All posts by rastrear-estafeta.com

If there is one area of the squad for Manchester United that needs rebuilding during the 2024 summer transfer window, it is the midfield. It could be decimated this summer, with player departures and potential sales in the middle of the park, too.

There are some players who are guaranteed to stay at Old Trafford. Captain Bruno Fernandes has been linked with a move away to Saudi Arabia but seems likely to stay. Mason Mount and exciting youngster Kobbie Mainoo will also stay at the club ahead of next season.

In terms of departures in midfield, one has already occurred. Sofyan Amrabat’s loan has expired, and he has now left the club. However, there are talks of the club negotiating a new deal to keep the player at the club, which could be at lower terms than the buy clause in his old loan deal.

The trio of Casemiro, Scott McTominay and Christian Eriksen could also all leave Old Trafford this summer. The Daily Mail reported in April the trio were part of a ten-player list who could exit the club.

With that in mind, United will certainly need to add to their depth in midfield this summer. They have recently been linked with one player who could add depth and quality to the middle of the park.

Man Utd target Ligue 1 midfielder

The player in question here is Paris Saint Germain and Uruguay midfielder Manuel Ugarte. Despite only playing for one season with the French champions, Ugarte could depart the club this summer.

According to a report from Le 10 Sport, United are 'exerting a lot of pressure behind the scenes' on PSG in order to get a deal over the line, with the board 'very optimistic' about getting a deal done for Ugarte.

The report suggests the Red Devils have tabled an offer for the 23-year-old midfielder worth £38m, which has been 'accompanied by several bonuses'. It's further explained that PSG head coach, Luis Enrique, will have the final say and could decide he wants to keep Ugarte.

Whilst United lead the race for the Uruguay international, they are not the only club interested in signing the midfielder. United’a Mancunian rivals Manchester City, as well as Spanish giants Barcelona, are also interested in adding the tough-tackling Uruguay to their squad to bolster their midfield options.

Why Ugarte would be a good signing

It may be somewhat surprising that PSG are willing to move on Ugarte just a year after they signed him from Sporting for £51.1m. He played 37 times for PSG last term, which included only 25 games in Ligue 1.

The defensive midfielder plays in a similar mould to France and Chelsea legend N’Golo Kante. Like the World Cup winner, Ugarte is a tough-tackling midfielder, who one analyst praising his “aggressiveness, tenacity and determination” off the ball.

Indeed, this is reflected in his FBref stats, too. The PSG midfielder averages 2.32 tackles won per 90 minutes, and 1.86 interceptions made. This places him in the top 2% and top 4% amongst midfielders in Europe respectively.

Not only that, Ugarte reads the game very well and has excellent recovery pace, something that is reflected in his ball recovery stats per 90. The Uruguay international averages an impressive 8.14 ball recoveries, which ranks him in the top 1%. It really is no wonder that he was described as a "destroyer" by football analyst Ben Mattinson on X.

Tackles attempted

4.11

99th

Tackles won

2.32

98th

Interceptions

1.86

96th

Tackles + interceptions

5.97

99th

Ball recoveries

8.14

99th

As a result, the Uruguay international could become the perfect partner for United’s captain Fernandes, given his defensive ability. It would allow the Portugal international to have less defensive responsibility and flourish more in the final third.

Last season, Fernandes’ 18 Premier League goals and assists were the most amongst United’s squad, as per Sofascore. If he was freed up even more with Ugarte behind him, then we could well see Fernandes’ numbers explode further.

A partnership of Ugarte and Fernandes could well be a match made in heaven for United. Not only do the Red Devils get to add a tenacious defensive midfielder to their squad, who is happy to do the dirty work, but he could help unlock their captain and allow him great freedom in the final third. For just £38m, it could be the dream deal for United to do this summer.

Teddy Sheringham: £65m England star could now be "heading to Man Utd"

Teddy Sheringham was speaking exclusively to FFC about Manchester United’s recruitment.

ByMatt Dawson Jul 10, 2024

With Douglas Luiz already set to leave, Aston Villa could now suffer another transfer blow, with Al-Nassr now eyeing a move to sign one of Unai Emery's attacking stars who they believe can partner Cristiano Ronaldo and replace Sadio Mane.

Aston Villa transfer news

Emery has already suffered quite the blow in the form of Luiz's pending exit. The defensive midfielder is set to swap Villa Park for Juventus in a deal that will see Samuel Iling-Junior and Enzo Barrenechea arrive in the other direction. But even with such arrivals, Emery will still struggle to replace the impact that Luiz had on his side, especially as they finished inside the Premier League's top four last season.

