Match story
- Real Madrid created the clearer chances on xG (1.80 vs 1.32, Δ 0.48).
- Real Madrid fired more attempts (15 vs 12 shots).
- Real Madrid was more accurate in front of goal (53% on target vs 33%).
Real Madrid defeated Manchester City 3-1 in UEFA Champions League. The fixture is part of the Knockout Round Play-offs stage in the 2024 season. The match was played at Estadio Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid. I. Kovács officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Real Madrid vs Manchester City meeting in UEFA Champions League 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 Real Madrid and Manchester City. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
UEFA Champions LeagueRecorded meetings: 10 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
Real Madrid defeated Manchester City 3-1 in UEFA Champions League. The fixture is part of the Knockout Round Play-offs stage in the 2024 season. The match was played at Estadio Santiago Bernabéu in Madrid. I. Kovács officiated the match. The full-time result capped a Real Madrid vs Manchester City meeting in UEFA Champions League 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 Real Madrid and Manchester City. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
UEFA Champions LeagueRecorded meetings: 10 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema have shared the Saudi Pro League spotlight since their moves to the Middle East, but the latest development surrounding the Frenchman's future could take their rivalry in a completely unexpected direction. Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema have shared the Saudi Pro League spotlight since their moves to the Middle East, but the latest development surrounding the Frenchman’s future could take their rivalry in a completely unexpected direction. With Benzema’s position at Al-Hilal increasingly uncertain, a surprising Turkish destination has now emerged, potentially setting up a blockbuster reunion with another global superstar. Benzema’s future has become increasingly complicated after Al-Hilal began considering a major overhaul of its attacking options. The former Real Madrid captain remains productive, but his place in Simone Inzaghi’s plans is reportedly under serious scrutiny, creating uncertainty over where the 38-year-old will play next. Benzema joined Al-Hilal in January after ending his spell with Al-Ittihad, but his time in Riyadh could already be approaching an unexpected conclusion. The Frenchman has scored nine goals and provided five assists in 13 appearances for the Blue Waves, showing that his individual numbers remain impressive despite the doubts surrounding his future. The club is reportedly considering terminating his contract as it looks to reshape its squad and accommodate another high-profile striker. Harry Kane, Ollie Watkins and Victor Osimhen have all emerged as possible targets, with Inzaghi understood to want another center-forward for the new campaign. Karim Benzema of Al Hilal celebrates with his coach Simone Inzaghi The situation is complicated by Benzema’s contract, as the striker reportedly wants the full amount owed for the final year of his deal before agreeing to leave. That demand has made negotiations more difficult and could determine whether Al-Hilal can move ahead with its preferred attacking changes. Turkish Super Lig suddenly enters the Benzema race That uncertainty has now opened the door to the surprise development involving Trabzonspor, which has reportedly made contact regarding Benzema. According to Turkish journalist Yagız Sabuncuoglu, the club has inquired about the conditions required to sign the veteran striker while its discussions with Al-Hilal continue. “Trabzonspor inquired about the conditions for Karim Benzema, who wears the Al-Hilal shirt!” Sabuncuoglu reported on X (formerly Twitter). He added: “Trabzonspor has not yet reached an agreement in their discussions with Al-Hilal. As the process continues, Karim Benzema was offered to Trabzonspor, and simultaneous talks with the French star have begun!” Trabzonspor, Al-Hilal ile yaptığı görüşmelerde henüz anlaşmaya varamadı. Süreç devam ederken Karim Benzema, Trabzonspor'a önerildi ve Fransız yıldızla eşzamanlı görüşmeler başladı! https://t.co/1ssqyHDXON— Yağız Sabuncuoğlu (@yagosabuncuoglu) August 18, 2026 The move represents a major change in Trabzonspor’s transfer strategy, particularly because the club had failed to close a deal for Darwin Nunez. With those negotiations yet to produce an agreement, Benzema has emerged as an experienced alternative for the attack. Mohamed Salah could make the move even bigger The biggest twist is the possibility that Benzema could join Mohamed Salah at Trabzonspor, creating a remarkable attacking partnership if the negotiations progress. Salah reportedly joined the Turkish club on a free transfer after leaving Liverpool, signing a two-year contract on August 6. Mohamed Salah at Trabzonspor That would give the Claret-Blues two of the most recognizable forwards of their generation in the same attack. Salah’s arrival has already transformed the profile of the Turkish club, while Benzema would add Champions League experience, elite finishing and the pedigree of a former Ballon d’Or winner. However, the talks remain at an early stage, and there is currently no
Tough start awaits for promoted trio, with Premier League matches against last season’s top three and European qualifiersCoventry signed off their previous Premier League campaign with a match against Bradford City, the one team to finish below them in 2000-01. They pick up again in the top flight away to Arsenal; last season’s champions, favourites to retain the crown and the No 1 ranked side in the world according to Opta.At least they will have played what should be the hardest fixture of their 38 first. Except that their next away trip takes them to the Etihad Stadium to face Manchester City. Continue reading...
