Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers praised the impact of Kelechi Iheanacho after the half-time substitute netted in a 1-1 draw against Red Star Belgrade.

The post deadline-day signing replaced Daizen Maeda at half-time after the Japan international struggled in the centre-forward role in Serbia.

Celtic had failed to make any chances from open play by half-time but they immediately improved, forcing three saves before Iheanacho took an excellent touch in the box and stroked the ball into the top corner in the 55th minute.

Rodgers hails Celtic forward Iheanacho

On the performance of Maeda, who was denied a summer move because of the club’s failure to source an adequate replacement, Rodgers told BT Sport: “He wasn’t at his best, or nowhere near it. However, he’s a good guy and sometimes that happens in the game.

“I could have made a couple of changes at half-time. I wanted to make that one certainly to give us that greater reference at the top of the pitch.

Celtic could not build on the opening goal and Marko Arnautovic scrambled the ball home from a corner 10 minutes later. But they held firm from some aerial pressure and Rodgers was pleased with the point against a side who, like Celtic, also suffered a shock Champions League play-off defeat after competing in Europe’s elite competition last season.

“This is a good point for this squad of players and for us coming here,” he said. “You come here, to a team that’s obviously won all of their domestic games, seven out of seven, coming to Belgrade is always a tough game.

Worse than Maeda: Rodgers must drop Celtic star who lost the ball 13x

Celtic endured a night of mixed fortunes away in Belgrade on Wednesday evening…

ByRobbie Walls Sep 25, 2025

“We had opportunities in the second half in particular. But we showed great resilience and showed moments of quality. Kels’ goal was absolutely outstanding and we had other moments in the second half. I still want us to be a little bit more proactive in the game. But overall, it was a nice first step for us in the competition.”

With a World Cup looming, Mauricio Pochettino and his squad still have questions – can they answer vs Ecuador?

AUSTIN, Texas – For months, fans have been clamoring for Mauricio Pochettino to deploy the strongest version of the U.S. men's national team. They'll get something close on Friday. There are a few absences, yes, but, by and large, the A-Team has arrived for Friday's clash against Ecuador.

That, in it of itself, is a reason for optimism and excitement.

Yes, it's good to see names like Malik Tillman, Weston McKennie and Antonee Robinson back in the mix, but what matters most is the result. There aren't many must-win friendlies and it would be unfair to classify the Ecuador match as that for the USMNT. A must-perform friendly, then? Yeah, that's more like it.

"It's difficult to convince you all that the most important thing today is not really the games," Pochettino said. "The most important thing is what we are building here in camp. Of course, we need to play and perform and we need to win because that gives credibility to our work, but I think we all have to be together to create a dynamic of the group that makes sure, in an important way, that we can perform."

As the USMNT build towards the World Cup, this is another chance to show progress. The win over Japan last camp was encouraging, and it certainly bought Pochettino and his staff some goodwill with a fanbase that was growing tired of losing and experimenting.

There's little experimentation in this camp, but that doesn't mean there's none. There are still some decisions and moves to be made, and they could be key to the result on Friday, next week against Australia and beyond.

"I promise you that no one is sure that they are going to be on the roster of the World Cup," Pochettino said. "I don't believe it was the same way before. Today, I can promise you that all of the guys feel the need to fight to be there. That is priceless. They all feel the need to get out of their comfort zone."

GOAL looks at five keys to the USMNT against Ecuador.

GettyWhat to do with Weah?

There's been a change in system and that change brings options. No player exemplifies that more than Tim Weah, who is an option both in the attack and defense for this game and for future matches.

Weah, traditionally, has been a winger for the USMNT. He was a right winger throughout the entirety of Gregg Berhalter's tenure. He has played on the left under Pochettino. Weah started his career on the wing and, given the pace he brings to a team, it's easy to see why he's always been there from a national team perspective.

Berhalter often used the team "verticality" to describe Weah, who keeps defenses in check with his ability to get in behind them, opening up space for others. However, in recent years, Weah has played a whole lot of wingback. He featured there prominently at Juventus, consistently playing that right-wingback role during his time in Turin.

Again, it's easy to see why. While Weah does bring that pace and dribbling ability, he's never quite been a lethal goalscorer. In that sense, he's a great fit for the role, which allows him to roam up and down the sidelines.

So, with the U.S. likely playing in a five-back system, where does Weah start? Is he in attack with Pulisic, continuing to push the defense back while letting a wingback such as Antonee Robinson cut inside? Or do you start him at wingback, allowing a player like Malik Tillman to enter the XI as a creative option?

It's an interesting dilemma, and the roster construction seems to indicate that Weah is, at the very least, depth at right-wingback, considering Alex Freeman is the only primary right-back in the team.

AdvertisementGettyThe third centerback spot

Chris Richards is starting. Tim Ream, more than likely, is too. So who's No. 3? If the U.S. rolls with this new system, who joins them? Mark McKenzie is one contender. He played in this system with Toulouse, which makes him a natural fit for that third spot. Furthermore, it seems Pochettino has been in his ear to discuss a role model, one that has played on the highest of levels.

“At Tottenham, there’s a player like Cuti Romero," McKenzie said on Morning Footy. "He’s a player Mauricio and I talk about constantly. It’s a balance between being a good guy off the pitch, very humble and calm, but as soon as he steps on the pitch, you feel his presence. He has a special aura. Any player who faces him will think it’s going to be a long day.

"So that’s an example of a player Mauricio and I sit down together and watch videos of. That’s the style he wants me to adopt. Once on the pitch, it’s about doing everything possible to benefit the team and get a win.”

Richards, meanwhile, was asked about McKenzie on Thursday, and how their partnership dates back years.

"Me and Mark have known each other for probably eight years now," he said. "Every time we step on the field together, it means a lot. I think we have really good chemistry, I think, because we have spent so much time off the field together. That makes it a lot easier on the field to know where the other person is going to be.