Attempting to comply with the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules, however, those in the Midlands may yet suffer another frustrating exit. According to The Daily Mail, Al-Nassr are willing to sell Sadio Mane to sign Moussa Diaby from Aston Villa just one year after the winger joined the Midlands club for a reported £52m.

Aston Villa could boldly sell Watkins by signing £25m sensation

Unai Emery has shown interest in a player who shone in France last season

1 ByRoss Kilvington Jun 27, 2024

The Saudi Club reportedly believe that the former Bayer Leverkusen man can replace Mane to become Ronaldo's partner next season. Diaby endured a mixed debut campaign at Villa Park, having started well before seeing his form fall away as the season progressed. Now, a year later, he could have the chance to bring an end to his time in the Premier League before Villa fans have really seen him at his best.

With that said, after already seemingly bidding farewell to Luiz, it remains to be seen whether Villa would be willing to show Diaby the exit door this summer.

"Versatile" Diaby yet to show best form at Aston Villa

Whilst Diaby didn't show his best form in his debut season, he isn't the first to take such time to adapt to Premier League football and he won't be the last. Given further time, there's no doubt that, like others, the winger will finally burst into life on a consistent basis in the Midlands to hand Emery a true attacking asset.

The Spaniard was full of praise for Diaby last season and the role he was playing, despite arguably not being at his best, telling Aston Villa's official website: “Moussa’s adaptation is going fast but he needs this adaptation. Each match for him, to know his teammates better, is very important.

"He is a player being versatile for us and I’m going to use him for the next matches and over the season in different positions. It’s very important for him and the team his capacity to assist and score goals. His qualities are adding to us being stronger in our squad.”

Ending the last campaign with 10 goals and nine assists in all competitions, Diaby will hope to take that extra step towards his best form to arguably hand Villa one of the most electric wingers in the Premier League.

The details of Manchester United's agreement to bring Dan Ashworth to Old Trafford this summer have been revealed by Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

Big summer for Ratcliffe at Man Utd

Sir Jim Ratcliffe's influence on the Red Devils has grown significantly this year, having become a part-owner of the team he has supported since he was a boy. The hope is that United's fortunes will change for the better with the Englishman overseeing transfers and the general day-to-day running of the club, and plenty of rumours have emerged of late.

Centre-back appears to be a key position where Erik ten Hag's side need to strengthen in, with Jarrad Branthwaite and Matthijs de Ligt both emerging as targets at the heart of the defence. The respective Everton and Bayern Munich stars both represent expensive but exciting options, as United look to find an ideal long-term partner for Lisandro Martinez.

At the other end of the pitch, Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee is emerging as a genuinely strong transfer target, coming in to provide excellent competition for Rasmus Hojlund up front. Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Manuel Ugarte has also been linked with a summer switch to Old Trafford, possibly being looked at as someone who could get the best out of Kobbie Mainoo.

Off the field, there has also been hope that Ashworth will come in as the Red Devils' sporting director, as United look to copy their rivals' approach in terms of transfers, such as Michael Edwards at Liverpool during the height of Jurgen Klopp's reign. The Newcastle United guru has been on gardening leave since earlier this year, as the two clubs aim to come to an agreement.

Man Utd reach Ashworth "agreement"

Taking to X on Monday morning, Downie reports that Manchester United have now reached an "agreement" with Newcastle for Ashworth to become their new sporting director, confirming an exciting start date as far as United fans are concerned – today.

"Manchester United & Newcastle United have reached agreement for Dan Ashworth to move to Old Trafford. The Spotting Director is set to move to MUFC and begin work straight away.

"A compromise on compensation has been reached after months of stand-off, and potential arbitration avoided. Newcastle are pleased with the conclusion and the transaction helped their PSR issues too. Ashworth has been on NUFC ‘gardening leave’ since February."

This feels like a significant moment for United, considering how highly Ashworth is thought of in the game, with Gary Neville heaping praise on him: "He transformed the FA’s structure, set Brighton up for this incredible period of success and has now built a strong foundation for the new owners at Newcastle. He’s competent, highly qualified and knows what he’s doing."

The hope is that this will ease the burden on Ten Hag, letting him focus more on the success of the team, but also allow him to work alongside the 53-year-old and bring in the right players who can suit the Dutchman's style of play.

The fact the new transfer chief can start immediately is great news for the manager as well, allowing him more time in pre-season to work with any new faces.

Ten Hag could oust Dalot in repeat of Man Utd's Cantona swoop

He is likely to leave his club this summer.

