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It would be fair to say that, overall, last season did not go entirely to plan for Arsenal.

Partly due to injuries and partly due to a lack of form, Mikel Arteta’s side failed to secure the Premier League title.

However, there were still some positives to come from the campaign, notably in the shape of Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri.

The two Hale End talents burst onto the scene around the winter period, and while the former ended up with more of a permanent role in the team, both look to be sensational prospects.

For example, Nwaneri was able to rack up 11 goal involvements in just 1,378 minutes, and so fans should be seriously excited about links to someone who could be Arteta’s next version of the 18-year-old.

Appearances

37

Starts

16

Minutes

1378′

Goals

9

Assists

2

Goal Involvements per Match

0.29

Minutes per Goal Involvement

125.27′

Points per Game

1.95

Arsenal close in on the next Nwaneri

While most headlines and fan attention have focused on the new additions Arsenal have made to the team this summer, such as Martin Zubimendi, Noni Madueke, and now Viktor Gyokeres, the contract renewals have arguably been just as important.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

First, it was man-mountain and fan favourite Gabriel Magalhães who put pen to paper on a new four-year deal, then a few weeks later it was Lewis-Skelly’s turn to do the same with a five-year deal, and most recently, it was Nwaneri who committed the next five years of his career to the project.

The contract for the dynamic teenager came as something of a relief for many fans, as just a couple of weeks ago, there were murmurings that talks were not progressing as well as some at the club would have liked, and that game time was supposedly an issue.

Fortunately, none of those rumours appear to have been accurate, and now, in even more good news, the North Londoners look to have secured another highly-rated youngster who could be the next Nwaneri.

At least that’s according to a recent report from The Athletic, which has confirmed Arsenal’s interest in Salford City youngster Will Wright.

In fact, the report goes even further, revealing that the Gunners have already agreed on a fee with the League Two side, although personal terms still need to be finalised.

While the report makes no mention of how much the teenager is going to cost, stories from earlier this month claimed that the fee is around £200k, which is £100k more than Liverpool supposedly offered.

It might sound like a lot of money for a 17-year-old, but given the ability he has already shown and the potential he has, it could prove to be a bargain years from now, especially as he could be the next Nwaneri.

Why Wright could be the next Nwaneri

Now, comparing a youth product from a League Two side to one of the most exciting youngsters in the Premier League last season might sound like a lot, and that’s because it is.

However, with what Wright has already achieved in Salford’s youth sides and the way those in the know have been speaking about him, we see no reason why he too couldn’t develop into one of the most exciting prospects at Arsenal in the coming years.

Let’s take a look at their numbers for their club’s respective youth sides.

For example, in 52 appearances for the Gunners’ junior teams, Nwaneri managed to rack up a massively impressive tally of 27 goals and ten assists.

In contrast, the Salford gem scored over 40 goals in the academy last season, which is undeniably impressive, and strongly suggests he could be something seriously special.

On top of that, those with a good understanding of junior football are very excited about what the “technically gifted” gem, as dubbed by analyst Bence Bocsak, could develop into.

For example, Total Football Analysis, who take a look at some of the best wonderkids in world football every season, claim he has ‘many of the characteristics to be a top-level centre-forward’ and that, on top of being a prolific goalscorer, he’s also someone who ‘has the ability to connect play.’

Finally, despite being just 17 years old, the sought-after gem is already 6 foot 2, which means he can already physically dominate many of his opponents, and may grow to be even more imposing in the coming years.

Ultimately, it’s notoriously difficult to predict the future careers of young players, but as things stand, Wright appears to be on track to become a future star and potentially emulate Nwaneri’s breakthrough in the coming years.

Medical soon: Arsenal due to sign their new Ian Wright "within 24 hours"

The supremely dangerous attacker could break records at Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 22, 2025

Southee said it “feels right” to sign off from Test cricket after playing the team he debuted against as a teenager

Vishal Dikshit15-Nov-2024After playing two World Cups within the space of a year and featuring in a historic 3-0 Test series win in India is when Tim Southee thought was the “right time” to sign off on his 17-year Test career. Southee also thought it would be special to play his last series against England, the side he had started against 17 years ago as a teenager, and which is now coached by his former captain and close friend Brendon McCullum.Southee revealed he thought about retiring from the format on the recent tour of India, where he bounced the idea off coach Gary Stead, and decided his final three Tests would be the “marquee” series against England at home, especially after the series win in India gave New Zealand a boost to qualify for the WTC final, which Southee will be available for should they make it.”I guess you look at what’s in front of you and last year was that World Cup and we had the T20 World Cup earlier this year,” Southee told reporters about how he reached the decision. “We had this chunk of Test cricket, which I guess was all exciting along the last 12 months, and you near the end of that exciting part and you look forward and it’s a marquee series against a great opposition (England), one obviously which I started against all those years ago, and it feels right.Related

