Watch Middlesbrough vs Wrexham for free as the Red Dragons travel to the Riverside in the first round of the Carabao Cup, with FourFourTwo bringing you all the details on live streams and TV channels, wherever you are in the world.

Both teams' sole aim for the season will be promotion to the Premier League, so this cup clash should provide a useful barometer of how they stack up against another side likely to challenge towards the top of the Championship.

While the focus will be on their respective league openers next weekend, this Friday-night clash presents both Middlesbrough and Wrexham with a great chance to hit the ground running.

Read on as FourFourTwo brings you all the information you need to watch Middlesbrough vs Wrexham online, on TV, and from anywhere.

Can I watch Middlesbrough vs Wrexham for free?

Yes! In the UK, free-to-air broadcaster ITV is showing at least one game per round in this season's Carabao Cup - and Middlesbrough vs Wrexham is their chosen first-round match.

You can watch live on ITV1 or on the ITVX free streaming service at no cost (pre-registration is required). Kick-off is at 8pm BST.

Not in the UK? Use NordVPN to unlock your ITVX stream from anywhere in the world.

Watch Middlesbrough vs Wrexham from anywhere

Away from home right now? You don't have to miss Middlesbrough vs Wrexham. The solution to your geo-restriction nightmares is a Virtual Private Network (VPN), a piece of software that can set your devices to appear to be in any country in the world.

FourFourTwo’s tech-obsessed office-mates over at Tom's Guide know everything there is to know about VPNs, and they rate NordVPN as the best VPN you can buy.

How to watch Middlesbrough vs Wrexham in the UK

Middlesbrough vs Wrexham is being shown live on Sky Sports in the UK, as well as on ITV.

The clash at the Riverside is live on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football.

Fans in the UK can watch every single Carabao Cup game on Sky Sports during the 2026/27 season, so you won't miss a minute. Plans start from £35 a month, or £22 a month for new Sky TV customers.

Abroad? Use NordVPN to access your usual stream.

How to watch Middlesbrough vs Wrexham in the US

Middlesbrough vs Wrexham is available to watch on Paramount+ in the US, with kick-off at 3pm ET.

Paramount+ plans start at $8.99 a month and include live coverage of select Carabao Cup and EFL matches, plus every single Champions League game and much more.

Outside of the US? Watch Middlesbrough vs Wrexham on Paramount+ with NordVPN.

How to watch Middlesbrough vs Wrexham in Australia

Fans in Australia can watch every Carabao Cup match live on beIN SPORTS this season, including Middlesbrough vs Wrexham.

The game kicks-off at 5am AEST (Sat) and will be live on beIN SPORTS 3, as well as on the beIN Sports Connect streaming platform.

Plans start from $15.99 a month or $159.99 a year, and you can also take advantage of a one-week free trial.

Away from Australia? Get NordVPN to access your usual beIN SPORTS stream.

Middlesbrough vs Wrexham: Preview

Middlesbrough fans will hope 2026/27 proves a cathartic season after experiencing heartbreak several times in the closing weeks of last term.

Kim Hellberg's side fell short of automatic promotion despite sitting in the top two of the Championship for 35 of the 46 matchdays, before losing in the play-off semi-finals to Southampton - only to receive a lifeline after their opponents were kicked out over the 'Spygate' saga. Boro supporters who thought that was a sign it would be their year then saw their dreams crushed in brutal fashion at Wembley, as Oli McBurnie's 95th-minute winner snatched promotion for Hull City in the play-off final.

Middlesbrough have since lost talismanic midfielder Hayden Hackney to Everton but they have strengthened elsewhere, most notably with the signing of Tottenham Hotspur striker Will Lankshear for an initial £10m that could rise to £20m with add-ons. The 21-year-old is highly-rated and scored 12 goals in all competitions for Oxford United last season, despite their relegation from the Championship.

Lankshear will be itching to open his account for his new club as Boro aim to lay down a marker ahead of their league opener at home to Lincoln City next Saturday.

SEE ALSO Carabao Cup TV Guide

Facing Middlesbrough may conjour thoughts of 'What if?' for Wrexham, whose 2-2 draw with Boro in North Wales on the final day of last season saw them miss out on a play-off place (they would have finished sixth, ahead of Hull, if they'd won).

That being said, it was a strong first campaign back in the second tier for Phil Parkinson's men, who have since embarked on a globe-trotting pre-season tour which included wins over Manchester United in Helsinki and Leeds United in Tampa, Florida.

Wrexham's final friendly in the US was only last Sunday, against Sunderland, so it will be a quick turnaround for this Carabao Cup clash, especially with a squad that is largely unchanged from 2025/26 - despite boasting the Hollywood millions of co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.

Parkinson is still looking to strengthen so his starting XI could look very different by the end of the transfer window, but this is a chance for his existing players to cement their place for the trip to Welsh counterparts Cardiff City in the opening Championship game of the season on August 17.

FourFourTwo's prediction

Middlesbrough 2-1 Wrexham

Boro might just have the edge here, with Lankshear a good bet to get on the scoresheet.

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Reports indicate that last season's Premier League runners-up have identified Lille youngster Ayyoub Bouaddi as the Spaniard's long-term successor at the Etihad Stadium.

With Rodri nearing a return to LaLiga with Barcelona, Manchester City’s recruitment team have moved swiftly to ensure their engine room suffers no lasting void.

According to reports from The Athletic and French publication L'Equipe, City have begun discussions to secure Bouaddi's signature.

One in, one out at the Etihad Stadium - but are Bouaddi and Rodri like-for-like?

At just 18 years old, 'The Boy's A Bit Special' alumnus Bouaddi has established himself as one of the more complete deep-lying playmakers in European football.

Having broken into Lille’s senior setup at the age of 16, the Moroccan international has drawn positive reviews for his press-resistance and passing range from the base of midfield.

His standout performances in Ligue 1 and the UEFA Champions League have led Manchester City to position themselves at the front of the queue.

Man City’s recruitment structure are said to view Bouaddi as a talented potential successor to Rodri. Replacing a Ballon d'Or and World Cup winner like Rodri is no easy task, but City’s proactive manoeuvre suggests they're in a position to bring a similar calibre of player to the Etihad Stadium.

Rather than seeking a short-term, potentially costly stopgap, the club are choosing to invest heavily in a long-term solution that can grow with the new iteration of this Man City team in the post-Guardiola era.

While Rodri’s anticipated departure to Catalonia marks the end of a trophy-laden chapter in Manchester, securing Bouaddi ensures the club remain well-prepared for the future. If Rodri's £60 million transfer reaches its expected conclusion, it would greenlight Bouaddi's move, leaving the Etihad faithful to witness the arrival of Europe's next top-level midfield anchor.

Bruno Guimaraes is closing in on a £75 million move to Arsenal, ending a transfer saga that has punctuated the summer window.

However, the Brazilian midfielder’s departure from Tyneside was set in motion long before formal negotiations between the two clubs took place.

FourFourTwo understand Guimaraes informed Newcastle as early as January that he would like to leave the club in the summer.

Bruno Guimaraes to complete Arsenal move

While external speculation suggested Arsenal’s interest only gathered momentum deep into the summer, Guimaraes' exit roadmap began at the start of the year.

Despite making his intentions clear to the Newcastle hierarchy in January, the 28-year-old remained committed on the pitch, captaining the team and performing with trademark intensity throughout the remainder of the 2025/26 campaign.

Newcastle officials were initially hopeful of convincing their captain to sign a new contract. However, with the club unable to offer European football for the upcoming season, Guimaraes viewed an exit as his preference.

It is widely reported the Brazilian deems his Gunners switch as the final opportunity to consistently compete for domestic and European trophies.

When incoming manager Matthias Jaissle met with Guimaraes at Newcastle's pre-season camp in La Manga, he respectfully reiterated his desire. The conversation was reportedly cordial, and Newcastle subsequently accepted Arsenal's £75m package.

Since the turn of the year it had become apparent in Newcastle circles that marquee members of Eddie Howe's squad had one eye on the exit door at St. James' Park.

The team were struggling in the league and looked unlikely to clinch European football, and so conversations between players and their agents began taking place. Guimaraes was one of a number who privately communicated their wish to be granted a move.

For Arsenal, signing Guimaraes provides Mikel Arteta with a battle-tested midfielder capable of adding steel and swagger to their engine room.

His press-resistant traits, ball progression, tenacity, and tactical intelligence will alleviate the burden carried by Declan Rice over recent campaigns.

Upon the completion of medical tests, Guimaraes will complete his long-awaited switch to the capital.

Arsenal and Chelsea doing business with one another used to be on just one condition: “only if we have to”.

The London rivals didn't actually negotiate a deal until 2006, and the highly contentious cross-capital switch of Ashley Cole from north to west – with William Gallas thrown into the deal for good measure.

Even in 2015, there was an extreme reluctance from Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho to accept Arsenal's move for Petr Cech – but it had been promised by owner Roman Abramovich.

Times have changed: Arsenal and Chelsea could do business yet again this summer

By 2018, the Gunners were struggling to qualify for the Champions League and Chelsea were faring a lot better – meaning that Olivier Giroud left N5 for SW6 with a fraction of the bad blood that came with Cesc Fabregas' move, via Barcelona, of course.

David Luiz in the opposite direction wasn't seen as strengthening a rival either, followed by Willian on a free from the Blues to the Gunners – while in recent seasons, it's been Chelsea rebuilding and Arsenal taking their used parts, with manager Mikel Arteta making a signing in every year of BlueCo's ownership.

Often it makes sense for Arsenal to shop in West London: Chelsea have a recent history of stockpiling talent, developing them in the Premier League and are willing to listen to offers for players of a certain level that would be way more expensive elsewhere.

That was certainly the case for Kai Havertz, a player who was nowhere near his prime but had already scored in a Champions League final and who certainly strengthened Arsenal in a problem position – and Noni Madueke, who had shown plenty of promise and was available for a good price and good wages, especially when compared to others on the market at the time.

Kepa Arrizabalaga, Jorginho and Raheem Sterling, meanwhile, were market opportunities – and while it's debatable how successful each has been, they did all at least provide experience and cover for very little expense.

Simply put, Arsenal would have been quoted at least £80 million for a starting target man from most clubs, but got Havertz for around £60m: Madueke went for a similar fee to Anthony Elanga, and Chelsea spent nine figures replacing Jorginho with Enzo Fernandez.

So given that, yet again, Chelsea are looking at trimming a 41-man squad, it makes sense for Arsenal to do their rivals another favour.

There are contenders – but Josh Acheampong could be Arsenal's best bet to buy from Chelsea

This is Chelsea, and only a handful of their squad – not even including all their new signings, hilariously – are untouchable.

Arsenal need a left-winger (as is well broadcast) and cover on the right side of defence, while they would likely be open to opportunities across the pitch: it wouldn't exactly be a shock for Arteta to rekindle a desire to revive Mykhailo Mudryk's career, there was historic interest in Jamie Gittens, while Nicolas Jackson feels like a very Arsenal signing all over.

Really though, the opportunities lie at the back, following new manager Xabi Alonso's comments that his collection of nine centre-backs needs reducing to “four or five”.

In terms of those who can replace either William Saliba or Jurrien Timber, Malo Gusto is valued at £75m amid interest from Manchester City; Wesley Fofana has had his injury problems; Trevoh Chalobah looks to be leaving for Como; and either the jury is still out or we haven't seen enough of Tosin Adarabioyo, Mamadou Sarr and Aaron Anselmino; Reece James, meanwhile, is as unsellable as you get.

Which leaves Josh Acheampong, who is still just 20, able to cover both right-back and centre-back, and would fit the bill technically and tactically of what Arteta demands from a player in that area of the pitch.

The BBC noted in June that the defender really is viewed within the “untouchable” bracket at the club, and that Arsenal were among a throng of English clubs interested in the England youth international – but with the transfer window approaching the endgame, the move makes a lot of sense for all involved.

Chelsea need to offload before the window ends, having spent big again, and though pure profit sales perhaps aren't as golden as they once were for the Blues, they could collect a good fee for a player who doesn't have a clear future – and who reportedly wants to leave the club to develop elsewhere.

Arsenal, meanwhile, have a very clear hierarchy with Timber and Saliba as the established first-choice options in their respective positions, but it makes sense to bring in someone who could potentially challenge either within three years, while adding quality in depth now.

FourFourTwo understands that rather like Gusto, Tino Livramento is valued at around £75m, too: so could spending slightly less on Acheampong could be looked back upon as sensible business in five years' time with inflation?

Manchester United are chasing yet another cost-effective signing.

The Red Devils have enjoyed a frugal summer, completing the likes of Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos while shunning the opportunity to pay bigger bucks for Matheus Fernandes – and that trend could well continue.

Manager Michael Carrick is hoping to add a little more depth to his squad this month, as Manchester United return to the Champions League and look to compete on four fronts once more.

Manchester United to move for Jhon Lucumi - in another cut-price transfer

According to Corriere di Bologna in Italy via Sport Witness, United are weighing up a move for £21.7 million defender Jhon Lucumi.

Chelsea are also in the race for the Colombian, who starred at the World Cup, while Juventus have an agreement in place with the 28-year-old but haven't met Bologna's modest demands.

United, meanwhile, would reportedly be happy to simply pay the asking price for the player, while Bournemouth, Sunderland and Nottingham Forest have all been credited with interest this summer, too, with the report describing Lucumi's exit as “inevitable”.

With Bournemouth having tied up a deal for Antonio Silva and Forest still chasing Ousmane Diomande, however, United have a clear run and can offer Champions League football – something Chelsea can't – though they, too, have other targets.

Giorgio Scalvini has been linked with a move in recent days, with the fellow Serie A stopper capable of stepping into midfield, which may interest Michael Carrick.

FourFourTwo understand that United have also been credited with an interest in fellow Bologna man, Jonathan Rowe, with the Red Devils exploring moves to improve their frontline as well as their defence.

With the BBC confirming that Tielemans cost just £35m and Santos £48m, United have spent just £83m in the transfer market since returning to the top table of European football – but will no doubt have to spend more to improve their squad.

Moves for Lewis Hall and Ismaila Sarr have both been explored, with owners INEOS looking to operate within a tighter wage structure.

Lucumi's contract expires next year, forcing Bologna's hand into a sale before they lose him for nothing.

The Colombian is worth €22m, according to Transfermarkt. Manchester United kickstart their season against Hull City.

Preston North End and Huddersfield Town will kick off in the Carabao Cup First Round on Saturday, August 8 in unique surroundings.

The two Football League clubs meet at Everton’s former ground, Goodison Park, rather than Deepdale.

The venue shift stems from pitch improvement work currently taking place at Preston's home stadium of Deepdale.

Preston North End vs Huddersfield Town at Goodison Park explained

Following a summer renovation, the playing surface at Preston remains unprepared for competitive fixtures, forcing the Lancashire club to source a temporary neutral venue to fulfil their cup commitment.

Preston released an official statement which read: "Preston North End have agreed a deal with Everton to host the club’s first round Carabao Cup tie against Huddersfield Town.

"The tie will be played at 3pm on Saturday 8th August at Goodison Park, the home of Everton Women, formerly the home of the Toffees men's first team up until their move ahead of the 25/26 season.

"The Lilywhites applied to the EFL for permission to play at the alternative venue due to the installation of the new hybrid pitch at Deepdale.

"The pitch will be complete in time for the club’s first home league game against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday 22nd August, but to ensure no issues after a significant £1.5m-plus investment, the decision was made to ask permission to play away from PR1 in round one."

Last summer, Everton moved to their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, leaving operational use of Goodison Park to their women's team.

The arrangement grants the 134-year-old stadium another evening of senior men's football before a planned community redevelopment phase gets underway.

Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven is to commit to a new deal in N17.

That's according to new reports that claim Tottenham boss Roberto De Zerbi has pulled off a masterstroke to convince his player to remain a part of the project, and turn down some of Europe's elite circling.

Van de Ven joined Spurs from Wolfsburg in 2023 and has been a hit – with TEAMtalk claiming that a five-year extension beckons for the 25-year-old.

Micky van de Ven commits his long-term future to Tottenham Hotspur

According to the report, De Zerbi has “transformed the mood” at the club and played a huge role in convincing Van de Ven to remain at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and complete a U-turn on his future.

The Lilywhites have endured 17th-place finishes in the past two seasons, with the Netherlands international one of the bright sparks in a patchy team – but injuries have blighted his career in English football thus far.

With Cristian Romero edging ever nearer to the exit door, Van de Ven has taken on more importance in the squad – and with Jan Paul van Hecke joining from Brighton & Hove Albion, De Zerbi may look to build on the Dutch partnership next season.

FourFourTwo understands, meanwhile, that Van de Ven will be leaned on post-Romero as one of the leaders in the Italian's squad, and may well be given the captaincy once his fellow centre-back departs.

The fastest player ever recorded in the Premier League, Van de Ven's Spurs career started brightly under Ange Postecoglou, as the club went on an unbeaten run at the start of the 2023/24 season until November, and a first international call-up came mere weeks into his journey with Spurs.

Postecoglou's first Premier League loss of the season, however, coincided with a game in which the defender was withdrawn with a hamstring injury – a theme of his time in the capital, with Spurs enduring several injury crises at the back during their relegation battles.

Tottenham have recruited the experience of Andrew Robertson at left-back, but the Scotsman turns 33 this season: and De Zerbi may well be leaning on the recovery pace of Van de Ven on that side of the pitch this season, with this extension coming as an important part of the Italian's project.

Earlier this summer, World Cup winner Pedro Porro committed his future to the North Londoners, too.

“Internally, Spurs view renewals as every bit as important as their summer signings, believing they have secured the core of the squad for years to come,” TEAMtalk says.

Van de Ven is worth €50m, according to Transfermarkt. Spurs travel to Brentford to begin their Premier League campaign.

Arsenal are set to pay Newcastle United more for Bruno Guimaraes than has been publically revealed.

FourFourTwo understands that a deal has been all but completed for the Brazilian, who will sign his contract with the Gunners to bring an end to one of the longest-running sagas of the summer.

But while Arsenal have managed to talk Newcastle down from the €100 million that they received for Sandro Tonali, the fee isn't quite as low as some outlets have claimed, according to those in Brazil.

Bruno Guimaraes to sign four-year Arsenal deal for around £80m

ESPN Brazil journalist Bruno Andrade has provided an update on Mikel Arteta's new signing, after previous stating that the deal was all but completed by weekend.

“There are a lot of details involved in this transfer and many bonuses that Newcastle are not planning to make public,” he explained.

“I’ve spoken to people who took part in the negotiations, and there is actually more money involved in the agreement between the clubs.”

The move apparently totals around £80 million in all, with FourFourTwo understanding that the two clubs have met somewhere in the middle of the £60m originally offered by the North Londoners for a player in the last year of his deal, and the £100m asking price.

Win bonuses for another Premier League title, and that elusive first-ever Champions League crown are almost certainly included, while there may be a figure to settle once Bruno has played a certain number of fixtures.

Intriguingly though, the champions seem to be looking to amortise their payment over four years rather than five, meaning that they could be looking at paying £20m a season to the Magpies rather than £16m.

According to Andrade, Bruno will sign a four-year deal with Arsenal, with the option of a fifth year on the table at the end of his contract – perhaps given his age.

The Rio-born schemer turns 29 in November, with Gunners sporting director Andrea Berta perhaps wishing to avoid another scenario like Bruno's compatriot, Gabriel Jesus.

Like Guimaraes, Jesus was signed in his prime, but after injuries took their toll on his body, Arsenal have struggled to move him on this summer – four years into his contract – and may have to stick with the star and his healthy salary for another year.

Guimaraes is worth €70m, according to Transfermarkt. It's champions vs champions on the opening day of the Premier League season, as Arsenal face Coventry City on Matchday 1.

Merely eight months ago, Mohamed Salah was benched for three consecutive matches by struggling Liverpool manager Arne Slot.

The response from the Egyptian was vicious: a scathing assessment of Slot's management, and veiled accusations towards the Reds' hierarchy, claiming the prerogative was to see him escorted for financial gain out of the back door.

Salah believed then, and later backed it up, that he had far more left to give to the game. With his move to Trabzonspor confirmed, those media antics should be called out exactly as they now appear – farcical, disappointing, and an insult to his most ardent fans.

Mohamed Salah has betrayed himself and his supporters with this decision, but the Egyptian can still achieve redemption

The truth is, Salah was right. Being benched was a statement, and the Liverpool hierarchy were almost certainly devising ways to send him packing, and free up their wage bill from his astronomical salary.

