All posts by rastrear-estafeta.com

Arsenal are expected to bid for an "underrated" Mikel Arteta target imminently, as they plan their next summer signing after Riccardo Calafiori.

Edu and Arteta eyeing three more key arrivals for Arsenal

After securing a new option for their back line, and a very promising one at that in Calafiori, sporting director Edu Gaspar and the wider recruitment team will be weighing their next move as the latter phase of this transfer window approaches.

Edu focused on signing £60m star after previous claim he wants Arsenal move

The Brazilian is working to bring in a new striker.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Jul 30, 2024

Just five weeks remain for Arteta and Edu to get Arsenal's remaining top transfer targets over the line, as they prepare for a third-time-lucky attempt to win the Premier League title and get the better of Man City.

The Gunners pushed Pep Guardiola's side all the way to the final day last season, narrowly missing out on their first domestic crown in 20 years, and supporters will be keen to see Arsenal shore up the squad to go that one step further.

Calafiori, who can play both centrally and as a full-back, was announced as the club's first outfield signing of the window earlier this week – after the Italian put pen to paper on a five-year contract at the Emirates Stadium.

It has been claimed that Arsenal also want a new goalkeeper, midfielder and forward through the door before deadline day on August 30. Arsenal are apparently still in talks with Wolves over Daniel Bentley for a new option between the sticks, while Arteta continues to register a serious interest in striker Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting Lisbon.

Napoli star Victor Osimhen has also been subject to an Arsenal approach, according to Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport, so it will be interesting to see if Arteta finally gets an out-and-out number nine through the door.

Stats (per 90)

Gyokeres

Osimhen

Non-Penalty Expected Goals + Assists

0.82

0.66

Non-Penalty Goals + Assists

1.05

0.68

Progressive Passes

1.57

1.05

Progressive Carries

3.52

1.55

Shots

3.37

3.86

Shots on Target

1.64

1.63

Passing Accuracy

71.7%

66.9%

Shot-Creating Actions

4.08

2.45

Goal-Creating Actions

0.65

0.36

Successful Take-Ons

2.10

0.73

Aerial Duels Won

1.91

1.68

There is also the matter of a potential new midfielder, who may well act as a replacement for the exit-bound Thomas Partey. The Ghanian has been heavily linked with a move away from Arsenal this window, with clubs in Saudi Arabia showing interest in signing Partey and bringing an end to his four-year stay at London Colney.

Arsenal expected to bid for Mikel Merino imminently

Real Sociedad star and Spain midfielder Mikel Merino, who impressed on-lookers with his displays at Euro 2024, is being repeatedly mentioned by the press as a top target for Arteta.

There have even been reports that Arteta is personally trying to convince Merino to join Arsenal, with The Mirror and senior sports reporter Dan Marsh sharing an update on their chase for the 28-year-old.

They claim that Arsenal are expected to bid for Merino imminently as Edu and Arteta attempt to bring in a new midfield man. The former Newcastle star, called "underrated" by Football Analyst Ben Mattinson, made 45 appearances in all competitions for Sociedad last season – scoring eight goals and registering five assists.

A deal for Merino could cost around £25 million, with the Spaniard now in the final 12 months of his contract.

During Arsenal's pre-season tour of America, there was a new arrival in the camp. Sporting a rather luscious head of hair, Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori was introduced to the squad.

Already boasting fluent English, he spoke to his new teammates of his desire to win trophies and to do something special this forthcoming season.

He will have to wait to find out whether that dream becomes a reality, but another few signings would certainly do no harm in Mikel Arteta's plan to finally topple Manchester City.

Arsenal's next summer signing

The Gunners have already ticked off a new defender this summer but they have more work to do. A striker could still arrive and there is also a hope that they can bring in a winger.

Spain superstar Nico Williams has been a priority target while there have also been links to Wolves' Pedro Neto.

For now, though, the focus is on adding a central midfielder to the group. That happens to be Williams' colleague at international level, Mikel Merino.

The scorer of a wonderful stooping header against Germany in the dying embers at Euro 2024, Merino has quickly attracted the eye of Arsenal's recruitment team.

It's now reported that a deal is moving closer. That's according to Fabrizio Romano who claimed this weekend that the Spaniard has 'agreed to join Arsenal' and is appealed by the idea of working alongside Arteta.

Previous reports suggest a deal in the region of £25m has been agreed between the Londoners and LaLiga side Real Sociedad.

