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  • Ajax vs Twente preview, team news, tickets, and prediction

    Ajax vs Twente preview, team news, tickets, and prediction

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    Ajax and FC Twente will clash at Johan Cruijff ArenA for this match day 34 encounter in the 2024-25 Eredivisie League campaign. It is the final game of the season.

    As of the time of writing, Ajax have garnered 74 points from 31 games and they sit top of the Eredivisie standings with four points ahead of second-placed PSV. Twente are 5th on the log with 51 points from 31 matches.

    Ajax, who last won the league title in 2022, wanted a return to the top of Dutch football, and they went ahead to appoint one of the promising coaches in world football – Francesco Farioli. The Italian signed a three-year deal, and he was quite vocal about bringing the club back to where it belongs during his unveiling.

    The Italian manager is on the verge of doing that with three games to go until the end of the season. Ajax are currently top with a four-point lead, and they could even wrap up the league title with more results or if other results go their way.

    Based on where they finished last season, Ajax started their season early with the UEFA Europa League qualifiers, knocking out Vojvodina, Panathinaikos, and Jagiellonia to book their spot in the new group stage format of the second-tier European competition.

    In the Eredivisie, Ajax beat Heerenveen 1-0 to get the season underway, but they lost 2-1 to NAC Breda in their second league game of the season. Farioli’s men then thumped Sittard 5-0 to return to winning ways. Taylor Kenneth, Bertrand Traore, Youri Baas, Devyne Rensch, and Chuba Akpom scored in the rout. On the road, De Godenzonen failed to win as they drew 1-1 with Go Ahead Eagles. Ajax went on to win nine of the next ten games in all competitions to continue their strong start to the season.

    However, a run of mixed results at the end of 2024 set them back a bit, but they got back on track in the new year. In the Europa League, they were knocked out in the round of 16 stage by Frankfurt. Back in the league, Ajax have not lost at home. It goes to show how strong they have been there this campaign. Ajax should have wrapped up the league title weeks back, but they lost 4-0 to Utrecht and drew 1-1 with Sparta Rotterdam.

    After that home draw, striker Wout Weghorst said it was an important point regardless. “We regained control in the second half,” Weghorst also told ESPN. “But the ball just wouldn’t go in. Two minutes before the end, it even went in at the other end. Fortunately, we managed to equalise just after. It’s an important point. We kept going after conceding. We showed we have the mentality to come back.”

    As for Twente, they finished third in the league last season and got a play-off spot in the UEFA Champions League. They fell short against German side RB Leipzig to drop to the Europa League. De Tukkers started the domestic season with a 2-1 win over NEC on the road. Alec Van Hoorenbeeck and Sam Lammers scored in the win. That match day one result was followed by a stalemate with Sparta. Another draw against Zwolle on match day three, and a first loss of the league campaign at the hands of Utrecht, plus two consecutive wins over Heerenveen and Almere City, meant Twente continued their fine start to the domestic season. They defeated NAC Breda to finish the month of September on a high note.

    In the Europa League, they held Manchester United to a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford. Sam Lammers cancelled out Christian Eriksen’s opener for the Premier League side. On match day two, they also drew with Turkish side Fenerbahce before a home loss to Lazio. De Tukkers went ahead to draw their fourth European game against Nice.

    Despite failing to win any of their first four games, Twente won the final two to book their spot in the knockout playoffs phase, where they were bundled out by semifinalists Bodo Glimt. At the moment, Twente have just one win in their past six games in the Eredivisie. Ajax have been the team to beat in the Dutch top flight this season, and with some wins or if other results go their way, the title will be theirs.

    On the other hand, Twente are making a push for a place in Europe once again. The UEFA Champions spot looks done and dusted, so they will make do with either the UEFA Europa League or the UEFA Conference League for next season. In terms of the head-to-head, from the past 47 games played between Ajax and Twente since 2004, Ajax have won 22 games, Twente have won 12 games, and the remaining 13 games have been stalemates.

    Match Tickets

    The epic match at Johan Cruijff Arena in Amsterdam will kick off on Sunday, 18th May 2025, at 13:30 GMT. The 55,885-capacity stadium will host this Dutch League match between Ajax and Twente.

