Manchester City may yet make some more first-team signings this summer, but Pep Guardiola will first push some of the flotsam out of the door.

The likes of Jack Grealish and Kalvin Phillips seemingly have no future of substance within the Etihad Stadium first-team, and will surely take their leave before the end of the month.

The Citizens have also rejected an offer from Nottingham Forest for James McAtee, though the Tricky Trees are expected to return.

Guardiola enjoys working with smaller squads; he’s been vocal on that matter. However, the Spanish tactician might be convinced to add one talented Premier League talent to his ranks before the market slams shut.

Man City considering Prem star

Manchester City’s interest in Morgan Gibbs-White this summer suggests that Pep would be interested in adding some robust technical quality to his midfield.

Exciting French talent Rayan Cherki arrived from Lyon earlier in the summer for £34m, but the 21-year-old isn’t a player who can shuffle between offensive and deeper-lying zones with the greatest ease, his exciting qualities best served toward the attacking third of the field.

That one appears to be dead in the water, but that’s not to say City wouldn’t push ahead with another deal, should Grealish and McAtee both leave.

Indeed, according to Globo Esporte in Brazil, Man City have revived their interest in West Ham United’s Lucas Paqueta after the playmaker was exonerated in his high-profile spot-fixing case, which scuppered his £80m move to the club two years ago.

The 27-year-old is not priced in the sale towering ballpark anymore, with the Hammers seeking no more than £60m for his sale this summer.

What Lucas Paqueta would bring to Man City

Once hailed as a “magician” of a midfielder by reporter Robbie Mustoe, Paqueta joined West Ham from Lyon for a club-record £51m fee in 2021.

He’s since played 120 times for the Londoners, scoring 18 goals and providing 14 assists. The Brazil international played the assist into Jarrod Bowen’s path to win the Conference League in 2022.

Paqueta’s contentious reputation following the events of recent years, partnered with the fact that his departure wouldn’t carry the same poignancy for those of an Irons persuasion as with two years ago, could lead him to become Man City’s own version of Eric Cantona, whose finest days as a footballer were found on the red side of Manchester.

Cantona is considered one of the most notorious and talented players to have competed in the Premier League, joining the Red Devils from Leeds United for just north of £1m in 1992.

Though the move was met with fury from the Whites fanbase, it was maybe an astute piece of business given that he was a turbulent part of the squad.

Hailed as being “the catalyst that really galvanised the team for the next 25 years” at Man United by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the Frenchman was the real deal, posting 145 goal contributions from 185 matches in the nineties.

Could the £150k-per-week Paqueta have a similarly talismanic effect on this City side? They are hardly in disarray, but perhaps in need of some added inspiration and creative flair across the coming terms to reinstate this outfit as the indomitable force at the pinnacle.

Paqueta is confident and mature at 27. Likewise, Cantona was in the senior stage of his professional career when he made his big move, at 26 years old.

Paqueta lacks the same invincibility he might have felt when he wrapped up the 2023/24 season under David Moyes’ wing, having stumbled and fallen to the wayside over the past year.

But he’s now picked himself back up, absolved of wrongdoing in his recently closed court case. It means that Paqueta can focus solely on his football across the next few years of his prime, and where better to see those terms out than at Man City?

He remains one of the most talented and well-rounded midfielders in the Premier League, and a player who City could utilise to restore some of their former strength over the coming year – he’s proven in England’s top flight, as was Cantona, after all.

Matches (starts)

31 (31)

33 (27)

Goals

4

4

Assists

6

0

Touches*

65.7

58.6

Pass completion

75%

79%

Big chances created

12

4

Key passes*

1.4

1.1

Dribble success

59%

50%

Tackles + interceptions*

3.0

2.5

Duels (won)*

7.6 (50%)

6.0 (48%

Perhaps Paqueta lacked fluency and focus last season, but he didn’t endure a drastic drop-off, retaining the core elements of his skill set, which Pep could surely bring back to the fore. At his best, the one-time Flamengo man is Cantona-esque, with a certain Paul Scholes having even made that comparison:

As per FBref, Paqueta ranked among the top 6% of positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues last season for passes attempted, the top 13% for progressive passes, the top 3% for tackles, and the top 3% for ball recoveries per 90, highlighting the wide breadth of skill and style that would be woven into the City fold.

