Tag Futebol

Rayan Cherki delivered a masterclass in skills to inspire Manchester City to a 3-0 win over Sunderland which showed they mean business in the title race. The Frenchman produced the moment of the game by serving up a header for Phil Foden with an outrageous rabona straight from the streets of Lyon, crowning a dominant win for Pep Guardiola's side after goals from Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol.

City were lifted before kick off by Aston Villa's dramatic win over Arsenal. They struggled to get going in the face of an expectedly stubborn gameplan from the visitors, who had lost only one of their previous seven games and were seventh in the table when the game kicked off. Haaland barely saw the ball, let alone a shooting opportunity, in the opening half an hour while Foden and Bernardo Silva both missed the target.

Having seen their more elaborate attempts to break down Sunderland come to nothing, Dias broke the deadlock in the 31st minute with a no-nonsense strike from 30 yards out which went flying into the top corner with the help of a deflection. The hosts suddenly started playing with a lot more confidence and moments later they were 2-0 up, Gvardiol rising highest to head home Foden's corner.

City had squandered a two-goal advantage in their last home game against Leeds and turned a four-goal lead over Fulham in mid-week to a narrow win by a single strike. They had a couple of nervy moments in the second half, including Granit Xhaka hammering the post and Gianluigi Donnarumma saving from Wilson Isidor from point-blank range.

But Cherki's show-stopping moment, which prompted Foden to run straight towards him in gratitude, ensured City took all the points. And they are now breathing down Arsenal's necks, having cut their seven-point gap behind the Gunners from two weeks ago to just two points.

A miserable afternoon for Sunderland was compounded when Luke O'Nien was shown a straight red card in injury time, four minutes after coming off the bench, for a studs-up tackle on Matheus Nunes.

GOAL rates Man City's players from the Etihad Stadium…

• Getty Images Sport
  

  Goalkeeper & Defence

  Gianluigi Donnarumma (7/10):

  Made himself big to thwart Wilson Isidor from close range and bail out Dias. His kicking early in the game had been questionable but it's big saves like that which vindicate City's decision to buy him.

  Matheus Nunes (6/10):

  A pretty solid display defensively although his crossing left something to be desired.

  Ruben Dias (6/10):

  Had the audacity to shoot from so far out and was rewarded for it, even withstanding the deflection. Nearly cancelled out his goal by lacking awareness in his box when he was mugged by Isidor but Donnarumma came to the rescue.

  Josko Gvardiol (7/10):

  Defended astutely to ensure there was no repeat of the mad second halves against Leeds and Fulham and played his part in attack. Chipped a pass to Haaland in the first half and then scored a second goal in three games with an athletic leap and bullet header.

  Nico O'Reilly (6/10):

  An energetic display spent more in Sunderland's half than his own.

Advertisement

• Getty Images Sport
  

  Midfield

  Bernardo Silva (7/10):

  Much better from him compared to recent weeks as he conducted the play with some expert passing.

  Nico Gonzalez (7/10):

  A towering display through the middle, getting the better of Xhaka.

  Phil Foden (7/10):

  Had a frustrating first half but was much better after the break, scoring his fifth goal in three league games and dovetailing nicely with Cherki.

• Getty Images Sport
  

  Attack

  Rayan Cherki (9/10):

  City's 'free soul' (in Guardiola's words) was in his element here, feeling empowered to try the most audacious of tricks. He laid the ball on for Dias's goal, then produced his ridiculous assist for Foden. He could have had two more assists had Tijjani Reijnders or Haaland had their shooting boots on and he was only denied a goal of his own by a fine Robin Roefs save.

  Erling Haaland (5/10):

  Barely made himself visible, taking just two touches in the first half. Got one opening after fleet footwork from Cherki but sent a tame shot straight at Roefs.

  Jeremy Doku (7/10):

  Caused Sunderland no end of worries with his quick footwork and runs inside, even if none of his trickery actually led to goals.

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

• Getty Images Sport
  

  Subs & Manager

  Nathan Ake (6/10):

  A competent 20-minute performance after replacing Gvardiol.

  Tijjani Reijnders (5/10):

  Really should have scored when he missed the near post after a lovely ball from Cherki.

  Omar Marmoush (5/10):

  Had an air-shot when he failed to connect with Cherki's cross.

  Savinho (N/A):

  Replaced Cherki in the 82nd minute.

  Rico Lewis (N/A):

  Allowed Bernardo a breather by coming on in the 82nd minute.

