Manchester United’s leadership has already formulated a contingency plan in case they opt to part ways with Ruben Amorim amid the team’s disastrous Premier League campaign.
The Red Devils suffered their 17th league defeat on Sunday, falling 2-0 to West Ham United at Old Trafford, further extending their miserable run in the top flight.
This marks their worst league performance since the infamous 1973/74 relegation season. ..Continue Reading
While their domestic struggles continue, United still has a pathway to Champions League qualification through their Europa League efforts.
Despite guiding the club to a European final, Amorim has remained vocal about the internal challenges facing the team at Old Trafford.
Asked whether his team needs a transfer overhaul, he said: “I don’t know and I don’t want to talk about players. I’m talking about myself and the culture in the club.
When Ruben Amorim took over after Premier League Matchweek 11, Man United were just four points off the top four ???? pic.twitter.com/luyELQmUV4
“The culture in the team. I have that feeling: we need to change that. We need to be really strong in the summer and to be brave because we will not have a next season like this.
“If we start like this, if the feeling is still here, we should give space [my job] to different persons.”
Amorim’s remarks have fueled speculation about another managerial change at Old Trafford following Erik ten Hag’s dismissal earlier this season.
Reports suggest that if United’s poor form persists, the club may begin exploring other options.
According to The Athletic, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Sir Dave Brailsford, and Omar Berrada are reluctant to make another managerial switch so soon after Amorim’s arrival.
However, if performances fail to improve, the Portuguese coach could face serious uncertainty heading into next season.
United’s leadership reportedly views the current situation as unacceptable and is determined not to let it drag into the next campaign.
Despite this, Amorim’s position appears safe for the remainder of the season, with the upcoming transfer window offering an opportunity to reshape the squad to better suit his vision.
Securing the Europa League title—and with it, Champions League qualification—would strengthen his standing at the club and grant him a larger budget for summer signings.
The loss sees United sitting in 16th place, positioned just ahead of Europa League final opponents Tottenham.
While their league campaign was effectively over weeks ago, the biggest concern for United fans is the injury suffered by Leny Yoro. ..Continue Reading
The young defender was forced off the pitch for Harry Maguire after collapsing to the ground without any apparent contact, often a worrying sign.
Former United player and MUTV pundit Wes Brown has provided his thoughts on Yoro’s injury, speculating on the severity based on the Frenchman’s reaction after being substituted.
On a positive note, Yoro was able to walk off the field and into the tunnel unassisted, offering some hope for a less serious issue.
However, non-contact injuries tend to be more problematic than those caused by physical challenges, and Yoro has a history of foot problems.
There has been no official statement from the club regarding his condition since the game has just concluded, but Brown has made an early prediction on his recovery timeline, including whether he’ll be fit for the Europa League final.
Brown, speaking on MUTV, said: “Putting his shirt in his mouth and covering his eyes for 10 minutes means he’s thinking ahead.
He might miss the final even if it’s not a big injury. Let’s hope it’s not but if he is injured he’d be a big miss. He’s been a great player and did better and better.”
Yoro appeared completely dejected as he made his way off the pitch, and as Brown noted, it would be surprising to see him included in the squad for the final.
While his injury is set to dominate the headlines, it was merely the start of what could have been a disastrous night for Manchester United.
Amorim took a major gamble by fielding a near full-strength squad, a risky move given it came less than three days after their Europa League clash.
Rasmus Hojlund also faced a scare with a shoulder issue, though he managed to shake it off—but it was another example of unnecessary risk-taking from the United boss.
Adding to the frustration, the team’s performance was noticeably poorer compared to their previous Premier League outings, where young players were given opportunities against Wolves and Brentford.
It’s fair to assume that Amorim has taken this lesson to heart, and his lineup against Chelsea on Friday night should reflect that adjustment.
However, the damage to Yoro has already been done, and ultimately, it was a costly oversight on Amorim’s part.