Ultimately, Man City have so much quality in their ranks, and they would enrich that quality further still by signing Paqueta. However, Guardiola would also add a player with a combative mindset whose signature comes attached with more than a measure of controversy.

But, with Kevin De Bruyne having departed at the end of his contract, this might be a fantastic move to make for City as they gear up to reclaim their Premier League title.

After all, Paqueta was profiled comprehensively two years ago, and he could be a fantastic addition to a team in transition.

Bigger English talent than Trafford: Man City still pursuing £50m sensation

Man City are hoping to sign more players after Trafford

1 ByJoe Nuttall Jul 31, 2025

MatériaMais Notícias

Uma das novidades do time comandado por Paulo Turra na classificação do Athletico-PR sobre o Botafogo, na Copa do Brasil. foi o retorno de Tomás Cuello entre os titulares.

RelacionadasAthletico ParanaenseBento, goleiro do Athletico, provoca torcedores do Botafogo após classificação na Copa do BrasilAthletico Paranaense01/06/2023BotafogoVÍDEO: veja a disputa de pênaltis de Botafogo x Athletico-PR pela Copa do BrasilBotafogo01/06/2023Futebol LatinoApós queda no Mundial Sub-20, Mascherano volta a falar em renúnciaFutebol Latino01/06/2023

Por conta da qualificação, o argentino acredita que o elenco ganha confiança, em muito, por conta da dificuldade do confronto esperada (e que se concretizou) no confronto da última quarta-feira (31).

– É uma classificação muito importante, que nos dá muita moral e confiança. O Botafogo é uma equipe bem qualificada, que vem fazendo uma grande temporada, isso valoriza ainda mais nossa classificação. Sabíamos da dificuldade do confronto, mas lidamos bem com a partida de volta, que tínhamos a vantagem, e fomos muito bem nos pênaltis – analisou Cuello.

Agora, o Athletico tem duas partidas seguidas na Arena da Baixada onde encara o próprio Botafogo, além do Libertad, pelo Campeonato Brasileiro e Libertadores, respectivamente. Diante deste cenário, para o camisa 28 reforçou o elemento da ‘injeção de ânimo’ proveniente do último confronto eliminatório.

>Não perca nenhum lance do Furacão na Liberta. Assine o Star+ por apenas R$40,90 por mês e torça onde quiser!

– Temos que aproveitar esse momento de confiança pra buscar uma sequência de bons resultados. Temos partidas difíceis pela frente, tanto pelo Brasileiro quanto pela Libertadores, então temos que trabalhar forte e seguir evoluindo pra buscar nossos objetivos nesse ano – concluiu o avante.

Hampshire quick led an accomplished bowling display from England on day one in Cape Town

ECB Reporters Network03-Feb-2025

England U19s 1 for 0 (Vaughan 1*) vs South Africa U19s 224 all out (James 84, Hansen 63, Jack 3-42)Eddie Jack claimed three wickets as England Men U19s bowled out South Africa Men U19s for 224 on the opening day of the second Youth Test in Cape Town.Jack included the dismissal of top-scorer Paul James (84) in his figures of 3 for 42, while seamers Alexander Wade and Harry Moore shared the load with two wickets apiece.The Young Lions, who fell just one wicket short of victory in the first Youth Test last week, were one without loss at the close.Jack claimed the opening wicket of the day when Jorich van Schalkwyk edged behind to wicketkeeper Thomas Rew who took four catches.After the Young Proteas were reduced to 74 for 5 skipper Bennie Hansen and James shared a 73-run partnership.Young Lions captain Archie Vaughan broke the stand when Hansen looped a catch to Rew from an attempted reverse sweep, before Jack removed James and last man Nathan Rossouw in the same over to end the innings.

