All posts by h716a5.icu

You'll Never Walk Alone? Liverpool supporters started streaming out of Anfield long before referee Andy Madley brought an end to Saturday's shambolic showing against Nottingham Forest. They knew that there was no way back for their team after Morgan Gibbs-White fired in the visitors' third and final goal with 12 minutes remaining. Truth be told, it felt like the game was up for the hosts as soon as Murillo opened the scoring after just over half an hour of play, because this is a side suddenly bereft of backbone.

The Reds repeatedly came from behind to win or draw games during last season's Premier League title triumph, picking up 23 points from losing positions in total, but they've not managed to do so once this term. The net result is six defeats from 12 games, and Saturday's loss was the most embarrassing yet.

Despite starting the day in the relegation places, Forest cruised to victory at the home of the beleaguered champions, allowing their fans to spend the closing stages joyously alternating between demanding a fourth goal and mocking Arne Slot with chants of 'You're getting sacked in the morning!'

He wasn't fired, of course. Slot is still Liverpool's manager going into Wednesday's Champions League clash with PSV – but for how much longer? Slot himself admitted losing 3-0 at home to Forest was "a very, very, very bad result", so just how bad would things have to get before the club's owners decided to act?…

Getty ImagesIsak issues a major problem

Tom Werner was in attendance on Saturday, meaning the Liverpool chairman will now be acutely aware of the severity of the situation – if he wasn't already before. 

The American would have arrived hoping to see the Reds kickstart their campaign with the help of their £125 million ($165m) man, Alexander Isak, who was surprisingly selected to lead the line ahead of Hugo Ekitike. What he witnessed was a complete and collective "mess", as captain Virgil van Dijk admitted afterwards.

Isak was painfully poor, so utterly ineffective that some fans were left pining for Darwin Nunez, a wasteful finisher but a chaotic character always capable of making something happen. Isak, by complete contrast, offered absolutely nothing, touching the ball just 14 times before being mercifully withdrawn after 68 minutes of mediocrity.

There can, of course, be zero sympathy for the Sweden striker, who is paying a heavy price for arriving at Anfield in such poor physical condition. However, that only made Slot's decision to start him all the more inexplicable.

AdvertisementAFPRunning out of time and patience

Isak was meant to have played at least twice for Sweden during the international break but, after making an appearance off the bench against Switzerland, he wasn't used at all against Slovenia because new coach Graham Potter didn't want to run the risk of him picking up a booking that would have ruled him out of next March's World Cup play-off semi-final against Ukraine.

So, why on earth was a ridiculously rusty Isak picked ahead of a fully-fit Ekitike, who had scored his first goal for France last Thursday week? Slot pretty much answered the question before the game by admitting that Liverpool are so desperate to get their club-record signing back up to speed that they're willing to give him game time ahead of more deserving team-mates.

"This morning I had a conversation with the performance staff about what is the best way for Alex – not for Liverpool – to get him as fast as we can to 100 per cent," Slot said in his pre-match press conference on Friday. "I always have to find the balance between what is the best for him as an individual and for us as a team.

"I do know that a 100% fit Alexander Isak is a big, big, big plus for this team. But for him to get there he might need to have minutes where you could argue that another player might be further ahead of him in terms of match fitness. Alex will end up being the player he was at Newcastle if we get him fit. That will take a little bit of time."

It was a remarkable revelation, given both time and patience are running out on Merseyside.

Getty Images SportGomez's puzzling lack of game time

One can understand Liverpool's pressing need for the time, money and patience they've invested in Isak to start reaping dividends – but starting him only makes sense if he's capable of contributing. Liverpool are carrying enough passengers as it is at the moment, so they hardly need to burden themselves with one more.

The message it sends out is also awful. One can only imagine Ekitike's frustration when he learned that an immobile Isak would be starting ahead of him. Of course, Joe Gomez was probably feeling just as aggrieved on Saturday afternoon.

With injury-plagued duo Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong both unavailable, the presumption was that the versatile Gomez would be asked to fill in at right-back – not least because that would allow Dominik Szoboszlai, Liverpool's best player this season by some distance, to play in his preferred position in midfield. 

