All posts by z3u9t.icu

Manchester United’s frustrating managerial situation has continued into the third week since their famous FA Cup final victory over Manchester City. Despite the Red Devils lifting the famous trophy for the 13th time in their history, it has not guaranteed the future of Erik ten Hag, and he could still be sacked after a poor season.

United finished eigth in the Premier League and, as they did not qualify for Europe through their finish in the league, had to rely on their FA Cup victory. It was thanks to their Wembley triumph that Ten Hag’s side secured continental qualification for the 2024/25 season.

The search for a potential replacement for Ten Hag goes on, although one high-profile name was ruled out over the weekend. As per reputable journalist Fabrizio Romano, Thomas Tuchel will not be taking over at Old Trafford and will take an extended break from management instead.

Frustratingly, the lack of clarity on next season’s manager has led to some slow summer transfer business for United. They have yet to make a signing and seem to be losing ground in some deals, including one to sign Michael Olise from Crystal Palace. However, one transfer where United could have the upper hand is to sign one of Olise’s teammates at the Eagles.

Man Utd target Premier League midfielder

The player in question here is Palace and England international midfielder Eberechi Eze. It has been another impressive season for the former QPR man, with a potential transfer on the cards this summer and some big clubs considering lodging a bid.

Indeed, that is according to a report from Dan King of The Sun. The story suggests that sources believe the Red Devils hope to make Eze a “marquee signing” at Old Trafford this summer, although they would have to sell players to make it happen.

This is to ensure they can hit the £60m value that the Eagles have placed on the England international. Palace are said to be steadfast in their desire not to lose either Eze or Olise, but at least one could depart the club if the £60m value is matched.

However, United will not be the only Premier League side looking to sign the 25-year-old during the 2024 summer window. Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham Hotspur are rumoured to be interested in bringing him to North London and could lead the race to sign the midfielder. With that being said, Postecoglou “might be reluctant” to spend so much on Eze, and prefers to strengthen elsewhere in the squad first.

Why Eze would be a good signing

There is no doubt that Eze was one of the best creative midfielders in the Premier League last season. He scored 11 goals and registered four assists in just 27 top-flight games, as well as notching up two Carabao Cup assists. It was the most productive campaign of his career so far, having played far fewer games.

2020/21

34

4

6

2021/22

13

1

1

2022/23

38

10

4

2023/24

27

11

4

If Eze joined United over the summer, he could ignite a wonderful partnership with England teammate Kobbie Mainoo. The 19-year-old has become a key player at Old Trafford and is virtually undroppable for the Red Devils now.

Should both midfielders operate in the centre of the park for United next season, it could see Mainoo sit deeper and allow Eze to foray forward and contribute to attacks, alongside Bruno Fernandes.

Eze is a wonderful ball carrier, able to slalom easily between defenders. This is shown by his Fbref stats, where he averages 6.13 take-ons per 90 minutes, completing 3.02 of those per 90. This ranks him in the top 10% and 9% of attacking midfielders in Europe respectively. However, he will also help out defensively, with his 5.91 ball recoveries per 90 placing him among the best 5%.

Mainoo is also an impressive ball-carrier, but should he be given the responsibility of sitting deeper, his line-breaking passes could really come to fruition. As per Fbref, the teen averages 0.37 through balls per 90, which places him in the top 12%. However, his out-of-possession work is also good enough to allow him to play deeper. Mainoo averages 3.25 tackles and interceptions per 90 and makes 4.53 ball recoveries on average per 90.

Having Mainoo sit deeper, and Eze get forward and look to contribute in the final third could provide a great balance for United in midfield. Whilst it could retract from Mainoo’s obvious attacking quality, it could allow the Palace sensation to explode, as the youngster focuses on those impressive line-breaking passes to help start attacks.

The 25-year-old is clearly well thought of in the media, too. Former Palace manager Alan Smith explained that Eze is “just different”, before pointing out that “he’s exciting” when in full flow. This high praise came after England’s 3-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina last Monday, where Smith also claimed Eze has an “Ian Wright-expectation level” on his shoulders.

Should United manage to bring Eze to Old Trafford this summer, it would represent an impressive piece of business to kick-start what has been a slow summer so far. Despite a lack of clarity over Ten Hag’s future, United fans would be delighted to bring a player of Eze’s quality to the club.