With the 2026 World Cup only drawing to a close last month, there has been essentially no rest for Europe’s elite. Watching Arsenal finally end their 22-year wait for a Premier League crown, the Gunners will officially get the defence of their domestic title underway this weekend as the 2026/27 campaign opens. With proceedings set […] The post Premier League 2026/27 Preview: A New Era Begins For England’s Elite appeared first on SoccerNews.
Former Manchester United striker Teddy Sheringham (Picture: Getty) Teddy Sheringham has questioned Manchester United’s decision to sign Youri Tielemans, insisting the midfielder is ‘not good enough’ for Michael Carrick’s side. The Red Devils made it a priority to bolster their central midfield this summer following the departure of Casemiro at the end of last season. United had been linked with the likes of Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, but saw their efforts gazumped by rivals Manchester City and Tottenham. Instead, the club turned to other Premier League proven talent, signing Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Tielemans from Aston Villa. Exclusive Premier League previews Get ahead of the start of the season with our weekly football newsletter. Sign up now for free. The arrival of Tielemans for just £35million has been praised by many, with former United midfielder Nicky Butt hailing the deal as the ‘signing of the summer’. But Sheringham is not as convinced by the 29-year-old’s arrival, and believes his former club should have ‘broken the bank’ to sign their loftier targets earlier in the window. ‘Manchester United have already missed their opportunity to sign the other midfielder they needed because all the big players have gone now,’ he told MetBonus. Manchester United summer signing Youri Tielemans (Picture: Getty) ‘If you want the best, you have to go and pay for it. We’ve seen it over the years. Look back to Sir Alex Ferguson’s time in charge. ‘He went and broke the bank to go and get these top young players who were going to lead by example. ‘Is Youri Tielemans going to lead by example or is he going to go into United to have a bit of fun, enjoy the ride, feeling happy to be there? No. ‘He’s not going to change everyone’s view of Manchester United or demand more and take them back to the top. He’s going to make them OK, and that’s never good enough for a club like Manchester United.’ Andrey Santos has also signed for United this summer (Picture: Getty) Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has also shared his reservations about United’s decision to sign Tielemans, saying on The Overlap: ‘The thing with Tielemans, I was watching the Super Cup and I’d just seen that Man United were on ITV playing Leeds, so I put it on. ‘It just came to me a little bit – Tielemans was taking a corner, and it come to me, he’s a good player, don’t get me wrong. ‘But you’d almost feel like he should have been at United a few years ago, then gone to Villa – not being at Villa, then gone to United. ‘I’m not saying he’s had his best days, but it almost felt like the wrong way round. The last three years should have been at United, and then he gets sold to Villa.’ United are poised to sign their third central midfielder of the summer window, with reports indicating they are close to agreeing a deal for Carlos Baleba. The Red Devils have held a long-standing interest in the Brighton midfielder and have lodged an initial bid in the region of £60million plus £5m in add-ons. While that offer is below Brighton’s valuation, it is said that both clubs are keen to finalise a deal for the 22-year-old Cameroon international. 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
Viktor Gyokeres scored 14 goals last season to help Arsenal win the Premier League (Photo: Getty) Viktor Gyokeres has heaped praise on one of Arsenal’s summer signings but has dismissed any notion that they are the favourites to win the Premier League. Following their impressive Community Shield win over Manchester City, the Gunners begin their title defence against Championship champions Coventry City on Friday night. In Cardiff, Mikel Arteta handed a debut to £75million summer signing Bruno Guimaraes who performed well, but it was fellow debutant Christos Tzolis who really caught the eye. The Greek winger provided two assists, carrying over his good form from pre-season and from Club Brugge, where he recorded 22 goals and 29 assists last season. Exclusive Premier League previews Get ahead of the start of the season with our weekly football newsletter. Sign up now for free. No player in Europe set up more goals last season, prompting Arteta to splash £34m on the former Norwich star, and Gyokeres reports that Tzolis is settling in nicely at the Emirates. ‘He’s a top guy. He’s a very nice guy outside and of course a very good player on the pitch,’ the striker told talkSPORT. ‘He contributes a lot and he’s very good in his decision making. In the final third, he makes good decisions there and managed to get a lot of goal contributions. Christos Tzolis got two assists on his Arsenal debut in the Community Shield (Photo: Getty) ‘That’s what every team needs and of course everyone that plays in our team wants to do that when they’re on the pitch and if he does that, it’s only good.’ With nearly all their main rivals changing managers and undergoing rebuilds this summer, Arsenal have been installed as the clear and early favourites to retain their title in 2026/27. But Gyokeres does not believe his team have gone from ‘the hunters to the hunted’, and insists anything can happen this season: ‘Everyone starts on zero points. Arsenal will start the season against Coventry – Gyokeres’ former club (Photo: Getty) ‘I think it doesn’t matter what they’ve done last season or the season before that or whatever. It’s a new season; it’s the same for everyone. ‘Everyone’s going to play the same amount of games. So, we have to do it all over again. ‘We don’t have to defend it, we just have to win as many games as we can and then hopefully, we’ll be there in the end again.’ 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
Everton start their Premier League campaign against Crystal Palace, with a potential deal for Jack Grealish still hanging in the balance. The post Everton have ‘remained in contact’ with Grealish, says CEO Kinnear appeared first on SoccerNews.
Former Chelsea striker Carlton Cole (Picture: YouTube) Carlton Cole says Chelsea summer signing Morgan Rogers ‘messed up’ Arsenal’s transfer window by joining the Blues from Aston Villa. Rogers, 24, was heavily linked with Arsenal earlier in the summer and during England’s World Cup campaign. Mikel Arteta identified Rogers as one of his top targets to bolster a Gunners squad that won the Premier League and reached the Champions League final last season. Arsenal were believed to be leading the race to sign Rogers but Chelsea swooped in with an incredible £117m deal, making the West Brom academy graduate the most expensive British player in history. Exclusive Premier League previews Get ahead of the start of the season with our weekly football newsletter. Sign up now for free. Ex-England striker Cole believes Rogers’ decision to join Chelsea ‘messed up’ Arsenal’s transfer window and says the Gunners still need to sign another attacking midfielder who can play on the left. Arteta is a known admirer of Bradley Barcola but Arsenal are currently behind Liverpool in that particular transfer race as they are reluctant to meet PSG’s £140m asking price. ‘Arsenal’s squad depth is something else,’ West Ham hero and former Chelsea star Cole said on the Dressing Room podcast. Chelsea summer signing Morgan Rogers (Picture: Getty) ‘Bruno Guimaraes has come in – he’s a brilliant player – and I still think they probably want one more signing before the window shuts. ‘I know they’re still trying to do a little bit of business. I think they need another left-sided forward, they’re obvious in the running to sign Barcola – they need someone like that. ‘I think it was supposed to Morgan Rogers, he was supposed to go there, but he opted for Chelsea which messed up Arsenal because I think it was nearly done before Chelsea swooped in and he agreed to go there. Why Morgan Rogers chose Chelsea ‘I’m joining the biggest club in London,’ Rogers said at his Chelsea unveiling. ‘The way the club wants to go and how it wants to move forward, it is something that I want to be a part of and I think it was just perfect for me. ‘I’m really excited about the project with the new manager, the players we’ve got and where the club is heading. That’s why I’m here and I can’t wait to get started.’ https://www.instagram.com/p/DbFxKCfsDDX/?hl=en ‘I’ve heard that Barcola would prefer to go to Arsenal than Liverpool but Arsenal won’t pay the fee that’s required for him. Liverpool would still be a great place for him to flourish.’ While Cole believes Arsenal could do with securing one more major signing before the transfer deadline, he does expect the Gunners to retain their Premier League crown. Arteta’s side won the title by seven points last season and secured a statement 3-0 win over Manchester City in Sunday’s Community Shield. Mikel Arteta missed out on the England star (Picture: Getty) ‘I’m going to go with Arsenal to win the league ahead of Chelsea and Man City,’ Cole said when asked for his Premier League title prediction. ‘Arsenal have the best squad and if they get Victor Osimhen in as well they’re going to be flying. He will be up there for the Golden Boot if he goes to Arsenal. ‘But I think they’re still alright with what they’ve got at the moment. They just need to sort out that left-hand side. ‘Chelsea are an interesting one because they’ve got no European games, they haven’t got the Saturday-Tuesday fixture pill-up. ‘Xabi Alonso at the helm as well, he knows how to win games, he proved that at Bayer Leverkusen. ‘I just think that squad is very, very strong considering that don’t need to worry about European games. ‘I’ve put Man City third, I think they will find it tough without Pep Guardiola and Rodri, they’re going to find it hard.’ 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
