After a battering at hands of Colombia, Christian Pulisic and the USMNT bounced back by going toe-to-toe with the Selecao.
In 11 days, there will be no room for moral victories for the U.S. men's national team. Once the Copa America kicks off, results are king – no matter how you get them.
No matter what it takes, the only thing that will matter is actual, tangible success.
But on Wednesday night, in their final pre-Copa friendly, the U.S. earned a result that will allow them to leave Orlando with their heads held high. They didn't beat mighty Brazil, but they didn't back down and, in that context, it felt like a job well done.
After conceding an early goal to Rodrygo, Christian Pulisic's stunning free-kick helped the USMNT earn a 1-1 draw in Orlando. The score doesn't tell the whole story, though. The U.S. didn't sit and bunker; they showed no fear staring down an elite Brazil team.
After the recent 5-1 humbling at the hands of Colombia, this was exactly the performance the USMNT needed. A win would have been nice but, even without it, it feels like the U.S. is back on track after going toe-to-toe with one of the competition's favorites.
"We want to be able to beat teams like this, but we do think it's a positive step," Berhalter said. "Our record against Brazil hasn't been great and to have the guys put all the results away and just focus on working together, playing hard and doing their role was refreshing because that's what we're going to need to be successful moving forward."
GOAL rates the USMNT's players from Camping World Stadium…
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Goalkeeper & Defense
Matt Turner (7/10):
Needed to do better on the ball for Brazil's opener. Made a whole bunch of saves when called upon, though, which is the trade-off with a goalkeeper like Turner.
Antonee Robinson (7/10):
Got up and down that left-hand side, as he always does. Was extra helpful with that given Brazil's wingers refusing to track back.
Tim Ream (6/10):
Great on the ball, but looked a bit slow off of it. That can be expected when you play a team like Brazil, though.
Chris Richards (6/10):
Had one fantastic tackle that was correctly rewarded by VAR. Was solid otherwise as well.
Joe Scally (7/10):
Brazil targeted him all game long and he stood strong every time. One heck of a defensive performance that will help make his case at right-back.
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Midfield
Yunus Musah (5/10):
Fell asleep on Brazil's opener. Did well going forward, but needs to be more aware defensively if he wants to be a No.6 at this level.
Weston McKennie (5/10):
Wasn't as aggressive as we're used to, particularly on Brazil's goal. Didn't get on the ball as much as the USMNT would like either.
Gio Reyna (7/10):
Surprisingly did a lot of good defensive work, in addition to his attacking contributions. Didn't quite create "the" chance, but had a few decent moments.
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Attack
Christian Pulisic (8/10):
What a goal. Pulisic drew the free kick and then smashed it in himself to headline another big performance against a big team. Could have had a second, too, if not for a big save by Alisson.
Ricardo Pepi (5/10):
Just didn't quite do enough. Never really got much of a chance, which won't help as he pushes for a starting spot.
Tim Weah (7/10):
Did what he always does: go vertical. Weah simply makes opponents uncomfortable, which he did plenty against this ridiculously good Brazil team.
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Subs & Manager
Folarin Balogun (6/10):
Got loose one time, but couldn't quite create enough space to prevent his shot from being blocked.
Johnny Cardoso (7/10):
Was an emotional game for the Brazilian-raised midfielder. Made his presence felt in midfield both on and off the ball.
Brenden Aaronson (6/10):
Forced a big save out of Alisson. Struggled with the physicality of Brazil a bit, but was decent enough.
Tyler Adams (6/10):
Important minutes for Adams, who continues to build towards full fitness as the Copa looms.
Shaq Moore (N/A):
Played just a few minutes with the U.S. looking to lock up the win.
Gregg Berhalter (8/10):
A hugely important game for Berhalter. Got the tactics right and clearly had the team ready to play without fear. On another day, the U.S. leaves this game as winners, and Berhalter deserves his credit for that.