But his choice to move to the Super Lig, a competition that would do well to make it into the world's top ten highest-quality leagues, is no less than a stab in the back to those long-time supporters that adamantly defended him in light of that unfair treatment.

Salah ended the 2025/26 season with 29 goal contributions across the Premier League, Champions League, Africa Cup of Nations, and the World Cup.

He appeared in just 41 games for Liverpool, reaching 22 involvements in at least ten less matches played than any season barring 2023/24, another injury-ridden campaign for Salah, since the turn of the decade.

He enjoyed his most prolific Africa Cup of Nations campaign with Egypt, and spearheaded his nation to their first-ever World Cup win, and a victory in the knock-outs vs Australia, with seven contributions across both major tournaments.

But even his most optimistic supporters would surely concede that the decision to move to Turkey reeks of a man who has seemingly given up.

In a summer when similarly aged departing Premier League legends have opted to lower their salary demands to remain at the top level, including free agents Bernardo Silva and John Stones, both leaving the team that Salah rivalled for nearly a decade, this decision should disappoint followers of his extraordinary career deeply.

FourFourTwo understands that the Egyptian, now the highest paid player in Europe after tax, turned down lower salary offers from multiple clubs in the Serie A. Even Salah's most vocal critic, Jamie Carragher, acknowledged that Turkey is ‘a level too low' for the Liverpool icon, and confessed that he expected to see him back in Italy.

FourFourTwo also understands that two factors were particularly vital in Salah's decision: his wife, Magi, was enticed by Turkey as a location for their family to live in, and, naturally, the size of his enormous pay packet played a significant role, which links back to his financially strained upbringing in Nagrig.

The Salah family purchased a sea-view villa for $10 million in Bodrum, Turkey, over a year ago, which initially signalled that they believed the country was as an attractive place to reside.

The Egyptian escaped impoverished, isolated conditions from his rural farming village roots to become one of the greatest players in history, and, as a result, Salah views salary as a crucial measurement of his worth and success.

Despite these motivations, the collective disapproval of this decision globally is entirely rightful, and becomes far more intense when narrowed down solely to Egyptian supporters.

In that corner of the world, the response is fuelled by love – Salah is the greatest African footballer in history, and he, virtually single-handedly, put their nation on the sporting map.

But to see the Liverpool icon choose money over glory feels like both the disappointing conclusion to an era they hoped would never end, and a deep betrayal, because he appears to have pulled the plug prematurely.

For those fans, the ones who believed Salah's words when he told the press last December that he is still one of the finest players in the world, and watched him excel for the Egyptian national team throughout 2026, it is as sad as it is rage-inducing.

Luckily for the 34-year-old, he can indeed redeem himself. But he has placed a ludicrous burden on his shoulders, perhaps the most ever in his career, to pull off a feat he has been unable to get over the line since his debut.

That is to win the Africa Cup of Nations for Egypt, the most successful footballing nation in the competition's history, who have never won the tournament since Salah made his international debut.

Of course, Salah is far from responsible for that. In fact, the 34-year-old is the primary reason that Egypt did not fade into obscurity after the Port Said disaster stalled footballing development in the country, back in 2012.

The riot tragically caused the deaths of 74 people, and injuries to over 500 others, and shut down domestic football in Egypt for two years.

As a result, the national team was greatly affected, and Salah's talent was integral in them still making it to two AFCON finals in 2017 and 2021, and the third and fourth World Cups in Egypt's history.

To redeem himself in the eyes of those who rightfully feel that Salah has abandoned his competitive edge at an age far too early (the Egyptian, one of football's fittest athletes, confessed to Gary Neville in 2025 that he will still be playing at 40), winning Africa's greatest international prize is a must.

During his Premier League playing days, it became truth among fans that the tournament, if held mid-season, would inevitably lead Salah to suffer an underwhelming end to the campaign, due to the overwhelming demands of Africa Cup of Nations football.

This was clearly evident in 2021/22, when the now 34-year-old was, by a considerable stretch, the best player in the world from August to December, contributing to 21 goals in 15 straight Premier League games.

During the January tournament, he registered involvements in 75% of Egypt's goals en-route to the final vs Senegal, which Salah's side lost, and played four consecutive matches that went to 120 minutes.

Upon his return to Liverpool, Salah's output dropped, as the mental and physical load of carrying his domestic and international sides finally took its toll.

In Turkey? That problem no longer exists, not even at 34, with Salah being able to enjoy the lessened physical impacts of a far, far less competitive league than the English top-flight.

And with Egypt almost prevailing against eventual finalists Argentina at the 2026 World Cup, in which Salah delivered a stunning assist for his country's second of the game, which was controversially disallowed, expectations were already high ahead of the 2027 tournament.

The Liverpool legend will have two chances back-to-back, first in 2027, during the summer tournament hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, then again in 2028.

After that, the Africa Cup of Nations will be held every four years, meaning Salah's next opportunity would be in 2032. That is, for obvious reasons, entirely unfeasible.

In the Super Lig, Salah's clearest shot at Turkish football immortality is taking Trabzonspor to Europa League glory, if the team even makes it beyond the qualifying phases.

However, long-time fans of the Egyptian will likely not care even if he breaks Messi's 91-goal calendar year haul in Turkey. A better ending to his career could have came still on Merseyside, continuing to break Premier League records as a rotational player.

Perhaps most sickeningly of all for those supporters, this choice has effectively vindicated the most dishonest of narratives surrounding Salah, even emanating from within the Liverpool fanbase, that rushed to proclaim him as 'finished' after one sub-par season.

Salah still has plenty left in the tank, even if his transfer priorities appear to disagree with his, often warranted, arrogant antics.

He can cement his legacy in finely carved stone with the Africa Cup of Nations victory which has eluded him for his entire career, but Egyptians will no longer accept excuses if he doesn't find the means to prevail.

For a player who impossibly escaped the most arduous of childhood circumstances and became arguably the greatest player in Premier League history, it feels bizarrely apt that he'd place such extraordinary pressure on himself to deliver at the tail end of his journey.

And somehow, because it's always somehow with Mohamed Salah, isn't it obvious he will do it?

The final moments of last season’s Scottish Premiership title race will eventually be forgotten, lost to history amongst an ocean of Celtic trophies.

For just a few weeks, Scotland had the attention of the football world. The prospect of Celtic winning a 56th championship wasn’t the draw.

A midweek match between Motherwell and Celtic attracted viewers because Celtic had a challenger but what happened next was no more than a moment in time for most of the onlookers.

The cost of dominance

It’ll be remembered forever in Edinburgh, where a fully-kitted Heart of Midlothian arrived barely an hour after the final whistle wasn’t blown on their dream in Glasgow on the final day.

The Premiership is hardly unique among European leagues when it comes to being a closed shop at the top but it might be uniquely committed to the bit. Celtic and Rangers have now won 111 league titles between them.

As enjoyable as that must be for their fans, as thunderous as it makes the rivalry between the two, it will take more than a meaningful championship tilt from Rangers to give the Scottish game a shot in the arm.

Derek McInnes and Lawrence Shankland, the manager and captain who led Hearts to within a whisker of their fifth title, are now the manager and captain at Ibrox.

They’re both Rangers men but it’s still hard to shake the idea that the wayward half of the Old Firm were able to watch Hearts run Celtic close and then tuck into the Jam Tarts without chewing.

The wellbeing of Scottish football is an extremely complicated matter. A healthy game means not only a more diverse title picture but an improved national team, depth in the division and beneath, arses on seats, and an unbreakable bond between clubs and their communities.

Saying that the Premiership needs title challengers beyond the norm is far too simplistic – football contributes to life in Scotland regardless – but last season hinted at a thrilling alternative.

The importance of a competitive capital

Occasional pushes from outside Glasgow won’t cut it. In the last 10 seasons, the Old Firm have been the top two seven times. Rangers were still rebuilding when Aberdeen finished second in back-to-back seasons.

Last time a team from outside Glasgow cracked the top two, Celtic and Rangers went on to lock up first and second for the next seven years. Celtic won all but one of those titles but the catalyst for a more open Premiership is more than just a competitive city rival.

Aberdeen occasionally have a say but, in FourFourTwo’s opinion, Edinburgh is the key. Hearts almost showed what’s possible. Hibernian – also with four titles – have a similar level of potential.

Hearts and Hibs are never going to be as wealthy as the Old Firm clubs. They’re trying to be smarter and that’s the only option. Given the chaotic management of Celtic and Rangers in the last two years, the odds might not be as stacked against Edinburgh as they should be.

Their blueprints emerged not in Scotland but on the south coast of England, where two of the Premier League’s more progressive upstarts have been changing the landscape.

Black Knight, Bill Foley’s multi-club empire that includes AFC Bournemouth as well as Lorient and Moreirense, bought into Hibs in 2024. Foley’s involvement lasted under two years but offered an insight into the fresh outlook required to bring success to Easter Road.

The potency of an alternative strategy

Hearts now count Brighton & Hove Albion owner Tony Bloom among their shareholders. Bloom’s co-ownership means that Hearts are the only club in Scotland running Jamestown Analytics, Bloom’s data platform and the secret sauce in Como’s success under Cesc Fabregas.

Wouter Vrancken, the new Hearts boss, won’t have been selected without significant predictive data backing his appointment at Tynecastle.

Old Firm fans won’t take kindly to the idea of losing a piece of their slice but football is a dynamic sport and a social phenomenon that thrives on competition. Stasis is the enemy of growth and greater unpredictability would energise the whole shebang.

Glasgow’s grip isn’t going away but it can be, must be, loosened by more advanced thinking in Edinburgh. Maybe that comes from having football’s leading poker whizz in the boardroom. Maybe it requires a visionary manager at Hearts or Hibs.

Wherever it originates, Scottish football would be enriched from root to tip by capital clubs who are at least primed to capitalise on Celtic and Rangers in flux.

Edinburgh standing up to battle with the bigger boys could be the making of the modern Scottish game, boosting the entertainment baseline and filling those seats more readily.

Hearts fired a shot last season and narrowly missed the target. Every community project and every jaded fan questioning the worth of their dedication must be hoping beyond hope that it was the first mission of many.

Here we go, folks.

It's the Friday Football Quiz, and that means one thing: 20 questions, no time limit and a deep dive into football past and present, as we stretch the limits of your ball knowledge with the hardest quiz you'll find all week.

So let's test you on Mohamed Salah's new team-mates, the birthplaces of Ballon d'Or finalists, Luton Town and the Italian managerial merry-go-round. As ever, drop your score below and thank you very much in advance for playing.

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Smashing through the Friday Football Quiz is the ultimate warm-up for the weekend, but true football intellect requires keeping that momentum going well beyond that. Can you handle a shift to domestic goalscoring royalty and golden awards heritage? Let's find out, with more quizzes courtesy of Kwizly.

First, we want you to test your macro-vision of the English game by naming every team to have won one of English football's top four tiers, a comprehensive audit spanning top-flight champions to historic League Two and Fourth Division title winners. Once you’ve mapped out the pyramid's trophy-winners, pivot to individual stardom and see if you can name every Premier League player nominated for the Ballon d'Or since 2000, honouring the icons who represented the English top flight on football's most prestigious stage.

If your expertise leans more toward footballing landmarks and locker-room literature, we have two unique challenges waiting in the tunnel. Put your geographical and visual memory to work by trying to locate these famous football statues, identifying the bronze tributes erected to celebrate game-changing legends across the globe. Following that, trade the turnstiles for the library and test your bookish credentials by naming the authors of these footballer autobiographies, proving you know the minds behind the game's most famous tell-all memoirs.

To lower your pulse after that culture-heavy workout, settle into a quiet spot in the dugout for FourFourTwo’s Weekend Crossword 64, with clues on Silvers, Silvas and Sylvas. To ensure you stay top of the table every single day, make sure to subscribe to our newsletter for your daily briefing of hand-picked trivia and deep-dive analysis. To complete your transfer to terrace legend status, join The Club, our free membership hub where you can unlock secret hints for our toughest quizzes, climb global leaderboards, and debate the latest topics directly in the comments section.

It's one of the most oft-repeated pub claims: that Tony Cascarino was 'not really Irish', despite having made 88 appearances for the country over a 14-year international career.

Amusing though that nugget may be, it is based on a rather peculiar set of bygone attitudes.

The former Gillingham, Millwall and Marseille striker appeared at three major tournaments for the Republic of Ireland: Euro 88, plus the 1990 and 1994 World Cups.

Tony Cascarino clears up Irish eligibility controversy

At the time there was a lot of nonsense peddled by English fans and media about 'plastic' Irish players who had grown up in Britain but qualified through their ancestry.

And an extra wrinkle in London-born Cascarino's route to the international scene made the reaction to a 'revelation' in his autobiography that much harsher in 2000.

Newspapers had a field day at Cascarino revealing that his mother had been adopted by Irish parents, as if that makes any material difference to anything whatsoever.

More to the point, Cascarino himself didn't even know his mother was adopted until 1996, eight years in to his international career; and she had been registered in Ireland some years before his debut, too.

Nonetheless, the fact she was not Irish by blood led Cascarino to briefly question his identity, saying his initial reaction was: "I didn't qualify for Ireland. I was a fraud. A fake Irishman."

The FAI subsequently confirmed Cascarino's eligibility still would have stood because yeah, obviously it would.

Cascarino now feels rather less mixed about the matter, though, as he revealed to FourFourTwo.

He said: "My name’s Cascarino, so everybody always assumed I was Italian [in heritage].

"My mum is Teresa O’Malley – her [adopted] family are from Mayo, in Ireland.

"If my name had been O’Malley, not one person on the planet would have questioned me playing for Ireland - but because of my surname, everyone just assumed

.My grandfather was Michael O’Malley. He lived with us, but he never saw me play for Ireland.

"He’d have been really proud because he loved the country. I never had a second thought about it. When I got the chance to play for Ireland, I didn’t hesitate. I loved it."

We've got yet another FourFourTwo Quickfire Quiz waiting for your trivia attentions! Can you bag all 10 of these football questions in just 90 seconds?

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FourFourTwo has loads more football quizzes, all courtesy of Kwizly. First up, we want you to name all 95 clubs to have won any one of the top four tiers of English football.

If you know your famous football figures, why not have a crack at this quiz that asks you to identify 10 iconic football statues or name all of these footballer autobiographies from their titles alone. We also want to know whether you can name every Premier League player nominated for the Ballon d'Or since 2000.

This expert-level quiz asks you to guess these team line-ups based on the nationalities of their players alone. If that's too much, try naming the top 100 goalscorers in the history of the Premier League instead.

FourFourTwo's Big World Cup 2026 quiz will put your through your paces on the latest major summer football tournament. Let's find out how much you can remember about the competition in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

If you're on the hunt for a real test of your mettle, why not try to name 100 players from the clubs where they've played football in our latest career path quiz?

We have puzzles too. Our Weekend Crossword is a regular football teaser for your Sunday, and don't forget to sign up to the newsletter for more quizzes in your inbox. Don't forget to join The Club for free additional membership benefits!

You know when it became really obvious that the sun was setting on Trent Alexander-Arnold's Liverpool career? It had nothing to do with the transfer links, the fist-pumping after big games or even his own silence on his future – it was all the talk of individual trophies. “I want to be the first right-back to win the Ballon d'Or,” he told FourFourTwo in an exclusive interview – before reiterating that ambition upon signing for Real Madrid.

But come on, where is the logic in that? Why would you go to Real Madrid to stand out? Eight Los Blancos players have lifted the award – more than any other club – and in this day and age, the voters usually just converge upon a star of whoever has won the Champions League. But as was dramatically proven in 2024, that's where your colleagues can split the vote. Although he'd scored in the Champions League final that year, if Vinicius Jr had scooped team-mate Dani Carvajal's votes, he'd have comfortably beaten Rodri. That Jude Bellingham was also an option that year confused things further.

It's something that Real Madrid president Florentino Perez failed to grasp when it came to the Super League: if everyone's absolutely huge, then no one is. And now, Vinicius himself has seemingly fallen into the same trap.

It's not just about the Ballon d'Or, either. With goals in two Champions League finals, it would be utterly churlish to suggest that Vinicius has been anything other than a huge success at Real Madrid, ascending to a level where he is regarded, if not as the best left-winger in the world, then certainly one of a handful of footballers on Earth whose transfer saga could spark such interest. He is a superstar of the highest echelon. He is special.

But arguably, the best has already happened in Madrid for the Brazilian. And it happened before Kylian Mbappe arrived.

You can bring out the numbers to support your argument (and we will). Vini averaged over 60 touches per 90 minutes alongside Karim Benzema, which dropped to 50-something next to Mbappe. The goals have dropped slightly, too… but frankly, Vinicius will know this himself, with his team having conducted thorough analysis themselves as to which club would suit his profile. His output has dropped – but not massively – because he's an elite footballer. And rather like most things at the Bernabeu, no one will concern themselves with nerdy numbers.

But it's an obvious fact that the club is no longer Vinicius Jr's. This is Kylian Mbappe FC, now: another left-sided winger-cum-striker, who Real coveted for so long that they didn't give much thought as to how he would play with the superstar that they already had at home. When everyone is massive, no one is – as Vini found out to his chagrin last season, when Xabi Alonso hauled him off in the Clasico.

It's not that Vinicius is no longer a big deal in Madrid: he clearly is, as his new contract will “reflect his status”. Even the wording of that, however, makes it clear that Mbappe is top dog.

Should it come to it, perhaps Jude Bellingham is higher in the pecking order, too – given that he's better off the ball. The game is changing. Having two players like Vini and Mbappe is now seen as a throwback to the Galacticos, with Madrid having suffered two trophyless seasons and serious questions raised over who will step up and put in the work out of possession. Jose Mourinho could well be the final roll of the dice from Perez – one last go at conquering Europe again through aura alone – after getting in an actual tactician in Alonso failed.

And while one can never write off Real Madrid, it certainly seemed like the perfect chance for a clean break for all involved. Mourinho needs 10 players to work their backsides off for Mbappe. Vinicius has achieved everything at Real and doesn't need to prove himself much further – or to a manager who asked, “Why celebrate like that?” when Vinicius Jr was allegedly racially abused by one of his own players. Los Blancos were looking at collecting a nine-figure fee for a player who arguably causes more tactical headaches than he solves problems. It would have been a statement that no one is safe in this new regime.

Ousmane Dembele had a similar conundrum. The Frenchman was brought to Barcelona to service Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez: he moved to Paris Saint-Germain, and not unlike Vini, he was relegated to being Mbappe's sidekick.

As soon as he was given his own spotlight, he thrived. He won a team their first Champions League, instantly writing his name as a legend of that club. He lifted the Ballon d'Or and immediately took on more importance for his country, having been substituted in the first half of a World Cup final in 2022. Dembele is not just a better player than he's ever been before; he's a bigger player, too, because he's had the time and space to stand out on his own away from other stars.

Vinicius could have had a similar glow-up at Arsenal: a team geared towards playing for him, with the best out-of-possession structure in world football to mop up for him. The Gunners reached the Champions League final without a killer up front – arguably, without an A-list star of any kind – and Vini had the opportunity to be that player. He could have been the face of the biggest league in the world.

And were Arsenal to win the Champions League, the man who wins it for them becomes a shoo-in for the Ballon d'Or. Winning it is a big if – but it shrinks a little with a player like that in your team.

Instead, Vini has opted for the same path that Rodrygo chose last summer when he was rumoured to be offered a route out of Madrid. To remain one of several superstars in a team who will always prioritise other names. A team who are in the midst of a rebuild and not exactly patient when it comes to transition. A team whose big plan to reclaim the Champions League comes courtesy of post-Fenerbahce Mourinho.

It would have been nice to see some bravery, anyway. The next time he's thinking about leaving Spain, there might not be such big interest in him.

Liverpool are looking to hijack Arsenal's next transfer.

With the Gunners have tied up a move for Bruno Guimaraes and their ambitious pursuit of Vinicius Jr now over, Arsenal are looking to bring in a new defender, with Ezri Konsa of Aston Villa high on the priority list.

But with Liverpool also looking to bring in defensive cover, the Reds could hand another blow to the Premier League champions behind the scenes.

Liverpool weighing up move for Ezri Konsa – despite Arsenal interest

According to The Guardian, Konsa is now on the Reds' radar, as Andoni Iraola looks for who to partner Virgil van Dijk in defence.

With Ibrahima Konate having left for Real Madrid and Van Dijk now 35 years old, there is a need to improve depth at the back – especially given the youth of both Jeremy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni, who are both coming off the back of injuries.

Jacquet and Victor Munoz are the only two signings brought to Anfield thus far this summer, with Andoni Iraola's lack of depth highlighted by the fact that his assistant, former Bournemouth captain Tommy Elphick, had to fill in at centre-back during a recent training session.