How Merino compares to Jack Wilshere

It's safe to say that the Sociedad star has come a long way since his previous days in the Premier League with Newcastle United.

While with the Toon, the midfielder played just 25 times, scoring once and supplying one assist. It was a far-from-spectacular stint in English football.

Since then, he has developed into a remarkably consistent and underrated footballer. Last season, while playing as a forward-thinking central option, the 28-year-old was prolific with his attacking involvements.

He scored eight goals and provided five assists. On that evidence, he looks perfect for the left 8 role Arsenal have needed to fill.

Yet, how does a player standing at 6 foot 2 compare to a diminutive 5 foot 8 Jack Wilshere? Well, they're both left-footed midfielders for a start.

We're not lazy enough to leave things there, however, as the comparison stems from their play style.

While Merino has been hailed for his "monster" ability to win duels, something highlighted by analyst Ben Mattinson last season, he is blessed with similar technical tools to that man Wilshere.

Just watch the clip below. Does it remind you of anyone? Merino is like a taller version of Arsenal's famed Hale End graduate. The way he manipulates the ball with his left foot and glides past a player is certainly reminiscent to one of the club's best-ever academy graduates.

Wilshere was never a regular goalscorer or assister but the two players here are clearly very progressive with their actions.

Last term, the Arsenal target ranked among the best 15% of positionally similar players in LaLiga for progressive passes per 90 minutes. He was also in the top 23% for through balls.

#1 Ethan Nwaneri

15 years, 5 months, 28 days

2022: Brentford

#2 Cesc Fabregas

16 years, 5 months, 24 days

2003: Rotherham

#3 Jack Wilshere

16 years, 8 months, 12 days

2008: Blackburn

#4 Jermaine Pennant

16 years, 10 months, 15 days

1999: Middlesbrough

#5 Paul Vaessen

16 years, 11 months, 11 days

1978: Lokomotive Leipzig

#6 Ryan Smith

16 years, 11 months, 18 days

2003: Rotherham

#7 Gedion Zelalem

16 years, 11 months, 29 days

2014: Coventry

#8 Armand Traore

17 years, 16 days

2006: West Brom

Interestingly though, is the rate at which the two players in question were fouled. We've mentioned that ability to weave past a player with ease and it's because of that attribute that they are more likely to win a foul.

In 2023/24, Merino was fouled 2.21 times per 90 minutes, which placed him in the best 12% for that metric in Spain's top flight.

Wilshere in his prime? Well, midway through the 2017/18 campaign he was officially the most fouled player in the Premier League, being taken out 3.59 times per 90.

So, while totally different in builds, there are some striking similarities there, similarities that should well improve Arsenal's midfield.

Arsenal struck gold on "phenomenal" star who's worth way more than Merino

The incredible player has been a game-changer since his arrival.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 18, 2024

Glasgow Rangers have played two games so far this season and failed to win any of them, although one result will have suited the Ibrox side better than the other.

Indeed, the opening Premiership draw with Hearts was a disappointing way to begin the campaign, with improvements needed against Motherwell on Saturday afternoon.

The midweek tie with Dynamo Kyiv may not have offered a much greater performance, but scoring a last-minute equaliser against the Ukrainian side will surely boost the confidence heading into the second leg next week.

A victory against Motherwell at the Light Blues’ temporary home of Hampden Park tomorrow will set the club up nicely for the return tie against Kyiv.

Philippe Clement could make three changes from his midweek starting XI, especially with the matches coming thick and fast…

1 GK – Jack Butland

The Englishman is the undisputed number one at Ibrox these days since making the move from the Premier League last summer.

A wonderful debut season elevated his reputation and he kept the Light Blues in the tie against Hearts last weekend, making several vital stops.

He will be crucial during the early stages of the season as Clement begins to form his preferred starting XI. If the Gers can maintain pace with Celtic until after the transfer window shuts, then they will be in a decent place heading into January.

2 RB – James Tavernier

The captain was heavily linked with an exit prior to the season starting last week, yet it appears as though he is remaining in Glasgow, for another year at least.

There is no doubting his attacking input. Last year, Tavernier scored a career high best of 24 goals across all competitions for the club. While his goal to win the League Cup in December was a wonderful moment, this was as good as it got for the Gers in terms of trophies won.

His mentality was certainly called into question during the title run-in a few months ago, especially as the Light Blues lost to Motherwell, Ross County and Celtic twice.