The visitors need to win at the Khettarama on Saturday if they are to force the ODI series into a decider
Madushka Balasuriya04-Jul-2025Big picture: SL will look to guard against complacencyThe only way from here is up. Just a bad day at the office. A freak occurrence. The only important result is the next one.These are probably some of the self-soothing platitudes those in the Bangladesh camp might be telling themselves after their calamitous display with the bat in the first ODI against Sri Lanka. Seven wickets for five runs, from 100 for 1 to 105 for 8 – a simple fact that there is no hiding from. But for that self-soothing to truly take effect, they might need to pick themselves off the mat, take a cold and hard look at their performance, and maybe understand that there was more good than bad.Or rather, understand that on most days, the bad will never be quite . After all, they had restricted a fairly robust Sri Lanka batting line-up to just 244 – a score that needed yet another rescue act from captain cool Charith Asalanka to attain, and one that seemed at least 40 runs below par. Then with the bat, Tanzid Hasan, during his 61-ball 62, made the surface look what it was: a bit sticky but any demons firmly in slumber.Related
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In truth, this was simply something that happens in sport every once so often, where one team performs at a level well above average, and another plunges to new depths of mediocrity; Sri Lanka were electric in the field, while some Bangladesh batters missed straight deliveries. That is the barebones reality.So while Bangladesh might do well not to dwell too much on their performance, Sri Lanka would do similarly well not to get carried away. The emphatic nature of the end result obscured some less-than-illustrious batting from the top order, while their bowling – particularly from the seamers – lacked the menace and tenacity of their Bangladesh counterparts.Sri Lanka may also wonder why the promised seamer- and-batter-friendly surface in Colombo never transpired. They had stacked their side with three seamers, but by the end of the game, both of Kamindu Mendis’ arms were getting more of a workout than any of Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando or Eshan Malinga.Bangladesh, too, had opted for three seamers, and it will be interesting to see if both sides persevere with that strategy. But in any eventuality, a reversion to the mean for one – or both – of these sides, might mean that the second ODI on Saturday might just end up being the close contest the first had promised for long periods, before veering off the rails so dramatically.Jaker Ali took on Sri Lanka’s bowling in the first game•AFP/Getty ImagesRecent formSri Lanka WWWWL Bangladesh LLLLLLIn the spotlight: Kamindu Mendis and Jaker AliOn the fourth ball Kamindu Mendis faced in the first ODI on Wednesday, he looked to drive Taskin Ahmed on the up, only to end up chipping a simple catch to mid-off. Fast forward a few hours, and off the fourth delivery he bowled, Kamindu snuck one through Towhid Hridoy’s defences before proceeding to grab two more wickets to instigate Bangladesh’s collapse. Those three wickets also came courtesy both arms, and considering the action he was imparting on the ball, it seems Kamindu has been working on his bowling a little more as of late. In a format where versatility is so crucial, Kamindu’s increasing ability to impact in every area of the game could prove invaluable.During his knock of 51 from 64 balls, with just the tail for company, Jaker Ali may have, for a fleeting moment, thought about achieving an impossible chase. In the end, he fell short, but for the hour or so that he was out in the middle, Sri Lanka – despite being so close to victory – couldn’t rest easy. But in taking on the bowling as comfortably as he did, Jaker once again showcased his ability to take hold of a game regardless of match state. For Bangladesh, the goal now should be to give him a platform to not just pull the side out of the mire, but also propel their innings to the types of totals modern ODIs demand.Dunith Wellalage could come in for Milan Rathnayake in the second ODI•AFP/Getty ImagesTeam newsSri Lanka are likely to go with same XI, though Dunith Wellalage could come in for Milan Rathnayake if the pitch looks to support spin similar to the first game.Sri Lanka (probable): 1 Nishan Madushka, 2 Pathum Nissanka, 3 Kusal Mendis (wk), 4 Kamindu Mendis, 5 Charith Asalanka (capt), 6 Janith Liyanage, 7 Milan Rathnayake/Dunith Wellalage, 8 Wanindu Hasaranga, 9 Maheesh Theekshana, 10 Eshan Malinga, 11 Asitha FernandoRishad Hossain missed the first ODI with fever, and could be back in contention. If so, he might replace Tanvir Islam, who seemed to be struggling with his calf.Bangladesh (probable): 1 Tanzid Hasan, 2 Parvez Hossain, 3 Najmul Hossain Shanto, 4 Litton Das (wk), 5 Towhid Hridoy, 6 Mehidy Hasan Miraz (capt), 7 Jaker Ali, 8 Tanzim Hasan, 9 Taskin Ahmed, 10 Tanvir Islam/Rishad Hossain, 11 Mustafizur RahmanPitch and conditionsPeriods of rain are anticipated across the day, so we could expect some stoppages. As for the pitch, after an early period where Bangladesh’s seamers prospered in the first ODI, by the end, it had begun to revert to a more traditional Khettarama surface – though it was still far from being unplayable. However, there seems to be a concerted effort to make surfaces more batting-friendly, so batting first could once more seem to the play.Among active players, Taskin Ahmed has the most wickets in ODIs between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh•Associated PressStats and trivia Of Asalanka’s five ODI hundreds, four have required him to come out to bat inside the first 15 overs. Sri Lanka have never lost to Bangladesh in 11 ODIs at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Wanindu Hasaranga is one run away from 1000 in ODIs. Whenever he scores that, he’ll become the 11th Sri Lankan to achieve the double of 1000 runs and 100 wickets in the format, having got to the latter landmark in the first ODI. Taskin Ahmed’s 26 wickets are the most by an active bowler in ODIs between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. That is also the third-highest after Lasith Malinga (27) and Muthiah Muralidaran (31).Quote”We were building a good partnership. We were a bit unfortunate because they took a brilliant catch, and then the run-out happened. That was a turning point. If we could have added 30-40 more runs, the match would have been much easier.”