Konsa has the benefit, too, of being able to play at right-back – which has been a problem position for both Arsenal and Liverpool.

FourFourTwo understands that the North Londoners have been spinning plenty of plates in the transfer market, with the £60 million price tag one that the champions have been reluctant to meet while pursuing the likes of Vinicius Jr and Bruno Guimaraes.

Interest from Mikel Arteta's childhood friend Iraola may spur the Gunners on to wrap up the move, with Ben White and Jurrien Timber having both suffered injuries to rule them out of the World Cup.

With doubts over William Saliba's fitness, too, Konsa could well cover there.

“With the centre-back, with the right-back situation, in terms of defensive depth, we are, I think, very thin right now,” Iraola recently admitted.

Joe Gomez will miss the start of the season, too, through injury.

Konsa is valued at €45m, per Transfermarkt. Liverpool take on Newcastle United on the first weekend of the new season.

Manchester United are to pivot, with another lower-price central midfielder in mind for Michael Carrick's rebuild.

The Red Devils have been priced out of several big moves this summer, with the likes of Youri Tielemans preferred to Matheus Fernandes, as Carrick looked to strengthen ahead of the club's return to the Premier League.

With more depth still needed, Manchester United are now targeting Giorgio Scalvini, according to The Telegraph.

Manchester United to pivot to alternate targets (again)

United are trying to keep costs down this summer: players like Eduardo Camavinga have been linked with moves, but United have brought in Tielemans and Andrey Santos, both for less than £50 million.

Now, Atalanta star Scalvini is said to be on the radar for around £32m – due, in part, to an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

The Italian was valued at around €60m at the start of 2024, with the likes of Chelsea and Inter Milan competing with United for the star – but following an ACL injury that kept him out of Euro 2024, Scalvini's value has dropped hugely.

The Express relays that the 22-year-old is now worth £32m, which could represent a huge steal, given that he was one of the great hopes of Italian football just a few short years ago.

Interestingly, Scalvini could well be an option across the defence – but also in midfield.

The Italian can play as a midfielder, with his tall frame and ability to get around the pitch likening him to Declan Rice as a midfield presence, suggesting he could well develop into a more defensive-minded presence alongside Tielemans or Kobbie Mainoo.

Scalvini played just eight times in the season following his injury, but racked up 30 games in all competitions last term, as he returned to his best.

With United eyeing what could be an expensive move for Newcastle United's Lewis Hall, cheaper signings elsewhere could fund a bigger rebuild.

Another forward could well be targeted, along with a right-back.

Scalvini is valued at €38m by Transfermarkt. United face Hull City on the opening day of the Premier League season.

It's time for another big quiz from FourFourTwo and this one's all about the professional game outside the Premier League.

Now known officially as the EFL, the Football League is a true original. Since 1992, it has been formed of the second, third and fourth tiers of the professional game, propping up the Premier League and supplying much of the cultural richness of the English game.

The EFL is made up of 72 teams and you have 15 minutes to name each and every one of them. Let us know your score below.

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FourFourTwo has a big ol' vault filled to bursting with football quizzes, all courtesy of Kwizly. There are some real toughies to tackle, including these challenges to identify the authors of these football autobiographies based on their titles and name the top 100 goalscorers in the history of the Premier League.

How about a football trivia classic? We've put together this enormous career paths quiz. Can you name all 100 players based on the clubs they represented in their careers?

Specialists in football's crossover with geography will be all over this quiz that asks you to identify these team line-ups from the nationalities of the players alone. If it's history that floats your boat, perhaps you'll be able to name every member of England's 1966 World Cup-winning squad.

We also have some great stuff for puzzlers, including FourFourTwo's Weekend Crossword 64. There are clues on Champions League finals, Olympic medallists, and name-dropping rappers. Remember to subscribe to our newsletter for your daily afternoon briefing of football trivia and analysis, and don't forget to join The Club: our free membership portal where you can secret hints and get on the leaderboard.

Transfer season invariably breeds sensationalism, and the latest rumour swirling around St. James' Park is a classic example.

A recent report from CaughtOffside claims that Newcastle are actively considering offloading Nick Woltemade this summer, with suggestions that the Magpies would even entertain a loan offer with an option to buy.

Naturally, domestic rivals including Liverpool, Aston Villa, and Manchester United have reportedly been put 'on alert.'

Nick Woltemade is gannin' naewhere

To the casual observer, the narrative makes sense. Woltemade’s debut campaign in Tyneside wasn't exactly a goal-a-game triumph, culminating in a bench-warming role for the latter part of the season.

But are Newcastle really ready - or able - to cut their losses so soon?

This assumption would overlook the most crucial factor dictating Newcastle's immediate future: their new head coach.

Newcastle’s decision to appoint German manager Matthias Jaissle as Eddie Howe's successor was not made on a whim, you'd hope. Football governance at the top levels dictates that when a club makes a managerial hire, they do so with their core squad investments firmly in mind.

Just 12 months ago, Newcastle committed roughly £70 million to bring Woltemade from VfB Stuttgart to the Premier League. Boardrooms don't simply write off a 24-year-old German international after a single adjustment season.

On the contrary, when Newcastle executives sat down with Jaissle during the recruitment process, maximising the potential of their £70 million marquee asset was almost certainly high on the agenda.

Part of Jaissle's remit will be to build a framework that puts to work the talent already in the building.

Throughout his successful tenure as Red Bull Salzburg boss, Jaissle deployed a dynamic, high-pressing 4-4-2 diamond midfield shape.

Unlike systems that rely heavily on traditional wingers, Jaissle’s diamond demanded a very specific profile upfront - a pairing featuring a clinical focal point alongside a technically-proficient, physically-striking forward able to drop into the half-spaces, link play, and connect midfield to attack.

Standing 6ft 6in, with great technical ability and link-up play, Woltemade is on paper, tailor-made for this role. Far from being surplus to requirements, the German forward is arguably the most natural tactical fit for Jaissle’s pressing diamond in Newcastle's squad.

Setting tactics aside, the logic of selling or loaning Woltemade to domestic rivals falls completely flat.

Newcastle’s leadership has repeatedly declared their ambition to consistently challenge for titles and silverware, outlining their 2030 goals. Sanctioning a move, especially a loan deal, that strengthens rivals with a 24-year-old German international forward to direct competitors would be foolish, to say the least.

Why would any club actively bolster a rival's attacking depth, undermining their own competitive objectives, all the while receiving little in return?

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso wants Martin Zubimendi of Arsenal at Stamford Bridge.

That's according to reports from Spain, which claim the new Blues boss still wants to add faces to his midfield options, and has targeted his fellow Spaniard as a potential new signing alongside Moises Caicedo.

Zubimendi has enjoyed a phenomenal 12 months, winning the Premier League and World Cup – but may well be open to the switch, given his playing time might be about to drop significantly.

Arsenal braced for Chelsea move, with Martin Zubimendi in Xabi Alonso's sights

FourFourTwo understands that Real Madrid – managed at the time by Alonso – were one of the frontrunners to sign Zubimendi a year ago, when it became apparently that the no.6 was open to leaving boyhood club, Real Sociedad.

Real pushed hard for the midfielder – as did Liverpool and Manchester City at different stages – though Zubimendi was won over in the end by the prospect of working with fellow Basque, Mikel Arteta, along with former team-mates Martin Odegaard and Mikel Merino.

Zubimendi played a whopping 57 games in all competitions last term for the Gunners, including every single Premier League fixture – but now, Spanish outlet Fichajes have reaffirmed claims from Chelsea writer Si Phillips that Alonso has requested the signing, following a potentially complicated future.

Arteta leant on Zubimendi heavily in the first half of the season, but by the end of the campaign, Myles Lewis-Skelly was starting in midfield alongside Declan Rice, even starting the Champions League final in place of the more experienced midfielder.

With Arsenal closing a deal for Newcastle United's Bruno Guimaraes now, minutes might become even harder for Zubimendi to come by in N5.

The 27-year-old was one of Arteta's most important players early in his debut term but looked tired towards the end of the campaign, becoming sloppier on the ball and failing to play with the same verticality and bravery that he showed when he first joined.

From Zubimendi's perspective, a move to Stamford Bridge would give him the opportunity to work with another Basque coach who understands his position – also having played there himself – and with Chelsea out of Europe this season, he wouldn't be as overworked in his sophomore season in English football.

Arteta has been quick to make up his mind about midfielders in the past, though FourFourTwo understands that he doesn't want to lose the World Cup-winning Spaniard, and the club will not be entertaining offers unless they're exceptional – especially with fitness concerns over Declan Rice.

The England international carried a back injury for much of the World Cup and played through “terrible pain” for the Three Lions at times, sparking fears that he may need a lengthy layoff before returning to domestic duty.

Zubimendi is worth €75 million, according to Transfermarkt. Chelsea start their Premier League season against Fulham.

Barcelona are on the brink of pulling off one of the most daring transfer hijacks of the summer window.

Ahead of arch-rivals Real Madrid, Los Cules are reportedly now in pole position to secure the signature of Manchester City midfielder Rodri.

According to a report from The Athletic, the Catalan giants have swooped in, capitalising on a breakdown in negotiations between Madrid and Man City, with a deal to take the 30-year-old Spain captain to Spotify Camp Nou now nearing completion.

Rodri to Real Madrid HIJACKED

For weeks, it appeared as though Real Madrid looked destined to land Rodri.

Following his excellent performances leading Spain to World Cup glory, Madrid president Florentino Perez supposedly prioritised the former Villarreal and Atletico Madrid star as the missing piece in Los Blancos' midfield.

Despite reaching an initial verbal agreement on personal terms, transfer talks between Madrid and Man City have broken down.

The Spanish club were unwilling to meet City’s £80 million asking price given he turns 31 next summer and is entering the final year of his contract. City’s refusal to lower their demands stalled progress, leaving the door open for a late intervention.

Rodri is reportedly open to the idea of joining Barcelona instead of Madrid, which will no doubt leave Man City chiefs pleased given the previous breakdown in talks that would have cost them up to £80m.

Barcelona are keen to bolster their central midfield options after a long-term injury to Frenkie de Jong, too.

With Los Cules guaranteeing a key tactical role alongside up-and-coming pair Pau Cubarsi and Lamine Yamal, Rodri has reportedly agreed to make the switch to Catalonia rather than Madrid.

A successful hijack would represent a statement of intent for Barcelona ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The LaLiga champions' transfer decision could see them land one of the world's best defensive midfielders, in addition to doing so from under the noses of their closest rivals.

For Real Madrid, losing out on their top transfer target to Barcelona would be a bitter pill to swallow, but does free up resources and strengthen their negotiating positions elsewhere.

KSI's ambitions for Dagenham & Redbridge would amount to one of the most ridiculous ascents English football has ever seen if he is able to pull it off - but the club's chief executive believes there is nothing to be gained from refusing to dream big.

The YouTuber bought a stake in Dagenham & Redbridge in March, which chief exec John Grabowski described as 'transformative' for the club.

They are now set to kick off their season in the sixth-tier National League South away to Dorking Wanderers, and are approaching this campaign with high hopes of beginning a climb up through the English football league.

Dagenham & Redbridge are starting the new season with huge ambitions

KSI's ambitions for a sixth-tier club with a ground holding just over 6,000 fans were met with no shortage of cynicism - but Grabowski believes it's not so unthinkable.

After all, we've already seen Wrexham launch themselves from the National League to the Championship, where they finished just one place outside the play-offs last season and will be looking to go again and reach the top flight in the coming campaign.

Grabowski told FourFourTwo: “Everyone wants to know, ‘Cool, what’s the plan?’”

"It’s naive to think we have too grand a long-term plan, but it would also be foolish not to think long-term given the opportunity.

"We all know that in KSI’s announcement, he said, ‘We’re going to get to the Premier League.’

"The first time I heard that, I sort of went ‘Uhh!’ and did a little gut check, but it’s not my job to tell him that’s not possible.

"He followed it up quite quickly, saying, ‘It might take time, it might take 20 years’, and I think in that context, it is absolutely possible – why not us?

“Phase one is to get out of the National League and back into the Football League, then once we’re in the Football League again, we’ll regroup.

"We’ve got other plans, but I think talking about those other plans before achieving phase one risks us getting out a little over our skis."

KSI is an owner of Dagenham & Redbridge – you can watch Race To The Top on the KSI Originals YouTube Channel

The last two seasons as a Tottenham Hotspur fan have been pretty miserable – aside from that glorious Europa League triumph – but I have a feeling the club has turned a corner ahead of the new campaign, and it’s largely thanks to Roberto De Zerbi.

In all honesty, though, I was dubious as to whether his appointment back in March would be the right move for Spurs long-term. I was pretty confident that he would drag the club to Premier League survival, and that he did, but would his fiery temperament be at odds with the powers that be at Tottenham?

There’s still plenty of time for that to happen, of course, but we are witnessing what appears to be a real change in the whole mindset of the club this summer, and it could even lead to a surprise title challenge.

Roberto De Zerbi’s appointment at Tottenham Hotspur had me worried

I don’t think I was alone in having doubts over De Zerbi. Tottenham had reportedly tried to hire the Italian before they recruited Igor Tudor for his ill-fated tenure in N17, but to no avail. The fact he changed his mind a month or so later didn’t sit right with me.

Add to that the fact that this is a manager who doesn’t stick around at clubs for too long (his average time at a club is just over a year), plus the way he left Brighton, and I feared we would be a quick gig with no real consideration of the future.

Even De Zerbi’s track record should raise a few eyebrows.

Aside from a Ukrainian Super Cup during his brief spell with Shakhtar Donetsk, his greatest achievements are steering Marseille to second in Ligue 1, and helping Brighton to a top six finish.

They’re not results to be sniffed at, but they also don’t get me dreaming of glory, either. More than anything, though, it was De Zerbi’s personality that just didn’t seem like it would fit at Spurs.

Much like Antonio Conte before him, this is a man who will say exactly what’s on his mind without fear of upsetting anyone, and as we’ve seen in the past, the Tottenham Hotspur board don’t really like that approach.

I do believe that no-nonsense style was exactly what the squad needed at the backend of last season, though, and it’s no coincidence that those seven matches in the run-in were the best Spurs had looked all year.

Tottenham Hotspur look more disciplined and confident under De Zerbi

Under both Thomas Frank and Igor Tudor, the Tottenham players looked bereft of confidence, lacked any kind of fight, and played turgid football. Since day one under De Zerbi, there has been clear passion and a real togetherness on the pitch, and that delivered the results Spurs needed to stay in the top flight.

After survival was secured, De Zerbi himself even claimed it was the “biggest achievement in my time”, before adding, “We are Tottenham, and we can't suffer like this until the last second of the last game to stay up.” You just get the feeling that De Zerbi is raising the standards at the club and will absolutely not tolerate anything like what we saw last season.

For me, no player exemplifies the shift in attitude at the club more than Micky van de Ven. Under Frank, the flying Dutchman appeared to mentally check out and became a liability. As soon as De Zerbi took over, Van de Ven turned into a leader once more, and looked back to his best.

Speaking to The Standard recently, Van de Ven said: “You can see [De Zerbi] has brought a lot of passion into our group, a lot in terms of mentality and passion on the pitch. It is something we needed because everybody was a little bit down.

“He brings a lot of good energy and, from pre-season, we have really had the time to bring his football into the team. That's really enjoyable.”

He’s right, too. This summer’s pre-season activity for Tottenham has been refreshing, with positive results (including a rare win over bitter rivals Chelsea), a mix of experienced and youth players having important roles, and most importantly, the levels in terms of intensity and quality have not dropped despite these games being friendlies.

Another key case study is the comeback story of Antonin Kinsky. The Czech goalkeeper hit rock bottom in the Champions League last season when he was substituted in the first half against Atletico Madrid after a couple of errors. Now, he looks world-class and is Tottenham’s undisputed number one, and it’s all because De Zerbi put faith in him.

The mentality at Tottenham Hotspur has shifted greatly in such a short space of time, and now feels far more aligned with the spirit Ange Postecoglou brought to the club. While Postecoglou’s tactics were questionable, his man management was outstanding. What’s really exciting is that De Zerbi appears to be capable of both.

Tottenham Hotspur are not messing around this summer

Whether it’s due to De Zerbi’s influence or merely a reaction to back-to-back 17th place finishes, the Tottenham hierarchy are finally showing ambition and loosening the pursestrings this summer.

The £85m signing of Mateus Fernandes was a lavish surprise. The £100m capture of Sandro Tonali was, frankly, mindblowing. The club immediately recognised the fact that things needed to change, and put their money where their mouth is to fix it. The same can be said about the defence, too, with the £52m signing of Jan Paul van Hecke and free transfers of Marco Senesi and Andy Robertson adding real depth to an already strong backline.

I’ve also been really intrigued by the manner in which Spurs have sold off some of their younger players this summer. While the departures of the likes of Luka Vuskovic, Alfie Devine, and Will Lankshear were disappointing, Tottenham received good fees for players who were not likely to make an impact on the first-team this season. In years to come, we may regret not having them around, but that’s a problem for another day. What matters now is immediate improvement and success.

Now, if Spurs can follow through with their pursuit of Savinho (or another top winger) and, most crucially, find a high-level striker to lead the line, I see no reason why the Lilywhites can’t be considered genuine dark horses to challenge for the title. The squad is good enough, the manager is determined to make his mark, and the club as a whole demands and deserves better than what we’ve seen over the last two seasons.

The idea of Spurs pushing for the title, especially after the dismal showing in 2025/26, may be a naive pipedream to some. But, I’ll leave you with this… In the 2014/15 season, Leicester City ended up with 41 points and a -9 goal difference. The following season, they performed a miracle and won the Premier League title.

If the Foxes can do it with relatively meagre resources, I see no reason why a free-spending and revitalised Tottenham Hotspur can’t do the unthinkable and rise to the top.

When reports first surfaced linking Arsenal with a move for Real Madrid’s Vinicius Júnior, eyes widened across North London and further afield.

Signing one of world football’s best wingers would be the ultimate statement of intent for a club keen to build on their recent Premier League success.

But strip away supporters' excitement over transfer rumours and examine the realities of modern transfer sagas, and a very different picture emerges.

Vinicius Jr. knows how to work the Real Madrid boardroom

It is this writer's opinion that Arsenal are not on the verge of landing a Real Madrid superstar.

Instead they're being used as a pawn in a game of contract poker with eye-watering stakes.

The core of this drama lies in the ongoing contract negotiations at the Santiago Bernabeu.

According to reports from ESPN, Real Madrid recently presented Vinicius with a fresh extension offer worth approximately €22 million per year. For Vinicius, this fell short of expectations, leading to another round of contract talks.

The 26-year-old Brazilian international is said to have rejected the proposal, with his representatives holding out for a total package closer to €30m annually, to reflect his standing alongside football's top earners and importance at Real Madrid.

Enter Arsenal.

Reports of Mikel Arteta’s interest and the Gunners' theoretical willingness to make Vinicius the highest-paid player in their history have naturally made headlines - he would be the Premier League's marquee summer signing.

But while Arsenal are undeniably ambitious, the notion that the Emirates hierarchy would blow apart their wage structure to offer in excess of the €22 million proposed by Real Madrid is fanciful.

Arsenal have built their recent success on smart financial discipline; destroying that wage balance for a single arrival would undermine a lot that Arteta has built during his seven years in charge.

The public narrative of Arsenal links growing increasingly credible couldn't be more conveniently timed for Vinicius' camp.

With just 12 months remaining on his current contract, Real Madrid face time pressure to reach a solution that satisfies all parties. This window represents the club's final realistic opportunity to command an above-market transfer fee for their star man before risking a cut-price deal or losing him for free next summer.

Florentino Perez and the Madrid board know they are backed into a corner: sign the extension or watch a prime asset walk next summer.

In modern transfer sagas, a mega-club’s public interest is the ultimate bargaining chip, and Vinicius evidently knows how to play the room.

Keeping Arsenal’s interest front and centre, and highly publicised, Vinicius and his representatives are generating maximum leverage for ongoing contract talks. The threat of the Premier League champions waiting in the wings forces Real Madrid’s hand, nudging them closer to bending towards that €30m figure.

For over a decade, Manchester United treated the transfer window like a global billboard, spending over a billion pounds on individual fame, while the actual football team fell apart.

They bought the clout instead of the profiles, paid the ‘United tax’ without question, and trapped themselves in a toxic cycle of bloated wages and broken dressing rooms. But today, that era is dead.

From walking away from extortionate fees to signing Premier League-proven quality, here is why Manchester United can finally be trusted in the transfer window again.