"This is stuff that we've been talking about since we were 17 years old – being on the senior national team and how we want to play. Hopefully, we get the chance."

McKenzie, of course, isn't the only candidate. Both Cameron Carter-Vickers and Miles Robinson will have something to say, too. No matter who starts, though, that third centerback spot is one to watch, and this game could offer some insight into who Pochettino sees as the top contender.

AFPWhat's up with midfield?

Tyler Adams isn't in camp, and it's for a good reason. He's due to welcome a baby into the world. That said, that leaves a hole in the USMNT midfield. Who fills that hole?

"It's a team sport, so we always have that next man up mindset," Richards said. "We love Tyler. We miss Tyler, but someone's gonna pick up his spot when he's not here. It's their chance to earn a starting spot even when he is here. When you're in camp, regardless of what reason, it's your chance to earn a spot."

A real contender to take that chance? Tanner Tessmann, who enters camp in incredible form with Lyon. That has him riding higher than ever as he heads into this game.

"I know that, yes, I can be the one that makes the difference," Tessmann told GOAL, "and, when those moments come, I'm going to go for it."

Is it Tessmann's spot to win? What about the likes of James Sands and Aidan Morris, two others with points to prove in midfield? How does the veteran Cristian Roldan fit in? All big questions. So, too, is what comes next for the biggest name in midfield, Weston McKennie?

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GettyWelcome back, Weston

McKennie admitted it on Thursday – it was a stressful summer. There were more questions about his future at Juventus, per usual. Every summer, those questions pop up. McKennie, thus far, has answered them every time and is determined to do so again.

"If you guys have followed my career, the summer is always a rollercoaster for me," he said. "Nothing's really changed. I'm kind of used to it now…. I don't think anyone wants to have their head messed with every summer, but I'm used to it. Whenever it comes around to summer time, I know it's the best time for me to put my head down, do my best and get to work to prove people wrong. But more importantly, prove myself right."

The thing is that, at the moment, McKennie also has a point to prove to Pochettino. Absent since March's Nations League defeat – including missing the Gold Cup with Juventus playing in the Club World Cup – McKennie faces a fight to stay in that midfield picture.

If the U.S. does go with two holding midfielders, one is going to be Adams. The other? It could be any of the names listed above: Tessmann, Sands or Morris. Down the line, it could be Johnny Cardoso or Yunus Musah.

All of that is to say that McKennie is closer to the pack than he is to Adams right now. Conveniently for him, in this camp, he is the big dog in midfield in terms of USMNT experience. That opens the door for him to put in some big performances that could remind everyone of why he has been so key over the years.

It's up to him, though, to perform. Once again, he looks to prove his doubters wrong and himself right.

Bowling coach is disappointed that the team came up short during “key moments”

Shashank Kishore27-Apr-20253:13

Jaffer on RR’s woes: When you lose, you start doubting yourself

Rajasthan Royals aren’t out of the playoff race yet, but with 14 points unlikely to be enough in IPL 2025, bowling coach Shane Bond hopes the squad uses the remaining five games to lay a strong foundation for next year.”We’re probably out of the tournament, but that doesn’t mean there’s not a lot to play for,” he said ahead of Monday’s home fixture against Gujarat Titans. “We want to make sure we finish the season strong and continue playing well.”Also, for individuals there’s a lot to play for. For next season, wanting to stay with the franchise, there’s always that up. For me it’s been really disappointing. I think we’re all competitive, we want to win and when you’ve got a bunch of people who have worked really hard like our guys have, I don’t expect them to just turn up and go through the motions.”RR are looking to snap a five-match losing streak, with three of those losses coming in chases they appeared to control – twice falling short needing nine off the final over and once needing just 18 off 12 with two set batters. Citing these missed chases, Bond strongly rejected suggestions that RR’s bowling, barring Jofra Archer, looked “toothless”.Related

Bruised RR look to avoid knockout blow against fluent GT

Parag: We didn't show enough intent against the spinners

“Toothless might be a little bit harsh,” he said. “The last three games, perhaps we should have chased and won. We’ve played pretty well over the last three games; we just haven’t won a couple of key moments. And so that’s why we’re sitting at the rear end of the table where perhaps we could have sat somewhere more in the middle.”We’ve had some big overs, there’s no denying that. We’ve had some bowlers who have had some tough days, but that’s probably been the same for a number of bowlers and teams throughout the tournament. So when you say toothless, what do you mean? I think collectively the bowling unit, especially over the last three games, have done a pretty good job and kept the opposition to scores perhaps we should have chased down.Shane Bond is hurting from Rajasthan Royals getting into winning positions and then losing•SA20

“I suppose the stuff that’s hardest is that for 35 overs of games we’ve played really well and in fact have been in control in some games and probably got into positions where we should have won. So you have to give credit to the opposition. They were good enough in those tight moments to go over the top of us and win those games. I suppose that’s what hurts.”After their seventh defeat two nights ago, Chennai Super Kings coach Stephen Fleming traced his side’s struggles to their auction. Bond didn’t think RR’s was a case of a poor auction as much as it was a case of missed opportunities.”I suppose that’s something you work through at the end of the season,” Bond said. “I think you also look at that perhaps at the end of an auction cycle. You look at the last three years cycle for Rajasthan, it was a great cycle. We made a final, made the playoffs, and were in contention all the time.”It’s not an ideal start [to the new auction cycle], but then at the end of the year that’s what you do. You look at your squad, you look at who’s performed, how do you make improvements and changes. I think every team does that.”In terms of whether it’s been a poor auction or not, I don’t really think about that too much to be honest. I’m not really involved in that process, but what you would say is I think we’ve played pretty good cricket, we just haven’t been quite good enough. As I said, if we seized a couple of key moments, it could very well look different on the table and we may not be having this conversation.”With Sanju Samson still recovering from an abdominal injury, Riyan Parag will keep captaincy of the side.”No, I don’t see him taking up on a permanent basis,” Bond said. “Obviously, we’ve lost our captain, which has hurt us a little bit. We’re a pretty young team. We’re an inexperienced team. Riyan – I know he’s been around the IPL for a while, but he’s pretty young to come in and lead the team. He’s actually done a really good job. We’re really happy with what he’s doing.”He would admit himself that he’s still learning the role, and we’ve got some good support around him. But so far, he’s got a very sharp cricketing brain. I think the stuff that he’s done on the field with the bowlers and the changes that he’s made have been really good. For us, I suppose the upside is you’ve got someone else who’s gained a little bit more leadership experience for next year as well.”I think when Sanju’s on the field, he’s been excellent. We’ll go into next season with two people who have got that captaincy experience, and I think that’s going to be good for the team in the long term.”

