If Jose Mourinho doesn't like it, he can leave!' - Fenerbahce boss torn apart by Galatasaray star for 'smells bad' rant against Turkish football as outspoken Portuguese flirts with Premier League return

Galatasaray captain Fernando Muslera slammed Jose Mourinho for his rant against Turkish football and urged him to leave the Super Lig.

Galatasaray captain slams Mourinho

Portuguese coach ranted against Turkish football

Linked with a move to Newcastle and Everton

WHAT HAPPENED?

Mourinho, who moved to Turkey and took the Fenerbahce managerial role this summer, is already contemplating leaving the Turkish Super Lig. Earlier this month, the outspoken Portuguese coach slammed Turkish football and launched the infamous 'smells bad' rant for which he was handed a hefty fine and a ban.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The former Manchester United, Chelsea and Real Madrid manager's comment has ticked off Uruguay international and Galatasaray captain Fernando Muslera who has advised Mourinho to leave the country if he dislikes their football. The 61-year-old has been linked with a move back to the Premier League with Newcastle United and Everton reportedly interested in securing his services.

WHAT FERNANDO MUSLERA SAID

Speaking to Turkiye Today, the 38-year-old goalkeeper said, "The insults towards Turkish football and the fact that he is attacking some referees are things that bother me. This is the first time in 14 years that I feel obliged to make such a speech. I won 17 trophies in 14 years. If we consider my contribution, my constant aim is to advance Turkish football.

"If Mourinho, who came here four months ago, criticises Turkish football and doesn't like it, he can leave. Although nobody says anything, I think now someone can say something to him. We need to pay a little more attention to those who move Turkish football forward."

WHAT NEXT FOR JOSE MOURINHO?

For now, the veteran coach stays in Turkey and his team will be next seen in action this Friday as Fenerbahce are set to face Zenit St Petersburg in a friendly match during the international break. They return to competitive football on November 23 with a Super Lig clash against Kayserispor.

Erling Haaland is outperforming his xG but not as much as several other players in the Premier League

Asked to think of the best finisher in the Premier League and the answer would nearly always be Erling Haaland.

The Manchester City striker is having another prolific season and has already netted 11 times in the Premier League, including the opener as Pep Guardiola’s side suffered their fourth successive defeat in all competitions at Brighton at the weekend.

The Norway international is equally adept with his right foot, left foot and in the air and has been a large part of City’s successes over the past couple of seasons.

However, if you analyse the data for this term, you certainly cannot claim Haaland is among the top 10 most deadly players in the Premier League.

So, who ranked above him?

Using Opta data, available on www.theanalyst.com, we have compared players’ number of goals to their xG, not including penalties. 

The greater the difference, the better they have been at scoring the more difficult opportunities.

Surprisingly, Haaland comes in in 38th place. His 11 goals have come about from an xG of 10.30, meaning he has scored 0.7 goals more than expected from the chances he has had.

So, who makes up the top five in the Premier League?

5. Yoane Wissa – 2.53 Goals v xG

Wissa is one of the more underrated players in the Premier League but has emerged as a key part of Thomas Frank’s free-scoring Brentford side.

The DR Congo international netted twice in the Bees’ 3-2 win at home to Bournemouth on Saturday to take his tally for the season from open play to seven, achieved from an xG of just 4.47.

Wissa has now scored 15 non-penalty goals in the Premier League in 2024, second only to Haaland (20).

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4. Matheus Cunha – 2.64 Goals v xG

Wolves may be struggling but the Brazilian is having a stand-out season.

His superb long-range strike against Southampton on Saturday enabled Wolves to register their first Premier League win of 2024-25 and continued his impressive individual form.

Cunha has scored five non-penalty goals this season in the top flight, from an xG of 2.36.

3. Chris Wood – 3.28 Goals v xG

The first of two recognised number nines on the list, Wood has excelled in Nottingham Forest’s surprise start to the season.

The New Zealander has netted eight times, including one from the spot, with Nuno Espirito Santo’s men sitting in fifth heading into the international break.

