All posts by rastrear-estafeta.com

Leeds United took another step towards the top two places in the Championship with a convincing 3-0 win over Coventry City at Elland Road on Saturday.

The Whites have now recorded successive wins without conceding a goal, having beaten Cardiff City 2-0 in their previous match, and are one point behind Blackburn Rovers in second place.

Daniel Farke is looking to plot a promotion to the Premier League for the third time in his career, having won the division twice with Norwich City, after his side failed to get out of the second tier last season.

The West Yorkshire outfit finished third in the Championship, just behind Ipswich Town and Leicester City, and went on to lose 1-0 to Southampton in the play-off final at Wembley in May.

That was in their first year back in the league after they were relegated from the Premier League in the 2022/23 campaign, under Sam Allardyce, who had arrived in the dugout after Javi Gracia and Jesse Marsch were both dismissed.

That relegation from the top-flight came after a number of pieces of poor recruitment by former sporting director Victor Orta but things could have gone differently for him, had he signed the centre-back Leeds reportedly wanted before they landed Diego Llorente.

Diego Llorente's Leeds career

In the summer of 2020, the Whites reportedly splashed out a fee of around £18m to sign the Spanish central defender from Real Sociedad to bolster Marcelo Bielsa’s backline.

At the age of 27, Leeds ended up signing an experienced centre-back who did not have much room left to develop and grow in value during his time at Elland Road.

His first season with the club was disrupted by multiple injuries. The former LaLiga ace missed 23 matches in all competitions for club and country with groin and hamstring issues, which limited his involvement on the pitch for Bielsa.

He only made 15 appearances in the Premier League in the 2020/21 campaign, winning 57% of his defensive duels, as Leeds avoided relegation back to the Championship.

Llorente did avoid any major injury blows in his second season at Elland Road, however, as the Spanish defender went on to play 28 games in the division under Bielsa and Marsch.

Appearances

8

Sofascore rating

6.68

Dribbled past

4x

Error led to goal

2

Clean sheets

1

As you can see in the table above, the former Real Sociedad star endured a dreadful start to the 2022/23 campaign under Marsch in the first half of the season.

He made more errors that directly led to goals for the opposition than clean sheets won in his eight appearances, which led to a loan move to Roma during the second half of the season – as Leeds were relegated from the division.

Llorente spent 18 months on loan with the Italian giants before Real Betis swooped to sign him for a reported fee of £2.5m this summer – a significant loss on the £18m Leeds paid for him.

Whilst the Whites made a huge loss on the Spanish flop, things could have been so different for the club if they had landed Josko Gvardiol instead.

Leeds United's pursuit of Josko Gvardiol

Following on from the promotion from the Championship under Bielsa in the 2019/20 campaign, Orta looked to bolster the squad with a host of new signings.

The likes of Raphinha and Robin Koch arrived, alongside Llorente, but the West Yorkshire outfit were also reportedly eyeing up a deal for Gvardiol that summer.

At the start of September in 2020, Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano claimed that Leeds were close to reaching an agreement with Dinamo Zagreb to sign the versatile central defender.

The Daily Mail then went as far as to say that the club were ‘set to sign’ the 18-year-old starlet from the Croatian outfit for a fee of around £17.6m.

Unfortunately, however, the Whites were unable to get a deal over the line for the centre-back and he went on to sign for RB Leipzig in Germany a year later instead.

Gvardiol later revealed, in an interview with The Athletic, that Leeds sent representatives to map out a plan for him at Elland Road but he decided that it was not the right time for him to make the move to the Premier League, which is why he joined Leipzig instead.

Josko Gvardiol's current market value

The left-footed star, who was described as the “Haaland of defenders” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, is one that got away for Leeds because his value has soared since Orta attempted to sign him for less than £18m in 2020.

In the summer of 2023, Premier League champions Manchester City swooped to sign the versatile star for a reported fee of £77.6m, after an impressive time in Germany with Leipzig.

The central defender, who has operated in an inverted left-back role for the Cityzens, made huge progress during his spell in the Bundesliga, as shown by his rise in value from almost £18m to £77.6m.

This shows that Leeds missed out on potentially making a huge profit on Gvardiol, as they could have brought him in and helped the youngster to develop into a significant asset – as Leipzig did.

The Croatia international played 87 matches in two seasons with the German outfit. This shows that they offered the youngster plenty of opportunities to shine and thrive, which then allowed him to catch the eye of Manchester City ahead of the 2023/24 campaign.

Pep Guardiola has since used him in 51 matches in all competitions since the start of last season, including in all six Premier League matches this term, which shows that the Spanish head coach trusts the 22-year-old ace.

Appearances

28

Goals

4

Pass accuracy

88%

Tackles + interceptions per game

3.0

Duel success rate

60%

As you can see in the table above, Gvardiol enjoyed an impressive debut season in the English top-flight for City, scoring four goals in 28 matches and winning the majority of his physical duels.

