Match story
- Uruguay fired more attempts (8 vs 7 shots).
- Uruguay was more accurate in front of goal (88% on target vs 43%).
- Brazil held more of the ball (53% possession).
Brazil and Uruguay drew 2-2 in the World Cup - Qualification South America. The fixture is part of the Regular Season - 5 stage in the 2018 season. The match was played at Arena De Pernambuco in Sao Lourenco da Mata. Nestor Pitana, Argentina officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Brazil vs Uruguay meeting in World Cup - Qualification South America with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Brazil and Uruguay. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
World Cup - Qualification South AmericaRecorded meetings: 0 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
Brazil and Uruguay drew 2-2 in the World Cup - Qualification South America. The fixture is part of the Regular Season - 5 stage in the 2018 season. The match was played at Arena De Pernambuco in Sao Lourenco da Mata. Nestor Pitana, Argentina officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Brazil vs Uruguay meeting in World Cup - Qualification South America with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Brazil and Uruguay. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
World Cup - Qualification South America
Arsenal are reportedly inviting offers from Galatasaray for both Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri as Andrea Berta is tasked with making sales. This could also see the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Reiss Nelson, and Fabio Vieira leave the Emirates Stadium before the end of the summer. That’s according to BBC Sport, who also add that […] The post BBC journalist provides update on six potential Arsenal sales in major clear-out appeared first on CaughtOffside.
After lifting the UEFA Super Cup with PSG, Marquinhos is now one step closer of matching Lionel Messi's record as the most-winning soccer player in history. Marquinhos has once again led Paris Saint-Germain to victory in one of Europe’s premier competitions, capturing the 2026 UEFA Super Cup against Aston Villa. By adding another trophy to his cabinet, the Brazilian defender moves one step closer to matching Lionel Messi‘s historic mark as the most decorated player in soccer history. After arriving at PSG from AS Roma in July 2013, Marquinhos joined the club at the dawn of their era of domestic dominance. Now serving as team captain at 32 years old, the Brazilian center back has secured two UEFA Champions League titles and two UEFA Super Cup trophies following Wednesday’s 2-1 victory over Aston Villa. By lifting the European trophy, Marquinhos raised his career total to 44 professional titles. The defender won the 2012 Copa Libertadores with Corinthians, along with the South American U-17 Championship, the 2019 Copa America, and an Olympic gold medal at the 2016 Rio Games with the Brazil national team, while earning the rest of his silverware in the French capital. With his total at PSG climbing to 40, Marquinhos has now won more trophies with a single club than any other player in history. The Super Cup victory allowed him to break the previous record held by legend Hossam Ashour, who won 39 titles with Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly. Marquinhos of Paris Saint-Germain lifts the UEFA Super Cup trophy. (Alex Grimm/Getty Images) Marquinhos’ trophy breakdown Including the South American U-17 Championship with Brazil, Marquinhos’ trophy cabinet breaks down as follows: Ligue 1: 11Trophee des Champions / French Super Cup: 10Coupe de France: 8Coupe de la Ligue: 6UEFA Champions League: 2UEFA Super Cup: 2FIFA Intercontinental Cup: 1Copa Libertadores: 1Copa America: 1Olympic Games: 1South American U-17 Championship: 1 How far is Messi from Marquinhos? Marquinhos has already locked down the number two spot on the all-time list, passing countryman Dani Alves, who retired with 42 career titles. Unlike the former right back, Lionel Messi remains active, but his ultimate record is facing a real threat of being matched or even broken in the near future. At present, Lionel Messi leads all players with 48 official career titles. The Argentine star reached that milestone by capturing 35 trophies with FC Barcelona, three with PSG, three with Inter Miami, and seven with the Argentina national team, including his 2008 Olympic gold medal and the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup title. With Inter Miami eliminated from both the CONCACAF Champions Cup and the Leagues Cup, Messi can contend for a maximum of two trophies in 2026: the Supporters’ Shield and the MLS Cup. Marquinhos, meanwhile, can narrow the gap as early as this weekend, when PSG face RC Lens in the 2026 Trophee des Champions.
