Tag Futebol

Celtic find themselves in the hunt for another domestic clean sweep under Brendan Rodgers, but the club already have one eye on what will be a potentially busy summer that could see movement in both directions.

Celtic's hunger for silverware won't slow summer transfer plans

Planting their flag in the sand, Celtic are firmly in front of everyone else in the Scottish Premiership table and require three more wins to mathematically secure a fourth successive league title following last weekend’s events.

While the Bhoys dismantled St Mirren in Paisley, struggling Rangers lost out at home to Motherwell, widening the gap at the summit to 16 points.

Brendan Rodgers has already claimed the Premier Sports Cup and could secure a treble if his side can successfully defend their Scottish Cup, so there is no surprise supporters already have one eye on the summer transfer window.

Previewing potential activity in Glasgow’s east end, Michael Stewart believes Celtic will look to strike a permanent deal for Jeffrey Schlupp following his excellent form since joining on loan from Crystal Palace.

Related Celtic hit gold with "incredible" ace who's being compared to an £83m star

Celtic have struck gold by signing this impressive attacker on a permanent deal.

Posts ByDan Emery Mar 4, 2025

The Ghana international is set to be a free agent at the end of the season and may be a viable competitor to push Kieran Tierney, who will arrive on a pre-contract from Arsenal.

Greg Taylor hasn’t renewed terms at Parkhead and would be the obvious asset to make way. However, there is still plenty of on-field work to be done before addressing the left-hand side of defence.

Nonetheless, the situation in question does serve as a reminder that squad cycles do come to an end at some point. With that in mind, Celtic could also be set for alterations in the engine room.

Celtic could sign Lennon Miller if Reo Hatate departs Parkhead

According to The Daily Record, Celtic are confident they will strike a deal for Motherwell midfielder Lennon Miller and believe the off-season may be the perfect time to strike for the talent, who is one of Scotland’s hottest properties on the market.

The outlet claim that Reo Hatate may be the most likely departure to create room for the 18-year-old to claim a spot in the Hoops’ starting line-up. Having spent three and a half years in Glasgow, the Suzuka-born man could depart for a new challenge once the campaign comes to a close.

Reo Hatate’s season in numbers – Scottish Premiership

Goals

6

Assists

3

Chances created

30

Pass accuracy

81.9%

Duels won

76

Lennon Miller’s season in numbers – Scottish Premiership

Goals

2

Assists

6

Chances created

42

Pass accuracy

72.3%

Duels won

128

Last summer, Celtic knocked back a £10 million bid for the Japan international from France, and any exit would likely see a sum surpassing that mark make its way into the Parkhead coffers.

Labelled a “standout” by Barry Ferguson, Miller is three off the 70-appearance mark for the Steelmen despite only turning 18 last August. The Scotland Under-21 international may also be a contender to earn senior honours for his country ahead of their Nations League playoff double-header against Greece later in the month.

Celtic always have one eye on the future, and they won’t want to miss out on a rising star who is gaining considerable recognition for his all-action displays in the engine room.