Team-man Tim and the art of letting go (only if he has to)

Tim Southee to bow out of Test cricket at end of England series

Williamson returns for England series, Nathan Smith called up

“I think just playing a game for New Zealand was a dream come true. So to do that at a young age was pretty special and I guess to sit here and [realise] it’s gone, it’s gone extremely quickly and sit here and over the next…however long you’ll reflect more. It’s just been a great ride and there’s still a little bit to go. But certainly, when I took that field in Napier didn’t think we’d be sitting here 17 years on, that’s for sure. But yeah, just been a real privilege and a real honour to fulfil a childhood dream. And represent our country.Looking back at the last 12 months, Southee said: “I think on the back of what happened in India, it’s obviously given us a chance [for the WTC final], but there’s three matches in front of us against a pretty good opposition. So like every match we’ll try and take care of Christchurch first and give ourselves best chance of performing there. But, ideally, obviously, it would be nice to crack on and have another shot at the Test Championship final. But we know there’s a lot of hard work to go on between now and then, but we’re certainly giving ourselves a chance of doing that on the back of a special few weeks in India.”Southee’s final three Tests will be in Christchurch, Wellington and Hamilton, which is home for him now, and that will raise the emotional quotient of his farewell game, by playing in front of close friends and family.”One last chance at three grounds that have been pretty good to me and places I really love playing at. It’s a tough decision but I think it’s the right one. [We’ve] also got some promising young bowlers coming through, which I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working alongside and hopefully taught them a thing or two along the way. And they’ve certainly taught me a thing or two as well, so that’s been a pleasure and it’s their time now to keep driving this team forward.

Test cricket is…There’s nothing like it. I think one feeling that I’ll certainly miss is the day one energy”Southee on what he’ll miss about Test cricket the most

“Hamilton’s now home so it’s nice that [I’ll be] able to walk off there and drive home – probably not drive home – but just to be able to finish in front of friends and family,” Southee said. “It’s a ground that I’ve played a lot of cricket in and I’ve had a lot of cricket for Northern Districts and New Zealand. So it’s a special place like the other two, the Basin and obviously an amazing Test venue in Hagley Oval as well. Like I said, it feels right against a very good opposition, great mate, who’s the coach of the opposition as well. The guy has had a big part in my career and like I said a very close friend.”Southee had made his Test debut in Napier in March 2008 against England under the captaincy of Daniel Vettori, and with senior players Stephen Fleming and McCullum also in the side. He took a five-for in the first innings before closing out the Test – which New Zealand lost by 121 runs – by smashing an unbeaten 77 off 40, studded with nine sixes.”It was just a dream start,” he said of his Test debut. “I think just walking in that changing room, you see the likes of Vettori, Fleming, McCullum as a 19-year-old kid. That was just a special week. Obviously, the result wasn’t what we wanted, but I guess to be able to perform at that level and just you’re walking into changing with your heroes and to be able to get some wickets and some runs in that first game was pretty special.Southee also reflected on New Zealand’s rise across formats in the last 10-odd years, where they reached two ODI World Cup finals in the last three editions and one T20 World Cup final in 2021, apart from lifting the maiden World Test Championship by beating India in the final in 2021, saying the seeds for those were sown sometime around 2012 under McCullum.Tim Southee scored 77 in his Test debut•Getty Images”I think you look back to around that, was it 2012 period when when Brendon took over and there was a real change and the way that we played and the style we played and it felt right,” he said. “We had a great group of players that were a consistent bunch for close to 10 years. The Boults, Wagners, Watlings, Williamsons, Taylors, Latham. There’s a whole lot of group of guys that were able to consistently play together. You look at the good sides around the world, there’s a lot of consistency amongst them. So to have guys that you know inside out and play with them for close to 10 years, I think went a long way to the success we had and then I think we’ve just seen guys coming into a good environment, very skillful players, being able to come and show what they’re capable of and they’ve sort of carried that on. So hopefully long may that continue over the over the next few years as well.When asked what he will miss the most about the format, Southee said, “I think everything. Test cricket is…There’s nothing like it. I think one feeling that I’ll certainly miss is the day one energy. Anyone that’s played Test cricket will understand what I mean about the day one energy around the change room, just the uncertainty around everything and there’s just a real, sit and feel that I’ll certainly miss. That feeling of walking out on the field, representing your country in the whites. There’s a number of things you miss sitting back afterwards, whether you’ve won, lost or drawn. Just sitting in the change room looking around. There’s a lot you’ll miss. But it’s like everything has to come to you at some stage. And I’ve been very lucky to so far play 104 of them, so hopefully a couple more.While reminiscing some of the highlights of his Test career, Southee said: “I think there’ll be more reflecting over the next however long but, I think you look back on a number of series where the Test went in Hobart all those years ago, series win in the West Indies (2014), UAE, obviously what we just achieved in the last few weeks was pretty much the top of the tree with the World Test Championship. So, yeah, just been fortunate to be a part of the side especially over the last 10 or so years, we’ve been able to achieve some pretty special things.”Before his final Test series starting November 28, Southee will also turn out for Northern Districts in the Plunket Shield clash against Auckland at his home ground in Hamilton, from November 19 to 22.

