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Wednesday night saw Arsenal pick up their second win in as many Champions League games this season.

Was it the perfect performance? No, probably not, but Mikel Arteta made a slew of changes to the lineup, and on another night, they could have scored a handful more goals.

Moreover, several starters really shone, including David Raya, Martin Zubimendi, and, even though he didn’t score, Viktor Gyokeres looked lively.

However, when it comes to the man of the match, it’s hard to look past Martin Odegaard, who, unlike one of his teammates, has undoubtedly played himself into the lineup for West Ham United.

Arsenal's best player vs Olympiacos

It would be fair to say that, following his ankle injury, last season was one to forget for Odegaard.

The Arsenal captain looked a shell of his former self for the best part of a year, so much so that plenty of fans and pundits alike began to doubt his quality and ability to get back to his best.

Now, it’s certainly still early doors in that respect, but the Norwegian looked great in his cameo against Newcastle United on Sunday, and then took things up another level against Olympiacos on Wednesday.

According to content creator Connor Humm, the Gunners’ number eight showed a version of himself that “has been absent too long” and was “sensational.”

It would be hard to disagree, as for much of the first half and moments of the second, he seemed to be constantly playing perfect balls through the Greek side’s defence and got his rewards with an assist for Bukayo Saka’s strike.

The Drammen-born star was so effective that the Standard’s Simon Collings gave him a 9/10 match rating at full-time, writing that he ‘looked so sharp and played some majestic through-balls’.

Such high praise is more than justified by his statistics, as in his 95 minutes of action, the 26-year-old amassed a combined expected goal and assists figure of 1.65, took 86 touches, played four key passes, was accurate in seven of ten long balls, took one shot on target, completed 100% of his dribbles and made one clearance.

Odegaard’s game vs Olympiacos
Minutes	95′
Expected Goals	0.72
Expected Assists	0.93
Assists	1
Key Passes	4
Touches	86
Long Balls (Accurate)	10 (7)
Shots on Target	1
Dribbles (Successful)	1 (1)
Clearances	1
Tackles	1
All Stats via Sofascore

In short, it was the kind of performance that has to see him keep his place for the weekend, which is the opposite for another starter.

Arsenal's worst player vs Olympiacos

While most of the team played well, some starters, such as Ben White and Gabriel Martinelli, were not particularly impressive, despite the latter’s goal.

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However, it would be hard to deny that the most disappointing display in red and white on Wednesday night came from Leandro Trossard.

The Belgian international retained his place in the starting lineup from the Newcastle game, but unfortunately, he was even less effective than he had been in that match.

In fact, if there is one word to describe the 30-year-old’s display against the Greek outfit, it would be frustrating.

The former Brighton & Hove Albion star kept finding himself in promising positions, but time and time again, he’d waste the moment, either through a wayward shot or a poor pass.

Collings felt similarly about the winger, giving him a rather generous 6/10 match rating and writing that he ‘wasted’ his fair share of chances.

Unsurprisingly, his statistics tell a similar story: in 73 minutes of action, he amassed a combined expected goal and assists figure of 0.48 but failed to produce either, took 48 touches but completed just 17 passes, lost 50% of his duels, lost the ball 14 times, and was dribbled past twice.

Trossard’s game vs Olympiacos
Minutes	73′
Expected Goals	0.44
Goals	0
Expected Assists	0.04
Assists	0
Passes	17/25 (68%)
Touches	48
Long Balls (Accurate)	4 (2)
Shots on Target	1
Lost Possession	14
Duels (Won)	12 (6)
Dribbled Past	2
All Stats via Sofascore

It was a performance that did little to dispel the idea that the 5 foot 8 ace is far better coming off the bench than starting games.

Therefore, while it might seem harsh, Arteta should look to drop Trossard for the upcoming game against West Ham.

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Jack Salveson Holmes

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Manchester United and Ruben Amorim bounced back with a win against Sunderland on Saturday, and a key update has now emerged over the manager’s future.