It is a huge shame that the defender ultimately decided not to sign for Leeds for £17.6m as he has turned into an elite defender, whilst their alternative signing – Llorente – plummeted in value during his time in England.

£12m wasted: Farke must sell Leeds man who earns more than Gnonto

The Whites loanee must be ditched from the squad in one of the next two transfer windows.

1 ByDan Emery Sep 25, 2024

Eden Hazard joined Chelsea in 2012 after the Blues lifted their first Champions League title. The Belgian signed from Lille for a fee of around £32m, one that would later look like an absolute bargain with what he was about to achieve at the club.

The superstar winger went on to make 352 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions, scoring 110 goals, providing 85 assists, and totalling 26,967 minutes played for the club. In this time, Hazard won two Premier League titles, two Europa League titles, one FA Cup, and one League Cup, among a plethora of individual awards such as Footballer of the Year.

Hazard was known for his elegance on the ball, skipping past his men, making something happen out of nowhere, and providing those magical moments in a game that got everyone out of their seats, and this is something Chelsea have been lacking since losing their prized possession.

Since the Belgian departed Chelsea back in 2018, joining Real Madrid for a fee of around £88.5m plus add-ons, the Blues have been trying to replace their star man, with countless attacking signings, and they just might have done that now, with a signing they made on deadline day in 2023.

Cole Palmer's record at Chelsea

Chelsea signed Cole Palmer from Manchester City for around £40m plus £2.5m add-ons, signing a seven-year deal with the Blues, with an option for a further year.

Ahead of joining, Palmer had made a combined 58 appearances for City’s academy, scoring 42 goals and providing 19 assists. He had also made 41 appearances for City’s first team, totalling 1,483 minutes, scoring six goals and providing two assists.

Since joining Chelsea, the 22-year-old has been in astonishing form, making 54 appearances, scoring 31 goals and providing 20 assists. He has also earned himself nine England caps now, scoring two goals, with one of those being in the Euro 2024 Final, coming from the bench to equalise against Spain before losing the game 2-1.

Palmer’s impressive first campaign for Chelsea earned him multiple individual awards, including England Player of the Year, becoming the first Chelsea player to win the award since Ashley Cole in 2010 after scoring 25 goals and providing 15 assists in 45 appearances.

Goals

0.65

0.71

Assists

0.36

0.60

xG

0.63

0.67

xAG

0.38

0.58

Progressive Carries

4.02

3.64

Progressive Passes

6.77

7.12

Shots Total

3.50

3.21

Goals/Shot

0.12

0.19

Key Passes

2.47

3.48

Shot-Creating Actions

5.57

5.91

Successful Take-Ons

1.79

1.06

It seemed like it would be impossible for the Englishman to keep going at the rate he was, but he has taken it even further, as you can see from his metrics so far this season compared to last.

His output per 90 minutes has risen, his progressive carries are slightly down, but his progressive passes are slightly up, and he is producing more for his teammates, with 3.48 key passes and 5.91 shot-creating actions per 90.

Playing in a central zone now, more often as the number ten, Palmer is able to drift, link play, and help with build-up. Allowing his full skillset to shine, whilst not hampering the elite output he was giving the side last season under manager Mauricio Pochetinno.

The 22-year-old has finally filled the boots Hazard left back in 2018, but with their impressive youth-led transfer strategy, they could even have another Hazard replacement, with this “elite talent” as called by scout Jacek Kulig. He could even be more exciting than Palmer…

In The Pipeline

Football FanCast's In the Pipeline series aims to uncover the very best youth players in world football.

Chelsea's next Hazard

Chelsea managed to sign Estevao Willian from Palmeiras for an initial fee of around £29m, fighting off the likes of Barcelona, Manchester City and PSG who were all in the fight to sign the Brazilian superstar. The young winger has made 38 appearances for the Brazilian outfit’s senior team, scoring 11 goals, and providing eight assists. Considering he’s still only 17 years of age, he looks like a real future star.

The left-footed right-winger has already made a name for himself, debuting for the Brazil senior national team in September, becoming the second-youngest player in history to debut for Brazil since 2000, behind only Real Madrid superstar Endrick.

Chelsea may have done it again here, and the Brazilian can easily co-exist with Palmer, as Estevao plays on the right, whereas Palmer has now found himself in a more comfortable number ten position under Enzo Maresca.

Neymar has even named Estevao a “genius” after comparisons to him for his spell-binding Hazard-like dribbling ability.

Chelsea now have the prospect of lining up with Palmer alongside Estevao in the future, and forming one of the most devastating duos in world football to help guide the Blues back to the pinnacle of the game, winning the most prestigious awards possible.