Manchester United chased the biggest names on Earth – with fees to match

Following the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson, Man United stopped operating as a football club and started operating honestly as what felt like at times a click farm. The commercial department discovered a lucrative cheat code: sign the biggest names in the world, dominate the digital news cycle, and watch the shirt sales and sponsorship deals soar so that you can then afford the biggest and best players.

And the cycle continues. Di Maria, Paul Pogba, Alexis Sanchez, Romelu Lukaku, and the emotional homecoming of Cristiano Ronaldo weren't always tactical additions – they were also brand activations.

In the boardroom, these transfers were triumphs. Pogba's announcement broke the internet (#Pogback). Sanchez playing the piano gathered millions of impressions. But on the pitch, the evidence was damning.

Across 10 years and five permanent managers, United consistently ranked among the highest spenders in Europe with a staggering 1.5 billion paid out on new players post-Fergie, while producing little to shout about on the pitch aside from a couple of trophies, none of which will be standing front and centre alongside the others in the club's illustrious trophy cabinet.

The structural conflict was unavoidable. Managers were handed expensive collections of individuals rather than compatible profiles. Louis van Gaal wanted functional system players; he was given superstars. Jose Mourinho wanted defensive steel; he was given commercial assets and untameable egos. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer built a fluid counterattacking side only to have it disrupted by the arrival of an ageing Ronaldo.

United was zigging when they should have been zagging. The ultimate lesson was painfully obvious: clout produces instant social media numbers, but without a unified tactical blueprint, it guarantees long-term sporting decay.

And nowhere was this more damaging than when they were getting out the chequebook. Because every club in Europe knew United lacked a modern scouting strategy, knew they had the money to spend due to the size and revenue of the club, and knew there was an air of desperation to get back to the top and sign the latest shiny toy, they applied a surcharge on every deal. It was the classic “they saw you coming” you give to your mate when he's paid 19 quid for two pints. The problem was they didn't learn their lesson and stamped up the cash every single time. This was the birth of what was known as the ‘United tax.’

When Ajax demanded £86 million for Antony, a winger who was valued at half of that just a few months earlier, United paid it. When Leicester held out for £80m for Harry Maguire, a fee deemed way too much by Man City, United folded.

United's wage structure was a mess

Worse than the transfer fees, however, was the wage structure. To convince world-class names to join a Europa League-level project, United handed out astronomical long-term contracts.

Alexis Sanchez was on nearly £500,000 a week, and David De Gea became the highest-paid goalkeeper in history. Despite constant rumours of a departure for the Spaniard, this created the sort of financial paralysis that crippled the club for a decade. When a player underperformed, United couldn't sell them. No club in Europe – only pretty much Saudi Arabia – was willing to match the wages of United's benchwarmers. Players like Anthony Martial, Donny van de Beek, and Eric Bailly sat on high salaries for years, eroding their market value to zero while soaking up big chunks of the wage budget.

Internally, too, it was a nightmare because when a long-standing player or new signing sees a teammate earning £300,000 a week, wage demands across the entire squad skyrocket. It destroyed the dressing room hierarchy and left the club unable to maneuver in the transfer market without risky moves or suffering big losses.

United's greatest weakness was a total absence of, let's call it, “walking away power.” By overpaying for everything, they built a cage that kept bad players in and modern success out.

And perhaps the most damning of all signings was Jadon Sancho: £73m to sign him, five years of inconsistency coupled with a few loan spells away from the club, hundreds of thousands of pounds per week in wages, and then released on a free at the end of it all.

So, how have INEOS turned things around in the past couple of years since taking over? And why does it feel like an image rebrand as well as a footballing one?

United never lacked a posterboy: they just lacked everything else

In years gone by, it's always seemed like Manchester United's success was defined by an enigmatic posterboy of a leader – a star individual or two backed up by the ones willing to do the dirty work. Cantona, Beckham, Ronaldo, Rooney. They won more titles than we care to recall for United. But that success doesn't happen without Neville, O'Shea, Carrick, Park. That was then though, and this is now.

Bruno Fernandes has been one of the best players in the Premier League for years. But without the squad around him, that isn't reflected in United's team success. Statistically, Bruno's output since arriving in 2020 is staggering. Nobody has created more chances in Europe's top five leagues. But relying on one man to be the primary creator, presser, and emotional anchor created an unhealthy dependency. When Bruno had an off day, Manchester United had an off day.

The strategy during those post-Fergie crisis years didn't change with the times, though. They still bought headliners and prayed they could hide the cracks in the ceiling. Enter Varane, Zlatan, Pogba, Rashford's new contract – Casemiro to an extent, although he did make a better go of it towards the end of his stint at Old Trafford. This hero complex crippled the development of a modern team structure.

Elite sides like Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City don't rely on ‘heroball’. They rely on raising the floor of their squad so that everyone is capable of producing a certain level of quality regularly, whether in the starting XI or on the bench. Every player knows where to stand, where to pass, and where to press when the ball is lost.

Is this mechanical football the best to watch? No. Would we rather watch players enjoy themselves and play with this indescribable joy that can't be taught? Yes. But modern football is modern football, and it's been working for a while now.

Needing a hero also stifles youth integration. Young academy players coming through weren't entering a functional, well-oiled machine that protected them; they were being thrown in at the deep end. That sort of thing has worked in the past. To be fair, nothing typified this more than when Marcus Rashford played out every club's dream scenario: the big club giving the opportunity to a young star, and he hits the ground running and never looks back. What a story. You don't, however, need me to explain why that isn't the greatest of strategies because you just can't rely upon it.

But now the story is different, and the most recent transfer windows are the proof. United are doing three things that have elevated their recruitment strategy and earned plenty of trust back from the supporters.

The critical change in United's fortunes

First, they are targeting Premier League-proven players that make sense from a value-for-money and squad-improving perspective. The additions of Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha represent a complete pivot in strategy. Let's face it, going from shopping at Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund to Wolves and Brentford is quite the switch. They aren't vanity signings designed to sell shirts around the world, but high-intensity, ready-made, proven profiles bought to win matches in the Premier League.

Secondly, they've got rid of an astronomical wage bill in favour of something more structured. Gone are the De Gea, Casemiro, Varane, and Sancho days. Now, salaries are reportedly all kept under 200 grand per week. That probably explains why Sandro Tonali wasn't of interest with his 270,000 per week deal that would have blown the bloody doors off that structure immediately. It's also evident in the wages of Mbeumo, Sesko, Cunha, and Tielemans, all between £150 to 180k per week.

And lastly, United have rediscovered the most powerful tool in negotiation: that walking away power we mentioned earlier. When faced with crazy, ransom-style demands for targets like Fernandez from West Ham, United didn't panic or overpay, but calmly walked away. Instead, they secured Youri Tielemans for an incredible £35m release – a move driven by his suitability to United's starting XI and financial sanity behind it all.

You could say that the quiet, pragmatic move lacks the thrill of a 100 million pound marquee signing that a club like Manchester United needs to be seen making to draw in show-stopping talent. But why would they continue to bang their head against the wall if it doesn't work? Tielemans provides immediate control and experience in the midfield, and he also does it without blocking the development runway for the talented Kobbie Mainoo. Mainoo remains the long-term heartbeat of the midfield. The throne is still his for the taking eventually, but for now, he's supported by experienced heads rather than overshadowed or competing with someone the same age who could literally block him for his entire career.

For the first time in over a decade, United aren't buying to solve a PR crisis or win a transfer window. They're buying to assemble a sustainable, modern football team – one that can compete not only at the top of the Premier League, but in European and domestic competitions, too. PSG have proven that ditching the superstars can reap rewards. And whilst they are in a completely different domestic situation to Manchester United, it's not a terrible model to follow. As the saying goes, Rome wasn't built in a day.

Arsenal’s summer pursuit of Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes is reaching its climax as the Brazilian midfielder prepares to finalise a £75 million move to the North London club.

Fresh details have emerged revealing the specific negotiation tactics employed by the Gunners during the transfer saga which is nearing a conclusion.

According to Sky Sports' North East reporter Keith Downie, Newcastle executives were left perplexed by Arsenal’s approach, particularly during the initial weeks of discussions.

Bruno Guimaraes to Arsenal is almost a done deal

The groundwork for the transfer was reportedly laid weeks ago when intermediaries approached Newcastle to gauge what it would take to tempt their star midfielder to the Emirates Stadium.

Shortly thereafter, Guimaraes indicated to Newcastle management that he was open to joining the reigning Premier League champions.

Rather than capitalising on the momentum with an immediate, official approach, Arsenal backed off.

Downie reports: "Arsenal elongated the transfer by refusing to contact Newcastle for weeks — which Newcastle found bizarre."

Instead of opening a direct line of communication between boardrooms, Arsenal are said to have continued operating through middle-men for an extended period. This approach reportedly left Newcastle officials scratching their heads over why the Gunners were deliberately stalling formal contact when the player's interest had already been established.

Newcastle were desperate to retain Guimaraes and had zero desire to sell their marquee midfielder, but found their hands tied. Had the 28-year-old expressed a willingness to remain on Tyneside, the Magpies would have rejected any offers from Arsenal or any rival suitor.

However, 28-year-old Guimaraes maintained his stance, informing Newcastle bosses that he wanted to leave because he felt joining Arsenal represented a better chance of competing for major titles.

Once Arsenal did initiate club-to-club contact and met Newcastle's financial valuation, negotiations progressed swiftly towards the £75m agreement which is close to being ratified by the Premier League.

Relations between Guimaraes and Newcastle remain entirely amicable ahead of his arrival in North London.

While losing their captain is a major blow, the £75m windfall provides financial flexibility as the club rebuilds itself ahead of the new season and a new sporting cycle on Tyneside.

Portuguese legend Luis Figo has slammed Gianni Infantino's leadership of FIFA in a damning statement on the sport's governing body.

Figo is no stranger when it comes to speaking his mind about FIFA, having formally launched a campaign in 2015 for the FIFA presidency, on a platform advocating for increased transparency.

He ultimately withdrew shortly before the vote, expressing frustration with an undemocratic electoral process – and now he's had more to say about Infantino…

Luis Figo's statement on Gianni Infantino in full

As an Inter Milan fan, Infantino would have once been a huge fan of Figo – but following the 53-year-old's latest comments, he may have to rescind such adoration.

“Today I join others from across our game and call for Gianni Infantino to resign as FIFA President,” Figo said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

“Infantino has debased the office that he promised to elevate. He has lied, deceived and tried to feather his own nest at the expense of the game he is supposed to serve.

“He has lost the support of his senior staff, his closest advisers, the vast majority of people who devote their lives to this sport and even, it would seem, the FIFA Peace Prize winner. 

“It is too late to save his dignity, but it is not too late to save football. He should go. Now. #Infantinout”

Would Luis Figo run for presidency again?

Figo has not stated whether he is still weighing up a bid to become FIFA president, having previously put himself forward 11 years ago.

Fans from across the world (excluding Barcelona, perhaps) would likely be in favour of the former winger taking the reins at the organisation: Figo has been an outspoken critic of the way that the game has been run under the likes of Sepp Blatter and Gianni Infantino, and with widespread clamour for the governing body to reform, a former professional player would be a popular option.

Despite this, there's no guarantee that Figo would be a hit with the viewing public. Arsene Wenger has spent most of his life playing and managing at the top level – and his suggestions for ‘daylight’ offside and a World Cup every two years have been almost unanimously panned.

Besides, Figo has very little experience – which may not sway voters. Infantino had previously served as Secretary General of UEFA for seven years prior to becoming FIFA president, overseeing the expansion of the European Championship to 24 teams: something that he replicated at the World Cup to great success.

There may also be a feeling from confederations other than UEFA that it's time to give the role to a non-European, with Joao Havelange the federation's last president from the rest of the world. The Brazilian stepped down in 1998 and remains the only man from outside Europe to have served in office.

Ex-Real Madrid star Figo has previously served as an ambassador for FIFA, and requires the backing of five member associations.

Has a former footballer ever been FIFA president?

No, a professional player has never been FIFA president – though funnily enough, a former Olympic swimmer has been.

Figures such as Jules Rimet, Stanley Rous, Blatter and Infantino himself entered the world of sport after backgrounds in law or administration – though Joao Havelange did swim competitively for Brazil.

Figo was not alone in his bid in 2015 to become FIFA president, however: Brazilian legend Zico announced his desire to stand for the presidency following Blatter's resignation, but failed to secure the mandatory written backing of five national football associations – while David Ginola also talked up a potential bid.

The Sky Blues are expected to complete the signing of 20-year-old Ghanaian international Caleb Yirenkyi, bringing in a player whom talent spotters across Europe view as a future top-flight star.

Yirenkyi’s development follows a proven blueprint. Developed at Ghana’s famed Right to Dream Academy, he made the well-trodden transition to its European partner club, FC Nordsjaelland in Denmark.

That exact pipeline previously launched international talents like Mohammed Kudus and Kamaldeen Sulemana into top-five European leagues.

All you need to know about Caleb Yirenkyi

In the Danish Superliga, Yirenkyi rapidly developed into an elite performer, combining tactile composure with excellent physical capacity - in short, he is the epitome of box-to-box.

At his core, Yirenkyi is a complete, dynamic engine in the middle of the park. Scouts who have monitored his progression have told FourFourTwo all about his well-rounded skillset.

Yirenkyi disrupts opposition build-up with his defensive work-rate, winning loose balls, tackling hard, and hassling ball-carriers. Meanwhile, in possession he displays press-resistance under pressure, distributes cleanly, and drives forward into open space.

While nominally a central midfielder, which is where he is likely to feature for the Sky Blues, Yirenkyi's athleticism and discipline mean he has regularly been trusted to operate as a right-back for his national team.

Yirenkyi is no hidden secret on the international scene, having announced himself to a global audience with Ghana at the 2026 World Cup. The youngster featured prominently throughout the Black Stars' tournament run, highlighting his big-stage composure by scoring on his World Cup debut against Panama, whilst competing admirably in high-stakes fixtures against England and Colombia.

With Coventry beginning the 2026/27 campaign as newly promoted underdogs, most casual observers won't expect the Midlands club to make waves or do much else than stay up, meaning signings like Yirenkyi could initially fly under the radar.

That lack of fanfare gives the Ghanaian huge underdog potential. If he adapts quickly to the tempo of English football, of which there is no guarantee, Yirenkyi has every chance of outperforming expectations and emerging as one of the most underrated transfers of the entire Premier League season.

Liverpool are expected to tie up a signing from Paris Saint-Germain – and it's not Bradley Barcola.

Barcola has been a primary target for the Reds since the start of the transfer window, following Mohamed Salah leaving Liverpool after nine years – and now, according to RMC Sport, a move for Senegalese striker Ibrahim Mbaye is “expected” to reach an agreement.

The report suggests that this will be a “historic” summer in terms of sales from the European champions, with Paris Saint-Germain having already trousered nearly €150 million from to the sales of Kang-in Lee to Atletico Madrid, Goncalo Ramos to Milan, and Randal Kolo Muani to Juventus.

Ibrahim Mbaye close to Liverpool move - with Bayer Leverkusen circling, too

Mbaye has two years left on his current Paris Saint-Germain deal and is a highly-rated striker in French football – but with plenty of competition for places in attack and Les Parisiens hoping to land an A-list attacker in the shape of Julian Alvarez or Yan Diomande earlier in the window, a pathway for the 18-year-old to be regularly starting for manager Luis Enrique looks to be a little hazy.

The Senegalese is valued at anywhere between €35-45 million – but with interest from Bayer Leverkusen, too, Liverpool are in a battle for his signature.

Canal+ journalist Olivier Talleron has claimed in a post on X (formerly Twitter) that the Bundesliga side have the edge of Liverpool at this stage, in contrast to RMC Sport's report, with the latter claiming that Mbaye is interested by the prospect of developing on Merseyside.

They also note that despite discussions continuing for Barcelona to move to Anfield, “the two sides are currently far apart” in their valuations of the French international.

“Between the price set by the Parisian club (over €150 million) and the Reds' desire to avoid breaking the bank, a compromise will need to be found for the deal to go through,” they state.

FourFourTwo understands that the Mbaye pursuit is a separate deal from Barcola and not necessarily an alternative, with the Frenchman more of a left-winger and the Senegalese primarily an option on the right wing.

Both players can play on both flanks – and up front – with new signing Victor Munoz, Florian Wirtz, Cody Gakpo, Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike all players who can play on the left, too.

It's uncertain just yet as to which any of those options will play on the left, up front or behind the striker, and whether any will play on the right – or whether that spot will be filled by the likes of Jeremie Frimpong or Dominik Szoboszlai, who played there last season.

While Bournemouth manager, Iraola was no stranger to playing a right-footed right-winger, or a left-footer on the left, with Alex Jimenez used on the right for swathes of last season before Marcus Tavernier became first-choice on the left towards the end of the season.

Mbaye is worth €30m, according to Transfermarkt. Liverpool kick off their Premier League campaign against Newcastle United when the new season begins.

“You fear for them, you really do”. A well-worn cliché that pundits will use to express their worries for at least one club at the beginning of every Premier League season, often before a ball has even been kicked in earnest.

This year, it looks like my beloved Newcastle United are chief among the sides attracting fretful glances, based on a summer of high-profile outgoings and much lower-profile arrivals, creating a squad littered with uncertainty and inexperience.

What’s more, head coach and certified club legend Eddie Howe walked away with just three weeks to go before the Premier League’s return and, at the time of writing, his successor is yet to have been formally announced.

No more silly notions of challenging for titles - only excitement and potential

Given all of this chaos, it’s easy to see why pundits, fans and casual observers are looking at Newcastle like a giant bin fire that no one’s bothering to pour so much as a glass of water over. Yet, I’m much more excited about this upcoming season than seemingly everyone else.

Firstly, I’m delighted to see Newcastle doing what they should have been doing all along, identifying young, exciting players with potential and bringing them in with development and future profit in mind. It was a method that worked perfectly with Alexander Isak, Sandro Tonali and now Bruno Guimaraes and should never have been abandoned.

Instead, we’re now forced to live with the consequences of last summer’s drastic overspend, which has burdened us with players like Anthony Elanga and Yoane Wissa, who are unlikely to be moved on any time soon, or generate the club any profit at all. All we can do is hope they come good, but there’s little evidence to suggest that’s coming this season. Prove me wrong, lads. Please?

Despite that, we’re now looking at a refreshed squad full of youth and exuberance and, although it’s certainly a risk, a few more arrivals are needed between now and the start of the season. I’m really excited about watching these players grow and create moments to remember in black and white and eventually be disheartened when they leave in big money moves to clubs who are simply better placed to pay what they should be earning.

Sure, losing the likes of Isak, Guimaraes, Anthony Gordon and Tonali has been painful, but only because those players are success stories of a transfer policy that served us extremely well before it was carelessly dropped. I’d much rather be gutted to lose Bazoumana Toure and Aladji Bamba to bigger sides in years to come, than be praying to see the back of them because their moves haven’t worked out. This is how we should have been doing business all along, and I’m pleased to see it make a return.

Something I'm less keen to see back at Newcastle any time soon are the ridiculous suggestions of competing for titles, or challenging among the top clubs in the world by 2030. Granted, those ideas have been pushed into the public conscience by people from within the club, first by Amanda Stavely and then by CEO David Hopkinson, creating a completely false sense of identity that Newcastle fans were stuck with. Not many of us believed those statements were true and, in the long run, they’ve made the club look silly, rather than giving them the appearance of genuine, serious contenders.

By putting these new foundations in place, Newcastle once again have a realistic project to be excited about instead of one that feels like it’s trying to achieve more than it is ever capable of and is subsequently, obviously, doomed to fail. Last season was dispiriting for those very reasons, particularly during the summer, as the Mags tried to lure in huge, expensive and unrealistic targets like Hugo Ekitike and Benjamin Sesko, while also trying to balance PSR spreadsheets.

This year is not going to be defined by an inability to spend big on players who probably don’t want to come to Newcastle anyway. Instead, it’s going to be defined by effective recruitment and forward thinking, with players desperate to impress and make a name for themselves at St James’ Park, rather than those who would be instantly eyeing up the next big move.

The recruitment hasn't only been exciting on the pitch either, with new boss Matthias Jaissle potentially the most intriguing arrival of the summer, if the club ever announces it formally. Howe’s project had grown stale and, as much as I love the man for everything he did at Newcastle, he looked depleted and bereft of energy, even after his summer break. It was obvious towards the end of last season that a change was needed and, while it’s come later than I would have liked, I’m pleased he was eventually able to admit that his stepping down was in everyone’s best interests.