Tho non-penalty goals have come from an xG of 3.72, perfectly demonstrating Wood’s poaching instincts.

2. Liam Delap – 3.6 Goals v xG

Eyebrows were raised when Ipswich handed Manchester City a fee rising to £20million for a player who scored just eight goals on loan at Championship side Hull City last season.

But Delap is already looking a shrewd investment with six goals in 11 games for the Tractor Boys, including what turned out to be the winner in their 2-1 victory at Tottenham on Sunday.

A bustling centre-forward, Delap’s six goals have come about from an xG of just 2.4.

1. Bryan Mbeumo – 3.7 Goals v xG

Mbeumo tops our list but, sometimes, statistics can be misleading!

The Brentford man, who can play anywhere across the front three, has been in blistering form this season with six non-penalty goals, and two from the spot, to take his tally to eight overall from an xG of just 2.3

Remarkable numbers, yes, and the Cameroonian is undoubtedly one of the Premier League’s best players at the minute.

But the most clinical this season? Statistically yes, but in reality, probably not and that’s due to his goal against Ipswich, a last-gasp winner that was undoubtedly a cross that drifted all the way in.

That ‘opportunity’ had an xG of 0.02, skewing the figures.

Top Contenders to Replace Pep Guardiola at Man City if the Catalan decides to move on

As Manchester City continues to dominate English football under the brilliant leadership of Pep Guardiola, fans and pundits are already speculating about the next manager to take the reins when the time comes for Pep to move on. The pressure of leading a world-class club like City demands a combination of tactical mastery, player management, and the ability to maintain the club’s success. While Guardiola’s departure is not imminent, here are four names that have emerged as possible successors: Xabi Alonso, Xavi, Michel, and Zinedine Zidane.

1. Xabi Alonso

Xabi Alonso has quickly become one of the most exciting young managerial talents in European football. After a successful playing career with clubs like Real Madrid, Liverpool, and Bayern Munich, Alonso has transitioned seamlessly into management. His tenure at Bayer Leverkusen has been impressive, with the team showing tactical discipline and a clear playing style under his guidance.

What makes Alonso a prime candidate for the Manchester City job is his footballing intelligence, understanding of Guardiola’s philosophy, and ability to inspire his players. Alonso’s calm demeanor, combined with his tactical acumen, makes him a natural successor to the meticulous Guardiola. Given his ties to both Real Madrid and Liverpool, Alonso also understands the demands of top-tier football and could handle the pressure of managing a club like City with ease.

2. Xavi Hernandez

Xavi Hernandez, former Barcelona manager, is another name that could potentially take over at Manchester City. Having been deeply influenced by Guardiola during his playing career, Xavi has shown that he has inherited many of his former mentor’s tactical philosophies. His just past managerial tenure at Barcelona showed him implement a style of play that mirrors the possession-based, high-pressing football Guardiola is known for although it did not work out well at the end.

Xavi’s understanding of City’s style of play and his vision for developing young talent aligns well with the club’s long-term goals. Though his former role at Barcelona has its challenges, his growing managerial reputation could make him a strong contender for the Manchester City job. With a wealth of experience in one of the most successful football clubs in the world, Xavi could be the one to continue Guardiola's legacy at Manchester City

3. Michel:

Michel, the current Girona Manager in La iga is another exciting prospective candidate for the Manchester City Job if Guardiola leaves. The Spaniard led Girona to Champions League place finish last season and although the team who is under Manchester City Group of clubs are struggling this season, Michel's managerial abilities have not gone unnoticed.

In another scenario, He is the prime candidate to take over from Guardiola due to City's connection with Girona but the Spaniard still has a long way to go to prove himself and his capabilities as a top level Manager.

4. Zinedine Zidane:

Zinedine Zidane’s name often comes up when discussions turn to potential managerial changes at top clubs. Having won three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles with Real Madrid, Zidane is no stranger to success on the biggest stages. His calm, charismatic presence in the dressing room, along with his ability to manage superstar players, makes him an ideal candidate for Manchester City.