Manchester United boss Michael Carrick (Picture: Getty) Manchester United have made an approach to sign Spain World Cup winner Gavi after Barcelona signed Rodri from Manchester City. Michael Carrick remains keen to bolster his midfield options before the summer transfer window closes in less than two weeks time. United signed Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa and Andrey Santos from Chelsea earlier in the summer but are open to a third midfield signing following Casemiro’s departure and Manuel Ugarte’s long-term injury. Manchester United were linked with Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes before they both moves to Tottenham and also missed out on the likes of Elliot Anderson and Morgan Rogers. Exclusive Premier League previews Get ahead of the start of the season with our weekly football newsletter. Sign up now for free. According to the Daily Mirror, Old Trafford bosses have made an ambitious approach to sign Gavi after Barcelona’s impressive deal for fellow World Cup winner Rodri. Rodri, who won four Premier League titles and the Ballon d’Or during his spell at Man City, looked set to join Real Madrid with Jose Mourinho keen to welcome him to the Bernabeu. But Barcelona beat their La Liga rivals to a stunning deal, spending a relatively modest fee of £65m to sign one of the most influential players in the world. Barcelona star and World Cup winner Gavi (Picture: Getty) Manchester United targeted Gavi after Rodri’s move back to Spain but the 22-year-old immediately rejected their advances as he wants to stay at Barca. Gavi came through Barcelona’s academy before breaking into the first-team in 2021 and has since made over 150 appearances for the current La Liga champions. Carrick is believed to be a huge admirer of Gavi, a member of Spain’s World Cup-winning squad this summer, but will have to look elsewhere for midfield reinforcements. New Barcelona signing Rodri (Picture: Getty) Reports in Spain recently suggested Barcelona could be receptive to the idea of selling Rodri but transfer expert Fabrizio Romano dismissed this possibility. ‘Gavi is not leaving Barcelona, absolutely impossible,’ he said. ‘Barca are more than happy with Gavi. ‘I would not be surprised if in the next months, Gavi and Barca start discussing a new contract. It’s not something imminent, so I don’t want to throw things that are not happening today, tomorrow, or in a few days. Gavi helped Spain win the World Cup (Picture: Getty) ‘But in the next months, I would not be surprised if you see a conversation between Gavi, and Barca over a new contract. ‘Gavi’s super happy with Barca. Rodri joining Barca is only good news for Gavi. Gavi and Rodri have an excellent relationship. ‘It doesn’t mean that Rodri is going to Barca so Gavi wants to go, it’s not true at all, and Gavi’s staying.’ https://www.instagram.com/p/DcMubA4uV7I/?hl=en While Manchester United’s move for Gavi was rebuffed, they are making progress on a deal for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba. Baleba was heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford last summer and Manchester United have offered Brighton a deal worth £65m this week. After leaving Manchester City to join Barcelona, Rodri said: ‘I’m very happy to have arrived. The last few days have been intense, but I’m glad everything has been sorted out. Man Utd are working on a deal for Carlos Baleba (Picture: Getty) ‘Of course, playing for FC Barcelona is a dream. I can’t wait to be with my team-mates, many of whom I already know from the national team. It’s time to get to work and give my very best.’ In a message to Manchester City posted on the club’s official website, Rodri added: ‘Dear City fans, I found that saying goodbye is one of the most difficult things in life but I am going to try. ‘It’s hard to find the words to express how much gratitude, love and support me and my family have experienced all these years. Man Utd summer signing Youri Tielemans (Picture: Getty) ‘I remember how I felt when I arrived, signing for the big Manchester City.