Amorim's future still in doubt after Sunderland win

Admittedly, opting to relieve managers of their duties over the years hasn’t necessarily made Manchester United a better side. Still, pressure is continuing to grow on Amorim as he attempts to arrest his side’s slump in form.

Gareth Southgate has been linked to the Old Trafford hotseat and could be a safe option in light of his steady progress with England, and Peter Crouch believes that if a change is coming in the dugout, the ex-Three Lions boss is an ideal fit to step in.

He said via The Mirror: “I love Gareth (and) he’s had some stick unfairly. He took us to the finals. It was frustrating, you know, not to get over the line. If he won one game, then would there be a statue of him.

“He’s gone from a statue to people thinking he’s not good enough for the Man United job. It’s such a fine line in football. I think he’s someone that could build something there. You keep getting managers over that are here for the short term, like I think Gareth Southgate is someone who can build something big.”

Reportedly, Manchester United would need to pay £12 million to sack Amorim, which would be a hefty price to pay if they decide he is not the right man to take them forward, and a cost which they can now avoid at least a little longer after Saturday’s rather comfortable 2-0 victory against the Black Cats at Old Trafford.

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Either way, there needs to be some clarity one way or another; something that Ornstein now looks to have provided in his latest update on events at Old Trafford.

David Ornstein shares how Man Utd feel about Ruben Amorim

Speaking to NBC Sports, Ornstein made it clear that Man Utd are keeping faith in Amorim and both parties want to keep moving forward in the right direction, while he still retains the backing of the squad.

He said: “Ruben Amorim is under major pressure, but I think most of that pressure is applied on him by himself, as well as the burden of being Manchester United manager. Manchester United themselves, as I understand, they’re not planning to sack him. They don’t want or intend to, and I don’t think he’s planning to walk away from this.

“Last season, I think he really felt the strain, and people I speak to say he was questioning if he could succeed there. But I do think, incrementally, there is a bit of improvement felt, however small, especially with some of the new signings, and it is still very early.”

Later, he added: “Results will need to improve; we can’t get away from that, and we know how this industry operates, but I think they would like to give him more time.”

Ultimately, giving managers more time is a game of risk versus reward. Manchester United know that the grass isn’t necessarily always greener, but the impact of a bounce under a new coach could also spark their season into life.

There will be plenty of conflicting opinions on Amorim’s future, though he appears to be safe for now as Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS favour continuity over instability.

This season feels like a do-or-die for Mikel Arteta and Arsenal.

The Spaniard has done a brilliant job of taking the club from mid-table mediocrity to perennial title challengers in five years, but he now needs to get the team over the finishing line.

Fortunately, even with the absurd number of injuries they’re already facing, the Gunners now have a squad full to bursting with brilliant players, like Eberechi Eze, who could help them win the Premier League or Champions League.

Interestingly, though, while Arsenal should be delighted to have the Crystal Palace star on the books, one of their former players is currently performing just like him.

The problems Eze solves for Arsenal

Now, while there are undoubtedly other things he brings to the table, there are two main ways Eze can help Arsenal, and they are somewhat interlinked.

Firstly, the Gunners ended last season with 17 fewer goals scored than champions Liverpool, and therefore needed to go out and sign a serious attacking threat in the summer, like the former Palace star.

For example, in 43 appearances last season, totalling 3,303 minutes, the England international scored 14 goals and provided 11 assists.

Eze in 24/25

Appearances

43

Minutes

3303′

Goals

14

Assists

11

Goal Involvements per Match

0.58

Minutes per Goal Involvement

132.12′

All Stats via Transfermarkt

That means he averaged a goal involvement every 1.72 games, or every 132.12 minutes, and the fact that he was able to do so in a mid-table side is even more encouraging.

This links to the other main way in which the Greenwich-born star could help the Gunners: his positional versatility.

On top of being proven in the number ten role, the former QPR gem is more than capable of playing off the left.

Not only will this give Arteta more tactical flexibility in games, but it also means the 27-year-old will be able to provide genuine competition for Gabriel Martinelli and Martin Odegaard, two players who underperformed last year.