  Pep Guardiola (7/10):

  Enjoyed his most comfortable 90 minutes in a while as his side kept their composure after a frustrating start and then easily held onto their advantage. His warning a few weeks ago that 'no one wins the title in November' feels particularly insightful now. 

Mohamed Salah's critical comments about Liverpool and manager Arne Slot have been slammed as "embarrassing". After the 33-year-old was an unused substitute in his side's 3-3 draw at Leeds United on Saturday, he claimed he had been "thrown under the bus" by the Reds. However, ex-Celtic striker Chris Sutton believes the Egypt international has "disrespected" his team-mates with his remarks.

• Salah 'thrown under the bus'

  In the wake of a thrilling draw at Elland Road, the former Roma man said he no longer has a good relationship with Slot, and it is "very clear" someone wants him to "get all of the blame". He added that he will always support the Merseyside outfit but this situation is "not acceptable" and that he earned his position in the team.

  In a remarkable interview with journalists after the match, Salah said: "I think it is very clear that someone wanted me to get all of the blame. I said many times before that I had a good relationship with the manager, and all of a sudden we don't have any relationship. I don't know why but it seems to me, how I see it, that someone doesn't want me in the club. It seems like the club has thrown me under the bus. That is how I am feeling. I think it is very clear that someone wanted me to get all of the blame. This club, I will always support it. My kids will always support it. I love the club so much and I always will. It [the situation] is not acceptable to me, to be fair. I don't get it. It's like I'm being thrown more under the bus. I don't think I'm the problem. I have done so much for this club. I don't have to go every day fighting for my position because I earned it. I am not bigger than anyone but I earned my position. It's football. It is what it is."

Advertisement

• AFP
  

  Salah thinks he's 'too good to be dropped'

  Last season, Salah played a huge role in Liverpool romping to the Premier League title as he scored 29 goals and bagged 18 assists in 38 appearances. This term, however, has been a different story. The Egyptian forward has scored four goals and added two assists in 13 league outings at a time when the Reds' form has nosedived. Salah has not come off the bench in two of their last three league games and it seems that he thinks he is unfairly being singled out by manager Slot. Sutton, however, has no sympathy for him. 

  He tweeted on Saturday night: "Embarrassing from Mo Salah and disrespectful to his team-mates and his manager. Salah is no different from any other player … if a player’s form drops as Salah’s has he is the same as anyone else and has to accept being benched… but he thinks he’s too good to be benched sadly…"

• Salah in another bombshell interview

  In November 2024, Salah told reporters that he was "probably more out than in" as his contract ticked down into its final eight months. This prompted Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher to call him "selfish".

  "I must say I am very disappointed with Mo Salah. Liverpool have Real Madrid midweek [in the Champions League] and Man City at the weekend. That's the story right now. If he keeps putting comments out, his agent puts out cryptic messages, that is selfish. That is thinking about themselves and not the football club," he said. 

  Last month, Carragher said he only ever hears from Salah – who eventually signed a new two-year deal earlier in 2025 – when he wins a Man of the Match award or when he wants a new contract. Now, it seems the Sky Sports pundit's prediction has come true following the veteran's latest outburst. 

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

• AFP
  

  What comes next for Salah?

  Unless Salah is brought back into Liverpool's starting lineup soon, this could lead to a parting of ways between him and Slot's team. The January window is fast approaching, potentially giving both parties a chance to cut ties. However, manager Slot is under pressure to keep his job, so perhaps Salah is waiting to see how that unfolds. The Dutchman is likely to be quizzed on this topic ahead of their trip to Inter Milan on Tuesday in the Champions League.

Mauricio Pochettino faces plenty of selection posers ahead of the 2026 World Cup, with the USMNT looking to piece together a squad that can be competitive on the grandest of stages. They will need plenty of firepower in order to make that possible, with Brad Friedel discussing a striker pool that includes Folarin Balogun, Haji Wright, Ricardo Pepi and Josh Sargent during an exclusive interview with GOAL.

• Talent pool: Striking options at Pochettino's disposal

  Pochettino has shuffled his pack across a series of friendly fixtures, allowing him to take a look at as many hopefuls as possible. Some of those have staked more serious claims than others, while form and fitness issues also have to be factored into any equation.

  The United States do, however, have a number of proven goalscorers at their disposal. Many of those are plying their trade in Europe – with Balogun and Pepi on the books of French and Dutch giants at Monaco and PSV respectively. Elsewhere, the likes of Wright, Sargent, Daryl Dike and Patrick Agyemang are all turning out in the English Championship.

