Arsenal’s Path to Silverware: Palace in Quarters, Newcastle and Inter Loom

Arsenal powered through to the EFL Cup quarterfinals with a decisive 3-0 win over Preston North End, thrilling their supporters with a confident display.

Young midfielder Ethan Nwaneri stole the spotlight with a spectacular curling strike, adding to Gabriel Jesus’s opener, marking Jesus’s first goal since January.

Kai Havertz came off the bench to seal the win, setting up a tantalising home clash against Crystal Palace in mid-December.

Arsenal's focus now turns to a gruelling three-game stretch beginning November 2, when they face a resurgent Newcastle United in the Premier League’s early kickoff.

Newcastle come into this match with confidence after dispatching Chelsea 2-0 in their own EFL Cup fixture. Arsenal will need to start strong to overcome the home side’s momentum.

Just days after Newcastle, Arsenal head to Italy for a high-stakes Champions League group-stage match against Inter Milan. Victory is essential, but Inter’s form and home crowd promise a challenging test.

The difficult run concludes with a London derby at Stamford Bridge, where Chelsea, sitting just one point behind Arsenal in the league standings, awaits.

With title ambitions on the line, Arsenal will be aiming to close the gap on the leaders while keeping their city rivals at bay.

Ruben Amorim has 4-word answer for if he will be Man Utd boss in time for Chelsea match.

Speculation surrounding Sporting Lisbon coach Rúben Amorim's future intensified Tuesday night after his team’s 3-1 victory over CD Nacional in the Portuguese League Cup quarterfinals at Estádio José Alvalade. Following reports linking him with a move to Manchester United, Amorim fielded a barrage of questions from journalists, but he remained noncommittal about his next steps.

Speaking after the game, Amorim commented on his future by saying, “Nobody knows if this was my farewell match, or if there will be a farewell match.” When asked directly if he would be in the dugout at Old Trafford for United’s upcoming match against Chelsea, he responded, “I will be here.” However, in a telling moment, he added, “I can’t promise anything.”

Amorim continued, saying, “I don’t know. What I know is that I will be at training tomorrow and I will prepare for the game against Estrela da Amadora.” His statement left fans wondering if his tenure at Sporting might be coming to an end.

According to the released report by FootballFlame on Wednesday shows that earlier in the day, Sporting released an official statement to the Lisbon Stock Exchange, confirming that Manchester United has expressed interest in triggering Amorim’s €10 million ($10.8 million) release clause. United, currently searching for a replacement for Erik ten Hag—who was dismissed after the team fell to 14th place in the Premier League—has reportedly set its sights on the Portuguese manager.

Rúben Amorim, who took the helm at Sporting in 2020, has quickly become one of Europe’s most promising coaches. Under his leadership, Sporting won the Portuguese league title in 2021 and again last season. Currently, Sporting leads the league with a flawless record, winning all nine games so far this season.

“We have to wait a little bit more to explain everything I need to explain. It will be very clear,” Amorim said, suggesting that an announcement might be imminent.

At 39, Amorim has already made a significant mark on European football. Before his tenure at Sporting, he was linked to major clubs including West Ham and was reportedly a contender to succeed Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool. As a former Portugal midfielder who spent much of his playing career at Benfica, Amorim’s roots run deep in Portuguese football, but his potential move to Old Trafford could mark the start of a new chapter on an even bigger stage.

Meet The Most Valuable Players To Leave Chelsea

Only 6 players have ever left Chelsea with a market value of €50m or more as per Transfermarkt. Interestingly, 4 of them left for La Liga clubs. Who are these top-value stars?

The most valuable player that has left Chelsea is Eden Hazard. This Belgian was valued at €150m when he left the London club for Real Madrid in the summer of 2019. It is worthy of note that Los Blancos paid a fee of €120.8m to secure his signature. Unfortunately, the winger's value began to plummet after the move. By the time retired 4 years later he was worth a paltry €5m. The next player on this list is Thibaut Courtois who is from Belgium like Hazard. This goalkeeper had a value of €65m when he left the Blues in August 2018. 