ByJoe Nuttall Jun 30, 2024

For too long, United's transfer approach has felt aimless, with too many big-name signings who are past their best coming in, but if Ashworth can have the same impact he did at Newcastle, his influence could be vast, playing a part in them return to the top of the English game eventually.

Over the last couple of seasons, Manchester United have failed to deliver in the Premier League, as seen by the embarrassing 15th-placed finish last time around.

From poor recruitment to managerial mistakes, there have been countless reasons as to why the Red Devils have found themselves in such a position of late.

However, after spending a year at the helm at Old Trafford, Ruben Amorim will still believe he is the man to take the club back to their former glory in the seasons ahead.

There have been glimpses of quality during the early months of the 2025/26 campaign, but the 40-year-old desperately needs to sustain such success on a consistent basis.

Numerous of his first-team players have certainly gone under the radar over recent weeks, with many not quite getting the credit they deserve for their showings in England’s top-flight.

Man Utd’s most underrated players in 2025/26 so far

Amorim’s renowned 3-4-2-1 system has allowed numerous players at United to reignite their Red Devils career, but none more so than winger Amad Diallo.

The Ivorian was often an impact player under the last management team, but he’s featured in all but one league outing under Amorim so far this campaign.

He’s already registered three combined goals and assists, with his only goal coming in the 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest – but it was certainly a strike to remember.

Underlying stats such as three big chances created and 1.3 successful dribbles per 90 – both the most in the squad – highlight his incredible ability on the transition for the Red Devils.

He’s not the only first-team member who hasn’t received enough praise, with Brazilian midfielder Casemiro resurrecting his career at Old Trafford over the last few months.

Many would have expected the 33-year-old to depart last summer, but he’s once again become a regular starter and has matched Amad for total appearances this season.

He’s already posted four goal contributions – the third highest in the squad – often popping up with the goods when needed in the final third of the pitch.

However, he’s been just as impressive defensively, making 2.9 tackles and winning 6.5 duels per 90 – handing Amorim the disruptive force he’s been craving at the heart of the side.

The United star who’s showing shades of McTominay

Casemiro will no doubt have benefited from the departure of Scott McTominay last summer, with the Scotsman’s move to Napoli freeing a role for him as a starter once again.

The 28-year-old spent a huge chunk of his professional career on the books at United, allowing him to rack up a total of over 250 senior appearances for his boyhood club.

He was at the heart of numerous memorable moments during his first team spell at the Theatre of Dreams, with the highlight undoubtedly being his long-range goal in the Manchester Derby.

However, despite producing such impressive performances, he often didn’t get the credit he deserved from the supporters, which no doubt aided his move to Italy.

In the last 18 months in Serie A, McTominay has registered 14 goals and six assists, leading to a Ballon d’Or nomination – an unthinkable feat given his inconsistency at United.

However, the club do have another hugely underrated player on their books at present, with centre-back Matthijs de Ligt finally starting to show why the hierarchy paid £43m for his signature in 2024.

The Dutchman was seen as the solution to the club’s defensive woes, but endured a tricky debut campaign – one that was no doubt a culture shock to the 26-year-old.

The same can’t be said in 2025/26, with the defender undoubtedly being one of the club’s shining lights over the last couple of months in the Premier League.

He’s featured in every single minute of the Red Devils’ league campaign to date, allowing him to produce some simply mind-boggling numbers in the process.

De Ligt, who’s been dubbed a “warrior” by Dev Bajwa, has made 1.6 tackles and won 5.6 duels per 90 – backing up Casemiro and providing another line of solidarity.

He’s also won 63% of his aerial battles to date, at an average of 3.3 per 90 – handing Amorim that dominant presence which he’s craved since taking the reins.

Games played

12

Goals scored

1

Pass accuracy

88%

Interceptions made

1.3

Aerials won

3.3

Aerial success rate

63%

Tackles won

1.6

Duels won

5.6

Other numbers, such as 88%of passes completed and 1.3 interceptions made per 90, further showcase his all-round quality, leading to Bajwa even claiming he’s the club’s “most underrated player”.

Many of the aforementioned numbers are similar to those of McTominay, who has also dominated aerially in Serie A this season, as seen by his tally of four headed goals already this season.

Both also possess the leadership qualities to lead a side forward, with both players no doubt wanting to achieve added success at their various clubs in 2025/26.

There’s no denying the defensive unit at Old Trafford has massively improved compared to last season, with De Ligt’s upturn in form certainly contributing to their success.

However, he hasn’t yet received as much praise as he deserves for his efforts, with the Dutchman likely to play a key role in any success under Amorim come the end of the campaign.