Advertisement

• Getty
  

  Who will make the USMNT squad for 2026 World Cup?

  Quizzed on whether only one of those will join Balogun and Pepi in Pochettino’s plans, ex-USMNT star Friedel – speaking in association with – told GOAL: “It could be two. When Mauricio came in he knew the players, but he has this incredible ability to say: ‘Show me from now and forward what you can do for me – not what you did two years ago. I know what you did two years ago, I know what you’re capable of, but it’s what’s happening now’.

  “I think he has a depth chart for sure, that’s how he works. None of those names are for sure – who you and I might think are there. We can think Balogun and Pepi might be there, but one of those guys might be really far down the final chart for reasons that we don’t know. I think Balogun is there – that’s my thinking – but I don’t know if Pepi is a certainty. He could be there, he has every chance.

  “Haji Wright’s performances at Coventry have been really good. But when Haji is in, he doesn’t start all the time with Mauricio, so that suggests to me there is something there that he is not fully convinced about.

  “With Mauricio it’s different. You can never just relax. He’s a compassionate man and you can relax around him, but you never really know. I suppose Harry Kane knew at Tottenham. [Lionel] Messi, Neymar and [Kylian] Mbappe probably knew at PSG. I would say that zero players knew at Southampton that they were starting on a day-to-day basis. Your name has to be something quite special to make sure that you are a certainty.”

• Transfer regret: Should Sargent have left Norwich?

  Sargent appeared to have positioned himself towards the front of the queue at one stage, having posted personal bests on the goal front at Norwich, but the Canaries are enduring a tough 2025-26 campaign and their leading marksman has gone 14 games without finding the target.

  The 25-year-old attracted Premier League interest over the summer, but did not push for a move while being tied to a contract at Carrow Road through to 2028. Asked whether Sargent will now be regretting that decision, Friedel said: “Maybe. It might not have been down to him, but I think that would have helped. The more that you can perform at the highest level, the better.

  “Maybe one of the things was that if he went to the Premier League and then didn’t perform as well, then you can see that argument. It may have been out of his hands. I don’t know the full reason why a deal didn’t transpire. Maybe the teams offered him a low contract, thinking that just because it’s a Prem club he will come.

  “Josh knows now the league, the teams and knows where he feels he can play. He could play at a handful of Premier League clubs with his talent. There are a handful that he couldn’t play at, but there are some that he could.”

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

• Getty Images Sport
  

  World Cup draw: USMNT to discover group stage opponents

  Sargent is likely to generate more transfer talk in the January window. He will know by then who the USMNT are preparing to face in the group stage of the 2026 World Cup, with that draw set to take place at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC on December 5.

Achraf Hakimi was crowned African Player of the Year in Rabat after a stunning season with Paris Saint-Germain, edging Mohamed Salah and Victor Osimhen to the honour. The award sparked an emotional tribute from his close friend Kylian Mbappe, who hailed him as “The King of Africa” in a heartfelt message. Their bond, built at PSG and sustained despite career moves, shone through once again.

Hakimi crowed African player of the year triumph

The Moroccan international Hakimi sealed one of the biggest individual honours of his career as he was named African Player of the Year at the CAF Awards 2025 in Rabat. Hakimi, who enjoyed a remarkable 2024-25 campaign with PSG, finished ahead of Liverpool icon Salah and Osimhen to claim the trophy for the first time. It also marked a symbolic moment of recognition for a player who has spent years climbing among the sport’s elite.

Hosted at the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, the ceremony saw Hakimi become only the fifth Moroccan player to lift the award, bringing pride to his home supporters in the nation's capital. The defender had already been one of the star performers of the season, winning the Champions League, another Ligue 1 title, the Coupe de France and the UEFA Super Cup with PSG.

Hakimi, who recently recovered from a severe ankle sprain suffered after a brutal Champions League tackle, arrived at the ceremony on a scoote, a moment that grabbed the attention of supporters and underlined his determination to be present despite his injury. He said on stage: "It's really an honour for me to be here today and I'm proud to win such a prestigious trophy. This trophy, it's not just for me, it's for all the strong men and women that have dreams in Africa and those that dream of becoming footballers."

AdvertisementAFP'The king of Africa' – Mbappe's message for Hakimi

Moments after Hakimi lifted the trophy, Mbappe posted one of the most viral messages of the night on Instagram. The Real Madrid star forward shared a photo of Hakimi holding the golden ball and wrote: “I love you, my brother. King of Africa. Well done, my brother, it is a more than deserved award.”