Now, instead of dreading another unimaginative and predictable 90 minutes of Howe-ball at the start of the season, in which we only get like-for-like substitutes after the 80th minute, I cannot wait to see how Jaissle sets us up and tinkers with the squad and implements his ideas and philosophies, which are said to be attacking-minded and aggressive according to those who know, and gets the team working together over time.

Obviously, there’s every chance he may not be able to do that, or it may take him a while, but I’m much more optimistic about his chances than I was of Howe ever rediscovering the energy and passion that drove us to our first trophy in decades, that had completely drained from both him and the squad over the last 12 months.

That's not to say it's been a perfect summer. I do sympathise with those concerned about Newcastle’s future, but I cannot help but also be fascinated and positive about how the club has reacted to a year in which the consequences of their mistakes and poor decisions have made life for them and their supporters extremely difficult.

There is work to be done still. A lot of it, in fact. But, free from expectation and unfettered by daft delusions of grandeur, I truly believe this could be the start of a great new period for Newcastle United, rather than simply the end of its most successful one in living memory.

Fighting relegation could not have been further away from Spurs' aspirations this time last year, after winning the Europa League and hiring Thomas Frank.

The harsh reality was that it took victory on the final day to retain their Premier League status, on the back of a torrid 12 months. While the inquest into who is to blame will continue for some time yet, one thing is certain: in 2026-27, there can be no mention of the ‘R' word again.

The feeling among fans is that it surely can't get any worse than finishing 17th twice in succession (Mick McCarthy meme notwithstanding), so there are reasons for optimism.

Surely it is only up from here for Spurs?

Fortunately, Spurs' finances were still in good shape having avoided the drop, and they moved quickly to add players to their squad. Marcos Senesi is among the top flight's best centre-backs and Jan Paul van Hecke a reliable partner for him, while Andy Robertson will maintain standards.

Midfielder Mateus Fernandes then arrived from West Ham for £85m, a club record fee quickly eclipsed when a deal was agreed to bring in Sandro Tonali for £100m. Roberto De Zerbi can now shape a new squad. The miracles that the Italian boss worked in turning around Spurs' season cannot be underestimated, and the time he'll get on the training pitch should set up Spurs to climb into the top half, at least – ideally before a very spicy May schedule.

The Coach

If Roberto De Zerbi's first few months are anything to go by, this season could be far more entertaining for Spurs fans (in a good way). Galvanising an underperforming team was an impressive opening act, and even his combustible nature is preferable to drab pragmatism.

Key Player

Before injury ended his season in January, Mohammed Kudus was providing the sort of game-changing moments his side needed, and subsequently missed. Was he consistent? No, but the Ghanaian is brilliant in 1v1 situations and can benefit from De Zerbi's style of play.

Last Season's Results

PREMIER LEAGUE: 17th

FA CUP: Third Round

LEAGUE CUP: Fourth Round

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE: Last 16

Top Scorer

Richarlison bagged 12 goals in all competitions for his Spurs side last season.

Lessons From Last Year

Build a squad big enough to deal with injuries and a busy schedule. Not having European football this season is arguably no bad thing for Spurs, who have faced an injury crisis like no other over the past two years. But with that comes the expectation of a deep cup run, where midweek changes cannot reduce the overall quality of the XI.

Most Likely To...

Continue their tradition of taking points from Manchester City while struggling to get anything from the North London Derby. They've picked up just one point from their last eight Premier League matches against Arsenal – they must do better, if only to make their rivals' title charge a bit more difficult.

Least Likely To...

Consistently sell out their stadium. The relationship between the club and the fans has been damaged – a few signings won't fix that. The away support is fantastic, but convincing fans to buy the league's second-most expensive season ticket – after three wins there – is a big ask. At least tourists love it…

View From The Stands

Words by: TOM HAYWARD

Last season was utterly embarrassing, pathetic, cowardly – take your pick.

This season will be different because Roberto De Zerbi has earned the right to a very strong summer, by saving us from financial and reputational ruin with a mid-table Championship squad to pick from. Can he now build on what he cultivated in two months?

Our key player will be James Maddison. I hope he can return to his best level. We badly missed his quality and character.

Look out for young striker Will Lankshear. He had a decent season on loan in the Championship, and there's an opening for a homegrown hitman to make a hero of himself…

The opposition player I'd love here is Morgan Rogers – absolute class.

I won't be happy unless we sign three or four attackers. The quality and availability of last term's forward options might have been our worst in the Premier League era.

Fans think our owners are incompetent, at best.

A social media account to follow is Change For Tottenham (CFT), AKA @ChangeForSpurs, which is a fan group dedicated to holding owners ENIC to account for the first time.

The ground I'm least looking forward to visiting is the Emirates. No league wins there in 16 years is unacceptable.

Our biggest grudge match will be against anyone and everyone who wanted us to go down last season – so they're all on our list.

We'll finish 8th.

Fixtures

AUGUST

22 Brentford (A)

29 Newcastle (H)

SEPTEMBER

5 Nott'm Forest (A)

12 Everton (H)

19 Aston Villa (H)

OCTOBER

10 Man United (A)

17 Coventry (H)

24 Chelsea (A)

31 Crystal Palace (H)

NOVEMBER

7 Leeds (A)

21 Ipswich (H)

28 Sunderland (A)

DECEMBER

2 Fulham (H)

5 Arsenal (H)

12 Hull City (A)

19 Liverpool (A)

26 Bournemouth (H)

30 Brighton (H)

JANUARY

2 Man City (A)

6 Fulham (A)

16 Leeds (H)

23 Crystal Palace (A)

30 Sunderland (H)

FEBRUARY

6 Ipswich (A)

10 Man City (H)

20 Brighton (A)

27 Liverpool (H)

MARCH

3 Bournemouth (A)

13 Nott'm Forest (H)

20 Everton (A)

APRIL

10 Brentford (H)

17 Newcastle (A)

24 Hull City (H)

MAY

1 Arsenal (A)

8 Chelsea (H)

15 Coventry (A)

23 Man United (H)

30 Aston Villa (A)

Title Odds

Tottenham Hotspur to win the Premier League title odds: 50/1

FFT Verdict

FourFourTwo verdict: Tottenham Hotspur to finish 8th.

The improvement in performances following De Zerbi's late arrival was remarkable, so imagine what he can do with a pre-season and better, fitter players at his disposal. That's the theory, anyway…

This feature was written in June as part of FourFourTwo magazine's legendary Season Preview issue which can be ordered here.

The Carabao Cup is back for 2026/27 as clubs across the top four divisions of English football battle it out to reach the final at Wembley on March 21. FourFourTwo is here with all the broadcast information you need to watch every game live.

The Carabao Cup – also known as the English Football League Cup, or EFL Cup – was established in 1960 and is English football's secondary cup competition. Unlike the FA Cup, which includes clubs from all the way down the football pyramid, the EFL Cup features only teams from the Premier League down to League Two.

This year, the first round is taking place across the weekend of August 6-10, with 35 fixtures involving clubs from the Championship, League One and League Two. Premier League teams who aren't playing in Europe in 2026/27 join the competition in round two, before the sides participating in the Champions League, Europa League or Conference League enter in the third round. Manchester City are the EFL Cup holders after beating Arsenal 2-0 in last season's final to lift the trophy for the ninth time.

In this guide, we'll show you how to watch Carabao Cup live streams in the UK, US, and around the world, and how you can use a VPN to tune in while you're abroad.

• Read More: Bromley vs Leicester and 10 more things to look forward to in the EFL this season

Can you watch the Carabao Cup for free?

The Carabao Cup will have at least one game per round available free-to-air in the UK on ITV and the free ITVX streaming service.

In the US, a limited number of games will also be available to watch for free via the CBS Sports Golazo Network.

The games expected to be free this week are:

• Bristol City vs Walsall — CBS Sports Golazo Network
• Wolves vs Port Vale — CBS Sports Golazo Network
• Wrexham vs Middlesbrough — ITV

Abroad for a round of the Carabao Cup? You need a VPN to unlock your stream — find out more below.

How to watch the Carabao Cup from abroad

Chances are you'll find yourself overseas when some Carabao Cup games are taking place, but does that mean you have to miss the action? No, it doesn't... a VPN will ensure you get your coverage from anywhere.

Carabao Cup live streams are geo-restricted on all streaming services, but a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a neat way around this, unpicking the geo-locks by altering your device's digital location. It's great for accessing your usual streaming services while on the move, and it does wonders for your internet security, too.

NordVPN is the best, so say our good friends across the office at TechRadar.

How to watch the Carabao Cup in the UK?

Every Carabao Cup game will be broadcast live on Sky Sports, with select matches on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football. Every other fixture will be available on Sky Sports+.

As mentioned above, ITV will have live coverage of at least one game per round, including the final. Matches shown on ITV and ITVX will be completely free.

How to watch the Carabao Cup in the US

Paramount+ is the home of the Carabao Cup in the USA, with select games available to stream live.

Some matches will also be shown live for free on the CBS Sports Golazo Network.

How to watch the Carabao Cup in Australia

Fans in Australia can watch every Carabao Cup match live on beIN Sports, with all games available on the beIN Sports Connect streaming platform.

Plans start from $15.99 a month or $159.99 a year, and you can also take advantage of a one-week free trial.

Other Carabao Cup live streams around the world

English football is popular all over the world so it's no surprise you can watch Carabao Cup live streams in dozens of countries. Here are a few providers in select locations:

Africa

Carabao Cup coverage in Africa is mostly shared between BeIN Sports and SuperSport.

BeIN Sports have the rights in Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, and Tunisia.

SuperSport have the rights in Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Cote d'Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, South Africa, South Sudan, St Helena and Ascension, Sudan, Swaziland, United Republic of Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Canada

DAZN has the rights to Carabao Cup live streams in Canada.

Hong Kong

Viewers in Hong Kong can tune into Carabao Cup action on TVB.

New Zealand

beIN Sports is your destination to watch the Carabao Cup 2026/27 in New Zealand.

South Africa

Carabao Cup fans in South Africa can watch all the action via subscription service SuperSport.

Carabao Cup — Round 1 Fixtures

All times BST

Thursday 6 August

7:45pm — Bristol City vs Walsall

Friday 7 August

7:45pm — Wolverhampton Wanderers vs Port Vale

7:45pm — Wycombe Wanderers vs Stevenage

8:00pm — Middlesbrough vs Wrexham

Saturday 8 August

1:00pm — Cambridge United vs Barnet

2:00pm — Queens Park Rangers vs Millwall

3:00pm — AFC Wimbledon vs Newport County

3:00pm — Barnsley vs Wigan Athletic

3:00pm — Bradford City vs Rochdale

3:00pm — Bristol Rovers vs Peterborough United

3:00pm — Bromley vs Reading

3:00pm — Burnley vs Notts County

3:00pm — Burton Albion vs Blackburn Rovers

3:00pm — Cardiff City vs Swindon Town

3:00pm — Crewe Alexandra vs Accrington Stanley

3:00pm — Derby County vs Lincoln City

3:00pm — Fleetwood Town vs Chesterfield

3:00pm — Gillingham vs Luton Town

3:00pm — Grimsby Town vs Blackpool

3:00pm — Leicester City vs Northampton Town

3:00pm — Leyton Orient vs Oxford United

3:00pm — Norwich City vs MK Dons

3:00pm — Preston North End vs Huddersfield Town

3:00pm — Salford City vs Shrewsbury Town

3:00pm — Sheffield Wednesday vs Bolton Wanderers

3:00pm — Stockport County vs Doncaster Rovers

3:00pm — Stoke City vs Oldham Athletic

3:00pm — Swansea City vs Birmingham City

3:00pm — Watford vs Crawley Town

3:00pm — West Ham United vs Portsmouth

5:30pm — Cheltenham Town vs Charlton Athletic

5:30pm — Colchester United vs Southampton

5:30pm — Rotherham United vs West Bromwich Albion

Sunday 9 August

4:00pm — Mansfield Town vs Sheffield United

Monday 10 August

8:00pm — Plymouth Argyle vs Exeter City

What are the Carabao Cup 2026/27 round dates?

• Round One: 6-10 August 2026
• Round Two: w/c 24 August 2026
• Round Three: w/c 7 September and w/c 14 September 2026
• Round Four: w/c 26 October 2026
• Quarter Finals: w/c 14 December 2026
• Semi-Final First Leg: w/c 11 January 2027
• Semi-Final Second Leg: w/c 1 February 2027
• Final: Sunday 21 March 2027

We recommend VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

Given the extraordinary feats of Regis Le Bris' plucky side over the past year, Sunderland's outlook going into this season is wildly different to last.

Ahead of 2025-26, everyone expected an inexperienced Black Cats side to be battling for survival after their Championship play-off triumph.

Instead, they produced one of the stories of the season, finishing seventh and immediately qualifying for the Europa League.

Can Regis Le Bris' men shock the world once more?

Le Bris blended the core that took Sunderland up with a series of ambitious signings, including Nordi Mukiele from PSG and Brian Brobbey from Ajax.

Granit Xhaka was arguably the Premier League's signing of the season, rocking up 12 months after a near-flawless campaign at Bayer Leverkusen to bring leadership and composure to the newly promoted side. Two more core additions, Noah Sadiki and Omar Alderete, were less heralded but no less impressive.

The Stadium of Light quickly became one of the league's most difficult away trips. Sunderland's own travels brought them wins over Chelsea, Everton and, most satisfyingly, neighbours Newcastle. Now comes the even trickier part. Sunderland are a surprise package no more.

The squad must balance domestic commitments with Thursday nights in Europe. We've seen how that schedule can cause growing clubs to crumble. Fans will rightly love every trip, but the club must keep its feet on the ground.

The Coach

Sunderland's appointment of Regis Le Bris in June 2024 appeared strange, given that he'd just been relegated from Ligue 1 with Lorient. It was a masterstroke: the ex-defender trusted youth to take the Black Cats back to the promised land, then to even greater heights.

Key Player

Enzo Le Fee's arrival in January 2025 caught the attention – six months after joining Roma for around £20m, he was moving on loan to the Championship. The midfielder quickly helped Sunderland to win promotion, then signed permanently and impressed again in the top tier.

Last Season's Results

PREMIER LEAGUE: 7th

FA CUP: Fifth Round

LEAGUE CUP: Second Round

Top Scorer

Brian Brobbey bagged seven goals in all competitions last season for Sunderland.

All seven came in the Premier League, and he added an assist to that haul in 31 appearances.

Lessons From Last Year

The kids are all right. Sunderland had the youngest average starting XI in their promotion campaign, then the second youngest (after Chelsea) in the Premier League.

That couldn't stop them dazzling, and Le Bris deserves huge credit for giving youngsters opportunities to play. Robin Roefs, Chemsdine Talbi, Chris Rigg, Habib Diarra and Eliezer Mayenda all found regular game time while under the age of 23. They rarely looked out of place.

Most Likely To...

Come out on top in the Tyne-Wear derby. For all of last term's heroics, beating Newcastle home and away was the sweetest achievement of all. Brobbey's late St James' Park winner to complete the double in March is a moment that travelling supporters will never forget – nor let their rivals forget.

Least Likely To...

Pay attention to the doubters. Few neutrals expected Sunderland to survive, let alone finish in the top seven. They became only the fifth newly promoted club to qualify for Europe through league position.

View From The Stands

Words by: MICHAEL POTTS @MichaelPotts_

Last season was a fairy tale. We were meant to go down without a trace, not end up in Europe for the first time in 53 years. There's a buzz around the place – the city is on a high and you can feel it.

This season will be different because last season was almost a free hit – now we've set the bar ridiculously high.

The big talking point is if we're prepared for the Thursday-Sunday routine. A reminder: we “weren't prepared for the Premier League” 12 months ago.

Our key player will be Enzo Le Fee. With goals, assists and graft, too, he's probably the most gifted footballer I've ever seen play in red and white. I'm enjoying him while I can.

Look out for 21-year-old midfielder Noah Sadiki, who joined us last year. The reason we're going back to the Moon is to find some ground he hasn't covered yet.

The opposition player who grinds my gears is Joelinton. He's the softest hard man you'll ever see on a football pitch.

Fans think our owner is the best thing to happen to our club in decades.

The one change I'd make at our club is to expand the Stadium of Light. We sell it out every week – people can't get season tickets – so it's time to go above 50,000.

I won't be happy unless we reach the Europa League knockouts. I'd accept a weaker league campaign to make the most of our shot.

We'll finish 12th, after a run to the Europa League final. Dare to dream, eh?

Fixtures

AUGUST

22 Ipswich (A)

29 Fulham (H)

SEPTEMBER

5 Brentford (A)

12 Arsenal (H)

19 Man City (A)

OCTOBER

10 Brighton (H)

17 Bournemouth (A)

24 Leeds (H)

31 Coventry (A)

NOVEMBER

7 Chelsea (H)

21 Aston Villa (A)

28 Tottenham (H)

DECEMBER

2 Liverpool (A)

5 Newcastle (A)

12 Nott'm Forest (H)

19 Crystal Palace (H)

26 Everton (A)

30 Man United (A)

JANUARY

2 Hull City (H)

6 Liverpool (H)

16 Chelsea (A)

23 Coventry (H)

30 Tottenham (A)

FEBRUARY

6 Aston Villa (H)

10 Hull City (A)

20 Everton (H)

27 Crystal Palace (A)

MARCH

3 Man United (H)

13 Brentford (H)

20 Arsenal (A)

APRIL

10 Ipswich (H)

17 Fulham (A)

24 Nott'm Forest (A)

MAY

1 Newcastle (H)

8 Brighton (A)

15 Bournemouth (H)

23 Leeds (A)

30 Man City (H)

Title Odds

Sunderland to win the Premier League title odds: 500/1

FFT Verdict

FourFourTwo verdict: Sunderland to finish 17th.

A leap from 12th to 7th in the final two games was a reward for bold transfers, even if xG tables (sorry) had them 18th. Pfft! Enjoy Europe and trust that the squad has the strength – if not depth – to survive.

This feature was written in June as part of FourFourTwo magazine's legendary Season Preview issue which can be ordered here.

Arsenal have begun talks to sell an academy star, as they look to bring in Vinicius Jr from Real Madrid.

The Gunners are looking to pull off arguably the most ambitious move in their history by landing the Brazilian superstar, with FourFourTwo understanding that Arsenal's owners have agreed to smash their wage structure to sign Vinicius.

But there will have to be sales this summer in return, as the North Londoners look to balance the books – with one particular Hale End star for the chop.

Arsenal have engaged in talks to sell Ethan Nwaneri

Journalist Carlo Pellegatti has revealed via MilanNews that “talks have taken place and are at an advanced stage” to send Ethan Nwaneri to RB Leipzig, with a buy-back clause set to be included.

Nwaneri's breakthrough came in the 2024/25 season as an understudy to Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka – but following the acquisitions of Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke, the 19-year-old has seen a lot less game time, leading to a loan move to Marseille in January.

Nwaneri was sent to the south of France with a view to being a key starter under Roberto De Zerbi, but with the Italian's leaving the Stade Velodrome acrimoniously shortly after, the teenager ended up playing just nine times in Ligue 1, with successor Habib Beye only using him sparingly.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta recently claimed after a preseason rout of Girona that Nwaneri's difficulties at l'OM would “help him a lot in his career” – but seemingly opened the door to him returning to the first team when he commented that he “looks like a different man”.

Incredibly, Nwaneri received a Premier League debut before the 2022 World Cup to become the division's youngest-ever player at just 15 years old, with Arsenal showing him from a young age that there was a pathway to the first team during a time when the likes of Manchester City and Chelsea were angling for his signature.

Indeed, the wonderkid wouldn't actually compete directly with Vinicius if he joined, given that he primarily operates from the right, as a no.10 or at false nine: though Nwaneri represents a player who could attract a big fee if he moved on.

The North Londoners' record sale is still Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who moved to Liverpool in 2017 for around £35 million – and while Arteta's tenure has seen success in selling academy prospects such as Folarin Balogun, Joe Willock, Emile Smith Rowe and Eddie Nketiah, Nwaneri could be the biggest sale yet, given his age, potential, current low salary and contract situation.

The England youth international and fellow Hale Ender Myles Lewis-Skelly signed long-term extensions last summer, to keep them contracted at the Emirates until 2030.

With fellow teen sensation Max Dowman also breaking through at the moment and looking to collect minutes in the same positions as Nwaneri – and Madueke a far more established prospect still getting up to speed in N5 – Arsenal may well be resigned to having to balance out their squad in terms of who can play in that right half-space, given that Eze, Mikel Merino and Kai Havertz have all been the preferred as options to deputise for Odegaard in the past 12 months.

Nwaneri is worth €35m, as per Transfermarkt. Arsenal play Coventry City on the first day of the Premier League season.