During an in-depth interview with France Football, the Liverpool star reflected on his illustrious career at Anfield and shared insights into a past ‘tension’ with a former teammate. ..Continue Reading
As one of the most renowned left-footed players in modern football, Salah was asked to pick the greatest left-footed player in history.
He opted for Premier League icon Ryan Giggs over James Rodriguez and Riyad Mahrez, citing Giggs’ impressive longevity.
When comparing further attacking talents, Salah chose Angel Di Maria—who played for Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain—over Giggs, along with former Real Madrid playmakers Gareth Bale and Mesut Ozil, as well as Dutch winger Arjen Robben.
The conversation then shifted to Antoine Griezmann, with Salah preferring the Atletico Madrid forward over Di Maria.
He extended that preference to Griezmann over Barcelona legend Hristo Stoichkov before ultimately selecting Rivaldo, Brazil’s 2002 World Cup-winning star.
Faced with a choice between Rivaldo and Maradona, Salah sided with the late Argentine icon. That led to the ultimate question—Maradona or Messi? Without hesitation, Salah picked the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
In a lighthearted finale, Salah was asked to compare Messi to himself, and he amusingly conceded that he would choose the Barcelona legend.
Salah has enjoyed a phenomenal season, scoring 33 goals in all competitions while playing a crucial role in Liverpool’s Premier League triumph.
He also expressed his ambition to win the Ballon d’Or before retiring, a goal that remains firmly in his sights.
“It’s not in my hands, but obviously, one day I would like to win the Ballon d’Or for my people,” he said. “When you come from a village in Egypt, as a child, it’s difficult to dream of the Ballon d’Or.
“It was when I came to Liverpool that I started to think that, maybe, one day… But if I don’t win it, my career will still be successful”
Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has reflected on his three most memorable matches from his two spells in charge at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Speaking ahead of Real Madrid’s highly anticipated LaLiga clash against Barcelona on Sunday, Ancelotti shared his thoughts during a pre-match press conference. ..Continue Reading
The Italian tactician is widely expected to depart Los Blancos at the end of the season, marking the conclusion of his latest tenure with the club.
Ancelotti is set to take over as Brazil’s national team coach, while Xabi Alonso has emerged as a strong candidate to succeed him at Madrid.
Speaking about the most unforgettable matches at Madrid, Ancelotti said (via Madrid Xtra): “The three most unforgettable games at Real Madrid? Lisbon 2014, Paris 2022, London 2024. It’s not difficult.”
Ancelotti is often hailed as the greatest manager in UEFA Champions League history, having amassed an unprecedented five titles.
The 65-year-old has secured two of these trophies with AC Milan and three with Real Madrid, solidifying his legacy as a master of European football.
Interestingly, the three matches he highlighted as his most unforgettable moments all come from Champions League finals during his time at Madrid.
Ancelotti guided Los Blancos to victory against Atletico Madrid in 2014, Liverpool in 2022, and Borussia Dortmund in 2024, cementing his status as one of football’s most accomplished tacticians.
The Swedish forward has been one of the standout performers in Europe this season, tallying an impressive 52 goals and 12 assists in 49 appearances during the 2024/25 campaign. ..Continue Reading
His exceptional form has caught the attention of elite clubs, with Manchester United, Arsenal, and Paris Saint-Germain all reportedly keen on securing his services.
Gyokeres, 26, is under contract with Sporting until June 2026, but he could be available for a transfer fee ranging between £55 million and £70 million.
According to The Telegraph, Arsenal’s newly appointed sporting director Andrea Berta previously attempted to bring Gyokeres to Atletico Madrid and sees him as a more viable target compared to Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, whom the Magpies have insisted is not available for transfer. The report also suggests that Sporting CP might accept an offer lower than Gyokeres’ release clause, which is estimated to be between £63.5 million and £72 million.
The striker’s final decision is expected to depend on whether Arsenal and Manchester United secure Champions League qualification, with Arsenal appearing likely to qualify, while United could earn their place by winning the Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur on May 21.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has already hinted at a major summer overhaul following Berta’s appointment in April, setting the stage for high-profile signings in the coming months.