Goals

0.49

0.71

Assists

0.34

0.60

xG

0.35

0.67

xAG

0.29

0.58

Progressive Carries

4.93

3.64

Progressive Passes

3.45

7.12

Shots Total

3.50

3.21

Key Passes

1.63

3.48

Shot-Creating Actions

5.37

5.91

Successful Take-Ons

3.20

1.06

Estevao is five years younger than Palmer, and is already close in many metrics, even bettering him in some. Of course, this has external factors such as the quality of opposition, but the fact the 17-year-old Brazilian can achieve these metrics at such a young age is impressive in itself.

With an ability to beat players at his own will – much like Hazard – completing 3.20 successful take-ons per 90, completing 4.93 progressive carries per 90, and then delivering the desired quality at the end of these actions with 1.63 key passes and 5.37 shot-creating actions per 90, these two superstar talents are sure to get the best out of one another at Chelsea.

All of that is without even mentioning Kendry Paez, who was signed from Independiente del Valle in 2023, for around £17.27m, but we will leave that for another day.

Chelsea wasted £113m on Tuchel flop who earned more than Palmer & Madueke

This Chelsea flop earned more than Palmer and Madueke combined

ByConnor Holden Oct 11, 2024

Leeds United will be hoping to fight their way into the top two in the Championship when they play host to Plymouth Argyle at Elland Road on Saturday.

The Whites have drawn three of their last five games in the division and will be looking to bounce back from their disappointing 0-0 draw at Bristol City last time out.

Largie Ramazani missed out through injury and the other forwards in the team failed to step up to score the goals for Daniel Farke, as Wilfried Gnonto and Dan James were selected on the flanks in his absence.

Scoring goals has not been a major issue for the West Yorkshire outfit this season, though, as they have found the back of the net 19 times in 12 games.

Only Sunderland (23) and Norwich City (22) have scored more goals than Farke’s side, which shows that he has created a potent and exciting attack at Elland Road.

They are now preparing to take on a Plymouth side that are currently one place above the relegation zone and have conceded 22 times in 12 games.

Their head coach, though, certainly knows a thing or two about scoring goals, as they are managed by former Premier League icon Wayne Rooney.

Wayne Rooney's goalscoring records

The former Derby County and Birmingham boss enjoyed a stunning career and established himself as a legend for both Manchester United and England.

He did hold the record for the most goals in England history, with 53 goals in 120 caps, but has since been overtaken by Harry Kane’s haul of 68 goals in 100 caps, which shows that the forward was an elite goalscorer at international level.

During his time with Manchester United, Rooney racked up a staggering 253 goals and 139 assists in 559 matches in all competitions for the Red Devils.

The English ace, who played as a centre-forward or a second striker for the majority of his playing career, consistently provided quality in the final third as both a scorer and a creator of goals.

Along with plenty of goals and assists, Rooney also collected his fair share of trophies throughout his career. He won five Premier League titles, one Champions League, four League Cups, and one FA Cup with United.

Whilst he may not go on to achieve the amazing success that Rooney did at club and international level, Leeds have an emerging talent brewing who could be their own version of the England legend in Mateo Joseph.

Mateo Joseph's academy form for Leeds

The Spanish striker, who previously played for England at youth level before declaring for Spain, joined the Whites in January 2022 from Espanyol’s academy.

He had a slow start to life in the country, with a return of two goals in 11 academy matches, in the second half of the 2021/22 campaign before hitting his stride in his first full season with Leeds.

In the 2022/22 term, Joseph caught the eye with a superb return of 16 goals and two assists in 21 appearances in the Premier League 2 for the U21 side as a centre-forward.

He showcased his ability to find the back of the net on a regular basis at youth level in the academy for Leeds and earned himself three Premier League appearances off the bench for the first-team that term, as Leeds were relegated to the Championship.

U23 scout Antonio Mango hailed him as a “wonderful” player and a “major talent” after his performances for Spain and Leeds at U21 level, with four goals in four caps for Spain’s U21s, after a return of three goals in ten matches for England’s U20s.

His form for club and country at youth level earned him a chance in the senior squad under Farke in the 2023/24 campaign, and he showed promise in his limited minutes on the pitch.

All 20 of his appearances in the Championship last season came as a substitute, scoring one goal in that time, but he did score twice at Stamford Bridge as a starter against Premier League giants Chelsea in the FA Cup.

This term, however, Joseph has emerged as a genuine starting-calibre centre-forward for Leeds and is emerging as a huge prospect for the club, at the age of 21.

Mateo Joseph's form this season

The Whites have their own version of Rooney brewing at Thorp Arch as the 21-year-old sensation has showcased his quality as both a scorer and a creator of goals in the Championship.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast's Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Like the England legend, Joseph is a powerful and aggressive striker who likes to hold the ball up and get involved in play, by holding off defenders and finding teammates with passes, whilst also scoring goals.

Whilst he does not have the bulky build that Rooney was known for, the clip below illustrates how well the academy graduate uses his body to get the better of experienced defenders.

That was one of the two goals that the Spanish youth international has plundered for the West Yorkshire outfit in the Championship this season, to add to the one he managed last term.