Orange Cap table

Suryakumar Yadav was in action, and true to his reputation and form, scored 57 in 39 balls to be MI’s top scorer on the night, but fell ten runs short of breaking up the Gujarat Titans (GT) monopoly at the top of the run-getters’ table. He ended the night on 640 runs, just nine behind second-placed Shubman Gill, with B Sai Sudharsan looking like he might become the first batter this season to top 700 runs when GT play next.Virat Kohli, following Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) washout against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and the 43 against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) remains at No. 6, but has a chance tonight against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) to at least get past Yashasvi Jaiswal of Rajasthan Royals (RR), who is done for the season and is currently at No. 5, just 11 runs ahead of Kohli.Also in action in that match will be LSG’s Mitchell Marsh, who is 80 runs behind Suryakumar and in with a chance of signing off from IPL 2025 with another big one.For PBKS, it has been more of a team effort when it comes to the batting, and that’s reflected on the leaderboard: Shreyas Iyer is their top scorer so far with 514 runs, which puts him at No. 9, with Prabhsimran Singh at No. 11 with 499 runs, and Priyansh Arya at No. 15 with 424 runs.

Purple Cap table

Arshdeep Singh played a big part in PBKS’ win over MI with 2 for 28, lifting him to 18 wickets and the fifth place on the Purple Cap table.Trent Boult could have challenged Noor Ahmad of Chennai Super Kings (CSK), the table-topper with 24 wickets, and GT’s Prasidh Krishna, No. 2 with 23, but went wicketless for MI against PBKS to stay in third place with 19 wickets.RCB’s Josh Hazlewood, if he plays on Tuesday night, could even go past Boult – he is just one wicket behind with 18.Here’s what ESPNcricinfo’s MVP table looks like.And here are some other IPL 2025 tables that show the season’s best performers in different aspects of the T20 game.

• Highest batting strike rates
• Best bowling economy rates
• Most sixes
• Best bowling figures in a match

MatériaMais Notícias

A Seleção Brasileira Pré-Olímpica, que está no Marrocos para a disputa de dois amistosos contra o time local, passou por um susto na noite de sexta-feira (8), durante terremoto de alta intensidade no país.

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+ Veja tabela e classificação do Brasileirão-2023 clicando aqui

Hospedada em Fez, cidade que fica a mais de 700 quilômetros do epicentro do abalo sísmico, a delegação está em total segurança. Todos os jogadores e integrantes da comissão técnica estão bem. Alguns deles falaram ao site da CBF sobre como reagiram aos tremores.

+ Já pensou em ser um gestor de futebol? Participe da nossa Masterclass com Felipe Ximenes e descubra oportunidades

– Sentimos um tremor muito forte, uma sensação terrível. A cama começou a balançar de um lado para o outro. Vi os lustres também balançando. Imaginei logo, Já tinha passado por isso três vezes. Mas ontem (sexta-feira, dia 8) foi forte. Corri para o armário, peguei meus celulares e passaporte e saí correndo, chamando os atletas para que descessem pela escada em busca de um abrigo – disse o coordenador-técnico das Seleções de Base da CBF, o ex-jogador Branco.

+ Neymar supera Pelé e se torna o maior artilheiro da história da Seleção Brasileira

O lateral Abner contou que o susto deu lugar à necessidade de tranquilizar parentes e amigos. 

– Naquele momento, tomamos um susto. Porém, estamos em segurança e isso nos conforta. A gente está falando sobre vidas, um terremoto, uma tragédia, nunca é fácil falar sobre isso, e agora o adversário do próximo amistoso e o próprio jogo ficam de lado. Na hora, pensamos logo em buscar abrigo para ficar em segurança. Em seguida, no meu caso, procurei contato com os familiares e amigos para tranquilizá-los.

Na manhã deste sábado (9), o meia Paulinho também deu detalhes do evento e relatou outros momentos em que passou por isso.

– Eu estava deitado e comecei a sentir a cama tremer. Levantei assustado, olhei para o abajur e vi que estava balançando. Aí, saí do quarto. Foi um susto e buscamos segurança. Fomos muito bem tratados e orientados e seguimos para a área da piscina por precaução, é um lugar mais aberto. Graças a Deus estamos em segurança – contou o meia-atacante antes de completar:

+ Fifa reconhece recorde de Neymar na Seleção Brasileira: ‘Novo rei’

– Já passei por outros terremotos, no Chile, por exemplo, servindo à Seleção sub-17, mas não com essa intensidade. Ontem (sexta-feira), tive medo, com certeza, num primeiro momento. Depois, a gente fica preocupado em tentar tranquilizar logo os familiares

Segundo as agências de notícias internacionais, já são mais de mil mortos pela tragédia no Marrocos. Os jogadores prestaram solidariedade pelo momento que o país africano está passado.

– Infelizmente já sabemos do número de mortos … é algo muito grave, a gente fica sentido e presta nossa solidariedade a todo povo marroquino e aos que estão ajudando na busca dessas pessoas – declarou Paulinho.