What Man Utd's dream XI could look like after £230m spending spree

Marcus Rashford doesn’t make the best eleven.

1 ByTom Lever Jun 7, 2024

Tottenham have lined up a £30 million replacement for one player this summer, coming after Brentford once targeted his signing for manager Thomas Frank.

Ange pleads for change with Spurs set for busy window

Spurs head coach Ange Postecoglou has suggested that it will take multiple transfer windows to transform the north Londoners into genuine Premier League contenders, and that is apparently set to commence over the next few weeks.

Fabrizio Romano – Tottenham now in advanced talks to sell £20 million star

It could be Spurs’ first summer exit deal out of the way early.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 8, 2024

Tottenham are apparently open to offers for over a dozen players (Paul O'Keefe), with the Lilywhites also looking to back Postecoglou with new additions across many areas of the pitch – including at centre-back, in midfield and further forward (Tom Allnutt).

They've already sealed a deal to extend Timo Werner's loan by a further year, which apparently includes an £8.5 million option to buy the German outright next summer. Postecoglou's side are by no means finished there, however, with Fabrizio Romano claiming Spurs are set for a busy summer window.

"We've got a lot of work to do still on the squad and I don't think we're anywhere near where we want to be. It probably will take a little bit more than three windows to get there, for sure," said Postecoglou on his current Spurs team.

"I certainly don't think we're one or two players away from getting to where I want us to be, nowhere near it. Some of that will be natural evolution. Some of it hopefully means we continue to get the improvement we've had this year from some of our players. If that happens over the next 12 months, then we'll be in a great position.

Son Heung-min

7.30

James Maddison

7.17

Pedro Porro

7.04

Cristian Romero

7.03

Dejan Kulusevski

6.96

"But you've got to remember, a lot of our group are in their first year of the Premier League. A good chunk of them have been ever-presents, we need them to keep improving at the rate they are. We've still got a lot of work to do with the squad. I think we're a long way away from having one or two players away from getting where we want to be."

Tottenham are also looking at new full-back signings this summer. The club have already announced that Ryan Sessegnon will be leaving this summer, upon the expiry of his contract, after deciding not to activate the one-year extension option in his deal.

Tottenham line up Vanderson to replace Emerson Royal

Emerson Royal is also being heavily linked with an exit in the coming weeks, after falling way behind Pedro Porro in Postecoglou's pecking order.

The 25-year-old is currently attracting serious reported interest from AC Milan, so this could well be his final summer at N17, three years after joining from Barcelona. According to GiveMeSport, Tottenham have lined up Monaco defender Vanderson as a replacement for Emerson, and it is believed he'd cost around £30 million.

The 22-year-old bagged three goals and an assist over 20 Ligue 1 starts for Monaco last term, with GMS relaying that Vanderson was in Brentford's sights around three years ago as well.

Manchester United are now preparing a huge bid for a “sensational” midfielder, who is now their priority target, with Ruben Amorim personally keen.

Man Utd readying move for midfielder after Scholes' Mainoo comments

Paul Scholes has recently made it clear he believes Kobbie Mainoo needs to leave his boyhood club, given a lack of game time this season, saying: “For his football career he has to leave Man United. He has lost 18 months of development.

“I hope he goes abroad, it is embarrassing if he goes to Chelsea. They might go and get him, as they are putting together a very good young squad. They keep buying young players and the right good young players.”

Mainoo is still yet to start a Premier League game, although he did impress after coming on as a second-half substitute in the 4-1 rout of Wolverhampton Wanderers last time out.

The Englishman’s most recent display may give Amorim something to think about, but with his future up in the air, the Red Devils have now set their sights on a new central midfielder.

That is according to a report from Spain, which states Man United are now preparing a €100m (£87m) bid for Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton, who has been identified as their ‘absolute priority’ target in the middle of the park.

Amorim is personally keen on signing the England international, with bringing in a new central midfielder deemed essential, given that Casemiro is likely to leave upon the expiration of his contract next summer.

Crystal Palace are reluctant to sell one of their prized assets, but there is now growing interest, with Manchester City, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur also keen.

Signing "sensational" Wharton would soften blow of Mainoo leaving

It is always bitterly disappointing when an academy graduate leaves, especially one as talented as Mainoo, with the 20-year-old playing a major role in United winning the 2024 FA Cup, scoring against Manchester City in the final.