“It’s going to be a big one [summer] and we are very excited about it,” said Arteta in a press conference.
“When you are going to go again, we want to increase the depth of the squad and the quality and the skills that we need to go to the next step.
“Every summer is big because it is an opportunity, and especially because of the number of players we have in the squad right now, that is necessary.
“But it’s a big summer for many things because first of all, we have to maintain the good foundations that we have and then obviously, how can we improve and evolve the team?”
BBC Sport also reports that Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi is expected to join Arsenal, and they could also pursue a wide player with a move for Jamie Gittens mooted as a result of the Englishman’s impressive form in Germany.
Marcus Rashford has reportedly approached a top European club amid speculation that he will leave Manchester United this summer.
Since Ruben Amorim took charge at United in November, signs have pointed to Rashford’s time at his boyhood club nearing its conclusion. ..Continue Reading
That impression was all but confirmed a month later when the forward admitted in an interview with journalist Henry Winter that he was considering a new challenge away from Old Trafford.
Now, Rashford seems to have settled on his desired destination ahead of the summer transfer window, and he is even prepared to accept a wage cut to make the move happen.
During the winter transfer window, he was linked with several major European clubs but ultimately opted for a loan spell at Aston Villa until the end of the season.
Despite making a strong impression at Villa Park, a permanent transfer to the Midlands club appears unlikely, with Rashford instead hoping to secure a switch to Barcelona.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Rashford has enlisted the help of experienced football agent Pini Zahavi to facilitate his potential move to the Spanish giants, given Zahavi’s close ties to the club.
Zahavi reportedly maintains a solid relationship with Barcelona president Joan Laporta and also manages both Hansi Flick and Robert Lewandowski.
Barcelona previously expressed interest in a loan deal for Rashford during the winter window, and the player believes Zahavi could act as the key intermediary in securing the transfer this summer.
Reports suggest that a loan deal would be Barcelona’s preferred approach, given Rashford’s existing contract with United, which runs until 2028. However, the winger is willing to lower his wages to smoothen negotiations.
Discussions between Rashford’s camp and Barcelona are said to be in the early stages, with a final decision expected after the season concludes.
Arsenal over United, as both clubs seek to strengthen their attacking options this summer.
However, Gyokeres has not entirely ruled out reuniting with his former coach, offering Amorim a glimmer of hope as United navigate a challenging season.
Both Premier League giants are set to be active in the striker market, with Gyokeres among several high-profile names expected to secure moves, alongside Victor Osimhen and Liam Delap.
Despite his strong bond with Amorim, reports indicate that Arsenal currently leads the race for his signature.
According to The Telegraph, Arsenal’s newly appointed sporting director Andrea Berta has identified Gyokeres as a top priority in their summer transfer plans.
Berta had previously attempted to bring the 26-year-old to Atletico Madrid during his tenure with the La Liga club, and his interest remains strong.
Gyokeres’ appeal is clear, having delivered an extraordinary return of 52 goals in 48 appearances for Sporting across all competitions this season.
His prolific form builds upon an impressive debut season, following his move to Lisbon from Coventry City in 2023 under Amorim’s guidance.
While Arsenal is currently leading the pursuit, Gyokeres remains open to a potential switch to Old Trafford—on one condition.
Reports suggest he has informed Amorim that he would consider joining United if they secure a Champions League spot for next season.
United’s domestic struggles have left them languishing in 15th place with three games remaining, but they still have a pathway to European qualification.
The Red Devils hold a commanding 3-0 advantage over Athletic Club heading into Thursday’s Europa League semi-final second leg at Old Trafford.
Victory would set up a final clash against either Tottenham Hotspur or Bodo/Glimt in Bilbao on May 21, offering United one last chance to book their place in next season’s Champions League.
Inter Milan secured a thrilling 7-6 aggregate victory over Barcelona to book their spot in the final.