Improvement is needed defensively. Can the Englishman silence the critics?

3 CB – John Souttar

Souttar’s injury problems finally look like they are behind him after a more consistent second season at Ibrox.

With Connor Goldson departing the club this summer, the Scot is now one of the first-choice centre-backs, starting both the league opener and first-leg Champions League qualifier.

Against his former club last week, Souttar finished the tie with a 92% pass success rate while losing possession just five times. Another performance like this tomorrow wouldn’t go amiss.

4 CB – Robin Propper

The Dutchman, signed from Twente last week, has yet to make his debut for Rangers, but this could change on Saturday.

Leon Balogun is 36 and shouldn’t be expected to play every game, meaning Propper will come into the starting XI to partner Souttar against Motherwell in the first alteration from midweek.

5 LB – Ridvan Yilmaz

With Borna Barisic finally leaving Scotland after a six-year spell in Glasgow, Yilmaz is now the first choice left-back, a spot which he has been groomed for since joining two years ago.

He still has plenty to learn, but with a consistent run in the first team free from injuries, then this could be his year, no doubt about it.

6 CM – Dujon Sterling

The versatile player was exceptional when called upon last term, featuring across six different positions overall.

Against Motherwell, Clement may move him into a midfield role as he looks to add some stability to the position, in what would be the second change from Tuesday's stalemate.

This will mean Connor Barron could have a new partner for the first time during 2024/25, and it will be interesting to see how they perform together.

7 CM – Connor Barron

The summer arrival has started both of the club’s first two games of the season as it looks like Clement has big plans for the youngster.

He is a readymade replacement for the recently departed Ryan Jack in the heart of the midfield, arriving on a free transfer too, signifying great business by the Belgian tactician.

In a couple of years, he could well make Rangers a substantial profit, that’s for sure.

8 RW – Ross McCausland

A breakthrough season for the Northern Irishman last year saw him score four goals and grab five assists for the senior side, thriving on the right wing.

With the arrival of Vaclav Cerny, he has more competition on the flank this term, but it will be a challenge he is up for.

Clement will unleash him from the very beginning against the Steelmen.

9 AM – Mohamed Diomande

The introduction of Sterling could see Tom Lawrence drop to the bench as Clement may move Diomande into a more advanced position this time around.

The Welshman has started both matches of the season thus far and could do with a breather, allowing the Ivorian the chance to showcase his excellent attacking abilities just behind the striker.

If he performs well, could this see Diomande cement a spot as the club’s main attacking midfielder?

10 LW – Jefte

The Brazilian left-back might not push Yilmaz out of the starting XI anytime soon, but there is a chance for him to stake a claim as the main option on the left wing, having been lauded for having a “thunderous strike in his arsenal” by Rangers Journal founder Kai Watson amid the links to the player back in January.

Indeed, he scored three goals and grabbed four assists on loan at APOEL Nicosia last term, while coming on for Scott Wright in midweek, pushing forward at all opportunities.

With limited options, Clement could take a gamble on starting the youngster in a new role as the third personnel change following Tuesday's draw.

Nottingham Forest are interested in signing a forward who Virgil van Dijk says "has everything", seeing him as an alternative to Santiago Gimenez.

Nottingham Forest miss out on Gimenez

The Reds have suffered a setback with one high-profile transfer target, with a move for Feyenoord striker Gimenez possibly not materialising after plenty of interest emerged in him from the Premier League side.

The Mexican looked like a hugely exciting option for Forest, considering what a key performer he was for his current club last season, scoring 23 goals in just 29 starts in the Eredivisie, as well as netting twice in four appearances in the Champions League.

With Gimenez potentially no longer a target for Nuno Espirito Santo's side between now and the end of the summer transfer window this week, having rejected a switch to the City Ground, they could do with finding an alternative target.

It looks as though they may have found that player, with a new report suggesting as much, as Forest look to give themselves the best possible chance of enjoying a solid Premier League campaign.

Nottingham Forest eyeing attacker who "has everything"

According to Football Insider, Nottingham Forest are now "ready to turn their attention" to signing Ajax striker Brian Brobbey this summer, looking to acquire his signature before the window closes on Friday.

The Reds have "set their sights" on the Feyenoord ace, seeing him as an ideal option in place of Gimenez, but with his contract not expiring until 2027, the report does state that "it would take a big fee to try and prise him away from Amsterdam".