Mikel Arteta has admitted that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is helping to power Arsenal’s Premier League title bid. The Gunners are looking to land a first top-flight crown since the fabled ‘Invincibles’ of 2003-04, with their Spanish head coach prepared to use all of the tools available to him. He has, however, urged caution when leaning on technology for assistance.
Unique methods: Arteta seeking marginal gains
Arteta has become renowned for his somewhat unique take on coaching, with an Amazon Prime documentary series lifting the lid on his occasionally bizarre methods of motivation – which once included playing crowd noise in training sessions. He is always seeking marginal gains.
In the modern era, that means taking advantage of the many sources of advice that are available. AI services are on hand to answer questions and simplify masses of data, with Arteta conceding that he is among those to have explored potential benefits there.
AdvertisementGettyFormer Arsenal Women's boss uses ChatGPT
Former Arsenal women’s team coach Laura Harvey, who now works with the Seattle Reign in NWSL, recently told the of ChatGPT influencing her tactical decisions: “One day in the offseason, I was writing things into ChatGPT like, ‘What is Seattle Reign’s identity?’ And it would spurt it out. And I was like, ‘I don’t know if that’s true or not’. “And then like, ‘what do you need to do to be successful in the NWSL?’ Like really broad questions.
“And then I put in, ‘What formation should you play to beat NWSL teams?’ And it spurted out every team in the league and what formation you should play. And for two teams — I’m not going to say who they are because they’ll know — it went, ‘You should play a back five.’ So I did. No joke, that’s why I did it.
“It was early in the season and I said to the coaching staff, I’m not joking this is what I did. And they were like, ‘huh, interesting’. We researched it, we did a deep dive on it, we thought about how we could play it. And we went for it, and we liked it. It worked. We won the game. It didn’t tell you how to play it or what to do in it or any of that stuff. It was just like ‘this is what we would say to do’. And I was like, ‘alright’. And that was what spurred me to look into it. So then I really looked into it.”
How Arteta is using AI at Arsenal
Quizzed on whether he is treading a similar path, Arteta said of using AI to evaluate performances and identify areas of improvement: “It’s a tool that is super powerful if you use it in the right way and you ask the right questions. It’s in use already for many things and many processes that can help not just a team but an organisation as well. It will improve and it will give us good insight, or things at least to think about. I’m not an expert but it’s a valuable tool.
“We have developed certain things that in our opinion can help us to understand ourselves better and evaluate what we do and what we can improve. And then we will explore using it in many other areas of the club.”
He added on tech tools being unable to replicate the skills required to deal with players on a personal level: “If it’s reliable, it can help us [for injuries], for sure but always without losing the sensitivity and feeling and following your gut. We are dealing with human beings and that’s an aspect that, so far, it is not able to replace.
“With the stats, it is about how do I interpret those stats and how reliable they are? You can get very confused, very annoyed, immediately. But this data means nothing, because you have to analyse. What is the methodology of that? And if you don’t understand that, and you just look at the data, then you can have a big problem.”
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gettyNorth London derby & Kane: Arsenal fixtures
Arsenal have opened up a four-point lead at the top of the Premier League table, but dropped two in the latest outing after being held to a dramatic 2-2 draw at Sunderland.
With another international break being reached, the Gunners will be back in action on November 23 when playing host to arch-rivals Tottenham in the north London derby – before then tackling Harry Kane and Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
Tottenham Hotspur are a club who have endured success in recent times, something which the supporters have been starved of in the last two decades.
