AC Milan & Inter have hired the architects behind Manchester United's new stadium to build a 71,500-capacity ground, with San Siro set to be demolished. The €1 billion project will see the two fierce rivals come together off the pitch in a once-in-a-generation move. Work is scheduled to begin in 2027, with doors opening to fans in 2030.
Man UtdOld Trafford masterminds receive new project
To design the new stadium, the clubs have turned to the same architects currently leading the reconstruction of Old Trafford. Lord Norman Foster’s firm, Foster + Partners, and David Manica’s MANICA Architecture have been handed the keys to the ambitious project. Foster is already crafting United’s proposed 100,000-seater stadium, and his new Milan mission adds yet another football fortress to a career defined by bold, global landmarks.
AdvertisementGlobal giants behind the design
Foster’s CV reads like a roll call of modern icons. From Apple’s glass-walled headquarters in Cupertino to the Hong Kong and Beijing airports, to the Millennium Bridge in London, his stamp is on the world’s most eye-catching structures. He also masterminded the Wembley Stadium precinct redevelopment, which is now buzzing with shops, restaurants and housing.
MANICA, meanwhile, has carved out a reputation as a leader in sporting arenas. Their resume includes Allegiant Stadium, home of NFL franchise Las Vegas Raiders, and the Chase Centre, where NBA giants Golden State Warriors play. The firm is also behind two of America’s next mega-projects: the Chicago Bears’ new home and Miami Freedom Park, Inter Miami’s soon-to-open fortress.
AFPA partnership decades in the making
This isn’t the first time Foster and Manica have crossed paths. Their collaboration stretches back nearly 30 years, starting with the new Wembley project. They also joined forces in the successful bid for Qatar’s Lusail Iconic Stadium, the centrepiece of the 2022 World Cup where Lionel Messi lifted the trophy. For Milan and Inter, that long-standing relationship brings confidence as they are not strangers thrown together but a seasoned partnership that has delivered stadiums of global renown.
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A billion-euro colossus
The future stadium will rise on the land currently occupied by car parks behind the west stand of San Siro. It will seat 71,500 fans, with 13,000 premium spaces dedicated to corporate guests and hospitality. The design promises cutting-edge facilities, an eco-conscious build, and commercial attractions to cement it as more than just a football ground. The estimated cost, over €1bn, marks one of the biggest infrastructure investments in Italian sport.
Veteran allrounder brings valuable experience to Trent Bridge following the loss of Alex Hales
ESPNcricinfo staff20-Feb-2025Australian allrounder Moises Henriques has joined Notts Outlaws for the 2025 Vitality Blast.Henriques, who has made 10 appearances in the competition for Surrey across two stints, the most recent coming in 2017, has been capped 44 times for his country, with the majority (24) coming in T20Is.The 38-year old brings a wealth of experience, with 282 matches in the T20 format. As Sydney Sixers captain, he has led his side to two Big Bash League titles, and is the leading appearance maker in Australia’s domestic competition, as well as being the fourth highest runscorer in its history.A stalwart of the global franchise scene, Henriques has featured in nine editions of the Indian Premier League, and played a prominent role in Sunrisers Hyderabad’s triumph in 2016. He has also won the now-defunct T20 Champions League twice with New South Wales.”I can’t wait to get over to Nottingham this season to play in the Blast,” Henriques said. “Trent Bridge is an iconic cricket ground and I’m looking forward to playing in front of their amazing crowds.”On a personal note, I’ve made some great friends over the years with both past players and staff from Notts and their values as people I’m sure represent their time there, which I can’t wait to experience.”Notts have had a lot of success over the last decade and I’ll be looking to add to that. The current squad looks extremely talented and young and hopefully with my experiences of T20 cricket around the world I can add a bit of value to the group both on and off the field.”Henriques will fill Outlaws’ second overseas spot, joining fellow Australian Daniel Sams, and is a welcome boost following the news that veteran opener Alex Hales will skip the English season to take up franchise opportunities overseas during the summer.Nottinghamshire finished bottom of the North Group in 2024, and have not made the latter stages of the T20 Blast since winning it for the second time in 2020.”Moises’s experience and quality as a player will add a huge amount to our squad, while he’ll be another leader in the group,” said head coach Peter Moores. “His reputation as a captain precedes him. He’ll provide great support for Joe (Clarke) as he continues to grow into that role.”His ability to negotiate a run chase or set a score with the bat has been well proven over the years, providing experience and stability in a new look batting line up. Crucially he’s used to playing in a winning set up, which is exactly the mentality we’re looking to build as we move forward as a team.”