Arsenal could be handed a sensational opportunity to sign Victor Osimhen after the striker’s name reportedly emerged during negotiations between the Gunners and Galatasaray. The Turkish champions are currently exploring deals for Arsenal stars Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri, but discussions between the two clubs could potentially lead to an unexpected move for one of […] The post Forget Alvarez! Arsenal may have just been handed sensational opportunity to sign 59-goal striker in potential swap deal – opinion appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Set to return to MLS play, Lionel Messi has been dealt with a major defensive setback as Inter Miami released an injury update addressing Micael's status. Lionel Messi and Inter Miami suffered a 3-2 defeat against Club Leon in the Leagues Cup, and following their elimination from the tournament, the 2026 MLS regular season has shifted back to being their primary focus. However, the back line has taken a major hit after Inter Miami released an official injury update on center back Micael. After starting Wednesday’s match against Club Leon, Micael was forced to exit in the 33rd minute after twisting his ankle and being unable to continue. Though he managed to walk off the pitch under his own power, Fricio Caicedo came on as his replacement at center back in a match that ultimately ended in a 3-2 victory for the Mexican side, leaving Inter Miami eliminated from the Leagues Cup in the round of 16. The day after the elimination, Inter Miami released a statement addressing Micael’s condition. “Micael underwent an MRI today, which confirmed that he has a sprained right ankle sustained during last night’s Leagues Cup match against Club Leon,” part of the official update read. While confirming the injury, the Florida side did not disclose the severity or provide a firm recovery timeline. Instead, Inter Miami noted that Micael will begin a period of rest and treatment, adding that “his progress will dictate his gradual return to team training.“ Micael #16 of Inter Miami CF reacts after suffering an injury against Club Leon. (Rich Storry/Getty Images) Asked about the Brazilian’s injury during his post-match press conference, manager Guillermo Hoyos spoke candidly about what losing him would mean for the squad: “Micael has a significant sprain, and we will see what is determined during the medical examination. But it is a significant sprain, and for us, it would also be a significant loss. He is very important.“ How long will Micael be out? Much like Messi’s importance in the attack, Micael has established himself as the anchor of the defense, featuring in every single match for Inter Miami this season except for a MLS Matchday 4 clash against Charlotte FC back in March when he was rested, totalling 22 games. Now, his target return date will depend entirely on the severity of the sprain. A Grade 3 sprain, which involves a complete ligament tear and carries a two-to-three-month recovery period, seems unlikely given that Micael walked off the field unaided. If he suffered a Grade 1 sprain (micro-tears) or a Grade 2 sprain (partial tearing), his recovery timeline will likely range anywhere from one to six weeks. Who will replace Micael? Micael has cemented his status as a cornerstone of the defense while also providing a dangerous aerial threat, evidenced by his recent goal off a Messi corner kick against Atletico San Luis. Now, Hoyos faces the task of replacing a player who has arguably been Inter Miami’s most consistent defender this season. In terms of stylistic fit, recent signing Fricio Caicedo is the most natural replacement. Compared to options like Ian Fray, Gonzalo Lujan, or a returning Maximiliano Falcon, the Ecuadorian defender offers a 6-foot-4 frame and a left-footed profile that make him the ideal candidate to preserve the team’s build-up play from the left side of defense.
Brian Madjo needed only 17 minutes to change Aston Villa's outlook for the forthcoming season. In that time he bullied Willian Pacho, one of the best markers in the world, and gave Marquinhos a fright.