In all, Eze looks like an excellent signing for Arsenal, even though a player sold by the club years ago is starting to resemble the £68m man.

The former Arsenal star playing like Eze

It would be fair to say that Arsenal do not have the best track record when it comes to selling, often due to them selling a player for way less than their worth.

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That isn’t actually the case in this instance, as former Hale Ender Alex Iwobi was sold to Everton in 2019 for a hefty fee of around £35m.

The Nigerian wasn’t a bad player for the Gunners, far from it, but he wasn’t ever spectacular, and so when the Toffees made an offer like that for someone who’d amassed a tally of 39 goal involvements in 149 games, it was probably the right decision to let him go.

While he played a big role on Merseyside, the versatile international was eventually sold to Fulham for around £22m in the summer of 2023, and it would be accurate to say he’s been at his best with the Cottagers.

In fact, since moving to Craven Cottage, the former Gunners ace has scored 16 goals and provided ten assists in 83 appearances, totalling 6118 minutes.

Iwobi’s senior career

Club

Arsenal

Everton

Fulham

Appearances

149

140

83

Goals

15

9

16

Assists

24

16

10

Goal Involvements per Match

0.26

0.17

0.31

All Stats via Transfermarkt

Yet, despite putting in consistently good performances for the West Londoners and already racking up three goal involvements in five league games this season, some consider him to be overlooked, with journalist Daniel Storey going as far as calling him “one of the most underrated midfielders in the country.”

With that said, what makes him like Eze?

Well, the first similarity the Nigerian shares with the Gunners ace is his positional versatility, as he’s just as comfortable playing on the wing as he is in midfield.

Second, he is also becoming a greater goal threat for his side, racking up 15 goal involvements in the league last season and just seven the year before.

Finally, like the North Londoners’ new star, he is also capable of making things happen, both through his brilliant close control and ability to deliver a pinpoint-accurate cross into the penalty area.

Ultimately, Arsenal did the right thing in selling Iwobi when they did, but it’s also true that the Fulham star is playing incredibly well at the moment, and looking a bit like Eze in the process.

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Aston Villa’s transfer activity this summer has been a careful balancing act, reflecting both ambition and necessity.

After losing academy graduate Jacob Ramsey to Newcastle and contending with persistent Premier League profit and sustainability regulations (PSR), Unai Emery’s side have sought reinforcement across multiple positions.

The Midlands outfit have already added Evann Guessand from Nice, but there remains a pressing need to bolster creativity and experience in midfield, particularly in the event of Morgan Rogers’ departure.

The club’s early campaign has been patchy, with a draw against Newcastle followed by a 1-0 defeat away at Brentford.

Despite summer interest from Newcastle and Manchester United, Ollie Watkins continues to lead the line.

However, there is a growing recognition that midfield reinforcement is required to support their talismanic striker, which in turn will unlock the team’s full attacking potential.

Previously, Aston Villa have gambled on other technically gifted Brazilian midfielders, exemplified by Philippe Coutinho’s arrival after struggling for form at Barcelona.

Now, another South American talent is emerging on the radar, with the potential to recapture that same blend of flair and influence.

Villa enquire about potential Rogers replacement

According to journalist Santi Aouna, Aston Villa have opened discussions with West Ham regarding the possibility of signing Lucas Paquetá.

The 27-year-old Brazilian, who has amassed 55 caps and 11 goals for his national side, is considered one of several midfield options should Villa need to replace Morgan Rogers before the close of the transfer window.

West Ham are understood to be holding out for a fee in the region of £60m, with initial inquiries suggesting Villa would need to meet a minimum valuation of £40m before talks could commence.

Paquetá has undoubtedly experienced a turbulent period at the London Stadium, having faced betting allegations in August 2023.

Although he was cleared of all charges in 2025, the episode is reported to have affected him profoundly.

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Nevertheless, he continues to be highly rated.

Former West Ham player Declan Rice praised the attacking midfielder’s abilities, describing him as “mind-boggling” in terms of quality and vision.

Clubs including Crystal Palace, Manchester City, and Tottenham have reportedly monitored the player, though news of Spurs’ recent acquisition of RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons will reduce the likelihood of any continued interest.