Leeds are set to miss out on the signing of a long-standing player of interest after it emerged Premier League rivals Fulham have moved into advanced negotiations.

According to a report from Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg, the Cottagers are closing in on an agreement to bring 22-year-old Southampton man Shea Charles to Craven Cottage.

Talks between the two clubs are said to be around a transfer fee of approximately £25 million, with personal terms not thought to be an issue.

Leeds miss out on Shea Charles signing

Leeds have had a long-held interest in the Northern Ireland international and are understood to have identified Charles as a main target to bolster their central midfield options.

However, the Saints hierarchy consistently held firm, turning down a succession of bids from Elland Road insisting on their £25 million valuation.

The reluctance to meet Southampton's price has seemingly allowed Fulham to step in and seize control of the race to sign the highly-rated youngster.

Charles’ tactical versatility and domestic background has made him a coveted player in this window.

Having developed within Manchester City’s youth system before joining Southampton in a £10.5 million deal in 2023, the midfielder qualifies as a homegrown player.

His composure, press-resistance, and defensive work-rate saw him emerge as a key performer on the south coast.

Manchester City are said to have retained a 15 per cent sell-on clause during his initial sale, meaning the reigning Premier League champions will collect a portion of the incoming £25m fee.

While Charles would have been happy to end up in West Yorkshire, moving up a division in the process, the prospect of immediate top-flight football under Fulham manager Alvaro Arbeloa has swung negotiations in the West Londoners' favour.

Fulham are now expected to finalise personal terms, meaning Leeds will be forced to pivot to alternative options to bolster their engine room before the deadline passes.

The Whites, however, are still on track to secure the signing of fellow homegrown star and ex-Manchester City academy graduate James Trafford.

Nottingham Forest went into the 2025-26 season on a high, having finished seventh the year before and qualified for Europe for the first time in 29 years. It didn't take long for things to unravel.

Nuno Espirito Santo was sacked just three games into the season, and what followed was a comedy of errors.

Another two permanent managers came and went (Ange Postecoglou lasted eight matches, Sean Dyche 25 matches) as Forest battled relegation. Survival was eventually sealed by gaffer number four, Vitor Pereira, courtesy of an impressive fightback in the spring.

Oliver Glasner must steady the Nottingham Forest ship and get the club back into Europe and trophy contention

The recipe for success under the (second) former Wolves manager was based around unshackling Morgan Gibbs-White. Forest's talisman bagged nine goals in 10 league games under Pereira and deserved as much credit as anyone for the club's strong finish. Far more admirable was Forest's European form, as Brian Clough's old club rolled back the years.

Beating the likes of Porto (twice) and Fenerbahce, they reached the Europa League semi-finals, where they ultimately lost to Aston Villa. The sparkling form of Igor Jesus was crucial to that progress. Supporting Evangelos Marinakis' Forest is never dull, though, with Pereira sacked this summer, and replaced by Oliver Glasner. Most fans would settle for managerial continuity and a mid-table finish in 2026-27. It's hard to feel certain of either of those outcomes.

The Coach

Oliver Glasner held talks with Milan this summer after opting to call time on two-and-a-half years with Crystal Palace, so his decision to join Forest, who finished one place below the Eagles, was a surprise. How things go could depend on his relationship with the owner.

Key Player (and Top Scorer)

Morgan Gibbs-White, 26, is so central to Forest – creative, relentless in the press and increasingly deadly, scoring 15 league goals – that his World Cup squad omission bordered on a shock.

The Englishman bagged 18 goals in all competitions for his side, the most from any individual at the club. Forest supporters will be praying he avoids more horrific facial injuries this term.

Last Season's Results

PREMIER LEAGUE: 16th

FA CUP: Third Round

LEAGUE CUP: Third Round

EUROPA LEAGUE: Semi-final

Lessons From Last Year

Consistency is key. For the second year running, and despite having several different managers, Forest largely used the same back five in the Premier League as long as they were available: keeper Matz Sels behind Ola Aina, Murillo, Nikola Milenkovic and Neco Williams.

That quintet, screened by Elliot Anderson and Ibrahim Sangare, were crucial to the Tricky Trees conceding fewer goals than Liverpool and Bournemouth, and just one more than third-placed Manchester United.

While it was a season to forget in front of goal, Forest had the joint eighth-best defence and that's ultimately what kept them in the division.

Most Likely To...

Rotate elsewhere. Only relegated West Ham (32) used more players than Forest (31) last term.

Least Likely To...

Bask in mid-table serenity. In the club's four seasons back in the top flight, they've finished 16th, 17th, 7th and 16th. So, expect Forest to either push for Europe or be mired in a battle for survival.

View From The Stands

Words by: LEE CLARKE @redsidetrentpod

Last season was certainly memorable. The first club to have four managers in a Premier League season also reached the Europa League semi-finals, while finishing 16th. Turbulent.

The big talking point is whether we can actually keep one manager for the whole season.

Our key player will be Morgan Gibbs-White. We have to keep him. He got 18 goals and seven assists in the league and Europe last year. We can't replace him and Elliot Anderson in the same summer.

The active player I'd love to have back is Anthony Elanga.

The opposition player I'd love here is Jarrod Bowen. It's unrealistic, due to his elite quality, but he'd be an amazing fit for our system.

The opposition player who grinds my gears is Bruno Fernandes. The bloke is like a petulant kid who has been told he can't have the last Rolo!

Fans think our owner is determined, passionate and a little crazy – but his heart is in the right place.

The pantomime villain will be Sean Dyche, if any top flight side is mental enough to take him on. If not, it'll be Frank Lampard due to his Derby links.

The best thing about matchdays at our ground is The Nav. It's a brilliant boozer with top-notch beer, a football quiz and a barbecue on site.

A social media account to follow is @wt_analysis – he recently got himself a job in football, based on his brilliant data on all things Nottingham Forest.

We'll finish in the top 10.

Fixtures

AUGUST

22 Leeds (H)

29 Liverpool (A)

SEPTEMBER

5 Tottenham (H)

12 Aston Villa (A)

19 Coventry (H)

OCTOBER

10 Crystal Palace (A)

17 Arsenal (H)

24 Ipswich (A)

31 Brentford (A)

NOVEMBER

7 Man City (H)

21 Bournemouth (A)

28 Chelsea (H)

DECEMBER

2 Hull City (A)

5 Brighton (H)

12 Sunderland (A)

19 Everton (H)

26 Man United (A)

30 Newcastle (A)

JANUARY

2 Fulham (H)

6 Hull City (H)

16 Man City (A)

23 Bournemouth (H)

30 Chelsea (A)

FEBRUARY

6 Brentford (H)

10 Fulham (A)

20 Man United (H)

27 Everton (A)

MARCH

3 Newcastle (H)

13 Tottenham (A)

20 Aston Villa (H)

APRIL

10 Leeds (A)

17 Liverpool (H)

24 Sunderland (H)

MAY

1 Brighton (A)

8 Crystal Palace (H)

15 Arsenal (A)

23 Ipswich (H)

30 Coventry (A)

Title Odds

Nottingham Forest to win the Premier League title odds: 500/1

FFT Verdict

FourFourTwo verdict: Nottingham Forest to finish 18th.

It could be the latter, particularly after the departure of Anderson. Glasner's arrival does give them more hope, though – if Pereira had started the season, we feared for a repeat of Wolves' slide.

This feature was written in June as part of FourFourTwo magazine's legendary Season Preview issue which can be ordered here.

Manchester United have reached an agreement to offload goalkeeper Altay Bayindir to La Liga side Celta Vigo, according to a recent transfer report.

The 28-year-old Turkish international is set to complete a season-long loan move to Spain after finding first-team opportunities limited at Old Trafford.

Celta Vigo manager Claudio Giraldez has reportedly identified Bayindir as his primary target to strengthen his goalkeeping options and provide direct competition for Andrei Radu.

Manchester United duo set to depart on loan

The two clubs are said to have agreed on terms for the loan deal, with documentation and medical checks set to be finalised before Bayindir formally joins up with his new team in Spain.

Bayindir arrived at Manchester United in September 2023 from Turkish giants Fenerbahce in a deal worth approximately £4.3 million (€5m).

However, his three years in England ultimately proved frustrating as he struggled to establish himself as a regular starter, as well as making a handful of high-profile errors.

Across his entire spell with Manchester United, Bayindir made just 17 appearances in all competitions. He spent his first two seasons primarily acting as understudy to Andre Onana, before serving in a similar backup role behind Senne Lammens.

Despite occasional opportunities, Bayindir's path to regular playing time was permanently blocked, aside from a brief period at the beginning of last season under Ruben Amorim.

The arrival of former Leeds United goalkeeper Karl Darlow on a free transfer has further demoted him in the squad depth chart. With 40-year-old veteran Tom Heaton also offering experienced cover, Bayindir is on his way out.

Meanwhile, there is a the possibility that out-of-favour striker Joshua Zirkzee will join Juventus, as per Gianluca Di Marzio.

It is suggested the player's representatives are in talks with the Italian giants, as well as club-to-club talks having been initiated.

Zirkzee joined the Red Devils from Serie A club Bologna two summers ago but has managed just nine goals in 75 appearances.

A loan move for the striker is the deal most likely to be agreed between the two clubs given Zirkzee's contract does not expire at Old Trafford until June 2029.

FourFourTwo has another bumper quiz for you and this one's for experts in English football history.

Now formed of the Premier League and the EFL, the top four divisions of men's football in England have been the basis of the professional game for generations. In nearly 140 years of history, a massive 95 teams have won at least one of the top four divisions.

There are some forgotten names in here so we've given you 15 minutes to crack through the lot. Let us know your score below.

Handpicked football quizzes we know you'll love

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The campaign highlights the broadcaster's schedule that is set to feature more than 700 live matches across major domestic and European competitions.

Titled 'LEVELS', the campaign focuses on a 60-second advert narrated by actor Matt Smith.

The multi-platform promo showcases the breadth of TNT Sports' prominent broadcast talent such as Laura Woods, Ally McCoist, Steven Gerrard, and Karen Carney.

TNT Sports are raring to go for 2026/27

Active players including Arsenal’s Declan Rice, Manchester United’s Ella Toone and Matheus Cunha, and Chelsea’s Moisés Caicedo also feature in the ad.

Created in collaboration with creative agency Brothers and Sisters, the campaign officially launches on Friday, August 7 across TV, cinema, radio, digital, and social media channels.

The upcoming season showcases TNT Sports' extensive rights portfolio, spanning the Premier League, Emirates FA Cup, Women’s FA Cup, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Conference League, and selected fixtures from Italy’s Serie A.

All coverage will be streamed on Warner Bros Discovery's new UK streaming platform, HBO Max.

TNT Sports’ live match broadcasting for the 2026/27 campaign begins on Wednesday, August 12.

The UEFA Super Cup fixture between Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain and Europa League champions Aston Villa will be broadcast live on the relevant channels.

Coverage continues on Sunday, August 16 with the FA Community Shield fixture between Premier League champions Arsenal and FA Cup winners Manchester City at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium.

Watch Chelsea vs Juventus for free as Xabi Alonso's men begin the Asian leg of their pre-season tour with a friendly against the Italian giants in Hong Kong. FourFourTwo brings you all the details on live streams and TV channels, wherever you are in the world.

Alonso has had a lively opening two games of his tenure as Blues manager, with a 6-4 win over Western Sydney Wanderers followed by a last-gasp 2-1 defeat by 10-man Tottenham Hotspur.

Both of those friendlies took place in Sydney, but Chelsea's players and staff have since relocated to Asia where they will play the next three matches of pre-season. First up is this clash in Hong Kong with Italian giants Juventus, who kept clean sheets in each of their first three games of the summer.

Read on as FourFourTwo brings you all the information you need to watch Chelsea vs Juventus online, on TV, and from anywhere.

Can I watch Chelsea vs Juventus for free?

Yes, TVNZ+ in New Zealand is broadcasting the match between Chelsea and Juventus for free.

CBS Sports Golazo Network will also show the game at no cost in the US.

You just need an account and you'll be able to watch without paying a penny.

Team News

Chelsea XI: Sanchez, Palestra, Tosin, Fofana, Hato, Nicoll-Jazuli, Caicedo, Quenda, Joao Pedro, Gittens, Welbeck.

Subs: Penders, Sharman-Lowe, Curd, Slonina, Acheampong, Subuloye, Sarr, Diakite, Anselmino, Lavia, Essugo, Watson, Walsh, Kellyman, Mudryk, Estevao Willian, Kavuma-McQueen, Neto, Satpayev, Jackson, Delap

Juventus XI: Di Gregorio, Kalulu, Gatti, Kelly, Cambiaso, Douglas Luiz, Locatelli, Miretti, Boga, Milik, Celik.

Subs: Perrin, Pinsoglio, Nava, Bremmer, Rugani, Koopmeiners, Arthur Melo, Cabal, Owusu, Gil Puche, Oboavwoduo, Licina, Durmisi, Yildiz, Zhegrova, David

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Watch Chelsea vs Juventus from anywhere

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How to watch Chelsea vs Juventus in the UK

In the UK, you will need CFC+ to stream Chelsea vs Juventus.

CFC+ is Chelsea's in-house streaming platform and is showing every Blues pre-season game. A match pass costs £9.99, or you can pay £14.99 a year to unlock all of Chelsea's remaining summer friendlies, including Chelsea vs Juventus.

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How to watch Chelsea vs Juventus in the US

Chelsea vs Juventus is available to watch on Paramount+ and the free CBS Sports Golazo Network in the US.

Paramount+ plans start at $8.99 a month and also give you access to every single Champions League game, as well as select matches in the Carabao Cup and EFL, plus much more.

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How to watch Chelsea vs Juventus in Australia

Paramount+ will be showing Chelsea vs Juventus in Australia.

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Away from Australia? Get NordVPN to access your usual Paramount+ stream.

Chelsea vs Juventus: Preview

After starting the Xabi Alonso era Down Under, Chelsea continue their breathless pre-season tour with the first of three matches in Asia as they face Juventus in Hong Kong.

While it was only a friendly, the Blues never like to lose to London rivals Tottenham Hotspur so their last-gasp defeat in Sydney last Saturday will have stung more than it should at this time of year.

Alonso's men have the chance to put that right against Juventus in the 50,000-capacity Kai Tak Stadium, where the travelling party will be joined by some notable reinforcements.

New signing Danny Welbeck and forgotten man Mykhailo Mudryk - who could play for the first time since November 2024 after his doping case was resolved - have arrived in Asia to link up with the squad, as have £40m winger Geovany Quenda and goalkeeper Mike Penders. All four players could feature against Juventus as Alonso continues to fine-tune his side ahead of the new season.

SEE ALSO Should I use a VPN to watch football?

This fixture is a meeting of two teams who missed out on Champions League qualification last season, although Juventus did at least book their place in one European competition for 2026/27.

The Italian giants will play in the Europa League next term after finishing sixth in Serie A, which was only the second time since 2011 that they have ended the campaign outside the top four.

The Old Lady have shown their age in the past few seasons and fallen behind Europe's elite, although they did finish last term in relatively good form with only one defeat in their final 12 Serie A matches.

Luciano Spalletti's men arrive in Hong Kong having won two and drawn one of their first three pre-season friendlies, beating Nice and Standard Liege after drawing with Basel, all without conceding a goal.

FourFourTwo's prediction

Chelsea 2-1 Juventus

This should be an interesting test for Chelsea, even if Juventus aren't quite the draw they once were.

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Evertonians could be forgiven for sensing a potential déjà vu this summer.

As the one-year anniversary of Everton’s official move to Hill Dickinson Stadium rapidly approaches, there is an increasingly unnerving mood by the banks of the River Mersey.

Relocating to Bramley-Moore Dock was supposed to serve as a springboard for the Toffees’ renaissance; ending decades in the doldrums that were punctuated by a now 31-year drought since major silverware last winged its way towards a royal blue jersey. Instead, this grand old club is in danger of finding itself in the Last Chance Saloon.

Moyes Mark II

When David Moyes returned to Everton, some 19 months ago, the hope was that he could finish what was started in a credible 11-and-a-half-year spell. Securing Premier League safety, while also giving Goodison Park a more fitting send-off than had appeared likely during Sean Dyche’s reign, hinted at a sign of things to come.

The Scot’s first full season back at the helm was a mixed one, although a purple patch in the final months offered Everton hopes of an outside shot at European qualification. Briefly, they also had designs on sneaking into the fifth Champions League position. But a last-gasp Merseyside derby defeat to Liverpool put the brakes on all continental dreams as they proceeded to take just two points from a potential 18 in the final six games, allowing several clubs of smaller stature and resources to leapfrog them.

Plans for a stronger follow-up campaign are already on the back foot ahead of an opening Premier League meeting with Crystal Palace, who have reaped tangible success from leaning into bold ambitions rather than shying away from them. It’s hardly uncharted territory, especially given Moyes’s longstanding moniker of ‘Dithering Dave’, yet the dream of a promising new era could be over before it has even begun.

Just shy of a decade ago, Everton’s erstwhile owner Farhad Moshiri cautioned that they had only a limited window to disrupt the Premier League’s top six order and insisted to supporters that he did not want the club to become ‘a museum’ of English football. The British-Iranian billionaire succeeded in avoiding a house of memories but replaced it with a circus as dysfunction reigned on and off the pitch throughout his premiership.

Moshiri’s scattergun approach to recruitment left the club lumbered with a highly imbalanced squad that increasingly resembled Frankenstein’s Monster with every new managerial appointment. Such was the chaotic nature of Everton’s transfer business that Dyche recently described his three full windows at the helm as ‘a s*** show’. It is difficult to escape the feeling that history may be about to repeat itself, with two of their opening three summer arrivals having already played for the club on loan last season in Merlin Rohl and Tyrique George, signed for a combined £36m.

The German midfielder’s summer return saw him tasked with plugging the right-back position in three pre-season friendlies as the search for Seamus Coleman’s long-term replacement is no nearer to fruition. An unedifying send-off for the club captain should have served as a belated wake-up call after failing to address the shortfall left by his persistent injury problems in the final years. Since his return, Moyes has put a new twist on an old classic with central defender Jake O’Brien filling the position in a move that mirrored his previous deployment of Joleon Lescott. Nathan Patterson, now the sole established right-back, has been persona non grata since being on the receiving end of a ‘playful slap’ from Dyche at a mid-season training camp over two years ago.

Everton’s issues, however, run deeper than defensive dearth as they face the task of replacing several other underfilled positions following Idrissa Gueye’s departure, four years after returning as a panacea to the holding midfield position he originally vacated in 2019. The Senegalese’s exit has been exacerbated by James Garner’s likely absence against Palace as he recovers from surgery on a groin issue diagnosed early in pre-season. Another alternative, Hayden Hackney, last season’s Championship Player of the Year, must contend with getting up to speed while adjusting to new surroundings.

Doubts over Iliman Ndiaye’s future have grown after recent speculation linking him with a move to Al-Hilal. The player who scored both the last-ever goal in a men’s game at Goodison and the first at Hill Dickinson Stadium has already made no secret of a desire to test himself in the Champions League, something which is currently out of Everton’s potential reach. Numerous unsuccessful attempts to tie Ndiaye down beyond his current summer 2029 contract expiry only serve to heighten fears that he will not be staying the course. A potential £70m fee would ordinarily arm Everton with considerable funds to rebuild, but in an increasingly inflated market, it would not stretch as far as the hierarchy, now headed up by The Friedkin Group, anticipate. It would also come at the cost of losing their most potent attacking source.

The Americans, who also own AS Roma, have been catching heat from sections of the fanbase for their lack of hands-on involvement and visibility. Nearly two years since taking the reins, head honcho Dan Friedkin is yet to grace an Everton match – home or away – with his presence; delegating assorted family members to fleetingly check on his investment. Some fans suspect their absentee overlord lacks an appetite to micromanage matters on the banks of the River Mersey in the same way he and son Ryan fixate on events in the seven hills of Rome. A ham-fisted declaration by CEO Angus Kinnear in his end-of-season programme notes of being ‘happily dissatisfied’ with the club’s current state of play did little to allay suspicions that the Friedkins are happy with maintaining the status quo of merely staying in the English top flight.

A reticence to address Moyes’s long-term future, with the former West Ham boss now in the final 12 months of the contract originally signed in January 2025, also suggests that the owners’ focus remains on keeping things ticking over. Noises around a potential extension, floated at the height of Everton’s late-season surge, have become highly subdued at a time when supporters are clamouring for a semblance of a long-term plan. As the only Premier League club without a director of football, the hunt for new faces is now dictated by a collegiate approach in which the 63-year-old is heavily involved despite a lack of certainty on whether he will be overseeing matters in the medium term.

