All posts by z3u9t.icu

After what was a dire season for Manchester City, they ruined their chance to end it all on a high note on Saturday. Pep Guardiola’s side travelled to Wembley for the FA Cup final with Crystal Palace, but came out second best, much to the dismay of their manager come full time.

They will hope to right their wrongs just a few weeks on when the East Mancunian outfit travel to the United States of America for the Club World Cup, where they will compete for the competition for the first time in its 32-team format. Moroccan side Wydad AC, UAE outfit Al Ain FC, and Italian giants Juventus are their three group stage opponents.

One player who will play a huge role in any success over the next few weeks is Josko Gvardiol.

Gvardiol’s importance for City

There are not many players in the City squad whose form is as important to their success as Croatia international Gvardiol. The 23-year-old was described as a player who “does stuff very few can” by football analyst Umir, who also said the defender has been “brilliant” going forward this term.

There have been just four games in which Gvardiol has not appeared this term, further highlighting his importance to Guardiola’s side. In total, he has played 51 times across all competitions, including all but one in the Premier League.

One of the biggest benefits of the former RB Leipzig is his versatility. A centre-back by trade, he has featured more often than not at left-back for the Citizens this term, which has been important for Guardiola amid injuries and a lack of options.

The other thing that the 23-year-old offers to this City side is goals. He had found the back of the net six times this term, which has been bettered by just five players at City.

The fact that he is such a rich source of goals shows just how important the left-back is to Guardiola.

Interestingly, City are linked with a player who could join the club and become just as important to Guardiola as Gvardiol has this term.

Man City's search for a defender

If a report from Fabrizio Romano earlier this week is to be believed, then City are plotting a move for Newcastle United right-back Tino Livramento.

The 22-year-old is ‘under consideration’ at the Etihad Stadium, with City looking to sign a new right-back. A price tag is not clear at this time, but he cost the Magpies £40m including add-ons almost two years ago.

Described as a “superstar” by Newcastle content creator Kendall Rowan, Livramento has played an important role for Eddie Howe, in a side pushing for a second-place finish this season. That would see them leapfrog City in the Premier League.

The London-born right-back, who is a product of Chelsea’s academy, has played 44 games in all competitions this campaign for the Magpies. Perhaps one of the biggest worries for City is the fact that he has just one assist, which came in a 3-0 win away to Leicester City.

Like Gvardiol, Livramento is a versatile player. This term, he has featured at right-back, left-back and even as a wing-back for Howe’s side.

Admittedly, he has made 29 appearances on his favoured right side, but with another 12 coming on the left, it shows dependable versatility.

In fact, the similarities between the two players do not stop there. The underlying numbers on FBref highlight how alike they are, too. For example, the Newcastle star averages 0.78 key passes per 90 minutes, compared to 0.73 each game for Gvardiol.

Key passes

0.78

0.73

Passes into penalty area

0.88

0.58

Tackles and interceptions

2.53

2.7

Ball recoveries

5.98

3.84

Progressive carries

2.5

2.53

There is evidence to suggest that Livramento could be City’s best defensive signing since Gvardiol. Vitor Reis was one of two defensive signings in January, but he is unproven and has played just three first-team games.

Fellow winter addition Abdukodir Khusanov did well to bounce back from a nightmare start to his City career, following his error on debut against Chelsea, but is also largely unproven at Premier League level, despite glimpses of promise shown.

Matheus Nunes, a midfielder by trade, has been playing right-back this term but “doesn’t know how to defend”, according to Man City content creator Steven Mcinerney.

This could be a wonderful signing for City. There is no doubt about just how important Livramento can be under Guardiola, given his attacking capabilities and how reliable he is defensively. He could certainly be their best signing since Gvardiol, given the lack of experience or struggles those made since have experienced.

If he can replicate anywhere near the impact Gvardiol has had at the Etihad Stadium, this is a signing that City fans can surely get excited about.

Serie A club Atalanta are believed to have made contact with both an “excellent” Celtic player’s representatives and the Hoops themselves.

Rodgers promises busy summer at Celtic

The Hoops have enjoyed another triumphant season, winning the Scottish Premiership title and also having a chance to seal Scottish Cup glory in the final against Aberdeen on Saturday, as Brendan Rodgers looks to add to his trophy haul at Parkhead.

This isn’t a time for anyone at Celtic to rest on their laurels, however, with Rangers set to appoint a new manager this summer and looking to bridge the gap at the top, and Rodgers has outlined how he expects the summer to be a busy one.

“Yes, think so. Again, we have to look at and adapt to situations as well. We all know fine well, here there’s a player trading model, which means that we will probably get offers for some of our players in the summer. And if that happens, then we have to be flexible and be able to adapt to that. If I said that everyone now would be here, then you’d maybe only have a few, two to three players coming in of high quality, but we’ll just have to see.”