+ Neymar se emociona em homenagem da CBF após feito histórico com a camisa da Seleção

– Quero prestar solidariedade aos marroquinos, a todos aqueles que estão trabalhando nas buscas de salvamento. É uma situação muito triste – reforçou o goleiro Matheus Cunha.

A Seleção Brasileira sub-23 foi derrotada por 1 a 0 no primeiro amistoso diante da seleção olímpica de Marrocos. Está marcado para segunda-feira (11), o segundo jogo entre as equipes, que deve acontecer no Complexo Esportivo de Fez.

EA Sports FC 26 is released later this month, amid much excitement, so we’ve shared the 10 fastest players on the game, from Kylian Mbappe to Vinicius Junior.The much-anticipated game gets its worldwide release on September 26th, as football fans across the globe look to show off their gaming expertise.The question is: who are the fastest players on the game? And is their place fully merited? Here are the top 10…

10

Ousmane Dembele

Speed: 91

It has been quite a 12 months or so for Ousmane Dembele, who has not only won the Champions League with Paris Saint-Germain, but is also the favourite to win the prestigious Ballon d’Or later this year.

The Frenchman is known for his quick feet and end product, but his blistering pace arguably stands out more than anything, hence him sneaking his way into the 10 fastest players on EA Sports FC 26.Dembele gets a 91 rating for speed – something most of us can only dream of!

9

Sophia Wilson

Speed: 92

The first female entry on the list is Portland Thorns FC forward Sophia Wilson, who is renowned for the pace she is able to generate in attacking areas.

The 25-year-old is a key player for the USA at international level, scoring 24 goals in 58 caps, with her speed helping her get into great positions and take down her opponents.

Wilson is one of four players here to get a 92 pace rating.

8

Victor Osimhen

Speed: 92

One of the most dominant strikers in the world on his day, Victor Osimhen has been a nightmare for defenders to face in recent years, not least during an unstoppable period in Serie A for Napoli.

Not only does the Nigerian possess power and stature leading the line, but his speed is the cherry on top, allowing him to make runs in behind before finishing in deadly fashion.

Osimhen may not always look like one of the fastest players around, but when he gets going and reaches full pace, he is a sight to behold.

7

Achraf Hakimi

Speed: 92

Is there a better right-back in the world at the moment than Achraf Hakimi? It would take a bold person to claim that anyone is better.

The Algerian has matured into a wonderful player for PSG, playing such an important role in his side’s Champions League success last season, providing scintillating pace from deep.

Hakimi’s pace is also a valuable asset to have at the other end of the pitch, allowing him to thwart danger if he is out of position, and he is the seventh-fastest player on EA Sports FC 26.

6

Kadidiatou Diani

Speed: 92

Kadidiatou Diani is next up, with the Lyon attacker one of the fastest players in the women’s game and topping the scoring charts in the Champions League in 2023/24.

Now 30 years of age, there don’t appear to be too many signs of her pace dwindling in her autumn years, and she places at a highly impressive sixth on the list of quickest players.

5

Nico Williams

Speed: 93

Lamine Yamal may take the limelight as Spain’s star winger in the current game, but Nico Williams is a fantastic player in his own right, not to mention a speedier option than Barcelona’s teenage superstar.

The Athletic Bilbao wide man has a devilish combination of lightning pace and strength in wide areas, allowing him to give even the best full-backs in Europe a tough assignment, and he is a joy to watch at his best.

Williams edges his way into the top five here, outlining just how quick he is.

4

Melchie Dumornay

Speed: 93

Lyon midfielder Melchie Dumornay is rated here as the fastest player in the women’s game, notching a 93 rating for pace, which is the same as Williams.

The 20-cap and 20-goal Haiti international was named the Champions League Young Player of the Season in both 2023/24 and 2024/25, and it is going to be fascinating to see how her career pans out.

The unstoppable pace that Dumornay has in her locker is such a great weapon to have.

3

Nuno Mendes

Speed: 95

If Hakimi was impressive for PSG on the right flank, Nuno Mendes may have been even better at left-back for the reigning European champions.

Surely the world’s best player in his position currently, the Portuguese has been given a speed rating of 95, which seems entirely fair when you watch him in the flesh.

The pace that Mendes can provide on the overlap is a great foil for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, allowing the Georgian to cut inside from the left wing, and at just 23 years of age, there will be so many more years of seeing him flying down the left-hand side.

2

Vinicius Junior

Speed: 95

Vinicius Junior is one of the best attacking players of his generation, possessing Brazilian flair and a relentless flow of goals and assists from his favoured left-sided role.

The Real Madrid icon can be unplayable on his day, proving capable of cutting inside and also hitting the byline, and a lot of that is due to the incredible speed that he has in his armoury.

Vinicius is deemed to be the second-fastest player on EA Sports FC 26, getting a 95 rating to put him on the same level as Mendes. So who comes in at No.1?

1

Kylian Mbappe

Speed: 97

Perhaps unsurprisingly, Kylian Mbappe is still seen as the fastest player in the world – in fact, there aren’t many footballers in history who can lay claim to being as quick as him.

The World Cup and Champions League-winning Frenchman is arguably the world’s best player currently, but for all his inch-perfect finish and cleverly-timed runs, it is his speed that most associate him with.

Mbappe in full flight almost feels like you’re watching peak Usain Bolt, with the 26-year-old’s giant strides allowing him to pull clear of opponents and so often find the back of the net.

He is a worthy choice as the fastest player.

The 10 fastest players on EA Sports FC 26	Pace rating
1. Kylian Mbappe	97
2. Vinicius Junior	95
3. Nuno Mendes	95
4. Melchie Dumornay	93
5. Nico Williams	93
6. Kadidiatou Diani	92
7. Achraf Hakimi	92
8. Victor Osimhen	92
9. Sophia Wilson	92
10. Ousmane Dembele	91

Former Aston Villa striker and pundit Gabriel Agbonlahor has doubted whether Tottenham manager Thomas Frank can truly rely on one Spurs star this season.