Ending a vicious cycle of relegation dalliances was only half the battle for Everton. If they fall short on fixing basic issues this summer, the last real chance to restore one of English football’s sleeping giants to former glory risks falling by the wayside.

Known for his high-pressing, Red Bull-educated style and sharp tactical focus, 38-year-old German coach Jaissle has developed a reputation as one of the most highly-rated young bosses in top-level football - but his appointment is still a risk.

Whenever a manager takes charge of a major project, they naturally look to familiar faces - players who already understand things such as pressing triggers, defensive demands, and dressing room culture.

Once his appointment is rubber-stamped, it would be reasonable to expect Jaissle to recommend such personnel to the Newcastle hierarchy.

Seven players Newcastle might sign under Matthias Jaissle

Despite so far having had a summer in which they have been one of the Premier League's more active clubs in the market, Newcastle are still in need of targeted reinforcements throughout the side.

It is for that reason, the 'Jaissle effect' could be important during the final month of the summer window. Here are seven players who worked under Jaissle and fit Newcastle's squad requirements.

Nicolas Seiwald (Defensive Midfield)

Appearances under Jaissle: 91 (6 goals, 14 assists)

No outfield player featured more frequently for Jaissle during his trophy-laden tenure at Red Bull Salzburg than Austrian midfielder Nicolas Seiwald.

Functioning as the engine of Jaissle’s midfield diamond, Seiwald reigstered 91 appearances under the German, offering press-resistance and defensive coverage. Newcastle's midfield lacks depth in the holding role, making Seiwald a candidate to rejoin his former boss.

Gabri Veiga (Attacking Midfield)

Appearances under Jaissle: 66 (12 goals, 10 assists)

After making the switch from LaLiga to Al-Ahli, Spanish playmaker Gabri Veiga began working under Jaissle.

Across 66 matches together in Saudi Arabia, Veiga contributed 12 goals and 10 assists before joining FC Porto last summer. With Newcastle seeking a goal-scoring midfielder capable of unlocking low blocks, Jaissle could provide 24-year-old Veiga with the platform for a top-five league reboot.

Oumar Solet (Centre-Back)

Appearances under Jaissle: 66 (2 goals, 4 assists)

Jaissle’s aggressive, high-line defence at Red Bull Salzburg relied heavily on recovery speed and composure of his central defenders, of which Oumar Solet was one.

Featuring 66 times under Jaissle, Solet knows how to play in his backline that routinely dominated domestically and competed admirably in the Champions League. With Newcastle needing long-term athleticism and ball-playing quality at centre-back, Solet fits the tactical profile.

Amar Dedic (Right-Back)

Appearances under Jaissle: 52 (4 goals, 6 assists)

Bosnian full-back Amar Dedic enjoyed his breakout under Jaissle at Salzburg, making 52 appearances and contributing direct to 10 goals from right-back.

His ability to invert into midfield or overlap down the right aligns with Jaissle’s tactical flexibility. Given Newcastle's need to refresh their options at full-back after Kieran Trippier's exit and Tino Livramento's persistent injuries, Dedic could be an option given he already knows the manager's demands.

Mohamed Camara (Defensive Midfield)

Appearances under Jaissle: 43 (1 goal, 5 assists)

Before earning a move to AS Monaco, Malian midfield enforcer Mohamed Camara was the defensive anchor of Jaissle’s 2021/22 domestic double-winning Salzburg side.

Playing 43 games under the soon-to-be-named Newcastle coach, Camara demonstrated excellent ball-winning capabilities as well as decent ability in possession. His tenacity in duel-heavy games would instantly bolster Newcastle's stability in the middle of the park, which is in need of some experience and steel.

Enzo Millot (Attacking Midfield)

Appearances under Jaissle: 40 (9 goals, 7 assists)

French midfielder Enzo Millot worked closely with Jaissle at Al-Ahli, making 40 appearances and registering 16 direct goal contributions.

Millot’s tactical nous, exhibited whilst still in Ligue 1, and pressing energy make him a coach's dream in a high-intensity transitional system. Newcastle's squad would benefit from his quality between the lines.

Karim Konate (Centre-Forward)

Appearances under Jaissle: 10 (5 goals, 2 assists)

Ivorian striker Karim Konate made his initial top-flight breakthrough under Jaissle at Salzburg, netting 5 goals and laying on 2 assists in just 10 appearances.

Despite that limited sample size before the manager's departure, Konate showed good goalscoring efficiency that foreshadowed his more recent rise as a top striking talent in a mid-tier European league.

While bringing in Jaissle’s trusted former players makes sense on paper, fans would be wise to temper expectations of an instant transformation.

Moving on from almost five years of stability under Eddie Howe marks a significant structural shift, leaving a dressing room very much in a state of flux and notably lacking in natural on-pitch leadership. That will be a responsibility that Jaissle himself must bear while adapting to the demands of English football.

Rebuilding a squad in transition is rarely as simple as importing a cluster of familiar faces. While players like Seiwald, Veiga, or Solet know Jaissle’s style, few will arrive with an immediate grasp of the unique weight, culture, and expectations that come with representing Newcastle or a Premier League club.

Recruiting players who know the manager's playbook can certainly help with tactical implementation, but assembling a reshaped squad under a head coach who is still figuring out the club for himself is a delicate process.

Signing Jaissle's former players may well prove the evolutionary route Newcastle take in 2026/27 and beyond, but it is by no means a guaranteed blueprint for instant success.

It's time for the latest FourFourTwo Quickfire Quiz! Can you answer 10 football trivia questions in just 90 seconds?

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FourFourTwo has many more football quizzes courtesy of Kwizly. First up, we have this colossal challenge to name 100 players from the clubs where they've played football in our latest career path quiz.

Our Big World Cup 2026 quiz will test your detailed knowledge of the latest major summer football tournament. Let's find out how much you can remember about the competition in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

We also want to know whether you can name all of these footballer autobiographies from their titles alone and every Premier League player nominated for the Ballon d'Or since 2000.

If you know your numbers, you'll have no problem naming the top 100 goalscorers in the history of the Premier League.

Last but not least, we want you to guess these team line-ups based on the nationalities of their players alone. Make no mistake; this is expert-level stuff.

We have puzzles too. Our Weekend Crossword is a regular football teaser for your Sunday, and don't forget to sign up to the newsletter for more quizzes in your inbox. Don't forget to join The Club for free additional membership benefits!

Liverpool are looking at alternatives to Bradley Barcola after their initial conversations with PSG over a transfer came to nothing.

The Reds are keen to add a winger to their side after Mohamed Salah's departure earlier this summer, with new arrival Victor Munoz still unproven at the very elite level.

To that end, Liverpool have made a €100m (£85.6m) overture to PSG, only to be told they will need to pay nearly twice that much if they want to get their hands on the France international.

High Bar

However, Liverpool's opening bid is still a lot of money even for a financial powerhouse like PSG, particularly for a player who has been in and out of the side over the years.

Barcola was part of the PSG side that won back-to-back Champions League titles this year and last, but did not start in either final with Luis Enrique instead plumping to start Desire Doue and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia for the 5-0 win over Inter in 2025 and the penalty shootout victory over Arsenal in May.

Now the Reds are looking to test Les Parisiens' resolve by quietly letting it be known that they considering their options elsewhere.

The Guardian reported last week that Liverpool were intent on making Barcola their 'statement signing of the summer'.

But subsequent reports have suggested that PSG have indicated they want a deal in the region of £140m-£145m if they are to allow Barcola to depart.

Caught Offside claim that Liverpool have numerous potential options in mind already, among which are Brighton's Yankuba Minteh and Lille's Matias Fernandez-Pardo.

Bournemouth's Rayan is also touted as a possibility. The 20-year-old Brazil international moved to the Vitality Stadium to play under Iraola in January and made an immediate impression with five goals and two assists in his 15 Premier League appearances.

The hitch there is that Rayan cost Bournemouth £24.7m in January, and they now already believe he is worth several times that figure.

Rayan is said to have an £85m release clause in his contract, but it has been suggested that it does not activate until next year, handing Bournemouth an advantage in negotiations for the time being.

While it would obviously be sensible for Liverpool to look at other options if they feel a move for Barcola may not be possible, it is just as plausible that their apparent willingness to move on from the Frenchman could be a way to entice PSG to return to the table and find an acceptable compromise.

Aston Villa have had to go to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to be allowed to register a foreign player... despite him being an England youth international born in England.

FIFA did not allow Aston Villa to register 17-year-old Brian Madjo to their squad when they signed him from French side Metz in January for a £10m fee.

That's because although he was born in Enfield, he was largely raised in Luxembourg and came through the academy ranks in the country before moving to France to finish his football education.

Are you Madjo

It's a strange thing to say about the world governing body at the moment, but FIFA's block was entirely built around sensible rules around child protection.

FIFA Article 19 forbids the international transfers of players aged under 18 other than in limited circumstances, including moves between EU member states - and of course, the UK is no longer an EU member. Madjo, having made three friendly appearances for Luxembourg before switching to England, did not help Villa when they initially pleaded their case to FIFA.

However, though they have not yet published their reasoning, CAS seems to have decided that while Madjo's case did not fit neatly into any of FIFA's exceptions, the circumstances were compelling enough to decide in Villa's favour and allow him to be registered to Unai Emery's squad for the season ahead.

A club statement said: "Aston Villa can confirm that the club’s appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport regarding the registration of Brian Madjo has been upheld.

"17-year-old Madjo signed for the club from Metz in January. Born in Enfield, London and a UK citizen, he left England at a young age and was raised in Luxembourg but has been unable to play due to FIFA‘s rules on the international transfer of minors.

"The striker has scored four goals in pre-season so far, including two in the opening friendly fixture against Walsall.

"The court’s decision today means that Brian will be registered as an Aston Villa player and eligible to play in official competition matches for the forthcoming season."

Madjo's teammates found the funny side on social media, with John McGinn replying: "English player allowed to play in England #freemadjo", much to Matty Cash's evident mirth.

Madjo has been playing for Villa in pre-season, with the ban only applying to official competitive games.

Being able to register the hot prospect will come as welcome news to the club, who would otherwise have been unable to use Madjo in senior games until he turns 18 in January.

They can now count Madjo among their number when plotting out their squad depth for the season ahead.

A new era is underway at Anfield again. After Arne Slot's two-year reign was ended following a miserable campaign with 19 defeats in all competitions, Andoni Iraola has been charged with reinstalling the attacking identity demanded by Reds fans.

Iraola's Bournemouth certainly displayed that quality. The Basque manager delivered an aggressive, progressive style, utilising quick, direct wingers, a high defensive line and pressing in attack.

Did somebody say “Jurgen Klopp”? Kopites are hoping for Klopp-like football, having grown frustrated by Slot's slow build-up and passive play. Iraola's message to Liverpool fans upon arrival was upbeat, capturing the imagination: “I can only say I want to become one of you; to earn the right to belong.” That's been enough to restore optimism after a difficult year.

It's the dawn of a new era at Liverpool, and Andoni Iraola must restore a lost hope

However, they will be a different proposition with the departures of Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate – a key trio not just on the pitch, but around the club.

New leaders need to step up, because nine players from the title-winning squad of a little over a year ago have already left.

Nobody expects a title challenge in Iraola's maiden season, but a return to more attractive football and clear signs of an identity will be needed, and fast.

The lack of a trophy on his managerial CV, or experience coaching in European competition, are both concerns.

The Coach

Andoni Iraola is only the 22nd Liverpool manager in 134 years, which shows that it was no easy decision to part ways with Slot so soon. But Iraola offers the exciting football that fans missed, while his Basque roots mean he can understand the city's outsider mentality.

Key Player

Virgil van Dijk is 35 now, yet he played every league minute in 2025-26, then went to the World Cup. With Giovanni Leoni (19) and inexperienced new signing Jeremy Jacquet (21) alongside him, and Ibrahima Konate gone, the Dutchman's experience will be vital.

Last Season's Results

PREMIER LEAGUE: 5th

FA CUP: Quarter-final

LEAGUE CUP: Fourth Round

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE: Quarter-final

Top Scorer

Hugo Ekitike was Liverpool's top goalscorer last year, with 17 strikes in all competitions.

That figure is a stark drop-off from the 30-40 goal campaigns produced by Salah from 2017-2024.

Ekitike is sidelined with injury until likely 2027, and whoever the Reds' top scorer is this year will surely have to produce a haul that exceeds that of the Frenchman in 2025-26.

Lessons From Last Year

There are many: using the squad better, getting the most of Florian Wirtz in a settled role, fewer ready excuses such as an inability to defend long throws and set pieces.

Arguably, the biggest lesson Iraola can take from Slot's reign is using the power of Anfield. Liverpool made slow starts too often under the Dutchman, reflected in their conceding first in 14 league games last season.

They lacked attacking impetus, which sapped the energy of the crowd, and the two couldn't thrive off each other. “For me,” says Iraola, “football is about emotions – about passion.” Those inside Anfield would agree.

Most Likely To...

Be involved in a 5-4 thriller. Think Klopp's first campaign, when the German's glasses were lost in the celebrations at Norwich. Iraola's first year could be as entertaining.

Least Likely To...

Shut up shop defending set pieces. Liverpool (20) and Bournemouth (18) had the worst record for goals against from dead-ball situations in the Premier League last season.

View From The Stands

Words by: JACK LUSBY @LusbyJack

Last season was deeply overshadowed by an unbelievable tragedy. Diogo Jota's death had a lasting impact on not only his team-mates, but the coach and his staff.

The big talking point is the decision to sack Arne Slot. Even with the serious mitigating factors, it was necessary – his decline had begun with the side's shocking display in the 2025 Carabao Cup Final.

This season will be different because Andoni Iraola has breathed new life into the support.

I won't be happy unless proper, attacking football returns to Anfield. You'd be surprised how many struggled to sit through Liverpool games last year.

Our key player will be Virgil van Dijk. World class. Look out for 19-year-old centre-back Giovanni Leoni. After nine months out, it's easy to forget his immense talent. He tore his ACL on debut and was still man of the match.

Fans think our owners are OK. FSG get plenty wrong but they usually rectify it eventually.

The departing player I'm saddest about is Andy Robertson or Mo Salah. Both should still be at the club – and would be, had things changed sooner.

A social media account to follow is the academy (@LFCAcademyX). There's a wealth of talent coming through or being signed.

Our biggest grudge match will be against Arsenal. They're the most unlikeable champions in a long, long time. Those games will be attacking football vs anti-football.

We'll finish 3rd.

Fixtures

AUGUST

23 Newcastle (A)

29 Nott'm Forest (H)

SEPTEMBER

5 Ipswich (A)

12 Fulham (H)

19 Bournemouth (A)

OCTOBER

10 Man City (H)

17 Brentford (A)

24 Brighton (H)

31 Arsenal (H)

NOVEMBER

7 Crystal Palace (A)

21 Man United (H)

28 Everton (A)

DECEMBER

2 Sunderland (H)

5 Chelsea (A)

12 Leeds (H)

19 Tottenham (H)

26 Hull City (A)

30 Aston Villa (A)

JANUARY

2 Coventry (H)

6 Sunderland (A)

16 Crystal Palace (H)

23 Man United (A)

30 Everton (H)

FEBRUARY

6 Arsenal (A)

10 Coventry (A)

20 Hull City (H)

27 Tottenham (A)

MARCH

3 Aston Villa (H)

13 Ipswich (H)

20 Fulham (A)

APRIL

10 Newcastle (H)

17 Nott'm Forest (A)

24 Leeds (A)

MAY

1 Chelsea (H)

8 Man City (A)

15 Brentford (H)

23 Brighton (A)

30 Bournemouth (H)

Title Odds

Liverpool to win the Premier League title odds: 11/2

FFT Verdict

FourFourTwo verdict: Liverpool to finish 3rd.

Life without Salah could benefit the collective, if handled correctly. Iraola's methods suit most of the Reds' squad, fitness depending, although bungeeing back to the title is likely too much to ask.

This feature was written in June as part of FourFourTwo magazine's legendary Season Preview issue which can be ordered here.

Across his spells at Larnaca, Mirandes, Rayo Vallecano and Bournemouth, streakiness has always been a hallmark of Andoni Iraola’s sides – but most of them will tell Liverpool fans that if he gets off to a bad start, he can still prove to be well worth the wait.

In Cyprus, Iraola had Larnaca in fine form in the Europa League qualifying rounds and started the league campaign well, only to hit a run of just one win in nine games in all competitions that cost him his job.

At Mirandes in the Spanish second tier, it was the other way around: Iraola’s side won just one of their first ten games, but then lost just five of their next 33 games.

Streaky clean

That included going on an impressive run to the semi-finals of Copa del Rey, claiming three top-flight scalps from Celta Vigo, Sevilla and Villarreal along the way – but the return to action after the covid-enforced stoppage to the season saw Mirandes finish the season with a run of two wins in nine games and fall out of play-off contention.

Iraola stayed in the Spanish equivalent of the Championship the following season, this time with Rayo Vallecano, and the streakiness continued: three wins from the first four was followed by just two wins in the next eight before they rallied and achieved promotion via the play-offs.

His most extreme start of all came at Bournemouth in 2023. With Iraola installed as Gary O’Neil’s successor, the Cherries didn’t win any of their first nine Premier League games under Iraola, with a 3-0 defeat to a troubled Everton side who had scarcely started the season a particular lowlight.

Much of the criticism was aimed not at Iraola, but at Bournemouth, who were heavily criticised for having made the change in the first place. The Telegraph tipped them for the drop, accusing the club’s decision to replace O’Neil as an act of ‘self-mutilation’ after he had led them away from relegation the previous season.

And who inflicted the defeat in that ninth league game of Iraola’s tenure? O’Neil’s Wolves, of course. The pressure was now on.

But tellingly, the Bournemouth board kept the faith – and despite their awful results, Iraola’s style was already starting to draw a ‘well, actually’ reaction from analysts.

They pointed out that Bournemouth had been handed the toughest opening fixtures of any side in the division – they also faced Liverpool, Tottenham, Chelsea, Brighton and Arsenal in the run – and yet ranked in the top half on their pressing stats and were consistently getting touches in the opposition box. The implication was that this was a side still adapting to a difficult but potentially rewarding style of play.

Bournemouth fans were generally still on board, too, citing the trickiness of that run, a spate of injuries, late arrivals in the transfer market, and some genuinely excellent passage of play at Anfield and against Tottenham as reasons to stay behind Iraola.

That faith proved to be well-placed. Bournemouth won eight of their next ten Premier League games, with Manchester City the only side to beat them. Not only that, but Bournemouth claimed those wins in style, scoring three against Sheffield United, Nottingham Forest, Fulham and away to Manchester United.

Then came a seven-game winless run, followed by a run of four wins in five games that essentially confirmed a mid-table finish was on the cards.

That first season set a pattern for Iraola’s Bournemouth, who continued to veer back and forth between long unbeaten runs and much more underwhelming periods.

Just consider last season: second in the table after losing just one of their first nine – and they deserved to get something out of that opening-day defeat to Liverpool, in truth.

Bournemouth didn’t win at all in November or December, and lost star man Antoine Semenyo to City in the January transfer window – only to finish the season with an 18-game unbeaten streak that included just slightly too many draws for them to pip Liverpool to Champions League qualification.

Those who watched Bournemouth closely will tell you they often played scintillating stuff.

The Cherries were, for this writer, the most entertaining side in the division for much of the past two seasons, and those poor spells very much felt like the inevitable result of Iraola playing an ultra-intense modern gegenpressing style without having the squad depth required to sustain it at its best over an entire season.

Liverpool should be able to provide that, but whether they actually will or not is another question.

It is clear that the squad needs work, particularly in defence; and for as much as the players who served under Jurgen Klopp are likely to embrace Iraola’s similar style, Liverpool still look from the outside like a club going through a belated transitional period.

The expectation on Iraola will be much higher than it was on the Dorset coast, and yet more winless runs like the ones they suffered through under Arne Slot last season would not go down at all well.

There is real potential for Iraola to end up being made into the fall guy for several years of weird transfer business at Liverpool – but if his prior track record is anything to go by, a bit of patience could go a long way.

Leeds are in a good place. That isn't something you could have written in many FourFourTwo Season Previews over the course of this century.

Elland Road's redevelopment is at the shovels-in-ground stage. The team consolidated their place in the top flight. And, this summer, the club tied 25-year-old captain and talisman Ethan Ampadu to a new, long-term contract.