That said, it would be understandable if the youngster wanted to leave, amid interest from reigning Serie A champions Napoli, given that his development is being stifled by a lack of game time, featuring for just 183 minutes in the Premier League this season.

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Man United are now in the race for a “special” player

ByDominic Lund 3 days ago

Signing Wharton could soften the blow of losing Mainoo, however, with the Palace star a similar age to the Stockport-born midfielder at 21, and he has put in some top-quality performances this season.

Most recently, the Englishman chipped in with an assist as Palace won 2-1 away at Fulham, while he has also impressed at international level, making three key passes and maintaining a 91% pass-completion rate in the Three Lions’ 2-0 win against Albania last month.

Having proven himself for club and country, Wharton could be an excellent addition for Man United, and it is exciting news that a bid is being prepared.

Crystal Palace are now in ‘direct talks’ about signing a Bayern Munich star ahead of the looming January transfer window, according to a new report.

Crystal Palace prepare for Man United after excellent start to the season

Palace welcome Man United to Selhurst Park on Sunday afternoon with Oliver Glasner’s side sitting just outside the top four, while the Red Devils languish nearer mid-table following Monday’s shocking home defeat to ten-man Everton.

Glasner’s impressive Palace project continues gathering momentum despite recent bumps.

Positioned just three points behind second-placed Chelsea, the South London club have managed 20 points from their opening 12 Premier League games — their strongest start to a top flight campaign since 1991-92 — all while conceding just nine goals.

Amid the uncertainty surrounding Glasner’s long-term future, not to mention Marc Guehi’s, and the fact they lost star playmaker Eberechi Eze in the summer, Palace’s start comes as a shock to everyone.

They’ve also coped extremely well with the added Conference League fixtures, and responded in excellent fashion after being denied what many perceived as their rightful place in the Europa League.

Allardyce names "arrogant" Crystal Palace man over Arsenal star in Team of the Season

The former Crystal Palace boss has named his Premier League Team of the Season so far.

ByDominic Lund Nov 26, 2025

Following the departures of Eze and another quality forward, Michael Olise, in the last two years — Palace have relied on new stars like in-form striker Jean Philippe-Mateta to deliver the goods instead.

Palace’s unprecedented 19-game unbeaten run in all competitions, which was eventually ended by Everton in October, is also testament to the fine job Glasner has done with limited resources.

Palace 0-0 Bournemouth (Premier League)

Arsenal 2-2 Palace (Premier League)

Palace 3-0 Aston Villa (FA Cup)

Palace 1-1 Nottingham Forest (Premier League)

Tottenham 0-2 Palace (Premier League)

Palace 1-0 Man City (FA Cup)

Palace 4-2 Wolves (Premier League)

Liverpool 1-1 Palace (Premier League)

Crystal Palace (3) 2-2 (2) Liverpool (Community Shield)

Chelsea 0-0 Palace (Premier League)

Palace 1-0 Fredrikstad (Conference League)

Palace 1-1 Nottingham Forest (Premier League)

Fredrikstad 0-0 Palace (Conference League)

Aston Villa 0-3 Palace (Premier League)

Palace 0-0 Sunderland (Premier League)

Palace (4) 1-1 (2) Millwall (Carabao Cup)

West Ham 1-2 Palace (Premier League)

Palace 2-1 Liverpool (Premier League)

Dynamo Kyiv 0-2 Palace (Conference League)

However, if Palace are to convince the Austrian to remain at Selhust Park, chairman Steve Parish will need to showcase ambition.

According to reports, Palace could be active in the January transfer window, and it is believed that Bayern right-back Sacha Boey is a player of real interest.

Crystal Palace hold talks over signing Bayern Munich's Sacha Boey

The former Galatasaray star, who was once a rumoured target for Arsenal, hasn’t found life easy since swapping Turkey for Bavaria in 2024.

Boey has been in and out of Vincent Kompany’s starting elevens, and a January transfer for the 25-year-old is now growing increasingly possible.

That is according to Bayern Insider, who also report that Glasner is in ‘direct talks’ with sporting director Christoph Freund about a potential move for Boey.

Palace are also said to have made a ‘concrete offer’ for the Frenchman, who’s potentially looking to battle his way into Didier Deschamps plans for the 2026 World Cup next year amid stiff competition.