Tottenham battle to 2-1 victory at Leeds United

On a rainy afternoon in Yorkshire, Frank’s side battled to a 2-1 win at Leeds United in the early kick-off, becoming the first team to beat Daniel Farke’s side at Elland Road in the league for over a year.

The match began with Leeds on the front foot, but it was Tottenham who opened the scoring midway through the first half. Mathys Tel broke the deadlock, his shot taking a deflection on its way past the Leeds goalkeeper after being set up by man of the match Mohammed Kudus.

Mohammed Kudus

8.4

Mathys Tel

7.8

Noah Okafor

7.0

Sean Longstaff

7.0

Jayden Bogle

6.8

via WhoScored

The home side responded well — grabbing an equalizer before the break through Noah Okafor — and supporters would’ve been forgiven for thinking Tottenham may well capitulate.

After half-time, both teams pressed for a winner in a lively contest, but the decisive moment arrived in the 64th minute when Kudus capped off a strong display by cutting inside and firing a low shot that deflected off a Pascal Struijk and into the net.

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Leeds pushed for another equalizer, but Spurs’ defense held firm, and goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario made crucial second-half saves.

Before what was a hard-fought contest, where the Leeds faithful were in full voice and Spurs made to work hard for their win, Frank axed struggling striker Richarlison in favour of Tel.

His decision was justly rewarded by the Frenchman’s opening goal, and while Richarlison did replace Tel late in the second half, he once again failed to make an impact when Frank’s side were under the cosh.

Gabriel Agbonlahor says Thomas Frank should be worried about Richarlison

The Brazil international started 2025/2026 in fine form, scoring a brace against Burnley, which included a stunning bicycle kick in what was an early goal of the season contender.

He also notched an assist during Tottenham’s superb 2-0 win away to Man City, but apart from a tap-in against Brighton thereafter, Richarlison has largely struggled to make a serious impact in place of Dominic Solanke.

While Spurs hope that Solanke will return soon after the international break, following the Englishman’s minor ankle surgery, Frank has just Tel and Richarlison to choose from in the number nine role.

Tel’s strike against Leeds this afternoon was perhaps the beginning of the end of Richarlison’s run in the starting eleven, and Agbonlahor said earlier this week that Tottenham cannot rely on the 28-year-old who cost £60 million to sign from Everton in 2022.

The former Toffees star, despite flashes of true brilliance at times, has largely failed to justify his price tag — with Richarlison also suffering lengthy injury lay-offs during Ange Postecoglou’s final campaign in charge.

His contract expires in 2027, and some reports suggest that Richarlison could join Crystal Palace for around £20-25 million next year.

CEO Vinai Venkatesham and the Lilywhites hierarchy have a key decision to make on the attacker’s future, and it will be interesting to see whether suitors could come forward in January.

As part of Manchester United’s £200m+ shopping spree this summer, Bryan Mbeumo completed a move to Old Trafford to try and improve the situation within the final third.

The Red Devils only netted 44 league goals in 2024/25, with the Cameroonian scoring 20 in the Premier League alone last campaign – a tally which was 45% of the Red Devils’ total.

Whilst he cost a pretty penny, arriving in a £71m deal including add-ons, he does possess the top-flight experience needed to transform the side after last year’s dismal finish.

The 26-year-old has already hit the ground running for his new side, scoring twice in his opening four outings – including in the recent league clash against Burnley at the Theatre of Dreams.

If Mbeumo is to achieve further success during his spell at United, he will likely star alongside one talent who’s been a constant positive influence despite the slump over the last few years.

Bruno Fernandes’ time at Manchester United

Upon his big-money transfer from Sporting CP in the winter of 2020, no United supporter would’ve anticipated the phenomenal level of output produced by Bruno Fernandes.

The Portuguese international arrived as an unknown quantity to many, but he quickly showcased his talents, scoring 12 and registering eight assists in his first 22 outings for the club.

Since his debut campaign, the 30-year-old has gone from strength to strength at Old Trafford, now racking up a total of 99 goals in his 254 appearances for the Red Devils.

Bruno has since taken on the role of captaincy under various managers, highlighting the importance to the side and the faith shown in him to take the club back to their former glory.

Despite the failures under Amorim last campaign, the midfield still managed to thrive, notching 37 combined goals and assists – by far and away the highest tally of any player in the squad.

He continued to be a constant creative threat, extending his tally and remaining as the player with the most through balls completed in Europe since 2022/23 – with his tally higher than those of Kevin de Bruyne and Martin Odegaard.

There’s no denying he’s one of the best additions ever made by the recruitment team, with another player joining him in that department, given his own rise at the club.

The United star who’s been the best signing since Bruno

United have been known to conduct some questionable pieces of transfer business over the last couple of years, which has undoubtedly contributed to their demise.

The likes of Casemiro, Antony and Rasmus Hojlund all joined the Red Devils in deals worth £70m or over, but none of which have failed to make a consistent positive impression on the fanbase.

The latter two of the duo both departed the club in the closing stages of the transfer window, further showcasing the poor business conducted by the board over recent seasons.

However, the same can’t be said for defender Noussair Mazraoui, with the Moroccan international cementing himself as a key player since his move 12 months ago.

The Red Devils paid just £12.7m for his signature from Bayern Munich, making him one of the cheaper additions made by Erik ten Hag during his time in Manchester.

Such a move now appears to be a genius one, as the 27-year-old ended the 2024/25 campaign with 57 appearances across all competitions – the most of any player in the first-team squad.

He operated in various roles such as wing-back, full-back and centre-back, showcasing his versatility which made him such an important aspect of Amorim’s system.