Hasnain’s brilliant spell was not enough to help Quetta Gladiators defend 155

Danyal Rasool20-Feb-2023

James Neesham played a crucial role for Peshawar Zalmi with his 23-ball 38•PCB

If ever cricket wanted to drive home the point that this sport is a team game, this fixture was it. Scarcely can a T20 fast bowler turn in the performance Mohammad Hasnain did today while ending up on the losing side, but an indifferent batting performance from Quetta Gladiators ensured that would be his fate. Peshawar Zalmi, meanwhile didn’t have a single player who could hold a candle to Hasnain’s heroics, but enough of their players did just about enough to subdue Hasnain’s side, with a clinical team performance edging out an individual, fire-breathing, one man rescue act.Defending 155 to win, the Gladiators needed early wickets, particularly after Mohammad Haris got Zalmi off to a blazing start in the first two overs. Hasnain would oblige, removing him and the precocious Saim Ayub off his first two deliveries. He followed up by getting rid of Tom Kohler-Cadmore in his second over, and it soon became apparent he was the one man stood between a Zalmi canter and a Quetta heist.Naseem Shah provided able support, conceding just 19 runs and taking a wicket, but the low total meant one cameo partnership between Rovman Powell and James Neesham was just about enough. The two put together 46 in five overs before a perfect yorker from Naseem cleaned up the Jamaican, and while Neesham departed soon after, it wasn’t before he had smashed Qais Ahmed for two fours and a six to leave his side 21 away.The 17th over was a masterclass of death bowling from Hasnain, toying with Wahab Riaz as he sent down a maiden, but with Naseem bowled out, the Gladiators simply didn’t have the quality to defend 19 in 18 balls. It took Zalmi just nine more balls to get home, with Wahab finishing the game off with a pair of boundaries against Mohammad Nawaz, who somehow tends to find himself thrown into this kind of situation.That the Gladiators would end up with a below-par score looked imminent when they managed a solitary run in the first two overs, with Zalmi’s stranglehold continuing through the powerplay. Martin Guptill couldn’t find the explosive form that took him to three figures against Karachi, while Jason Roy looked equally scratchy as he found himself playing down the wrong line to a beautiful Usman Qadir googly.Qadir, the pick of Zalmi’s bowlers, also trapped Nawaz in front, giving way to the most significant point of resistance from Gladiators’ batters. Sarfaraz Ahmed and Iftikhar Ahmed first consolidated, then teed off to ensure they’d post something defensible. 17 off Shanaka’s 14th over proved the catalyst for the late onslaught, and when Sarfaraz was cleaned up for a useful 39, Iftikhar was completely in his element.He’d smashed Wahab Riaz for six sixes in a recent exhibition game, and on Monday, sent down a seventh off the first ball he faced from Zalmi’s skipper. Odean Smith picked up three successive boundaries off Neesham before Iftikhar brought up an unbeaten 34-ball 50 to sign off. It meant 97 had come off the final 7 overs.It was still well below what was feasibly defensible, and as Hasnain found out to his cost, his teammates simply hadn’t done enough in a game where he possibly couldn’t have done more.

Thomas Tuchel begins his tenure as England manager with two World Cup qualifiers in March, with Albania and Latvia visiting Wembley Stadium.

The start of a new era under the German for the Three Lions, England will be hoping this is the beginning of a story that will end with a World Cup triumph in New Jersey on 19th July 2026.

Tuchel’s appointment could also open the door to a number of rarely seen or new faces on the international stage, so we’ve looked at 10 players who could get their first call-up or be brought back into the squad.

Date

Opposition

H/A

Competition

Fri 21st Mar

Albania

H

World Cup qualifier

Mon 24th Mar

Latvia

H

World Cup qualifier

Sat 7th Jun

Andorra

A

World Cup qualifier

Sat 6th Sep

Andorra

H

World Cup qualifier

Tue 9th Sep

Serbia

A

World Cup qualifier

Tue 14th Oct

Latvia

A

World Cup qualifier

Thu 13th Nov

Serbia

H

World Cup qualifier

Sun 16th Nov

Albania

A

World Cup qualifier

10 England players who can shine under Thomas Tuchel

The German will be planning for the 2026 World Cup.

ByCharlie Smith Oct 16, 2024 1 Morgan Rogers Aston Villa

Morgan Rogers is turning into a Premier League star under Unai Emery at Aston Villa, but he’s only ever had one England call-up.

That came from interim manager Lee Carsley in 2024, and since then, Rogers has continued to impress in the top flight. Capable of scoring goals and providing assists, he’s into double figures for goal contributions in the 2024/25 Premier League season.

Rogers also has the versatility of playing out wide or behind a striker, and on current form, you’d think he has a serious chance of making Tuchel’s first squad.

2 Myles Lewis-Skelly Arsenal

Myles Lewis-Skelly has enjoyed a breakthrough season at Arsenal under Mikel Arteta this season, featuring regularly at left-back in recent months.

Still just 18 years of age, Lewis-Skelly scored his first senior goal for the Gunners in the recent win over Manchester City. On the international stage, the teenager has only represented England up to U19 level, but there has been talk that Tuchel is ready to fast-track him into the senior Three Lions squad.

3 Ethan Nwaneri Arsenal

Another Gunners teenager starring at the Emirates Stadium this season is attacker Ethan Nwaneri, so it could be a matter of time until Lewis-Skelly and Nwaneri share the international stage.

The 17-year-old is another who has yet to perform above England U19s, but he has scored seven goals in all competitions for Arsenal and looks to be a star in the making for club and country.

4 Liam Delap Ipswich Town

At some point, England will have to find a long-term replacement for Harry Kane, and Liam Delap has been showing signs he could be that man this season.

After making a permanent move to Ipswich Town over the summer from Manchester City, Delap has impressed in a struggling Tractor Boys side, scoring nine times in the top flight.

The only Englishmen to score more than Delap in the Premier League this term are Cole Palmer and Ollie Watkins, so a call-up could be on the cards.

5 James Trafford Burnley

Tuchel is also reportedly looking at the Championship when it comes to selecting his England squad, making Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford a standout candidate to earn a senior Three Lions debut.