While Zidane has been out of management since leaving Real Madrid in 2021, his track record speaks for itself. His ability to handle egos, navigate high-pressure situations, and deliver results would be invaluable at City. Zidane’s experience managing some of the best footballers in the world could make him the perfect fit for a squad filled with stars, including Kevin De Bruyne, Erling Haaland, and Jack Grealish.

Why These Managers?

Each of these managers brings something unique to the table, from Alonso’s emerging tactical nous, Xavi’s continuation of Guardiola's legacy, Michel’s adaptability, to Zidane’s winning mentality and vast experience at the top level. While it’s clear that Pep Guardiola has set a high bar at Manchester City, these four candidates offer an exciting future for the club.

What is your opinion?

Van Nistelrooy eyes permanent Manchester United role

Ruud van Nistelrooy

Interim Manchester United manager Ruud van Nistelrooy has expressed his desire to manage the club permanently in the future. However, the Dutchman remains focused on his current interim role and is set to return to his assistant coach duties once Ruben Amorim officially takes over on Monday.

In his short time as interim manager, Van Nistelrooy has overseen two wins and one draw. He will take charge for the final time on Sunday when United face Leicester in the Premier League, before Amorim steps in to assume control.

The 48-year-old, who won the Dutch Cup in his only season as PSV Eindhoven’s manager, has frequently stated that Manchester United is the only club where he would consider putting his managerial aspirations on hold to serve as an assistant. When asked about managing the club in the future, Van Nistelrooy said, “Yeah, of course. I thought this through well when I made the decision to come to United as an assistant manager. I knew this was a special opportunity, and I wanted to be part of the club’s journey in that capacity.”

Though Van Nistelrooy’s contract with United runs until 2026, there are uncertainties surrounding his future with Amorim set to bring in his own staff. Still, Van Nistelrooy remains determined to ensure a seamless transition. “I called it an important period because I think it was crucial to get through these four games as well as we could,” he explained. “I believe we’ve done well so far, and now we must build on that and deliver on Sunday, with a big game and massive three points to win.”

Although Sunday could mark his second farewell at Old Trafford, Van Nistelrooy is solely focused on ensuring the team is in the best possible shape before handing the baton to Amorim. “I don’t know if it will be very emotional. I take it pragmatically, but I am proud to have fulfilled this role. We’ll see how I feel on Sunday,” he concluded.

What Chelsea star Jadon Sancho is doing before Arsenal speaks volumes after injury update

Chelsea injury news as Jadon Sancho continues his work towards a return having missed the past three games

Jadon Sancho has been out for Chelsea with injury and illness

Jadon Sancho is continuing his attempts to recover from a surprise injury having not played for three matches. Although he was not available for last week's 1-1 draw to Manchester United due to loan rules, Sancho was not fit or well enough to feature anyway.

It has put a brief halt on what had been a sharp start to his life at Chelsea. Sancho assisted three times in his first three Premier League games after coming on to make quite the introduction at Bournemouth in mid-September. That earned him a place in Enzo Maresca's main XI.

However, he struggled to make an impact at home to Nottingham Forest and then away at Liverpool, with Pedro Neto impressing when called on from the bench and in Europe. Sancho has since been forced to sit out, with Mykhailo Mudryk preferred as the second half substitute on the left against Newcastle in the league two weeks ago as well.

As Sancho is on loan at Chelsea, he couldn't play against parent club United last week. He also missed the Carabao Cup defeat to Newcastle and hasn't been selected for Conference League fixtures either.

"He is recovering from [illness]," Maresca explained, touching on why the 24-year-old has been less visible in recent matches. "He had a knock in the session. He is out for tomorrow [Thursday, vs FC Noah], and we will see if he is available [for Arsenal] or after the international break."

Now, with Chelsea set to welcome Mikel Arteta and Arsenal to Stamford Bridge on Sunday, Sancho is working towards a return. Posting on his Instagram story on Saturday morning, he showed just what he was up to in a bid to get back to the pitch sooner rather than later.