Allrounders Aaron Hardie and Matt Short have also been named alongside Alex Carey

Andrew McGlashan12-Jan-2025 • Updated on 13-Jan-2025Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood have been named in Australia’s squad for the Champions Trophy after been ruled out of the upcoming Test tour of Sri Lanka.Cummins, who will captain the team, is on paternity leave for the birth of his second child, but it was also revealed last week that he was to undergo scans on a troublesome ankle he carried through the India Test series. George Bailey, the chair of selectors, said they were awaiting the outcome of the scans but with the ability to freely amend the squad for the next four weeks there was no imminent rush to make a final call.Related

Cummins 'heavily unlikely' for Champions Trophy, Smith or Head to lead Australia

Mitchell Marsh out of Champions Trophy with back injury

Extra ODI added to Australia's tour of Sri Lanka

Edwards, Sutherland, Hardie in Australia A squad for Sydney four-dayer against England Lions

Abbott: Didn't take ODI decision out of selectors' hands

“I want to give him a little bit of space at the back end of the Border-Gavaskar; obviously baby pending,” Bailey said. “We’ll work through that with Pat and obviously the selection panel and the medical team…but I know he’s very keen.”Hazlewood, meanwhile, hadn’t quite recovered in time from the calf injury that ended his series but should be able to take his place in the one-day side.Allrounders Aaron Hardie and Matthew Short, the latter who scored a 54-ball 109 for Adelaide Strikers two days ago, have also been included in the 15-player squad.Hardie is not currently bowling for Perth Scorchers in the BBL due to injury while Josh Inglis is also recovering from a calf strain he picked up while sub fielding during the Test series.Nathan Ellis has tipped out the likes of Sean Abbott and Xavier Bartlett to be the fourth pace bowler behind the big three.”This is a balanced and experienced squad with the core having been involved in the previous one-day World Cup, the West Indies series, last year’s successful tour of the UK and the more recent Pakistan home series,” Bailey said. “It offers a variety of options for touring management depending on opposition and the conditions that may present in Pakistan.”Alex Carey also finds a spot after making a successful return to the ODI side against England last year with scores of 74 and 77 not out having previously lost his place after one game of the 2023 World Cup. He could play as a specialist batter, as he did once in the England series, but also provides wicketkeeping back-up for Inglis.Adam Zampa is the one frontline spinner but will be supported by Short and Glenn Maxwell.Among younger players who featured against Pakistan earlier in the series, where Australia lost 2-1, Jake Fraser-McGurk has not made the cut amid an extended lean run which has included a top score of 26 in eight innings for Melbourne Renegades. Cooper Connolly, who was selected for the Sri Lanka Test tour, also can’t find a space.Australia will play a one-off ODI against Sri Lanka on February 13 before heading to Pakistan and discussions remain ongoing as to whether there will be another warm-up game. They are grouped with England (February 22), South Africa (February 25) and Afghanistan (February 28).The first semi-final will take place in Dubai on March 4 with the second in Lahore on March 5 following confirmation of the hybrid model due to India not traveling to Pakistan. The final will be on March 9, in either Dubai or Lahore depending on whether India qualify.Australia squad for Champions TrophyPat Cummins (capt), Alex Carey, Nathan Ellis, Aaron Hardie, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Marnus Labuschagne, Mitchell Marsh, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Steven Smith, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca looked as if he had gone public with his desire to sign a new centre-back this summer after Levi Colwill’s injury, amid their ongoing attempts to bring in both Man United winger Alejandro Garnacho and RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons.

Colwill will miss the majority of 2025/2026 after tearing his ACL, leaving Maresca with precious few options for his backline, and the Italian stated last week that the club need more names in that area.

However, in his press conference prior to Chelsea’s clash with West Ham at the London Stadium, Maresca has now gone back on that message, claiming it was lost in translation, and they’re looking at finding an internal solution.

Benoit Badiashile is still injured and will remain out until September, but it is worth noting that members of the Chelsea coaching staff are backing him as a reliable option behind-the-scenes.

Renato Veiga has just sealed a £26 million move to Villarreal, so he can no longer be called upon, while Axel Disasi is believed to be attracting serious interest from Bournemouth.

According to journalist Sebastian Staszewski, they were considering a defensive rising star earlier in the window, but talks have hit a “standstill”.