Anderson upgrade: INEOS plan £105m bid to sign "world-class" CM for Man Utd

Manchester United appear to have another midfielder on their radar instead of Elliot Anderson.

ByEthan Lamb Nov 27, 2025

A new claim has emerged regarding who Norwich City’s next manager could be, with Kim Hellberg reportedly the subject of talks with the club recently.

The Canaries are still looking to bring in the right replacement for Liam Manning, who was relieved of his duties earlier this month, with the 40-year-old sending a classy message to the fanbase.

“I look back on being appointed head coach of my hometown club with great pride. Unfortunately, we were unable to achieve the results or fulfil the plans we set out when we took over in June.​ Although my time with the fans was brief, I want to acknowledge their outstanding support during a challenging period. They continued to show up in great numbers – unsurprising given their passion and loyalty – and displayed incredible spirit despite understandable frustrations.”

“I would like to thank the players for their efforts throughout my time at the club and wish them all the best, both personally and professionally. The club welcomed me warmly, and the dedication of everyone across all departments never went unnoticed. I am truly grateful for that and I wish everyone associated with Norwich City the very best for the future.”

A host of individuals have been linked with being Manning’s successor at Norwich, including former Sweden boss Jon Dahl Tomasson, and now a new update has thrown another name into the hat.

The latest on Jon Dahl Tomasson becoming Norwich City's next manager

Is he the right man for the job?

ByHenry Jackson Nov 16, 2025 Norwich have held talks with Kim Hellberg

According to Sky Sports, Norwich briefly spoke to Hammarby manager boss Hellebrg about taking charge at Carrow Road, but that ship appears to have sailed.

That’s because Middlesbrough are believed to have a verbal agreement in place with the 37-year-old, bringing him in to replace Rob Edwards, who has departed for Wolves.

Hellberg would have been a left-field choice by Norwich, given his lack of experience, but it is easy to see why they have looked at him as a potential strong choice.

The Swede has been lauded as the “brightest football mind” by assistant coach David Selini, highlighting his tactical acumen, and by IFK Varnamo sporting director Enes Ahmetovic for the detail he goes into, and he is at an age where he is likely to bring fresh ideas.

It looks as though Norwich will have to look elsewhere, though, whether it be Tomasson, Gary O’Neil or someone else, and the Canaries will hope that Hellberg doesn’t thrive too much at Boro, assuming he does move there.

Norwich City also had talks with manager who has 100% win record vs Manning

If Rangers are going to reestablish themselves as both Scottish football’s dominant side but also a force in Europe once again, their recruitment simply must improve.

Sporting director Kevin Thelwell gave an interview to the club’s official TV channel this week, his position very much under the microscope from supporters following a very underwhelming transfer window.

Summer signings such as Emmanuel Fernandez, Joe Rothwell, Jayden Meghoma, Thelo Aasgaard and others have either made little impact or not impressed so far.

Rangers supporters won’t like this, but they’re going to have to replicate Celtic’s largely successful player trading model, with the side from across the city regularly selling players on for a sizable profit, something the Gers rarely do.

In fairness to them, the Light Blues did manage this with Hamza Igamane who departed this summer, so could an “exciting” new recruit be the next one to follow?

Hamza Igamane's impact at Rangers

When Igamane arrived at Rangers, he was a complete unknown quantity, signing from Botola club AS FAR in his native Morocco for £1.7m.

Well, the young striker certainly impressed during his one season in Govan, scoring 16 goals across all competitions, of which four came in the Europa League, while also bagging a hat-trick against Hibernian at Easter Road back in January.

He will though be most fondly remembered for this thunderous strike at Parkhead in March, snatching a 3-2 Old Firm victory over Celtic during Barry Ferguson’s interim tenure, awarded the club’s goal of the season.

Igamane though did not plan on sticking around in Glasgow, sold to Ligue 1 side LOSC Lille for a reported fee of £10.4m in August, which may prove to be an absolute bargain as far as les Dogues are concerned.

He scored twice on his Ligue 1 debut against Lorient at Stade du Moustoir, netting seven times for Lille to date overall, including three in the Europa League, featuring a brace against PAOK last month.

Meantime, Igamane scored his first two senior goals for Morocco in September, on target during World Cup qualifiers against Niger and Zambia, set to be a key figure in Walid Regragui’s squad for both the Africa Cup of Nations on home soil next month and then the World Cup in the summer.

Consequently, Rangers supporters may actually feel as though they let the striker go on the cheap, albeit there was nothing the club could do once his release clause was met.