The Lilywhites were on a 17-year drought without any form of silverware, but that all changed at the end of 2024/25, after winning the Europa League under Ange Postecoglou.
However, it wasn’t enough to maintain his job, leading to Thomas Frank being appointed as the man to try and build on the recent levels reached by the Lilywhites.
Tottenham Hotspur managerThomasFrankcelebrates after the match
The Dane has numerous years of experience in the Premier League, something which will massively help him in his quest for success during his spell in North London.
He will undoubtedly want to make his own mark on the current first team squad, with the style of play that saw him be a hit at Brentford, but will also need reinforcements if he is to reach the next level in his managerial career.
The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer
Over the last couple of days, João Palhinha has emerged as the latest player who appears to be making a move to join Spurs during the current transfer window.
Fabrizio Romano confirmed yesterday that a deal has been agreed for the 30-year-old to join the club on an initial loan deal, with the deal having an option to buy for around £25m next summer.
However, he’s not the only star currently in their sights, with Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi still firmly on their radar, according to one Spanish outlet.
They claim that despite missing out on him in previous windows, the Lilywhites are set to meet his current asking price of around £50m, with the centre-back only having a year left on his deal.
The report also states that Newcastle United are also willing to match his asking price, which could see a battle for the 25-year-old take place in the coming weeks.
Why Spurs’ £50m target would be perfect for Palhinha
As previously mentioned, Spurs are set to complete a deal for Palhinha in the coming days, a deal that could prove to be an excellent piece of business from Frank and the board.
Joao Palhinha
Whilst the Portuguese international only made six league starts last season, he still managed to produce some impressive numbers, many of which would bolster the club’s ambitions for success.
He won 1.9 tackles per 90 in the Bundesliga – a tally which put him in the top 2% of all players in the division, handing Frank a needed ball-winner at the heart of his side.
Palhinha also thrived with the ball at his feet, registering 6.3 passes into the final third per 90, achieving a 92% pass completion rate, having the tools to star in and out of possession.
If he is to be a success in North London, he will need other reinforcements in his quest to impress, potentially opening the door to a move to sign Guehi this summer.
Crystal Palace's MarcGuehireacts
Whilst the Englishman is a defender and his primary role is to stop the ball from entering the goal, he also has the responsibility to build up play from the back and allow the former Fulham star to prove his worth after his own move.
The Palace captain completed 84% of the passes he attempted, with a tally of 3.9 of his passes being progressive, subsequently being able to break the lines and find Palhinha in pockets of space.
Games played
34
Goals & assists
5
Pass accuracy
84%
Progressive passes
3.9
Key passes made
0.5
Tackles won
1.8
% of tackles won
66%
Blocks made
1.6
Clearances made
4.8
Aerial success rate
54%
However, Guehi, who’s been labelled “exceptional” by former goalkeeper Joe Hart, also dominated out of possession, winning 1.8 tackles per 90, and winning 52% of the aerial battles he entered.
His tally of 66% of tackles won in England’s top-flight also ranks him in the top 10% of all defenders in the division, offering key depth and quality to Frank’s side next season.
If he can transfer such skills across the capital this summer, a deal for Guehi would be another huge statement made by the hierarchy in their attempts to build on their European triumph.
He has all the tools to link up with Palhinha in possession, whilst both players could hand the Lilywhites would be gaining two defensively solid players who can help improve their record at the back, which saw them ship 65 league goals in 2024/25.
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A new season will soon dawn, and for Arsenal, it’s the same objective: challenge for and win the Premier League.
Having finished second for three successive campaigns, Mikel Arteta knows that this year is a big one, with the Gunners in desperate need of crowning this resurgent era with silverware.
But it’s coming together, no doubt. Bukayo Saka is fully fit once again after an injury-hit 2024/25 season; Viktor Gyokeres has signed for £63.5m to end the interminable search for a focal striker.
But a first-class left-sided forward could still be added to complete the set. Not since the days of Alexis Sanchez have Arsenal had a world-class weapon on that wing.
But it’s beginning to look like such a signing could be on the cards.
Arsenal lining up new winger
Many names have been bandied about this summer, but Arsenal are reaching a point in their transfer window in which the fog will start to clear and Arteta’s final market plans will crystallise.