For Villa, Paquetá represents a chance to combine proven Premier League experience with the technical finesse necessary to complement both new arrivals and established stars such as Watkins.

Why Paquetá could be Villa’s next Coutinho

Tactically, Paquetá offers Aston Villa a multifaceted solution.

Primarily an attacking midfielder, the Brazilian excels in creating and progressing offensive sequences, with metrics that underline his all-around capability.

According to FBref, last season, he ranked in the 74th percentile for shot-creating actions per 90 minutes (2.89) and the 79th percentile for progressive passes (6.16), demonstrating his ability to influence both goal-scoring opportunities and build-up play.

Additionally, he boasts the 84th percentile for touches in the opposition penalty area and the 75th percentile for tackles per 90, illustrating a willingness to contribute defensively – a balance Emery prizes in transitional play.

His aerial ability is also notable, with the 89th percentile for aerial duels won per 90, making him a threat in both open play and set-piece scenarios.

The comparison with Coutinho is plain to see.

Before arriving at Villa Park, the Brazilian struggled to live up to his colossal pricetag at Barcelona before briefly flourishing on loan at Bayern Munich.

When at his best, Coutinho combined exceptional vision, dribbling, long-range shooting, and set-piece delivery, ultimately making him a dangerous attacking asset.

Paquetá, arriving at a stage in his career where his technical maturity and Premier League familiarity intersect, could offer a more immediate and sustained impact than his predecessor.

From a squad composition perspective, Paquetá could integrate seamlessly with Villa’s existing framework.

He would complement Watkins in attack, add creativity in the final third, and relieve pressure on newly-signed Guessand, allowing Emery greater flexibility in rotation and tactical setups.

The midfielder’s proficiency in linking play and breaking lines would enhance Villa’s transitional play, which has been a key focus under Emery’s management.

If the deal progresses, it would also signify Villa’s commitment to international-level talent capable of impacting the Premier League immediately.

After losing Ramsey, and with ongoing interest in Rogers from external clubs, adding a player of Paquetá’s calibre would send a clear message regarding the club’s ambitions.

Aston Villa are prepared to invest in both technical skill and experience to remain competitive domestically and in this year’s edition of the Europa League.

Ultimately, a successful move for Paquetá could mirror the allure of Coutinho’s signing while avoiding the pitfalls that hindered his predecessor.

Villa would acquire a player with vision, creativity, and finishing ability, tempered by Premier League experience and tactical maturity – qualities capable of elevating both the midfield and the team’s overall attacking profile.

For supporters, it represents an opportunity to witness Brazilian flair integrated into a system designed for consistency and results, potentially bridging the gap between raw talent and polished Premier League performance.

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England Under-19 91 for 5 (Mayes 51) beat South Africa Under-19 87 (Minto 3-15) by five wicketsA dominant bowling performance from England Men U19s paved the way for a comfortable five-wicket win over South Africa Men U19s in the opening Youth ODI at Cape Town.New-ball duo Harry Moore and James Minto did the damage up top taking five wickets between them as the hosts were skittled for just 87.Opener Ben Mayes then broke the back of the chase with 51 from 48 balls while debutant captain Archie Vaughan added 26 as the Young Lions reach their target in 18.3 overs.Moore and Minto immediately got to work after the hosts opted to bat and subsided to 33 for six.The tone was set for an impressive Lions display in the field when Joe Moores held a sharp catch at backward point when Adnaan Lagadien arrowed a backfoot drive off Derbyshire right-armer Moore.Durham left-armer Minto had already had opener Shaylen Pillay caught by wicketkeeper Thomas Rew on his way to figures of innings-best three for 15.Spinners Taz Ali and Farhan Ali ensured the wickets continued to tumble before Worcestershire’s Jack Home – one of three debutants alongside Vaughan and Aaryan Sawant – ended the innings.Home first had Enathi Kitshini caught at backward point by Moores before pulling off a direct hit at the non-striker’s end to run out Nqobani Mokoena.Mayes and Vaughan then combined in a 64-run stand for the second wicket to ensure there were no jitters for the Young Lions. Mayes took the lead role, reaching his half-century from 45 balls, and despite some late wickets the tourists were always on course for a comfortable win.The Lions can secure the three-match Youth ODI series on Sunday when the second match is also played at Western Province CC in Cape Town.