Games played

37

Minutes played

2848

Pass accuracy

86%

Dribbles completed

60%

Tackles made

2.2

Tackle success rate

60%

Cross success rate

26%

Duels won

6.8

Mazraoui has already earned himself huge admirers behind the scenes at United, with multiple insiders claiming that the former Ajax star is the best signing made by the club in many years.

His underlying stats in 2024/25 further highlight his impressive start to life in England, leading to journalist Umir Irfan labelling the full-back as “incredible”.

The Moroccan won 2.2 tackles per 90 last campaign, winning 60% of the dispossession attempts he entered – subsequently showcasing his tremendous ability out of possession.

He also thrived with the ball at his feet, completing 86% of the passes he attempted, whilst also completing 60% of his dribbles, which allows him to end the year with two assists despite his defensive role.

£12.7m for a player of Mazraoui’s quality is a tremendous piece of business – especially when taking into account the failures of the players before him who accrued mammoth sums of money.

Should he carry on at such a level in 2025/26, there’s no reason as to why he can’t be as important as Bruno in the club’s hunt for success in the near future.

Ten Hag sold Man Utd's "young Giggs" for just £15m, now he's like Mbeumo

Manchester United made a huge mistake in allowing one talented star to leave under Erik ten Hag.

1 ByEthan Lamb Sep 11, 2025

Mic'd Up: The ESPN analyst says La Liga match in Miami will benefit a U.S. soccer fan base that is more passionate than some believe

Herculez Gomez likes the idea of an official La Liga match being played in the U.S., at least, in theory. But it's not for the reason you might think. Some say it's about money, some say it's about soccer imperialism – throwing a product in front of people who don't know what to do with it.

Gomez's perspective is that the December game between Barcelona and Villarreal in Miami reinforces a simple fact: America is a soccer country.

"If anybody tells you the United States, is not a soccer country, they're dead wrong. It's a massive soccer country. It's just not a U.S. men's national team or Major League Soccer country," the ESPN+ analyst and host of Futbol Americas tells GOAL.

In some senses, this is a good thing. There are fans here who will pay high prices to watch soccer. But the issue, Gomez argues, is precedent, the soccer version of "opening Pandora's box." And it's not just La Liga or European football that could get involved.

"U.S. Soccer has a neighbor down south whose biggest market happens to be the United States," he says. "Allowing Barcelona and Villarreal to come play in Miami… what's to stop Club America and Chivas coming down to the Rose Bowl? They've sold out 90-plus thousand for a friendly."

That possibility raises larger questions. Will this help or harm MLS? How does U.S. soccer, as a whole, handle the potential match expansion? What seems like a singular moment could ultimately be a pivot point.

Gomez, who also has thoughts on the latest USMNT camp, spoke about the impact of the La Liga match in Miami in Mic'd Up, a recurring feature in which GOAL taps into the perspective of analysts, announcers and other pundits on the state of soccer in the U.S. and abroad. 

Villarreal-Barcelona in Miami: Pre-sale Oct. 21

Ticket accessAFPON LA LIGA MATCHES IN THE U.S.

GOAL: You've spoken before about La Liga being matches played in the United States. First of all, your general thoughts on that? Because I know that there's been quite a bit of conversation here.

GOMEZ: My general thought is less on what happens to La Liga and its tradition and those who are for or against it, and more how that impacts U.S. soccer. This is opening Pandora's box, and you can't say it's only good for La Liga. U.S. Soccer has a neighbor down south whose biggest market happens to be the United States. Allowing Barcelona and Villarreal to come play in Miami… what's to stop Club America and Chivas coming down to the Rose Bowl? They've sold out 90-plus thousand for a friendly game. So this is a precedent that the U.S. Soccer is setting, and one that many leagues could exploit. 

This is a coveted market. There was a reason the Club World Cup came to the United States. There's a reason the World Cup will be, for the second time, in the United States. And still to this day, the 1994 World Cup is the most successful in terms of revenue and marketing and attendance. There's a reason for these things. If anybody tells you the United States, is not a soccer country, they're dead wrong. It's a massive soccer country. It's not just a U.S. men's national team or Major League Soccer country. But  there are massive fans in this country who will pay top dollar, and if you allow it, I'm not opposed to it. But if you allow La Liga, you're allowing everybody.”

AdvertisementAFPON THE IMPLICATIONS FOR MLS

GOAL: I wanted to pick up on the last thing you said. Should MLS be worried?

GOMEZ: I think they'll be OK. And I think US Soccer will be OK with the check being split in their direction, as well. But certainly you'd like for some of these young Americans to say, "Yeah, OK, Real, Madrid, that's my team." Or Barcelona, or Man United, or Club America.

But they should also have a Major League Soccer team or a team near around their market that they care deeply for. And that's where I think MLS is struggling. They still haven't crossed over into that divide and really conquered the American fan by claiming them, as well.

Getty Images SportON HOW MLS COULD BENEFIT

GOAL: Do you think this could be part of that effort by extension – or is that a disadvantage?

GOMEZ: I can't sit here and say it won't, because we've seen during World Cups how MLS has grown. Their numbers go up because fans watch a game, a national team game, or watch something and they get inspired to take their kids to an MLS game.

We've seen the numbers go up. So I can't say it won't happen that way. But I think it's fairly naive to bank on things always being like that.

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GOALPREVIOUS EDITIONS OF MIC'D UP

Oct. 3: Herculez Gomez: ESPN analyst unconvinced by USMNT's Mauricio Pochettino, but calls recent results 'his most impressive window'

Oct. 2: Clive Tyldesley: CBS analyst on Americans in the Champions League, 'big year' for USMNT at the World Cup and protecting young footballers

Sept. 30 – David Villa: Spain legend and DAZN analyst on Barcelona's Champions League hopes, 'amazing' Lamine Yamal and 'great opportunity' for U.S. to host World Cup

Sept. 17 – Stu Holden: FOX analyst on Gio Reyna's revival, Christian Pulisic’s AC Milan future and how Mauricio Pochettino can form 'U.S. team that makes us excited'

Sept. 11 – Maurice Edu: Apple TV analyst grades Mauricio Pochettino's first year as USMNT boss, wonders where Weston McKennie has been?