Fabrizio Romano claimed at the weekend that, with Gyokeres now part of the crew, the Londoners are “working on outgoings as priority” before addressing the left flank, which could do with a new part.
But when they are ready to pounce, it looks like Arsenal have lined up Eberechi Eze as their new man.
According to Caught Offside, the Gunners should be wary of rising interest from Manchester’s biggest clubs for the Three Lions star, though it’s stressed that Arsenal remain firm favourites after their sustained efforts over the past weeks.
Previous reports have revealed that Arsenal have seen an opening bid partially accepted. To be more specific, a fixed £30m fee has been agreed between the clubs, though the structure of the remainder of Eze’s £68m release clause remains unsettled.
Why Arsenal should sign Eberechi Eze
There are many reasons why Eze would be a fantastic addition to Arteta’s Arsenal squad.
The 27-year-old, first and foremost, is an electric and versatile attacking midfielder, having gone from strength to strength across his five years at Selhurst Park, culminating his journey with the winning goal in last season’s FA Cup final against Manchester City.
Eze’s 25-goal contribution campaign underscores his ability to provide more than just a showreel style of play. He’s increasingly potent in the final third, capable of scoring goals himself and focusing on his creativity to aid the likes of Gyokeres.
As per FBref, he ranked among the top 6% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues last year for shots taken, the top 11% for shot-creating actions and the top 10% for successful take-ons per 90.
He’s quite the exciting player, all right, praised for his “special” talents by BBC Sports’ Phil McNulty.
In fact, Eze could prove to bring a bit of flair and gusto to this Arsenal side in a way that would bear a likeness to that man Sanchez, who scored 80 goals and supplied 44 assists across 166 games for the Gunners, way back when.
Obviously, Eze isn’t as good as the 36-year-old was when in his Premier League prime. It wouldn’t be a bad take to claim that he was the best player in England at the height of his success at the Emirates.
Matches (starts)
38 (36)
34 (31)
Goals
24
8
Assists
10
8
Shots (on target)*
3.4 (1.3)
3.0 (0.9)
Touches*
65.0
46.6
Pass completion
74%
82%
Big chances created
10
11
Key passes
2.2
1.7
Dribbles*
2.8
2.0
Tackles + interceptions*
2.0
1.4
Duels won*
6.4
4.8
Sanchez really was on another level in his Arsenal heyday, wasn’t he? Eze, obviously, isn’t at that level, but he shares many attributes with the thrill-seeking Chilean, and it’s something Arteta could use to shape him into a world-beater at the present day.
Bear in mind, furthermore, that we’re contrasting Sanchez’s finest season in the Premier League against Eze’s latest with Crystal Palace. It wouldn’t be brazen to suggest that Eze’s most fruitful days lie in front of him, should he sign for Arsenal this summer.
federico-chiesa-alexis-sanchez-arsenal-opinion
Thus, it’s rather exciting to see how complete, tenacious, talented the England international is at this stage of his career, refined and built into the elite player he is, but still open to taking the next step and reaching the pinnacle.
Similarities can be traced from here to Sanchez, who established himself as a high-class forward at Barcelona but lingered in the shadow of one of football’s greatest-ever frontlines: MSN.
At Arsenal, he bloomed into an iconic frontman, hailed by Arsene Wenger as being a truly “exceptional footballer”.
He wasn’t a spring chicken when he first arrived in the English capital. The South American chose Arsenal despite the vested interest of Liverpool, penned a deal worth £35m in July 2014. He was 25 at the time.
Given that the likes of Manchester City and Manchester United are interested in Eze right now, it seems Arsenal may be primed to pull off another statement signing, reeling in a player who has his heart set on north London red.
Eze is in his prime, and he’s got a taste for trophies that could be used to spearhead this project further, up and up past these years of fighting for honours and onto the biggest, grandest stage there is: winning the Premier League, sealing the Champions League, and then defending these prizes which the talented squad so desperately desire.
Crystal Palace's EberechiEzecelebrates with the trophy after winning the FA Cup
Given the quality of the current Arsenal attacking crop, it feels crucial that Arteta and Berta come together to get this one wrapped up.
Better than Trossard & Martinelli: Arsenal chasing £56m Eze alternative
Arsenal are looking to sign a creative player before the start of the 2025/26 campaign.
Aaron Ramsdale could be heading out of the Emirates as the Arsenal outcast is reportedly on the wish list of Southampton.