The summer of the saga is finally over, but it’s difficult to know how Newcastle United supporters will feel about it.
On deadline day, Alexander Isak joined Liverpool for a reported fee of £125m, including add-ons, which makes this a British transfer record.
The Swede has, quite publicly, been on strike all summer as he attempted to force through this move to Merseyside, skipping the Magpies’ pre-season tour of Asia and also not turning up to the PFA awards, where he was named in the team of the season.
As a result, the Geordie faithful have completely turned against Isak, making it frankly unfathomable that he would ever play for the club again, so most will be glad to see him gone, albeit their team are losing arguably the best striker in the Premier League.
Isak's Premier League record before joining Liverpool.
The Magpies have signed two very expensive strikers to fill his void, it remains to be seen if they’ll come good, but the astronomical fees being paid by all clubs this summer has only underlined the fact that Newcastle struck gold snapping up their talisman.
Newcastle's Isak replacements
On Saturday, Newcastle announced the signing of striker Nick Woltemade, arriving from Stuttgart for an initial fee of £65m plus up to £4.3m in add-ons.
This time last year, barely anyone had heard of Woltemade, considering he’d scored just two top division goals during his time at Werder Bremen.
However, the 23-year-old really burst onto the scene at Stuttgart, netting 18 times in just 36 appearances for die Schwaben, including scoring during each round of the DFB-Pokal, breaking the deadlock against Arminia Bielefeld in May’s final, as his side won the competition for the first time since 1997.
He then further enhanced his reputation during this summer’s U21 European Championships, bagging a hat-trick during Germany’s tournament opener against Slovenia, picking up the golden boot by netting six times in total, as die Mannschaft were defeated 3-2 by England in the final in Bratislava.
Stuttgart's Nick Woltemade
Standing at 198 cms (6 ft 6 in) tall, he is nicknamed “Woltemessi” due to his perceived good touch for a big man, so it’ll be fascinating to see how he fares on Tyneside.
That is not all, though, because on deadline day, Newcastle also finally completed the signing of long-term target Yoane Wissa.
The DR Congo international himself had gone full-Isak at Brentford, refusing to play as he pushed for a move, but the two clubs agreed a fee of £55m on Monday, after bids of £25m and £40m had both been rejected earlier this summer.
Wissa leaves West London as Brentford’s all-time leading scorer in the Premier League, having been on target 49 times in all competitions for the Bees, 19 of which came in the Premier League last season, a tally only bettered by Mohamed Salah, Isak, Erling Braut Håland, Bryan Mbeumo and Chris Wood.
At 28 years old, however, £55m for Wissa, when you’ve also just signed another striker for around £70m, does seem very high, further underlining how much of a bargain Newcastle’s talisman has proved to be.
Newcastle talisman signed for a bargain fee
Back in October 2021, the Saudi Public Investment Fund completed their £305m takeover of Newcastle United and, after swiftly replacing Steve Bruce with Eddie Howe, they wanted to make a splash in the transfer market.
During that first January window, with the Toon Army very much embroiled in a relegation battle, having won just one of their first 20 fixtures, the new owners spent big to ensure Premier League survival.
Four new signings arrived for a combined £90m, namely Chris Wood, Kieran Trippier, Dan Burn and Bruno Guimarães, and the latter instantaneously became a cult hero on Tyneside.
To date, Guimarães has made 147 appearances for the Magpies, scoring 23 goals and registering 24 assists, playing an instrumental role in the team that won last season’s EFL Cup, ending the club’s 70-year wait for major domestic silverware.
The table below emphasises his importance to Newcastle.
Minutes
3,844
2nd
Goals
5
7th
Assists
8
4th
Shots
54
4th
Completed passes
1,481
3rd
Key passes
52
1st
Passes into final third
180
1st
Progress passes
271
1st
Shot-creating actions
133
1st
Big chances created
13
2nd
Tackles
83
1st
Interceptions
33
3rd
Ball recoveries
188
2nd
Touches
2,213
3rd
Avg Sofascore rating
7.22
3rd
As the table reinforces, Guimarães is pivotal to everything Newcastle achieve; ranked first by every passing metric, while also in the top two for out-of-possession statistics, tackles and ball recoveries, producing goals, assists and chance creation at the other end of the pitch too.