As with every recently promoted side in the modern Premier League era, the objective is the same in season two: stay up. In a ruthless division, second-season syndrome can kill teams who start to have ideas above their station.

Will Leeds suffer second-season syndrome, or secure continued Premier League football once more?

The last time Leeds were in this build on the success of their first season back in the big time, which set in motion a slide back into the Championship. It can't be allowed to happen again. Minority partners then, 49ers Enterprises are now in full control, with deep pockets that are deepened further still by commercial partnerships with the likes of Red Bull.

Transfer market savvy remains key, however. Noah Okafor, Anton Stach and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, in particular, were all resounding successes in last summer's squad reshape, with an emphasis placed on physicality. In order to maintain the momentum built in the second half of 2025-26, Leeds will need to execute their squad-building goals efficiently once again.

The Coach

Plenty feared that Daniel Farke couldn't keep a team in the Premier League, having twice failed to do so with Norwich, but – helped by a fuller budget and a defiant Elland Road – he proved his doubters wrong. He has now challenged the club to match his ambition to push on.

Key Player

The most important cog in the Leeds machine is 63-cap Wales international Ethan Ampadu. Leading by example and ready to fly into a tackle at any time, he is just what Leeds fans want in a captain, not least for his cone-headed promotion party antics. He's one of them.

Last Season's Results

PREMIER LEAGUE: 14th

FA CUP: Semi-final

LEAGUE CUP: Second Round

Top Scorer

Dominic Calvert-Lewin bagged a respectable 15 goals in all competitions for the Whites last season.

At one stage, the (very narrow) possibility of him breaking Jamie Vardy's consecutive games-with-a-goal streak was even being discussed.

Lessons From Last Year

If it's not working, change it up. With Leeds losing 2-0 at half-time at Manchester City in November, Farke shifted to a back three – a system he hadn't used in his first two seasons at the club.

They got back to 2-2 before conceding in injury time but, more importantly, this heralded a tactical setup that made Leeds harder to beat.

Across the 30 matches in all competitions that followed Farke's epiphany, Leeds lost only six times. They pulled away from relegation, and the manager's willingness to change tack won over doubters. Keeping key players fit was vital as other teams' form forced Leeds to finish strongly. And so they did.

When they travelled to West Ham on the final day, clear of relegation, Farke's charges were unbeaten in eight. His pragmatism had paid off.

Most Likely To...

Have the best-smelling manager in the Premier League.

Least Likely To...

Shoot from range: Calvert-Lewin, who took 13 of his 14 goals from between the posts, inside the box.

View From The Stands

Words by: JOE MEWIS @joemewis

Last season was defined by the half-time switch at Manchester City, when Daniel Farke was staring down the barrel. A superb second half of the season was his reward for leaving behind what had been a rigid tactical approach.

This season will be different because the top half is our goal now.

Our key player will be Ethan Ampadu, for his tenacity and leadership.

The active player I'd love to have back is Raphinha, now that James Milner has finally called it a day.

The opposition player I'd love here is James Trafford. One of England's best goalkeepers has been wasted sat on the bench at Man City.

Look out for additional scrutiny on the academy pipeline. For the first time, Leeds didn't award Young Player of the Year due to a lack of candidates. The hierarchy were vindicated in signing experienced players, but reigniting the historically superb youth setup, producing players ready for the first team, needs to happen.

The one change I'd make at our club would be our dire modern-day record at Wembley. Even a goal would be nice.

The ground I'm least looking forward to visiting is the Emirates. Arsenal were the only side to truly have our number last season.

The fans' opinion of the gaffer is at an all-time high. A win at Old Trafford and first FA Cup semi-final in a generation were the icing on the cake of a stress-free climax.

We'll finish 11th.

Fixtures

AUGUST

22 Nott'm Forest (A)

29 Brentford (H)

SEPTEMBER

5 Brighton (A)

12 Newcastle (H)

19 Crystal Palace (H)

OCTOBER

10 Arsenal (A)

17 Man United (H)

24 Sunderland (A)

31 Bournemouth (A)

NOVEMBER

7 Tottenham (H)

21 Chelsea (A)

28 Coventry (H)

DECEMBER

2 Man City (A)

5 Ipswich (H)

12 Liverpool (A)

19 Fulham (H)

26 Aston Villa (A)

30 Hull City (A)

JANUARY

2 Everton (H)

6 Man City (H)

16 Tottenham (A)

23 Chelsea (H)

30 Coventry (A)

FEBRUARY

6 Bournemouth (H)

10 Everton (A)

20 Aston Villa (H)

27 Fulham (A)

MARCH

3 Hull City (H)

13 Brighton (H)

20 Newcastle (A)

APRIL

10 Nott'm Forest (H)

17 Brentford (A)

24 Liverpool (H)

MAY

1 Ipswich (A)

8 Arsenal (H)

15 Man United (A)

23 Sunderland (H)

30 Crystal Palace (A)

Title Odds

Leeds United to win the Premier League title odds: 500/1

FFT Verdict

FourFourTwo verdict: Leeds to finish 14th.

Leeds' top-seven form following Farke's tactical switch-up hints that they can look up rather than down. New boy Harry Wilson could add goals – they've also needed to address the goalkeeping situation.

This feature was written in June as part of FourFourTwo magazine's legendary Season Preview issue which can be ordered here.

Hull City's 2025-26 campaign saw one of the most impressive promotions in Championship history – but it was also one of the most fortuitous.

Finishing sixth and winning the play-offs was an unbelievable accomplishment. Hull had needed to climb out of the relegation zone on the final day of the previous campaign, then had to work under a summer embargo that restricted them to loans and free transfers.

They found an attacking gem in each market, in Joe Gelhardt and Oli McBurnie respectively. Existing squad members found a new level. The Tigers became a dangerous team under boss Sergej Jakirovic – new to the club and new to English football – and won games through their ability to ruthlessly cut open opponents in isolated moments. But there's no escaping that they had some luck on their way up.

Hull City's return to the Premier League borders on the miraculous, but an even greater feat will be required to stay up - Hull City 2026-27 season preview

To win promotion despite conceding the joint-fourth-most goals in the division is one thing, to do it with easily the second-worst underlying defensive numbers is unheard of. As such, the existing template doesn't look sufficient for Premier League survival.

So, while fans are hugely excited about returning to the big time, they are also realistic about the challenges ahead. Hull can pay fees to sign players now, but they'll need to add wisely. Still, everybody said that about Sunderland, and they survived. Jakirovic has proved a fast learner – could another shock be in store?

The Coach

Sergej Jakirovic almost always delivers, from handling weighty expectations at Dinamo Zagreb to saving Kayserispor from a perilous situation. The Premier League is a different beast, but the Bosnian did adapt and adopt a less risky setup during last season to upset the odds.

Key Player (and Top Scorer)

Hull played a dangerous game of waiting on Las Palmas to be relegated in 2024-25, hoping it would enable them to sign Oli McBurnie.

They did, and the 30-year-old became Hull's focal point. His 19 goals in all competitions were the most from any Hull City player last season, and included the play-off final winner.

The Scot's hold-up play will be pivotal as his side adapt to the physicality of the English top-flight.

Last Season's Results

CHAMPIONSHIP: 6th

FA CUP: Fourth Round

LEAGUE CUP: First Round

PLAY-OFF: Winners

Lessons From Last Year

While several players contributed significantly in attack, defensively Ivor Pandur, John Egan and Regan Slater kept everything together. Pandur made the most saves in the Championship, although he's since joined Rangers.

Egan and Slater will remain key, having held down the defence and midfield almost single-handedly at the times when Charlie Hughes and Matt Crooks weren't available.

Most Likely To...

“F**k them up, get into them!” – Hull averaged the most tackles per game in the Championship (17.8), with 14 players making more than two per 90 minute. Sharing their ground with rugby side Hull FC, their aggressive style could work in their favour on a rugged terrain.

Least Likely To...

Fret the stats. Hull looked ropey in many metrics last year and were lectured by nerds like us on their performances' unsustainability, only to prove them totally wrong. Nobody gives them a chance this season – that resultant siege mentality can be their superpower.

View From The Stands

Words by: RICKY SKELTON @hullcitylive

Last season was a huge surprise. We were under transfer restrictions, had a manager new to English football and had avoided relegation on final day in the previous season, but we put together a team on frees and loans who had a huge amount of heart and no little quality.

Our key player will be Oli McBurnie. From the moment he walked in last summer, he raised standards and performed superbly. He epitomises the squad's spirit and it's crucial we don't lose that.

This season will be different because we've not had to deal with the killjoy that is VAR before.

The opposition player who grinds my gears is Gabriel Magalhaes, the big baby. He can give it but not take it.

The opposition player I'd love here is Rio Ngumoha. This kid is incredible. He's only 17, so if Liverpool want him to get a season of Premier League football under his belt, Hull City have looked after some of their great prospects in recent years.

Our biggest grudge match will be against Leeds. It will be our first top-flight meeting – in our previous five seasons in the Premier League, Leeds were normally in League One or something.

The fans' opinion of the gaffer is that Sergej Jakirovic is a legend. He arrived last summer with no experience in England, nor any leading European league, and has proven to be extremely competent, both tactically and with his man-management.

We'll finish 17th.

Fixtures

AUGUST

22 Man United (H)

29 Coventry (A)

SEPTEMBER

5 Aston Villa (H)

12 Chelsea (A)

19 Newcastle (A)

OCTOBER

10 Everton (H)

17 Fulham (A)

24 Brentford (H)

31 Ipswich (H)

NOVEMBER

7 Arsenal (A)

21 Brighton (H)

28 Crystal Palace (A)

DECEMBER

2 Nott'm Forest (H)

5 Bournemouth (A)

12 Tottenham (H)

19 Man City (A)

26 Liverpool (H)

30 Leeds (H)

JANUARY

2 Sunderland (A)

6 Nott'm Forest (A)

16 Arsenal (H)

23 Ipswich (A)

30 Crystal Palace (H)

FEBRUARY

6 Brighton (A)

10 Sunderland (H)

20 Liverpool (A)

27 Man City (H)

MARCH

3 Leeds (A)

13 Aston Villa (A)

20 Chelsea (H)

APRIL

10 Man United (A)

17 Coventry (H)

24 Tottenham (A)

MAY

1 Bournemouth (H)

8 Everton (A)

15 Fulham (H)

23 Brentford (A)

30 Newcastle (H)

Title Odds

Hull City to win the Premier League title odds: 500/1

FFT Verdict

FourFourTwo verdict: Hull City to finish 20th.

The squad is weak for the level and owner Acun Ilicali is ambitious but not mega-rich by Premier League standards. Even if last season's poor performance data is noisy, improving enough will be difficult.

This feature was written in June as part of FourFourTwo magazine's legendary Season Preview issue which can be ordered here.

Compared with their promotion in 2024, Ipswich return to the Premier League stronger in some ways, but weaker in others.

Pound-for-pound, the Tractor Boys should be a closer match for this level. They've got a stronger squad on paper, as well as the banked revenue that increases their spending capacity. However, in terms of cohesion and synergy, Ipswich are less of a sure bet.

Town come up off the back of a lower base performance level in the Championship than they did two years ago, with fewer established partnerships across the park. Most importantly, they no longer have one of the most exciting young British managers around, in Kieran McKenna.

Ipswich return to the Premier League as quickly as they fell from it; this time, can they survive the drop?

The 40-year-old is taking a break from football to spend time with his family, and leaves a legacy that puts him just one rung below Sirs Alf Ramsey and Bobby Robson in the pantheon of great Ipswich managers.

Gary O'Neil comes in fresh from a decent short-term job at Strasbourg, having previously delivered Premier League survival with Bournemouth and Wolves.

Much of Ipswich's rise has been attributed to McKenna's work, with the improved structure at the club given secondary praise. Is that structure strong enough to ensure this bright era can outlast a great manager?

Can 2026-27 be a continuation of a pre-existing era, rather than the start of a new one? We're about to find out.

The Coach

A promotion winner as a player with rivals Norwich in 2015, Gary O'Neil follows Marcelino Nunez in switching farms. He has shown much promise in his coaching career to date, but hopes Portman Road might be the first place at which he can build something of substance.

Key Player

Dara O'Shea was ever-present and instrumental in Ipswich's reliability in 2025-26. A smart defender, he grew as a leader and, at 27, will be desperate to put Premier League survival on his CV following relegation with three different clubs. Fourth time's the charm, Dara…

Last Season's Results

CHAMPIONSHIP: 2nd

FA CUP: Fourth Round

LEAGUE CUP: First Round

Top Scorer

Jack Clarke bagged 16 in all competitions for his side last season, but will that translate into Premier League goalscoring proficiency?

Lessons From Last Year

Systems are more important than individuals. Ipswich had supremely gifted footballers, but collectively didn't play quite as well as they did with a squad built in League One.

Take Sindre Walle Egeli. Though he outscored Erling Haaland at youth level in Norway, he is yet to shine since Ipswich bought him at 19 for a Championship-record fee.

Because Jaden Philogene or Jack Clarke claim the creative freedom on the left, the right-sider must offer positional discipline and industry. Kasey McAteer and Wes Burns fit the bill better than Egeli.

The individualism of Philogene or Clarke also meant the No.10 had to drop into midfield. Marcelino Nunez does that brilliantly.

And so, Town's vast array of second strikers couldn't show their own qualities. O'Neil must decide who gets free rein, and who is providing balance.

Most Likely To...

Get Ed Sheeran singing The A Team in the dressing room if they survive.

Least Likely To...

Get Ed Sheeran singing Bad Habits in the dressing room if they don't.

View From The Stands

Words by: PHILIP HAM @twtduk

Last season was slow at first, with some ups and downs to follow, but ultimately fantastic.

This season will be different because Town should be better set up for survival now, with new infrastructure, additions to the recruitment team and a squad that's more attuned to this level.

Our key player will be Azor Matusiwa, our midfield linchpin.

The active player I'd love to have back is Tyrone Mings, to bring experience to the squad.

The best thing about matchdays at our ground is the fanzone on the practice pitch behind the West Stand – a great place for fans to warm up before the game.

The one change I'd make at our club would be a new Cobbold Stand, as the current structure is over 50 years old. That's the next big project.

The ground I'm least looking forward to visiting is St James' Park. Newcastle is a long way from Ipswich and we've not won there since 1984.

A social media account to follow is Call Me Ted (@callmeteditfc), who commissioned posters for all of our Premier League games the last time we were here, and continue to produce interesting football-based art.

The fans' opinion of the gaffer is underwhelmed. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was the fans' preferred option. While following McKenna is an almost impossible job, O'Neil needs a good start to allay concerns.

We'll finish... who knows? We'd be happy with 17th.

Fixtures

AUGUST

22 Sunderland (H)

29 Man United (A)

SEPTEMBER

5 Liverpool (H)

12 Crystal Palace (A)

19 Everton (A)

OCTOBER

10 Fulham (H)

17 Man City (A)

24 Nott'm Forest (H)

31 Hull City (A)

NOVEMBER

7 Bournemouth (H)

21 Tottenham (A)

28 Aston Villa (H)

DECEMBER

2 Coventry (A)

5 Leeds (A)

12 Newcastle (H)

19 Brighton (A)

26 Brentford (H)

30 Chelsea (H)

JANUARY

2 Arsenal (A)

6 Coventry (H)

16 Bournemouth (A)

23 Hull City (H)

30 Aston Villa (A)

FEBRUARY

6 Tottenham (H)

10 Arsenal (H)

20 Chelsea (A)

27 Brighton (H)

MARCH

3 Brentford (A)

13 Liverpool (A)

20 Crystal Palace (H)

APRIL

10 Sunderland (A)

17 Man United (H)

24 Newcastle (A)

MAY

1 Leeds (H)

8 Fulham (A)

15 Man City (H)

23 Nott'm Forest (A)

30 Everton (H)

Title Odds

Ipswich Town to win the Premier League title odds: 500/1

FFT Verdict

FourFourTwo verdict: Ipswich Town to finish 19th.

O'Neil could be an upgrade, but it's a big gear change from McKenna's quiet consistency to his outspoken interviews and streaky teams. The big question is if Town's very solid second-tier defence can step up.

This feature was written in June as part of FourFourTwo magazine's legendary Season Preview issue which can be ordered here.

Real Madrid clearly do not subscribe to football’s adage about never going back.

Second honeymoons are a common occurrence for Real Madrid, with 13 of the 52 managers appointed as either interim or permanent hires in the club’s 116-year history afforded returns, some multiple times. Nearly half of that figure, including the likes of Carlo Ancelotti and Zinedine Zidane, did so across the previous three decades alone.

Such romanticism is particularly on brand for a club nicknamed ‘La Casa Blanca’ with a familiar face back in the Bernabeu’s dugout considered more of a hallmark than a habit.

A third 'do-over' for the Special One

Jose Mourinho is the latest beneficiary of a homecoming in the Spanish capital, 13 years after his original spell ended in acrimony. Attempting to finish what he started is a recurring pattern in the Portuguese’s coaching career, with Madrid becoming the third club he has managed more than once after do-over spells with Benfica and Chelsea.

Still, it was a move which raised eyebrows, just months since clashing with his former employers over the alleged racist abuse of Vinicius Junior by Gianluca Prestianni in the second leg of February’s tempestuous Champions League knockout round play-off tie.

Even before that controversy, little love had been lost during Mourinho’s near decade-and-a-half away. His Bernabeu afterlife became a source of derision as much as intrigue. In 2018, fresh from Manchester United’s Champions League exit to Sevilla, Madrid-based daily sports newspaper MARCA likened him to ‘a washed-up rock star, one of those guys who goes around holiday hotels for pensioners, playing old hits on an organ with the base and percussion playing on a tape recorder’. As similes go, there have been fewer more damning for the now sexagenarian ‘Special One’.

Los Blancos witnessed the beginning of his villain arc and, arguably, its most volatile state in a three-year period where just one LaLiga title and a Copa del Rey constituted major silverware. Unlike the redux periods of Ancelotti and Zidane, president Florentino Perez staked a successful re-election campaign on lightning not striking twice with the two-time European champion’s second coming as he is again tasked with halting Barcelona’s latest period of domestic dominance.

But the signs already appear ominous. The Catalans cantered to last season’s title with an eight-point cushion which would have reached double figures had Hansi Flick’s side not taken their foot off the gas in two of the final three games after seeing off their arch-rivals in the latest El Clasico meeting. Confidence remains high that they can secure further bragging rights against Madrid with the teams all-square on 106 victories apiece in their regular contests while Barca could soon equal, and even overtake, their foes’ previously unparalleled haul of 105 major honours after moving to within two with their 29th title success.

Mourinho, meanwhile, inherits a squad devoid of confidence and discipline as evidenced by the unedifying end of Xabi Alonso’s brief tenure and a stumble to the finish line with his interim replacement Alvaro Arbeloa. The advancement of Father Time also has done little to dim his abrasive tendencies which reared an ugly head in his first spell. High-profile fallouts with Cristiano Ronaldo, Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos pockmarked the end of that tenure as he openly lampooned Perez’s vision for a team of ‘Zidanes y Pavones’, mixing stars such as Zidane with homegrown talents like Paco Pavon. In one fractious press conference, he savaged youngster Pedro Leon – one of Pavon’s successors as inferior to both ‘Zizou’ and Diego Maradona.

Hindsight suggests that Mourinho would have done well to endear himself to a more impressionable crop of players instead of an already powerful dressing room clique. A cursory glance at Madrid’s early summer business follows a similar theme to that dynamic with Bernardo Silva, newly minted World Cup winner Marc Cucurella and Ibrahima Konate among the strong personalities that Mourinho will need to bring on side at their Valdebebas training base. There is also the small matter of ingratiating himself with Vinicius after suggesting he had provoked the racist abuse he routinely suffers, even if the imminent arrival of Yan Diomande has seemingly put the writing on the wall for the Brazilian’s long-term future.

He is, at least, hoping a break from some old habits will avoid past mistakes. Mourinho has already turned down a formal media unveiling, which previously guaranteed a box-office entrance and soundbites aplenty. Shunning the flashbulbs has seen him instead working diligently on the training pitches with the club’s less established players while their household teammates were toiling at the World Cup earlier this summer.

The only utterances that Madridistas have heard from their new manager came in the form of a bite-sized social media clip on the club’s official channels during which he insisted ‘Words aren’t enough, because this feels like a mission. This isn’t about me or whether I win, more or less. I’m here to help everybody become better.’

Mourinho knows that Madrid will be his last big job in elite-level management, having only attracted offers from Roma, Fenerbahce and Benfica after his last spell in the Premier League ended in all-too-familiar fashion five years ago. Failure is not an option but he is likely to have little choice with the deck already stacked against him.