Savinho is pushing to leave Manchester City as Tottenham step up their pursuit of the Brazilian winger with an £85 million offer on the table. The 22-year-old has reportedly made his desire to move to North London clear to City’s hierarchy, with Spurs attempting to complete a blockbuster deal before the transfer window closes. Spurs […] The post Tottenham target takes drastic step to force exit as Spurs make £85m offer appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Inter Miami were eliminated from the 2026 Leagues Cup after falling 3-2 to Club León, where Lionel Messi returned to action following the passing of his father. Inter Miami’s run in the 2026 Leagues Cup came to an end on Wednesday, falling 3-2 to Club Leon at Nu Stadium. But even in defeat, the story of the night belonged to Lionel Messi, who made an emotional return to the pitch just days after the passing of his father, Jorge Messi. Leon manager Javier Gandolfi didn’t hold back when asked about facing Messi under those circumstances. “For people to understand what Leo Messi is, I think it was proven today. I think words fall short. He’s a competitive animal, a player who, in my opinion, is the best in history. He’s the best in history on the field, and then with things we see from a distance,” he said during postgame press conference. Messi entered off the bench at the start of the second half with Miami leading 1-0, but Leon rallied behind a brace from Daniel Arcila and a goal from Juan Domínguez to complete the comeback, with Dániel Pintér and Yannick Bright scoring for Miami. The result sent Leon through to the knockout stage after winning all three of their group matches, while Miami’s Leagues Cup campaign ended with just one win in three outings. Este abrazo es de León, de todos, del futbol, y es para ti querido Lionel.RESPETO Y CARIÑO 💚@TeamMessi pic.twitter.com/D1Tdb03DOf— Club León (@clubleonfc) August 13, 2026 Even in a moment of personal grief, Messi’s decision to suit up resonated well beyond his own locker room, drawing praise from teammates and opponents alike for a display of commitment that few in the sport could match. Miami’s locker room rallies around Messi Inside Inter Miami‘s own squad, the reaction to Messi’s return was just as emotional. Casemiro called it an example for everyone around him: “He’s an example, because in the end he’s surely going through a very tough time… I had never seen anything like that in my life,” he said, adding that “the commitment he has to us and the commitment he has to the club is something to applaud”. Bright echoed that sentiment from his own perspective, admitting he didn’t expect to see Messi in the squad at all. “It’s incredible. I wasn’t expecting it and it shows how much he cares,” he said, before pledging to give “150%” for his captain going forward — a fitting response from a group that, despite the early exit, made clear where its focus truly was on the night.
I’ve genuinely seen Arsenal fans on social media complaining about Galatasaray offering ‘only’ €45m for Gabriel Martinelli, whilst urging their club not to sign Pedro Neto. I’m not sure what planet these fans live on, but that Martinelli fee can be very easily explained with the number one, representing the number of years left on […] The post Unpopular opinion: Arsenal fans have lost touch with reality if they don’t want this £75m Gabriel Martinelli replacement appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino (Picture: Getty) Mikel Merino says Arsenal ‘probably’ have the ‘best midfield in football’ after Bruno Guimaraes’ £75m move from Newcastle United. The Premier League champions signed Brazil international Guimaraes on a four-year deal after a protracted saga with Newcastle. Guimaraes bolsters an Arsenal midfield that already includes captain Martin Odegaard, England stars Declan Rice and Eberechi Eze, former Real Madrid target Martin Zubimendi, academy graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly and World Cup winner Merino. Arsenal will try to retain their Premier League crown this season while mounting another challenge for the Champions League after losing to PSG in the final back in May. Get the latest transfer news every morning Sign up to our daily football newsletter for personalised updates on who your team is trying to sign and who won't be around next season. Merino, who has returned to Arsenal after helping Spain win the World Cup, believes the Gunners are in good shape to do just that after the ‘amazing’ signing of Guimaraes. Guimaraes made his first appearance for Arsenal in Wednesday’s pre-season draw with Cesc Fabregas’ Como. ‘Amazing signing,’ Merino said when asked about the Newcastle star swapping St James’ Park for the Emirates Stadium. Mikel Arteta and new Arsenal signing Bruno Guimaraes (Picture: Getty) ‘He has proved throughout these years how good he is at Newcastle. And he showed it today again. A lot of composure, technical ability, a lot of defensive effort as well. ‘So it’s a very good signing. A top player, but we have many of those in this team. So everyone that comes to help the team is welcome.’ Asked about the strength of Arsenal’s midfield following Guimaraes’ arrival, Merino added: ‘Honestly, it’s unreal. Probably the best midfield in football. Arsenal are hoping to retain the Premier League (Picture: Getty) ‘The amount of quality that we have there, with every player that can come on the pitch and make a good shift. It’s great. ‘That’s good for the team. That’s good for the squad. It raises everyone’s level because if you have a bad day, the one that is close to you is going to do a great job. ‘I think we have an amazing squad. The hunger is still there. Not because we won it last season, we’re going to be happy with it. https://www.instagram.com/p/Dbyqbq_COQ2/?hl=en&img_index=1 ‘We want more and more and more and we want every trophy possible. That’s the best quality of this team. Not only the amount of depth that we have, the quality that we have in every position, but that hunger.’ Premier League legend and ex-England striker Alan Shearer also believes Arsenal boast arguably the best midfield on the planet following the deal for Guimaraes. ‘Arsenal are signing a top-quality player in Bruno Guimaraes,’ the Newcastle hero told Betfair. ‘There’s no doubt about that. ‘They’re signing a player who’s so comfortable on the ball under pressure, who can make that killer pass. He’s got a great attitude, too, we’ve seen that at Newcastle. ‘So, there’s no doubt he’ll improve them. I think with the likes of Rice, Odegaard and Bruno, there won’t be many better midfields out there.’ Arsenal begin their Premier League title defence with a home match against newly-promoted Coventry City a week on Friday. For more stories like this, check our sport page. Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Comment now Comments Add Metro as a Preferred Source on Google Add as preferred source
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Arsenal are reportedly inviting offers from Galatasaray for both Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri as Andrea Berta is tasked with making sales. This could also see the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Reiss Nelson, and Fabio Vieira leave the Emirates Stadium before the end of the summer. That’s according to BBC Sport, who also add that […] The post BBC journalist provides update on six potential Arsenal sales in major clear-out appeared first on CaughtOffside.