Of course, Trafford has plenty of international experience at youth level, starring for the Young Lions as they won the U21 European Championship in 2023 under Lee Carsley, with six clean sheets and his last-minute penalty save crowning them as champions.

Called up in the past, Trafford is still awaiting his first senior cap, but has been excellent for the Clarets this season, with Scott Parker’s side on course to beat a number of defensive records. His two late penalty stops against promotion rivals Sunderland will surely have caught the eye recently.

6 Jamie Gittens Borussia Dortmund

Exciting winger Jamie Gittens has been following in the footsteps of Jadon Sancho after swapping Manchester City for Borussia Dortmund as a teenager.

He has been starring in the Bundesliga – a league Tuchel knows well – and has also been progressing for England as an U21 international. The next step would be a senior call-up, something the ex-Dortmund head coach can now hand him.

7 Jobe Bellingham Sunderland

With Tuchel keeping his eye on the second tier in England, Sunderland star Jobe Bellingham – younger brother of Jude – could be another player in line for a senior call-up sooner rather than later.

The 19-year-old has been attracting interest from a number of Premier League clubs after his starring displays at the Stadium of Light. He can play in a variety of midfield roles, so perhaps he’ll be lining up alongside Jude in the near future.

Imagine him & Mainoo: Man Utd register interest in £20m "freak of nature"

Manchester United could be about to land their own version of a European talent.

1 ByEthan Lamb Jan 17, 2025 8 Archie Gray Tottenham Hotspur

Although Tottenham Hotspur have been struggling in the 2024/25 season, Archie Gray has impressed in his first Premier League campaign after joining from Leeds United.

Primarily a midfielder who has been used at right-back and centre-back for large parts of his senior career, Gray is showing maturity beyond his years, and it seems to be a matter of when, rather than if, he will be called up by England.

9 Elliot Anderson Nottingham Forest

Arguably going under the radar at Nottingham Forest is Elliot Anderson, who left Newcastle United for the City Ground last summer. The 22-year-old has been a regular under Nuno Espirito Santo, with the flying Reds pushing for a European spot next season.

Anderson has been one of Forest’s top performers, as per WhoScored, and due to the fact he has represented both England and Scotland at U21 level, Tuchel may want to pip the Tartan Army by offering him a competitive England cap.

Will England get a 5th Champions League place? UEFA's rules explained

Plenty of clubs could be eyeing 5th place if the Premier League earns an extra CL slot.

1 ByRoss Kilvington Feb 10, 2025 10 Chris Rigg Sunderland

Alongside Jobe Bellingham, there is another exciting young midfielder at Sunderland in Chris Rigg. Still just 17 years of age, Rigg is already being courted by the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United.

It seems as if it is a matter of time until he is playing Premier League football and representing England, so Tuchel may be tempted to give Rigg a senior call-up if he needs a left-footed midfielder.

5 reasons the FA hired Thomas Tuchel as England manager

England’s successor to Gareth Southgate is ex-Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel – but why was he so popular with the FA?

ByBarney Lane Oct 16, 2024

Chelsea have been blessed with countless talents over the years, including various attackers who have starred at Stamford Bridge – helping the Blues claim multiple major trophies.

However, Didier Drogba will always stand out for time with the club, arriving as an unknown quantity to many after his big-money transfer from French side Marseille back in the summer of 2004.

The Ivorian would go on to feature over 300 times over two separate spells in West London, scoring 164 times, putting him third on the list of the club’s all-time leading goalscorers.

Drogba was part of an iconic Blues squad during the 2011/12 squad winning the Champions League for the first time ever, as the fan-favourite scored the equaliser before firing home the winning penalty in the shootout.

However, after his departure back in 2015, the hierarchy have struggled to replace the now 46-year-old, but they may finally be able to land a new leading talisman before the end of the ongoing transfer window.

Chelsea in talks to land European star

According to TEAMtalk, Chelsea are in concrete talks with Bundesliga side RB Leipzig over a move to land centre-forward Benjamin Sesko before the end of the window on February 3rd.

However, Enzo Maresca’s side are the only English outfit in the race for his signature, with Arsenal reportedly making an offer for his services over the weekend.

The interest in the Slovenian is understandable given his fine form throughout 2024/25, registering 20 combined goals and assists in his 27 appearances to date.

The report adds that the Blues hierarchy have been in constant contact with the agents of the talisman, with the possibility of a bid coming before the end of the month as they look to end their pursuit for a new striker.

Given the interest in his services from elsewhere, it’s pivotal that the club make progress on a deal for the 21-year-old to avoid missing out on such an exciting prospect – especially to a rival in the same division.