    Getting Ajax v Twente tickets could take a lot of work given the standard of this game. Hence, you are advised to search ticket reselling sites should they be expectedly sold out on each club’s channels.

    Team News

    Line Up

    Manager Francesco Farioli is fond of rotating his squad, and some changes might be made to the last team that started against Sparta. Youri Baas and Branco van den Boomen are the only players currently injured, while Jordan Henderson should return from his suspension for this game.

    Ajax possible XI: Matheus; Gaaei, Sutalo, Rugani, Hato; Berghuis, Klaassen, Taylor; Traore, Brobbey, Edvardsen.

    For Twente, Ricky van Wolfswinkel has impressed since his return from an injury layoff and could be given a start in this final league game of the season. Twente could still be without the services of Sam Lammers (shoulder) and Taylor Booth (muscle), while Gerald Alders is listed as a minor doubt.

    Twente possible XI: Unnerstall; Van Rooij, Van Hoorenbeeck, Lagerbielke, Kuipers; Vlap, Sadílek; Ltaief, Steijn, Unuvar, Van Wolfswinkel

    Prediction

    Ajax have been excellent in the Eredivisie this season, and they are going to be champions in a matter of days. They also have a solid form at home this season, and Twente might not be able to hinder them from picking up another win. By the way, get your Ajax tickets early enough to catch the game.

    On the other hand, Twente have only won once against Ajax since 2009, and they have just a win in their past six games at the time of writing. In addition, they have just one win on the road in their last four.

    Ajax 2-1 FC Twente

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  • Dean Huijsen responds to Chelsea links

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    Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen is keeping tight-lipped over his future amid links to the likes of CHELSEA, Liverpool and Arsenal ahead of the summer transfer window.

    Huijsen, 19, has quickly established himself as a regular at the heart of Andoni Iraola’s defence following a £13million move from Juventus to the Vitality Stadium in the summer transfer window.

    The imposing 6 ft 5 in centre-half has caught the eye with a string of assured defensive displays while providing a strong aerial presence at the other end of the pitch, and According to Spanish publication AS, Huijsen’s performances have not gone unnoticed amongst Europe’s elite, with Madrid keeping close tabs on the Spain Under-21 international this season.

    The report adds that CHELSEA, Arsenal and Liverpool are providing competition for Huijsen and have started to ‘position themselves with enquiries about his contract situation’, but the young defender is keeping very quiet about a potential move at the end of the season, Speaking to AS after the Cherries win over Arsenal, he said: “The future? I’m having a good time and not thinking about it…

    “I don’t know… I’m a ‘chill’ guy, like I do when I celebrate [laughs]. I don’t think about it much.

    “Every day I go to training, to play in the games, and I’m happy. I’m having a good time and I’m not thinking about that. You are the ones to judge that; I’m not thinking about that, I’m focused on Bournemouth.

    “We’re having a very good season. We’ve already broken the points record and we want to get as many points as possible this season.”

    IcFootballnews View…

    Huijsen has kind of potential that could make him a big-time player for one of the big footballing clubs, but only if he makes the right move at the right time, he is still very young and has alot of developing to do.

    If he is ready to make that step up, then there are clubs interested, but maybe the bets thing for the lad to do is stay for a few seasons and then make the move up?

    MORE BIG CHELSEA NEWS AND GOSSIP

    Top Read:  Midfielder releases first message in interview after late Chelsea January deal move!

    Most Read: 16-goal megastar should have been signed by Chelsea in January  Blues board told

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  • Man United weighing up £35m move for Franco Mastantuono

    Man United weighing up £35m move for Franco Mastantuono

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    Manchester United are reportedly preparing to step up their pursuit of River Plate’s 17-year-old sensation Franco Mastantuono, as they look to inject fresh talent into their squad.

    According to Give Me Sport, the Red Devils are growing increasingly keen on the Argentine starlet, who has a £35 million release clause in his contract. Mastantuono is widely regarded as one of South America’s hottest prospects and could be a transformative signing for United’s long-term future.

    A Rising Star with Huge Potential

    Technically gifted and composed beyond his years, Mastantuono has already drawn attention from top European clubs. Manchester United’s interest highlights their ongoing strategy to build a core of young, high-ceiling talents. If nurtured correctly, the teenage midfielder could evolve into a world-class playmaker capable of adding flair and creativity to United’s final third.