Whilst he has not been a prolific scorer at senior level, yet, his aforementioned form for the academy suggests that the potential is there for him to eventually develop into a lethal goalscorer for Leeds.

Appearances

12

Starts

8

Goals

2

Big chances created

4

Assists

3

As you can see in the table above, Joseph has also showcased his creative quality in a Whites shirt this season in the Championship, with four ‘big chances’ created in eight starts.

This shows that the attacker is unselfish and looks to constantly get other players involved in the final third, hence why he has already registered three assists in the second tier.

Joseph, therefore, has the potential to develop into a complete centre-forward due to his pace, physicality, goalscoring potential, and creative quality, with plenty of time for him to fulfill his potential at the age of 21.

Leeds could move on from Solomon by unleashing "immense" star in new role

The Leeds United star has thrived in an attacking role for his country this season.

ByDan Emery Oct 29, 2024

This is why Leeds may have their own version of Rooney brewing in Yorkshire, ahead of the legendary forward’s trip to Elland Road on Saturday.

While Wolverhampton Wanderers manager Gary O’Neil may be under pressure after a poor start to the current Premier League season, he might have confidence that the players in his squad can turn things around.

Matheus Cunha, Rayan Ait Nouri and Joao Gomes all have the talent to help turn the tide in the Old Gold’s favour, but are there a couple of youngsters ready to make the step-up to the big time?

One player is certainly being talked about more than the others – Alfie Pond.

Why Alfie Pond could be the next big thing at Wolves

The 20-year-old centre-back is already being discussed as the next academy player who could make the breakthrough for the first time at Molineux, having already made his debut in the EFL Cup this season.

He spent six months on loan at Stockport County in League Two, making nine senior appearances for the club, allowing him to secure some vital experience ahead of his return to Wolves.

While the club may have lost against Brighton during his senior debut, his performance was impressive. Indeed, the youngster finished the game having averaged a 91% pass success rate along with winning 100% of his total duels contested and making two tackles.

Not bad for a 20-year-old thrust into a losing team.

Touches

62

Accurate passes

51/56

Total duels (won)

3 (3)

Tackles

2

Possession lost

6

Interceptions

0

The future is certainly bright for Pond, who may be used more often as the season progresses, especially if injuries engulf the first-team squad.

Although the centre-back is highly rated among the staff at the Old Gold, is there another talent who could become even more important for the Midlands side?

In The Pipeline

Football FanCast's In the Pipeline series aims to uncover the very best youth players in world football.

Leo Lopes is another one to watch out for.

Leo Lopes’ youth statistics this season

The 19-year-old winger has plenty of attractive traits which could make him an ideal option to be used in the future by O’Neil, especially his eye for goal.

During his stint at GC Zurich, Lopes scored nine goals in 29 matches at both U19 and U21 levels, while he has already found the back of the net once for Wolves U21 this term, along with registering two assists.

He played 17 minutes in the Football League Trophy clash against Wrexham earlier this month. With little time to make an impression, the winger managed to make two key passes and won 50% of his duels. He even managed a dribble attempt in that time, but it was unsuccessful.

“Leo is an exciting attack-minded player who can operate on either wing,” said head of UK academy recruitment, Harry Hooman, upon his arrival at the club.

“He makes things happen with his ability and athleticism in one v one situations. He is also prepared to do the other side of the game and shows good intensity and desire to defend out of possession.”

While Pond may prove himself to be a dependable option in the heart of the defence in the years to come, it is the likes of Lopes who could well spark real excitement at the top end of the pitch for the Old Gold.

Pond has already made the breakthrough into the senior setup. Will Lopes be the next player to follow him? Only time will tell.

Wolves have a dream Kilman replacement in "quality" star who's out on loan

Wolves could have their new Max Kilman

ByJoe Nuttall Oct 18, 2024

Chelsea are reportedly ready to agree an astonishing exit in 2025 as they look to streamline their squad and challenge for major honours once more.

Caicedo rescues Chelsea at Old Trafford

A late volley from record-signing Moises Caicedo rescued a point for Chelsea against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday. Bruno Fernandes had put the Red Devils into an arguably undeserved lead with 20 minutes to go when Robert Sanchez conceded yet another penalty, bringing down Rasmus Hojlund and allowing Fernandes to convert from 12 yards.

Alongside Caicedo: Chelsea star who won 11 duels was vital vs Man Utd

Caicedo wasn’t Chelsea’s only key performer at Old Trafford on Sunday.

ByConnor Holden Nov 4, 2024

But Caicedo provided a quick response, firing home from a corner four minutes later to rescue a point for Enzo Maresca’s side and cap a great display from the midfielder, leaving them fourth in the Premier League as both Arsenal and Aston Villa (5th and 6th) lost.

But there are still problems at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea's midfield issues

One of the Blues’ biggest issues at present is midfield balance, with Enzo Fernandez, Caicedo and Romeo Lavia all competing for two spots in midfield at Stamford Bridge. Maresca revealed his view on the situation ahead of the clash with Manchester United.