Brobbey stands out as a shrewd option for Forest in the coming days, and if they were able to entice him to the club, it could make up for the blow of missing out on the prolific Gimenez.

The Ajax ace is a top-quality player in his own right, and still only 22 years of age, scoring 49 goals and registering 19 assists for Ajax to date, as well as winning three caps for the Netherlands. His international captain Van Dijk has spoken highly about his compatriot's qualities, too, saying:

"I think he’s a great boy. He is a great talent and basically has everything. He is fast, strong and can finish well. He had said in an interview that he would score against us, but luckily, we were able to prevent that. He can be a very good weapon [for the World Cup], but it’s up to the national coach."

Forest signing Brobbey may feel like a real coup, given his international pedigree and the praise he has received from such a huge player in Van Dijk, and he scored a combined 31 league goals in the 2022/23 and 2023/24 seasons combined.

Ajax

124

49

19

Ajax Under-19s

41

37

7

Ajax Under-21s

34

17

5

Ajax Under-17s

25

26

6

RB Leipzig

14

0

3

The £48,000-a-week Dutchman may only improve, too, given his tender years, so the idea of him in a Reds shirt for many years to come is an exciting prospect for Reds supporters.

Liverpool have reportedly suffered another injury scare to a "world class" player this week, with his international manager unsure about the severity of the issue.

Slot thriving with fully fit Liverpool squad

The Reds' final season under Jurgen Klopp was an exciting one for much of the campaign, but their Premier League title challenge ended up petering out, with injuries not helping. Liverpool had to make do without key players for big chunks of the season, with Alisson missing plenty of games in goal and Diogo Jota in and out of the side, while even the robust Mohamed Salah was sidelined with fitness issues at the start of 2024.

Under Arne Slot, however, the Merseysiders have had an almost clean bill of health in 2024/25 to date, allowing the new head coach to field his strongest possible starting lineup three matches in a row. Curtis Jones has been the only absentee of note, but even he is only expected to be out for a short amount of time.

However, Harvey Elliott has recently returned to Liverpool from England Under-21s duty, in order to receive a "further medical assessment", and now a more established and high-profile player could also be threatened by a period on the sidelines, following a new update.

"World class" Liverpool ace suffers injury scare

According to This Is Anfield's Jack Lusby on X, Liverpool hero Alexis Mac Allister went off with a "heavy knock" for Argentina against Chile on Friday morning, having opened the scoring for the reigning world champions in their 3-0 win, with manager Lionel Scaloni unsure about his involvement against Colombia next Tuesday.

The hope is that Mac Allister's injury was nothing too serious and that he was substituted to be safe, but Liverpool fans will be understandably fretting over the news given it's clearly bad enough to place his availability for the next game in doubt.

The 25-year-old is known to be on the receiving end of bad tackles in games, putting himself into precarious situations with his bravery and tough tackling, and to suddenly have him unavailable for an extended period would be a massive blow.

Garth Crooks has described Mac Allister as "world class" in the past, such is his ability, while Klopp heaped praise on him last season: "He is a super important player for us, a wonderful boy.

"I met his dad after the game. He said thank you, I said gracias. That was the full conversation! I said hola as well and then my Spanish ends. Wonderful player, wonderful boy and really happy for Liverpool that we got him."

Liverpool hit gold with "generational talent” who’s worth more than Salah

Arne Slot is crafting a spectacular team…

ByAngus Sinclair Sep 6, 2024

Hopefully, Scaloni won't even consider risking the £150,000-a-week Mac Allister against Luis Diaz's Colombia, as Slot hopes to have him available for next Saturday's Premier League clash with Nottingham Forest at Anfield.

One of Aston Villa boss Unai Emery's personal targets now wants to join Arsenal instead, with the Gunners also "seriously" keen on signing him for Mikel Arteta.

Edu's rumoured Arsenal transfer plans for 2025

Despite being fresh off the back of a thrilling summer window, it is believed that sporting director Edu Gaspar and the recruitment team are already devising transfer plans for 2025.

Arsenal hold extensive internal talks over signing £86m starlet for Arteta

He’s very highly regarded in north London.

ByEmilio Galantini Sep 12, 2024

By his own admission, Edu revealed in an interview with Brazilian publication Estadao earlier this year (via football.london) that weeks of detailed planning is put towards every potential new signing – with reports of more than 180 pages on a single player alone.