After lifting the UEFA Super Cup with PSG, Marquinhos is now one step closer of matching Lionel Messi's record as the most-winning soccer player in history. Marquinhos has once again led Paris Saint-Germain to victory in one of Europe’s premier competitions, capturing the 2026 UEFA Super Cup against Aston Villa. By adding another trophy to his cabinet, the Brazilian defender moves one step closer to matching Lionel Messi‘s historic mark as the most decorated player in soccer history. After arriving at PSG from AS Roma in July 2013, Marquinhos joined the club at the dawn of their era of domestic dominance. Now serving as team captain at 32 years old, the Brazilian center back has secured two UEFA Champions League titles and two UEFA Super Cup trophies following Wednesday’s 2-1 victory over Aston Villa. By lifting the European trophy, Marquinhos raised his career total to 44 professional titles. The defender won the 2012 Copa Libertadores with Corinthians, along with the South American U-17 Championship, the 2019 Copa America, and an Olympic gold medal at the 2016 Rio Games with the Brazil national team, while earning the rest of his silverware in the French capital. With his total at PSG climbing to 40, Marquinhos has now won more trophies with a single club than any other player in history. The Super Cup victory allowed him to break the previous record held by legend Hossam Ashour, who won 39 titles with Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly. Marquinhos of Paris Saint-Germain lifts the UEFA Super Cup trophy. (Alex Grimm/Getty Images) Marquinhos’ trophy breakdown Including the South American U-17 Championship with Brazil, Marquinhos’ trophy cabinet breaks down as follows: Ligue 1: 11Trophee des Champions / French Super Cup: 10Coupe de France: 8Coupe de la Ligue: 6UEFA Champions League: 2UEFA Super Cup: 2FIFA Intercontinental Cup: 1Copa Libertadores: 1Copa America: 1Olympic Games: 1South American U-17 Championship: 1 How far is Messi from Marquinhos? Marquinhos has already locked down the number two spot on the all-time list, passing countryman Dani Alves, who retired with 42 career titles. Unlike the former right back, Lionel Messi remains active, but his ultimate record is facing a real threat of being matched or even broken in the near future. At present, Lionel Messi leads all players with 48 official career titles. The Argentine star reached that milestone by capturing 35 trophies with FC Barcelona, three with PSG, three with Inter Miami, and seven with the Argentina national team, including his 2008 Olympic gold medal and the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup title. With Inter Miami eliminated from both the CONCACAF Champions Cup and the Leagues Cup, Messi can contend for a maximum of two trophies in 2026: the Supporters’ Shield and the MLS Cup. Marquinhos, meanwhile, can narrow the gap as early as this weekend, when PSG face RC Lens in the 2026 Trophee des Champions.