With a chance to seize momentum, the USMNT's performance indicated such momentum is further away than ever

More of the same, That's the best way to sum it up.

If you appreciated Mauricio Pochettino's U.S. men's national team experimentation throughout 2025, you'll understand some of the decisions that went into Saturday's friendly against South Korea. If you weren't a believer in that roster and lineup tinkering? More frustration. No matter which side you were on, it was another loss.

Despite the return of several key players, the USMNT were never really on the front foot in a 2-0 loss to Son Heung-Min and South Korea, the seventh in 17 games of this Pochettino era. There were some bright moments, but few real signs of life. Despite the lessons learned in the spring and summer, the team of the fall offered little more than their predecessors, albeit against a very good South Korea team. 

South Korea and LAFC star Son Heung-Min – who played for Pochettino at Tottenham – stepped up as he so often does, netting the opener in the 19th minute. He played a part in Lee Dong-Gyeong's goal just before halftime, too, providing the assist against an overwhelmed USMNT defense.

There were chances on the other side, for sure, but far too few. South Korea, by and large, looked comfortable, even in the moments in which the USMNT tried to force them out of that comfort zone. South Korea, No. 23 in FIFA's world rankings, took a 2-0 first-half lead over No. 15 USMNT and never let up.

In their last seven matches against top-25 teams, the U.S. have been outscored 11-2 in the first half, and haven't beaten a non-North American top-25 squad since Iran at the 2022 World Cup. The U.S face No. 17 Japan on Tuesday.

For those USMNT players who weren't in the Gold Cup, this is, essentially, a third consecutive loss, following the Nations League exit in March. Just 10 months from a World Cup, there are still very real questions about this team and this group, who did little to prove a point in their latest opportunity to do so.

Yes, Saturday included a mix of experimentation and stars, and that mix didn't work. Now, as the World Cup edges ever-closer, Pocehttino seems no closer to getting that formula right. The clock is ticking.

GOAL rates the USMNT's players from Sports Illustrated Stadium.

Getty ImagesGoalkeeper & Defense

Matt Freese (6/10):

No real blame for him on the goals, and he did make one fantastic save late. Despite the scoreline, he didn't hurt his case, starting in his seventh straight game.

Max Arfsten (5/10):

Had one very bad sequence in the first half but, generally, the game was focused on the other side. That prevented Arfsten from really doing what he does best: going forward, as the U.S. largely played through Sergino Dest.

Tim Ream (5/10):

Put out a few fires, but didn't really have any chemistry with Tristan Blackmon. That led to him running a bit more than you'd like, which obviously isn't his strength at this point in is career.

Tristan Blackmon (3/10):

Just no excusing some of his play in the first half. Fell asleep on Son's goal, had a few bad passes and didn't exactly cover himself in glory on other South Korea attacks, either. A rough debut.

Sergino Dest (6/10):

Probably the best USMNT player on the field. Created a few half-chances and frequently looked to take on defenders as he usually does. One of few positive signs for a team that will be glad to have him back.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesMidfield

Tyler Adams (4/10):

A poor game by his standards. Couldn't really progress the ball and, even when he did get stuck in, he generally either committed a foul or didn't get the ball. 

Sebastian Berhalter (5/10):

Did some positive things, headlined by a good shot early on and one really good cross. But also clearly struggled with the quality of the opponent throughout the game.

Diego Luna (6/10):

Out of all the players on the field, Luna was the one most keen to try things. That's not a surprise, but those don't always come off. Still, you get points for trying, especially in such a frustrating performance otherwise.

