Craig Burley has expressed concerns about Manuel Akanji’s form for Manchester City, citing his recent mistakes, including one that led to Lois Openda’s goal in a 3-2 victory over RB Leipzig. Despite Pep Guardiola praising Akanji’s recent performances, Burley highlights a worrying trend, stating that Akanji has been making similar mistakes as he did during his time at Dortmund. Burley acknowledges that Akanji’s struggles aren’t isolated, as other defensive players like Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, Kyle Walker, and Nathan Ake have also had off games this season. For instance, Dias was too hasty in denying Openda’s second goal, and…
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Arsenal star Bukayo Saka expressed discontent with Mikel Arteta’s choice to substitute him in the second half, despite the team’s impressive 6-0 victory against RC Lens, securing advancement in the Champions League. The Gunners showcased their depth as all six goals originated from different players, dispelling concerns about overreliance on a single goal-scorer. Saka, who contributed with a goal, admitted his desire to play the full 90 minutes. In a post-match interview with TNT Sports, he stated, “I wanted to play 90 minutes if I’m going to be honest.” This revelation raised questions about Arteta’s decision-making, especially considering Saka’s…
Stan Collymore, acknowledging Erik ten Hag’s precarious position as the second-favorite to be sacked in the Premier League, asserts that Ten Hag’s tenure is reaching its end. He puts forward Brighton’s Robert De Zerbi as a viable replacement, believing De Zerbi can breathe new life into the underperforming squad and bring a robust managerial presence. Collymore emphasizes De Zerbi’s capacity to demand high standards and envisions him restoring the team to play in the classic “Manchester United way.” Additionally, he raises the prospect of Manchester United exploring discussions with Unai Emery’s representatives, anticipating Emery’s potential availability if Aston Villa…
The Reds’ defender earned the title of player of the match from Sky Sports after securing a tie with a powerful 20-yard shot in the second half. Despite slipping to third place in the standings, many believed Jurgen Klopp’s squad had gained a valuable point against a potential title rival. Alex Alexander-Arnold’s goal celebration, marked by a “shushing” gesture to the City crowd, raised eyebrows. When questioned post-game, his only explanation was a cryptic “funny.” The Sun, however, speculated that the FA might scrutinize the Liverpool defender for admitting premeditation in front of the opposing fans, a violation that…
Manchester United has faced a challenging start to their season, sitting in sixth place in the Premier League and grappling with potential elimination from the Champions League, having already been ousted from the EFL Cup. In response, head coach Erik ten Hag is strategically looking to bolster the squad with four key signings in the upcoming January transfer window. The areas targeted for reinforcement include two midfield positions (a number six and an eight), a center-back, and a striker. The practicality of securing these acquisitions in January, a traditionally difficult period for significant player movements, poses a challenge. Many…
Chelsea is reportedly showing keen interest in Max Kilman, the 26-year-old captain of Wolverhampton Wanderers, according to journalist Simon Phillips. Kilman has established himself as a reliable defender in the Premier League, with his 6ft 4in frame and left-footed playmaking abilities. Phillips revealed that Chelsea’s internal discussions about signing Kilman have resurfaced, highlighting the club’s appreciation for his expertise and leadership. Despite Kilman’s defensive prowess, some argue that Chelsea should prioritize strengthening their striking options instead of focusing on the defensive line. While the club already boasts quality center-halves, there are uncertainties about the ideal defensive partnership under Blues…
Chelsea has emerged as the frontrunner to secure the services of Napoli’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia in a potential £87 million deal. Despite facing competition from football giants like Manchester City and Real Madrid, recent reports suggest that Chelsea is leading the race for the talented winger. Calcio Mercato indicates that Kvaratskhelia might command a hefty transfer fee of approximately £87 million if he decides to part ways with Napoli. Despite a successful season with the Italian club, Chelsea’s keen interest in the player reveals a broader strategy. The club is not only eyeing Kvaratskhelia but also has aspirations to acquire…
Football pundit Michael Bridges has expressed his frustration with Manchester City player Jack Grealish, claiming that watching him play “irritates the hell” out of him. On The Optus Sport Football Podcast, Bridges discussed the challenges a striker might face when playing alongside Grealish, emphasizing the winger’s tendency to go back and pass the ball to the left-back instead of creating goal-scoring opportunities. However, Pep Guardiola offered a contrasting perspective, praising Grealish’s recent terrific form. The arrival of winger Jeremy Doku at the Etihad Stadium has brought attention to the differences in playing style between Grealish and Doku. While Grealish…
Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand believes that Arsenal’s Declan Rice, acquired for £105 million from West Ham over the summer, is undervalued by the fans. According to Ferdinand on The 2 Robbies Podcast, Rice’s recent performance against Brentford went unnoticed despite his impactful display. Robbie Earle, another pundit, claimed that the 24-year-old has transformed the Arsenal dressing room and is worth double the transfer fee paid for him. While eyebrows were initially raised when Arsenal broke the British transfer record to sign Rice, Earle suggests that his current value is £210 million. Despite Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Brentford, where…
Pep Guardiola conveyed his dissatisfaction to Manchester City players, labeling the defensive lapses against Chelsea and RB Leipzig as abnormal. Despite a stronger defensive display against Liverpool, City found themselves 2-0 down at halftime against Leipzig before a second-half comeback secured a 3-2 victory. Lois Openda exploited defensive vulnerabilities, scoring both goals on swift breakaways. Guardiola acknowledged the anomaly of conceding four goals against Chelsea, stressing the need for improvement compared to their solid defensive performance last season. Reflecting on the Liverpool game, Guardiola praised the team’s choices against fast players but highlighted unnecessary nervousness leading to Ruben Dias’…