However, the Hungarian was once again asked to play in defence, while Gomez spent the entire afternoon on the bench. Consequently, the sum total of Gomez's Premier League game time this season remains 43 minutes spread across four matches – which is just staggering in light of Ibrahima Konate's consistently calamitous displays.

Slot alluded to Gomez's longstanding fitness issues on Friday. "I think he's only played 90 minutes twice throughout the whole of this year," the former Feyenoord coach said. "If we want to keep him available longer, it is maybe a risk to play him seven times in 22 days."

It definitely would be, but the point is that Gomez is barely playing at all – and we need to know why. Either the England international can no longer cope with the rigours of Premier League football or Slot simply doesn't feel he's even good enough to play ahead of the increasingly error-prone Konate, who gifted Forest the corner from which they opened the scoring on Saturday with a horrible touch under no meaningful pressure whatsoever.

Of course, the fact that giving away a corner is akin to giving away a goal these days is another major problem for Slot. 

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

Getty Images SportLosing too many battles

Murillo's 33rd-minute opener at Anfield may have been shrouded in controversy due to the fact that it didn't appear very different to the goal that Virgil van Dijk had disallowed at Manchester City two weeks beforehand – but it exposed Liverpool's shocking inability to deal with crosses into their area. Indeed, they've now conceded nine times from set-piece situations this season – equalling their tally for the entire 2024-25 campaign – and what's really worrying is that nobody seems to know what's going on.

Statistically speaking, Van Dijk remains the dominant aerial force in the Premier League, while Konate also ranks among the top 10 for average headers won per game (3.5, alongside Dan Burn and Gabriel Magalhaes). However, on far too many occasions this season, Liverpool players have reacted too slowly to flick-ons or second balls, and the air of apprehension among the supporters every single time a corner, free-kick or throw-in is conceded is an inevitable reflection of lack of confidence they're seeing on the pitch.

"I don't think there is nervousness before a set-piece [among the players]," a visibly angry Van Dijk said on Saturday. "We cleared the ones before [Murillo's goal]. I think overall we were just not good in terms of the battles, the challenges, the second-ball fight. Too rushed. It's just a very, very difficult situation at the moment and we have to get out of this."

“It will help in Shubman’s growth as a captain. It’s good if young and experienced play together”

Tristan Lavalette17-Oct-20252:16

What to expect from Rohit, Kohli in this phase of their careers?

The symbolism was striking. During India’s main training session ahead of the first ODI against Australia, Virat Kohli was having a typically intense hit with Rohit Sharma to his left in the next net at Optus Stadium.Shortly after, India’s last two Test and ODI skippers were joined in the nets by their successor Shubman Gill, who started preparation ahead of his ODI captaincy debut as a new era begins.Having set such a commanding tone launching his Test captaincy against England, where he finished as the highest run-scorer with 754 runs at an average of 75.40, Gill has suddenly become the face of Indian cricket.Although his predecessors, especially Kohli, still hog most of the attention publicly as gleaned by a strong Perth media presence and smattering of fans around Optus Stadium following their every move.Related

The wait for 'Ro-Ko' is over and it's okay to be a bit emotional about it

Green ruled out of ODI series against India with side soreness, Labuschagne called up

Kohli finds rhythm, Rohit shakes off the rust in India's first training session

It could be viewed as an awkward balancing act amid a transition for this India team after Kohli and Rohit dominated the leadership over the past decade, a particularly fruitful period across formats.But their presence will undoubtedly deflect some spotlight off Gill, who can ease into the role with the support of his sage team-mates as India make their first steps towards the 2027 World Cup.”This is a great experience for Shubman too. Rohit are here and Shubman is doing the captaincy. It will help in Shubman’s growth as a captain. It’s good if young and experienced play together.”While typically steely in the nets, Kohli has been notably jovial during the first couple of days of the Australian white-ball tour.After his 40-minute net session on Friday, Kohli clearly enjoyed himself bantering with several team-mates leading to much laughter all around. India’s training sessions have had a relaxed vibe around them, perhaps a sign of things to come in this new era.But much focus of this three-match ODI series will be on the performances of Rohit and Kohli, almost certainly their farewell on Australian soil, at the top of the order.Shubman Gill won his first Test series at home as captain•BCCI”If you look at their form, the way the two of them have prepared – they trained at the BCCI Centre of Excellence and also played practice games – I think they are ready performance-wise,” Axar said.”They look in good touch in the training sessions. And if you talk about their physical fitness, of course everyone has passed their fitness tests, I think they are ready to go.”The series is a chance for Gill, 26, to start moulding a XI in a bid to put his stamp on the ODI team. Axar, 31, looms as an intriguing player, whose versatility makes him so appealing in the shorter formats.Having been picked ahead of Ravindra Jadeja for this tour, there will be pressure on Axar who is set to bat at No.5 and will be India’s leading allrounder with Hardik Pandya on the sidelines due to injury.”I am very confident about this series,” Axar, who last played in Australia during the 2022 T20 World Cup, said. “In the Asia Cup, I did well with bat and ball. I am ready for the challenge.”If you look at my growth – I came here in 2015 for the first time during the World Cup – I have been with the Indian team regularly in recent years.”I know what I have to do. The team relies on me now – ‘it’s Axar, he can get us the results’. If you perform continuously, you get the confidence too.”I am more confident now and I know and I can do my bit to win games for my team.”