Even though the Bundesliga champions signed him for around £26 million, Bayern are now prepared to sell for half the price at around £13 million — opening the door for Palace to strike a bargain move.

Links to Boey will intensify reports that in-form Eagles right-back Daniel Munoz could leave in the near future, with Chelsea among those considering a swoop for the Colombian who’s arguably been one of Glasner’s top players this season.

Middlesbrough’s search for their new manager looks set to be over, with a significant update emerging regarding the club’s process to replace Rob Edwards.

The exit of Edwards to Wolves has hurt Boro at a key point in the season where they are sitting second in the Championship table and pushing for promotion. He sent a message to the supporters upon leaving for Molineux, wishing the club well.

“This has been one of the toughest decisions of my career. In truth, I wouldn’t have considered leaving Middlesbrough for any other club. Wolves is a special club for me. It’s where I grew as both a player and a coach, it’s still where my family calls home. It has always been my dream to come back and these opportunities do not come around too often.

“Middlesbrough is an incredible club, with a fantastic owner, staff and passionate supporters. I want to thank everyone at the club for the opportunity to lead this squad, it is a great group of players that I genuinely hope and believe will deliver success this season. I could not be prouder of the environment we built together and how it all gelled together so quickly – the players, the staff, and the fans, who drive it all. I sincerely wish everyone at Middlesbrough all the very best for the rest of the season and beyond. Rob.”

It’s now a case of Boro nailing Edwards’ successor at the Riverside Stadium, and it looks as though their new boss may have been found, following a big new claim.

Middlesbrough reach verbal agreement with Kim Hellberg

According to Fotboll Skanalen, Middlesbrough have now reached a verbal agreement with Kim Hellberg over a move to the club, seeing him as the right man to come in for Edwards.

Boro look set to swoop in from under the noses of Championship rivals Swansea City, with the club having a meeting with Hellberg’s representatives in London.

Hellberg may be something of an unknown to some Boro supporters, considering he is only 37 and hasn’t managed in Europe’s top leagues yet, but he looks like an exciting young choice.

IFK Varnamo sporting director Enes Ahmetovic, who worked with the Swede in the past, has said of him: “An incredibly skilled football coach. He spends a huge amount of time on every detail. I’m completely convinced that Hellberg will coach much bigger clubs than IFK Varnamo.”

"Impressive" manager now interested in taking Middlesbrough job after talks

Would he be the right man to replace Rob Edwards?

ByHenry Jackson Nov 16, 2025

The 4-2-3-1-playing Hellberg is something of a gamble, at a time when promotion has to be the aim for Boro, but assuming he is the choice to come in, it will be fascinating to see how he fares.

How Middlesbrough feel about Raphael Wicky as Swiss manager holds Riverside talks

One Manchester United coach has been impressing those inside Carrington and is thought to be heading towards the top level of management.

Romano shares update on Amorim’s Man Utd future

The Red Devils may soon have a big decision to make regarding Ruben Amorim’s position as first-team manager after another woeful start to the Premier League season.

Saturday’s 3-1 defeat away to Brentford has piled the pressure on the Portuguese boss, who is refusing to alter his tactics in search of improved results.

As a result, there have been a number of names that have emerged in recent days as potential replacements for Amorim.

Sir Gareth Southgate has been in direct contact with Sir Jim Ratcliffe over a possible move to Old Trafford, whereas former Barcelona boss Xavi Hernandez is another mooted target and thought to be among the favourites.

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner would also be open to the idea of taking over from Amorim, whereas former Old Trafford coach Kieran McKenna is another manager admired by the Red Devils.

He'd revive Mainoo at Man Utd: INEOS eyeing "incredible" Amorim replacement

Manchester United are considering a move to land a manager who could get Kobbie Mainoo firing at Old Trafford.

1 ByEthan Lamb Sep 30, 2025

Fabrizio Romano recently shared a latest update on Amorim’s Man Utd future, admitting his job is not safe as things stand.

Should a short-term caretaker manager be required in the near future, similar to how Man Utd have operated in the past, then the club may look to a former midfielder.

Darren Fletcher impressing at Carrington as Man Utd U18 manager

At Under 18 level, Man Utd have ex-star Darren Fletcher in charge, and he has been catching the eye at Carrington.

After taking over in the summer, Fletcher, 41, has seen his side win five of their six U18 Premier League games, sitting joint top alongside Manchester City. The Red Devils U18s did fall to their first defeat of the campaign last time out, though, losing to City.