Chelsea midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall has been linked with a summer move to Celtic, being seen as a possible replacement for Arne Engels, who has been backed to seal a switch to Atalanta at the end of the season. Now, a new update has emerged regarding the Hoops man.

Club make contact with "excellent" Celtic player

According to TuttoAtalanta [via Sport Witness], Atalanta have made “significant contact” with Celtic ace Engels over a summer move to the club, as well as the Hoops themselves. That said, it is stated that the Scottish champions are proving to be a “tough nut to crack” when it comes to letting him go, but there is belief from last season’s Europa League winners that a deal can still be struck.

Selling Engels wouldn’t be ideal for Celtic, considering he is still just 21 years of age and has only spent one season at the club, not yet fully having the time to fully prove his worth.

The Belgian has scored nine goals and registered five assists in the Scottish Premiership this season – he also has one and three in the Champions League respectively – and Rodgers spoke positively about him earlier in the campaign.

“He’s really enjoying his time here. I’ve taken him out for some games just to let him see from the outside looking in and take that pressure away from him because it’s a big move and everything that comes with it. But he’s been excellent in training and he’s only going to get better and better.”

But ultimately, if Engels decides he wants a new challenge, it is pointless Celtic keeping hold of an unhappy player, with the manager well aware of the surgery required to compete in Europe next season.

Glasgow Rangers will need a new manager in the dugout at Ibrox when the 2025/26 campaign gets underway later this year, having relieved Philippe Clement of his duties in February.

Barry Ferguson came in to replace the Belgian head coach as an interim manager until the end of the season, and his side did beat Aberdeen 4-0 last time out in the league.

However, the former Rangers central midfielder has only won five of his 13 matches in charge of the club in all competitions, losing four of those games.

Ferguson’s most recent managerial experience before his current stint at Ibrox came at Alloa Athletic in the 2021/22 campaign, when he lost 17 of his 33 games at the helm.

These statistics do not suggest that the former Scotland international is the right man to lead the Light Blues back to glory in the Scottish Premiership moving forward, which is why he should not be a contender for the job.

It does appear as though Rangers are set to look externally for their new head coach this summer, as they have been linked with a move for Davide Ancelotti.

Why Davide Ancelotti could be exciting for Rangers

It was recently reported that the son of Carlo Ancelotti, who is currently part of his father’s coaching staff at Real Madrid, is closing in on the Rangers job.

The Light Blues were reported to be pushing to bring him to Ibrox to convince him to take his first role as a senior head coach, rather than going to join his dad when he becomes the Brazil manager later this year.

The Rangers-linked coach has worked with his father at Real Madrid, Everton, and Bayern Munich, and has been described as an influential figure behind the scenes.

Former Bayern midfielder Javi Martinez, as quoted by the BBC, hailed Davide’s influence on Carlo: “The evolution process never stops and it is more difficult to adapt for older coaches. Davide completes Carlo and helps him understand the evolution of football. Davide is incredible: prepared, serious, a great person, like his father.”

As you can see in the graphic above, he has learned from one of the best managers around, given the incredible number of trophies his father has won, and that illustrates why him being an influential figure on his coaching staff is a big positive ahead of a possible move to Rangers.

This is why, despite his lack of outright managerial experience, Ancelotti could be an exciting appointment for the Gers and a chance to get behind a new era at Ibrox, which could be kickstarted with an excellent signing.

Rangers make contact to sign English forward

According to The Herald, Rangers have made contact with Blackburn Rovers forward Tyrhys Dolan to remain informed on his situation ahead of the summer transfer window.

The report claims that the Gers want to keep tabs on the English attacker, who could become a free agent this summer if he does not extend his contract with the Championship side.

Transfer Focus

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

It reveals that Blackburn would value Dolan between £5m and £10m but they could lose him for a nominal compensation fee if he runs down his contract to sign for the Light Blues.

The report, however, adds that Premiership rivals Celtic are also monitoring the winger ahead of a possible swoop for his services in the summer window, which shows that there will be competition for the 23-year-old dynamo’s services.

This means that Rangers may have to act fast once it becomes clear that Dolan will be available to sign when his contract at Ewood Park expires at the end of June, as they will have to beat other teams to his signature.

The board should push to get a deal over the line for the Blackburn star because he could be an excellent signing to kick the Ancelotti era off with a bang, should a move to appoint the Real Madrid coach go through.

Why Rangers should sign Tyrhys Dolan

The Light Blues could kickstart the Ancelotti era in exciting fashion by signing Dolan because he is a promising young talent with the potential to make a big impact at the top end of the pitch in Scottish football.

At the age of 23, the Blackburn star would arrive with plenty of time left ahead of him to develop and improve as a player, which means that he could be a long-term addition to the side as well as having the quality to make an instant impact.