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Ramsdale has no future at Arsenal
Southampton show interest in stopper
Wolves have also made an approach
WHAT HAPPENED?
According to the the Saints have been actively exploring their options between the sticks, holding discussions over a potential move for Feyenoord's Justin Bijlow. However, should those negotiations falter, the Saints are eyeing Ramsdale as a viable alternative.
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
With Southampton manager Russell Martin eager to add depth to his squad, particularly with Gavin Bazunu sidelined due to a ruptured Achilles, Ramsdale has emerged as a strong candidate to fill the void. The 34-year-old Alex McCarthy, who started in goal during Southampton’s 1-0 defeat to Newcastle in their Premier League opener, has been dependable but may not be the long-term solution Southampton need.
DID YOU KNOW?
Wolves have also entered the fray, offering an initial loan deal for Ramsdale with an obligation to buy at the end of the season. The Midlands club is reportedly willing to cover the majority of Ramsdale's wages during the 2024-25 campaign, making the offer financially attractive for Arsenal.
Ramsdale, who joined Arsenal in 2021, quickly established himself as the first-choice goalkeeper under Mikel Arteta, starting 72 of the 76 Premier League matches during his first two seasons with the club. However, the arrival of David Raya from Brentford on loan has drastically reduced Ramsdale's playing time, with the Englishman making just six starts in the Premier League.
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WHAT NEXT?
Arsenal, meanwhile, have been exploring their own options to cover the potential departure of Ramsdale. The north London club has shown interest in Wolves’ goalkeeper Dan Bentley as a backup for Raya. However, it remains unclear whether Arsenal and Wolves will seek to include Bentley in any potential deal involving Ramsdale. The Gunners reportedly have Espanyol's Joan Garcia on their shortlist as well.
In a summer full of frustration for Newcastle United, things could be about to get even worse with reports now suggesting that PIF could yet help deal them a major blow.
Howe delivers verdict on "difficult" summer
Those at St James’ Park have had plenty of ambition without reward so far this summer. Whilst they deserve praise for the signing of Anthony Elanga, other targets have come and gone elsewhere in what has become the frustrating trend of their transfer window.
The latest to do so looks set to be Hugo Ekitike. Although reports suggested that Newcastle had already submitted an opening bid for the Frenchman with a second on the way, Liverpool soon swooped in to steal a march on the Magpies. With concerns that the Reds would instead turn towards Alexander Isak if they missed out on the Frankfurt star, Newcastle dropped out of the race for his signature.
Eddie Howe, like all involved at St James’ Park, will be incredibly disappointed by how the summer transfer window has gone so far. He told reporters when asked about Newcastle’s business: “It was a difficult summer (to switch off) with everything going on behind the scenes.
“Obviously losing Paul (Mitchell) and all of the dynamics changing within (the club). The Sporting Director role is such a pivotal role at the club, so there was a lot (of work) to pick up.
“There has been a lot of work, transfer-wise, for very little incoming action, although we are delighted to get Anthony Elanga in, who has done very well in training so far. But a lot more work (is needed) behind the scenes in preparation for the new season.”
More clinical than Ekitike: Howe plotting Newcastle move to sign £75m+ star
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After calling for more work to be done, Howe may not exactly get his wish, however. In fact, reports are now suggesting that PIF could even play a part in dealing Newcastle their biggest blow yet.
Saudi giants plotting shock Isak move
According to Sky’s Gianluca Di Marzio, Al-Hilal are now plotting a shock move to sign Isak from Newcastle this summer in what would see PIF work on a deal between two of their majority owned clubs. Led by Simone Inzaghi, the Saudi market is said to be “heating up” with Al-Hilal “considering a massive offer to convince both the club and the player.”
It’s an unexpected twist, to say the least, but the Magpies could now reportedly lose out to the rich owners that they entrusted with keeping the Swede in the first place.
Despite the fact that PIF own a majority stake in both clubs, there would reportedly be no issue regarding the regulations if Al-Hilal did sign Isak this summer. Having lost out on Ekitike to fend off any interest from Liverpool in Isak, it would now be the summer’s most shocking turn if the forward moved to the Saudi Pro League courtesy of PIF.
There’s no doubt that the Magpies would be losing one of, if not the, best striker in the Premier League or perhaps world football, who earned plenty of praise from Gary Neville last season.
The Manchester United legend and Sky Sports pundit said after Newcastle defeated the Red Devils: “You could really see the quality of his play and his movement tonight.