Life before VAR was different. When goals would fly in undissected and celebrations could go on uninterrupted. That was a life without the need for weekly referee shows and the dreaded wait for the finest offside calls, but it is ultimately the reality of modern-day Premier League football.

Alas, what if it wasn’t? What if VAR didn’t exist? And the Premier League was forced to rely on the timing of the linesman’s flag and the whistle of the referee and referee only?

Stat site quawka have played out that scenario and put together the Premier League table without VAR errors this season.

Premier League Set-Piece Goals Rankings 2025/2026

Who are the best from corners, free-kicks and throw-ins?

ByCharlie Smith Nov 12, 2025

The ‘errors’ are voted by Squawka followers in polls based on the most controversial VAR calls every week and the latest standings have now been revealed.

Note: The standings have been compiled on the basis that penalties which should have been awarded would have been converted.

20 Wolverhampton Wanderers: +/- 0 places

Unfortunately for Wolverhampton Wanderers fans, not even a life without VAR errors would be enough to stop their current rot. The Midlands side are yet to have an error go against them, but have actually had one go in their favour.

With or without VAR, Rob Edwards’ side sit rock bottom on two points and without a single win in the first 12 games of the Premier League season. Whether it comes courtesy of refereeing decisions or on their own merit, Wolves desperately need three points from somewhere.

19 Leeds United: -1 place

With one error going their way, Leeds United should be among the few sides grateful for VAR in the Premier League this season. The Whites would be two points worse off without it and one position lower than where they currently find themselves.

Defeat at the hands of Aston Villa left Daniel Farke’s men in the dropzone last time out and those at Elland Road now have the task of keeping their composure in a desperate attempt to survive at the first time of asking.

18 Burnley: +1 place

Although they’ve had one error go against them and none in their favour, Burnley’s point total wouldn’t change without VAR. The Clarets would remain on 10 points, but in 18th rather than 19th. That shows just how tight the relegation scrap is down at the bottom and the difficulty of the task on Scott Parker’s hands.

The Burnley boss will at least be hoping to have more VAR calls go in his side’s favour in the coming months.

17 West Ham United: +/- 0 places

Like Burnley, West Ham United’s point total wouldn’t change if VAR wasn’t around. The Hammers would still sit just outside the dropzone on 11 points, despite having one VAR error in their favour.

Nuno Espirito Santo has so far done an impressive job to steer those at the London Stadium in the right direction, but will be well aware that there’s still plenty to do, with or without the help of VAR.

16 Nottingham Forest: +/- 0 places

At their third attempt this season, it seems as though Nottingham Forest have got their managerial appointment right. Sean Dyche mirrored Nuno’s achievement from last season by winning at Anfield, but did so in far better style – thrashing the Reds 3-0 in shocking fashion.

It was in that game that the Tricky Trees had a VAR error go against them, when Igor Jesus’ goal was controversially disallowed for handball just before the break. It wasn’t enough to stop Forest, however, whose points and position have not been affected by the technology.

15 Brentford: -1 place

Having had two VAR errors go in their favour and two go against them, it’s been a busy season for the technology at Brentford. As it turns out, the Bees would rather have the video assistant available, given that they’d have lost a point without it and drop down to 15th.

It has been a solid start for Keith Andrews, who is proving doubters wrong every week, but he will be well aware that every point matters in the Premier League.