Chelsea pause talks for Motor Lublin defender Bright Ede

As per the reporter, Chelsea have “paused talks” for Motor Lublin defender Bright Ede, after previously being interested, and this has handed Man United a chance to swoop in and get the teenager instead.

The £7 million defender would come in among BlueCo’s pool of promising young talents, but if Chelsea were to sign a centre-back before the deadline, they arguably need a more proven asset, despite lots of praise for Ede from certain sectors.

Bournemouth's renovation of the Vitality Stadium will start before the end of the 2025/26 season, with plans to to almost double their home ground's capacity waiting for final planning permission. The proposed work will see a complete renovation of the South Stand and the filling in of all four corners of the stadium, adding 9,000 extra seats to the 11,379 capacity venue.

• Renovation of Vitality Stadium to start by Spring 2026

  While the club has yet to announce the exact date the proposed work will start, reports Bournemouth hope to commence renovations between January and March 2026. If planning permission is granted, the Cherries will start the redevelopment by installing a new perimeter fence, turnstiles, ticket office and a 'small-scale extension' to the West Stand, as well as internal refurbishment of the East and West Stands. The club hopes to complete that work by March 2026.

Advertisement

• Getty Images Sport
  

  Major work on Bournemouth's Vitality Stadium to run beyond Summer of 2027

  Attention will then turn to the construction of a new South Stand, and filling the four corners of the ground. That work is scheduled to start in August 2026. The final phase of the project will see the expansion of the North and East stands. The club hopes that will start in the summer of 2027.

• Bournemouth lag behind in matchday revenue

  Bournemouth have punched above their weight since their first season in the top tier back in 2015. Having spent nine of the last ten seasons in the Premier League, the club is now in a position to invest in their infrastructure. The Vitality Stadium is the lowest capacity venue in the league by some distance, limiting Bournemouth's ability to generate matchday revenue. In the 2023/24 season, the Cherries generated £6.5m from their stadium. Only relegated minnows Luton Town (£6.2m) garnered less from their gate receipts. The average matchday revenue for Premier League clubs was £45m.

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

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

• Getty Images Sport
  

  Bournemouth wait on final word on planning permission

  The club is working with Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council on the planning and consultation phase. They will hope for a speedy resolution, so they can start to solidify their position as a perennial Premier League fixture with a ground worthy of the top tier. 

Liverpool’s 2025/26 campaign is upon us. This weekend, Arne Slot will lead his troops out for the first time this term, looking to claim the Community Shield against Crystal Palace, who won the FA Cup in May.

The curtain-raiser is little more than a prelude to the campaign, but for the Premier League champions, it’s an opportunity to showcase the new quality added to the ranks, and to set the tone for the years ahead.

The likes of Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike will be gunning for starts up top, while full-backs Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong will hope to kick off a long and fruitful partnership on the flanks. Giorgi Mamardashvili may make his debut following Alisson Becker’s departure from pre-season due to a personal issue. The Brazilian has since returned to training.

One player who will not feature for the Reds is Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, who desperately wants to sign for the Merseysiders and has already been the subject of a rejected £110m bid.

But will sporting director Richard Hughes manage to pull it off?

The latest on Alexander Isak to Liverpool

Newcastle’s struggle to sign a new centre-forward has inhibited Liverpool in their quest for “the best striker in the Premier League”, as Isak has been described by Sky Sports’ Jamie Carragher.

Isak’s position at Newcastle appears untenable, for he was not included in the club’s recent barbecue, a get-together involving the squad, staff and family members, and he has also been ordered to train alone.

With the Magpies actively searching for a new number nine, it feels like Isak will be granted the chance to move at some stage this summer, albeit that is hardly a certainty. For their part, Liverpool are said to be readying a fresh approach, according to reports.

Should Liverpool fail to capture their quarry, FSG have earmarked several alternatives, with one in particular appearing a curious choice.

Liverpool open talks for Isak alternative

According to Empire of the Kop, Liverpool are interested in signing Yoane Wissa from Brentford this summer, should they fail to prise Isak away from St. James’ Park. It’s understood that initial enquiries have been made.