The Daily Mail revealed that Fletcher actually had surgery on a knee injury which he picked up in the recent Man Utd Legends match away to Celtic but returned to work just one day later.

They claim that ‘many observers of United’s academy sides have been blown away by Fletcher’s work ethic’ and that ‘it was simply the latest indication he is destined for the top level of management’.

Fletcher’s twin sons, Jack and Tyler, have followed in his footsteps by signing their first professional contracts at Man Utd in 2024, so who knows, we may see the trio in some capacity at first-team level in the coming years.

Just over two and a half years after stepping down from the Sporting Director role, Fabio Paratici has returned to Tottenham Hotspur to once again oversee operations in North London.

The Italian previously spent two years in the role, before stepping down in April 2023, but looks set to pick up where he left off to help the club in their quest for Premier League glory.

However, this time around, he will be working alongside new boss Thomas Frank, with the Dane needing to strike up a key partnership with the 53-year-old to bring success to the club.

With the transfer window shut until January, the boss won’t get the opportunity to see the fruits of the Italian’s labour for a couple of months, but no doubt work will be ongoing behind the scenes.

Numerous players will likely be lined up by the duo to help strengthen the side after their impressive start to 2025/26, which has seen them lose just once in the first nine outings.

Richarlison

£50m

Cristian Romero

£42m

Destiny Udogie

£15m

Djed Spence

£20m

Yves Bissouma

£25m

Pape Sarr

£18m

Dejan Kulusevski

£25m

Rodrigo Bentancur

£20m

However, this is the dream XI the Sporting Director could build for the Lilywhites over the next couple of months…

1 GK – Guglielmo Vicario

The Italian has been Spurs’ number one over the last couple of years, but not without questions from the fanbase over his ability in the role.

However, he’s managed to keep four clean sheets in 2025/26 to date, with faith needing to put in the 29-year-old to keep his number one shirt.

2 RB – Djed Spence

No Spurs fan would’ve anticipated the rise of the full-back in recent months, with the 25-year-old going from the brink of being sold to being a consistent England international.

His rise could see Pedro Porro tumble down the selection in the months ahead, potentially even being sold should Spence’s form continue.

3 CB – Micky van de Ven

The Dutch international is no ordinary defender, subsequently possessing a huge amount of pace that often gets the backline out of trouble.

His left-footed ability also makes him a rare commodity in the modern game, with the 24-year-old needing to be a regular starter for the foreseeable future.

4 CB- Cristian Romero

The second half of the Spurs centre-back partnership is Cristian Romero, with the duo being an unbreakable partnership – one that helped transform the defensive record this season.

The Argentine international has acquired the captain’s armband in recent weeks, further showcasing the trust shown in him by Frank.

5 LB – Destiny Udogie

Like many players last season, the Italian struggled massively with injuries last season which restricted him from making a huge impact in North London.

However, this season, he’s already featured in eight games across all competitions and has nailed his place down as the club’s first-choice left-back.

6 CDM – Joao Palhinha

The Portuguese international only joined the Lilywhites on loan this summer, but has already wasted no time in impressing – already netting two goals for the club.

His ball-winning ability is another huge positive, with Paratici needing to trigger the buy option in his temporary contract at the end of the campaign.

7 CM – Lucas Bergvall

In years to come, Swedish international Lucas Bergvall may become one of the club’s best-ever purchases after joining for just £8.5m from Djurgarden last summer.

Despite being 19, he’s already racked up over 50 appearances for the club, with the youngster demonstrating talents way beyond his tender years.

8 CM – Xavi Simons

The Dutch international was one of two £50m+ additions during the summer window, but has got off to a slow start in North London – only one assist in his first seven outings.

However, sympathy will need to be handed his way, with boss Frank needing to utilise the youngster in a more central role during his time in the Premier League.

9 RW – Mohammed Kudus

Mohammed Kudus has been a phenomenal addition for Spurs this summer, already hitting the ground running in 2025/26, with one goal and four assists in the league.

At just 25, he has bags of time to develop further, with the Ghanaian likely to play a key role in any future success during Frank’s tenure.

10 ST – Rodrigo Muniz

The centre-forward position has been a tricky one for Spurs since Harry Kane’s departure, but that could be solved with a move for Fulham star Rodrigo Muniz.