"I have been incredibly privileged to play here and I have relished every minute of my time here," Tijjani Reijnders has said after departing Manchester City for Saudi Pro League side Al Qadsiah. The Netherlands midfielder made 50 appearances for City, scoring seven goals and contributing eight assists, and helped City win both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup last season. "From the very moment I arrived, everyone at the club made me feel so welcome and a part of the Manchester City family," Reijnders said.
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Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema have shared the Saudi Pro League spotlight since their moves to the Middle East, but the latest development surrounding the Frenchman's future could take their rivalry in a completely unexpected direction. Cristiano Ronaldo and Karim Benzema have shared the Saudi Pro League spotlight since their moves to the Middle East, but the latest development surrounding the Frenchman’s future could take their rivalry in a completely unexpected direction. With Benzema’s position at Al-Hilal increasingly uncertain, a surprising Turkish destination has now emerged, potentially setting up a blockbuster reunion with another global superstar. Benzema’s future has become increasingly complicated after Al-Hilal began considering a major overhaul of its attacking options. The former Real Madrid captain remains productive, but his place in Simone Inzaghi’s plans is reportedly under serious scrutiny, creating uncertainty over where the 38-year-old will play next. Benzema joined Al-Hilal in January after ending his spell with Al-Ittihad, but his time in Riyadh could already be approaching an unexpected conclusion. The Frenchman has scored nine goals and provided five assists in 13 appearances for the Blue Waves, showing that his individual numbers remain impressive despite the doubts surrounding his future. The club is reportedly considering terminating his contract as it looks to reshape its squad and accommodate another high-profile striker. Harry Kane, Ollie Watkins and Victor Osimhen have all emerged as possible targets, with Inzaghi understood to want another center-forward for the new campaign. Karim Benzema of Al Hilal celebrates with his coach Simone Inzaghi The situation is complicated by Benzema’s contract, as the striker reportedly wants the full amount owed for the final year of his deal before agreeing to leave. That demand has made negotiations more difficult and could determine whether Al-Hilal can move ahead with its preferred attacking changes. Turkish Super Lig suddenly enters the Benzema race That uncertainty has now opened the door to the surprise development involving Trabzonspor, which has reportedly made contact regarding Benzema. According to Turkish journalist Yagız Sabuncuoglu, the club has inquired about the conditions required to sign the veteran striker while its discussions with Al-Hilal continue. “Trabzonspor inquired about the conditions for Karim Benzema, who wears the Al-Hilal shirt!” Sabuncuoglu reported on X (formerly Twitter). He added: “Trabzonspor has not yet reached an agreement in their discussions with Al-Hilal. As the process continues, Karim Benzema was offered to Trabzonspor, and simultaneous talks with the French star have begun!” Trabzonspor, Al-Hilal ile yaptığı görüşmelerde henüz anlaşmaya varamadı. Süreç devam ederken Karim Benzema, Trabzonspor'a önerildi ve Fransız yıldızla eşzamanlı görüşmeler başladı! https://t.co/1ssqyHDXON— Yağız Sabuncuoğlu (@yagosabuncuoglu) August 18, 2026 The move represents a major change in Trabzonspor’s transfer strategy, particularly because the club had failed to close a deal for Darwin Nunez. With those negotiations yet to produce an agreement, Benzema has emerged as an experienced alternative for the attack. Mohamed Salah could make the move even bigger The biggest twist is the possibility that Benzema could join Mohamed Salah at Trabzonspor, creating a remarkable attacking partnership if the negotiations progress. Salah reportedly joined the Turkish club on a free transfer after leaving Liverpool, signing a two-year contract on August 6. Mohamed Salah at Trabzonspor That would give the Claret-Blues two of the most recognizable forwards of their generation in the same attack. Salah’s arrival has already transformed the profile of the Turkish club, while Benzema would add Champions League experience, elite finishing and the pedigree of a former Ballon d’Or winner. However, the talks remain at an early stage, and there is currently no
Tough start awaits for promoted trio, with Premier League matches against last season’s top three and European qualifiersCoventry signed off their previous Premier League campaign with a match against Bradford City, the one team to finish below them in 2000-01. They pick up again in the top flight away to Arsenal; last season’s champions, favourites to retain the crown and the No 1 ranked side in the world according to Opta.At least they will have played what should be the hardest fixture of their 38 first. Except that their next away trip takes them to the Etihad Stadium to face Manchester City. Continue reading...