Hazard in action for the Blues

The third man in this category is Mason Mount who left the 2-time Champions League winners ahead of the 2023/24 season. The attacking midfielder, who was worth €60m at the time, moved to Manchester United in the deal. However, he has only scored once for the Red Devils since he made the move. His poor outputs have led to decline in value. Mount is followed by Kai Havertz, a German attacker. This Germany international had a value of €55m before he join Arsenal last season. After an impressive term at with the Gunners, this 25-year-old footballer is now valued at €75m. In fact, only one striker is currently more valuable than the 2021/22 Champions League winner.

Kai Havertz in the colours of Chelsea

Diego Costa and Conor Gallagher are the next two players in this category. These men were worth €60m each when the moved from Chelsea. The forner left in the winter of 2018 while the latter made his move in August, 2024. Coincidentally, both of them left the Blues to join Atlético Madrid. 

“Send this Osimhen back” – Former Besiktas forward cries out after Galatasaray win

Victor Osimhen has notched four goals and provided 2 assists in his five domestic league appearances for Galatasaray

Former Besiktas forward Batuhan Karadeniz has delivered a scathing assessment of Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen following Galatasaray’s 2-1 victory over Besiktas, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Nigerian attacker joined Galatasaray on a season-long loan from Napoli during the summer transfer window and has made an immediate impact since his arrival.

Karadeniz, speaking to Turkish outlet SuperHaber, shared his thoughts on Osimhen’s playing style and influence, suggesting that the Napoli star’s presence in the league could be considered unfair competition, given his relentless energy and ability to dominate on the field.

The former forward seemed frustrated by Osimhen’s versatility and stamina, noting his involvement in both defensive and offensive plays, which Karadeniz believes disrupts the league’s balance.

According to the former Trabzonspor forward, Osimhen’s tenacity on the pitch has made him a standout, with an impact that appears overwhelming to his competitors.

“What kind of a player is this? I have never seen such a player! Send him back, whoever is taking him, Osimhen has become a scourge to the Super League,” Karadeniz exclaimed, as quoted by SuperHaber.

Osimhen has scored four goals and provided two assists in five domestic league appearances for Galatasaray, including a powerful 67th-minute header to secure Okan Buruk’s men their fourth straight victory this season.

NEW vs CHE: Chelsea’s Strongest Lineups That Could Face Newcastle United In the Carabao Cup

Chelsea aims to avoid defeat in their midweek match against Newcastle United at St. James' Park, with hopes of securing a crucial win to advance to the next round of the Carabao Cup. Given their solid away record against Newcastle, the Blues are favored for a victory.

Head coach Enzo Maresca is expected to field a strong lineup for this important clash. Maresca may opt for either of two formations to strengthen Chelsea’s chances:

In a possible 3-4-2-1 formation, Filip Jorgensen could start as goalkeeper, with Levi Colwill, Benoit Badiashile, and Tosin Adarabioyo in central defense. Marc Cucurella and Axel Disasi might serve as wing-backs, Kieran Dewsbury-Hall and Enzo Fernandez as central midfielders, while Christopher Nkunku and Joao Felix support Nicolas Jackson upfront.

Alternatively, Maresca might go with a 4-3-3 setup, featuring Robert Sanchez as the goalkeeper, Benoit Badiashile and Tosin Adarabioyo as center-backs, with Marc Cucurella and Reece James as full-backs. Renato Viega and Romeo Lavia could operate as defensive midfielders, Cole Palmer as a playmaker, and Pedro Neto and Jadon Sancho as wingers, with Joao Felix leading the attack.

"I Don't Think He's What United Need Right Now" - Evra Makes Feelings Clear About Bruno Fernandes

Manchester United legend Patrice Evra has expressed his concerns about captain Bruno Fernandes, questioning his leadership and discipline, according to Sportskeeda. Evra's comments come after Fernandes led the Red Devils to a disappointing 2-1 loss against West Ham United.