The Brazilian was hugely linked with a switch to join the Lilywhites this summer, but a move never materialised, with Paratici needing to revisit a deal in January.

There have been some outstanding clashes between Liverpool and Manchester City down the years in the Premier League and Champions League, but what are the best?

Arguably the greatest rivalry in English football over the past decade or so, the Reds and the Citizens have locked horns in several title races, as well as meeting in big European and FA Cup games.

In Jurgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola, Liverpool and City had two of the world’s best managers for years, and at their peak, the standard of football in clashes between the pair was unmatched.

The best grudge matches in English football

These teams don’t need to share a postcode to hate each other…

ByBarney Lane Nov 27, 2024

Here are our choices for the seven greatest Liverpool and City meetings – forgive us if you think recency bias has played a part, but there have been some classics in the last few years.

7 Liverpool 3-0 Man City, April 2018 Klopp's Reds stun Pep's City in Europe

When City and Liverpool were pitted against one another in the Champions League quarter-finals in 2017/18, it was a tie that made the rest of Europe sit up and take notice.

Guardiola’s side were cruising in the league, but the Reds had shown that they could hurt them earlier in the campaign, and they stunned their opponents here.

In one of the greatest first-half performances seen at Anfield, Mohamed Salah opened the scoring from close range, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain netted from distance and Sadio Mane headed home, all in front of a delirious Kop.

City looked for a vital away goal in the second half, but Liverpool produced a resolute defensive performance, securing a victory of major intent.

Liverpool's 9 best European nights – ranked

Liverpool have had plenty of wonderful European nights over the years.

ByRoss Kilvington Nov 27, 2024 6 Man City 1-2 Liverpool, April 2018 Liverpool progress in nervy Champions League thriller

In that first leg, Klopp’s men produced a stunning performance, but they knew they still had a lot of work to do in the return fixture.

When Gabriel Jesus fired City in front in the second minute, the Etihad erupted, and Liverpool found themselves on the back foot for the entire first half following a blistering display from the hosts.

The Reds managed to keep the score at 1-0, and as the hosts desperately searched for more goals in the second half, Salah sent the travelling fans wild with a dinked finish on the counter-attack.

Roberto Firmino then put the icing on the cake to seal a memorable 5-1 aggregate triumph.

5 Liverpool 3-2 Man City, April 2014 Coutinho scores memorable winner in pulsating title clash

The oldest game in this list has arguably become a forgotten classic due to there being so many special meetings in the years since.

City’s visit to Liverpool in April 2014 was one of the Reds’ biggest games in their Premier League history as they lay on the cusp of title glory. A victory would be huge – and Brendan Rodgers’ side duly delivered.

When Raheem Sterling (then still a Red) and Martin Skrtel scored first-half goals, Anfield was rocking and truly believing the title was finally heading their way again, but a David Silva strike and a Glen Johnson own goal stunned the home crowd.

There was still time for another twist, with Philippe Coutinho firing home his most important Liverpool goal, and while Jordan Henderson was sent off late on, Liverpool clung to their slender lead.

It was City who would have the last laugh, though, as they won their second Premier League title on the final day of the season.

4 Man City 2-2 Liverpool, April 2022 Nothing separates rivals in relentless Premier League clash

City hosted Liverpool in a massive Premier League encounter in April 2022, taking a one-point lead at the top of the table into the match.

Both knew the importance of victory at the Etihad and how damaging defeat would be, and in the end, both Guardiola and Klopp would have been content with a point apiece.

Kevin De Bruyne opened the scoring with a deflected effort to seemingly set City on their way to victory, but Diogo Jota responded before half-time to restore parity. Gabriel Jesus fired the hosts back in front, undoing Liverpool’s hard work.

Mane, playing in his final season at Anfield, stole in behind Kyle Walker to make it 2-2 in clinical fashion, and while both sides huffed and puffed for a winner, the scoreline remained the same. City eventually sealed title glory on the final day following a dramatic comeback at home to Aston Villa.

The best points totals in Premier League history

No room for the Invincibles here…

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 2, 2024 3 Liverpool 2-2 Man City, October 2021 Salah genius lights up Anfield

While the aforementioned 2-2 draw in Manchester in 2021/22 was a great game, this one from six months earlier was even better. In truth, the first half wasn’t exactly the most memorable 45 minutes, but the match came alive after the interval, with the two rivals trading blows spectacularly.

