“Good character” – Ex-AC Milan star praises Victor Osimhen for leading Batshuayi to honour late fan

Former AC Milan defender Ümit Davala has heaped praise on Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen for his kind gesture during Galatasaray SK's match against Bodrumspor, according to Soccernet. Osimhen, who recently equalled Segun Odegbami's long-standing goal record for Nigeria, led teammate Michy Batshuayi to a banner honoring the late Yiğit Kurt, a 9-year-old Galatasaray fan who tragically died while traveling to support the team in a Europa League match against Tottenham.

Davala, a Galatasaray legend, was impressed by Osimhen's sportsmanship and character, saying: "Osimhen directed Batshuayi to the banner of the late Yiğit Kurt when he scored the goal. His footballing skills are okay, but his personality and humanity made me very happy. Galatasaray has really acquired a very good character."

The banner, displayed during the match at the Bodrum Stadium, was a poignant tribute to Yiğit Kurt, who had been a dedicated Galatasaray fan. Osimhen's gesture, leading Batshuayi to the banner after scoring the winning goal, was a touching moment that resonated deeply with the fans and Davala.

"Osimhen's action was a beautiful gesture, and it shows that he is not only a talented footballer but also a kind and compassionate person," Davala added. "It's not every day that you see a player take the time to honor a young fan who has passed away. Osimhen's character shines through in moments like these."

Osimhen's goal, assisted by Dries Mertens, secured a 1-0 victory for Galatasaray, but it was his post-match gesture that stole the headlines. The Nigerian forward has been in impressive form this season, and his goal record for Nigeria has made him a national hero.

Man City XI vs Feyenoord: Predicted lineup, confirmed team news and injuries for Champions League game today

Pep Guardiola may make changes as Manchester City look to turn things around when they play Feyenoord in the Champions League tonight.

City have now lost five games in a row across all competitions for the first time since 2006, culminating with a humbling 4-0 home loss to Tottenham at the weekend.

They also shipped four in their previous Champions League outing, as Sporting Lisbon thumped them in Portugal, and City will need to refocus to avoid another damaging defeat in this new league phase.

Asked if he will change his approach for the visit of the Dutch side, Guardiola told reporters: "What should I change? If I had changed in my first season when I was asked to change, we would not have won six Premier Leagues in seven years.

Injured players have to come back to their best form, players need rest, one good result can change our mind

Pep Guardiola

"Now I'm not going to change. We are big believers in the process and the fundamentals we have to do. Injured players have to come back to their best form, players who have played a lot of minutes because of the injuries need rest, one good result can change our mind."

There has been little improvement on the injury front for City, though Kevin De Bruyne came off the bench against Spurs and should start in midweek. Jeremy Doku could also come in after returning to training on Monday alongside Ruben Dias, which may see Savinho make way.

Nathan Ake is also pushing for a start, with John Stones most likely to make way, and Matheus Nunes could come in for Rico Lewis, who has struggled in midfield. City remain without the likes of Mateo Kovacic, Oscar Bobb and Rodri.

Predicted Man City XI: Ederson; Walker, Akanji, Ake, Gvardiol; Nunes, Gundogan; Doku, De Bruyne, Grealish; Haaland

Doubts: Doku, Dias

Injured: Rodri, Bobb, Kovacic

Venue: Etihad Stadium

Time and date: 8pm GMT tonight on Tuesday November 26, 2024

TV channel and live stream: Amazon Prime

EPL: Table, Results, Topscorers, Top Assists, and Top Cleansheets Lists After Matchday 12

The Premier League Matchday 12 has finally wrapped up after several entertaining matches were played in the competition. Topsides and underdogs did really well to put up their best performances on the pitch to secure maximum points from their respective matches.

Let's briefly review some of the matches played in the Premier League matchday 12.

Arsenal vs Nottingham Forest.

Arsenal regained their winning mentality in the competition when they battled Nottingham Forest at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners had a delightful performance in the match as they convincingly defeated Nottingham Forest 3-0 thanks to goals from Bukayo Saka, Thomas Partey, and Ethan Nwaneri.

Leicester City vs Chelsea.