In a short clip of him on a physio's bed, Sancho is seen with his left thigh being pressed in by several compression patches, working the muscles. With little so far being said of the problem picked up, it indicates a muscular issue.

Sancho's illness would appear to have worn off in recent days too. He was part of the supporting group of Chelsea players who attended the match against Noah on Thursday night. Sancho uploaded an image of himself watching on from the stands.

His next step will be to get back out onto the field, playing himself.

Jose Mourinho Identifies EPL club he will leave Fenerbahce to join

Fenerbahce's head coach, Jose Mourinho, is reportedly setting his sights on Newcastle United as a potential destination for his return to the Premier League, particularly if current manager Eddie Howe decides to part ways with the club.

According to Daily post, Mourinho, who has had an illustrious coaching career in England—including multiple tenures at Chelsea, a stint at Manchester United, and a spell at Tottenham—appears eager to embark on his fifth chapter in the English football league. His growing dissatisfaction with his current role in Turkey has prompted him to carefully monitor the situation at St. James' Park.

According to sources from The Guardian, Mourinho has reached out to intermediaries, expressing a desire to stay updated on the latest developments within the club. This reflects not only his ambition to return to the Premier League but also his belief that Newcastle could provide a fitting platform for his skills if circumstances change.

Eddie Howe, who has been at the helm of Newcastle for three years, faces an uncertain future despite his previous successes. Under his leadership, the club managed to qualify for the Champions League group stages last season. However, their current position—sitting 11th in the Premier League table—indicates a significant gap that must be bridged to reclaim their status among the elite clubs in Europe.

Given the unpredictability of managerial positions in football, especially at a club with as much potential as Newcastle, the situation remains fluid. Should Eddie Howe's tenure come to an end for any reason, Mourinho will be poised as a strong candidate to take the reins, bringing his wealth of experience and a proven track record in England's top division. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Tyneside to see how this narrative unfolds.

Ian Wright and Gary Neville make predictions for Chelsea vs Arsenal clash

Ian Wright has predicted a 2-1 win for Arsenal against Chelsea, emphasizing the importance of a victory for Mikel Arteta's team. Arsenal, currently in fifth place in the Premier League, are looking to bounce back from a disappointing run of results.

Facing the possibility of falling ten points behind leaders Liverpool, Arsenal will need to secure a win at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea, under the management of Enzo Maresca, have shown good form recently, but Arsenal could be boosted by the return of captain Martin Odegaard.

Despite injury concerns for some players, Arteta is confident in his team's ability to perform well against Chelsea. Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville predicts a 1-1 draw for the match, highlighting the competitiveness of the fixture.

After a positive performance against Inter Milan in the Champions League, Arteta believes that if Arsenal replicate that display, they have a good chance of defeating Chelsea. The manager expressed pride in his team's European performance and remains upbeat about their chances in the upcoming derby.

Barcelona See Veteran Star as Untouchable at the Club, Ready to Keep Him Until 2027

Barcelona has made it clear that veteran striker Robert Lewandowski is an indispensable asset to the team, with plans to extend his contract until 2027. According to Sportskeeda, the Polish international's phenomenal form this season has convinced the club's hierarchy to secure his services for an additional two years.

Lewandowski, 36, has been in sensational form, scoring 19 goals and providing two assists in just 16 appearances. His impressive performances have been instrumental in Barcelona's strong start to the season, and the club is eager to reward him with a contract extension.

The striker's current deal is set to expire in 2025, but Barcelona has the option to trigger a one-year extension if he plays half of their matches this season. However, the club is reportedly considering adding another year to the deal, keeping Lewandowski at the Camp Nou until 2027.

Lewandowski's willingness to reduce his wages has also been a significant factor in Barcelona's decision to extend his contract. The veteran striker has demonstrated his commitment to the club, and his desire to continue competing at the highest level.

The arrival of Hansi Flick as manager has been instrumental in Lewandowski's resurgence. The two previously worked together at Bayern Munich, and Flick's tactics have brought out the best in the Polish striker.