The £40m paid to Olympique Lyonnais to secure his signature has turned out to be a complete bargain, especially considering his current estimated transfer value is around £69m.
Bruno Guimaraes
For comparison, new signings Woltemade and Wissa are valued at around £26m and £27.6m respectively, substantially lower than the fees Newcastle have paid.
His international teammate Casemiro is certainly a fan, stating that Guimarães has been “exceptional” at Newcastle, adding that he is a “great player who has been demonstrating this in the most difficult league in the world”.
Thus, now that Isak has finally departed Tyneside, the Brazilian midfielder is ready to step up and be Newcastle’s talisman, leading them into a Champions League campaign, with Barcelona the first visitors to St James’ Park on 18 September; what a tie that’ll be.
Imagine him & Bruno: Newcastle lodge bid for "one of the world's best DMs"
Newcastle are looking to sign one of the best midfielders on the planet to partner Bruno Guimaraes
As the transfer deadline looms, Everton are once again at the centre of speculation.
The Toffees have been among the more proactive Premier League sides this summer, with David Moyes overseeing a rebuild designed to inject both quality and long-term stability into the squad.
Jack Grealish’s high-profile switch from Manchester City dominated headlines, and he wasted little time in making his mark at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, registering two assists on his competitive debut in a 2-0 win over Brighton.
Everton backed up that performance with a comfortable 2-0 EFL Cup victory over Mansfield Town, further raising optimism among supporters.
Despite those encouraging results, Everton’s league campaign began with a setback – a narrow 1-0 defeat away at Leeds United.
That loss underlined the need for further reinforcements if the club are to mount a genuine push into the top half of the Premier League.
Everton looking to sign another English talent
Moyes has already welcomed the likes of Thierno Barry, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and Tyler Dibling into his squad, yet midfield remains an area of focus.
With Abdoulaye Doucouré departing earlier in the summer, a vacancy exists in the heart of Everton’s team.
The Toffees have been linked with a possible reunion between Moyes and Tomas Souček, but there is also a strong suggestion that another deal could be in the works – one that could see Everton land a player reminiscent of club stalwart Gareth Barry.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
According to Football Insider, Everton are one of several Premier League clubs weighing up a late move for Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney.
The 23-year-old has told his boyhood club that he would consider leaving if a top-flight opportunity presents itself before the window shuts. Crystal Palace and West Ham are also monitoring developments.
Hackney, described by analyst Ben Mattinson as a “special player,” has been integral to Middlesbrough’s perfect start under new manager Rob Edwards, playing every minute of their three consecutive Championship victories.
He has already contributed a goal and an assist this season, showcasing his ability to influence matches in the final third.
Why Hackney evokes memories of Gareth Barry
For Hackney, the chance to step up into the Premier League could be a natural next step in a career that has already seen him capped 13 times at England U21 level, including as part of the squad that retained the European Championship this summer.
England'sHaydenHackneyscores their first goal
Marketed at around £10m by Transfermarkt, the youngster would represent an affordable option compared with some of Everton’s other recent investments.
That figure is particularly notable when set against the £42m the club committed to sign winger Dibling from Southampton earlier this week – a move that underlined Moyes’ determination to secure the best emerging English talent.
For Everton fans, however, Hackney’s potential arrival carries echoes of one of the club’s most successful midfield signings of the Premier League era: Gareth Barry.
Like Barry, Hackney is a technically accomplished left-footed midfielder who thrives in dictating tempo, recycling possession, and providing a calm platform for more attacking players to flourish.
Statistically, his numbers suggest a player already capable of making the step-up.
According to FBref, he ranks favourably compared to midfielders in similar divisions to the Championship, sitting in the 99th percentile for progressive passes per 90 (9.92) and the 91st percentile for shot-creating actions (3.80) among players in leagues of Championship equivalence.
Hayden Hackney for Middlesbrough
His ability to move the ball forward – whether through incisive passing or by carrying possession himself (97th percentile for progressive carries) – highlights his suitability for Moyes’ system, which increasingly relies on controlled build-up from deep.
Defensively, Hackney also contributes, sitting in the 82nd percentile for blocks (1.54 per 90), which demonstrates an ability to screen effectively and disrupt opposition attacks.