Chelsea bagged an important victory away from home against Leicester City. The Blues had an amazing performance on the pitch which got them a narrow 2-1 win over Leicester thanks to strikes from Nicolas Jackson and Enzo Fernandez.

Ipswich Town vs Manchester United.

Ruben Amorim's first game in charge of Manchester United didn't go as planned when they took on Ipswich Town at the Portman Road Stadium. The Red Devils didn't have their best performance on the pitch as they played a disappointing 1-1 draw with Ipswich Town courtesy of goals from Omar Hutchinson and Marcus Rashford.

Premier League Matchday 12 Results.

Let's take a look at the major statistics in the competition this season.

Topscorers List

Top Assists Providers.

Top Cleansheets List.

League Standings.

Raya warns Arsenal team-mates about one Sporting player

Arsenal goalkeeper, David Raya, has warned his team-mates that Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres is a “top player in form”.

Raya will be looking to shut out Gyokeres when both sides face each other in the Champions League on Tuesday.

The Swede hitman has become one of Europe’s most prolific players after scoring 24 goals in 17 matches this season

“We know his strengths, how he runs a lot in behind and scores a lot in one v. one and he is a top player in form,” Raya said ahead of the game.

“We are going to try and keep him very, very quiet. Don’t give him any chances. We have to step up defensively. Hopefully we can do a great job and keep a clean sheet.”

Liverpool Plot Outstanding Double Signing Of Prem Star And Arsenal Target

Liverpool has made Milos Kerkez and Martin Zubimendi its main targets for 2025 and may make a move as early as January.

Under new manager Arne Slot, Liverpool has been unrelenting in their pursuit of the Premier League championship.

They are assessing the team and determining where they need to make improvements in order to take advantage of the club’s exceptional situation and there is a genuine chance that they will win the Premier League in the Dutchman’s first season as manager.

In order to keep their championship charge, they are attempting to add additional depth and are keeping an eye on two important positions for the January window.

The team wants to increase the number of players in two key positions: full-back, particularly left-back, and another central midfielder, reports Team Talk.

The Anfield team has been keeping a close eye on a number of alternatives and is a huge fan of Milos Kerkez. Many elite teams, including Manchester United, are interested in the Bournemouth player, but Liverpool has seen him as a player who can succeed Robertson.

To support players like Ryan Gravenberch, who has turned into a vital member of the team, a midfielder is also desired.

As was previously reported, Liverpool is keen to add some more talent and wants to sign Martin Zubimendi.

Chelsea consider signing Premier League icon son instead of Arsenal target

According to Metro, Chelsea are considering a move for Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap after reportedly cooling their interest in Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, who is also a target for Arsenal.

The Blues had targeted a new striker last summer and even sent a delegation to Naples in an attempt to bring Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen to Stamford Bridge. However, the deal for Osimhen fell through on transfer deadline day. Despite the setback, Chelsea’s season under manager Enzo Maresca has not suffered due to the failure to sign a new goalscorer.

Chelsea’s season, which many had predicted would be a difficult one, has instead been marked by impressive performances. The club has been one of the Premier League’s most exciting teams, losing only two of their first 12 games and climbing to third place in the table. The previously criticized Nicolas Jackson has found form in front of goal, scoring seven goals in 13 appearances, signaling his potential to be Chelsea's long-term striker.

In spite of Jackson’s recent success, Chelsea is still linked with numerous attacking options, and the latest player to emerge as a target is Delap. The 21-year-old, who is the son of former Stoke City midfielder Rory, joined Ipswich from Manchester City in a £20m move and has since scored six goals in 11 Premier League matches. Delap had been highly regarded by coaches at City but left in search of regular first-team football after making just six appearances over four years at the Etihad. His departure included a buy-back clause in his contract, but Chelsea is reportedly keen on acquiring him, as he is rated “exceptionally highly” by the club’s transfer department.

Despite Ipswich’s difficult start to the season, with only one win since their return to the Premier League, Delap’s individual performances have impressed. His all-round play, work rate, and ability to score goals have caught the attention of rival clubs, including Chelsea, who are seeking younger alternatives to established stars like Osimhen. Although Chelsea may revisit their interest in Osimhen in the coming months, Delap remains a key target as the club looks to strengthen its attacking options.