“First of all, it’s a matter of balance. In this moment, Romeo [Lavia] and Moises [Caicedo] give us physicality, strength in the middle.

“Otherwise, when we play with Enzo, it has to be Enzo with one of Moises and Romeo. Then, when Enzo moves [forward], we struggle a bit in the middle in terms of physicality. It is something that at the moment, Moises and Romeo give us.”

With little chance of Maresca moving away from his 4-2-3-1 system, especially given the attacking talent at his disposal in west London, it has left Chelsea’s £107m World Cup winner used from the bench in their last three games, having fallen down the pecking order.

Chelsea with and without Enzo Fernandez

With Enzo Fernandez

Without Enzo Fernandez

Games

66

21

Win %

35%

81%

Loss %

39%

14%

Goals scored per game

1.6

2.48

Goals conceded per game

1.55

1

His talent is undeniable, with Graham Potter hailing him a “fantastic” midfielder and Premier League analyst EBL dubbing him “truly special” on X. However, it isn’t working for him at Stamford Bridge at present.

Chelsea ready to cash in on Enzo

Now, an astonishing report from Spain [via TEAMtalk] has claimed that Chelsea are ready to cash in on Enzo Fernandez in the coming transfer windows,

The club hierarchy see the lack of minutes for the 23-year-old as a “cause for concern” and “it’s believed Chelsea would be open to listening to offers for the midfielder in the summer” as they look to claw back some of their investment.

Fernandez is still under contract at Stamford Bridge until 2032, taking home £180,000 a week which has counted up to over £7m since his signing, and finding someone willing to take that financial burden off Chelsea may be easier said than done.

Real Madrid have been linked with a move for the Argentine in the past, and could look to renew their interest should he become available, perhaps in a swap deal of some kind involving Aurélien Tchouaméni, who is said to be up for sale on their side. For Chelsea, though, it will be another expensive bust at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea have entered pole position to sign a highly-rated player who’s now looking to leave his club in the very near future, with Stamford Bridge seen as a very viable destination once we reach 2025.

Chelsea looking at signing new centre-forward with January bid possible

Nicolas Jackson’s sensational start to the new season, and the presence of Christopher Nkunku off the bench, hasn’t stopped high-ranking Blues transfer chiefs from looking at bringing in a prolific new striker.

Chelsea now prepared to meet £50m asking price to sign Premier League star

Chelsea are “willing” to meet the financial requirements to do a deal.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Nov 16, 2024

Jackson boasts nine goal contributions from his opening 12 matches in all competitions, scoring six goals and assisting three others, while Nkunku’s bagged 10 strikes overall – even if the vast majority have come in the Carabao Cup and Conference League.

Chelsea have goals coming from all over their front line, with Cole Palmer scoring seven in the Premier League alone, but it remains the belief that BlueCo are considering the signing of a new number nine after missing out on Victor Osimhen in the summer.

Leicester City (home)

November 23

Aston Villa (home)

December 1

Southampton (away)

December 4

Tottenham (home)

December 8

Brentford (home)

December 15

Osimhen’s failed move to Chelsea on deadline day left Enzo Maresca without a fresh striking option until January at the earliest, and the west Londoners are apparently considering their options for the winter in that regard.

Chelsea could still sign a striker in January, according to reliable journalist Simon Phillips, with Ipswich Town star Liam Delap, Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface, Brighton starlet Evan Ferguson, Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig and Osimhen all on their shortlist for 2025. Rumours have also circulated regarding a potential swoop for Sporting Lisbon sensation Viktor Gyokeres.

The Sweden international has been unplayable since making the move to Sporting from Coventry City in 2023, scoring a total of 66 goals in just 68 appearances – which are numbers reminiscent to that of Man City superstar Erling Haaland.

His phenomenal spell in the Primeira Liga is understandably turning heads at Europe’s biggest clubs, including Chelsea, as an update comes from Spain on Gyokeres’ future this week.

Chelsea take lead in race to sign Gyokeres

According to a Spanish media source, Chelsea have taken the lead in the race to sign Gyokeres, and it is believed the 26-year-old has his sights set on leaving the Jose Alvalade Stadium “very soon”. His contract includes an £83 million release clause, but Gyokeres apparently has a “gentleman’s agreement” that he can leave for around £67 million.

“From what I know, there’s a gentleman’s agreement between Spartan and the player to release him around 80 million euros (£67m), 70 to 80 million euros,” said Sergio Krithinas on The Transfers Podcast (via TBR).

“But that would be strange how the English clubs would sign a player like that and he was available for 24 million euros a year ago. They didn’t do it.”

The fact Sporting managed to get him on a deal that cheap must surely go down as one of Europe’s best bargain transfers of the last decade, with Chelsea now having to pay more than triple that amount after just one season.