News of Arteta agreeing a new Arsenal contract will help in this regard, as the Spaniard is no longer set to leave in 2025, with both the Arsenal manager and Edu now set to share the same transfer vision for much longer and carry on building the squad.

"You can’t sign players for the sake of signing. This has to be a process that takes weeks and weeks. There on my desk, I have reports with more than 180 pages on a player," said Edu on Arsenal's transfer strategy in May.

"It’s really detailed stuff. Physical, technical, mental profile, if you have Premier League experience, if you will be able to adapt. It has everything.

"We analyse our weaknesses, where we can improve, where we can invest and then we go in search of that new name. What I am going to do now, we have been discussing since January. It’s not my decision or Mikel’s alone. It belongs to a whole group."

Therefore, it is little surprise we're already seeing reports of Arsenal's potential new targets for next year. Edu is said to be targeting Bayern Munich star Alphonso Davies, and Arsenal could make a pre-contract offer in January to sign him for free next summer, as his contract is set to expire in 2025.

Elsewhere, Arsenal have held extensive internal talks over Jorrel Hato, with the Dutch defender earning admirers from within the club. There is also the matter of a new world-class striker, which Arsenal ultimately didn't land in the summer window, despite a widely-reported offer for RB Leipzig starlet Benjamin Sesko.

Despite missing out on the Slovenian, there is a belief that Arsenal are laying some groundwork to sign Sesko next summer instead, with contact already made ahead of a potential 2025 move.

Javi Guerra keen on joining Arsenal over Aston Villa

Now, according to CaughtOffside, it is believed young Valencia midfielder Javi Guerra is attracting interest from Edu and Arteta. The 21-year-old is a highly-regarded talent in Spain, and impressed over his 36 La Liga appearances last term, bagging four goals and an assist as a mainstay of their midfield.

It is now believed that Arsenal are "seriously" keen on signing Guerra, who in turn much prefers a transfer to north London over Villa, despite Emery personally wanting the player to make a Midlands move.

Guerra's contract contains an £84 million release clause, but the Spaniard could actually leave for much less than that figure, according to CS.

Manchester City are in European action this evening as they prepare to take on Italian giants Inter at The Etihad in their first Champions League match of the season.

The Cityzens are playing in the new-look Champions League group phase for the first time and their first clash is a rematch of the 2023 final, which they won.

Rodri scored the only goal of the game as Pep Guardiola’s side secured the treble and their first trophy in the competition in the club’s history.

City come into this match off the back four wins from four games in the Premier League, with the latest being a 2-1 win over Brentford at The Etihad on Saturday.

Yoane Wissa gave the away side an early lead in the opening minute before a brace from superstar centre-forward Erling Haaland sealed all three points for the Cityzens.

Guardiola must now select an XI to take to the field against Inter this evening and the Spanish head coach could make a few changes from the team that faced the Bees, to give his side the best chance of picking up all three points.

Rodri should be unleashed

The first change that should be made to the team is that defensive midfielder Rodri should be brought back in to replace Mateo Kovacic in the middle of the park.

Guardiola selected Kovacic from the start against Brentford but decided to bring the Spain international on for him at half-time and that decision was rewarded with an improved display from the City giant in the second half.

Minutes played

45

45

Passes completed

45

33

Key passes

1

0

Successful long passes

3

1

Duels won

2/3

0/1

Tackles

1

0

As you can see in the table above, Rodri outperformed the Croatia international in the second half with more passes, more chances created, more long passes, more tackles, and more duels won, despite playing the same number of minutes.

The Spanish titan, who scored the winner against tonight’s opponents in the 2023 final, had been missing with a hamstring injury before making his first appearance of the season against Brentford.

Rodri provides defensive stability and sublime quality in possession, providing nine assists and completing 92% of his attempted passes in the Premier League last term, and must now be unleashed from the start against Inter this evening.

Along with the move to start the European Championship winner, Guardiola should also make a change at the heart of his defence to take John Stones out and unleash Ruben Dias from the start.

Why John Stones should be dropped

The England international made his first start of the season for City in the 2-1 win over Brentford on Saturday and endured a difficult afternoon at The Etihad.

It was a nightmare start for the Cityzens veteran as he failed to clear the ball when it came his way in the six-yard box, albeit with Ederson not covering himself in glory either, and that allowed Wissa to score from close range.