Why Sesko could be Chelsea’s best striker since Drogba

Many have tried to fill the void left by Drogba in the decade since his departure, but the vast majority have failed, with Diego Costa arguably the closest to replacing the Ivorian after his three-year spell which saw him score 59 times.

However, fast-forward to the current side and Nicolas Jackson is the main option at the top end of the pitch, with Marc Guiu and Christopher Nkunku two back up options at Maresca’s disposal.

The latter could reportedly leave before the end of the month as a result of his lack of game time, with Sesko potentially the perfect player to come in and stake his claim for a regular starting role over Jackson.

The Leipzig ace has numerous similarities to club legend Drogba, one being their height and physicality, with Sesko winning an average of 2.5 aerials per 90 this campaign. That aerial presence is desperately lacked currently in Maresca’s squad.

Following his move under José Mourinho, the former Marseille talent was capable of producing a moment of magic out of practically nothing, often scoring an improvised or spectacular effort on many occasions.

Such a skill comes naturally for some players, with the Slovenian also possessing similar qualities with his long-range ball-striking, as seen just a few weeks ago after his ridiculous effort against Werder Bremen.

He’s previously been dubbed “one of the best talents in the world at his age” by his agent, but it’s understandable when looking at his figures from the ongoing season, ranking within the top 10% of various key figures for an attacker throughout 2024/25.

For example, he’s ranked better than 93% of other forwards in Europe for non-penalty goals, whilst better than 97% for shot-on-target accuracy – highlighting his clinical edge in front of goal.

Non-penalty goals

0.65

93%

Shot-on-target accuracy

57%

97%

Goals per shot

0.25

92%

Goals compared to xG

+0.25

98%

% of aerials won

53%

82%

Shot-creating action (take-on)

0.50

88%

Carries into final third

1.27

82%

The youngster has also managed to outperform his xG from the chances that have fallen his way in recent months, further backing up his ability to find the back of the net at ease and usually doing so in a situation where others would fail.

Given his tender age, it would be a superb addition for Maresca this month, having the star quality to make an immediate impact in their quest for a top four spot, whilst also setting them up with a leading talisman for many years to come.

The interest from elsewhere is a concern, but also to be expected given his goalscoring record, with owner Todd Boehly needing to splash the cash over the next week to finally end their extended wait for a new star forward.

He can usurp Jackson: Chelsea hold talks over signing £50m "super talent"

Chelsea can send warning to Jackson by signing “battering ram”

ByConnor Holden Jan 28, 2025

Southampton are now pushing to sign a new forward before the transfer window closes, and have identified an EFL star as their main focus as they look to bolster their ranks.

Southampton improving under Juric

Since the sacking of Russell Martin and subsequent arrival of Ivan Juric, Southampton have undoubtedly improved, but have failed to pick up the results to show for it. The Saints remain rooted to the bottom of the Premier League with just one win to their name all season, and have picked up just six points, none of those under their new manager.

However, there have been signs of progress, with the south coast side having been by far the better side against Manchester United only to be stung by a late hat-trick from Amad Diallo to leave Old Trafford with nothing.

Games

5

Wins

0

Losses

5

Goals scored per 90

0.8

Goals conceded per 90

3

They continue to struggle at both ends of the pitch, scoring the fewest goals in the Premier League this campaign while also conceding the second most, a combination that is only likely to end one way for the St Mary’s side.

With the club now likely resigned to spending next season in the Championship, they have seen strong interest in star man Tyler Dibling this winter, and are likely to lose the talented forward in the not-so-distant future amid interest from Tottenham and others.

Now, perhaps in preparation for that fact, they are looking to raid the Championship once more ahead of their potential return to England’s second tier.

Southampton lining up move for Cardiff City star

That comes as Football Insider reveal that Southampton are one of four sides chasing a late move to sign Cardiff City forward Ollie Tanner this month.

Tanner has impressed in England’s second tier so far this season, grabbing two goals and two assists, while his versatility has seen him play on both sides of attack.

He has always been talented, with one former coach dubbing him “special” and “the best I ever worked with”, something that tempted Tottenham into making an offer to sign him, only for Cardiff to beat them to the punch.

And his performances this season have reportedly caught the eye, with Leeds United, Burnley, Southampton and Leicester all on his tail as they plot a late move for the 22-year-old.

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1 ByKelan Sarson Jan 22, 2025

When quizzed, Cardiff boss Omer Riza played down the links, explaining: “No. Ollie’s a young lad, he’s one of ours and he’s doing really well. We need him, like we need all the other players in our team, and he’s doing well. He’s focused on doing his job at Cardiff and that’s it, really.”