Wissa, 28, was one of the Premier League’s most prolific forwards last season and is valued at £50m. Suitors will hope to pay less. Newcastle have led the race over recent weeks, but Tottenham Hotspur and Al-Nassr have also expressed a desire to snap him up.

The DR Congo international has now returned to training after previously going on strike, though he still targets a move away from the Gtech Community Stadium.

That said, if Liverpool were to bump up the intensity of their intrigue, there’s perhaps a sense that Hughes might inadvertently add to the Magpies’ woes, for Wissa would surely be enticed by a one-way trip to Anfield.

Why Liverpool are interested in Yoane Wissa

Wissa might not be the flashiest name on the market, but he’s a clinical goalscorer and he’s proven in the Premier League. Last season, he scored 20 goals across all competitions, including 19 in the Premier League.

Hailed by Sky Sports’ Mark McAdam for his “absolutely sensational” finishing, Wissa might not have Isak’s dynamism or staggering technical ability, but he’s rather good at what he does, and would provide the perfect counterpoint to Ekitike.

Last season, Ekitike ranked among the top 10% of strikers across Europe’s top five leagues for assists, the top 6% for shot-creating actions, and the top 4% for progressive carries and successful take-ons per 90, as per FBref.

He does, however, mirror Isak’s ready-made clinical nature, and that’s something that could prove important given that Ekitike is not the finished product.

There’s a partnership there, for sure. Wissa and Ekitike might not be stylistically similar as number nines – and that bodes well for Liverpool’s long-term fluency – but the Bees star could become the Reds’ next version of the former Eintracht Frankfurt man all the same.

That’s because Newcastle have a vested interest in the £25k-per-week talent, with their interest longer-standing too (the Tyneside outfit first bid for Ekitike in 2022, before ultimately signing Isak).

For Liverpool to steal ahead and pile more misery onto the Carabao Cup champions would be a cruel blow to those of a Toon persuasion, but the argument for signing Wissa is strong.

Forking out another British-record fee on Isak is understandable, but that doesn’t mean Liverpool should spend a ridiculous amount on an alternative just to tick a box. In Wissa, an astute purchase could be made, and one which would enhance and progress the team all the same.

With Darwin Nunez on the cusp of completing a permanent transfer to Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League, this would be a necessary move to make, and one which would see Wissa establish himself as Liverpool’s next version of Ekitike.

Wissa might not have Isak’s show-stopping name, but there’s no question that the DR Congo star boasts a wealth of Premier League experience and would serve as a welcome counterpoint to the expansive Ekitike.

Liverpool have already stolen one centre-forward target from Newcastle this summer, and they could do the same again by completing a shrewd move for Wissa, should a deal for Isak fall through.

He's like Gerrard: Liverpool preparing formal offer for £120k-p/w "wizard"

Liverpool are looking to close several more transfer deals this summer.

By
Angus Sinclair

Aug 8, 2025

Alisha Lehmann has paid an emotional tribute to Matt Beard following the tragic news of the former Liverpool and West Ham manager’s death. Lehmann worked with Beard during her time with the Hammers, which started her career in the WSL and helped to launch her towards stardom, with the Swiss forward saluting “the first person that believed in me”.

Lehmann's time in English football

Lehmann moved to England in 2018. She spent time with West Ham, Everton and Aston Villa before taking on a new challenge with Juventus in 2024 – winning the Serie A title during her only season with the Turin-based giants.

AdvertisementGettyBeard spotted Lehmann's potential

Lehmann is now on the books of Como Women, but continues to keep a close eye on WSL matters and will never forget those that helped to provide a professional springboard. Beard will always hold a special place in her heart after spotting potential that others overlooked.

Beard passed away at age of 47

It was announced on September 20 that Beard had passed away suddenly at the age of 47. Tributes have flooded in from around the football world, with Lehmann adding her voice and stories to those paying respect to a popular figure in the English game.

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

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

Lehmann's emotional tribute to Beard

Lehmann said in a post on Instagram: “I can’t find the right words how much this hurt me. Matt Beard was the first person that believed in me and was always there for me my whole career. I am who I am as a player, as a person cause of him.