The Frenchman doubled down on the emotional tone by adding Moroccan flag emojis, reinforcing the close bond they have maintained since their time together at PSG between 2021 and 2024. Their friendship was forged during three seasons at the Parc des Princes, where they were frequently seen celebrating goals together, travelling on holidays, or supporting each other publicly.

Mbappe’s tribute was also telling because Hakimi had finished ahead of him in the recent Ballon d’Or rankings, yet he showed nothing but admiration, a sign of the deep respect between the two. Despite now playing for different clubs, their connection remains one of the strongest personal relationships in elite football.

PSG years and Morocco legacy

Hakimi's success is the culmination of years of consistent excellence for both club and country. At PSG, he became one of Europe’s most complete full-backs, combining blistering pace with elite defensive instincts and a growing maturity as a leader. His Champions League triumph last season capped an extraordinary run where he delivered big performances in high-pressure moments.

Internationally, Hakimi remains the beating heart of the Moroccan national team, and he was a central figure in their historic march to the 2022 World Cup semi-finals, where the Atlas Lions became the first African team to ever reach that stage. His leadership has only grown since then, with head coach Walid Regragui relying heavily on him both on and off the pitch.

The defender is currently recovering from a severely sprained ankle but remains hopeful of returning in time for the Africa Cup of Nations, which Morocco will host. For Hakimi, lifting the AFCON trophy on home soil would be one of the ultimate milestones of his career.

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

AFPWhat's next for Hakimi

Hakimi’s immediate priority is his recovery, with Morocco preparing to host AFCON from December 21. The full-back is expected to resume light training soon, but his final fitness will be monitored closely. Morocco have not won the competition since 1976, and Hakimi’s presence could be decisive in determining whether the hosts can finally break their decades-long wait.

For Mbappe, who continues his impressive start of the 2025 season at Real Madrid, the moment highlighted his leadership and the strong personal relationships he maintains across the footballing world. Madrid face a packed schedule across La Liga, the Champions League and the Club World Cup, but the French star continues to be a central figure for both club and country.

Richarlison could now make a sensational return to Everton in the January transfer window amid reports that The Friedkin Group are ready to back David Moyes this winter.

The American owners went all in on the Everton boss in the summer, spending big to welcome Thierno Barry, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Jack Grealish and making Tyler Dibling their second most expensive signing of all time. It was a summer fit for a side about to enter a grand new home.

But Friedkin aren’t done there. Reports are now suggesting that they’re looking to solve Everton’s striker problems in 2026 following the struggles of both Beto and summer arrival Barry.

The £27m striker has particularly disappointed. After scoring 19 goals in all competitions at Villarreal last season, he is yet to find the back of the net at Everton. His struggles have also been made worse by Beto’s poor performances.

The towering forward has scored twice in 11 games to once again highlight the Toffees’ struggles in that role. It’s something that Friedkin must solve if they want Moyes’ side to compete in the top-half.

To that end, a number of names have emerged as potential options. Everton’s scouts were reportedly in attendance for Galatasaray’s recent Champions League clash against Bodo/Glimt and watched on as Victor Osimhen netted a brace. There’s no doubt that the Nigerian would hand them the ultimate solution to their problems.

Everton's £45k-p/w talent is now giving "Pienaar 2.0 vibes" under Moyes

Everton have already hit the jackpot on this talented first-teamer.

By
Angus Sinclair

Oct 29, 2025

Ivan Toney has also been in the headlines. The Al-Ahli forward is aware that he’ll likely need a January switch to the Premier League if he is to get into Thomas Tuchel’s England squad and reportedly wants to work with Moyes. Whether those at the Hill Dickinson Stadium are willing to match his hefty salary is another question, however.

Instead, a familiar face could yet be on his way back to Merseyside.

How Richarlison feels about Everton return

According to TeamTalk, Richarlison would now jump at the chance to join Everton in the January transfer window in what would be quite the return. The Tottenham striker has been forced to watch on from the bench in the last three Premier League games and may need to move on if he wants consistent minutes.

That’s where Everton could come in. Friedkin are ready to go all in for Moyes in January and he desperately needs an impressive striker to lead the line – something Richarlison has been for the Toffees in the past.

Richarlison	Everton record
Appearances	152
Goals	53
Assists	15

Whether Spurs boss Thomas Frank will be open to losing his forward is another question, however.