Sept. 9 – Sacha Kljestan: Apple TV analyst urges USMNT's Mauricio Pochettino to stick with core group, weighs in on MLS and Inter Miami's Luis Suarez

Aug. 28 – Keith Costigan: Apple TV analyst on Arsenal's need for a trophy, why 'writing off Liverpool is absolutely silly' and how Club World Cup can spark MLS growth

Aug. 21 – Marcelo Balboa: Apple TV analyst calls out fellow former USMNT players for vitriol toward Christian Pulisic, hails impact of Son Heung-Min in MLS

Aug. 15 – Nedum Onuoha: ESPN analyst on why Antonee Robinson is 'as good as any' defender in Premier League, concerns over Alexander Isak, expected Man City rebound

Aug. 6 – Kasey Keller: ESPN analyst calls out Mauricio Pochettino's underwhelming record with USMNT, hails Matt Turner's 'brilliant' return to MLS

July 31 – Andres and Nico Cantor: Father-son analysts on Mauricio Pochettino's chief challenge with USMNT, and Inter Miami's Leo Messi 'completing football

July 29 – Dax McCarty: Apple TV's Dax McCarty on why MLS was right to suspend Lionel Messi, the new Leagues Cup format, and why Club America is favorite

July 25 – Derek Rae: ESPN commentator on Gio Reyna's flawed fit at Dortmund, why 'nobody knows' how good 22-year-old USMNT midfielder can be

July 7 – Callum Williams: Apple TV, world soccer commentator on the impact of Brazilian teams at the Club World Cup

June 27 – Kyle Martino: TNT analyst on USMNT goalscoring void, the state of the program and the return of Showdown to NYC

June 23 – Dax McCarty: Apple TV analyst on the opportunity, pressure facing Mauricio Pochettino and USMNT ahead of World Cup

June 19 – Herculez Gomez: ESPN analyst on why he's bullish about Club World Cup, memories of playing in CWC, how 2026 World Cup could be 'biggest sporting event ever'

June 17 – Herculez Gomez: ESPN analyst on Christian Pulisic controversy, state of USMNT, fractures in fan base and his admiration for 'highly relatable' Diego Luna

June 11 – Diego Valeri: Apple TV+ analyst on Lionel Messi’s MLS impact, supporting rival Sounders at Club World Cup, and U.S. and Argentina ties

May 21 – Taylor Twellman: Apple TV+ analyst on 'exciting' matchups in the Club World Cup, why a top European team will win, and how Inter Miami can benefit

May 13 – Kay Murray: ESPN FC analyst on Americans supporting Club World Cup, European teams vying for trophy, and whether an MLS team can make a run

May 9 – Luis Garcia: ESPN Analyst on Barcelona and 'fantastic' Lamine Yamal, why Real Madrid lack a philosophy, and Trent Alexander-Arnold leaving Liverpool

May 1 – Derek Rae: ESPN analyst on Harry Kane's trophy quest, Gio Reyna's Borussia Dortmund struggles, the meaning behind 'the smell of the stable'

April 28 – Christina Unkel: CBS Sports rules analyst on VAR challenges, 'visibility' in refereeing, former players becoming officials

April 25 – Alejandro Moreno: ESPN FC pundit on Kylian Mbappe's Real Madrid disappointment, Carlo Ancelotti's final season, 'best in the world' Lamine Yamal

April 24 – Bradley Wright-Phillips: Apple TV analyst on the 'brilliance' of Lionel Messi, 'chippy' Inter Miami, and why Kevin De Bruyne's next team should be NYCFC

April 22 – Ali Krieger: ESPN analyst on Naomi Girma's Chelsea move, the 'amazing' Emma Hayes and why NWSL 'can't just dilute the league by expanding'

April 16 – Jamie Carragher: CBS analyst on Club World Cup and packed schedule, 'disappointing' Trent Alexander-Arnold, 'delightful' Mo Salah deal

April 14 – Kevin Egan: Apple TV+ host on the 2026 World Cup, 2025 Club World Cup and growth of game in America

April 11 – Kay Murray: ESPN FC host on Harry Kane and Bayern Munich's Bundesliga ambitions, 'undeniable talent' of Gio Reyna, and Ballon d'Or race without 'a standout contender'

April 8 – Kevin Egan: Apple TV analyst on possible Kevin De Bruyne link with Lionel Messi and MLS, Cavan Sullivan's 'swagger' and 'next-level' Wilfried Nancy

March 26 – Kasey Keller: 'Guys that would rather be on the beach' – ESPN's Kasey Keller knocks 'general malaise' of USMNT players, says Mauricio Pochettino must show 'he's 100 percent committed'

March 21 – Kaylyn Kyle: Apple TV studio analyst on Lionel Messi and Inter Miami, the 'chaotic' nature of MLS, why NWSL player exodus could 'hurt the league

March 13 – Micah Richards: CBS Sports analyst on Man City's future, why Real Madrid will win Champions League, and that bet with Jude Bellingham

March 11 – Antonella Gonzalez: Apple TV’s Antonella Gonzalez on interviewing Inter Miami's Lionel Messi, the rise of Latin American influence in MLS, and being a Hispanic woman in broadcasting

March 4 – Nico Cantor: CBS Analyst on 'world-class' Mauricio Pochettino, 'mixed' Champions League format, and why USL can compete with MLS

Feb 26 – Andrew Wiebe: Apple TV analyst Andrew Wiebe on San Jose Earthquakes' 'massive offseason', Kevin De Bruyne's potential MLS arrival, league’s growth