That went down as an error that led to a goal on Sofascore and you have to go all the way back to the 2020/21 Premier League season to find his last error that led to a goal in the division, which speaks to his quality and consistently over the last four years or so.

The 30-year-old defender played 84 minutes against Brentford and did not win a single duel, losing his only battle, and did not make a single block, tackle, or interception, to prevent Ederson from being worked.

Thomas Frank’s side ended the match with six shots on target, one of which was Wissa’s goal, and one ‘big chance’ created, which shows that City allowed the away side to test their goalkeeper far too often.

Therefore, Guardiola must ruthlessly ditch Stones from the starting XI after his dismal showing against the Bees, with a sterner test against Inter, who won the Serie A by 19 points last season, to come this evening.

This would then open up a spot alongside Manuel Akanji for Dias to be restored into the starting line-up to provide more defensive stability at the back.

Why Ruben Dias should be unleashed

The £180k-per-week star should be unleashed because he is a solid centre-back who puts his body on the line for the team, whilst also being progressive in possession.

Over the last 365 days, Dias ranks within the top 6% of his positional peers in the Men’s Big 5 Leagues and European competitions for progressive passes per 90 (5.94) and the top 8% for progressive carries per 90 (1.32).

This shows that the Portuguese titan constantly looks to bring the ball forward to find teammates in advanced positions, whether that is through passes or carries, to build attacks for City.

The 27-year-old titan, who was once hailed as a “man-mountain” by ex-City ace Michael Ball, is also a dominant defender who has consistently impressed in the Champions League over the years, reaching two finals in four seasons at the club.

23/24

9

7.18

60%

22/23

12

7.41

64%

21/22

8

6.87

56%

20/21

11

7.17

59%

As you can see in the table above, Dias has consistently dominated opposition players in the Champions League throughout his career at City, particularly in the last two campaigns.

The clips above, from his performance against PSG in the semi-finals of the 2020/21 season, highlight his defensive attributes, as he excels at blocking shots and being in the right place at the right time to make key clearances.

Dias steps up in the big games, winning ten of his 16 duels against Inter in the final in 2023, and that is why he is the perfect choice to step in and start in the opening match of the Champions League campaign against the Italian giants tonight.

Man City struck gold with amazing star who's worth £35m more than Stones

The Cityzens hit the jackpot when they swooped to sign the central defender.

1 ByDan Emery Sep 15, 2024

Guardiola must now brutally ditch Stones, after his error at the weekend, and unleash the former Benfica giant from the start alongside Rodri.

Former Leeds United striker Jermaine Beckford has been left buzzing after an “exciting” update was shared by the 49ers Enterprises.

Leeds summer signings and upcoming fixtures

The Whites and manager Daniel Farke were busy over the summer, bringing in eight new additions after losing a number of important players, including star trio Crysencio Summerville, Archie Gray and Georginio Rutter. Joe Rodon, Largie Ramazani, Jayden Bogle, Ao Tanaka, Isaac Schmidt and Alex Cairns all arrived on permanent transfers, whereas Manor Solomon and Joe Rothwell joined on loan.

On the pitch, Leeds are currently two points better off than they were at this stage last season, with Saturday’s 2-0 win at Cardiff City seeing Ramazani score and shine on what was his first start for the Whites.

Farke’s side currently sit in the playoff positions, but after last season’s Wembley heartbreak against Southampton, will be keen to earn automatic promotion this time around.

Leeds United vs Coventry City

September 28

Norwich City vs Leeds United

October 1

Sunderland vs Leeds United

October 4

Leeds United vs Sheffield United

October 18

Leeds United vs Watford

October 22

The games come thick and fast for Leeds over the coming months, but away from the pitch, plans are seemingly in place from the 49ers Enterprises when it comes to expanding Elland Road.

Leeds announce Elland Road plan to increase capacity

On Monday, Leeds revealed their next steps to enhance Elland Road, looking to take the capacity from 37,645 to around 53,000. The club stated the key ambitions for the stadium upgrade on their official website:

Modernise and improve stadium capacity from 37,645 to c.53,000 seats Significant increase to general admission seating, which at present would make Elland Road the seventh largest club stadium in the country A core architectural design objective is to maintain and enhance the unique atmosphere Phased approach to construction to minimise loss of seating capacity during the project Bring Elland Road in line with UEFA Category 4 status, to be amongst the elite in European stadia Expert team, combining global stadium experience with local specialist knowledge, assembled to deliver artist’s impressions and planning submission

Chairman Paraag Marathe said: “We recognise how important Elland Road is to the Leeds United fans and the wider community. The opportunity to refresh a century-old stadium, coupled with the legacy of Leeds United, is unprecedented.