This blend of on-ball quality and off-ball responsibility is precisely what made Barry such a valuable figure during his time at Goodison Park.
Matches Played
43
Minutes Played
3,792
Goals
5
Assists
3
Progressive Carries
118
Progressive Passes
440
The contrast with Everton’s other major summer signing, Dibling, is instructive.
Whereas Dibling’s profile – marked by elite percentile rankings for dribbles attempted (5.28), fouls drawn (2.49), and dribblers tackled (61.5%) – reflects the skillset of an explosive wide player, Hackney offers a quieter but equally crucial influence.
He would provide structure and control from midfield, knitting phases of play together and giving Everton stability in possession.
This dual-pronged approach of flair on the flanks combined with composure and tempo in midfield is central to Moyes’ vision of a balanced squad.
Hackney would not only cover the void left by Doucouré’s departure but also give Everton something they have lacked in recent years: a metronomic midfielder capable of dictating rhythm against stubborn opponents.
Much like Barry did during his four-year spell at the club, Hackney could serve as the understated yet indispensable figure around whom others operate.
His consistency at Middlesbrough – 43 appearances last season, contributing five goals and three assists – shows a player with the reliability and endurance to take on such a role at the top level.
With a market value of £10m, Hackney represents both a relatively low-risk and potentially transformative addition.
His signing would also reinforce Everton’s emerging identity as a club investing in technically proficient English players who could form the core of the team for years to come.
With the window set to close on Monday, Everton must act swiftly if they are to secure Hackney’s signature ahead of their rivals.
For the player himself, the lure of the Premier League and the chance to develop under Moyes could prove decisive.
Dream Grealish repeat: Everton enter race to sign "mind-boggling" £40m star
Everton could seal a stunning Jack Grealish repeat by snapping up this exceptional ace.
England have lost nine of their ten white-ball games this year, culminating in their early exit from the Champions Trophy
Matt Roller26-Feb-20253:13
Knight: Will be tough for Buttler to hold on to captaincy
Jos Buttler has conceded that he will “consider all possibilities” about his future as England’s white-ball captain after they were eliminated from the Champions Trophy following an eight-run defeat to Afghanistan on Wednesday night. It was their ninth loss in ten white-ball matches this year.Buttler won the 2022 T20 World Cup, his first ICC tournament as captain, but England have underperformed ever since. They lost six out of nine games at the 2023 ODI World Cup, were thrashed by India in the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup in 2024, and have now gone out of the Champions Trophy with one group match remaining following back-to-back defeats to Australia and Afghanistan.Related
Decline and fall: England face up to scale of ODI rebuilding job
Zadran 177, Omarzai five-wicket haul knock England out
Matthew Mott lost his job as England’s coach after last year’s T20 World Cup and Buttler admitted that he had feared for his own job at the time. He has since captained the team on a tough tour to India, where they won only once in eight games, and appeared to concede that his time in charge was likely up in the aftermath of Wednesday night’s game.”It’s tough to say, stood here right now, and I don’t want to make any sort of emotional statements,” Buttler told . “But I think it’s fair to say that you’ve got to consider all possibilities.”I’ve enjoyed it [the captaincy]. I’ve seen lots of people say it doesn’t sit well with me, but I do enjoy it. I enjoy the challenge. Obviously, I don’t enjoy losing games of cricket and the results. And, of course, when they’re not going well, you do look at yourself in the mirror and say, ‘am I part of the problem or am I part of the solution?’ I think that’s what I’ve got to work out.”Buttler admitted at his post-match press conference that his future may not be in his own hands. “You [the press] are probably not the first people I’d discuss that with,” he said. “I’ll take a little bit of time to work out, personally, what I think is right, and obviously the guys at the top are in charge, and they’ll have their own views as well.2:16
Buttler on captaincy: Have to work up whether I’m part of the problem or solution