“He’s absolutely fantastic and he’s improving all the time. We know he can score goals, we know he can run, but also his hold-up play and his link with others has got better and better since he’s been at Newcastle.”
Manchester City have been rocked as it has emerged that one of their first team stars may opt to quit the Etihad Stadium this summer.
Man City eyeing double
Pep Guardiola's side clinched their fourth consecutive Premier League title on Sunday with a 3-1 win over West Ham, pipping Arsenal to top spot by two points. They could yet make that a domestic double should they beat Manchester United in the FA Cup final at Wembley this weekend, a result that would also leave the Red Devils without any European football next season, something that they have not been faced with since 2015.
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The Premier League champions are showing concrete interest.
ByHenry Jackson May 20, 2024
But it has not been as calm as the previous season for Guardiola's side, and this summer seems likely to bring with it plenty of change, with Kevin de Bruyne's future unclear amid interest from Saudi Arabia. Equally unclear are the futures of Bernardo Silva and Sergio Gomez, with the former a long-term target for Spanish giants Barcelona.
Meanwhile, Kalvin Phillips' time at City appears up, though interested parties have been put off by the hefty price tag demanded for the midfieder by Guardiola's side, and they are likely to need to take a loss on the midfielder to move him on.
Another that the club may need to cut their losses on is Joao Cancelo, who has spent this season on loan with Barcelona but whose value only continues to decrease, with the Catalan side unlikely to be able to stump up the funds to sign him permanently for anything like the £60m City shelled out to bring him to the Etihad.
There are rumours on the incoming front too. There is long-term interest in the likes of Premier League stars Eberechi Eze, Pedro Neto and Michael Olise as the Cityzens look to flex their financial muscles once more this summer. But now, they have been stung by the news that they may lose a cornerstone of their starting XI this summer.
Ederson could depart Man City
That news comes courtesy of reliable transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, who reports that Ederson could be on his way out of the Etihad this summer.
The Brazilian shot-stopper, who will miss the FA Cup final after suffering a fractured eye socket against Tottenham a week ago, still has two years left to run on his £100,000 per week deal in Manchester, but it is claimed that he could leave this summer should the club and player recieve "a good proposal", with the goalkeeper "considering [his] possibilities at the end of the season".
That comes amid interest from Saudi Arabia, who are keen to continue their hefty recruitment drive having already signed teammate Riyad Mahrez 12 months ago from the Etihad outfit.
Ederson's impressive Premier League campaign 23/24
Appearances
33
Save %
70.7%
Saves per 90
1.7
Clean sheets
10
Goals prevented
1.2
However, Romano adds that "it will be up to the player" as to whether he forces a move away or not, with Guardiola known not to stand in the way of players who wish to depart.
Should he opt to leave, it means that he has already played his last competitive game for City, and it could make the potential contract renewal for Stefan Ortega even more of a priority on the blue side of Manchester.
The Oranje succumbed to a deserved 3-2 defeat in Berlin that means they finish third in Group D and now face a tough path to the final
The Netherlands came into their final Group D game at Euro 2024 with a chance to finish top of the pile, but instead turned in a dismal performance against Austria that resulted in a 3-2 defeat and a third-placed berth which could have a major impact on how far they are able to go in the tournament.
Ronald Koeman's side made a slow start in Berlin, and fell behind inside six minutes as a desperate Donyell Malen poked the ball into his own net. The Borussia Dortmund man had a chance to make amends, however, when he was put through on goal midway through the first half, only to scuff his effort wide.
On the whole, the Oranje were awful in the first half, but Koeman's message at the interval paid immediate dividends as Cody Gakpo curled in a fine equaliser after a swift counter-attack. Despite that, they couldn't pick up any momentum, and Austria retook the lead when Romano Schmid headed in at the back post.
Cheered on by their vocal support in the German capital, the Netherlands got themselves back into the game yet again when Memphis Depay brought down Wout Weghorst's knock-down and fired home. Again, though, their joy was short-lived, as the outstanding Marcel Sabitzer got in behind the Dutch defence and beat Bart Verbruggen from a tight angle for what ended up being the winning goal.
GOAL rates the Netherlands' players from Olympiastadion…
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Goalkeeper & Defence
Bart Verbruggen (5/10):
Perhaps slightly slow to move for Malen's own goal, but was unsighted. Decent save denied Sabitzer in the first half, but should not have been beaten at his near post for the Dortmund midfielder's winner.