Such is the toxicity of an online fanbase that very rarely do you get a signing that unifies a bunch of supporters, particularly Arsenal.

Their fans love a vent, they love sharing their frustration but there is also an incredible collective unity. That was seen when Eberechi Eze signed for the Gunners on Saturday.

While a deal was wrapped up by Wednesday evening, this move has been in the pipeline for a couple of weeks now with reports suggeting that they had initially agreed the framework of a move back on August 10th.

After that, Spurs stole in and it looked as though Andrea Berta and Co were set to ignore their summer-long interest.

Well, an injury to Kai Havertz turned the tide. Arsenal need another body and they brought one in swiftly, spending over £60m to bring the Crystal Palace star to the north of London.

If reports are to be believed, they might not be done just yet.

Another late signing for Arsenal on the cards

With the arrival of Eze it is highly likely that Arsenal are now done the in the transfer market when it comes to incomings.

That won’t faze many fans, for this has been a cracking window.

Yet, the one player that’s continued to elude the club despite several months worth of links is Real Madrid winger Rodrygo.

Reports earlier in the window suggested that talks had been held but interest has never been followed up. Well, according to reports in Spain, a bid was actually made for the Brazilian.

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Reportedly, Arsenal have actually submitted an offer worth £67m for the player. However, amid interest from Manchester City, Madrid are not prepared to sanction a sale unless their asking price of around £78m is met.

As a consequence, this is probably one deal too many for Berta this summer.

Why Rodrygo is as exciting as Eze

Wow, just wow. What a deal this is. The moment that Arsenal were able to steal Eze away from their biggest rivals is an event that fans won’t be forgetting in a hurry.

Eze certainly feels like the missing piece of the puzzle. Capable of playing from the left wing or behind the striker as more of a number 10, he’s a maverick, he’s a dribbler, he’s a goalscorer, he’s a creator. He’s got everything in his locker to be a success at Arsenal.

2024/25

43

14

11

2023/24

31

11

6

2022/23

40

10

4

2021/22

19

1

1

2020/21

36

3

6

What fans have perhaps bemoaned the most over the last year is the predictability of the club’s tactics but Eze will certainly help give this attack some unpredictability.

Rodrygo would help do the same and one might still argue that, despite added depth on the left wing now, they don’t have an elite option.

We’re clutching at straws here, but Noni Madueke’s favoured position is on the right and Eze’s preferred role would be more central.

Thus, signing Rodrygo, whether it be now or in the future would be the final piece of the puzzle on the left of Arteta’s forward line.

While he did go 17 games without scoring at one stage last term, the 24-year-old still netted 14 goals and supplied 11 assists. Remarkably, that is the exact same haul as Eze registered for Crystal Palace across all competitions in 2024/25.

In the words of former teammate Luka Modric, he’s a “superstar” talent. He’s also a maverick, just as Eze is, ranking among the top 20% of positionally similar players in Europe’s top five leagues for successful take-ons per 90 minutes and among the best 13% for progressive carries per 90, via FBref.

In the shadow of Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr at Madrid, since new boss Xabi Alonso came to the club he’s not received much game time and it feels like it’s only a matter of time before Rodrygo grows frustrated and forces a move away from the Spanish capital.

This is a deal that will likely go into 2026 but there’s no doubt that he’s a fabulous player, someone boasting the same level of unpredictability and excitement in attack as Mr Eze.

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ByEthan Lamb Aug 23, 2025

As Unai Emery builds towards his third full season in charge of Aston Villa, the future of Ollie Watkins looms large.

With Manchester United heavily linked with a move for the England international and Villa walking a tightrope with Profit and Sustainability Regulations (PSR), the club may be forced into tough decisions this summer.