Mane opened the scoring, burying a finish past Ederson after superb work by Salah, but Phil Foden equalised with a ruthless strike of his own.

Salah then scored one of the best goals of his career, weaving past several City challenges before netting from a tight angle with his weaker right foot.

Liverpool desperately tried to cling on for a precious three points, but De Bruyne had other ideas, copying Salah and scoring with his weaker left peg. Rodri superbly denied Fabinho a winner with a crucial block with the Brazilian just about to tap into an empty net, and the scores remained level.

2 Liverpool 4-3 Man City, January 2018 Klopp's Liverpool truly announce themselves to Pep's City

In early 2018, Klopp’s Liverpool showed Guardiola’s City that they were capable not only of matching them, but beating them, as Anfield witnessed a Premier League classic.

Oxlade-Chamberlain opened the scoring with a long-range Kop strike, but a thunderous finish from Leroy Sane ensured that the visitors went in level at the break.

In an unbelievable eight-minute spell in the second half, Liverpool scored three times, with Firmino, Mane and Salah all getting on the scoresheet. The latter was from all of 40 yards out following a poor clearance by Ederson.

In true City fashion, though, they didn’t accept that they were beaten, and late goals from Bernardo Silva and Ilkay Gundogan made for a nervy finale. There was even time for Sergio Aguero to hit the side-netting in the dying seconds.

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Pep Guardiola has endured some tough defeats as Manchester City manager, and is now in the worst run of his career.

ByRoss Kilvington Nov 27, 2024 1 Man City 2-1 Liverpool, January 2019 The most high-quality game in Premier League history?

This may surprise some as a pick for No.1, but it gets the nod because there arguably hasn’t been a Premier League game in history played at a higher level.

This meeting at the Etihad in January 2019 saw both City and Liverpool somewhere close to the absolute peak of their powers.

The Reds went into the match seven points ahead of their adversaries, and in hindsight, their failure to avoid defeat ultimately proved costly in this tense title battle with Guardiola’s side.

Liverpool somehow hadn’t taken the lead in the first half when Mane hit the post and John Stones cleared off the line to deny the on-rushing Salah. Aguero then opened the scoring with a brilliant effort, but Firmino finished off an incredible team move to equalise in the second half.

It was left to Sane to separate the two teams, with the German beating Alisson with a shot that went in off the post. The game would be the only one Liverpool lost in the league.

City won the title on the final day, but the Reds had the consolation of sealing Champions League glory.

This was a match that perfectly summed up the level of football these two great sides can produce against each other.

Sandro Tonali maintained an interesting stance about a move away from Newcastle United earlier this week and now Real Madrid are reportedly preparing a move worth over £40m.

It’s an all too familiar feeling for Newcastle, who were forced to bid farewell to Alexander Isak for a Premier League record in the summer as they scrambled to find his replacement. Now, they potentially face the prospect of losing more key men amid reported interest from around English football in Sven Botman and, of course, Tonali.

It’s the last thing that Eddie Howe needs in the middle of the Magpies’ current domestic form. In the Champions League, his side have been close to perfect, but that couldn’t be further from the case in the Premier League with just three wins in their opening 10 games.

The Newcastle boss admitted in his pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s trip to Brentford that his side must rise up the ranks in the Premier League after a disappointing run.

Missing out on Champions League qualification would only make Newcastle’s attempts to keep hold of key men even tougher, especially if Real Madrid do come calling for Tonali.

Tonali shares exit stance as Real Madrid prepare move

According to reports in Spain, Real Madrid are now preparing a move to sign Tonali from Newcastle worth €50m (£44m) in 2026. Now, whilst the Magpies are unlikely to accept such a low offer for a player that cost them £55m, Madrid’s attempts would certainly spark some interesting questions about the midfielder’s future.

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Despite recent reports revealing that the Italian has already signed a new deal which could keep him at St James’ Park until 2029, Tonali refused to rule out an exit away from the club when questioned about his Newcastle future earlier this week.

Described as “excellent” by Howe, Tonali’s admission will undoubtedly concern those on Tyneside, who saw Isak force his way out of the club in the summer. The last thing they need is another summer-long transfer saga.

PIF's "massive overpay" is quickly becoming Howe's new Almiron

Everton’s ongoing search for a reliable winger has become one of the defining narratives of their pre-season.