14 Fulham: +1 place

If anyone has reason to complain about VAR this season, it is Fulham. The West London side would move up one place in the Premier League and would have collected an extra two points without the technology this season.

Marco Silva’s men have had one error go their way and three go against them – the worst difference in the Premier League. As they look to push on from early relegation concerns, the Cottagers will be desperate for that to change.

13 Newcastle United: +1 place

Just like Fulham, Newcastle United would be two points better off without VAR and would be sat in 13th, rather than 14th. Of course, it still wouldn’t be enough to hide how poor Eddie Howe’s side have been at times in the current campaign, but life without the technology would have at least taken them closer to European places.

Howe is unlikely to look for excuses, however, and will be aware that the Magpies simply must kick on before they are down and out in the race for Champions League qualification. They’ve had two errors go their way and three against them.

12 Liverpool: +/- 0 places

Liverpool can’t even fall back on VAR controversy to hide just how disastrous their title defence is going. The Reds would still sit on just 18 points after 12 games without the technology.

That said, no team in the Premier League has had more VAR errors go against them than the four that Liverpool have. Whilst Arne Slot’s side simply haven’t been good enough, they could certainly do with a tad more luck when it comes to the officiating.

11 Bournemouth: -3 places

Without VAR, Bournemouth would be one point worse off and sit 11th rather than eighth — highlighting just how tight much of the Premier League table is after 12 games. The Cherries have largely impressed in the current campaign, but have had the fortune of enjoying two VAR errors in their favour and none against them.

Just one point adrift of the Champions League places, Andoni Iraola could yet Bournemouth to greater heights than ever before in the Premier League.

Division ReportsAL EastAL CentralAL WestNL EastNL CentralNL WestAward Picks

AL MVP: Bobby Witt Jr., Royals SS
Last year Witt was worth 9.4 WAR and won the AL batting title—in his age 24 season. He also won a Gold Glove. In other words: He’s valuable.

AL Cy Young: Logan Gilbert, Mariners SP
Breakout alert: Seattle’s workhorse led the AL in innings and WHIP while striking out nearly six times as many hitters as he walked.

AL Rookie of the Year: Kristian Campbell, Red Sox 2B
He played at three levels in the minors last sason and his worst OPS was .898. Meanwhile, Boston’s second basemen were worth -2.3 WAR in 2024.

AL Manager of the Year: Alex Cora, Red Sox
Cora has the Sox poised to break their three-year playoff drought (their last four-year dry spell was in the early 1990s).

NL MVP: Shohei Ohtani, Dodgers SP/DH
Now that he’s back on the bump, Ohtani is a strong bet to become the first player (non-Bonds division) to threepeat as MVP.

NL Cy Young: Paul Skenes, Pirates SP
For those concerned about his durability: As a rookie last year, his best month was September (0.75 ERA, 12.8 strikeouts/9 IP).

NL Rookie of the Year: Roki Sasaki, Dodgers SP
The Dodgers own this award. They’ve had 18 winners; no other team has more than 10. Sasaki, who can touch 102 mph, should make it 19.

NL Manager of the Year: Carlos Mendoza, Mets
Expectations are high in Queens after a 67–40 finish last year—and a new addition you might have read about.

“He wishes to utilise this period to build endurance, body resilience and work on his fitness,” BCCI secretary says