Getty ImagesAttack

Tim Weah (5/10):

Never really broke free in the way that the USMNT needed him to. Had one shot go 50 feet over the goal in the second half, which seemed a good metaphor for both him and the USMNT.

Josh Sargent (4/10):

A pretty hopeless job, to be fair. His only service generally came via hopeful longballs, which asked him to win one-on-ones with Bayern Munich defender Kim Min-Jae. Have fun with that.

Christian Pulisic (5/10):

Unfair to say anonymous, but certainly wasn't the main character here, either. Got on the ball plenty, but didn't do much of anything in the final third. Not the performance he really wanted or needed, especially compared to Son's explosiveness for South Korea.

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Getty ImagesSubs & Manager

Alex Freeman (6/10):

Touted as a potential Dest replacement in moments of need, Freeman looked the part in his second-half run out.

Chris Richards (7/10):

Came on and immediately calmed down the defense. Also nearly scored on the USMNT's best chance of the game. That's why he's arguably the most locked-in starter in this group.

Cristian Roldan (6/10):

A logical substitution, even if he did join camp late. Provided some stability and won the ball back a few times.

Folarin Balogun (7/10):

This game was better designed for him than for Sargent, so it's worth wondering what it would have been like if he got the start? Illustrating that fact – his eight touches in the box compared to Sargent's one.

Alex Zendejas (7/10):

Similar to his appearance against Mexico in the fall, the Club America star came in and brought life. Tried hard to make something happen, so credit to him for that.

Jack McGlynn (6/10):

Played about 10 minutes or so. Was tidy enough on the ball, but nothing outstanding.

Mauricio Pochettino (3/10):

Tactically, got certain things right but certainly got some aspects very wrong. Yes, the game was defined by individual errors, but Pochettino picked the individuals, which is how the USMNT end up in this spot.

There is one story that has been dominating the Newcastle United headlines throughout the summer transfer window, and it is showing no signs of stopping.

Will Alexander Isak remain at St. James’ Park or is he going to complete a British record transfer to Premier League champions Liverpool before September’s deadline?

The Athletic’s David Ornstein revealed that Newcastle turned down an offer from Liverpool on Friday, and that the Sweden international did not accept the club’s proposal to sign a new contract with a release clause that activates next summer.

Daily Mail’s Craig Hope then added that the offer from the Reds was worth around £110m, which fell well short of the club’s valuation of £150m.

As you can see in the post above, Eddie Howe is leaving the situation down to the people above him at the club, but he would like to see Isak back in his squad.

Why selling Alexander Isak would be a big blow for Newcastle

It does not take a genius to work out that the Swedish centre-forward is an incredibly important player for the English head coach heading into the 2025/26 campaign.

Only Mohamed Salah (29) scored more goals than Isak (23) in the Premier League last season, as the Newcastle man outscored Erling Haaland (22), Cole Palmer (15), Ollie Watkins (16), and Bryan Mbeumo (20), among others.

This shows that the former Borussia Dortmund marksman is one of the best goalscorers in the top-flight, and potentially the best number nine in the division, given that Salah is a right-sided attacker.

Isak also scored 21 goals in 30 Premier League matches in the 2023/24 campaign for the Magpies, which shows that his form last season was not just a flash in the pan. He is a consistent performer who has proven that he can score goals in the league at an exceptional rate.

xG

20.42

Top 4%

Goals

23

Top 1%

Shots on target

46

Top 4%

xA

3.60

Top 4%

Assists

6

Top 6%

Successful dribbles

42

Top 6%

Touches in the opposition’s box

211

Top 1%

As you can see in the table above, the 25-year-old sensation is not just a prolific goalscorer, he is also excellent for the Magpies in their build-up play with his ability as a dribbler and as a creator.

Isak is the total package as a Premier League number nine, hence why Newcastle want a British record fee of £150m from Liverpool to tempt them into cashing in on him.

This is why losing him would be such a big blow for Howe and his team this summer, although it would provide them with funds to bring in new additions.

Newcastle in talks to sign Premier League forward

According to The Boot Room, Newcastle United are eyeing up a number of potential forward signings to ease the possible blow of losing Isak before the end of the window.

The report claims that the Magpies are in talks to sign Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig, but they would also like another striker alongside the Slovenia international.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

It states that the Premier League side are also in talks over a possible deal to sign Senegal international Nicolas Jackson from rivals Chelsea.

Newcastle are pursuing a deal to bring the Blues number nine over to Tyneside in the coming weeks, and he is viewed as an option to come in alongside Sesko, not instead of him, should Isak depart.