Following the departures of Jack Harrison and Jesper Lindstrom, both of whom returned to their parent clubs after loan spells last term, manager David Moyes faces mounting pressure to reinforce his squad’s attacking width.

The club has cast a wide net in pursuit of fresh talent, but so far, the results have been disappointing.

One key target, Lyon’s Malick Fofana, one of Ligue 1’s most exciting young prospects, looks to have turned down a £31.5m move, reportedly preferring a move to a club competing in the Champions League.

That has left Everton to identify alternatives capable of filling the void quickly.

Real Sociedad’s Takefusa Kubo has also been linked with a move to Goodison Park, but the Spanish side’s insistence on his £51.9m relegation release clause makes negotiations difficult.

Meanwhile, Como’s Assane Diao, who has impressed since arriving from Real Betis, is another name in the mix, but competition for his signature is fierce.

One of the most intriguing potential signings is Southampton’s 19-year-old Tyler Dibling, with the Toffees said to have made a £27m bid for his services. That offer was swiftly rejected, with it yet to be seen if a renewed approach will arrive.

Dibling is a player with a promising future and has attracted interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.

Dibling’s natural aggressiveness and ability to influence matches through direct running rather than intricate passing are traits increasingly valuable in modern football.

However, despite these qualities, Dibling remains largely unproven at the highest level.

Everton’s immediate needs may demand more than promise and potential.

Everton looking at Dibling alternative

Enter Jack Grealish. The 29-year-old England international has become a focal point of speculation in the Everton transfer saga.

Left out of Manchester City’s Club World Cup squad last December and struggling to find consistent game time, Grealish is reportedly available for transfer.

As per TEAMtalk, while his hefty £300k per week salary complicates the possibility of a permanent deal, Everton are willing to make a substantial loan bid in order to bring him in. There is said to be optimism on Merseyside that a deal can be struck.

Grealish’s versatility is a major asset. He can operate both as a winger and as an attacking midfielder, providing Moyes with tactical flexibility.

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While last season saw him limited to just 721 minutes, his previous campaigns have demonstrated his class at the highest level.

Why Grealish could be the upgrade Everton need

According to data from FBref, during the 2022/23 treble-winning season, Grealish was a creative powerhouse, boasting 6.27 progressive carries per 90 minutes and averaging 4.55 shot-creating actions.

His pass completion rate was an impressive 84.1%, and he made nearly 34 touches in the attacking third every game.

This kind of influence and creativity is precisely what Everton have been missing.

Pep Guardiola, speaking in February following an FA Cup fourth-round win, encapsulated this spirit perfectly:

“Jack is one of those players that came to fight in these stadiums when the people shout; he is a fighter.”

This, combined with a proven record in the Premier League and international football, marks Grealish out as a safer bet compared to younger, less experienced targets.

Looking deeper into the profiles of Grealish and Dibling reveals the dilemma Everton face between short-term reliability and long-term potential.

Dibling’s statistical profile impresses in terms of physicality and defensive contribution.

He ranks in the 90th percentile or higher for several key metrics: fouls drawn (2.49 per 90), tackles in the midfield third (0.86), and percentage of dribblers tackled (61.5%).

He also ranks highly for shots blocked and successful take-ons, underscoring his combative style and willingness to engage opponents directly.

In an era where many players focus on limited touches and rapid distribution, Dibling’s approach of moving the ball with pace by dribbling is a distinctive asset that could unlock defences.

However, Dibling’s end product at the Premier League level remains limited: just two goals and one assist in a full season of appearances.

Everton’s current squad demands players who can immediately influence the attacking phase, and Dibling still has work to do to reach that level consistently.

Grealish, on the other hand, offers proven creativity and goal involvement at the top tier. With 27 Premier League goals and 39 caps for England, his experience is vast.

His impact when fully fit is undeniable.

His progressive passing and dribbling numbers during his peak season reflect a player capable of dictating play and carving open defences.

Furthermore, Everton’s financial situation means a loan deal for Grealish could provide immediate quality without a long-term financial commitment, balancing ambition and pragmatism.

Ultimately, Everton’s winger conundrum highlights a broader strategic choice: invest in a young, unproven talent with high potential or secure an experienced player who can deliver now.

Given the team’s recent struggles and urgent need for creativity, Grealish appears to be the upgrade Everton need, even if only temporarily.

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