Under Todd Boehly’s ownership, Chelsea's transfer policy has often been the subject of criticism, but the club’s recent form has suggested that their long-term vision might be paying off. Chelsea currently sits above London rivals Arsenal and just one point behind Manchester City in the Premier League, showing signs of a title challenge after a dismal period in the previous season.

Osimhen, who has been one of the most sought-after strikers in European football, is not the only high-profile forward Chelsea has pursued. They have also been linked with Isak, the Swedish international who has impressed since joining Newcastle from Real Sociedad in 2022. Isak has scored 40 goals in 78 appearances for the Magpies and has been a key figure in Newcastle's rise under Eddie Howe. His strong performances have not only attracted the attention of Chelsea but also caught the eye of Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta, who is looking to bolster his attacking options.

However, despite Chelsea’s interest, they have reportedly cooled their pursuit of Isak. Newcastle remains confident that the striker is happy at St James' Park and settled at the club, dampening any potential transfer rumors for the time being. Chelsea, meanwhile, is focusing on securing a younger forward in Delap, who is seen as a long-term prospect capable of making a significant impact.

Delap’s performance against Manchester United on Sunday, where he failed to add to his goal tally but played a dominant role in helping Ipswich secure a point, only solidified his reputation. After the match, former Premier League player Danny Murphy praised Delap’s potential, describing him as the "obvious long-term successor" to England captain Harry Kane. “He has got a lot of qualities,” Murphy said on Match of the Day.

“I have seen him quite a lot this season and I would probably go as far as to say he is the obvious long-term successor to [Harry] Kane.

I think he is the best young English striker out there.

I know he has got a lot to learn and wisdom comes with experience and game time in this league, but he has got all the attributes to be a top international player.

I just don’t see a weakness for him.

He has scored enough goals in a struggling side really, but if he gets a lot of chances he will score more.

He has just got that lovely balance between physical and technical [ability] and rarely do you get both. He is a super talent.”

In addition to Delap’s goal-scoring ability, his overall technical skills and physicality have made him a highly sought-after prospect.

His performance at Ipswich has demonstrated his ability to adapt to the Premier League, and should Chelsea complete a move for him, he could be a key part of their attacking setup in the coming years.

Chelsea’s pursuit of Delap highlights their focus on securing young, talented players with potential, and his performances this season suggest he could be a star in the making for both club and country.

Man City vs Spurs: Will the Etihad Witness Redemption or Another Upset?

According to report by Daily post news, The stage is set for one of the most anticipated Premier League fixtures of the weekend as Manchester City hosts Tottenham Hotspur at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday evening.

The match, scheduled to kick off at 6:30 pm, will be the final Premier League game of the day. Both teams head into the match looking to bounce back after recent defeats in the league. Manchester City suffered a 2-1 loss to Brighton, while Tottenham fell 2-1 at home to Ipswich Town.

The two sides last met in October during the Carabao Cup, where Tottenham emerged victorious with a 2-1 win in the round of 16. Manchester City will be keen to close the five-point gap between them and Premier League leaders Liverpool when they face Spurs this weekend.

City manager Pep Guardiola will also be aiming to avoid a fifth consecutive defeat. The club has lost its last four matches across all competitions, including defeats to Brighton, Sporting Lisbon, Bournemouth, and Tottenham. Guardiola has confirmed that both Mateo Kovacic and Ruben Dias will miss Saturday's match due to injury.

A victory against Tottenham would reduce Manchester City's deficit to Liverpool to just two points ahead of the Reds' clash with Southampton on Sunday.

Tottenham, currently in 10th place with 16 points from 11 matches, will also be determined to avoid another consecutive loss after their defeat to Ipswich before the international break. Manager Ange Postecoglou will be without key defenders Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven for the trip to City. Romero is still recovering from an injury sustained in Tottenham’s 4-1 win over Aston Villa earlier this month, while Van de Ven is back in training after a hamstring injury but won't be rushed back into action.

A win for Spurs could lift them from 10th position on the Premier League table. Tottenham have already defeated Manchester City in the Carabao Cup this season, and they will be hoping for a repeat performance on Saturday evening.