As you can see in the clip above, Dolan is also a player who has showcased his quality in the final third in the Championship for the English side this season.

The incredibly versatile attacker, who can play on the left, on the right, as an attacking midfielder, or as a striker, has shown that he has the potential to deliver goals and assists on a regular basis if put in the right environment.

Dolan has only averaged 38.1 touches per game in a Blackburn team that ranked 16th in the league for xG, with 51.6 xG in 46 matches, which shows that he was not getting loads of touches in a well-coached attacking side.

Vaclav Cerny, meanwhile, has delivered 12 goals and three assists with 50.7 touches per game for Rangers on the right flank in the Premiership this season.

Appearances

31

44

Touches per game

50.7

38.1

Shots

90

51

Goals

12

7

Conversion rate

13%

14%

Big chances created

6

7

Assists

3

6

As you can see in the table above, Dolan enjoyed a better conversion rate of shots to goals than Cerny has managed so far this season in the Premiership, and created more ‘big chances’ for his side with roughly 12 fewer touches per game on average.

These statistics suggest that the English star’s output at the top end of the pitch could soar if he was put in a Rangers team that gives him plenty of touches in the final third, with more chances to take shots and create chances as an exciting wide player.

Dolan, once hailed as “outstanding” by former boss John Eustace, would also provide an exciting celebration for supporters when he scores, as shown in the clip above.

In all seriousness, though, he could be the perfect first signing of the Ancelotti era as a superb young talent who has the quality and the potential to be a star at Ibrox, with the chance to be more influential in the final third as part of a more dominant and attacking team than he has been at Blackburn.

Rangers: 49ers plotting statement signing of "very talented" £4m Brazilian

The Gers’ prospective new owners have set their sights on a midfielder.

ByDominic Lund May 13, 2025

As Graham Potter looks towards the summer transfer window to turn the early days of his tenure around, West Ham United have reportedly joined the race to sign a £47m defender who kept Erling Haaland quiet this season.

Potter's West Ham struggles continue

From Julen Lopetegui’s disappointing few months to Potter’s current struggles, it has been a season to forget for the Hammers. When they decided to part ways with the Spaniard, there would have been plenty of hope that Potter, in his first return to management since leaving Chelsea, had the ability to get the true potential out of an impressive side on paper. That has so far proved anything but the case, however.

Games

15

Wins

3

Draws

8

Defeats

4

Whilst West Ham have had their injury struggles and January arrivals such as Evan Ferguson haven’t quite worked out, three wins in 15 games is a fairly inexcusable record for Potter and one that he simply must turn around next season.

After summer signing Niclas Fullkrug failed to hold back his criticism of his own side recently, Potter issued a critical response of his own, telling reporters: “I think he [Fullkrug] wears his heart on his sleeve.

“I would disagree with him in some things and agree with him in others. But he’s entitled to his opinion. As a senior player, we’ve had lots of honest conversations. And I think for me it’s better to have the conversations in private, not in public.”

Better than Calvert-Lewin: West Ham make contact over "phenomenal" £12m ace

West Ham appear to have their eye on Dominic Calvert-Lewin, yet might there be a better alternative out there?

ByJoe Nuttall May 1, 2025

As problems continue to arise, the former Brighton & Hove Albion desperately needs to mark his own stamp on his side in his first summer in charge and desperately needs to instil his style on a struggling squad at long last.

West Ham battling to sign Yann Bisseck

Already turning their attention towards the summer transfer window, those at the London Stadium have reportedly set their sights on a Champions League semi-finalist. According to Caught Offside, West Ham are now battling Manchester United to sign Yann Bisseck from Inter Milan, who will allow their defender to leave for around €55m (£47m) this summer.

The 24-year-old recently started for the Italian giants against Barcelona in a thrilling affair which ended in a 3-3 draw to make next week’s clash at the San Siro all the more important. It was earlier on in Inter Milan’s European journey that Bisseck truly impressed, though, as he helped to keep Manchester City’s Erling Haaland quiet in a 0-0 draw.

By the end of the 90, Haaland had been limited to just 0.33 expected goals, two touches in the Inter Milan box and just 14 touches overall. Bisseck, meanwhile, came away with four recoveries, a ground duel success rate of 75% and was not dribbled past once, as per Fotmob. If there were any doubts that he could perform on the big stage, they were put to bed that night, as he simply outmuscled the Norwegian superstar.

Dubbed “commanding” by analyst Ben Mattinson for performances like that one, Bisseck is exactly the type of player who could spearhead Potter’s West Ham turnaround this summer.

Chelsea are not short of attacking options in their current squad.

Enzo Maresca has an embarrassment of riches at his disposal in the forward areas, with the likes of Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke and Nicolas Jackson all key players at Stamford Bridge.