Barcelona appeared poised to reach the grand stage at the Allianz Arena after overturning a two-goal deficit to lead 3-2 in the closing minutes. ..Continue Reading
However, Inter struck a late equalizer in normal time before sealing the win in extra time, in what will be remembered as one of the most dramatic ties in Champions League history.
Either Paris Saint-Germain or Arsenal will face Inter in the final, with the two teams meeting in Paris for their decisive second leg on Wednesday.
PSG holds a narrow 1-0 advantage following their hard-fought win at the Emirates Stadium last week.
While many pundits believe Arsenal has a real chance of mounting a comeback in Paris, Salah has cautioned that they will once again be facing the ‘best team in Europe’ in PSG.
The French champions eliminated Aston Villa and Premier League winners Liverpool on their way to the semi-finals, also thrashing Manchester City during the league phase.
Luis Enrique’s side dominated Liverpool at home but still arrived at Anfield trailing by a goal after Harvey Elliott’s late strike for the Reds.
Despite the setback, PSG responded with a crucial 1-0 away win before triumphing in the penalty shootout to keep their hopes alive of lifting their first-ever Champions League title.
‘I have to be very honest, PSG were playing a very good game in the first leg,’ Salah told French outlet L’Equipe.
‘We were so lucky that Alisson had his best game in the club’s history probably. Then they came to Anfield. We were so unlucky because we hit the post two to three times.
‘That game was honestly 50/50 who deserved it more. No one could say. We played a very good second half. They played a very good first leg. Nobody here would say they deserved it 100 per cent.
‘It was their day and I shook their hands and said to their players after “congratulations, go and win” and that’s it. We faced the best team in Europe in that tie.’
Barcelona boss Hansi Flick, meanwhile, expressed his pride at his team after their semi-final defeat to Inter Milan.
‘I’m very disappointed that we’re out – but I’m not disappointed about the performance of my team. They tried everything,’ he said.
‘We’re out, but next year we’ll start again and we’ll make our fans, the club and everyone around us happy.
‘They [Inter] are a really good team, a strong team who defend well but also they have a really good striker.
‘In the second half we were really good. We gave everything but in the end it was like that and that’s what made me a bit sad.’
The 26-year-old has been at the center of widespread media and fan discussions in recent weeks, culminating in his announcement on Sunday that he will not extend his contract with Liverpool. His current deal runs out at the end of June 2025.
Real Madrid appears to be his next destination, with The Athletic reporting on Monday that the right-back is set to join the Spanish giants as a free agent. Sources in Spain suggest a six-year contract is close to being finalized. ..Continue Reading
In his statement, Alexander-Arnold explained that stepping outside his “comfort zone” was a key factor in his decision to leave the reigning Premier League champions.
Over the past three decades, several high-profile players—including Eden Hazard, Steven McManaman, Gareth Bale, and Michael Owen—have swapped English football for a fresh challenge in Madrid. However, Ronaldo’s 2009 move from Manchester United to Los Blancos remains the most iconic switch.
Despite Alexander-Arnold seemingly set to follow a similar path, he once made his stance clear in an interview with Oh My Goal in 2019, stating that Messi is “the best player of all time.”
In another interview with the Mirror back in 2024, Alexander-Arnold doubled down on his choice, he explained: “It has to be Messi for me, the best player I’ve played, for me the best player that’s ever played the game.”
The right-back added: “I never watched [Diego] Maradona, so I don’t know… to imagine anyone better than what I’ve been able to see… my brain doesn’t comprehend it, there’s no way anyone can be better.”
He continued: “There’s just a different feeling playing against him than I’ve ever felt with anyone else.
“You’re always on red alert when the ball’s near him, I think it’s very rare for a player to have that kind of feeling, to put that feeling into other players. So for that reason, I have to say him.
“For me, I think in many, many aspects of the game, he’s probably the best at any given moment. He can almost do what he wants on a football pitch, so yeah, for that reason, he’s the best.”