Jackson reportedly has a £60m price tag over his head at Stamford Bridge, though it remains to be seen whether or not the Magpies are willing to pay that to snap him up this summer.

Why Nicolas Jackson could be an underrated signing for Newcastle

Supporters may look at the Chelsea striker and see that he scored ten goals from 12.34 xG in the Premier League last season, and be underwhelmed by this potential signing.

The 24-year-old marksman could be an underrated signing for the Magpies, though, because he has the potential to be an Isak clone at St. James’ Park, as outlandish as that may seem right now.

As per FBref, Isak is the most similar player, statistically, to Jackson in the Men’s Top 5 Leagues and European competitions over the last 365 days.

As you can see in the chart above, they are similar in a lot of ways, particularly at getting into high-quality goalscoring positions and creating chances for their teammates.

Like Newcastle’s £150m-rated superstar, Jackson is a well-rounded centre-forward who offers quality in build-up as a dribbler and a creative presence, but he has yet to show the brutal efficiency that Isak has in front of goal as a finisher.

xG

12.34

Top 16%

Goals

10

Top 28%

xA

1.92

Top 22%

Assists

5

Top 10%

Successful dribbles

18

Top 20%

Touches in the opposition’s box

153

Top 14%

As you can see in the table above, the Chelsea forward ranks highly among his positional peers in the division at creating chances, beating opposition players with dribbles, and getting touches in the box.

Jackson, who was described as a “monster” of a striker by John Obi Mikel, has a similar play style to Isak, as they are both strikers who want to get involved in the game beyond just scoring goals.

But, of course, the Newcastle man is significantly better at scoring goals at this moment in time, as evidenced by his return of 13 more league goals than Jackson last term.

If Howe can work with the Senegalese forward to improve his finishing and his composure in front of goal, the Magpies could end up with an incredibly underrated signing by bringing the Chelsea man in as a potential Isak clone due to his all-round game and what he offers as a striker.

Upgrade on Sesko: Newcastle considering move for £23m “nuisance”

Newcastle eye Premier League alternative to RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Šeško

ByWill Miller Aug 1, 2025

Whilst Newcastle and their supporters will not want to lose Isak to Liverpool in the coming weeks, signing Sesko and Jackson as a pair could soften the blow somewhat.

Tottenham Hotspur have opened talks to sign Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze, as widely reported, and Spurs chairman Daniel Levy has a price in mind.

Fabrizio Romano was among the reliable media outlets to confirm Spurs’ negotiations for Eze in a separate deal to their pursuit of Man City winger Savinho, with supporters now poised for a potentially exciting end to the transfer window.

“Understand Tottenham are also back in talks for Eberechi Eze in separate deal from Savinho,” wrote Romano on X.

“Spurs trying again for Eze while they work on Savinho, following Maddison injury and Son exit. Eze keen but deal depends on Palace as release clause expired.”

Interestingly, other reliable media sources differ with Romano about Eze’s £68 million release clause.

According to both talkSPORT and Standard Sport, the buy-out currently remains active and won’t expire until this Friday – potentially giving Levy and co a window of opportunity to trigger it and make Eze a Spurs player.

In a further bit of good news for Thomas Frank, who is in dire need of another creative attacking player after James Maddison’s ACL rupture, Eze is reportedly becoming open to joining Tottenham before the transfer deadline on September 1.

It is important to note that Frank’s side face stiff competition from north London rivals Arsenal, who have been in pursuit of the 27-year-old for well over a month after holding consistent talks with his representatives (Fabrizio Romano).

However, Arsenal currently have to make sales first (The Telegraph), and that may be stopping them from making a formal bid for Eze.

Their hesitancy could hand Spurs an advantage in the race for Eze, especially considering Levy and technical director Johan Lange were ready to splash £60 million on Nottingham Forest’s number 10, Morgan Gibbs-White, over a month ago.

The price Tottenham want to pay for Eberechi Eze

According to reliable journalist Ben Jacobs, Tottenham have a minimum valuation for the England international and an ideal price they’re willing to pay, as Levy looks to strike a deal quickly.

Taking to X, Jacobs reports that Levy wants to pay a similar fee to their deal for winger Mohammed Kudus – around £55 million.

That being said, Palace have been clear in their demands to sell their star attacking asset.

Given Tottenham’s glaring need for another forward option, after losing Son Heung-min to LAFC, Maddison to injury and being forced to deal with Dejan Kulusevski’s continued absence, it is imperative that Levy pulls no punches here.