Lutsharel Geertruida (3/10):
Like a rabbit in the headlights in the first half as the game looked too big for him. Decision to allow him to come inside in possession led to the equaliser, only for the Feyenoord man to switch off in the build-up to Schmidt's header.
Stefan de Vrij (5/10):
Dragged all over the place by Arnautovic and Sabitzer. Perhaps should have done better with his attempted clearance for Schmidt's goal.
Virgil van Dijk (5/10):
Didn't look overly comfortable, and he was forced to spend a lot of time trying to fix mistakes made by his team-mates. Dropped far too deep to play Sabitzer onside for the winner.
Nathan Ake (6/10):
Didn't do much wrong as most of Austria's best attacks came down the opposite flank. Replaced after 65 minutes.
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Midfield
Jerdy Schouten (4/10):
Looked very lightweight at the heart of the Dutch midfield, and struggled to get near Sabitzer as he roamed in front of the defence.
Joey Veerman (2/10):
Struggled to deal with the Austrian press as he gave the ball away routinely and was unable to influence the game defensively either. Substituted 10 minutes before half-time.
Tijjani Reijnders (5/10):
Carried the ball forward well on a couple of occasions but lacked a penetrative pass. Shot wide twice, including when presented with a very good early chance on the edge of the box.
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Attack
Donyell Malen (2/10):
Abysmal in the first half. Scored an own goal after his own lack of work-rate led to Austria getting in behind, and then missed a sitter when given the chance to equalise. Better after the break until he suffered an injury with 20 minutes to go.
Memphis Depay (7/10):
Showed some exquisite touches with his back to goal, and answered his critics with a fine touch and finish to make it 2-2. Set-play deliveries were woeful, however.
Cody Gakpo (7/10):
Again the Netherlands' best player and most potent attacker. Scored yet another major tournament goal with a fine curled finish immediately after half-time.
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Subs & Manager
Xavi Simons (7/10):
Added dynamism to the Dutch midfield after being thrown on before half-time. Set up Gakpo's goal with a driving run.
Georginio Wijnaldum (5/10):
Didn't offer all that much after replacing Reijnders for the final 25 minutes.
Micky van de Ven (6/10):
Replaced Ake and maintained the solidity on the left of defence.
Wout Weghorst (6/10):
FIne header set up Depay's strike, but missed a great headed chance himself to make it 3-3.
Ronald Koeman (3/10):
Initial tactics of sitting off Austria and seemingly not preparing his players for Rangnick's press left a lot to be desired. Early substitution of Veerman and decision to move Geertruida inside both had positive effects, but overall this was an awful day for the ex-Barcelona boss.
According to The Mirror, Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly set to secure the signing of West Brom goalkeeper Sam Johnstone during the upcoming transfer window.
The Lowdown: Spurs no longer facing competition
The 29-year-old first joined the Baggies in a £6.5m move from Manchester United in 2018, but his current contract is set to expire at the end of the season and it’s expected that the Albion hierarchy will allow him to leave.
The three-time England international has already received plenty of interest from multiple Premier League clubs, including the Red Devils, who were rumoured to have considered bringing Johnstone back to Old Trafford. However, it now appears that the Lilywhites are in pole position to win the race for his signature.
In a new report published by The Mirror, it’s claimed that Antonio Conte’s outfit are now ‘favourites’ to land the £18k-per-week goalkeeper and look set to ‘win the race’ for his services as a result of United deciding ‘not to press ahead’ with their pursuit.
The source added that Johnstone is a very ‘attractive’ prospect to Daniel Levy and the Tottenham recruitment team, who are said to view the shot-stopper as ‘genuine competition’ and a ‘solid alternative’ to Spurs’ current number one Hugo Lloris.
The Verdict: An absolute bargain
The Preston-born talent has a very impressive record between the sticks, having kept a staggering 102 clean sheets in 319 senior club appearances since the start of his playing career.
Johnstone, who was once dubbed a “sensational” player by Match of the Day host Gary Lineker, will become a free agent in the summer due to the expiry of his West Brom contract, which would make him an absolute bargain for any potential suitors.
Should Spurs be successful in bringing the 29-year-old through the door in north London in the coming months, he would be able to keep Lloris on his toes and certainly has the potential to go on and take the number one spot from the France veteran further down the line.
In other news… a source has confirmed that Tottenham are eyeing up a potential move for this defender