Arsenal could be handed a sensational opportunity to sign Victor Osimhen after the striker’s name reportedly emerged during negotiations between the Gunners and Galatasaray. The Turkish champions are currently exploring deals for Arsenal stars Gabriel Martinelli and Ethan Nwaneri, but discussions between the two clubs could potentially lead to an unexpected move for one of […] The post Forget Alvarez! Arsenal may have just been handed sensational opportunity to sign 59-goal striker in potential swap deal – opinion appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Set to return to MLS play, Lionel Messi has been dealt with a major defensive setback as Inter Miami released an injury update addressing Micael's status. Lionel Messi and Inter Miami suffered a 3-2 defeat against Club Leon in the Leagues Cup, and following their elimination from the tournament, the 2026 MLS regular season has shifted back to being their primary focus. However, the back line has taken a major hit after Inter Miami released an official injury update on center back Micael. After starting Wednesday’s match against Club Leon, Micael was forced to exit in the 33rd minute after twisting his ankle and being unable to continue. Though he managed to walk off the pitch under his own power, Fricio Caicedo came on as his replacement at center back in a match that ultimately ended in a 3-2 victory for the Mexican side, leaving Inter Miami eliminated from the Leagues Cup in the round of 16. The day after the elimination, Inter Miami released a statement addressing Micael’s condition. “Micael underwent an MRI today, which confirmed that he has a sprained right ankle sustained during last night’s Leagues Cup match against Club Leon,” part of the official update read. While confirming the injury, the Florida side did not disclose the severity or provide a firm recovery timeline. Instead, Inter Miami noted that Micael will begin a period of rest and treatment, adding that “his progress will dictate his gradual return to team training.“ Micael #16 of Inter Miami CF reacts after suffering an injury against Club Leon. (Rich Storry/Getty Images) Asked about the Brazilian’s injury during his post-match press conference, manager Guillermo Hoyos spoke candidly about what losing him would mean for the squad: “Micael has a significant sprain, and we will see what is determined during the medical examination. But it is a significant sprain, and for us, it would also be a significant loss. He is very important.“ How long will Micael be out? Much like Messi’s importance in the attack, Micael has established himself as the anchor of the defense, featuring in every single match for Inter Miami this season except for a MLS Matchday 4 clash against Charlotte FC back in March when he was rested, totalling 22 games. Now, his target return date will depend entirely on the severity of the sprain. A Grade 3 sprain, which involves a complete ligament tear and carries a two-to-three-month recovery period, seems unlikely given that Micael walked off the field unaided. If he suffered a Grade 1 sprain (micro-tears) or a Grade 2 sprain (partial tearing), his recovery timeline will likely range anywhere from one to six weeks. Who will replace Micael? Micael has cemented his status as a cornerstone of the defense while also providing a dangerous aerial threat, evidenced by his recent goal off a Messi corner kick against Atletico San Luis. Now, Hoyos faces the task of replacing a player who has arguably been Inter Miami’s most consistent defender this season. In terms of stylistic fit, recent signing Fricio Caicedo is the most natural replacement. Compared to options like Ian Fray, Gonzalo Lujan, or a returning Maximiliano Falcon, the Ecuadorian defender offers a 6-foot-4 frame and a left-footed profile that make him the ideal candidate to preserve the team’s build-up play from the left side of defense.
Brian Madjo needed only 17 minutes to change Aston Villa's outlook for the forthcoming season. In that time he bullied Willian Pacho, one of the best markers in the world, and gave Marquinhos a fright.
Savinho is pushing to leave Manchester City as Tottenham step up their pursuit of the Brazilian winger with an £85 million offer on the table. The 22-year-old has reportedly made his desire to move to North London clear to City’s hierarchy, with Spurs attempting to complete a blockbuster deal before the transfer window closes. Spurs […] The post Tottenham target takes drastic step to force exit as Spurs make £85m offer appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Inter Miami were eliminated from the 2026 Leagues Cup after falling 3-2 to Club León, where Lionel Messi returned to action following the passing of his father. Inter Miami’s run in the 2026 Leagues Cup came to an end on Wednesday, falling 3-2 to Club Leon at Nu Stadium. But even in defeat, the story of the night belonged to Lionel Messi, who made an emotional return to the pitch just days after the passing of his father, Jorge Messi. Leon manager Javier Gandolfi didn’t hold back when asked about facing Messi under those circumstances. “For people to understand what Leo Messi is, I think it was proven today. I think words fall short. He’s a competitive animal, a player who, in my opinion, is the best in history. He’s the best in history on the field, and then with things we see from a distance,” he said during postgame press conference. Messi entered off the bench at the start of the second half with Miami leading 1-0, but Leon rallied behind a brace from Daniel Arcila and a goal from Juan Domínguez to complete the comeback, with Dániel Pintér and Yannick Bright scoring for Miami. The result sent Leon through to the knockout stage after winning all three of their group matches, while Miami’s Leagues Cup campaign ended with just one win in three outings. Este abrazo es de León, de todos, del futbol, y es para ti querido Lionel.RESPETO Y CARIÑO 💚@TeamMessi pic.twitter.com/D1Tdb03DOf— Club León (@clubleonfc) August 13, 2026 Even in a moment of personal grief, Messi’s decision to suit up resonated well beyond his own locker room, drawing praise from teammates and opponents alike for a display of commitment that few in the sport could match. Miami’s locker room rallies around Messi Inside Inter Miami‘s own squad, the reaction to Messi’s return was just as emotional. Casemiro called it an example for everyone around him: “He’s an example, because in the end he’s surely going through a very tough time… I had never seen anything like that in my life,” he said, adding that “the commitment he has to us and the commitment he has to the club is something to applaud”. Bright echoed that sentiment from his own perspective, admitting he didn’t expect to see Messi in the squad at all. “It’s incredible. I wasn’t expecting it and it shows how much he cares,” he said, before pledging to give “150%” for his captain going forward — a fitting response from a group that, despite the early exit, made clear where its focus truly was on the night.