Watkins, fresh off the back of a third straight Premier League season with 15 or more goals, has become an indispensable figure at Villa Park.

However, the lure of a new challenge could test both his loyalty and the club’s resolve.

To keep their accounts in order, Villa have already sanctioned the €77m (£64m) sale of Jhon Durán and are now weighing up offers for Emiliano Martínez.

Yet any replacement for Watkins would need to be more than a stopgap – they’d need to match his work rate, creativity, and eye for goal.

As Villa look to avoid a post-Watkins drop-off, attention has turned to one of the Bundesliga’s brightest talents, a striker whose profile mirrors that of Watkins in both style and output.

Aston Villa seeking Watkins successor

According to German outlet BILD Aston Villa have identified RB Leipzig’s Loïs Openda as a key target should Watkins leave this summer.

Journalist Sacha Tavolieri reported that Villa are monitoring the Belgian striker closely, and Openda is understood to be open to a move to the Premier League – though no formal talks have taken place.

The 25-year-old is under contract at Leipzig until 2028 and has a release clause of €80m.

However, BILD reports that a fee of around €70m (£60m) could be enough to tempt the Bundesliga side into selling, if Villa were to lodge a bid, particularly in light of their disappointing 2023/24 campaign.

While Openda has not formally asked to leave, sources close to the club suggest he has expressed frustration behind the scenes – especially as key teammates Xavi Simons and Benjamin Šeško are also linked with summer exits.

Phillipe Clement, who managed Openda at Club Brugge, has no doubts about the striker’s suitability for top-level football.

“He’s super-fast but he also has an eye for goal and will be decisive,” he said. “In difficult times, he’s someone who remains combative. That’s an important quality in life and as a player.”

With Openda valued highly by Leipzig, who paid €40m (£34m) to sign him from Lens in 2023, any move would depend heavily on Watkins’ future.

Why Openda could be the perfect Watkins successor

According to FBref, Openda is one of the most statistically similar players to Watkins in Europe’s top five leagues. On closer inspection, the comparison holds up well.

Goals

16

9

Assists

8

5

Total

24

14

Openda’s non-penalty expected goals (8.2) were not far off Watkins’ (13.2), and both maintained strong conversion rates – Openda netting nine non-penalty goals to Watkins’ 14.

The Belgian also excels in areas that Villa fans have grown to expect from their lead striker. His progressive carries per 90 minutes (2.12) edge Watkins’ (1.90), and he creates more shot-creating actions (2.42 vs. 1.84).

He also attempts and completes more passes per 90 (13.8 vs. 10.6), though Watkins boasts the better pass completion rate (72.4% to 63.8%).

In front of goal, the differences are subtle.

Watkins slightly edges Openda in shots per 90 (2.84 vs. 2.82) and shots on target per 90 (1.25 vs. 1.14), but both players hover around the same shot-on-target percentage — 43.9% for Watkins, 40.3% for Openda.

Perhaps most intriguing is Openda’s dribbling output. He completes 0.81 successful take-ons per 90 compared to Watkins’ 0.35, with a higher success rate (29.7% to 24.4%).

While not elite figures, they show Openda’s willingness to beat defenders, an attribute Emery may want more of from his next No.9.

There are areas where Watkins still holds the edge. He wins the ball more in the attacking third (0.14 tackles per 90 compared to Openda’s 0.07) and has better discipline and decision-making in link-up play.

But Openda’s progressive passing distance (36.5 yards per 90) compared to Watkins’ 22.7 suggests greater vertical intent, something Emery’s side could lean into more, especially in Europe.

With 27 Belgium caps to his name, Openda isn’t just a runner or a poacher.

He’s a complete modern forward.

Dynamic, intelligent, and tactically flexible enough to play wide if needed.

If Watkins were to leave, replacing him would be no easy task. But in Loïs Openda, Villa may have found the closest thing to a like-for-like successor.

A forward who mirrors Watkins’ strengths but brings additional tools that Emery could sharpen even further.

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Villa have proved savvy in the market under Emery, blending data-led recruitment with tactical clarity.