The Dane told reporters after Richarlison got off to an excellent start earlier this season: “Fantastic he is scoring. The first one is definitely easier to score without being easy, but I have a striker that takes those two chances and helps us win the game.

“He deserves a lot of praise. He was very good against PSG and today he was exceptional, with his work-rate, driving the team, link-up play, hold-up play, just dominating and then the two finishes.

“So happy on his behalf and again performance department, medical department did a top job to build him.”

Everton's most expensive sales

Many Rangers supporters want to see sporting director Kevin Thelwell replaced, and now a big claim has emerged regarding his position of power at Ibrox.

Thelwell feeling the heat at Rangers

The Gers’ 3-0 defeat away to Brann in the Europa League on Thursday has done little to silence the dissenting voices, with Danny Rohl experiencing a sobering life in charge at Ibrox. It is hard to blame the German, but this will only increase the magnitude of the job being asked of him.

There are high-profile characters galore at Rangers who are under huge pressure, including sporting director Thelwell, with former defender David Weir mentioned as an option to replace him by Heart & Hand.

There is no doubt that Thelwell hasn’t hit the ground running in his role, having arrived from Everton at the end of last season, and unless something drastic changes, it is hard to see him remaining in the job for too long.

The same applies to chairman Andrew Cavenegh and CEO Patrick Stewart, and now a big claim has dropped that highlights the level of power Thelwell has at Rangers at the moment.

Thelwell influencing team decisions at Ibrox

Speaking on Hotline Live [Ibrox News], journalist Keith Jackson claimed that Thelwell actually helped pick Rangers’ starting XI against Dundee United last weekend, and may have also influenced the line-up vs Brann.

“What I’ve heard, whether it’s right or wrong, but I suspect it’s correct – I think Thelwell had a hand in picking the team at the weekend when Steven Smith was in charge. Would it surprise me if there was a little bit of influence from the sporting director in that lineup (vs Brann)? Not in the slightest.”

This update perfectly illustrates the control Thelwell has at Rangers, and many will feel that him picking the team at home to Dundee United only undermined the job that Smith was doing. Not only that, but the Gers failed to win the game, falling further behind Scottish Premiership leaders Hearts in the process.

The 51-year-old Englishman has a huge amount to do if he is to win round the masses, and despite only being sporting director for a matter of months, the writing is arguably already on the wall for him, having blown a huge amount of money on the struggling

Youssef Chermiti and decimated the defensive ranks in the transfer window.

Rangers now told to replace Kevin Thelwell with "recruitment mastermind"

Would this be an upgrade for the Gers?

1 ByHenry Jackson Oct 24, 2025

Thelwell’s biggest hope of staying on at Rangers is enjoying a strong working relationship with Rohl, and helping oversee massive improvements on and off the pitch, but even then, his critics are unlikely to go away any time soon.

Roy Keane has slammed Liverpool supporters for booing Trent Alexander-Arnold on his first return to Anfield since joining Real Madrid, accusing them of lacking 'class' after jeering a player who gave 'his everything' to the club. The Manchester United legend was left 'shocked' by the treatment of the local hero, who was booed throughout his late cameo in Los Blancos' Champions League defeat.

Alexander-Arnold booed on Liverpool return

Alexander-Arnold endured a frosty reception on his return to Anfield as a Real Madrid player on Tuesday night, with Liverpool supporters loudly booing their former academy star when he came off the bench late in the Champions League tie. The 27-year-old right-back, who left Liverpool last summer after running down his contract, was introduced in the 80th minute but was greeted with jeers from sections of the home crowd, though a few fans were also seen applauding his appearance. The mixed response highlighted lingering resentment among fans who were angered by his decision to depart on a free transfer to Madrid, forcing the club to accept a nominal £10 million fee to release him early.

The tension surrounding his return had been building all week, especially after his mural near Anfield was vandalised with white paint and graffiti branding him a “rat.” The mural, depicting his reaction to Liverpool’s 2019 Champions League triumph, was defaced ahead of Real Madrid’s visit, setting the tone for an emotionally charged night. Supporters also loudly backed current right-back Conor Bradley, who starred in Alexander-Arnold’s old position during Liverpool’s 1-0 victory.

Despite the hostile atmosphere, Alexander-Arnold appeared composed, declining to react to the crowd as he entered the pitch and later telling reporters he would “always love the club” regardless of how he was received. However, the booing sparked debate among pundits, with Roy Keane and Jamie Carragher clashing over whether Liverpool fans were justified in their response to one of their homegrown heroes.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportRoy Keane blasts Liverpool fans for jeering TAA

Keane was quick to condemn Liverpool supporters for their reaction, questioning the club’s long-standing reputation for having “classy” and loyal fans. “The reputation of Liverpool fans is that they are loyal and a level up from most supporters,” Keane said on Stick to Football. “Whatever anyone else says, I think for any player to go back with the service he gave — his contract was up — to boo him, I find that really poor.”