And with two and a half years left to run on his £7,500 a week deal in Wales, any deal looks difficult at this late stage, with Cardiff also looking to stave off relegation themselves. However, several clubs are willing to try, and Southampton appear to be among them.

Leicester's relegation from the Premier League was confirmed on Sunday as they suffered a 1-0 loss to Liverpool at the King Power Stadium.

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• Leicester were beaten 1-0 by Liverpool
• Have dropped to the English second tier
• Won just one of their last 19 PL games

Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  The Foxes' latest defeat not only condemned them to the drop but also highlighted their alarming lack of firepower in front of goal. Their inability to score at home has now stretched beyond 12 hours, or nine consecutive games – a damning statistic for a side that once lifted the Premier League trophy in one of the sport’s most iconic underdog stories.

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• Getty Images Sport
  

  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Leicester's drop to the second tier marks their second relegation in just three seasons. From conquering the league in 2016 and claiming the FA Cup in 2021, they now find themselves oscillating between top-flight hope and Championship reality. They return to the second tier having won only four of their 33 matches.

• DID YOU KNOW?

  The decision to bring in Ruud van Nistelrooy midway through the season has come under heavy scrutiny. The Dutchman was appointed following the dismissal of Steve Cooper, a change that was intended to reverse the club’s fortunes. Instead, it contributed to their downward spiral. Under Cooper, Leicester had a difficult start but managed to remain above the relegation line for the most part. His record – two wins, four draws, and six defeats in twelve games – was not glittering, but it kept the club afloat in 16th place or higher. Van Nistelrooy’s tenure, however, quickly dragged them into trouble. His short time at the helm has yielded just two victories in the Premier League, with wins coming against Tottenham and West Ham. However, these rare high points were surrounded by consistent defeats, resulting in a staggering losing rate of close to 80 per cent in the league.

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  WHAT NEXT FOR LEICESTER?

  Despite the gloom surrounding their Premier League exit, Leicester fans can cling to the memory of last season’s dominant run in the Championship. Their campaign saw them collect 97 points and secure the title, proving their ability to rise from adversity. That experience could serve them well as they prepare for another season in England’s second tier. However, whether Van Nistelrooy remains at the helm or if the club opts for another managerial reset remains to be seen.

MatériaMais Notícias

Com o torcedor da Ponte Preta ainda tentando esquecer o rebaixamento no Campeonato Paulista, finalmente teve motivos para comemorar. Na tarde deste sábado, no estádio Moisés Lucarelli, pela 3ª rodada Brasileirão Série B, conquistou sua primeira vitória na competição, diante do CRB, com Lucca marcando ainda na etapa inicial dando números finais em 1 a 0.

Sendo assim, a equipe comandada por Hélio dos Anjos chegou aos 4 pontos, pulando para a 8ª colocação, enquanto o time comandado por Marcelo Cabo, por conta do revés, caiu para a 17ª posição com apenas 1 ponto.

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>Aplicativo de resultados do LANCE! está disponível na versão iOS

JOGO EQUILIBRADO NO INÍCIO

Mesmo jogando sob seus domínios, a equipe da Ponte Preta não conseguiu impor sua força sobre o CRB nos primeiros minutos. Até meados dos 10 minutos, apesar de tentar manter mais a posse de bola, viu o adversário conseguir chegar à sua área, porém as tentativas de ambos os lados pouco deram trabalho aos goleiro Caíque França e Diogo Silva, respectivamente.

LUCCA ABRE A CONTAGEM

Na sequência, o time da casa passou a ditar o ritmo em campo. Com isso, aos 24 minutos, após lindo passe de calcanhar de Ramon para Norberto, o lateral rolou para Lucca, sem marcação, mandar para o fundo das redes no cantinho.

Mais tranquilo em campo, o time de Hélio dos Anjos passou a cadenciar o jogo. Sem sofrer pressão por parte do Galo, que pouco chegava ao seu campo de ataque, apenas aguardou o término da etapa inicial.

PONTE SEGUIA MELHOR

Mesmo com Marcelo Cabo promovendo uma troca no intervalo, os mandantes mantiveram o mesmo ritmo da primeira etapa. Até meados dos 15 minutos, conseguiu criar as melhores chances com Ramon e Luís Otávio, sendo esse último substituído momentos depois.

Até os 25 minutos, com novas trocas realizadas pelos dois comandantes, o foco no CRB foi aumentar seu poder ofensivo, enquanto a intenção na Macaca foi reforçar seu meio-campo.