There is also a chance Jadon Sancho joins the club permanently this summer, with his buy clause activating over the weekend. He has made a real impression over the past few weeks, as has Tyrique George, who has broken into the first team from the academy, notably scoring his first top-flight goal last weekend at Craven Cottage.

Yet, the Blues want more in forward areas. It seems like they will look to sign a new winger in the 2025 summer window, and have been linked with someone who could further elevate their attacking options.

Chelsea's attacking shortlist this summer

With Jackson now on a run of 13 games without a goal it will come as no surprise that Chelsea are hoping to add a striker to their ranks this summer.

One name that stands out is Newcastle’s Alexander Isak while a cheaper alternative could be Ipswich Town striker, Liam Delap, according to reports.

Well, not just content with bolstering their central areas, they could also sign a winger from Barcelona.

Transfer Focus

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

One of the most exciting teams to watch this season has been Hansi Flick’s Barca side. Their front three has been dominant, with Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal two key players, alongside Raphinha.

Well, according to TBR Football, it is the Brazilian who Chelsea are interested in signing over the summer. They have reportedly been told there is a chance to sign him this summer, and are thought to be ‘huge admirers’ of the winger.

However, there will be competition for his signature if there is a chance the Blues can sign Raphinha. Premier League rivals Arsenal and Liverpool are also ‘being kept informed about his situation’. It is reported that intermediaries have told the three English clubs that an £80m offer could be enough.

Why Raphinha would be a good signing

It has been a sensational season for Raphinha in 2024/25. He has been the spearhead of a Barca attack that has dominated Europe. They had amassed 100 goals in just 32 games by February, and have now far exceeded that number.

As for the former Leeds star, he has an extraordinary 30 goals and 23 assists in 48 appearances so far this season. In La Liga, he’s notched up an impressive tally of 26 goal involvements in 30 appearances.

However, it is the Champions League where he has really thrived. The “unplayable” star, as Statman Dave called him, has 19 goals and assists this term, more than any other player, including a hat-trick against Flick’s former side, Bayern Munich.

Raphinha’s performances this season have been so good that Owen Hargreaves, former Manchester United midfielder, thinks he is a “revelation”. Hargreaves also said on TNT Sport that he thinks the Brazilian is “in the lead for the Ballon d’Or” at the end of the year.

The underlying stats via FBref from Raphinha’s incredible campaign show just how well he has played. For example, the former Leeds United star averages 1.11 goals and assists and 0.84 goal-creating actions per game. They rank him in the top 2% and 4% of attackers in Europe’s top five leagues, respectively.

Goals and assists

1.11

98th

Goals per shot on target

0.45

88th

Key passes

2.98

96th

Shot-creating actions

5.36

91st

Goal-creating actions

0.84

96th

Thus, should the Blues bring Raphinha to the club, there is every chance he could end up becoming their best attacker since Eden Hazard.

Has there ever been a better forward in Chelsea history than Hazard? Well, that comes down to personal preference, but former Blues player turned pundit Pat Nevin called him a “world-class” operator back in 2019. Since his exit, no wide player at Stamford Bridge has scored more than his 16-goal Premier League haul from 2018/19 and Raphinha is streets ahead of that already in Catalonia.

Hazard was certainly unbelievable in that famous Blue shirt, scoring 110 goals and assisting a further 85 in 310 appearances for the club.

A sensational dribbler, he could often be seen running rings around opposition defenders before bearing down on goal or finding a teammate, as the video shows.

If Raphinha could replicate what Hazard did at Stamford Bridge, he’d be an instant success. The quality is there, of that there is no doubt, and his pure goals and assist numbers are sensational this season.

It would be some coup for Chelsea, and if they could bring the Brazil international back to the Premier League, it would be a real statement signing ahead of 2025/26.

Shades of Hazard: Chelsea plotting move to sign £39m-rated "entertainer"

Chelsea are looking to add to their depth in attack

ByJoe Nuttall Apr 16, 2025

Chelsea are now willing to make a £20m offer for a “genius” attacker, but there could be competition for his signature from Manchester United, according to a report.

Blues set to bolster attacking options after Ipswich draw

The burden of scoring goals and creating chances has largely fallen on Cole Palmer this season, with the attacking midfielder amassing 21 goal contributions in all competitions, by far the highest number of any player in the squad.

It has been another impressive season for Palmer, but the overreliance on the England international means the Blues can struggle when he isn’t firing on all cylinders, having now lost four Premier League games in 2025, while also stumbling to a 2-2 draw against Ipswich Town.

As such, Enzo Maresca is keen to bolster his attacking options this summer, with a new winger of interest, and David Ornstein has revealed that Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Gittens is set to be one of the targets, having been on the shortlist since January.

Chelsea submit £30m bid for "extraordinary" maestro who's keen on PL move

The Blues have tested the waters with an opening bid for a midfielder.