With the 2026 World Cup only drawing to a close last month, there has been essentially no rest for Europe’s elite. Watching Arsenal finally end their 22-year wait for a Premier League crown, the Gunners will officially get the defence of their domestic title underway this weekend as the 2026/27 campaign opens. With proceedings set […] The post Premier League 2026/27 Preview: A New Era Begins For England’s Elite appeared first on SoccerNews.
Former Manchester United striker Teddy Sheringham (Picture: Getty) Teddy Sheringham has questioned Manchester United’s decision to sign Youri Tielemans, insisting the midfielder is ‘not good enough’ for Michael Carrick’s side. The Red Devils made it a priority to bolster their central midfield this summer following the departure of Casemiro at the end of last season. United had been linked with the likes of Elliot Anderson, Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, but saw their efforts gazumped by rivals Manchester City and Tottenham. Instead, the club turned to other Premier League proven talent, signing Andrey Santos from Chelsea and Tielemans from Aston Villa. Exclusive Premier League previews Get ahead of the start of the season with our weekly football newsletter. Sign up now for free. The arrival of Tielemans for just £35million has been praised by many, with former United midfielder Nicky Butt hailing the deal as the ‘signing of the summer’. But Sheringham is not as convinced by the 29-year-old’s arrival, and believes his former club should have ‘broken the bank’ to sign their loftier targets earlier in the window. ‘Manchester United have already missed their opportunity to sign the other midfielder they needed because all the big players have gone now,’ he told MetBonus. Manchester United summer signing Youri Tielemans (Picture: Getty) ‘If you want the best, you have to go and pay for it. We’ve seen it over the years. Look back to Sir Alex Ferguson’s time in charge. ‘He went and broke the bank to go and get these top young players who were going to lead by example. ‘Is Youri Tielemans going to lead by example or is he going to go into United to have a bit of fun, enjoy the ride, feeling happy to be there? No. ‘He’s not going to change everyone’s view of Manchester United or demand more and take them back to the top. He’s going to make them OK, and that’s never good enough for a club like Manchester United.’ Andrey Santos has also signed for United this summer (Picture: Getty) Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has also shared his reservations about United’s decision to sign Tielemans, saying on The Overlap: ‘The thing with Tielemans, I was watching the Super Cup and I’d just seen that Man United were on ITV playing Leeds, so I put it on. ‘It just came to me a little bit – Tielemans was taking a corner, and it come to me, he’s a good player, don’t get me wrong. ‘But you’d almost feel like he should have been at United a few years ago, then gone to Villa – not being at Villa, then gone to United. ‘I’m not saying he’s had his best days, but it almost felt like the wrong way round. The last three years should have been at United, and then he gets sold to Villa.’ United are poised to sign their third central midfielder of the summer window, with reports indicating they are close to agreeing a deal for Carlos Baleba. The Red Devils have held a long-standing interest in the Brighton midfielder and have lodged an initial bid in the region of £60million plus £5m in add-ons. While that offer is below Brighton’s valuation, it is said that both clubs are keen to finalise a deal for the 22-year-old Cameroon international. 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
Viktor Gyokeres scored 14 goals last season to help Arsenal win the Premier League (Photo: Getty) Viktor Gyokeres has heaped praise on one of Arsenal’s summer signings but has dismissed any notion that they are the favourites to win the Premier League. Following their impressive Community Shield win over Manchester City, the Gunners begin their title defence against Championship champions Coventry City on Friday night. In Cardiff, Mikel Arteta handed a debut to £75million summer signing Bruno Guimaraes who performed well, but it was fellow debutant Christos Tzolis who really caught the eye. The Greek winger provided two assists, carrying over his good form from pre-season and from Club Brugge, where he recorded 22 goals and 29 assists last season. Exclusive Premier League previews Get ahead of the start of the season with our weekly football newsletter. Sign up now for free. No player in Europe set up more goals last season, prompting Arteta to splash £34m on the former Norwich star, and Gyokeres reports that Tzolis is settling in nicely at the Emirates. ‘He’s a top guy. He’s a very nice guy outside and of course a very good player on the pitch,’ the striker told talkSPORT. ‘He contributes a lot and he’s very good in his decision making. In the final third, he makes good decisions there and managed to get a lot of goal contributions. Christos Tzolis got two assists on his Arsenal debut in the Community Shield (Photo: Getty) ‘That’s what every team needs and of course everyone that plays in our team wants to do that when they’re on the pitch and if he does that, it’s only good.’ With nearly all their main rivals changing managers and undergoing rebuilds this summer, Arsenal have been installed as the clear and early favourites to retain their title in 2026/27. But Gyokeres does not believe his team have gone from ‘the hunters to the hunted’, and insists anything can happen this season: ‘Everyone starts on zero points. Arsenal will start the season against Coventry – Gyokeres’ former club (Photo: Getty) ‘I think it doesn’t matter what they’ve done last season or the season before that or whatever. It’s a new season; it’s the same for everyone. ‘Everyone’s going to play the same amount of games. So, we have to do it all over again. ‘We don’t have to defend it, we just have to win as many games as we can and then hopefully, we’ll be there in the end again.’ 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
Everton start their Premier League campaign against Crystal Palace, with a potential deal for Jack Grealish still hanging in the balance. The post Everton have ‘remained in contact’ with Grealish, says CEO Kinnear appeared first on SoccerNews.