    A move to the Premier League might be the perfect environment for his development. United have a solid track record of promoting young talents, and Mastantuono could thrive under the right guidance at Old Trafford.

    United Must Act Fast

    With multiple clubs monitoring his situation, United would be wise to act swiftly before a bidding war drives the price higher. For a club in need of attacking spark, investing in a player of Mastantuono’s calibre could prove to be a bargain in hindsight.

    Only time will tell if Manchester United can seal the deal—but landing the Argentine prodigy could be a game-changer for the club’s future.

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  • Mohamed Salah names the ‘best team in the Champions League’ this season

    Mohamed Salah names the ‘best team in the Champions League’ this season

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    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

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  • Everton slap £70 million price tag on Jarrad Branthwaite to end Manchester United’s chances of signing him – Man United News And Transfer News

    Everton slap £70 million price tag on Jarrad Branthwaite to end Manchester United’s chances of signing him – Man United News And Transfer News

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    Manchester United currently have three centre-backs out injured, while two are set to leave in the summer, and Ruben Amorim could do with help in the defensive department once the transfer window opens.

    Lisandro Martinez is out till next year with an ACL injury. Even upon his return, the World Cup winner could be set for a position change.

    Matthijs de Ligt suffered an injury against Brentford and will miss at least the next two games. Ayden Heaven is also sidelined.

    Add Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof‘s impending departures, and all Amorim has are Leny Yoro, an ageing Harry Maguire and an unfit Luke Shaw. Young Tyler Fredricson has impressed but he needs to bulk up.

    Defence needs help

    Jarrad Branthwaite has been a long-term target for INEOS, who failed with two bids for the Englishman last summer.

    Talks of a move have refused to die down amid the 22-year-old’s imperious form for the Toffees this season.

    Amid another potential summer approach, Teamtalk have suggested that David Moyes’ return has changed the Merseyside outfit’s outlook with the owners set to back the former United boss in the market.

    And Everton will not allow the England international to leave for anything less than £70 million and they will not change their valuation come what may.

    Everton not budging

    “Everton are point-blank refusing to part with Jarrad Branthwaite for anything less than their valuation this summer no matter which side wants to sign him, sources have revealed to TEAMtalk, leaving Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s big transfer dream facing capitulation.

    “Sources have confirmed the Toffees have slapped a £70 million (€82.6m, $93.7m) minimum price tag on the defender – and they’re not budging.”

    Lots of clubs were interested in Branthwaite with the centre-back helping the Toffees keep nine clean sheets. But it seems he could be staying put for now.

    United have other positions in greater need of reinforcements and it is unlikely INEOS will sanction such an extensive outlay on a centre-back this summer.

    Feature image Alex Livesey via Getty Images

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  • Alexander-Arnold settled the Messi vs Ronaldo debate with controversial answer

    Alexander-Arnold settled the Messi vs Ronaldo debate with controversial answer

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    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

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  • Report – Everton want Nicolas Pepe

    Report – Everton want Nicolas Pepe

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    Everton are reportedly in the race to sign Villarreal winger Nicolas Pepe this summer, with competition heating up from Wolverhampton Wanderers and clubs in the Saudi Pro League.

    Toffees Eye Reinforcement as Pepe Rebuilds His Career

    According to Foot Mercato, the Toffees are keen on bolstering their attacking options and have identified 29-year-old Ivory Coast international Nicolas Pepe as a target. After a turbulent spell at Arsenal, Pepe has found his feet again with Villarreal, registering two goals and four assists in 23 La Liga appearances this season. His standout performance against Osasuna has reignited interest from several clubs.

    Pepe, once a £72 million signing for Arsenal, never quite lived up to expectations in North London. Following a season in Turkey with Trabzonspor, the French-born winger made a free switch to Villarreal, where he has shown glimpses of his old form from his LOSC Lille days.

    Premier League Return: A Fresh Start at Everton?

    Everton’s interest in Pepe is no surprise, especially with uncertainty looming over loan stars Jack Harrison and Jesper Lindstrom. The club needs reliable depth out wide, and Pepe, with his Premier League experience, could offer just that.