“I enjoy leading. Even before, when I wasn’t captain, I’d like to think of myself as a leader in the team. But results are tough, and they weigh heavy at times. Of course, you want to be leading a winning team, and we haven’t been that for a while now, so obviously that brings some difficult moments.”Harry Brook captained England in their ODI series against Australia in September and is their official vice-captain at the Champions Trophy, while Liam Livingstone (ODI) and Phil Salt (T20I) have also deputised in Buttler’s absence. After Saturday’s game against South Africa, England’s next white-ball fixtures are against West Indies in June.In Lahore, England fell just short in pursuit of the 326-run target set by Afghanistan despite Joe Root’s first ODI hundred since 2019. Buttler said that their failure to reach the target on a flat pitch was a reflection of the team’s wider struggles.”I think a confident team would’ve romped home tonight,” he said. “That’s the way sport goes sometimes. When you’ve been short of results in those 50-50 games, you probably find ways to lose as opposed to win when you’re a really confident, flying team.Buttler fell for 38 after an 83-run partnership with Joe Root•Getty Images”The last ten overs with the ball got away from us: they scored 113 runs in that phase. If we could have restricted them, that would’ve made the chase a lot easier. Joe Root played an unbelievable innings, full of class and character as usual, and we needed one of the top six to go longer with him.”Everyone is going to be very disappointed, and it is going to be raw… You’ve got to allow things like this to push you forward and drive you forward in your future – as an individual, as a team, and, as an England white-ball side, to get back to the level that we want to be at, competing in these tournaments and being here to win.”Buttler fell for 38 at a critical time in the run chase after an 83-run stand with Root, opening up an end for Afghanistan to target. He has been short of runs in 50-over cricket for some time, with 352 ODI runs at 22.00 since the start of the 2023 World Cup.”I think when I’m at my best, I’m one of the best players in the world,” he said. “I’m not performing at that level at the moment. I’ve felt in good touch, but I’m not getting the scores that I’ve been used to over time, so that’s frustrating.”
Former France captain Olivier Giroud has explained the key behind Ousmane Dembele’s Ballon d’Or success after admitting he never imagined his former France teammate would one day win the award. The Paris Saint-Germain forward capped off a remarkable season with 35 goals and a Champions League win, becoming the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner on Monday night.
From Barca flop to Ballon d’Or winner
Dembele’s career has had its ups and downs. At Barcelona, he struggled with injuries and inconsistency, leading many to doubt if he could ever live up to his price tag. But his move to PSG in 2023 proved decisive, as he regained form and fitness and became a key figure in their first-ever Champions League title win.
AdvertisementGiroud admits surprise after Dembele’s exceptional PSG season
Speaking to , Giroud admitted that while Dembele’s ability was never in question, he did not see him as a future Ballon d’Or winner during their time together with the French national team.
“Would I see him as a potential Ballon d'Or winner? It’s hard to say, but when I saw him every day in the French national team, no, I didn’t necessarily see it as a possibility,” the former France captain added.
“To win the Ballon d’Or, you have to have the talent, but also a good season. He has the talent, but he had to have a good season, at the right club, while winning everything. The Ballon d’Or always depends on collective successes.”
AFPDembele joins French greats with Ballon d’Or win
The PSG star became only the sixth Frenchman in history to lift the Ballon d’Or, following in the footsteps of Raymond Kopa, Michel Platini, Jean-Pierre Papin, Zinedine Zidane and Karim Benzema. In his career-best season, the Frenchman led his team to the Quintuple, scoring 35 goals and providing 16 assists.
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Getty ImagesWhat's next for Dembele?
Dembele sat out PSG’s rescheduled Ligue 1 clash with Marseille on Monday as he continues to recover from an injury picked up during the international break. The winger is targeting a return this weekend, with hopes of being available for the club against Auxerre on Saturday.
Christian Vieri has tipped Inter’s 20-year-old striker Francesco Pio Esposito to become “a great striker,” stressing that the pressure of playing for a club like Inter will accelerate his growth. Esposito has already made his mark in Serie A with his first goal and is now being asked to step up in the absence of Marcus Thuram.
Esposito tipped for greatness at Inter
Inter youngster Esposito has enjoyed a rapid rise this season, marking his breakthrough with a goal against Cagliari in just his third Serie A appearance. The forward has mostly featured as a substitute but has shown glimpses of his talent and potential. His form has already drawn praise from both his manager Cristian Chivu and former Italy striker Vieri.
AdvertisementGetty Images SportVieri backs Esposito to grow into Inter’s next great striker
Speaking at a press event, the Nerazzurri legend highlighted the unique challenge of playing for clubs like Inter, AC Milan or Juventus, but insisted that pressure is exactly what will help Esposito develop.