Eze appears set to cost a similar price to what they were more than prepared to pay for Gibbs-White, so the Lilywhites clearly have the necessary funds to meet Palace’s valuation.

He’d be worth every penny, too, having averaged more shots, key passes and successful take-ons per 90 than any other Palace player in the Premier League last term – all whilst racking up 14 goals and a further 11 assists in all competitions.

Eze can also play on the left-wing when required, and you can make a serious case that he’s exactly who Frank is crying out for.

Tilak jumped a whopping 69 places after his back-to-back centuries in South Africa

ESPNcricinfo staff20-Nov-2024India allrounder Hardik Pandya is back on top of the T20I allrounders list in the ICC rankings, while Tilak Varma has broken into the top 10 among batters for the first time.Hardik displaced England’s Liam Livingstone at the top and also overtook Nepal’s Dipendra Singh Airee after he picked up two wickets and scored 18, 39 not out and 2 in the T20Is against South Africa. His top performance was his spell of 1 for 8 that included a maiden in three overs in the fourth T20I in Johannesburg. The last time Hardik rose to the top of the allrounders list was just a few months ago, after India won the T20 World Cup in June also by beating South Africa.Tilak, the Player of the Series in the recent bilaterals, shot up 69 places among the batters after his consecutive and unbeaten centuries that followed scores of 20 and 33 in the first two T20Is. He is now placed third, after Travis Head and Phil Salt, and closely followed by his captain Suryakumar Yadav. Sanju Samson, the other batter with two hundreds in the series, went up 17 places to 22nd, as he also bagged two ducks between the two centuries. Among bowlers, left-arm quick Arshdeep Singh moved to ninth after gaining three spots with the help of eight wickets against South Africa. Arshdeep was the top-wicket taker in the series among fast bowlers and bagged three-fors in the last two games.Adam Zampa, who picked up six wickets against Pakistan, was among the biggest gainers among the bowlers, reaching third spot after rising five places, just behind Adil Rashid and Wanindu Hasaranga. His team-mate Nathan Ellis shot up a significant 15 spots to reach 11th rank, after he finished the three T20Is against Pakistan with four wickets, including figures of 3 for 9 in the opening match that was truncated by rain.For South Africa, Tristan Stubbs climbed three places to move to 23rd whereas Heinrich Klaasen jumped six places but remained out of top 50, at 59th.After the 1-1 T20I series between Sri Lanka and New Zealand, Kusal Mendis rose to joint 12th spot after going up three places. After they won the ODIs 2-0, Maheesh Theekshana went up six places to be placed sixth, that pushed Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj one spot down each, to seventh and eighth respectively.

Johnny Cardoso and Julian Alvarez have been left out of Atletico Madrid's squad to face Liverpool in their Champions League opener. Alvarez has been a mainstay in Diego Simeone's side since completing his move to the Spanish club from Manchester City in 2024, and has two goal contributions to his name from four appearances so far this season.

Simeone names 22-man squad for Liverpool clash

Atletico Madrid have officially released the 22-man squad Simeone has chosen to travel to Merseyside to face reigning Premier League champions Liverpool in their Champions League opener. Alvarez and Cardoso are the most notable absentees, but Thiago Almada, Jose Maria Gimenez, and Alex Baena have also been omitted from the squad.

AdvertisementGettyAlvarez picked up injury against Villarreal

Alvarez started Atletico's latest La Liga fixture against Villarreal but was substituted at half-time after suffering a knee injury. The Argentina international has yet to recover from the knock and will miss the European clash against the Reds. While Alvarez missed half of the Villarreal game, he did provide the assist for Pablo Barrios' early goal as Simeone's side picked up a comfortable 2-0 win.

Getty ImagesWhy is Cardoso unable to play?

United States men's national team star Cardoso, who joined Atletico from fellow La Liga club Real Betis for a fee of $35 million (£25.7m) in the summer, reportedly sustained a sprain during the club's training session on Monday and will not travel to the UK for Champions League duty.

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Getty ImagesAnfield to Mallorca: Quick turnaround for Atletico

After facing Liverpool at Anfield on Wednesday, Simeone's Atletico side will only have four days to prepare for their next La Liga outing away at Real Mallorca on Sunday. Atletico are down in 11th in the table after winning just one of their first four games.

The terms of a “secret” release clause in Harry Kane’s contract at Bayern Munich have been revealed, with it possible that the former Tottenham striker could return to the Premier League in 2026. In order for that to happen, two key conditions must be met – with any suitors in English football likely to be keeping a close eye on events in Germany.