The former Manchester United captain went on to highlight Alexander-Arnold’s achievements at the club, insisting that the defender deserved respect after nearly a decade of service. “Why would you go to a match and boo a lad who has played 260 or 270 games? His stats are fantastic, he’s helped the club win two Premier League titles and a Champions League,” Keane argued. “You don’t have to wish him luck at Madrid, but to go out of your way to boo him — for a local lad — Liverpool fans have to have a good look at themselves.”

Keane also praised Alexander-Arnold’s quiet conduct throughout his final months at Anfield, contrasting it with players who make public declarations of loyalty before leaving. “The beauty with Trent over the last year or two is that he’s said very little,” he added. “He’s not gone around saying, ‘I love this club, I’ll stay forever.’ He kept his head down, didn’t play games with the fans. Sometimes that’s the best thing you can do.”

Getty ImagesCarragher 'understands' Liverpool fans' frustrations with TAA

Carragher, who spent his entire career at Liverpool, had already expected the kind of reaction Reds fans would eventually have on Alexander-Arnold's return. However, the former centre-back had a very different opinion compared to Keane: "Supporters decide what type of reaction he gets. The reason why it will be poor is because Trent, throughout those 20 years, has played the position of ‘I’m a supporter on the pitch,’” Carragher said earlier in the week. “The supporters in the stadium wouldn’t leave on a free transfer and go and play for Real Madrid.”

Carragher pointed to Alexander-Arnold’s silence in the months leading up to his exit as a source of fan anger, arguing that it created a sense of betrayal among the Anfield faithful. “If what he’s said before — that Liverpool is the only team for him and he wants to be a legend here — was true, then you don’t leave when you’ve just won the league title and can go on to win more,” he explained. “A lot of fans feel they’ve been hoodwinked because Trent stayed quiet while others like Salah and Van Dijk publicly stated they wanted to stay.”

The former Reds vice-captain acknowledged that the defender had every right to pursue a new challenge but maintained that the timing and manner of his departure were always going to sting. “He’s been brilliantly successful and he’s entitled to do what’s right for his career,” Carragher added. “But you can’t be surprised if supporters feel hurt — it’s emotional, especially when you’ve come through the academy and represented the club your whole life.”

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

Getty ImagesConor Bradley shows up Alexander-Arnold on his Anfield return

The fallout from Alexander-Arnold’s Anfield return looks set to continue, with debate raging over how Liverpool supporters handled the situation. While many fans insist their reaction was born out of frustration at the way he left, others believe the booing tarnished the club’s reputation for class and loyalty.

For Alexander-Arnold, his return ended in disappointment as Real Madrid fell 1-0 in a game dominated by Liverpool. The defender, who has yet to establish himself as a regular starter under Xabi Alonso due to injuries, cut a subdued figure at full-time, applauding the home crowd before leaving the pitch. Despite the cold reception, he is understood to have met privately with several former teammates and staff members after the match, reinforcing his own insistence that he still “loves” the club.

The Reds, meanwhile, seem to have found their Alexander-Arnold replacement in the form of Bradley. Liverpool did sign Jeremie Frimpong to replace the Englishman earlier this summer; however, Bradley has shown that he is better suited to the role, while Frimpong also continues to struggle with fitness.

Celtic moved back to the top of the Scottish Premiership table on Sunday with a 2-1 win over Kilmarnock in the first game after the international break.

Goals from Daizen Maeda and Kelechi Iheanacho sealed all three points for the Hoops, who had found themselves drawing 1-1 heading into stoppage time.

Iheanacho, who came off the bench to make his debut for the club, scored from the penalty spot in the 96th minute to secure the victory for Brendan Rodgers.

Despite the fact that Celtic won the match, there were a few worrying performances across the board for Celtic, who have scored one goal from open play in their last three games in all competitions.

Rodgers has plenty of options to choose in most positions, perhaps apart from centre-forward, and players know that they need to step up and deliver consistent displays to keep their spot in the side.

With this in mind, Reo Hatate is one of the players who needs to up his game in the coming weeks to retain his position in the starting line-up moving forward.