“Our plans reinforce our commitment to the long-term success of the club and I am excited that we are going to be able to welcome thousands more supporters to every game, in a stadium that retains the unique atmosphere of Elland Road. We look forward to sharing our plans with supporters and the local community for their input.”

Reacting to the news, former forward Beckford was upbeat and took to X to say: “This will be exciting! Imagine the atmosphere when 50k+ are singing at full pelt! I can’t wait!! MOT”

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta appears set to axe a “unique” player from his squad in January, and there is a real possibility that he could head out on loan.

Arsenal's rumoured transfer plans for 2025

While the Premier League title hopefuls attempt to finally beat Man City to domestic glory, after just missing out on number one spot in each of the last two seasons, sporting director Edu Gaspar and his transfer team continue their work on upgrading Arteta’s options.

£40m star who "dreams" of joining Arsenal now "hesitating" on new contract

He’s apparently reluctant to extend.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Oct 8, 2024

Rumours have circulated recently linking Arsenal with a new striker in 2025, despite Edu and Arteta ultimately deciding not to sign towards the end of the summer.

After missing out on RB Leipzig starlet Benjamin Sesko earlier in the window, with an Arsenal offer rejected by the player, it is believed the Gunners could still go back in for Slovenia’s rising star.

Arsenal have already made contact over Sesko, as they plan a potential swoop for him next year, according to some reports, but he is by no means the only striker on their agenda. As well as Sesko, reports claim Inter Milan striker Marcus Thuram, Sporting Lisbon star Viktor Gyokeres and Eintracht Frankfurt star Omar Marmoush are other strikers linked with moves to Arsenal.

Bournemouth (away)

October 19

Liverpool (home)

October 27

Newcastle United (away)

November 2

Chelsea (away)

November 10

Nottingham Forest (home)

November 23

Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran was a reported target for north London chiefs too, but the Colombian’s new deal could make a transfer that much more difficult to do, especially in January.

As well as potential new additions, the winter window represents an opportunity to offload players and make space. One player who seems destined for the chopping block is left-back Kieran Tierney.

Loan on the cards with Tierney "no longer" in Arsenal's plans

As per reliable journalist Charles Watts, writing via his Dailybriefing, Arsenal could allow Tierney to go out on loan in January once he recovers from a hamstring injury, which has kept him sidelined since Euro 2024.

“Had that injury not happened, I’m sure Tierney would have been playing for another club right now,” said Watts.

“That was certainly the plan anyway, following his loan spell with Real Sociedad last season. But the injury put an end to any chances of a move and the focus now is on the left-back getting himself back fully fit ahead of the January window.

“He’s not in Mikel Arteta’s plans anymore. That’s been clear for a long time and Tierney accepts that. There is no animosity there. He knows the club has moved on and that his qualities as a left-back are not what Arsenal need in the system that they play.

“He has been included in Arsenal’s Premier League squad for the season so he could play once fit, but I struggle to really see that happening. He will hope to get a move in January, probably on loan.”

Called a “unique” player by Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers, the writing appears on the wall for Tierney, especially with Oleksandr Zinchenko, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber all capable of playing in his position.

England have their new manager. It has been confirmed by the Football Association that former Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel has agreed a deal to succeed Gareth Southgate as Three Lions boss.

Southgate stepped down from the role after the final of this summer’s European Championship, which England lost 2-1 to Spain.

Tuchel was formally unveiled as England manager on 16th October at Wembley Stadium. In taking the England job, Tuchel becomes only the third non-British permanent manager of the England men’s team after Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello.

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“We are thrilled to have hired Thomas Tuchel, one of the best coaches in the world,” said FA CEO Mark Bullingham.

“Since Gareth resigned, we have worked through the candidate pool, meeting a number of coaches and evaluating them against that criteria. Thomas was very impressive and stood out with his vast expertise and his drive,” he added.

Speaking about the appointment of the German, former England striker Alan Shearer called it a “bold move”.