Evra, speaking on Rio Ferdinand's YouTube channel, stated, "I love Bruno, but something I have to say about Bruno, he has no discipline. I don't know where Bruno is playing." He emphasized Fernandes' inability to control the game, comparing him unfavorably to Paul Scholes.

Evra wants Fernandes to be more than just a talented player, urging him to take charge and dictate the tempo. "Be the leader, control the tempo of the game... That's what I want from Bruno."

Former French international Emmanuel Petit also criticized Fernandes, labeling him "not captain material" and citing his poor performance against West Ham.

With Manchester United struggling in 14th place, Evra's and Petit's comments highlight the need for Fernandes to improve his leadership and performance.

Interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy faces the daunting task of revitalizing the team, and Fernandes' response will be crucial.

I had my staff all ready’ – Ruud van Nistelrooy’s admission before accepting Man Utd job

Ruud van Nistelrooy was part of Erik ten Hag's coaching staff before the Dutchman was sacked by Manchester United on Monday.

Ruud van Nistelrooy had a coaching team primed for his next move before his shock return to Old Trafford (Image: Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)

Ruud van Nistelrooy admitted he'd assembled a coaching team in preparation for a new management role prior to rejoining Manchester United as a coach. The Dutchman is United's new interim manager after Erik ten Hag was dismissed on Monday, in the wake of the team's 2-1 loss to West Ham over the weekend.

The defeat leaves the Red Devils languishing in 14th in the Premier League, with a single victory in their last eight matches across all competitions. Van Nistelrooy has now been given temporary control until a permanent replacement is found, after initially joining the coaching staff under Ten Hag. The 48-year-old is already a United legend, having scored 150 goals for the club during his playing career, and made his return to Old Trafford as a coach in June.

The Premier League winner was part of a restructured coaching team, with his fellow countryman Rene Hake joining Ten Hag's backroom staff, taking over from the departing Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy. The move was unexpected for Van Nistelrooy, who clinched the 2023 KNVB Cup as PSV Eindhoven manager before stepping down.

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In an interview with his ex-team-mate Rio Ferdinand last month, the Dutchman confessed he was on the brink of a managerial comeback before receiving an unexpected call from Ten Hag to return to United.

"It's 100% the right decision," Van Nistelrooy told TNT Sports regarding his decision to return to United in the summer. "I felt a strong feeling that I want to help build United little by little back to where we feel and know where the club should be.

"I was on the managerial track. I managed PSV an unbelievable experience and I was in talks with clubs to manage, and I love it. I had my staff all ready, and then I had a phone call. I was like, 'Jeez'. I never thought of it as a possibility.

"Erik called me. I said I had to think about it, but I immediately felt, 'Wow'. I started to love the idea. Especially the big picture where it's a new start with the new ownership and leadership. A phase where you start to rebuild and be a part of it."

Van Nistelrooy is now United's interim boss (Image: Getty)

Van Nistelrooy's role in Ten Hag's team saw him oversee training sessions and be responsible for opposition and post-match meetings alongside Hake and ex-teammate Darren Fletcher. Given United's dismal league performance last season, Van Nistelrooy's presence has led some to speculate that he could be in line to succeed Ten Hag.

According to sources from the Netherlands reported by the Daily Star, the former striker's debut as interim manager will come in Wednesday's clash with Leicester City in the Carabao Cup. However, reports suggest that Van Nistelrooy may hesitate to accept the managerial position at United on a permanent basis due to concerns it might undermine his relationship with Ten Hag.

When speaking with Ferdinand, Van Nistelrooy opened up about his ambitions at United, as he said: "I just want to contribute to where the club should be and, little by little, bring it there," he said in September."I hope when they reach it, it will be soon. I want to contribute. I feel a strong feeling that I want to do that."