Why Reo Hatate needs to improve his performances

The Japan international failed to impress against Kilmarnock after being selected to start alongside Callum McGregor and Benjamin Nygren in the middle of the park.

Hatate is in the team to be a threat at the top end of the pitch by scoring and creating goals, as a dynamic midfielder who is not the type to sit back and defend.

Unfortunately, the 27-year-old star was fairly anonymous at the top end of the pitch throughout his 70 minutes of game time, with no shots on target and no ‘big chances’ created for his team, per Sofascore.

Since his exceptional goal against Aberdeen, shown in the clip above, near the start of August, Hatate has failed to produce a goal or an assist for the Scottish giants in the middle of the park.

His performances across the two legs against Kairat, in which Celtic failed to score a single goal, were particularly disappointing for a player of his quality in midfield.

Minutes

90

105

Shots on target

1

0

Pass accuracy

84%

68%

Big chances created

0

1

Duels won

0/8

3/15

Fouls committed

3

4

Possession lost

16x

25x

As you can see in the table above, Hatate did not do enough to help the team offensively or defensively, as he was dominated in duels whilst being incredibly wasteful with the ball at his feet.

It is frustrating to see the Japan international turn in consistently underwhelming performances because he has the quality to do better. Last season, he scored ten goals and created 14 ‘big chances’ for Celtic in 27 starts in the Premiership, per Sofascore.

This shows that he is capable of producing more quality in the final third, which is why Rodgers should expect him to do more if he wants to keep his place in the side.

Thankfully, for Celtic, the Northern Irish head coach has been brewing the club’s next Hatate over the last 13 months or so in the form of Luke McCowan.

Market Movers

Football FanCast’s Market Movers series explores the changing landscape of the modern transfer market. How much is your club’s star player or biggest flop worth today?

The Scottish midfielder was signed from Dundee for a fee of £1m in the summer of 2024 and he has proven himself to be a useful squad member, whose value has soared during his time at Parkhead.

Celtic are brewing their next Reo Hatate

As aforementioned, Hatate is in the Hoops team to deliver quality in the final third by scoring and assisting goals, which is exactly what McCowan was born to do.

The left-footed midfield star has been a bit-part player for the most part throughout his career in Glasgow to date, but his performances when called upon suggest that Rodgers is brewing a talent who could take Hatate’s place as a regular starter.

Per Transfermarkt, McCowan’s value has soared to £2.2m, more than double what the club paid for him. That is higher than new signing Sebastian Tounekti, who is valued at £1m, despite the Tunisia international’s impressive debut with five completed dribbles against Kilmarnock.

The Scottish midfielder has proven his worth by delivering quality performances on the pitch in the Premiership when called upon by the Scottish giants since the start of last season.

His value soaring above Tounekti’s, who is an exciting new signing for the Hoops this season, is a testament to the quality he has shown for the club to date.

McCowan has already scored one goal in one start in the league so far this term for the Hoops, with his strike against St Mirren on the opening day to claim all three points for the team.

The former Dundee star, who was described as “tenacious” by writer Kai Watson, ended the 2024/25 campaign with eight goals and eight assists in 16 starts in the Premiership for Dundee and Celtic combined.

xG

0.31

Top 3%

Goals

0.46

Top 4%

Shots on target

1.26

Top 3%

xA

0.40

Top 3%

Assists

0.46

Top 5%

Chances created

2.51

Top 5%

As you can see in the table above, McCowan racked up 0.92 goals and assists per 90 in the top-flight last season, which shows that he consistently delivered when called upon in the final third.

This suggests that he has the potential to overtake Hatate as the starter in that midfield slot, because the Japanese flop has only scored one goal and failed to provide any assists in six starts in all competitions this season, per Sofascore.

Rodgers may have unearthed Celtic's next Tierney & it's not Saracchi

Celtic may have found their next Kieran Tierney and it is not Marcelo Saracchi.

ByDan Emery Sep 14, 2025

Therefore, Rodgers may be brewing the successor to Hatate’s place in the XI in McCowan, who could become a regular if the Japan international does not improve his performances.

Nottingham Forest manager Ange Postecoglou has now dropped a significant injury update on a key player, ahead of the trip to Real Betis next Wednesday.

Forest gearing up for European return

Forest are set to take part in their first European fixture in 30 years on Wednesday night, travelling to Spain to take on Real Betis in the Europa League, after what has been a strange start to the season.

Nuno’s departure just three games into the Premier League campaign didn’t come as much of a shock, given the 51-year-old’s comments about Evangelos Marinakis, but Ange hasn’t made the best of starts since being brought in to replace him.