Should they pull off a deal for Openda, it could prove one of the most pivotal transfers of their Europa League campaign and another sign of the club’s growing ambition.

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ByKelan Sarson Aug 1, 2025

“It was so good the first time we had to do it twice,” cried Chloe Kelly at full-time. Sarina Wiegman’s England Lionesses are Euro 2025 winners. For a successive continental competition, they are European champions.

It’s safe to say the women have put the nation through maximum levels of stress this summer, defeating Sweden on penalties, needing extra time against Italy, scoring in last-gasp fashion and then needing another shoot-out against Spain in the final.

Arsenal’s Mariona Caldentey had given the World Cup winners the lead, though another Gunner in Alessia Russo hit back. Nothing could separate the two teams until two women who have already had plenty of clutch moments in this competition stood up to it.

Goalkeeper Hannah Hampton and Chloe Kelly were the heroes in the shootout, with Kelly firing home the winning spot kick.

Cue mass celebrations, handshakes with Prince William and dancing on the podium. After victory in 2022, England had done it again.

Here are the best moments from the final…

3 Russo equalises for England

After Lauren James hobbled off in the first half with injury, it meant that woman of the hour Kelly was introduced on the left wing.

As usual, she made a phenomenal impact, not just scoring the winning penalty but supplying an inch-perfect cross for Russo to head home.

Speaking at full-time, Wiegman was utterly euphoric: “I can’t believe it. The word ‘team’ really describes who we are – a team. We said we can win by any means and that’s what we have shown again today. I am so proud of the team and the staff. It is incredible. I just can’t believe it, but I have a medal around my neck and we have a trophy.

“It has been the most chaotic tournament on the pitch – all the challenges we had on the pitch against our opponents. From the first game it was chaos. Losing your first game and becoming European Champions is incredible. Football is chaos.”

2 Spot-kick drama for England as Kelly wins it from the spot

It was Kelly who was entrusted with the late penalty against Italy in the semi-finals and although it was saved, she latched onto the rebound and found the net.

Up she stepped again for the winning moment in Basel on Sunday and she was never going to miss. Indeed, she didn’t, slamming the ball home.

Speaking after that moment, the Arsenal forward was on cloud nine. Kelly told the BBC: “I’m so proud of this team, so grateful to wear this badge and so proud to be English. I was cool, I was composed, I knew I was going to hit the back of the net. I don’t miss penalties twice.

“It’s unbelievable, it’s not just this team it’s the staff behind us. Twenty-three players and all the staff behind us. Sarina Wiegman has done it again. It’s unbelievable. It’s going to be crazy. I hope the whole of England comes out to support us and show the love to all these girls because they deserve it.”

1 England players party hard into the night

Prince William, snow angels in the confetti, tears of joy, a dancing Kelly, it was all happening in the aftermath of England’s victory.

Hampton commented that “this team is just unbelievable” while captain Leah Williamson barely had the words, summing things up well; “it’s just total disbelief,” she said.

Quite. Two European Championship wins in four years is some going. Long live this Wiegman rein.

Nottingham Forest have made an offer to sign a new Brazilian forward who is also wanted by German giants Borussia Dortmund.

Nottingham Forest sign Jair Cunha after Igor Jesus

It has been an extremely eventful few days at the City Ground in the transfer market and in regards to their European spot for the 2025/26 season.

Anthony Elanga has joined Premier League rivals Newcastle United in a deal that could reach £55m, whereas Morgan Gibbs-White has been at the middle of a transfer saga involving Tottenham Hotspur.

There has been a new signing for the Reds, though, with defender Jair Cunha sealing his move to the Midlands from Botafogo. The 6ft 6 defender has been heavily linked with a move to Forest and now joins striker Igor Jesus at the City Ground, who also moved from the Brazilian side.

Nottingham Forest summer signings

From

Fee

Igor Jesus

Botafogo

£10m

Jair Cunha

Botafogo

£10m

Talking after the deal for Cunha was announced, Forest’s chief football officer Ross Wilson said: “Jair is a young talent who has shown quality during his time in Brazil, and we are happy to have secured his signature. Jair has flourished in Brazil and now has new ambitions as he moves to the Premier League. We know he will be warmly welcomed into the group here in Nottingham.”