ESPNcricinfo staff24-Sep-20255:11

Aaron: If Iyer says he has back issue, you have to believe him

Shreyas Iyer has requested the BCCI for a six-month break from red-ball cricket due to concerns about his back, which the board has approved*. ESPNcricinfo learned that Iyer sent an email to the board to that effect and pulled out of the ongoing four-day match between India A and Australia A in Lucknow.Confirming the update on Thursday morning, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said in a press statement that Iyer “has informed the BCCI of his decision to take a six-month break from red-ball cricket”. “Having undergone back surgery in the UK and managed his recovery well, he has recently experienced recurring back spasms and stiffness while playing the longer format,” Saikia wrote. “He wishes to utilise this period to build endurance, body resilience and work on his fitness. In view of his decision, he was not considered for selection for the Irani Cup.”Iyer was the India A captain in the first four-day game against Australia A, but withdrew from the second. He was likely to have been picked in the Rest of India squad to play defending Ranji Trophy champions Vidarbha in the Irani Cup, but will now miss that game.Before scoring 8 in his only innings against Australia A last week in Lucknow, Iyer had played the Duleep Trophy semi-final for West Zone against Central Zone in September at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence on the outskirts of Bengaluru. He made 25 and 12 in that outing, his first competitive match since the end of IPL 2025.Iyer had problems with his back in December 2022 and the injury flared up during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series at home in March 2023, after which he had surgery in April and missed the IPL that year. He returned for the Asia Cup in September and was a key part of India’s unbeaten run to the 2023 ODI World Cup final in November.He continued to have issues with his back, though, and skipped some first-class matches for Mumbai, as a result of which he was omitted from the BCCI’s central contracts list in February 2024. Iyer was back on the list of contracted players the following year. More recently, in February-March this year, Iyer was India’s highest run-getter (243 in five innings) and the second-highest run-getter overall in the run to the Champions Trophy title, after which he led Punjab Kings to the final of IPL 2025.

The squad is missing a few key names, forcing Hayes to continue broadening the player pool ahead of the final two matches of 2025.

To close out the year, U.S. women’s national team head coach Emma Hayes has named her final training-camp roster for a pair of friendlies against Euro semifinalists Italy. With the 2027 World Cup creeping closer, Hayes continues to broaden the player pool, calling in three uncapped players once again: Bay FC goalkeeper Jordan Silkowitz, Chicago Stars forward Jameese Joseph, and Washington Spirit defender Kate Wiesner.

This squad features seven changes from October and several notable returns. Hayes has summoned a Chelsea trio – Naomi Girma, Alyssa Thompson, and Catarina Macario – with Girma’s long-awaited comeback headlining the group. The defender has played only four U.S. matches all year, but Hayes has long made her admiration clear.

With injuries, NWSL fatigue, and several fringe players pushing for bigger roles, this camp should offer one last meaningful look at the depth chart before the calendar flips to 2026.

GOAL looks at key takeaways from Hayes' roster release.

AFPGirma's return

Girma returns to the USWNT roster after missing the previous FIFA window with an injury. The defender last appeared for the U.S. on July 2 in a 3-0 win over Canada and has played only four of the team’s 13 matches this year, starting all of them at center back.

Her return has been long-awaited – and no one seems more thrilled than Emma Hayes. Girma was instrumental in the U.S. run to Olympic gold in 2024, when Hayes famously called her “the best defender I’ve ever seen.”

In club play, Girma has also dealt with injuries, but she recently worked her way back into Chelsea’s lineup, starting their 6-0 Champions League win over St. Pölten.

Ahead of camp, Hayes told reporters: “I’m just so happy she’s back… I realize more and more the importance, not just of her qualities on the field, but her quiet leadership – not just in terms of leading the line, but off the field as well.”

AdvertisementGetty ImagesGoalkeeper questions…answered?

After the October friendlies, Hayes made it clear she was pretty set on her trio of goalkeepers: Phallon Tullis-Joyce, Claudia Dickey, and Mandy McGlynn. There has been a consistent rotation between all three, with Tullis-Joyce and McGlynn earning three starts and Dickey starting twice. 

Hayes called on a new face to this camp, with Tullis-Joyce ruled out due to a facial injury she suffered with her club team, Manchester United. This is just the second international call-up for Jordan Silkowitz, who was named to the roster alongside Dickey and McGlynn. Silkowitz earned her first-ever U.S. National team call-up earlier this summer when she played in Germany with the Under-23s. In total, the three goalkeepers in this camp have just eight total career caps. 

Will Hayes give Silkowitz a shot? Perhaps. She hasn't at all shied away from trying new things during her tenure, and the time is still now to do so. 

Getty ImagesChelsea trio called on

They might not be ‘Triple Espresso’, but Catarina Macario, Girma, and Alyssa Thompson will all represent the USWNT after featuring for Chelsea in the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Macario is coming off a standout performance, scoring twice in the Blues’ win over St. Pölten.

In total, six players on this roster are currently based in Europe – four in England and two in France. Lindsey Heaps and Lily Yohannes feature for Lyon, while Emily Fox plays for Arsenal.