I’ve genuinely seen Arsenal fans on social media complaining about Galatasaray offering ‘only’ €45m for Gabriel Martinelli, whilst urging their club not to sign Pedro Neto. I’m not sure what planet these fans live on, but that Martinelli fee can be very easily explained with the number one, representing the number of years left on […] The post Unpopular opinion: Arsenal fans have lost touch with reality if they don’t want this £75m Gabriel Martinelli replacement appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino (Picture: Getty) Mikel Merino says Arsenal ‘probably’ have the ‘best midfield in football’ after Bruno Guimaraes’ £75m move from Newcastle United. The Premier League champions signed Brazil international Guimaraes on a four-year deal after a protracted saga with Newcastle. Guimaraes bolsters an Arsenal midfield that already includes captain Martin Odegaard, England stars Declan Rice and Eberechi Eze, former Real Madrid target Martin Zubimendi, academy graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly and World Cup winner Merino. Arsenal will try to retain their Premier League crown this season while mounting another challenge for the Champions League after losing to PSG in the final back in May. Get the latest transfer news every morning Sign up to our daily football newsletter for personalised updates on who your team is trying to sign and who won't be around next season. Merino, who has returned to Arsenal after helping Spain win the World Cup, believes the Gunners are in good shape to do just that after the ‘amazing’ signing of Guimaraes. Guimaraes made his first appearance for Arsenal in Wednesday’s pre-season draw with Cesc Fabregas’ Como. ‘Amazing signing,’ Merino said when asked about the Newcastle star swapping St James’ Park for the Emirates Stadium. Mikel Arteta and new Arsenal signing Bruno Guimaraes (Picture: Getty) ‘He has proved throughout these years how good he is at Newcastle. And he showed it today again. A lot of composure, technical ability, a lot of defensive effort as well. ‘So it’s a very good signing. A top player, but we have many of those in this team. So everyone that comes to help the team is welcome.’ Asked about the strength of Arsenal’s midfield following Guimaraes’ arrival, Merino added: ‘Honestly, it’s unreal. Probably the best midfield in football. Arsenal are hoping to retain the Premier League (Picture: Getty) ‘The amount of quality that we have there, with every player that can come on the pitch and make a good shift. It’s great. ‘That’s good for the team. That’s good for the squad. It raises everyone’s level because if you have a bad day, the one that is close to you is going to do a great job. ‘I think we have an amazing squad. The hunger is still there. Not because we won it last season, we’re going to be happy with it. https://www.instagram.com/p/Dbyqbq_COQ2/?hl=en&img_index=1 ‘We want more and more and more and we want every trophy possible. That’s the best quality of this team. Not only the amount of depth that we have, the quality that we have in every position, but that hunger.’ Premier League legend and ex-England striker Alan Shearer also believes Arsenal boast arguably the best midfield on the planet following the deal for Guimaraes. ‘Arsenal are signing a top-quality player in Bruno Guimaraes,’ the Newcastle hero told Betfair. ‘There’s no doubt about that. ‘They’re signing a player who’s so comfortable on the ball under pressure, who can make that killer pass. He’s got a great attitude, too, we’ve seen that at Newcastle. ‘So, there’s no doubt he’ll improve them. I think with the likes of Rice, Odegaard and Bruno, there won’t be many better midfields out there.’ Arsenal begin their Premier League title defence with a home match against newly-promoted Coventry City a week on Friday. For more stories like this, check our sport page. Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Comment now Comments Add Metro as a Preferred Source on Google Add as preferred source
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