RETA FINAL DE DUELO

Já nos momentos finais, com Hélio e Marcelo apostando suas últimas fichas, o CRB até esboçou uma reação. Entretanto, mesmo mantendo a posse de bola, pouco conseguiu criar jogadas para assustar o goleiro Caíque França, dando a deixa a arbitragem colocar um ponto final no jogo com vitória e alívio da torcida da equipe de Campinas.

FICHA TÉCNICA
PONTE PRETA 1×0 CRB

Data e horário: 23/04/2022, às 16h (de Brasília)
​Local: Moisés Lucarelli, em Campinas (SP)
Árbitro:Ramon Abatti Abel (SC)
Assistentes:Henrique Neu Ribeiro (SC) e Helton Nunes (SC)
VAR:Héber Roberto Lopes (SC)

Cartões Amarelos: Lucca, 15’/1ºT; Ramon Carvalho, 37’/1ºT; Wallace, 2’/2ºT; Norberto, 6’/2ºT; Wallisson, 26’/2ºT Hélio dos Anjos, 26’/2ºT

Gols: Lucca, 23’/1ºT (1-0);

PONTE PRETA:Caíque França; Norberto (Bernardo, aos 33’/2ºT), Thiago Oliveira, Fábio Sanches e Artur; Amaral (Wesley Fraga, aos 21’/2ºT), Léo Naldi e Ramon (Wallisson, aos 21’/2ºT); Echaporã (Nicolas, aos 12’/2ºT), Lucca e Danilo Gomes.
(Técnico: Hélio dos Anjos)

CRB:Diogo Silva; Raul Prata, Gum, Iago Mendonça, Guilherme Romão; Marthã (Reginaldo, 38’/2ºT), Wallace (Gustavo Apis, aos 20’/2ºT) e Vico (David Brall, no intervalo); Richard (Gabriel Conceição, 30’/2ºT), Fabinho (Wesley, aos 20’/2ºT) e Anselmo Ramon.
(Técnico: Marcelo Cabo)

América's coach says potential move to the Brazil national team unlikely, but that 'hopefully, one day I can be worthy'

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América defeated Tigres 3-0 on Matchday 13

Las Águilas secured their spot in the Clausura 2025 final phase

André Jardine reached 100 matches with the club

Follow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱AFPWHAT HAPPENED?

The dismissal of Dorival Junior as Brazil's head coach has brought names such as Carlo Ancelotti, Pep Guardiola, and even América’s André Jardine into the conversation as a potential replacement.

Jardine is enjoying an exceptional moment, leading América to the top of the Clausura 2025 with 30 points. Las Águilas have already secured their spot in the tournament’s final phase, where they will aim for their fourth consecutive Liga MX title.

But is Jardine’s move to the Brazil national team even a possibility? Here’s what the coach had to say about the rumors linking him as Dorival Junior’s replacement:

"Obviously, I did a job in Brazil with the Olympic gold, and that is valued in Brazil," he said. "But, to be completely honest, Brazil is looking for top-tier coaches – [Carlo} Ancelotti, [Pep] Guardiola. I’m a step below that level. Hopefully, one day I can be worthy of that seat, which is a hot and heavy one.

"Brazil is thinking about a world-class coach. Right now, things are heated, but I’m happy. I enjoy the moment, every match, every day, and the achievement of every tournament."

AdvertisementAFPWHAT ANDRÉ JARDINE SAID

"First of all, I want to say that I appreciate the great value the Mexican press gives me today. I’m very happy with how I’ve been embraced here – it fills me with pride. I’ve felt welcomed in this country since day one in San Luis, loved by the fans. My son is Mexican, and I feel happy and fulfilled in this league. This is an important point – earning the respect of everyone, from the press and fans to rival coaches."

Getty Images SportDID YOU KNOW?

André Jardine has reached 100 matches as América's head coach, an impressive milestone in his tenure with the club. Since his arrival in mid-2023, the Brazilian manager has led Las Águilas to a historic period of dominance, securing three Liga MX titles in a row and positioning the team as a powerhouse in Mexican football.

Jardine's Record with América (first 100 Matches):

Wins: 66

Draws: 21

Losses: 13

Goals Scored: 191

Goals Conceded: 78

Titles Won: 3 (Liga MX Apertura 2023, Clausura 2024, Apertura 2024)

Under his leadership, América has established itself as the strongest team in Liga MX, currently leading the Clausura 2025 with 30 points. Jardine has also emphasized squad depth, rotation, and tactical flexibility, ensuring the team's consistency despite injuries and fixture congestion.