So, who could be the Light Blues’ next bargain signing to depart for a huge profit, after exponentially improving his value and reputation at Ibrox?

Rangers' next Hamza Igamane

As already noted, many of Rangers’ summer signings have not impressed, hence why Russell Martin was sacked after just 17 games in charge, while, despite improvements under Danny Röhl, they remain fourth in the Scottish Premiership and rock-bottom of the Europa League standings, still yet to pick up a point.

However, almost inarguably, the best-performing of all their summer recruits has been Djeidi Gassama.

The Mauritania-born French youth international arrived from Sheffield Wednesday for just £2.2m, available at a cut-price given that now-ousted owner Dejphon Chansiri was running the EFL Championship club into the ground at the time, which looks like being a complete bargain, with the table below documenting the winger’s importance.

Minutes

1,733

4th

Goals

6

1st

Assists

2

4th

Shots per 90

2.3

1st

Key passes per 90

0.9

4th

Successful dribbles per 90

1.8

1st

Indeed, only Jack Butland, John Souttar and captain James Tavernier have played more minutes than Gassama so far this season and rightly so.

The Frenchman ranks first when it comes to goals, shots per 90 and successful dribbles per 90, with five of his six goals to date coming in European competition, on target home and away against Panathinaikos, at the double when Viktoria Plzeň visited Glasgow, while also on target in defeat at Sturm Graz.

Upon his arrival, then-manager Martin labelled Gassama an “exciting player who will get supporters on the edge of their seats”, while the winger expressed his delight in being reunited with manager Röhl, who’d also been his boss at Hillsborough, describing the German as “like a father to me”.

Earlier in the campaign, when Rangers’ form was diabolical, former right-back Alan Hutton asserted that Gassama had been their “shining light”, now only likely to get better under Röhl, the coach who kick-started his rise at Sheffield Wednesday.

Well, according to Football Transfers, Gassama’s estimated market value has already increased to around £4.5m, more than double what Rangers paid to sign him.

Scoring goals in Europe will certainly attract interest, proving that the attacker can perform at a higher level than just the Scottish Premiership.

Thus, still only 22 years old, Gassama appears destined to become Rangers’ next Igamane-like sale, while, for now, Röhl has to build a cohesive team to get the best out of his star forward.

Not Chermiti or Miovski: £4.5m flop is one of Rangers' worst ever signings

Rangers recruitment has been poor for many years, so which “insane talent” not Youssef Chermiti nor Bojan Miovski is one of the club’s worst signings.

ByBen Gray Nov 13, 2025

The need for results over the coming weeks has been heightened. Arne Slot made a telling comment on his hopes of Liverpool progressing deep into the Carabao Cup when fielding a much-rotated team with a bench full of youngsters (average age of 19) against Crystal Palace on Wednesday evening.

The Eagles won 3-0, their third win over the Reds this term, and that’s now six losses from seven matches in all competitions for Slot’s side, who are very much in crisis mode.

The Dutch boss had turned his attention toward the daunting run of upcoming fixtures before the opening whistle screeched in midweek, and now there is not an emphasis but an expectation that wins will be struck to stop the rot and turn back toward the compelling title defence that was anticipated after a summer of record-breaking spending.

01/11/25

Premier League

Aston Villa (H)

04/11/25

Champions League

Real Madrid (H)

09/11/25

Premier League

Man City (A)

22/11/25

Premier League

Nott’m Forest (H)

26/11/25

Champions League

PSV (H)

If we can take a sliver of optimism from this abject run of form, it’s that, having played an overload of matches away from home, four of the next five take place down Anfield Road, having lost on home soil to Palace on Wednesday too.

There simply has to be a swift upswing. Looking at it from a wider lens, though, it may well be that some Redmen have entered the final phase of their careers on Merseyside.

The Liverpool players Hughes needs to sell

Sporting director Richard Hughes was lauded after his emphatic summer transfer window, overseeing a staggering rebuild at Liverpool after Slot defied expectations to win the Premier League in his first year at the helm.

But the summer upheaval has sent it all in a bit of a spin. Still. Though we must reserve judgement on under-firing newbies such as Milos Kerkez and Florian Wirtz, there are certain veterans at the club who aren’t pulling their weight.

Take, for example, Joe Gomez, who is Liverpool’s longest-serving player but now shows the rust of a man who has been afforded few chances to impress in recent years, with injuries and superiorities elsewhere in defence keeping him on the fringe.

Against Palace, the England international struggled to impress, lacking any semblance of command in a backline that was without the calming presence of Virgil van Dijk.