“My heart is hurting and those news are devastating. I remember the first time we met, I couldn’t speak English and we used Google Translate and we laughed. You brought me to England, you were the first coach in my life that saw my talent and made me strong. The memories we shared on and off the pitch I will never forget.

“He was the one that teached me all my skills and took care of me whenever I needed it. I will never forget you Matt, you will always live with me in my heart. Thank you for everything. Prayers to your wife and kids. RIP.”

Instagram

Tottenham Hotspur have enjoyed huge success in the transfer window over recent seasons, with their work massively contributing to their Europa League triumph last campaign.

Brennan Johnson scored the winner in the final against Manchester United back in May, topping off what was a fine individual season for the Welsh international.

He netted 18 goals in his 51 appearances for the Lilywhites throughout 2024/25, with his £47.5m transfer from Nottingham Forest now somewhat of a bargain given his success in the side.

However, whilst boss Thomas Frank has already completed multiple shrewd pieces of business by landing Mohammed Kudus, Joao Palhinha and Mathys Tel – the new boss undoubtedly wants further additions to bolster his squad.

Numerous players have been touted with moves to North London throughout the ongoing transfer window, but one saga has been a huge talking point in recent days.

Spurs’ failed saga to land Eberechi Eze this summer

Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze has been a huge target for Spurs over the last couple of months, with constant talks being held between the two sides over a £60m transfer.

At one stage, it appeared as though a deal would be completed without any fuss, even leading to the player himself being keen on a move to join Frank’s side for the 2025/26 campaign and beyond.

However, after talks which lasted around a fortnight, no deal was completed – subsequently handing North London rivals Arsenal an open-goal opportunity to land the 27-year-old’s signature.

Mikel Arteta’s men gratefully accepted, strolling into negotiations, and reaching a total agreement with the player and the Eagles – leading to a £60m up-front transfer fee being accepted.

It’s been reported by numerous sources that Eze is expected to complete his medical and be announced as an Arsenal player in the coming days – rubbing salt into the wounds of all associated with the Lilywhites.

Other targets will now have to be drawn up to avoid a complete disaster this summer, but the club do already have a hugely talented player on the books – one who’s valued more than Eze at present.

The Spurs player who’s worth more than Eze

As previously mentioned, Spurs have conducted some excellent business over the last few seasons – with not all of the work completed by the hierarchy negative in recent times.

Alongside Johnson, talents such as Pape Sarr have also showcased that they’ve been worthwhile investments, massively exceeding the expectations placed upon him after his move to North London.

The Senegalese star joined the Lilywhites from French side Metz back in the summer of 2022 after spending an additional year on loan at the side he started his professional career with.

However, in the last couple of years, he’s become an influential part of the first-team, racking up over 100 appearances for the Lilywhites – scoring nine times, including in the season opener against Burnley.

He’s not the only first-team member who’s endured somewhat of a rise in recent months, with Archie Gray another player on the books who possesses a whole heap of potential.

Eyebrows were raised last summer when owner Daniel Levy forked out £40m for the 19-year-old’s signature – especially after he had just ended his only previous year as a professional with Leeds United the season prior.

Given his tender age, he found consistent minutes hard to come by, racking up 46 appearances across all competitions – many of which were in unfamiliar roles such as right-back and central defence.

Archie Gray’s stats for Spurs in 2024/25

Statistics (per 90)

Tally

Games played

46

Minutes played

3243

Pass accuracy

89%

Dribbles completed

58%

Tackles won

50%

Aerials won

50%

Interceptions made

1.1

Recoveries made

3.6

Stats via FotMob

However, Gray, who’s been labelled “unbelievable” by teammate Kevin Danso, was rewarded with a start in his natural central midfield position against Burnley last week, highlighting the trust new boss Frank has in the youngster.

Whilst he’s been limited as to how much he can showcase his talents in recent months, he’s still seen his market value soar since his arrival, now being valued at £61.5m by FootballTransfers.

Such a figure is higher than that of Eze, with the Palace star expected to cost £60m before his subsequent transfer to join Frank’s side fell apart in recent days.

It’s easy for the fanbase to lose faith in the ownership, understandably so, given the recent failure to land new talent and back the new manager.