    However, Everton aren’t alone in their pursuit. Wolves and several Saudi clubs are also monitoring Pepe’s situation, setting up a potential summer transfer tussle. With his top-flight experience and renewed form, a return to the Premier League could be the perfect opportunity for Pepe to reignite his career.

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  • Liam Delap could be great Chelsea signing

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    CHELSEA have been linked with a potential move for Ipswich star Liam Delap, and according to reporter Iomie Stanley, the forward has the potential to be one of the best strikers in the Premier League.

    Delap has had a decent season for Ipswich in the Premier League this season despite the clubs relegation, and his performances have been linked with a switch to Liverpool and Chelsea.

    Now, amid all the speculation and rumours, The existence of a release clause that could cost Chelsea or Liverpool £30 million, Stanley says he could be a great signing for the big clubs as he has the potential to be a top Premier League star.

    Stanley told icfootballnews: ‘Chelsea’s pursuit of young talent has been a cornerstone of their transfer strategy in recent years, with the club investing heavily in players who possess both potential and immediate value.

    ‘Delap could be a shrewd acquisition for Chelsea, particularly as they look to solve their long-term issues in the center-forward role.

    ‘At Ipswich Town, Delap has showcased his predatory instincts in front of goal. His movement in the box, combined with his ability to find space and finish clinically, makes him a standout among young strikers. Delap’s record at youth levels and his continued improvement in professional football demonstrate that he is not only a promising talent but also a consistent goal threat.

    ‘Chelsea, who have struggled to find a dependable striker since the departure of Diego Costa, could benefit from adding a player with Delap’s goal-scoring pedigree to their ranks.

    ‘Standing tall and strong, Delap’s physicality is one of his defining attributes. This strength allows him to hold up play effectively, shrug off defenders, and provide a focal point for his team’s attack.

    ‘The Premier League’s physical nature demands forwards who can withstand challenges, and Delap’s natural physique makes him well-suited to the rigors of top-flight football.

    ‘He could complement CHELSEA’s dynamic wide players and creative midfielders by offering a robust presence in the penalty area.

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  • Man United legend Wayne Rooney hits out at Ruben Amorim over Bruno Fernandes’ role – Man United News And Transfer News

    Man United legend Wayne Rooney hits out at Ruben Amorim over Bruno Fernandes’ role – Man United News And Transfer News

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    Manchester United’s record goalscorer Wayne Rooney has questioned Ruben Amorim’s use of Bruno Fernandes.

    Despite United’s struggles in the Premier League, Fernandes has been outstanding this season – arguably playing the best football of his career – and has clearly adapted well to life under Amorim.

    Fernandes has notched an impressive 19 goals and 18 assists in 52 appearances across all competitions.

    Amorim has primarily utilised the skipper in a midfield pivot, but he has also impressed when deployed in one of the two No. 10 roles.

    When operating in a deeper role, Fernandes has been instrumental in helping United break the lines and progress up the pitch, while in the No. 10 position, he’s consistently showcased his creativity and vision in the final third.

    It remains to be seen in which position his long-term future lies but Rooney feels the Portugal international is less effective when playing deeper.

    Speaking on The Overlap, Rooney explained that it isn’t right that defensive-minded players are sometimes allowed to be more involved in attacking play than Fernandes.

    “The game now is very much positional. For instance, at United now, the creative players are coming back and the wingbacks are going higher.”

    “The attacking players are lower than the defensive players. If you have good attacking players, you want them [higher up the pitch].”

    “Like I think Bruno has done really well in midfield, but I want to see Bruno higher, in and around the penalty area where he can shoot and create.”

    Rooney added, “You’re ending up with so many defenders up the pitch and your midfield players who are good attacking players filling in at fullback spots and stuff. In some ways it’s OK if you’ve got the personnel.”

    “But every team is doing it now and I think it’s a little bit too much.”

    United are back in action on Thursday when they host Athletic Club in the return leg of their Europa League semi-final tie.

    Featured image Juan Manuel Serrano Arce via Getty Images

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  • Unbelievable Cole Palmer stat emerges & goes viral after Chelsea beat Liverpool

    Unbelievable Cole Palmer stat emerges & goes viral after Chelsea beat Liverpool

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    After enduring a three-month goal drought, the English forward rediscovered his form, expressing how motivated he was to silence his critics. ..Continue Reading

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