Minutes played

90′

Goals conceded

3

Errors made

1

Touches

92

Accurate passes

69/76 (91%)

Possession lost

9x

Recoveries

5

Tackles

1/1

Interceptions

3

Clearances

8

Ground duels

1/3

Aerial duels

3/4

Wataru Endo has been something of a stalwart since arriving at the club for a smart fee in 2023, but the 32-year-old’s role has diminished as his time in England has dragged on.

Stodgy athleticism and limitations on the ball have kept the Japan captain from being anything more than a tackle-first substitute under Slot’s wing, and now it appears he is approaching the end of an illustrious couple of years in Liverpool, unable to offer a viable solution at number six.

Liverpool should have better options in the middle of the park, in any case, but that doesn’t appear to be so as the 2025/26 campaign rolls into its fourth month.

The Liverpool midfielder who's failing Slot

We’ve been here before. Jurgen Klopp’s injury-hit Premier League champions were overwhelmed across the 2020/21 campaign, and scrambled to salvage Champions League football toward the end of the term.

But the deterioration of 2022/23 was more concerning, with the likes of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho flattering to deceive in the middle of the park. The Reds needed to rebuild, and so fashioned together the title-winning engine room of the past few years.

The standout of that rebuild has been Alexis Mac Allister, instrumental to lifting Liverpool back off the ground in 2023/24, after joining from Brighton for around £35m, and then revelling in winning the Premier League last season.

Now, he’s fallen off a proverbial cliff, with his sedentary performances in midfield not those of an elite, robust midfielder. One Liverpool content creator actually said it “looks like Fabinho’s season”, when the Brazilian slumped from his formerly imperious level as the midfield anchor, his legs gone.

Goals

0.17

0.00

Assists

0.17

0.19

Touches

64.41

63.09

Pass completion (%)

83.5

83.5

Shot-creating actions

4.16

2.84

Progressive passes

6.13

3.60

Progressive carries

1.25

2.27

Successful take-ons

0.55

0.00

Ball recoveries

5.13

4.74

Tackles & interceptions

4.05

2.65

The data does suggest that Mac Allister lacks his former vim and vigour, but given that he is only 26 years old and regarded as a “superstar” of a midfielder, as has been said by pundit Joe Cole, this is deeply worrying for those of a red persuasion.

For Fabinho, though only 29 at the time of his £40m transfer to Al-Ittihad, had played 219 high-octane, turbo-charged matches as the heartbeat of Klopp’s Liverpool team, and going from 1.25 carries per game in his first season in England to an average of only 0.51 in 2022/23 emphasises his loss of athleticism.

For a player of Mac Allister’s all-encompassing midfield quality, it’s imperative that Slot gets a tune out of him once again. If the Argentine does not click into gear this season, Liverpool will struggle to hit their stride.

There will be an expectation around Anfield that Mac Allister’s dip in form is not permanent, and that he’s back on his A-game before long.

However, this startling drop-off dredges up unwanted memories of Fabinho’s own fall from grace at Anfield, and Slot will be gravely hoping that lightning hasn’t struck twice on the Liverpool squad.

Another Chiesa: Slot's treatment of Liverpool star is a "sackable offence"

Liverpool have a shrewd solution to one of their biggest problems this season.

ByAngus Sinclair Oct 30, 2025

Are things in danger of unravelling at Tottenham Hotspur?

Let’s cast our minds back to the Ange Postecoglou era. It all began at a rip-roaring pace before the Aussies’ chaotic team were found out.

Is the same now happening to Thomas Frank’s team? The Dane was enjoying a pretty perfect first few months in the hot seat and with Daniel Levy gone, a promising new era beckoned.

Yet, in recent months, results have not been up to scratch. Spurs have won just two of their last eight games in all competitions, and since their impressive 3-0 win over Everton a week ago, have endured a wretched week.

The Lilywhites crashed out of the Carabao Cup at the expense of Newcastle and then turned in arguably their worst performance of the Frank era to date in their 1-0 defeat to Chelsea.

So bad were Spurs that Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher simply said as the game neared its end that they had been “absolutely awful”.

To make matters worse, clips emerged post-game showing two Spurs players walking straight past the manager at full-time.

That being said, at the front of their woes is the marquee summer signing, Xavi Simons.

Why Xavi Simons is struggling at Spurs

What a peculiar summer Spurs had. The big focus, particularly after James Maddison’s injury, was to sign a creative force.

They missed out on Premier League-proven talents in the shape of Morgan Gibbs-White and Eberechi Eze and were forced to turn their attentions elsewhere. How they must wish they’d got one of Gibbs-White or Eze.