Macario and Thompson have been consistently dangerous for the USWNT in attack. Thompson already has 22 caps and three goals, and arrived at Chelsea with 15 goals in 63 appearances for Angel City. Macario, meanwhile, has one U.S. goal this year and 13 in 27 career caps, underscoring her long-term impact when healthy.

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

Getty ImagesShaw's big moment

All eyes will be on forward Jaedyn Shaw this camp, especially as it will be her second-straight call-up to the senior team after she spent two previous FIFA windows with the Under-23s. With the senior team, Shaw has 29 USWNT caps and eight career goals. She also attained a massive milestone when she became the first USWNT player to score in her first five starts. 

Shaw has been instrumental in Gotham FC's end of the season, too, scoring a clinical overtime free-kick goal to send the NY/NJ team to the 2025 NWSL Championship. 

Under Hayes, Shaw has been less than consistent, but with her seemingly finding her groove in the playoffs, her confidence is at another level.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has now reportedly been handed a huge boost after some contract news out of the Emirates Stadium.

Ever since Andrea Berta’s arrival in north London, the sporting director has rushed to secure the long-term futures of Arteta’s most important players.

Several extensions have already been announced, and crucial talks remain ongoing with star performers like Bukayo Saka and Jurrien Timber.

William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes both committed with long-term extensions running until 2030 earlier this year, with the pair also said to have promised eachother they’ll remain at the Emirates to compete for major silverware.

These deals were considered vital after Real Madrid showed serious interest in Saliba especially, and tying down both of world football’s centre-backs represents a major coup for Arsenal as Berta signals their serious ambition.

Rising academy stars Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly also penned new five-year contracts in the summer, rewarding their breakthrough into the first team and showcasing Arsenal’s continued commitment to youth development.

Both teenagers have impressed when given opportunities and are viewed by Arsenal as integral parts of the club’s future plans, even if some reports suggest that Lewis-Skelly could leave North London in January after falling behind Riccardo Calafiori and Piero Hincapie in the pecking order.

Goalkeeper David Raya and winger Leandro Trossard received significant pay rises before the 2025-26 season too, even if neither player actually extended the length of their deals — which comes as quite interesting.

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 Atletico Madrid

Arsenal 1-0 Crystal Palace

Arsenal 2-0 Brighton

Burnley 0-2 Arsenal

Slavia Prague 0-3 Arsenal

Sunderland 2-2 Arsenal

Trossard’s situation was particularly unusual, with the Belgian agreeing to a salary adjustment that increased his wages without adding any further years to his contract, which still expires in 2027.

That being said, the most crucial new deal talks centre around Saka.

Arsenal are said to have made excellent progress in talks with the England international, with both parties aligned and convinced about continuing together. The 24-year-old, whose current terms runs until 2027, is expected to become Arsenal’s highest-paid player in history with wages exceeding £300,000 per week.

Now, according to TEAMtalk, an agreement has been reached in negotiations.

Arsenal agree new Bukayo Saka deal after "breakthrough"

Indeed, the outlet reports that Arsenal have achieved a ‘breakthrough’ in contract talks with Saka, and an official announcement is expected to be made in ‘due course’ over his new deal.

After months of discussions between the two parties, Saka is now apparently poised to sign on the dotted line, coming one month after the Hale End superstar publicly declared his wish to remain at N5.

Saka has evolved into one of the world’s elite wingers and his importance to the Gunners cannot be overstated.

The attacker already has over 277 first-team appearances under his belt at Arsenal, scoring 76 goals across all competitions, and he reached a significant milestone by making his 200th Premier League appearance for the club against West Ham in October.

His output has been extraordinary ever since making his senior debut against Vorskla Poltava all the way back in 2018. The Three Lions superstar has netted 56 goals and provided 51 assists in the top flight alone, giving him an incredible 107 goal involvements in the competition, and he’s barely midway through his 20s.

Only Cristiano Ronaldo, Raheem Sterling and Ryan Giggs had more combined Premier League goals and assists than Saka at the age of 23, making for more insane numbers that put him on course to challenge some of the all-time Premier League records.

Arteta will be thrilled that Saka’s hamstring woes are now behind him, and we could still be yet to see the very best of what Arsenal’s electrifying gem has to offer.

Following their heroics against Real Madrid, there is now a real chance Arsenal’s season could end in Champions League glory.