It’s no secret that Manchester United have been home to one of the very best academies in English football over the years, producing endless talents that have had a huge impact on the beautiful game – namely the ‘Class of 92’.

David Beckham, Nicky Butt, Ryan Giggs, Phil Neville, Gary Neville and Paul Scholes were the six graduates who progressed into being key first-team players in Manchester.

The six players made over 3000 appearances for the club during their respective periods at the Theatre of Dreams, contributing to their success, which has seen them claim 20 English top division titles – making them the most successful club in the country.

Fast-forward to 2024, new boss Ruben Amorim is on the lookout for a new crop of stars to make the jump into his squad, potentially making his tenure in the Premier League a roaring triumph.

Manchester United’s U18 squad in 2024/25

Whilst the club’s first-team have failed to deliver during the opening months, leading to the sacking of Erik ten Hag, the academy side have thrived and impressed beyond any imagination in recent weeks.

During the U18 Premier League season to date, the Red Devils have played nine matches, winning all nine and sitting at the top of the table – sitting five points clear of rivals Manchester City, boasting the only unbeaten record in the division.

Their record is all the more impressive when delving into their stats, scoring 43 times in their outings – an average of 4.7 goals per game, whilst conceding just four goals in the process.

Winger James Scanlon has caught the eye, scoring nine times and registering four assists in his eight appearances, currently sitting as their top-scorer and playing a huge part in their attacking success in recent months.

16-year-old Chido Obi-Martin arrived in the summer from Arsenal, joining with high expectations after his record from 2023/24 which saw him score 32 times in 18 matches during the U18 Premier League campaign.

The Dane has already made a solid start to life in the North, registering four goals in his opening four matches, including a hat-trick on his debut against Nottingham Forest in the 6-0 victory.

However, there’s another youth prospect who could have a significant role to play under new boss Amorim, following in the footsteps of multiple current members of the 39-year-old’s squad.

The teen who could star under Amorim for Man Utd

Kobbie Mainoo and Alejandro Garnacho are two players currently plying their trade for United, making the step up from youth level to the professional game with ease.

The English man has already made his mark at international level, featuring under Gareth Southgate at Euro 2024, with Garnacho also featuring for Argentina, but also having a talismanic role in the opening weeks of 2024/25.

The 20-year-old has already registered seven goals and four assists in his opening 19 matches of the season, the most of any player in the Red Devils side.

Amorim could add another talented academy star into the mix in the coming years in the form of centre-back Godwill Kukonki, who has starred in the U18 setup despite being just 16.

He’s made eight appearances, playing a huge part in their defensive success in recent months, earning him an immediate call-up to Amorim’s squad.

In The Pipeline

Football FanCast's In the Pipeline series aims to uncover the very best youth players in world football.

Kukonki, who’s been dubbed as “incredibly exciting” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has been involved in first-team training after his appointment, even travelling with the side for the game against Ipswich Town at the weekend.

1) David Gaskell

24/10/1956

16 years, 19 days

2) Jeff Whitefoot

05/04/1950

16 years, 5 months, 15 days

3) Duncan Edwards

04/04/1953

16 years, 6 months, 4 days

4) Angel Gomes

21/05/2017

16 years, 8 months, 20 days

5) Willie Anderson

28/12/1963

16 years, 11 months, 17 days

He may have a lot of developing before he’s able to make an impact at Old Trafford, but his 6 foot 5 frame could see him develop into a key figure over the years to come in the new-look back three.

The injury crisis at the back could allow the youngster to make strides into cementing a place under Amorim, with the former Sporting CP boss evidently showing a lot of trust in the stars despite his tender age.

Their academy has been a source of solace over the years, with Kukonki having all of the tools to become a part of United’s revival under the former Portuguese international during his tenure in the North West.

Man Utd star who Solskjaer sold for just £1.2m is now on par with Fernandes

The former Manchester United talent has still demonstrated his talents away from Old Trafford.

ByEthan Lamb Nov 27, 2024

Sometimes in football, certain results feel like the end of the road is coming for an under-pressure manager.

If the pressure wasn’t already mounting on Gary O’Neil’s back after a disappointing 4-2 defeat to AFC Bournemouth, it’s certainly red-hot now, as his dire Wolverhampton Wanderers outfit folded at Goodison Park to lose 4-0 to Sean Dyche’s usually goal-shy Toffees.

This could well be the final straw for the powers that be at Molineux, with the likes of Craig Dawson letting the visitors down with a car-crash display defensively to potentially cost the 44-year-old his job.

Dawson's performance in numbers

In truth, Dawson’s 300th career game in the Premier League couldn’t have gone much worse, as the former West Ham United centre-back scored two own goals to make Everton’s win much more comprehensive.

The experienced defender would unfortunately connect with a corner and free-kick in a second-half display that left a lot to be desired from the perspective of the away side, who will travel back to the West Midlands completely shot of confidence.