Nottingham Forest make bid to sign 28 y/o who Spurs want with Gibbs-White

The update comes from the reliable David Ornstein.

ByHenry Jackson Jul 11, 2025

The 20-year-old has signed a five-year deal with Forest and could be an immediate part of Nuno Espirito Santo’s starting line-up next season. The Reds aren’t stopping there though when it comes to looking at the Brazilian market for new additions.

Nottingham Forest make offer for 18 y/o Brazilian forward

According to reports from Brazil, relayed by Sport Witness, Nottingham Forest have now made an offer to sign Santos forward Mateus Xavier.

The 18-year-old’s contract is set to expire in 2026, and it is claimed that he has also had enquiries from Borussia Dortmund, PSV Eindhoven and Zenit Saint Petersburg.

Forest are the ones who have made their move with an offer, though, and Xavier’s ‘representatives are considering the best option for him’. However, it is also claimed that Santos has made a new contract offer to Xavier and are confident of a renewal.

Called “highly rated” by U23 scout Antonio Mango, Xavier is being backed to make the breakthrough into first team football and is capable of playing as a left winger, right winger or attacking midfielder.

He’s already made five senior appearances for Santos and has scored 10 goals in 36 games for their U20 side, and by the looks of things, Forest are looking to make him the third Brazilian through the door this summer.

Everton are building for the new campaign under David Moyes and have revived their interest in an experienced midfielder who could be available on the cheap this summer, according to a report.

Everton encounter confusion in Kenny Tete pursuit

Over the last few days, Everton appeared to be closing in on Fulham right-back Kenny Tete after talks were said to have progressed on a free transfer deal that would see the Dutchman pitch up at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

However, Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Fulham have now submitted a fresh contract offer to Tete as his present terms at Craven Cottage come to an end, with a final decision on his future expected in the next few days.

He explained: “Fulham have sent today new improved contract proposal to Kenny Tete after he verbally agreed to join Everton earlier this week. Both Fulham and Everton have proposals on the table now for the right back who’s available as free agent. Final decision soon.”

Despite a deal looking signed and sealed, there may be more work to do for the Toffees on the market following recent developments, though David Moyes is seemingly wasting no time in his mission to strengthen.

Villarreal forward Thierno Barry could join Everton following Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s departure, but they will seek to negotiate at a figure below his current £40 million release clause.

Dream Gueye replacement: Moyes pushing Everton to sign £17m "big game" star

Everton may need a replacement for Idrissa Gueye.

ByJoe Nuttall Jun 24, 2025

Plenty of bodies have gone out the door at Finch Farm and there is a need for strength in depth as the Toffees enter a new era under Moyes.

Now, Everton fans could have something to shout about after the Tete debacle amid news that their side have revived their interest in a proven Premier League midfielder.

Everton could sign Wilfred Ndidi for a bargain price

According to talkSPORT, Everton have revived their interest in Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi and could land the Nigeria international for £9 million due to a release clause in his contract that is now active after the Foxes’ relegation.

Manchester United are also attentive to his situation, while Saudi Pro League clubs linger in the background, ready to offer the 28-year-old an escape route from the King Power Stadium.

Wilfried Ndidi’s Premier League campaign in numbers (Fotmob)

Chances created

17

Successful dribbles

13

Pass accuracy

82.4%

Duels won

177

Recoveries

127

Labelled “brilliant” by James Maddison, Ndidi registered one goal and five assists in 30 appearances across all competitions last campaign, though he couldn’t help his side escape relegation under Ruud Van Nistelrooy’s stewardship.

Possessing a high level of pedigree, the former KRC Genk man has won 65 caps at international level for Nigeria and would be an ideal replacement for Orel Mangala following the latter’s departure.

Nevertheless, competition is fierce for his signature, meaning Everton will need to act quick on the market to ensure he is wearing a different shade of blue next season.