England captain finally lifted trophy curse

Kane, having become Spurs’ all-time leading scorer, stepped out of his comfort zone in 2023 when heading to the Allianz Arena. He had to be patient in pursuit of elusive major honours, but broke his trophy curse when becoming a Bundesliga title winner in 2024-25.

AdvertisementGettyGoal numbers: Kane's record for Bayern

He has since gone on to savour Supercup glory, with his remarkable tally of goals for Bayern standing at 98 through 103 appearances. The 32-year-old has been in red-hot form this season, netting two hat-tricks already, and appears set to make more history.

Shearer's record in Kane's thoughts?

Kane has, however, been generating exit talk in Bavaria. There have been rumours of interest from Barcelona, while a return to England would allow the prolific No.9 to chase down Alan Shearer’s all-time Premier League goals record.

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GettyFee & how to trigger: Kane could leave Munich

According to , there is a £57 million ($77m) clause in Kane’s contract that can be triggered in the summer of 2026. In order for that cut-price fee to become active, the ex-Spurs star must inform Bayern of his intention to leave before the end of the winter window in January.

UK prime minister weighs in on England’s clash in Lahore after cross-party group of politicians raise concerns

ESPNcricinfo staff07-Jan-2025Keir Starmer, the UK prime minister, has called on the ICC to “deliver on their own rules” when it comes to women’s rights in Afghanistan*, as he weighed into the row over England’s scheduled Champions Trophy clash with the country’s cricketers next month.England are due to face Afghanistan in Lahore on February 26 in their second match of the tournament, and the ECB is under pressure to take action after receiving a letter from the Labour MP Tonia Antoniazzi, signed by a cross-party group of more than 160 politicians, including Jeremy Corbyn, Lord Kinnock and Nigel Farage.The letter raised concerns over the “insidious dystopia” and “sex apartheid” in Afghanistan, where women’s sport has effectively been outlawed since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. The men’s cricket team has played England twice in this period, solely at ICC global events, including a famous victory in their most recent meeting at the 2023 ODI World Cup.”We strongly urge the England men’s team players and officials to speak out against the horrific treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban,” the letter, addressed to Richard Gould, the ECB’s chief executive, continued.”We also urge the ECB to consider a boycott of the upcoming match against Afghanistan … to send a clear signal that such grotesque abuses will not be tolerated. We must stand against sex apartheid and we implore the ECB to deliver a firm message of solidarity and hope to Afghan women and girls that their suffering has not been overlooked.”Responding to the letter, Gould rejected calls for a boycott, saying that the Taliban regime’s clampdown on women’s rights is a matter that requires a “co-ordinated, ICC-led, response” rather than unilateral action from individual countries.That stance has now received support from Downing Street.”The ICC should clearly deliver on their own rules and make sure that they’re supporting women’s cricket as the ECB do,” the prime minister’s spokesman said. “That’s why we support the fact that the ECB are making representations to the ICC on this issue.”The erosion of women’s and girls’ rights by the Taliban is clearly appalling. We’ll work with the ECB on this issue, we’re in contact with them. Ultimately this is a matter for the ICC in relation to the Champions Trophy.”The situation echoes the dilemma that England’s cricketers faced at the 2003 World Cup, when Nasser Hussain’s team were urged to boycott their group-stage match with Zimbabwe, then led by Robert Mugabe – a decision that was ultimately left to the players, and resulted in a points forfeiture that scuppered their qualification for the tournament’s latter stages.Gould’s response to Antoniazzi confirmed that the ECB has no intention of engaging in a bilateral series with Afghanistan while the Taliban regime is in power, but insisted that their participation at ICC events was a matter for the governing body as a whole, and not for individual members.”The ECB strongly condemns the treatment of women and girls in Afghanistan under the Taliban regime,” Gould wrote. “The ICC constitution mandates that all member nations are committed to the growth and development of women’s cricket. In line with this commitment, the ECB has maintained its position of not scheduling any bilateral cricket matches against Afghanistan,” he continued.”While there has not been a consensus on further international action within the ICC, the ECB will continue to actively advocate for such measures. A coordinated, ICC-wide approach would be significantly more impactful than unilateral actions by individual members.”We acknowledge and respect the diverse perspectives on this global issue,” Gould added. “We understand the concerns raised by those who believe a boycott of men’s cricket could inadvertently support the Taliban’s efforts to suppress freedoms and isolate Afghan society.”It’s crucial to recognise the importance of cricket as a source of hope and positivity for many Afghans, including those displaced from the country. The ECB is committed to finding a solution that upholds the rights of women and girls in Afghanistan while also considering the broader impact on the Afghan people.”We will continue to engage in constructive dialogue with the UK government, other stakeholders, the ICC, and other international cricket boards to explore all possible avenues for meaningful change.”*1900 GMT – This story was updated with Starmer’s response

Aston Villa’s usual top performers have been out of sorts across their side’s opening two Premier League clashes.