Away from his two shambolic own goals, Dawson also struggled to get stuck in and stop the likes of Dwight McNeil, having only tallied up one tackle.

The below-par number 15 would somehow last the entire 90 minutes, after only lasting one half of football versus Bournemouth, but it’s unclear whether he will be a starter for Wolves’ next game in the Premier League away at West Ham – who have their own manager concerns to contend with.

Dawson wasn’t the only one who put in an abject showing at the back, however, with the display of Santiago Bueno in the heart of defence also causing mass groans in the away end at Goodison Park.

Bueno's performance in numbers

Bueno didn’t have the same cursed luxury as the 34-year-old in lasting the full contest, having been put out of his misery on the 77th-minute mark by O’Neil for Toti Gomes to get a late run-out.

He would have been thankful for that substitution as the Uruguayan was way off the pace, much like his sorry teammate in Dawson.

Stat

Bueno

Minutes played

77

Touches

59

Accurate passes

41/54 (76%)

Clearances

2

Blocked shots

0

Interceptions

0

Total duels won

3/6

Possession lost

13x

Stats by Sofascore

Looking at the table above, Bueno was equally as ropey as his seasoned defensive teammate, with possession squandered 13 times from the 26-year-old when he was still on the pitch, alongside failing to register a single blocked shot or interception.

Both Bueno and Dawson putting in these shoddy displays wouldn’t be too much of a shock to the Wolves fanbase watching on, however, who have now seen their relegation-threatened side leak an alarming 36 goals from just 14 league encounters.

Therefore, if O’Neil continues to fail in inspiring his troops to turn around their shocking fortunes, the time could be right for a fresh approach in the dug-out, with this display perhaps signalling the end of the road is here for the ex-Bournemouth manager.

Rumours had already been circling in recent weeks regarding his future – this will only add fuel to the fire.

Performance in Numbers

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Of course, the blame isn’t all with the under-fire boss, with the likes of Bueno and Co majorly off the boil, as Wolves look to pick up a positive result away at the Hammers next to cut through the doom and gloom with or without O’Neil at the helm.

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1 ByBrett Worthington Dec 3, 2024

Storm Darragh has soured Merseyside’s collective mood, but Liverpool will still sit at the top of the Premier League table by the end of the weekend.

Such is the strength of Arne Slot’s side, such is the brilliant start to the campaign that has seen Liverpool cede ground in just three of their 14 fixtures thus far.

The table-toppers will now rest and recover ahead of more gruelling action, but there’s an undeniable sense of frustration that the Reds have been prevented from righting the wrongs of midweek, enduring defensive issues in a 3-3 draw at St. James’ Park.

The Merseyside derby will have to wait and perhaps it’s for the best, in some ways. Ryan Gravenberch has been indomitable in the engine room this season but suffered from burnout against Newcastle United.

Matches (starts)

26 (12)

14 (14)

Goals

1

0

Assists

0

1

Touches*

28.8

73.8

Pass completion

83%

89%

Key passes*

0.6

0.6

Dribbles completed*

0.9

0.9

Ball recoveries*

2.8

5.4

Tackles + interceptions*

1.5

3.9

Total duels (won)*

2.8 (47%)

5.5 (63%)

He’s started every Premier League and Champions League match this season and is widely regarded as one of the highest-performing midfielders in Europe.

It’s no wonder that Real Madrid have caught his scent.

Real Madrid's interest in Ryan Gravenberch

As reported earlier this week, Real Madrid are interested in Gravenberch after the Netherlands midfielder’s stunning start to the season, making major headway since the middling results of 2023/24.

Reports of Madrid’s interest in Gravenberch serve to heighten the concerns around Liverpool’s midfield depth, and though it’s unlikely that FSG would allow the high-flying Dutchman to leave for anything other than a staggering sum, it highlights such fears all the same.

Even so, Liverpool could do with another deep-sitting option in the centre of the park, and might have found the perfect candidate to complete a robust mix of talent.

Liverpool want a new midfielder

According to Spanish sources, Liverpool are interested in signing Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong, with the intrigue arising from Los Blancos’ desire to sign Gravenberch in a mammoth deal.

This season, De Jong has been on the fringe due to an injury and consequent complications, but he has a proven record across a span of years and could certainly add a dimension to Slot’s ball-playing system.

A long-time Manchester United target, Gravenberch’s countryman would be a welcome asset to Liverpool’s first team, though whether FSG would agree to the £51m outlay is another matter.

What Frenkie De Jong would bring to Liverpool

There’s no denying that Liverpool looked a bit leggy against a roaring Newcastle side on Wednesday, and Gravenberch’s struggles really did emphasise the need for a foil.

Wataru Endo, 32, has played a bit-part role this term, and though he’s effective in late moments, combative and tough, the Japan star leaves plenty to be desired on the ball. Elsewhere, the young Tyler Morton is a part of the first-team squad but scarcely used. Gravenberch needs support.