However, it’s evident that the deals they have completed in recent years have been a success, with faith needed to put in the owner to find another top talent before the window slams shut.

Related Better signing than Eze: Spurs advancing talks for "incredible" £60m star

Tottenham Hotspur appear to be making a move to land a top-level star instead of Eberechi Eze.

Posts ByEthan Lamb Aug 22, 2025

تحدث كبير كتاب كرة القدم في شبكة “بي بي سي” العالمية عن مستوى نجم فريق ليفربول، محمد صلاح، رفقة كتيبة آرني سلوت في الموسم الحالي، 2025/26.

ويعيش ليفربول فترة صعبة بعدما تعرض الفريق لثلاث هزائم متتالية، بواقع اثنتين في الدوري الإنجليزي أمام كريستال بالاس وتشيلسي، وواحدة في دوري أبطال أوروبا ضد جالطة سراي.

ويتعرض محمد صلاح للكثير من الانتقادات في الفترة الحالية، كونه لم يقدم الأداء المتوقع منه، منذ بداية الموسم في أغسطس الماضي وحتى الآن.

وسُئل كبير كتاب كرة القدم في شبكة “بي بي سي” العالمية، فيل ماكنولتي، عن محمد صلاح ومستواه الحالي وما إذا كان لاعباً لا يُستغنى عنه.

ورد: “لقد شاهدت جميع مباريات ليفربول هذا الموسم، باستثناء مباراة كأس كاراباو ضد ساوثهامبتون، وعلى الرغم من جميع الانتصارات التي حققوها في البداية، لم يبدو الفريق مرضيًا منذ اليوم الأول”.

اقرأ أيضًا.. ديلي ميل: خصوم ليفربول فقدوا خشيتهم لـ محمد صلاح.. و”عناد” سلوت قد يضاعف مشكلته

وأضاف: “أعتقد أن ضم هذا العدد الكبير من اللاعبين يعني أن الأمر يستغرق وقتًا من أجل التأقلم، مهما كانت جودتهم، لكن التوازن لا يبدو مناسبًا مع تواجد فلوريان فيرتز خلف المهاجمين”.

وواصل: “بدا ليفربول أكثر عرضة للخطر، كما لم يساعده أداء إبراهيما كوناتي الضعيف ووجود ظهيرين جديدين ذوي نزعة هجومية قوية، وهما جيريمي فريمبونج وميلوس كيركيز”.

واسترسل: “هل محمد صلاح لا يُستغنى عنه؟ حسنًا، قليل من اللاعبين لا يمكن الاستغناء عنهم في مرحلة ما من مسيرتهم المهنية، ولا شك أنه لم يكن على طبيعته هذا الموسم، لا تنسوا أيضًا أنه في الثالثة والثلاثين من عمره، ولكن نادرًا ما يتراجع مستوى اللاعبين العالميين فجأة، كما أنني لن أعرض فكرة إنه سيقدم مساهمة كبيرة لـ ليفربول مرة أخرى هذا الموسم”.

واسترسل: “هل سيقرر سلوت إخراجه من التشكيل أحيانًا؟ نعم، أتصور ذلك، كما فعل أمام جالطة سراي الأسبوع الماضي”.

وفيما إذا كانت صفقة فلوريان فيرتز فاشلة، قال: “من المبكر للغاية الحكم على ذلك، أدائه مخيب للآمال حتى الآن، لا شك في ذلك، لكنه يلعب في فريق يمر بمرحلة انتقالية مكلفة للغاية ولم يكن في أفضل حالاته على الإطلاق، على الرغم من تصدره الدوري الإنجليزي في الأسابيع الأولى”.

واختتم: “هو يعتاد على لاعبي ليفربول وهم يعتادون عليه، من الخطأ دائمًا إصدار أحكام متسرعة كهذه، وأعتقد أن فيرتز – سواءً كان مقابل 116 مليون جنيه إسترليني أم لا – يستحق وقتًا أطول بكثير قبل إصدار أي حكم، وخاصة الحكم بأنه فاشل، لا يزال الوقت مبكرًا جدًا”.