Jardine and his team remain focused on their primary objectives: securing a fourth consecutive Liga MX title and winning the CONCACAF Champions Cup, the only major club trophy missing from his tenure.

Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR AMÉRICA?

After their 3-0 victory over Tigres on Matchday 13 of the Clausura 2025, América return to training to prepare for the first leg of the Champions Cup quarterfinals against Cruz Azul Tuesday at the Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes.

Following that match, Jardine’s squad will train on before traveling to Pachuca, where they will face Tuzos on Saturday for Matchday 14.

Since taking over as manager at Newcastle United, Eddie Howe has had the luxury of spending hundreds of millions of pounds. Of course, that is because of their takeover in 2021, when Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund bought the majority stake in the club.

It is fair to say that the new owners at St James’ Park have not been afraid to splash the cash when they need to. Last summer, they were held back by the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules so did not spend much. However, in recent years, the likes of Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes and Anthony Gordon have all joined for a sizeable fee.

The Magpies’ record signing is Alexander Isak, but he has been linked with a move away from the club recently.

Alexander Isak’s potential move away

Swedish striker Isak has been sensational since his club record £63m move to St James’ Park, from Spanish outfit Real Sociedad. The striker has 46 goals and nine assists in 85 games for the club in all competitions.

He has been a consistent goalscorer in the Premier League, despite struggling with injuries throughout his Magpies career. He has already hit double figures for the 2024/25 season, having only played 15 games.

Isak PL record by season

Stat

2022/23

2023/24

2024/25

Games

22

30

15

Minutes

1526

2266

1203

Goals

10

21

10

Assists

2

2

4

Stats from Transfermarkt

Despite having scored two goals in a game eight times, the 25-year-old had never managed to score a Magpies hat trick. However, that all changed last weekend after he smashed three goals past Ipswich Town in a 4-0 win, a phenomenal performance.

However, things are perhaps not as good as they might seem. According to Spanish reports, the deadly centre-forward is a target for French giants Paris Saint-Germain. He has been ‘singled out’ by PSG boss Luis Enrique as a potential signing. It could cost around £83m to sign him.

Should Isak leave, the Magpies are in danger of repeating a sale from the 1990s that proved to be a costly error.

The transfer repeat Newcastle will hope to avoid

There are few players as underrated in Premier League football than Andy Cole. He scored 187 Premier League goals, the fourth most in the competition’s history. Incredibly, only one of those strikes was a penalty.

For the Magpies, Cole was devastating. He played just three seasons at the club, but managed to score 68 goals and grab 23 assists in 84 appearances. In the 1993/94 season, he bagged 34 goals in 40 Premier League appearances.

It was off the back of this unstoppable form that Manchester United paid a British record fee of £8.6m. According to The Transfer Index, that would be a jaw-dropping £123m in today’s money, an extraordinary fee with inflation.

It is fair to say that Cole’s move to Old Trafford paid off for him. He went on to play 275 games for the club, scoring 121 goals and grabbing 44 assists in that time. He also won five Premier League titles and was a crucial part of the treble-winning side in 1998/99.

Despite the money they received, the Magpies surely regretted selling their striker. Although they signed Alan Shearer as his replacement, those two could have formed a clinical partnership.

Cole could have also been a big difference-maker in their hunt for the Premier League title. Newcastle finished second twice, in 1995/96 and 1996/97, but had they kept the striker he could have been the man to give them the edge and win the league.

This is simply not a mistake that Newcastle can make with Isak. The money is lucrative, and perhaps hard to turn down. However, they are building a project, with ambitions to win the Premier League, as Amanda Staveley explained after the takeover in 2021.

The Swedish striker could be the key force behind that. Finding someone as clinical in front of goal as Isak is a rarity for Newcastle. They are once-in-a-generation strikers, the likes of Cole and Shearer.

This is not to say the Swede will hit these heights, but his numbers at this stage are undeniable, and he could be the man to take them to the top. Selling Isak could be a huge mistake for the Magpies, and they might well lose their best hope of finally lifting a Premier League title, just like they did when Cole left all those years ago.

Related Newcastle in pole position to sign £25m ace who could be the new Hall

Newcastle have crafted a mini-resurgence but need to get active in the January transfer window.

Posts ByAngus Sinclair Dec 23, 2024

The USMNT Transfer Notebook tracks American player movements, with latest developments for those in the U.S. national team pool

Just a month-and-a-half from the close of one window and some two months away from the opening of another, the point remains quite clear: transfer season never ends. And, yes, that includes developments related to several notable U.S. men's national team stars.