ByDominic Lund Apr 13, 2025

The west Londoners have also entered the race for AC Milan star Rafael Leao, but the Portugal international will not come cheap, given that he has been valued at £150m by the Italian club in the past.

Consequently, it could make sense for Chelsea to pursue a cheaper alternative, and a report from Spain has now revealed they are willing to make a £20m bid for Lyon’s Rayan Cherki, with the attacking midfielder seriously impressing in Ligue 1 this season.

The £20m price tag is no issue for the Blues, who have been monitoring Cherki’s performances closely this season, but there could be competition for his signature, with Man United also willing to make an offer.

There is a belief the 21-year-old would be a great addition to Maresca’s squad, and previous reports have revealed Lyon could be willing to cash-in this summer, given that they need to raise funds.

"Genius" Cherki could be fantastic signing for Chelsea

The Frenchman’s performances this season indicate a £20m deal could be an absolute steal, having amassed an extraordinary 11 goals and 18 assists in 38 matches for Lyon, which places him in the top 1% of attacking midfielders for assists per 90 over the past year.

Statistic

Average per 90

Assists

0.64 (99th percentile)

Shot-creating actions

6.94 (99th percentile)

Progressive passes

9.27 (99th percentile)

Journalist Julien Laurens has been a long-term admirer of the Lyon star, having lauded him as a “genius” in the past, and his performances this season indicate he could be ready to make a move to one of Europe’s top clubs.

The signing of Cherki would go some way to providing support for Palmer, who largely carries the burden of creating chances at the moment, and the young Frenchman’s availability for an extremely low fee is an added bonus for Chelsea.

Arsenal have wasted no time in drawing up plans for the summer transfer window, looking to finally end their two-decade wait for a Premier League title.

Mikel Arteta has done a superb job of transforming the squad during his near five-year spell in charge, but more work needs to be done to take them to the summit of the division.

Viktor Gyokeres has emerged as a huge target for the upcoming window, with new sporting director Andrea Berta making an immediate impact in pursuing a move for his signature.

Given his goalscoring record, which has seen him score 86 times in his 93 outings in the last two seasons, it’s understandable that the Gunners are pursuing a striker to bolster their forward line.

Should he move to North London in the summer, he could be joined by another player who’s been a constant target, with a new update emerging on his potential move to the club.

Arsenal make contact to land £51m talent

According to Sun Sport, Arsenal’s director Berta has already been in contact with the representatives of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi ahead of a summer move to the Emirates.

It was reported in January that a deal was on the verge of being agreed for this upcoming window, but no news has emerged since – with this the latest update on any transfer.

The Spanish international has made 29 LaLiga appearances this campaign, featuring in all but one of their league outings, showcasing his importance and quality.

The report claims that the hierarchy are still “working hard” on a deal to land the 26-year-old this summer, with the £51m release clause not thought to be an issue.

Any move for Zubimendi could provide added quality to the middle of Arteta’s side, allowing one player to return to his former best after his recent slump in form.

Why Zubimendi could decide Odegaard at Arsenal

Midfielder Martin Odegaard has been a player so often tasked with providing the goods for Arsenal in attacking areas but ultimately has struggled to deliver in recent months.

The Norwegian had a long injury layoff with an ankle issue but hasn’t been the same player since his return – leading to huge amounts of criticism in the process.

He’s also featured in more of a deeper role, taking away his best qualities with his intricate passing able to create chances for attackers within the final third.

Zubimendi, who’s a defensive midfielder, could be able to sit in front of the backline should he move in the coming months, freeing up Odegaard to go and create carnage further up the field.

The Spaniard, who’s been labelled “superb” by the Spanish Football Podcast, has excelled out of possession, having the quality to be the ball-winning talent the side have been crying out for.

He’s won 1.3 tackles per 90 to date, along with 5.4 duels won – coming out on top of the latter on 60% of the occasions he’s entered a battle with an opposition player.

Games played

29

Goals & assists

3

Pass accuracy

85%

Tackles won

1.3

Duels won

5.4

Duel success rate

60%

Dribbles completed

70%

However, he’s also got the passing ability to aid Odegaard in higher areas, registering an 85% pass completion rate, along with a 70% dribble success rate.

Whilst the club would have to fork out a pretty penny to secure his signature this summer, it’s evident that Zubimendi would be a player who could certainly increase the club’s title credentials.

As for Odegaard, he’s been an influential player in various title battles, with Arteta needing him to return to top form if they are to go one better next season – with the Sociedad star having a huge say in his fortunes if a deal is completed.

Better than Trossard: Arsenal ace who won 14 duels is hitting "cult status"

He’s been one of the bright sparks at the Emirates in recent weeks.

ByAngus Sinclair Apr 6, 2025

Manchester City moved to within two points of Arsenal at the top of the Premier League, until they play on Wednesday night, with a thrilling 5-4 win over Fulham.