Simons has been a wonderful talent out in the Bundesliga but much like fellow attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz, has really struggled to make an impact in English football.

The Dutchman has failed to score across 12 outings in Spurs colours and has just one assist to show for his efforts.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

While there have been flickers of brilliance, he is clearly struggling with the physicality of the league and is suffering from the lack of time you are given on the ball.

That was particularly notable during the 1-0 loss to Chelsea on Saturday evening, perhaps the nadir of Simons’ time in north London to date.

The Netherlands international wasn’t initially selected to start the game but was thrust into the action after just seven minutes when Lucas Bergvall went off injured.

To sum up his woes, Simons was then withdrawn from the action with 17 minutes of normal time to go.

He trudged off the pitch having not completed a key pass or provided an accurate cross. He also gave away possession 15 times and completed a solitary dribble from three attempts.

Aged just 22, Simons does at least have time on his side but he will need to improve quickly. Another of Spurs’ big underperformers may not be quite so fortuitous as far as time is concerned.

Spurs underperformer is as big of a problem as Simons

While the summer signing has become a large issue for Frank in recent weeks, so has one of the club’s most experienced players; Pedro Porro.

Donning the captain’s armband, more should be expected of the Spaniard but the fact of the matter is that his form is waning under the new regime.

While Porro has never been the most awe-inspiring from a defensive point of view, it’s not just been that aspect of his game to let him down in 2025/26.

Handed a 4/10 rating post-game by football.london, they wrote that he ‘struggled to make things happen with his passing loose for much of the encounter’.

Minutes played

73

Accurate passes

18/30 (60%)

Key passes

0

Accurate crosses

0/6

Touches

51

Possession lost

23x

Shots

0

Tackles

0

Interceptions

0

Recoveries

2

Duels won

3/7

That was certainly showcased in the stats with the full-back not impressing in many of his duties at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

He dismally completed just 60% of his passes, ceding possession on 23 occasions. The Spain international also failed to complete a tackle or make an interception.

It’s safe to say he didn’t leave a strong impression on the fanbase with one Spurs content creator describing it as Porro’s “worst performance in a long time.” Quite.

So, as Frank’s side get ready to face Copenhagen in midweek, perhaps it would be advantageous to drop Porro, moving Djed Spence to right back and bringing Destiny Udogie back in at left-back.

Enzo Maresca has been handed a major injury update on the condition of one of his injured Chelsea stars after a renewed timeline on his return.

Chelsea's injury list as Blues suffer Club World Cup consequences

Maresca’s side, given their involvement in the Club World Cup and European competition last term, were forced to play a combined total of 64 games across 24/25.

Chelsea’s triumph at the CWC yielded around £84 million in prize money and their Conference League win handed Chelsea a first major trophy since their Champions League title in 2021, becoming the first club in history to win all five European competitions recorded (Champions League, Europa League, Conference League, Super Cup, and Cup Winners’ Cup).

However, while history was made, their massive number of games appears to be having dire consequences for this season as key first-team stars struggle with injuries and fitness issues.

Enzo Fernández became the latest player to sustain a problem when he withdrew from international duty with Argentina. The midfielder has inflammation in his right knee, and it remains to be seen whether he’ll be fit for Chelsea’s Premier League return against Nottingham Forest this weekend.

The £180,000-per-week star could join Cole Palmer, Dario Essugo, Liam Delap and Levi Colwill on the treatment table, with Andrey Santos and Tosin Adarabioyo also doubts to face Forest after not being spotted in any of the training photos released by Chelsea this week.

The duo both missed Chelsea’s 2-1 win over Liverpool, with supporters forced to wait and find out whether they can play at the City Ground.

Enzo Fernández

Knee

Unknown

Cole Palmer

Groin

November

Andrey Santos

Knock

Unknown

Tosin Adarabioyo

Calf

Nottingham Forest

Dario Essugo

Thigh

Early 2026

Liam Delap

Hamstring

November

Levi Colwill

ACL

Spring 2026

via Standard Sport

Delap’s injury was particularly disappointing, as the striker signed from Ipswich last summer was brought on to spearhead Maresca’s forward line as Chelsea’s main vocal point of attack.

The former Man City starlet enjoyed an exceptional 2024/2025 at Portman Road, but a hamstring injury has forced Delap to wait patiently on the sidelines as he battles his way back to contention.

Chelsea handed major Liam Delap injury update amid renewed timeline

However, according to journalist Simon Phillips, Delap could now return from his Chelsea injury sooner than expected.