The 3-0 defeat at Arsenal was perhaps to be expected, but the Australian will be disappointed to have been knocked out of the EFL Cup by Swansea City in the following game, before only being able to take a point in a 1-1 draw at Burnley on Saturday.

"World-class" manager wanted Nottingham Forest job before Ange appointment

A renowned manager was interested in taking over from Nuno Espirito Santo at The City Ground.

ByDominic Lund Sep 18, 2025

Despite being unable to win the match, Ange took the time to praise his side’s performance, saying: “From seven days ago from when we played Arsenal, we look a different team and we saw elements of that on Wednesday night too.”

Forest had to make do without Murillo for the trip to Turf Moor, which didn’t do them any favours, and the manager has now dropped a significant update on the defender’s fitness ahead of the trip to Real Betis.

As relayed by Nottinghamshire Live, Ange said: “He should be OK for Wednesday. He was close (to being involved at Burnley), but it makes no sense risking players. I’ve been really happy with Morato at centre-back. He’s done well. I thought he stood up.

“The good thing is we have got competition for places, and that’s what we need. But the medical team tell me he (Murillo) should be ready for Wednesday.”

"Monstrous" Murillo's return will be boost for Forest

As pointed out by Ange, Morato put in a solid display in Murillo’s absence, making four clearances and three tackles to keep Burnley at bay, but the Brazilian’s return will be a boost for Forest.

The 23-year-old, who rakes in £75k-a-week, has been nothing short of a revelation at The City Ground, receiving very high praise from journalist Ryan Taylor after catching the eye against Liverpool last season.

The Brazil international also ranks in the 94th percentile for clearances per 90, and the 95th percentile for blocks over the past year, when compared to other centre-backs.

Murillo is undoubtedly one of Forest’s top players, which is underlined by the fact he only missed two Premier League games last season, so it is good news that he is set to return for Wednesday’s game.

2025 US Open winner Carlos Alcaraz has weighed in on the Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lionel Messi debate, revealing which football ‘GOAT’ he is inspired by.

Alcaraz wins sixth major title in New York

Alcaraz picked up the sixth major title of his career with a victory in the US Open final against long-time rival Jannik Sinner on Sunday, winning the competition for the second time.

The Spaniard defeated Sinner 6-2 3-6 6-1 6-4 in the presence of Donald Trump, with the US president’s attendance causing the final to be delayed, before eventually starting in front of thousands of empty seats due to ramped-up security measures outside.

The 22-year-old may have a rivalry with the Italian on the court, but he took the time to praise the runner-up after clinching the victory in New York City.

Away from tennis, the World No.1 is well-known to be an avid supporter of Real Madrid, with the Spanish giants taking the time to congratulate the star on his recent success in the USA.

As such, it is no surprise Alcaraz’s list of the top five footballers of all-time may be considered a little Real Madrid-centric, with Ronaldo making the list, alongside Sergio Ramos, Luka Modric, Ronaldinho and Neymar, with Messi being omitted entirely.

The tennis star also said: “I love Cristiano Ronaldo. The confidence he has is unbelievable. He always believes in himself. When I hear he is the first player to go to training and the last one to go home, that shows the hard worker he is and that inspires me a lot.”

Ronaldo has one last chance to reignite GOAT debate

In many people’s minds, the GOAT debate was already settled prior to the 2022 World Cup, given that the Inter Miami star eclipses the Portugal legend in terms of Ballon d’Ors, but Argentina’s triumph out in Qatar arguably ended the conversation.

Related Ballon d'Or 2025 Final Rankings

Where did the 30 nominees finish?

Posts ByCharlie Smith Sep 23, 2025

With the Al-Nassr star now 40-years-old, the 2026 World Cup will almost certainly be his last, meaning he has one final opportunity to lead Portugal to glory, which would perhaps mean there is a debate there to be had once again.

Albeit in Saudi Arabia, the record-breaking 222-time Portugal international is showing few signs of slowing down, despite his age, maintaining a fantastic goal-scoring record throughout the three previous seasons he has spent with Al-Nassr in the Gulf state.

Ronaldo in Saudi

League appearances

Goals

2022-23

16

14

2023-24

31

35

2024-25

30

25

However, given that Messi led Argentina to 2022 World Cup glory, and has three more Ballon d’Ors to his name, it has become much more difficult to make a case for Ronaldo, and Alcaraz’s preference is likely due to the fact he is a Real Madrid supporter.