“When you’re at Inter, Milan, or Juventus, you’re always under pressure. Like at Barcelona or Real Madrid. Last year he was at Spezia, he didn’t have the pressure Inter have, but it’s better to play in Serie A and the Champions League. Then there are those who are ready at twenty, and he’s already physically ready: he can handle the strain at international level, where you have to be a beast," he said.
“He has no problems, he’s really hungry to improve, and I often talk to his teammates: they tell me he’s really hungry. He’s a great talent, he’s under pressure, but it’s better to have it: he plays for a great team and has started off great, he has everything it takes to become a great striker.”
Esposito’s breakthrough highlights Inter’s rising star in Serie A
The Italian striker's goal made him the fourth-youngest Italian to score for Inter in Serie A this century, underlining his promise. Already praised by his manager for his strong display against Sassuolo, the youngster has proven he can link up effectively with senior forwards like Lautaro Martinez. With his pace, energy, and ability to stretch defences, Esposito is positioning himself as an exciting long-term option for the Nerazzurri.
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Getty Images SportWhat’s next for Inter’s rising striker
Esposito recently featured against Slavia Prague in the Champions League and could be handed more opportunities with Marcus Thuram sidelined by injury. Inter face Cremonese next as they look to maintain momentum in Serie A, and all eyes will be on whether the young striker can earn a starting role alongside Martinez.
“We waited, waited until we thought it was necessary,” says Ruturaj Gaikwad of the decision
ESPNcricinfo staff09-Apr-20251:59
Should CSK have retired out Conway earlier?
Devon Conway became the second batter to be retired out in IPL 2025, after Tilak Varma in Mumbai Indians’ (MI) chase against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) earlier in the tournament. On Tuesday, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) pulled out Conway when he failed to get a move on with the asking rate against Punjab Kings (PBKS) rising. But, in the opinion of Piyush Chawla and Wasim Jaffer, CSK might have waited too long for the decision to have an effect on the result.”Conway is the kind of batter who is more technically strong and he doesn’t try to play that [many shots] in the air. You saw that in the middle overs also, when he was trying to hit a pull shot also, he was rolling his wrists like a proper technical batsman,” Chawla said on ESPNcricinfo’s TimeOut show. “That’s where they missed that point. When Shivam [Dube] was trying to hit those bit shots, Conway didn’t even try that. At one point, I felt he just wanted to take it deep. But if you want to take the game deep, you don’t want your [asking] rate to go out of hand.”Playing his second game of the season, Conway had a 61-run stand with Rachin Ravindra up top in CSK’s chase of PBKS’ 219, and after Ruturaj Gaikwad fell cheaply, added 89 more with Dube. That partnership came off just 51 balls, with Dube scoring at 155.55. But after Dube was gone, and with 69 needed off 25 balls, Conway made nine more runs off six balls. MS Dhoni was in the middle, and Ravindra Jadeja and Vijay Shankar walked out after Conway left, but CSK fell 18 short.Related
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“You expect that change [of gears] to happen at some point of time when you know the batsman is struggling,” Gaikwad said of the decision at the presentation ceremony. “Initially we thought that he was still striking the ball [well]. We waited, waited until we thought it was necessary and then we thought, yes, why not change.””If they wanted to do that, they could have done that at least two-three overs before that also,” Chawla said. “Because if he is not getting those big shots, you want somebody to come in and you want to give that kind of a sighter, at least two to three balls, and then got for it. By the time they retired him out it was too late, I felt.”Jaffer, however, felt that CSK didn’t have a choice at that point because they didn’t expect the big shots to come from Jadeja or Vijay Shankar either.”You could have retired him and you could have retired him a little early. But, again, Jadeja was the only one [left]. I don’t think they would have trusted [Vijay Shankar]… you needed one more batter there who could have done that [score quickly],” Jaffer said. “But, unfortunately, they didn’t have anybody. Even Jadeja for that matter, he has his restrictions [in terms of how fast he can score].”17:35
Bangar: Dhoni not playing for the crowd, he has a clear role at CSK
As it turned out, while Dhoni was quick in scoring 27 in 12 balls with three sixes, Jadeja and Vijay Shankar scored 11 runs in seven balls. But, to be fair to them, by the time they got out, it was perhaps too late to change anything.Stephen Fleming, the CSK coach, agreed that the innings had “lost some momentum” in the middle overs, but was pleased that they had crossed 200 for the first time this season.”We had an innings of substance at the top [from Conway]. In the IPL, you need your top three/four to get a majority of the runs. We haven’t been doing that,” Fleming said. “It was pleasing that we got off to a more solid start. We weren’t able to just maintain a high momentum through the middle, partly good bowling and maybe we were trying to push too hard. It’s something we will review.”But it’s not a bad chase. About three hits away. But we just lost a bit of momentum through the middle.”