Chelsea considering signing these two as Osimhen’s replacements

Chelsea are already planning to make some new signings for their manager Enzo Maresca ahead of the January transfer window.

The recent reports disclosed that the Blues are no longer confident about signing Victor Osimhen, who is currently on loan with Galatasaray.

According to the reports, the Nigerian star is likely to remain in the Turkey club for the rest of the season and there are also reports them making attempts to sign him permanently.

With this, the Blues’ chances of signing the Napoli striker is low and are said to be searching for alternatives, says journalist Simon Phillips.

The Blues now have their eyes on other replacements across Europe.

The centre-forwards the Blues are considering include Brighton & Hove Albion’s Evan Ferguson and Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap.

While Nicolas Jackson has improved at Stamford Bridge under Maresca this season, there are concerns about Christopher Nkunku’s future at the club, and signing a new No. 9 is on the Blues agenda.

We will have to wait to see who the Blues will submit a bid for between Delap and Ferguson.

Meanwhile, Chelsea will return to action this weekend when they play against Leicester City in the Premier League.

Ruben Amorim defends Manchester United squad as he prepares for his first game in charge

Ruben Amorim has publicly defended his Manchester United squad, including winger Antony, as he prepares for his first game in charge against Ipswich Town.

The new head coach, who succeeded Erik ten Hag after his dismissal earlier this season, expressed his faith in the team and his vision to elevate their performance in the league.

At just 39 years old, Amorim brings a wealth of experience, having enjoyed significant success with Sporting CP. His tenure there was marked by the implementation of a 3-4-3 formation that led to two league titles over a four-and-a-half-year period. Now, he aims to inspire a revival at Manchester United.

As the January transfer window approaches, discussions are heating up regarding potential new signings, while also focusing on departures. The club's financial situation may limit its spending, with additional funds potentially generated from player sales.

According to Footballtransfers, United's squad has been facing considerable scrutiny due to their erratic performances, with Antony, in particular, feeling the pressure after not meeting expectations associated with his hefty price tag.

There have even been murmurs suggesting that some players have attempted to influence managerial changes when their discontent with training methods arises.

In light of the criticism, Amorim stated, “I understand that there are doubts surrounding these players, but I have confidence in them. While it may seem impossible to some, I see potential. They are willing to embrace new strategies and are committed to putting in the hard work. Until they demonstrate otherwise, I will continue to believe in their capabilities."

When asked about the players' confidence levels under Ten Hag, Amorim acknowledged, “It’s clear that their faith has wavered, especially when results don't go their way. Doubts creep in when players aren't winning matches. You can see their confidence ebbing away during warm-ups or as they approach the pitch.”

He emphasized the need for support, noting, “The players are equipped to handle the challenges of the Premier League. They might struggle in the first half of a match but can turn things around after the break. It’s crucial they rediscover that winning mindset.”

Amorim also elaborated on his coaching philosophy, asserting, “As the coach, I have a clear direction; I’m all in on my approach. I firmly believe in our style of play. The players will come to share that belief. We're not considering alternate strategies.”

He hinted at some tactical adjustments for the upcoming match, explaining, “We may not see significant changes in the starting lineup, but there will be noticeable differences in gameplay and positioning. That’s where the real shifts will occur.”

With the new coach at the helm, supporters are keenly watching to see how Amorim's vision unfolds on the pitch.

EPL: Manchester United, Eriksen to Part Ways End of Season

Manchester United and Danish midfielder Christian Eriksen are reportedly set to part ways when the current season concludes.

According to a post by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on his X handle on Monday, there are no ongoing discussions about extending Eriksen’s contract. Romano added that the opinion of new manager Rúben Amorim will also factor into the decision, but the expectation remains that Eriksen will leave the club.

“No negotiations taking place over a new deal, while Rúben Amorim’s opinion will also be considered, but Eriksen’s expected to leave,” the post stated.

The 32-year-old joined Manchester United as a free agent in 2022, signing a three-year contract. His time at the club has been marked by key contributions, but it now seems his tenure at Old Trafford will end prematurely.

Eriksen recently featured for Denmark in their Nations League clash against Spain, where his side suffered a 2-1 home defeat to the reigning European champions.