Feb. 20 – Taylor Twellman: Apple TV's analyst on Lionel Messi's Inter Miami 'laying an egg' in MLS playoffs, Cavan Sullivan, and why Cincinnati are a threat

Feb. 18 – Taylor Twellman: Apple TV analyst on USMNT World Cup aspirations, Mauricio Pochettino, and team's signature wins – or lack thereof

Feb. 11 – Maurice Edu: Apple TV analyst on national team's potential, Cavan Sullivan's 'borderline arrogance' and 'global shop window' of MLS

Jan. 30 – Keith Costigan: Apple TV commentator on Mo Salah and Liverpool, the Olivier Giroud experiment at LAFC and more

Jan 28 – Nigel Reo-Coker: CBS Sports Golazo Network analyst on the new Champions League format, state of American soccer and Aston Villa

Jan 20 – Kate Scott: CBS Sports host on the American soccer psyche, USMNT's 'statement' hire in Mauricio Pochettino, 'enormous' 2026 World Cup and why Liverpool will win Champions League

Jan 13 – DaMarcus Beasley: USMNT legend on Lionel Messi's mindset, the 'good groove' for MLS and why Mauricio Pochettino is the 'right man for the job'

Jan. 9 – Callum Williams: Soccer analyst on Lionel Messi and 2025 Club World Cup, 'naivety towards' South American soccer, 'preposterous' that Jack Grealish has 'lost it'

Jan. 2 – Jenny Chiu: CBS reporter on 'big changes' by Emma Hayes, Mauricio Pochettino's 'pedigree' and possible UCL glory for Inter

Dec. 17 – Stu Holden: FOX Sports analyst on the evolution of the American game, why Christian Pulisic will be 'best U.S. Soccer player of all-time'

Dec. 12 – Brian Dunseth: Turner, Apple TV analyst on Ricardo Pepi, Christian Pulisic, Gio Reyna and USMNT's future under Mauricio Pochettino

Dec. 5 – Jalil Anibaba: Apple TV analyst on MLS Cup predictions, Inter Miami hiring Javier Mascherano and MLS's 'disheartening' coaching diversity issue

Nov. 21 – Andres Cantor: Telemundo legend on Mauricio Pochettino's Argentine mindset, the USMNT and having a front-row seat for the rise of the American game

Nov. 16 – Matt Doyle: Apple TV analyst assesses Inter Miami's defensive 'insanity,' whether Neymar could join Lionel Messi, MLS Cup favorite

Nov. 7 – Gary Neville: Veteran analyst talks USMNT World Cup hopes, 'hell of a player' Christian Pulisic, 'relentless' David Beckham, and Cristiano Ronaldo to MLS

Oct. 31 – Herculez Gomez: ESPN FC analyst on Mauricio Pochettino's impact, the USMNT's 'wide-open' striker race, and a player pool 'that lacks accountability'

Oct. 29 – Rebecca Lowe: NBC host on the growth of soccer, the 'incredible' Emma Hayes and 'profile-raising' Mauricio Pochettino

Oct. 24 – Andrew Wiebe: Apple TV analyst on MLS playoffs, Lionel Messi's 'nuclear form' and how Inter Miami can become league's 'greatest team of all time

Oct. 17 – Jamie Carragher: Veteran analyst talks USMNT, slams Man City over legal case, questions Mauricio Pochettino despite 'great' hire

انتقد الألماني توني كروس، قرار مواطنه هانز فليك، المدير الفني للفريق الأول لكرة القدم بنادي برشلونة في مباراة ريال مدريد بكلاسيكو الدوري الإسباني.

وتمكن ريال مدريد من الفوز على برشلونة بثنائية مقابل هدف، في المباراة التي جمعتهما ضمن منافسات الجولة العاشرة من “لا ليجا”، على ملعب “سانتياجو برنابيو”.

وخلال البودكاست الذي يقدمه كروس رفقة أخيه، انتقد الألماني مشاركة إريك جارسيا في المباراة بجانب باو كوبارسي في مباراة تنافسية وقوية مثيل ريال مدريد.

وقال كروس، ونقلت تصريحاته صحيفة “آس” الإسبانية: “في قلب الدفاع، لا أفهم سبب لعب جارسيا برغم من أنه من الناحية الكروية أفضل قليلًا من أراوخو لكن الأخير يتمتع بالقوة البدنية الكافية لملاحقة الخصوم بشكل أكبر، خاصةً عندما تدافع من منطقة متقدمة في الملعب، كان ليكون اللاعب المثالي لهذا الأسلوب وهذا الخصم”.

اقرأ أيضًا | ثنائي برشلونة يغيب عن تدريبات الفريق.. و”سبورت” توضح السبب

وأضاف: “عندما يكون مبابي وفينيسيوس في مواجهتك فأنت بحاجة إلى لاعب يتمتع بهذه السرعة، أراوخو قادر على ذلك ولقد فوجئت جدًا بغيابه”.

وانتقد كروس عدم وجود بديل لراحل إينيجو مارتينيز: “لقد ذكرت ذلك بالفعل حينها، كان إينيجو مارتينيز مهمًا للغاية، في العام الماضي كان قلب دفاع برشلونة بأفضل مستوى له وكان الأكثر تأثيرًا في توزيع الكرة في كافة أرجاء الملعب، لم يكن الأسرع لكنه كان مدافعًا ممتازًا ولديه طريقة لعب رائعة”.

وأردف: “ضد ريال مدريد كان غيابه ملحوظًا عندما عانى الفريق تحت الضغط العالي المتواصل الذي نفذه اللاعبون، لم يخرجه فليك من الملعب وهذا كان له أثر على النتيجة”.

وأتم: “من الإنصاف القول إن برشلونة وصل ضعيفًا للغاية، من حارس المرمى إلى المدرب، كما كانوا يفتقدون لاعبين أساسيين مهمين مثل رافينها وداني أولمو وليفاندوفسكي”.