However, while that would be all fans will remember this campaign for years down the line, it would still be fair to describe their domestic season as a disaster.

While a significant reason for that has been the near-constant stream of injuries Mikel Arteta and Co have had to deal with, it’s also been down to several star players not performing at their best, with club captain Martin Odegaard perhaps the worst offender in this regard.

Since returning from his ankle injury in November, the Norwegian hasn’t been able to hit the heights of the last two years, and that may cost him next season, as recent reports have linked Arsenal to someone who could be a significant upgrade this summer.

Arsenal transfer news

On top of a new midfielder, Arsenal have also been linked with a plethora of wide talent in recent weeks, with perhaps the most consistent being Nico Williams.

The Athletic Bilbao star was touted for a move to the North Londoners last summer as well, but it seems like he could really be available for around £50m this year, and given his tally of 11 goals and seven assists in 42 games this season, that may be a fee well worth paying.

Likewise, the Gunners have long been linked with Raphinha, even before his move to Barcelona, and those rumours have once again reemerged this year, with reports suggesting he could be available for around £80m.

Transfer Focus

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

While that’s an awful lot of money, it doesn’t seem too unreasonable considering he’s amassed a sensational tally of 30 goals and 23 assists in just 48 appearances this term, although if the North Londoners are going to sign Florian Wirtz, they might not be able to afford the Brazilian winger.

Yes, according to a recent report from Caught Offside, Arsenal are one of several top sides keen to sign the Bayer Leverkusen gem this summer.

Alongside the Gunners, the report claims that Liverpool, Manchester City, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are all interested in the German international, who could cost up to €130m, which is about £111m.

It would be an incredibly costly and complicated transfer to get over the line, but given Wirtz’s immense quality and potential, one well worth fighting for, even if his arrival would be bad news for Odegaard.

How Wirtz compares to Odegaard

So, if Arsenal were to get ahead of the chasing pack and splash the cash on Wirtz this summer, they’d likely do so with the intention of having him start most games as an attacking midfielder, which would put him in direct competition with Odegaard.

With that said, who comes out on top when we compare them both? Well, from a pure output perspective, it’s an overwhelming victory for the Leverkusen star.

For example, in just 41 appearances this season, totalling 3040 minutes, he’s scored 15 goals and provided 13 assists, which comes out to a brilliant average of a goal involvement every 1.46 games or every 108.57 minutes.

In comparison, the former Real Madrid gem has only been able to amass a tally of five goals and nine assists in 38 appearances, totalling 2896 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.71 games of every 206.85 minutes.

What about their underlying numbers, then? Who comes out on top when we take a look under the hood?

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.51

0.37

Non-Penalty G+As

0.77

0.28

Progressive Carries

4.91

3.59

Progressive Passes

6.80

10.4

Shots

2.79

1.80

Shots on Target

1.26

0.60

Shot-Creating Actions

5.76

5.02

Goal-Creating Actions

0.85

0.55

Ball Recoveries

4.41

3.73

Unfortunately for the Gunners’ captain, he once again comes out on the losing side of this comparison, as the Pulheim-born gem, whom former Leverkusen striker Patrick Helmes has described as “the best midfielder in the world,” does better in most relevant metrics.

For example, he does far better in metrics like expected and actual non-penalty goals plus assists, progressive carries, shots and shots on target, shot and goal-creating actions and more, all per 90.

Ultimately, while it would require a club-record bid, Arsenal should be doing all they can to bring Wirtz to the Emirates this summer, even if it sees Odegaard relegated to a squad role.

Kiwior upgrade: Arsenal want to sign "the most in-demand CB in the world"

The tremendously exciting prospect could be incredible for Arsenal.

1 ByJack Salveson Holmes Apr 21, 2025

Manchester United have now moved ahead of their rivals in the race for an “incredible” striker, having submitted an enticing offer, according to a report.

Man Utd stepping up striker pursuit

Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee once again failed to make an impact at the weekend, with Man United succumbing to a 4-1 defeat against Newcastle United, and it is now looking increasingly likely a new striker will be brought in this summer.

The Red Devils are considering a number of options from within the Premier League, with talks recently being opened over a deal for Wolverhampton Wanderers star Matheus Cunha, who has a release clause of £62.5m.