The 22-year-old scored 12 Premier League goals last season, which was impressive considering he plied his trade for a team who underperformed and were relegated.

Delap’s early return from injury is set to be a huge boost for Chelsea.

The young centre-forward, who got off the mark for Maresca’s side at the CWC with a goal against Esperance, has shown great promise already with his physicality, sharp movement and clinical finishing — making him an invaluable attacking option.

His presence will add a different dimension to the team’s frontline, capable of holding up play and linking effectively with Chelsea’s creative midfielders. The team have also often lacked a reliable finisher to capitalize on chances, and Delap could really help to solve this problem.

Manchester United’s squad at present is full of top-level talent in numerous areas of the pitch, but Ruben Amorim has so far struggled to make use of the players at his disposal.

The hierarchy have constantly splashed the cash in recent years, with over £200m being spent on new attacking talents during the recent summer transfer window.

The likes of Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha all made the move to Old Trafford, but they have only posted a total of eight Premier League goals combined in 2025/26.

Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system has seen Mbeumo operate in a somewhat unnatural central attacking midfield role, no doubt taking away his best asset – cutting inside off the right-hand side – away from him.

As a result, one player has indirectly suffered this campaign, with the manager recently coming under fire for his lack of faith shown in the player over recent months.

The latest on Kobbie Mainoo’s Man Utd future

Just a couple of years ago, Kobbie Mainoo was a key member of the United first-team squad, with the midfielder often starting at the heart of Erik ten Hag’s side.

He emerged out of the club’s academy setup, often popping up with key moments, as seen by his incredible achievements during the 2023/24 campaign.

The 20-year-old scored a late winner in the clash against Wolverhampton Wanderers, whilst also netting in the FA Cup final against Manchester City – resulting in a place in the England squad for Euro 2024.

However, his career has taken a nosedive over the last 12 months, with Amorim evidently not seeing the academy graduate as part of his long-term plans at Old Trafford.

Mainoo has featured in nine league matches to date, none of which have come from a starting role, leading to one journalist questioning the manager over the midfielder after yesterday’s draw.

The 40-year-old simply laughed when asked about bringing the youngster on to try and win the game at the Theatre of Dreams, which sums up the faith he currently has in him at present.

However, an escape route could well be on the cards for Mainoo ahead of the January transfer window, with Napoli constantly tracking the Englishman over a potential transfer.

The Man Utd player that Amorim is misusing in 2025/26

The reluctance to utilise Mainoo in 2025/26 is just one of Amorim’s biggest failures to date, with the youngster massively deserving the chance to thrive under his guidance.

However, his recent spell on the substitutes bench highlights the lack of faith shown in him by the manager, with a solution desperately needed in the coming months.

The same could also be said about numerous other players, as seen by the struggles endured within the final third of the pitch over the last couple of matches in the Premier League.

Mbeumo has now failed to find the back of the net in each of his last three outings, but the forward is set to go to AFCON throughout January, which could leave a huge hole in the Red Devils’ attack.

His month-long spell away from Manchester could open up the door for Bruno Fernandes to once again feature in the number ten position – a role that is no doubt his best.

The Portuguese international operated in an attacking midfield role during 2024/25, resulting in the 31-year-old registering 37 combined goals and assists across all competitions.

However, the £200m spending spree in attacking areas has resulted in the United captain dropping into a deep-lying number eight position, which has taken away his creative nature in recent months.

He still currently has a total of five assists in his 14 appearances this campaign, but there’s little denying he’s endured a drop-off from his form last season.

Bruno, who’s been dubbed United’s “best player post Fergie” by writer Kaustubh Pandey, has now had to contribute more defensively, as seen by his increased tally of tackles won per 90 compared to last season.

However, whilst he’s still managed to play a part in winning the ball back for his side, it’s come with an adverse effect – subsequently resulting in a lack of creativity in attacking areas.

He’s only scored twice in the Premier League to date, one of which was a penalty, highlighting his lack of impact in terms of goal contributions in 2025/26.

Games played

14

Goals scored

2

Pass accuracy

83%

Shots on target

0.7

Chances created

1.8

Tackles won

1.8

Duels won

4.6

Interceptions made

0.6

It’s clear to everyone but Amorim that the Portuguese star is better in an attacking role, which means one of the £200m additions may need to be sacrificed.

Such a move could open up a free role at the heart of the Red Devils side, which could allow Mainoo to have the run of games he needs to save his United career

However, if Amorim is unable to make such changes in the near future, it could result in the 40-year-old losing his job at Old Trafford in the near future – with such a decision an easy one for him to make.

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