Former Chelsea striker Carlton Cole (Picture: YouTube) Carlton Cole says Chelsea summer signing Morgan Rogers ‘messed up’ Arsenal’s transfer window by joining the Blues from Aston Villa. Rogers, 24, was heavily linked with Arsenal earlier in the summer and during England’s World Cup campaign. Mikel Arteta identified Rogers as one of his top targets to bolster a Gunners squad that won the Premier League and reached the Champions League final last season. Arsenal were believed to be leading the race to sign Rogers but Chelsea swooped in with an incredible £117m deal, making the West Brom academy graduate the most expensive British player in history. Exclusive Premier League previews Get ahead of the start of the season with our weekly football newsletter. Sign up now for free. Ex-England striker Cole believes Rogers’ decision to join Chelsea ‘messed up’ Arsenal’s transfer window and says the Gunners still need to sign another attacking midfielder who can play on the left. Arteta is a known admirer of Bradley Barcola but Arsenal are currently behind Liverpool in that particular transfer race as they are reluctant to meet PSG’s £140m asking price. ‘Arsenal’s squad depth is something else,’ West Ham hero and former Chelsea star Cole said on the Dressing Room podcast. Chelsea summer signing Morgan Rogers (Picture: Getty) ‘Bruno Guimaraes has come in – he’s a brilliant player – and I still think they probably want one more signing before the window shuts. ‘I know they’re still trying to do a little bit of business. I think they need another left-sided forward, they’re obvious in the running to sign Barcola – they need someone like that. ‘I think it was supposed to Morgan Rogers, he was supposed to go there, but he opted for Chelsea which messed up Arsenal because I think it was nearly done before Chelsea swooped in and he agreed to go there. Why Morgan Rogers chose Chelsea ‘I’m joining the biggest club in London,’ Rogers said at his Chelsea unveiling. ‘The way the club wants to go and how it wants to move forward, it is something that I want to be a part of and I think it was just perfect for me. ‘I’m really excited about the project with the new manager, the players we’ve got and where the club is heading. That’s why I’m here and I can’t wait to get started.’ https://www.instagram.com/p/DbFxKCfsDDX/?hl=en ‘I’ve heard that Barcola would prefer to go to Arsenal than Liverpool but Arsenal won’t pay the fee that’s required for him. Liverpool would still be a great place for him to flourish.’ While Cole believes Arsenal could do with securing one more major signing before the transfer deadline, he does expect the Gunners to retain their Premier League crown. Arteta’s side won the title by seven points last season and secured a statement 3-0 win over Manchester City in Sunday’s Community Shield. Mikel Arteta missed out on the England star (Picture: Getty) ‘I’m going to go with Arsenal to win the league ahead of Chelsea and Man City,’ Cole said when asked for his Premier League title prediction. ‘Arsenal have the best squad and if they get Victor Osimhen in as well they’re going to be flying. He will be up there for the Golden Boot if he goes to Arsenal. ‘But I think they’re still alright with what they’ve got at the moment. They just need to sort out that left-hand side. ‘Chelsea are an interesting one because they’ve got no European games, they haven’t got the Saturday-Tuesday fixture pill-up. ‘Xabi Alonso at the helm as well, he knows how to win games, he proved that at Bayer Leverkusen. ‘I just think that squad is very, very strong considering that don’t need to worry about European games. ‘I’ve put Man City third, I think they will find it tough without Pep Guardiola and Rodri, they’re going to find it hard.’ 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