Barcelona's decision to keep Lewandowski until 2027 is a testament to his enduring quality and importance to the team. Despite his advancing age, Lewandowski remains one of the most clinical finishers in the world, and his experience will be invaluable in guiding the team's younger players.

The club is also aware of the need to lighten the load on Lewandowski, who will be nearing his 38th birthday by the time his contract expires. To address this, Barcelona is reportedly searching for complementary free agents who can support Lewandowski and share the goal-scoring burden.

As Lewandowski closes in on 100 Champions League goals, joining an elite club alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, his legacy at Barcelona continues to grow. With his contract extension imminent, Lewandowski will remain an integral part of Barcelona's plans for years to come.

Man United eyeing a transfer for Sporting star Geovany Quenda with £84m release clause

According to Manchester Evening News, Manchester United will begin a new era under Ruben Amorim after the international break, with the Portuguese manager likely to introduce changes to the team’s tactics and personnel.

Amorim prefers to use a three-man defense, a system that United has rarely employed in recent seasons, which could signal significant adjustments in the way the team lines up.

There may also be changes in player personnel, with Amorim potentially looking to bring in reinforcements from his former club, Sporting CP.

According to the Manchester Evening News, United is reportedly "tracking" Sporting winger Geovany Quenda.

The 17-year-old has already earned comparisons to Arsenal's Bukayo Saka, due to his remarkable talent and work ethic.

Quenda recently signed a new contract with Sporting, which runs until 2027, and the club has set his release clause at a substantial £84 million, reflecting their belief in his immense potential.

Sporting is aware that top clubs are keeping a close eye on his progress and have thus ensured that any potential suitor will have to meet the high release fee.

Quenda showcased his talent in Sporting’s 4-1 Champions League win over Manchester City, where he started as a right-wing back.

His performance was instrumental in securing the victory, as he won five out of seven duels, made two tackles, and created a significant chance.

He also provided an assist for Sporting’s equalizer, threading a perfectly weighted pass between two Manchester City defenders to set up Viktor Gyokeres, who sprinted past Ederson.

Since making his debut in August, Quenda has appeared 17 times this season. Although he is more inclined to attack, he has also demonstrated a strong work ethic in tracking back and helping his defense.

This two-way commitment would be a valuable asset to a team like United, which has struggled at the right-wing position despite heavy investments in Antony and Amad Diallo.

Signing Antony has been seen as a poor decision, and Diallo has yet to prove himself consistently at the top level.

Amorim may push the United board to pursue Quenda in the summer, but given the teenager's age and his £84 million release clause, it would be a significant gamble.

While Quenda remains raw and has much to prove, United might not be willing to meet such a high fee.

However, if Sporting were to lower their asking price, United could be open to negotiations.

MNU vs CHE: Chelsea Team News, Possible Lineup, And KickOff Time For Their EPL Game.

The West London based club Chelsea will be hoping to get an emphatic victory when they travel away to face Manchester United in their next EPL game on Sunday.

After their home victory over Newcastle United in their recent EPL match, the Chelsea tactician Enzo Maresca, will be heading into the crucial match hoping to get a good result in order to move higher on the league standings.

The Blues are anticipated to present a formidable lineup in preparation for their league encounter against Manchester United on Sunday.

In Attack, Cole Palmer who scored the winning goal is set to retain his place in the starting lineup and will be paired alongside Nicolas Jackson and Pedro Neto in attack.

In defense, the duo of Reece James and Malo Gusto are expected to operate as full backs while the duo of Wesley Fofana and Levi Colwill are set to start as center backs.

Chelsea’s possible starting line up against Manchester United;

Robert Sanches, Reece James, Wesley Fofana, Levi Colwill, Malo Gusto, Moises Caicedo, Romeo Lavia, Enzo Fernandez, Cole Palmer Nicolas Jackson, Christopher Nkunku and Pedro Neto.

Kick-Off Time:

The crucial match between Manchester United and Chelsea is set to kick-off at 5:30 PM (Nigerian Time)