Supporters of their title rivals may have turned off the game when Phil Foden made it 3-0 before half-time, expecting a simple victory for Pep Guardiola’s side, but the Cityzens made hard work of their three points in the end.

Some questionable game management and defensive work from City almost led to them drawing the match, and there are several players who may not be too pleased with their own contributions to the result.

Ranking Man City's worst performers against Fulham

Whilst the likes of Erling Haaland, Tiijani Rijnders, and Phil Foden shone at Craven Cottage, some of Guardiola’s players failed to deliver quality displays on Tuesday night.

Gianluigi Donnarumma was one of those players. The Italy number one conceded four goals from five shots on target against him, letting in 1.95 more goals than expected, per Sofascore.

Full-back Matheus Nunes also failed to put in a convincing performance. The Portuguese defender was dribbled past twice, per Sofascore, and found defending the likes of Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, and Kevin a bit too difficult at times.

1

Bernardo Silva

2

Matheus Nunes

3

Gianluigi Donnarumma

4

Nico O’Reilly

5

Savinho

The same was true of Nico O’Reilly, who lost ten of his 15 duels and was dribbled past once, on the other flank, whilst at the other end of the pitch, Savinho struggled off the bench, wasting several chances to counter and put the game to bed late on.

It was Bernardo Silva, though, who was arguably the worst performer on the night for the Cityzens, which is why Guardiola should ruthlessly drop him from the side.

Why Pep Guardiola should drop Bernardo Silva

The Portuguese central midfielder should be put on the bench for the clash with Sunderland at The Etihad on Saturday after an underwhelming display against Fulham.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Commentating for Sky Sports, former Premier League striker Chris Sutton described Bernardo’s flicked clearance that fell for Samuel Chukwueze to score his first goal of the game as “careless”.

A few minutes after that comment, Sutton added that he could not understand why the Portugal international was still on the pitch because he “doesn’t have the legs” that he once did, and that Fulham had “run around” him.

Those comments from the Premier League title winner are backed up by the fact that Bernardo failed to complete three of his four attempted tackles on the night, per Sofascore, which shows that he was a yard off the pace when attempting to challenge Fulham players.

Bernardo also struggled to get up the pitch to influence matters in the final third, with no key passes or ‘big chances’ created from 69 touches of the ball, albeit that was not as important on a night where City scored five goals by the 54th minute.

Minutes

90

90

Tackles won

3/5

1/4

Duels won

9/13

7/11

Ball recoveries

3

2

Pass accuracy

83%

86%

Key passes

1

0

As you can see in the table above, the experienced midfielder was even worse than Nunes, who won more tackles, more duels, and made more ball recoveries, whilst also making more key passes.

Bernardo did well in moments towards the end of the match with his ability to retain possession and calm the play down, but it was partially down to his struggles out of possession and defensively that City were in a position where they had to manage the game in the final minutes.

The left-footed star is, of course, still an important player for Guardiola, having started nine league games this season, but the clash with the Black Cats is one that he should be dropped for after this disappointing showing.

Guardiola could provide Rico Lewis with a chance to play in the middle of the park or play Lewis at right-back and bring Nunes back into his natural role in midfield to see if he can improve on his own underwhelming performance.

Man City now favourites to sign "incredible" £88m star, Pep's captivated by him

City have taken the lead in the race for a Premier League star, with Pep Guardiola a big fan.

ByDominic Lund Dec 2, 2025

A game on the bench for Bernardo could, also, keep him fresh ahead of the big match against Real Madrid in the Champions League next week, which is another reason why this could be a good move by the Spanish head coach at the weekend.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has been handed a major North London derby boost after an injury update from N5.

Arteta’s side welcome Tottenham to the Emirates on Sunday seeking to extend their remarkable dominance over their rivals.

The Gunners boast a formidable recent record in this fixture, even achieving something they had never previously done in the Premier League era earlier this year.

For the very first time since the division’s inception, Arsenal won three straight top-flight games against Tottenham, with victories in January (2-1) and September last year (1-0) following their 3-2 triumph in April 2024. The January win was enough for Arsenal to prolong their unbeaten run against Tottenham to six matches, having also done the double over Spurs in the 2022-23 campaign.

Since 1995, Arsenal have won 30 games to Tottenham’s 16 with 24 draws, highlighting their indisputable superiority in the modern era.

That being said, Spurs have been handed some encouragement by Sunderland’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal just before the international break — which ended their unbelievable winning run and proved they can in fact be broken down.