Manchester United boss Michael Carrick (Picture: Getty) Manchester United have made an approach to sign Spain World Cup winner Gavi after Barcelona signed Rodri from Manchester City. Michael Carrick remains keen to bolster his midfield options before the summer transfer window closes in less than two weeks time. United signed Youri Tielemans from Aston Villa and Andrey Santos from Chelsea earlier in the summer but are open to a third midfield signing following Casemiro’s departure and Manuel Ugarte’s long-term injury. Manchester United were linked with Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes before they both moves to Tottenham and also missed out on the likes of Elliot Anderson and Morgan Rogers. Exclusive Premier League previews Get ahead of the start of the season with our weekly football newsletter. Sign up now for free. According to the Daily Mirror, Old Trafford bosses have made an ambitious approach to sign Gavi after Barcelona’s impressive deal for fellow World Cup winner Rodri. Rodri, who won four Premier League titles and the Ballon d’Or during his spell at Man City, looked set to join Real Madrid with Jose Mourinho keen to welcome him to the Bernabeu. But Barcelona beat their La Liga rivals to a stunning deal, spending a relatively modest fee of £65m to sign one of the most influential players in the world. Barcelona star and World Cup winner Gavi (Picture: Getty) Manchester United targeted Gavi after Rodri’s move back to Spain but the 22-year-old immediately rejected their advances as he wants to stay at Barca. Gavi came through Barcelona’s academy before breaking into the first-team in 2021 and has since made over 150 appearances for the current La Liga champions. Carrick is believed to be a huge admirer of Gavi, a member of Spain’s World Cup-winning squad this summer, but will have to look elsewhere for midfield reinforcements. New Barcelona signing Rodri (Picture: Getty) Reports in Spain recently suggested Barcelona could be receptive to the idea of selling Rodri but transfer expert Fabrizio Romano dismissed this possibility. ‘Gavi is not leaving Barcelona, absolutely impossible,’ he said. ‘Barca are more than happy with Gavi. ‘I would not be surprised if in the next months, Gavi and Barca start discussing a new contract. It’s not something imminent, so I don’t want to throw things that are not happening today, tomorrow, or in a few days. Gavi helped Spain win the World Cup (Picture: Getty) ‘But in the next months, I would not be surprised if you see a conversation between Gavi, and Barca over a new contract. ‘Gavi’s super happy with Barca. Rodri joining Barca is only good news for Gavi. Gavi and Rodri have an excellent relationship. ‘It doesn’t mean that Rodri is going to Barca so Gavi wants to go, it’s not true at all, and Gavi’s staying.’ https://www.instagram.com/p/DcMubA4uV7I/?hl=en While Manchester United’s move for Gavi was rebuffed, they are making progress on a deal for Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba. Baleba was heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford last summer and Manchester United have offered Brighton a deal worth £65m this week. After leaving Manchester City to join Barcelona, Rodri said: ‘I’m very happy to have arrived. The last few days have been intense, but I’m glad everything has been sorted out. Man Utd are working on a deal for Carlos Baleba (Picture: Getty) ‘Of course, playing for FC Barcelona is a dream. I can’t wait to be with my team-mates, many of whom I already know from the national team. It’s time to get to work and give my very best.’ In a message to Manchester City posted on the club’s official website, Rodri added: ‘Dear City fans, I found that saying goodbye is one of the most difficult things in life but I am going to try. ‘It’s hard to find the words to express how much gratitude, love and support me and my family have experienced all these years. Man Utd summer signing Youri Tielemans (Picture: Getty) ‘I remember how I felt when I arrived, signing for the big Manchester City.
"I have been incredibly privileged to play here and I have relished every minute of my time here," Tijjani Reijnders has said after departing Manchester City for Saudi Pro League side Al Qadsiah. The Netherlands midfielder made 50 appearances for City, scoring seven goals and contributing eight assists, and helped City win both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup last season. "From the very moment I arrived, everyone at the club made me feel so welcome and a part of the Manchester City family," Reijnders said.
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