With a 100% record to maintain, Liverpool travel to newly-promoted Burnley as the undeniable favourites and a certain Alexander Isak lying in wait to make his debut.
Burnley vs Liverpool team news
If Burnley are anything as resolute as they were against Manchester United before the international break, then a shock may still be on the cards. Alas, there is no denying that the prospect of squaring off against the Premier League champions is a different challenge entirely to the Red Devils these days.
Whilst there’s no guarantee that Scott Parker will field the same side as that cruel late defeat against Man United, injury doubts for Jordan Beyer and Connor Roberts, who may join Zeki Amdouni on the treatment table, could yet force his hand.
The Burnley boss told reporters when asked about the challenge that lies ahead in his pre-match press conference: “For us it comes down to control and courage.
“Control in how we play and react in every moment, and courage to step forward and back ourselves against the champions. We’ll need to be disciplined and composed, keep calm in certain moments. And we’ll need to be brave and believe in each other, which is something this squad has in abundance.”
As for the Premier League champions, the mood in their camp couldn’t be much better. New signing Isak is finally a Liverpool player and could be in contention to receive some minutes this weekend – although Arne Slot has urged fans to be patient as he gets up to speed.
The likes of Jeremie Frimpong and Joe Gomez could also complete their returns from injury, whilst the only fresh concern that the Reds have regards Curtis Jones.
The midfielder’s injury may see Dominik Szoboszlai return to his usual role in the middle of the park rather than right-back, where he thrived against Arsenal. And, in turn, Frimpong or Conor Bradley could get themselves an immediate start after the international break.
Liverpool (4-2-3-1): Alisson; Bradley; Van Dijk; Konate; Kerkez; Gravenberch; Szoboszlai; Salah; Wirtz; Gakpo; Ekitike
Burnley vs Liverpool recent results
Of course, the last time that these two sides met came in 2024 when Liverpool eased to a 3-1 victory at Anfield. Then, it was goals from the late Diogo Jota, Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez that saw the Reds wrap up all three points. This weekend, however, the Reds will need to rely on new stars to get the job done.
Liverpool 3-1 Burnley
Premier League
Burnley 0-2 Liverpool
Premier League
Burnley 0-1 Liverpool
Premier League
Liverpool 2-0 Burnley
Premier League
Burnley 0-3 Liverpool
Premier League
Without a defeat against the Clarets in their last five games, Liverpool last failed to beat Burnley in 2021 when their 68-game unbeaten run at Anfield came to an end in shocking fashion.
Away from head-to-head records, Burnley have endured an inconsistent start to their Premier League campaign – losing at Tottenham Hotspur, defeating Sunderland and then suffering defeat against Man United.
Liverpool, by some contrast, have won all three of their games but needed three late goals to do so. That, even if only small hope, should hand Burnley some encouragement.
Burnley vs Liverpool predictions and odds
As Premier League champions and the only side with a 100% record this season, Liverpool are undoubtedly the favourites against Burnley, with the odds reflecting that. The Reds are priced at 3/10 by the bookies, whilst the odds for Burnley to pick up a shock victory sit at 8/1 and a draw is priced at 9/2.
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Although Slot’s side have needed late goals to survive a number of scares this season, their visit to Turf Moor should see the return of their dominance and perhaps even the true arrival of Florian Wirtz.
It may have ultimately proved to be fleeting and flawed, although there was a time where it looked as if Manchester United were fashioning a new fearsome forward line under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
2019/20 – albeit while latterly impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic – was a particularly fruitful campaign for the Norwegian’s bright young attack, with the 4-0 thrashing of Chelsea on the opening day setting the tone for what was to come.
Reinstated as the number nine once again, amid Romelu Lukaku’s swift exit, Anthony Martial was in fine fettle leading the line, having got off the mark himself after bundling home against the Blues.