Bold it most certainly is, but appointing Tuchel as England’s new manager also makes perfect sense. Here’s why…

1 He's a serial winner

For all their progress under Gareth Southgate, one thing England were never able to do under his tutelage was win a trophy. Luckily, Tuchel has plenty of experience in that area.

The 51-year-old has won trophies with all four of his previous clubs. While in charge of Borussia Dortmund, he guided the team to their first German Cup in five years, while at Paris Saint-Germain, he won back-to-back Ligue 1 titles, including a domestic treble in his second season.

Most famously, he later guided Chelsea to a Champions League triumph, before winning the Bundesliga with Bayern.

If England want to win another major trophy, they’ll need a winner in charge. Tuchel is certainly that.

2 Tuchel is a cup specialist

Knockout football is, of course, very different to domestic football.

Each game comes with more pressure, more stress, and generally, a bit more excitement – with players knowing that a single mistake can end their team’s run early, but a single moment of genius can make them a hero.

Tuchel is a master of knockout football and has overperformed with squads that weren’t necessarily among the favourites to succeed.

As mentioned, he won the German Cup with Dortmund and the Champions League with Chelsea – conceding just two goals in the knockout stages, having taken over from Frank Lampard mid-season.

He also took PSG to their first Champions League final, narrowly losing to future employers Bayern in the final.

And while his record at Wembley is not exactly incredible, Tuchel also reached three cup finals in England, while also bringing the Super Cup and Club World Cup to Stamford Bridge.

Season

Competition

Stage reached

2020/21

FA Cup

Final

2020/21

Champions League

Winners

2021/22

Super Cup

Winners

2021/22

Club World Cup

Winners

2021/22

League Cup

Final

2021/22

Champions League

Quarter-final

2021/22

FA Cup

Final

3 He's embraced England's football culture

The FA have generally appointed English managers in the past because they are, well, English. They speak the language and have experience of dealing with English players and clubs.

Yes, Tuchel is German, but he ticks both of those boxes nevertheless.

His English is near-perfect – if not perfect, full stop. This means he, unlike previous foreign England managers (looking at you, Fabio Capello), will be able to communicate with the players seamlessly.

Meanwhile, his time at Chelsea will have stood him in good stead when it comes to the FA giving him the job.

“He’s an avowed Anglophile,” German football reporter Raphael Honigstein told talkSPORT of Tuchel. “He loves English football, loves English players.”

Honigstein added: “For him, I think it’s a bit of a dream move. As I said, he has a real passion for English football.”

4 He can get the best out of Harry Kane

One of the English players Tuchel has experience of managing is Three Lions captain Harry Kane, who he brought to Bayern and was his leading man for the 2023/24 season – at least, before Tuchel left the club in April.

Under Tuchel, Kane scored 44 goals and provided 12 assists in just 45 games, scoring a goal every 89 minutes. That’s the best ratio the English striker has ever produced under any manager of his career.

Despite being England’s all-time record goalscorer, Kane has generally struggled to replicate the killer instincts he has shown for his clubs on the international stage – especially at big tournaments, with the ex-Spurs ace coming under fire during Euro 2024.

Tuchel got the best out of Kane at Bayern, so he can hopefully help him do the same for his country. Speaking about working with Kane in January 2024, Tuchel told bundesliga.com: “It’s just a gift, I feel very privileged to be his coach.”

5 Tuchel was the best available option

There has been a plethora of names linked with the England job since Southgate stepped down after Euro 2024.

Among those that were linked with the vacancy were Lee Carsley, who has stepped in as interim boss and will remain in charge for England’s next two games, along with Newcastle manager Eddie Howe and former Chelsea boss Graham Potter. Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp were also linked with the role.

Looking at that list of candidates alongside Tuchel, the German was, and is, the clear choice for the job, not only because of his credentials, but also his availability.

None of Carsley, Howe, or Potter have the same experience at the highest level as Tuchel, nor have they won the kind of trophies Tuchel has.

Guardiola and Klopp matched Tuchel in those departments, but with Guardiola still tied to Manchester City for another year and Jurgen Klopp having recently agreed to take a new job with Red Bull, Tuchel was arguably the only remaining, qualified candidate.

Former England defender Micah Richards agrees. “The point is we don’t have an English candidate strong enough to take that job, that’s one of the most interesting things,” he said on The Rest is Football podcast.

“I was of the opinion that we don’t need an English manager, just go out and get the best person for the job,” he added. “I think Tuchel is an outstanding manager, a proven winner.”