Arsenal 3-0 Nottingham Forest

Athletic Bilbao 0-2 Arsenal

Arsenal 1-1 Man City

Port Vale 0-2 Arsenal

Newcastle 1-2 Arsenal

Arsenal 2-0 Olympiacos

Arsenal 2-0 West Ham

Fulham 0-1 Arsenal

Arsenal 4-0 Atlético Madrid

Arsenal 1-0 Crystal Palace

Arsenal 2-0 Brighton

Burnley 0-2 Arsenal

Slavia Prague 0-3 Arsenal

Sunderland 2-2 Arsenal

Some injury concerns also cloud Arsenal’s preparations.

Gabriel Magalhaes was injured during Brazil’s 2-0 win over Senegal, since returning to London Colney, and it is likely that the centre-back misses at least a short stretch of games, including the North London Derby. The star centre-back is apparently a major doubt to face Tottenham this weekend, and his absence would be a real blow given his undoubted importance to the side.

The injury list extends beyond Gabriel too.

Captain Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz, Noni Madueke, Viktor Gyokeres and Gabriel Martinelli are all racing to be in contention to face Spurs after their own lay-offs, but the game comes too soon for Gabriel Jesus, who will be last to return to the field as he continues full recovery from an ACL injury (Simon Collings).

Arteta was also dealt a scare when Riccardo Calafiori nursed a hip problem on international duty with Italy, causing him to miss both of their World Cup qualifiers against Moldova and Norway.

Mikel Arteta gifted Riccardo Calafiori boost with Arsenal star set to play against Tottenham

Following his return to London for assessments and checks on the problem, reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano has now confirmed some positive news about the left-back.

Indeed, it is believed that Calafiori is set to be available for Arsenal’s clash against Tottenham this weekend, with no injury or overload.

Having the former Bologna star ready for selection is a major boost for Arteta.

He has been one of Arsenal’s standout performers this season, establishing himself as the undisputed starter at left-back ahead of Myles Lewis-Skelly. The £42 million defender has transformed his fortunes after an injury-plagued debut campaign last season, when he was in and out of the starting 11 and struggled to build any consistent momentum.

Calafiori has completely turned around, becoming an absolutely crucial part of Arteta’s system, offering both defensive solidity and attacking threat from the left flank, chipping in with one goal and two assists from 11 games this season.

With Gabriel very likely to miss the derby, losing Calafiori, who’s been called one of their players of the season so far by Ray Parlour, would have left Arsenal dangerously exposed defensively.

However, the 23-year-old will instead return to the side for what is set to be a mouth-watering clash in the capital.

As has been widely reported, Columbus Crew manager Wilfried Nancy is now the overwhelming favourite to become the new Celtic manager.

The Frenchman has held talks with the Celtic board over the weekend, as the Scottish champions continue to search for a replacement for Brendan Rodgers, who surprisingly resigned last month.

Nancy has won MLS Cup and Leagues Cup in charge of the Crew, also leading the Black and Gold to a first-ever CONCACAF Champions Cup Final, and could be appointed Celtic manager sooner rather than later, after Columbus’ season came to an end in the first round of the MLS play-offs, ousted by cross-state rivals FC Cincinnati.

Across all 136 matches in charge of Columbus, as well as 79 as CF Montréal head coach beforehand, Nancy has always deployed a back three, usually a 3-4-2-1 shape, so it’ll be interesting to see if he sticks with that, in a Rúben Amorim-esque fashion, or is more adaptable, given the depleted squad at his disposal.

Currently seven points adrift Scottish Premiership leaders Hearts, irrespective of who the new manager is, expect Celtic to be busy in the January transfer window, so here is the dream XI they could build should Nancy take over.

1 GK – Kasper Schmeichel

Despite the fact he’s now 39 years old, Kasper Schmeichel remains a consistent performer in the Celtic goal.

To date, the Danish veteran has kept 33 clean sheets in 67 appearances for the Celts, conceding only 63 goals, seven of these shutouts coming in 11 Premiership outings so far this year.

On top of this, according to Squawka, he boasts a save percentage of 75.35% in the Premiership across this season and last, which does drop slightly to 69.57% when looking at the Europa League, albeit only Jari De Busser of Go Ahead Eagles and Ștefan Târnovanu of Steaua București have made more than his 16 saves in this season’s league phase.

Thus, with Schmeichel’s contract expiring next summer, following the World Cup, who knows what his future holds but, for now, Nancy can rely on the Great Dane.

2 RB – Alistair Johnston

Right now, Alistair Johnston is one of numerous key Celtic players sidelined due to injury, seeing just 26 minutes of action since suffering a serious hamstring tear against Kairat in mid-August, but, once fit again, will be a key figure in Nancy’s side, as he was in Québec three years ago.

3 CB – Cameron Carter-Vickers

Another major absentee right now is Cameron Carter-Vickers.

In the same match Johnston reaggravated his hamstring issue, the 2-1 Europa League victory over Sturm Graz, Carter-Vickers suffered a ruptured achilles tendon which will see him sidelined for around six months, all but ending his hopes of representing the United States on home soil next summer.