Some big things are brewing ahead of a big summer. The looming 2026 World Cup will impact all transfer decisions going forward, and the right choice could lift a player to a meaningful World Cup role. Getting it wrong could mean missing out altogether.

That applies, in particular, to Gio Reyna, one player everyone will be watching this summer. He's back in the USMNT for the upcoming CONCACAF Nations League Finals, but his situation at Borussia Dortmund hasn't gotten much better. He seems a prime candidate for a move, and a recent development makes that all the more likely. But Reyna is just one of several American stars who could be making moves this summer.

GOAL tracks all of the American player movements in the USMNT Transfer Notebook, a recurring feature covering the latest developments for those in the U.S. national team pool.

• Getty Images
  

  Reyna changes agents

  When Reyna joined up with superagent Jorge Mendes, the expectation was that a major move was on the way. That's what Mendes does: make big moves. It's how he earned that super-agent title, and he was now helping guide Reyna's career.

  One failed loan and several wasted Borussia Dortmund seasons later, Reyna's career hasn't been guided anywhere great. Now, he's switched representation again, indicating that another swing may be coming.

  It was confirmed this week that Reyna has joined a new agency, signing with ROOF. It's his third agent in roughly 15 months. Generally, when a player changes agents, that means a new contract or a new transfer is on the table. Something is changing and, given Reyna's situation, that seems somewhat obvious.

  Let the speculation begin, then. Reyna may be on the move this summer, and a new team is in charge of assessing his options. It's a storyline to watch, perhaps the biggest as the U.S. heads into the summer transfer window.

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• Getty
  

  Time for Sargent to move on?

  The more he scores, the less likely it is that Josh Sargent stays in the Championship next season. The question is if he leaves with Norwich or someone else.

  Right now, Norwich's promotion looks unlikely as they fight for a playoff position. If they don't go up, it appears there's interest there, as reports have started to emerge that Sargent could be on the move this summer.

  According to TBR Football, it seems "unlikely" that Sargent will stay at Norwich amid Premier League interest. Nottingham Forest, Newcastle, Brentford, Fulham and Everton have reportedly scouted him and, when that many teams are looking, something usually comes together.

  It's a big time for Sargent, who heads into the CONCACAF Nations League as the starting No. 9 for the USMNT. We all know how international success impacts transfers, and there's no doubt clubs will be watching to see how Sargent fares in these games.

  Will it overshadow his Championship success? No, but it sure could help – or hurt. Either way, Sargent is clearly commanding attention, which makes too much sense given the numbers he continues to put up on the club level.

• Getty
  

  Robinson outlines ambitions

  Clubs were reportedly swirling for Antonee Robinson in January. He stayed at Fulham. They may be back in the summer, though, and Robinson has given some indication of what it would take for him to consider a Fulham exit.

  "I'm truly focused on just reaching the level I feel I can, which takes a lot of work off the pitch as well, trying to make sure I keep my body right, doing all the extras and training, things like that to make sure I'm on my best level," he told ESPN. "Eventually I want to perform at the highest level that I can. Whether that's playing Champions League, playing European competitions with Fulham, however I get there, I want to make sure I get there."

  One club that could help him get there is Liverpool, who have been linked with the defender for some time. Robinson was well aware of the links, with his friends and family reaching out about them.

  "Transfer rumors and stuff like that, I try not to look at," he said. "Especially like with the Liverpool one, all my friends and family are from Liverpool, so it's more of them messaging me than me seeing newspaper stuff. And I have to say, look, it's just, just a story in the paper and anyone who's doing well is going to get linked to a team."

  The links will continue and Robinson could face that big decision once again: continue to build at Fulham or chase his European dreams?

• Getty Images Sport
  

  Eyes from all over the world on Banks

  American soccer has started to take notice of Noahkai Banks as he continues to break out at Augsburg. Apparently, one of Italy's most historic clubs is, as well.

  Sky Sports has reported that Roma are interested in the defender, who is currently signed up with Augsburg through 2027. Banks is reportedly valued at more than $10.8M (€10 million), having clearly impressed during his seven appearances for Augsburg since his debut in January.

  Roma's reported interest has been noticed by Banks, who was flattered by the interest.

  "When I learned of the request of Roma, it was a huge appreciation for me at first," he told Sports Bild. "In particular, the fact that coach Claudio Ranieri personally made an effort for me was great. In the end, however, I am a player of FC Augsburg and know that the club still has a lot in plan with me."

  Banks remains a talking point for American soccer fans, particularly as a potential candidate for the national team. He's represented the U.S. on the youth levels, but is also eligible for Germany. Clubs are watching the defender as he continues to break through in the Bundesliga.