Chelsea can no longer ignore Andrey Santos as summer transfer decision vindicated

Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos is showing manager Enzo Maresca just exactly how good he can be with an impressive goal tally while on loan at Ligue 1 side Strasbourg

Andrey Santos is catching the eye for Strasbourg once again after joining the French side on loan

Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos is proving he's good enough to be involved in the first team next season during an impressive loan spell at Strasbourg.

The 20-year-old moved to Stamford Bridge from Brazilian side Vasco De Gama last year and has drawn comparisons to compatriot and former Aston Villa player Douglas Luiz. He was the latest in a long list of exciting young players brought in by Chelsea, and loan spells were always going to be his pathway to development.

Transitioning from the Brazilian league to Europe has been difficult for players in the past, but Santos seems to have hit the ground running since joining Strasbourg back in February. He was initially sent on loan to Nottingham Forest, but after only making two appearances in five months, he was recalled and sent to France.

After a productive end to last season, his loan was extended by a further year, and he's featured in eight of Strasbourg's opening nine games, scoring a formidable five goals. Competition for places in Enzo Maresca's Chelsea side is high, and the Italian has been brutal in cutting several star names from his plans, with both Raheem Sterling and Conor Gallagher departing in the summer.

However, Santos has huge potential, and his performances are making him impossible to ignore as he stakes a claim to be involved in the squad next season. Given how deep he lines up for the French side - playing in a box-to-box role rather than a 10 - scoring a brace in Sunday's victory over Nantes was something special.

He will be tasked with displacing Moises Caicedo, Romeo Lavia, or Enzo Fernandez at Stamford Bridge though, which is easier said than done. Either way, he's a player Chelsea fans should be excited about for the future.

Newcastle 'do not think it's right' to talk about Chelsea deal after 'creative' PSR move failed

Newcastle United could have had 'more freedom' last summer if it came off

Tosin Adarabioyo

Newcastle United tried to be 'creative' with free agents last summer - but Eddie Howe did not think it was right to talk about the club's pursuit of Tosin Adarabioyo ahead of facing his Chelsea side.

Newcastle signed Lloyd Kelly on a free and Howe's team also made a move for fellow defender Adarabioyo back in June. Securing these free transfers so early in the window could have enabled Newcastle to focus on other areas in the transfer market that needed strengthening, such as the right wing, but Adarabioyo ended up joining Chelsea.

Newcastle ultimately spent a lengthy period attempting to broker a deal with Crystal Palace for another centre-back, Marc Guehi, but the black-and-whites stopped formally bidding for the England international several weeks before the window shut because of the Eagles' eye-watering demands for a player with less than two years left on his contract. Newcastle finished the 'most difficult' summer of Howe's career in profit, but could things have been different if the Magpies signed Adarabioyo?

"I don't think it's that simple, but we were exploring a couple of free transfer deals that we feel could have certainly given us a bit more freedom," Howe told reporters before the trip to Stamford Bridge. "When you're in our position, with PSR being very tight, you have to be creative.

"Your first look can't necessarily be the big financial signings and the big outlay of transfer fees and wages because you know there are future problems ahead and you're going to have to be smart and navigate your way through them. We were looking at the free transfer market and Lloyd Kelly was one that we feel was really smart business. I don't think it's right for me to talk about other individual targets, but, certainly, that's something we did explore."

Champions League: UEFA bans two referees until June 2025

UEFA have banned Bartosz Frankowski and Tomasz Musial from refereeing, for bringing the game into disrepute.

The two Polish officials went on a drunken bender before a Champions League match between Rangers and Dynamo Kyev in Poland in August.

UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body has now suspended both Frankowski and Musial from refereeing until June 30.

After Frankowski and Musial were arrested for trying to steal a road sign in the early hours of the morning, UEFA had to appoint Tomasz Kwiatkowski and Pawel Malec as replacements to work on VAR for the…