Ruben Amorim’s side are also becoming more confident they would be able to sign Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta this summer, should they make a move, and they have now expressed a concrete interest in signing the 27-year-old.

Man Utd making moves to sign "incredible" assist king for bargain £20m fee

The Red Devils are in pursuit of a playmaker, who is set to leave his club on the cheap this summer.

ByDominic Lund Apr 15, 2025

However, Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap has been identified as Man United’s top striker target for the summer, following his breakout season with the Tractor Boys, and there has now been a positive update on their pursuit of the Englishman.

According to a report from TEAMtalk, United have now surged ahead of rival suitors in the race for Delap, given that the offer they have made is “far more solid” than Chelsea’s, which could play a crucial role in deciding the striker’s future.

Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal and Everton have also been named as potential suitors for the forward, whose agent has fielded a number of calls in recent weeks, but it appears as though the Red Devils are now leading the race for his signature.

Interestingly, the Ipswich star will remain keen on a move to Old Trafford regardless of whether European football is on offer next season.

"Incredible" Delap could be fantastic signing

Ipswich are almost certain to be relegated from the Championship, but it cannot be put down to a lack of effort on their striker’s behalf, having netted 12 Premier League goals.

That total is very impressive, given that the 22-year-old is playing for a side now 14 points from safety, and he has received high praise from reporter Alex Howell, who described him as “incredible” back in March.

Not only has the Winchester-born striker displayed a keen eye for goal, but he has showcased his ability to drive at opposition defences, ranking in the 90th percentile for successful take-ons, and the 86th percentile for progressive carries per 90 over the past year.

It is well-documented that Man United may not have a great deal of money to spend this summer, given their financial issues, which could make Delap the perfect addition at striker, considering he is set to be available for just £30m.

Nottingham Forest are now very keen on signing a £26m midfielder who is becoming increasingly likely to leave his club this summer, according to a report.

Forest's summer transfer plans

Even the most optimistic of Forest fans wouldn’t have predicted their levels of performance this season, with Champions League qualification still very much on the cards, although they were dealt a blow with the 2-1 loss against Aston Villa at the weekend.

It was an afternoon to forget at Villa Park, with the Tricky Trees’ three-game winning streak in the Premier League coming to an end, but they remain in third place, four points clear of nearest rivals Chelsea.

However, should the Tricky Trees manage to qualify for Europe’s elite competition, they may have to improve their squad depth this summer, with Nuno setting his sights on targets in a range of different positions.

Bringing in a new striker is of particular importance, with the likes of Crystal Palace’s Jean Philippe-Mateta and Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres among the targets, while Marseille winger Luis Enrique could be signed to provide competition for Anthony Elanga at left-wing.

£25m release clause: Nottingham Forest join hectic race for "superb" star

They could trigger his release clause.

ByTom Cunningham Apr 7, 2025

Not only that, but Nuno could also look to bolster his options in the middle of the park, with a report from Italy revealing Nottingham Forest are now very keen on signing AC Milan midfielder Yunus Musah (via Sport Witness).

Musah is likely to exit the San Siro this summer, with a €30m (£26m) fee mooted, having put in some disappointing performances this season, recently being substituted in the first half after making a major error against Fiorentina.

The 22-year-old was booed off the field by the Milan fans, which could lead to a move elsewhere this summer, and a number of Premier League clubs are lining up for his signature, with Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United also expressing an interest.

"Incredible" Musah needs to move on this summer

The midfielder’s relationship with the Milan fans is seemingly at breaking point, given their reaction to his substitution at the weekend, and he may need to move on for the good of his career.

While it was undoubtedly a disappointing performance from the American, he is still very young at just 22, and there are plenty of indications he would have a lot to offer Forest in the Premier League.

Journalist Kyle Bonn lauded the Milan ace as “incredible” earlier this season, and he has performed pretty well across some key metrics for midfielders over the past year, when compared to his positional peers, most notably impressing with his dribbling.

Statistic

Average per 90

Assists

0.12 (73rd percentile)

Successful take-ons

1.43 (96th percentile)

Progressive carries

3.25 (98th percentile)

Should Musah decide he needs to move on this summer, he could be a bargain at just £25m, and Forest could be well-positioned to win the race for his signature, should they manage to achieve their goal of qualification for the Champions League.