In all, the mercurial Frenchman reached career-best figures of 17 Premier League goals, a tally matched by teammate Marcus Rashford for his own joint-best top-flight record.
While Rashford – who bagged a brace on the opening weekend – would be hampered by injury in the latter stages of the campaign, it is noteworthy that nine of Martial’s league goals came in February onwards.
Wonder what could have happened to help spark that scoring spree….
Bruno Fernandes' connection with Martial & Rashford
Ah yes, the 2020 January transfer window marked the arrival of a certain Bruno Fernandes, with the Portuguese playmaker instantly hitting the ground running with a Man of the Match display on debut against Wolves.
As Luke Shaw stated later that year, Fernandes struck up a particularly “flowing” partnership with Martial straight off the bat, with the pair memorably combining for that inventive Manchester derby free-kick in March.
According to Transfermarkt, the pair enjoyed a joint goal participation of 14, with that the third highest of Fernandes’ career to date, behind ex-Sporting CP teammate Bas Dost (17), and the aforementioned Rashford (26).
To see the Englishman leading the way is perhaps no surprise, with his ability to run in behind and put a defence on the back foot, partnered with Fernandes’ creative brilliance, proving a simply deadly combination.
In 2020/21, for instance, five of Rashford’s goals were assisted by the one-time Udinese man, as per WhoScored. That figure rose to six in 2022/23, with only Erling Haaland and Manchester City’s chief provider, Kevin De Bruyne, enjoying a more fruitful marriage that season (8).
The way in which United’s two main men combined that season, in particular, was a joy to behold, with Fernandes speaking at the time about his ‘connection’ with the United academy graduate:
While both Rashford – now out on loan at Barcelona – and Martial have since departed, the opportunity remains for the 31-year-old to strike up a new bond under Ruben Amorim’s watch.
Why Fernandes may have found his new Fernandes & Martial
As time goes on, hopefully marquee summer signing Benjamin Sesko will begin to catch fire in his new surroundings, with six games having now come and gone without a goal for the £74m Slovenian.
Still just 22, the ex-RB Leipzig man has largely been restricted to cameos thus far, with chances so far at a premium.
There was a neat one-two with Fernandes in Saturday’s 2-1 win over Chelsea, although the United skipper uncharacteristically overhit his return pass, forcing Sesko wider than he would have liked with the goal in sight.
That connection will need to be struck – as it seemingly wasn’t with Sesko’s predecessor, Rasmus Hojlund – if United are to have a fruitful season, albeit with the early signs at least promising regarding Bryan Mbeumo.
Off the mark already with goals against both Grimsby and Burnley, the £65m signing from Brentford has undoubtedly been the shining light of 2025/26 so far for Amorim and co, putting in his “best game yet” against the Blues, as per journalist Samuel Luckhurst.
21/22
35
4
22/23
38
9
23/24
25
9
24/25
38
20
25/26
5
1
Direct, dynamic and remarkably unfazed, the 26-year-old – described as an “output machine” by content creator Ronaldo Brown – appears to have the best of Martial and Rashford rolled into one, if the early evidence is anything to go by.
As his composed, calm finish against the Clarets indicated, Mbeumo is truly an elite finisher, having notably scored 20 league goals last term in west London. The manner in which he can almost stroke the ball home does evoke memories of Martial at his best, with it worth re-watching some of the Frenchman’s early days, in particular.
That unerring ability to almost caress the ball into the corner hasn’t been evident among many United forwards of the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era, yet Martial – when fit and firing – was a master. As Mbeumo’s strike against Grimsby showcased, he too possesses that silky quality in front of goal.
Like Rashford too, however, the pacy left footer has the speed and power to stretch a defence, having expertly latched onto Sesko’s flick on in the build-up to Robert Sanchez’s red card at the weekend.
The early connection with Fernandes also looks promising, with the playmaker notably picking out his new teammate with a delightful, searching pass in the early knockings of the Burnley win.
Mbeumo pulled away from his man in Rashford style to get on the end of that chance, before expertly killing the ball dead, a la Martial, to cut inside and test Martin Dubravka from range.
It is, of course, still early days, yet the Cameroon international looks set to be central to everything good about United, both this season and beyond.
Having briefly struck gold with both Rashford and Martial, Fernandes may well have found a new, exciting partner-in-crime to dovetail with at the Theatre of Dreams. He no longer has to do it all on his own.
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