Since arriving under Ange Postecoglou in the summer of 2021, Carter-Vickers has been one of the first names on the team sheet at Parkhead, racking up 172 appearances in hoops, in the opinion of many, Celtic’s best centre-back since Virgil van Dijk, so Nancy will surely make him a central pillar, even if he’ll have to wait to do so.

4 CB – Axel Disasi: new signing

In the absence of Carter-Vickers, Liam Scales, Auston Trusty and Jahmai Simpson-Pusey​​​​​​​ are Celtic’s current central defensive options, hence why they’re expected to target a reinforcement or two in January.

Well, according to reports, Celtic have been offered the chance to sign a trio of Chelsea exiles this winter, namely Raheem Sterling, Deivid Washington and, the one likely to be of the most interest, Alex Disasi.

The France international signed for the Blues for £38.5m from Monaco in the summer of 2023, putting pen to paper on a six-year contract, but has been completely frozen out by Enzo Maresca.

After spending the second half of last season on loan at Aston Villa, Disasi did not find a new club before the summer transfer window slammed shut, thereby in the proverbial wilderness at Cobham, so could be available on loan in January, and the arrival of his compatriot Nancy could tempt him north of the border.

5 LB – Kieran Tierney

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Back at the very start of the summer transfer window, when Celtic supporters were optimistic and loving life, Kieran Tierney’s return was celebrated like a title triumph.

Since rejoining, the left-back’s minutes have been carefully managed, albeit a long-term injury suffered by deputy Marcelo Saracchi means that won’t be quite so straightforward.

Nevertheless, regardless of whether Nancy wants to play a back three or a four, he’ll surely relish working with Tierney.

6 CDM – Callum McGregor

Celtic managers come and go but no matter who is in charge, Callum McGregor is an omnipresent figure.

The 32-year-old has now made 538 appearances in hoops, winning 24 major honours, looking to add to his haul in December when he will lead the side out in the League Cup Final against St Mirren, having scored this thunderbolt against Rangers in the semis.

McGregor’s in-possession quality, off-the-ball work-rate and leadership skills will be invaluable for any incoming manager, so his name will continue to be written in permanent marker on the team sheet.

7 CAM – Benjamin Nygren

While many of Celtic’s summer signings have been underwhelming, Benjamin Nygren has been very impressive.

Many believed the Swede had been signed to replace Nicolas Kühn on the right-wing, but instead he has established himself as a first-choice member of the midfield trio, scoring six times already, including this winner against Sturm Graz, securing the Celts’ sole Europa League victory to date.

The 24-year-old then increased his stock further this weekend, bagging his third goal for Sweden as they were beaten by Switzerland at Stade de Genève. Thus, Nancy, or any other manager, will surely be impressed by what he’s seen.

8 CAM – Reo Hatate

There are plenty of candidates to complete Celtic’s midfield trio, with Arne Engels, Paulo Bernardo and Luke McCowan among those vying for this spot, but Reo Hatate is still the Celts’ best option.

Since arriving in January 2022, the Japanese midfield maestro has scored 29 goals and registered 29 assists for the club, including this thunderous strike at Pittodrie in August.

Hatate’s form has been a bit up and down in recent times, but his quality remains undeniable, so he’ll be hoping to get back to his best under Nancy.

9 RW – Jota

​​​​​​​ We’ve already mentioned Carter-Vickers and Johnston, but the other Celtic star on the sidelines long-term is Jota.

Similar to Tierney, Jota returned to Celtic to a huge amount of fanfare in January, but suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury at Tannadice in April, so is expected to return around Christmas time, which will be a timely mid-season boost.

The Portuguese winger remains the Celts’ joint-record sale, moving to Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia for £25m two years ago, but back in Glasgow, he will look to further enhance his reputation among the fan base.

10 LW – Diego Rossi: new signing

According to a report by Give Me Sport, Daizen Maeda will push to leave Celtic in January, having been denied the opportunity to depart during the summer, looking to cement his spot in Hajime Moriyasu’s Japan squad ahead of the World Cup; numerous Premier League clubs are reportedly interested.

Maeda would leave a huge void, but could Nancy replace him with a player he knows rather well?

Having starred at LAFC before an unsuccessful stint at Fenerbahçe, Nancy brought forward Diego Rossi to Columbus Crew, worth every penny of the $6.63m transfer fee paid, considering the Uruguayan international scored 45 goals in 101 games for the Black and Gold, including 16 in MLS last season.

Now, according to the Daily Record, he is top of Nancy’s shopping list, should he move to Glasgow.

A diminutive, versatile forward, Rossi has a similar profile to Maeda and has just a year to go on his contract in Columbus, so everything suggests he would be a shrewd addition. That said, they may have to pay a pretty penny considering he is worth £7.5m, as per Transfermarkt.