anderson – 1

Callum Hudson-Odoi – 1

Douglas Luiz – 1

Neco Williams – 1

Omari Hutchinson – 1

Nicolo Savona – 1

As you can see in the table above, Leeds will need to be wary of Jesus and Gibbs-White, in particular, whilst former Whites centre-forward Chris Wood is currently out through injury.

Gibbs-White has provided quality as both a scorer and a creator of goals for the Tricky Trees in all competitions this season, after a return of seven goals and eight assists in the 2024/25 campaign, per Sofascore.

The England international did, however, miss a penalty in Forest’s 0-0 draw with Sturm Graz in the Europa League on Thursday night, which could knock his confidence ahead of their clash with Leeds on Sunday.

Whilst the Championship champions need to be wary of the former Wolves star, Farke could unleash his own version of Gibbs-White by dropping Ao Tanaka from the starting line-up.

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The Japan international started the 3-0 defeat to Brighton last time out and should be dropped to allow German central midfielder Anton Stach to return to the side, to provide a threat at the top end of the pitch.

Why Leeds should drop Ao Tanaka for Anton Stach

Per Sofascore, the Japanese midfielder did not register a single shot, key pass, or ‘big chance’ created against Brighton, which shows that he did not have any positive impact in the final third.

On top of his failure to provide quality in possession, Tanaka also failed to win a single tackle and only won one duel in 61 minutes on the pitch for the Whites, as he offered little to the side as a defensive or physical presence.

The former Fortuna Düsseldorf star has no goals, no assists, and no ‘big chances’ created in eight appearances and four starts in the Premier League this season, per Sofascore, which does not suggest that he is likely to cause Forest too many problems on Sunday.

Stach, on the other hand, has shown that he can provide moments of quality at the top end of the pitch that can win points for his side, when he is at his best.

In fact, the summer signing from Hoffenheim scored in the club’s only away win in the Premier League this season, with a stunning free-kick against Wolves in the Midlands.

Stach also came off the bench against Brighton and won four of his four duels and completed both of his attempted dribbles, per Sofascore, in just 30 minutes on the pitch, which suggests that he may be ready to come back into the starting line-up after such a bright cameo.

The towering central midfielder may not be a diminutive style of playmaker like Gibbs-White, but their respective performances this season suggest that he can be Leeds United’s own version of the Forest star.

Appearances

9

10

xG

0.88

1.90

Goals

1

1

Big chances missed

1

2

Key passes per game

1.6

1.1

Big chances created

2

2

Assists

1

1

Dribbles completed per game

0.7

0.6

As you can see in the table above, the Whites star has been even more creative than Gibbs-White, with 0.5 more key passes per game, whilst scoring as many goals from less xG in the Premier League.

Stach, who was once hailed as “underrated” by writer Bence Bocsák, and Gibbs-White are both midfield players who can make an impact in the final third as scorers and creators, which is why they are difference-makers for their respective teams.

Tanaka, unfortunately, has yet to prove that he can be a difference-maker at Premier League level, with no goal contributions this season, which is why he should be the man to drop out of the XI to bring the German back into the side to face Forest this weekend.

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Hopefully, if Stach returns to the team, he can shine and outperform Gibbs-White to help the Whites to their second win on the road in the division this term.