Despite admitting that Messi is the greatest of all time, Alexander-Arnold still has huge respect for Ronaldo, and so he should given the fact that the Portuguese is Real’s highest-ever goalscorer and greatest player.
“With Ronaldo being one of the greats, probably one of the best players ever, it’s going to be an honour to hopefully play against him,” Alexander-Arnold said ahead of the 2018 Champions League final, which Liverpool lost 3-1 against Madrid.
“You have to admit he’s [Cristiano Ronaldo] an unbelievable player and he’s done exceptional things in the game,” he added. “The numbers that he does season in, season out are absolutely unbelievable.
“I know a lot about him and the likes of Messi because I watched them on YouTube growing up. You always watch those type of players. But you’ve just got to focus on the game and, if he’s a direct opponent, you have to see what the strengths and weaknesses are and use them to your advantage.”
After enduring a three-month goal drought, the English forward rediscovered his form, expressing how motivated he was to silence his critics. ..Continue Reading
The 22-year-old now has his sights set on becoming Chelsea’s all-time leading Premier League goalscorer. His tally of 37 top-flight goals has propelled him into 10th place in the club’s history, drawing level with Brazilian winger Willian.
Despite joining the Blues from Manchester City just two summers ago, Palmer continues to show why Pep Guardiola’s decision to sell him may have been a misjudgment.
With his career still in its early stages, supporters will hope he remains a prolific force for years to come, having signed a nine-year contract in August 2024 that could keep him at Stamford Bridge until 2033.
Palmer’s milestone has come in just 67 appearances, boasting the best minutes-per-goal ratio of any player in Chelsea’s top 10, averaging a goal every 150 minutes.
For perspective, former striker Nicolas Anelka took 125 matches to reach 68 goals, and Palmer is poised to surpass the Frenchman soon.
His £42.5m signing in the summer of 2023 generated plenty of excitement, but few anticipated he would become such a prolific scorer.
Under Mauricio Pochettino, he quickly took on a talismanic role for Chelsea, netting 22 goals in 34 league matches during the 2023-24 campaign.
Palmer struggled to break into Guardiola’s first team at Manchester City and did not score a single Premier League goal at the Etihad.
His second season in London has been a mix of ups and downs, with less reliance on him under Enzo Maresca’s management.
Palmer started the campaign in excellent form, striking 14 times in 21 appearances, but his momentum slowed after mid-January, leading to a frustrating three-month goal drought.
However, his performance against Liverpool signaled his return to form, with his penalty taking his total to 15 goals in 34 games.
Chelsea’s official media account shared the club’s all-time Premier League top scorers list, offering an intriguing insight into their history.
The rankings emphasized Frank Lampard’s remarkable scoring ability as a midfielder, while also highlighting Chelsea’s shortage of consistent goal-scorers—evidenced by John Terry occupying eighth place.
Rival fans were quick to mock the achievement, pointing to examples of past players from their own clubs who would have comfortably made Chelsea’s top 10.
One supporter highlighted how low Palmer would feature in Arsenal’s: “37 Goals at Arsenal will have you at Number 62 behind (Eddie Nketiah).”
Another similarly pointed out: “Theo Walcott 108 is the 10th all-time PL goal scorer at Arsenal, he has more goals than (Didier) Drogba that is second on this list.”
One fan poked fun at Chelsea: “37 goals gets you into the top 10 of a supposed big club’s all-time top scorers list.”
As did another: “Top 10 in the all-time scorers after two seasons is the most tinpot thing I’ve ever seen.”
Another said: “£7.9 billion spent on strikers and John Terry’s in our top 10.”
While others saw reasons to be optimistic regarding the legacy Palmer can achieve at the club. One fan wrote: “He’s going to retire as a legend here.”
Another said: “Cole is just 2 seasons in at Chelsea and he’s already in this conversation.”
Chelsea are in the race for Champions League qualification, and the win against Liverpool has them sitting fifth with 63 points, three above Nottingham Forest, who face Crystal Palace on Monday.