Both Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers have fired unconvincing blanks, as Villa drew 0-0 on the opening day versus Newcastle, before then tasting a narrow 1-0 defeat away at AFC Bournemouth to further pile on the early misery for Unai Emery’s men. Watkins, who was on fire in pre-season, has been particularly absent in those matches.

Emery will hope this rust isn’t visible for much longer as the games come thick and fast in the challenging division.

But, whatever does occur during his side’s next outing in the tough league, he will surely be eyeing up some new attacking additions in the transfer market to improve his team’s chances of getting out of this mini rut.

Aston Villa in pole position to sign £60m star

The West Midlands underperformers will have to get deals done at a quick pace, with September’s early deadline fast approaching.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

In a hectic window that has been dominated by departures – with the likes of Jacob Ramsey and Leon Bailey leaving Villa Park behind recently – it would be a much-needed change of narrative if Villa could tempt some standout last-ditch additions through the door.

A reported deal for Marco Asensio might well be a last-gasp incoming that gets fans back on side, having previously impressed on loan at Emery’s side last season, while there is also notable interest on Villa’s end about obtaining Chelsea flop Christopher Nkunku to enhance their attacking options.

He, of course, isn’t the only Stamford Bridge asset being eyed up by Emery and Co, with a recent report from Football Insider suggesting that Villa are now in pole position to snap up Blues reserve forward Nicolas Jackson.

Jackson previously featured under Emery at Villarreal, and so the ex-Arsenal boss will hope he can get his former attacker firing at Villa Park, knowing full well that this close-knit link with the hit-and-miss 24-year-old could seal a late £60m deal.

How Jackson can become Emery's next Aubameyang

With 24 Premier League goals under his belt in West London, it’s clear that there is a lethal goalscoring gem waiting to be uncovered, and with Emery’s sublime track record, which saw him get the very best out of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang at the Gunners, a match made in heaven might soon come to fruition.

Just before Arteta took on the Emirates reins, Emery was tasked with trying to bring success to Arsenal right after Arsene Wenger’s esteemed two-decade stretch.

While his time in North London was fraught with bumps, with a costly 20 losses suffered across 78 contests, it goes without saying that he created a clinical machine out of Aubameyang when situated in the Gunners’ dugout.

The now Marseille veteran would collect a blistering 41 goals and eight assists under the Spaniard’s wing, with 22 of those coming in league action during the 2018/19 season, which saw him share the golden boot accolade with esteemed company in Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane.

Emery would even go as far as to label Aubameyang a “killer” in front of goal off the back of these Arsenal heroics, and while it is somewhat unrealistic to expect Jackson to hit golden boot level numbers donning Villa claret and blue, the 53-year-old’s caring arm around the Senegalese forward could be just what is needed to allow him to move on from his up-and-down Chelsea ordeal.

After all, he displayed signs of raw promise under Emery’s tutelage in Spain, with six goal contributions coming his way from 27 clashes for the Yellow Submarine.

Moreover, the well-travelled manager has even gone on to hail Jackson’s attitude as “exceptional” when trying to cut his teeth at the La Liga side.

He could finally be able to get the very best out of him at Villa Park, away from just being an early believer in his potential, with Emery again working his exceptional magic on forward players in the West Midlands, as seen in Watkins powering home a mighty 58 goals during his Villa reign to date.

Games played

65

Goals scored

24

Assists

10

Big chances missed

43

Of course, the main worry will be that even in an environment more suited to him, Jackson will still regularly fluff his lines, having missed a staggering 43 big chances for the Blues over two Premier League seasons.

But, there does seem to be something in the water when it comes to Emery developing red-hot strikers, having also made Jhon Duran into a temporary animal in the West Midlands.

Therefore, landing the “unbelievable” star – as he has been previously dubbed by Peter Crouch – could be a stroke of genius, particularly if he goes on to be as potent as Aubameyang was during his Arsenal heyday.

New Rogers: Aston Villa make late bid to sign "spectacular" £25m star

Aston Villa interested in La Masia market opportunity similar to Morgan Rogers

ByWill Miller Aug 24, 2025