And he could find it in compatriot De Jong, who has struggled for fitness and form this season but is known to have one of the richest passing ranges across the continent.

As per FBref, the 27-year-old ranks among the top 1% of central midfielders across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for pass completion, the top 4% for progressive passes, the top 7% for passes attempted and progressive carries and the top 20% for tackles per 90. Quite the dynamic player.

Waxing lyrical about the star’s qualities, former Barca boss Xavi said last season that he’s “one of the best players in the world.”

When fit and firing, this is true. And, moreover, De Jong would be able to assume the role that Gravenberch is playing for Liverpool. The Liverpool sensation ranks among the top 10% of Premier League midfielders this season for passes attempted per 90 and the top 19% for pass completion.

Gravenberch, like De Jong, is an adept driver, penetrating through the centre and influencing attacking transitions with slick and purposeful passing. This is crucial for Slot’s tactical set-up, allowing for sturdy and controlled central play but also providing a switch from which forward transition can be initiated with rapidity.

He’s gone from strength to strength under Slot’s wing and it’s hard to imagine that De Jong wouldn’t at least showcase some impressive qualities within the Anfield brood.

Though he’s struggled for fitness this term, starting just one La Liga fixture, De Jong has completed 224 appearances in total for the Catalan giants, notably lifting one league title and one Copa del Rey trophy.

And last season, across 20 league matches, De Jong not only completed 94% of his passes but averaged 1.1 key passes per game and came out on top in 59% of his duels, as per Sofascore.

Patently, there’s a world-class player in there who could make a real difference to Liverpool’s exploits under Slot’s management going forward.

Of course, as alluded to earlier, there’s no reason why FSG shouldn’t engineer a deal with Barcelona for the midfield maestro even if Gravenberch stays put, as will probably, hopefully, surely, be the case.

Liverpool have a demonstrable title-winning quality about them, having raced into such a commanding lead across the opening months of the campaign.

Transfer Focus

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But Gravenberch’s perceived burnout against Newcastle calls for further talent to rotate with him and allow for greater depth. Liverpool should make their move in 2025.

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ByAngus Sinclair Dec 6, 2024

Newcastle United have now tabled an offer to sign a new talented defender in January, according to a fresh report, as they look to beat Manchester City to his signature.

Newcastle looking for a new centre-back

It is no secret that Eddie Howe is keen to add another centre-back to his ranks, with the club trying and failing to land Marc Guehi over the summer transfer window.

They could yet return for the Crystal Palace defender, but there is now believed to be more interest in his services, which could make any potential move to Tyneside difficult.

Currently 12th in the Premier League, other sides are in a better position to offer the potential of European football next season, with both Liverpool and Chelsea thought to be weighing up a move for the England international.

This could force Howe’s side to pivot on their transfer targets, and they may instead look for a younger, more promising talent who would command a lesser fee than Guehi, allowing them to spend in other areas of the squad.

Abdukodir Khusanov is one player that the Magpies are considering, while they are believed to hold a long term interest in Sporting defender Ousmane Diomande.

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He could be perfect for Eddie Howe’s counter-attacking football.

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Howe is keen to add fresh faces to his side in January after he admitted that his squad needed freshness: “I think freshness is important in a squad – I won’t sit here and deny that. Sometimes, the same squad can produce a staleness and a negative product.”

Despite this, it is unclear the budget that the Magpies will have to use in the winter window, which could force them to sign some younger gems rather than established stars. Now, they may have found a potential bargain.

Newcastle make offer to sign young defender

That is according to SportItalia [Via Sport Witness], who report that Eddie Howe’s side have tabled an offer to sign Juma Bah, currently playing in Spain with Real Vallodolid.

The 18 year-old defender is on loan from Sierra Leone side AIK Freetong, and has featured 10 times for his temporary club this season, drawing plenty of admiring glances and being labelled “quality” by his side’s official X account.

Standing at 6 foot 5 inches tall, he is unsurprisingly dominant in the air, winning more aerial duels than Newcastle’s Dan Burn and winning a higher percentage of them too.

Dan Burn

Juma Bah

Appearances

15

9

Tackles and interceptions per 90

1.6

1.97

Pass Accuracy

90.4%

77.4%

Clearances per 90

4.53

6.76

Aerial Duels won per 90

3.33

4.08

Aerial duel % success

64.9%

70.7%

Manchester City are thought to be among his admirers, but Newcastle have looked to beat Pep Guardiola’s side to the punch. According to the report, they have already tabled a €10m bid to sign the defender in the January transfer window.

Any deal would involve Vallodolid having to buy Bah first, before then selling him on at what would likely be a substantial profit. However, Newcastle’s offer was not deemed substantial enough and Vallodolid “turned it down” and are “demanding more money” to let him leave.

Despite this, they are open to letting him leave in January, which could provide an opportunity for any interested party to steal a march on rival interest and land him at a potential bargain fee.