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Guglielmo Vicario joined an elite club after bailing Tottenham out in the Champions League draw as the Monaco boss, Sebastien Pocognoli, accused the goalkeeper of time-wasting. The keeper turned into an immovable wall as Spurs clung on for a gritty 0-0 draw against a dominant Monaco side. The Italian shot-stopper produced a string of outstanding saves to rescue his side from what could have been a humiliating defeat.

Heroic Vicario saves Spurs from Monaco meltdown

While the stats showed Monaco launched 23 shots at the Tottenham goal, none found their way past Vicario. And according to Squawka, the keeper kept out 2.68 expected goals and emerged as one of the four shot-stoppers to make more than eight saves to keep a clean sheet for an English side in the last 10 campaigns, following in the footsteps of Alisson Becker, Nick Pope and David De Gea. Monaco, still without Paul Pogba, threw everything at Tottenham. They pressed high, moved the ball with purpose, and flooded Vicario’s box with attacks. Folarin Balogun, the former Arsenal man, seemed destined to haunt his old North London rivals but found Vicario in inspired form. The Italian denied him three times in the opening half alone, including one fingertip save that drew applause even from the home supporters. Just before the break, he pulled off another stunning stop to keep out Maghnes Akliouche, keeping Spurs in the contest despite Monaco’s relentless assault. Four in the first half alone, followed by several more in the second, including a sensational reaction stop from Thilo Kehrer’s close-range header. Then came his crowning moment, when he made an extraordinary reflex block from Jordan Teze, diving full stretch to prevent what looked like a certain goal.

AdvertisementGetty/GOALFrank praises his keeper’s “exceptional” night

Tottenham boss Thomas Frank, who cut a relieved figure at full-time, was quick to defend his goalkeeper’s recent critics.

"I think the two goals against Villa, I don't think it's mistakes. I don't think it's any of that. It was two great finishes," Frank countered. "What I would say, I think he was very good today. I think some of the saves were exceptional. He's a big part of why we got a hard-fought point, but at the end of the day, it can be a crucial point."

For Frank, the result was as much about resilience as it was about performance.

"It was a game [with a] relatively even first half and then a second half, where I think Monaco was better than us, where we didn't hit the performance we want," he said.

"I think we lacked a bit of intensity overall in the game, especially the second half and that combined with a day where we didn't get too many players at a good enough level — that can happen. I think we are learning Champions League and every game in Champions League is difficult, especially away games against a good Monaco side. A Monaco side which I also think it's fair to say they had the best half of the season against us.

"Fair play to them and then the ability for us to compete in the Premier League and then in the Champions League is a challenge we are up for and want to. It's fair to say, last year we finished 17th and competed in Europa League, so we are taking it step by step. And it's not the worst thing on a bad day to get a point and a clean sheet."

Monaco’s frustration boils over

While Tottenham celebrated a hard-fought point, Monaco’s manager Pocognoli was left seething. The Belgian boss accused Vicario of time-wasting, claiming the keeper was deliberately slowing the game to frustrate his side.

"Vicario was outstanding, he make some great saves. He wasted also a lot of time between each free kick, long kicks," Pocognoli smiled. "He played a good game, but I think it's also because we were strong to create the chances. Good performance from him. Man of the match."

The draw leaves Tottenham 15th in the overall Champions League group rankings after three matches, with five points on the board. However, two of those games have been away, and Spurs remain unbeaten. It is something they’ve only managed once before in their opening three Champions League fixtures, back in 2017-18.

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AFPFocus shifts to Premier League action

Tottenham’s European campaign continues to gather momentum, even if their performances haven’t yet convinced the purists. Next up, they return to domestic duty with a Premier League clash against Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Sunday. Frank will be hoping for a bit more fluidity in attack after an inspired performance from Vicario saved their blushes. 

"La France, c'est vous." Translated as 'France, is you', that was what French president Charles de Gaulle told footballer Rachid Mekhloufi in 1968. Mekhloufi had just led his Saint-Etienne side to the double, and the reward was an audience with the most powerful man in the country. For Mekhloufi, this sentence brought things full circle. Now he was both Algerian and French; 10 years earlier, he had – in a sense – been neither.

Superstar in the making

At the beginning of 1958, the situation in France's colony of Algeria came to a head. After years of foreign rule, the Front de la Liberation Nationale (FLN) was pushing ever more vehemently for the independence of their country. The French military responded brutally – while at the same time, the French national team eagerly awaited the upcoming World Cup in Sweden. Two players of Algerian descent were entrenched in the squad: Mustapha Zitouni from Monaco and Mekhloufi, the superstar of reigning champions Saint-Etienne.

Like so many young football talents, Mekhloufi had once crossed the Mediterranean in the hope of a great career in Ligue 1. At the age of 17, he arrived in Saint-Etienne for a trial. "Anyone who knows anything about football can see Rachid's class from his first touch of the ball," coach Jean Snella is said to have remarked afterwards.

Mekhloufi scored three goals in his first game. From then on, the prolific playmaker became an indispensable part of the up-and-coming team. At the age of 20, he became a France international and led Saint-Etienne to the first championship title in the club's history. But at 21, he threw away his promising career and a place at the World Cup to fight for his country's independence.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesEscaping in secret

The FLN pulled out all the stops: It was no longer just soldiers who were required to fight, but also footballers – at least symbolically. Their idea was to use an Algerian national team in exile to promote independence. FLN co-founder Ahmed Ben Bella knew only too well about the power of football, having once played for Marseille himself.

In 1958, a total of 33 players of Algerian origin were under contract in Ligue 1. Organiser Mohamed Boumezra approached them on a secret mission with the question: Are you prepared to end your career in France to tour the world with an FLN selection? Many said yes, including the two most famous: Zitouni and Mekhloufi.

"It was a continuation of the struggle of the Algerians who lived under French colonial rule. It was the most effective way to show that there was a war going on in Algeria. Due to censorship in the French media, the world did not know what was happening in our country. Our action, our departure from France, showed that there was indeed a movement and that war was raging," Mekhloufi recalled decades later in an interview with GOAL, explaining his motivation for joining the FLN team.

The players' secret departure was planned for April 13 and 14, but there were complications. Mekhloufi, of all people, injured himself in what would likely to be his last game for Saint-Etienne and had to spend a night in hospital. Still in his pyjamas, he was picked up the next day and taken with three colleagues to the French-Swiss border. Instead of asking critical questions, the border police only asked for one thing: autographs.

However, it didn't take long for suspicions to arise in France. "Nine Algerian footballers missing," read the headline in April 15. Hacene Chabri and Mohamed Maouche, meanwhile, were arrested on departure and were only able to leave France at a much later date. Meanwhile, their team-mates gradually arrives at the meeting point in the Tunisian capital, Tunis, where the provisional Algerian government was based.

Travelling the world

Clubs terminated the contracts of the players involved, the French Football Federation banned them and FIFA rejected an application for membership from the FLN team and also threatened potential international opponents with consequences. Despite these complications, Mekhloufi's team played 83 matches in 14 countries over the next four years against clubs, city teams, junior sides and senior national teams, mainly from the Arab and Asian regions as well as the Communist bloc.

In sporting terms, the high-calibre team was able to take on almost any opponent. They started with victories against their recently independent neighbours Morocco and Tunisia, with the longest trips taking them to Vietnam and China. New players of Algerian origin from France joined the team over time, too.

"We were professional players fighting a political battle. We were rebels," Mekhloufi told GOAL. "Contact with heads of state, revolutionaries, citizens and journalists opened my eyes. Before that, I was an idiot! I played football with my friends. We laughed, chased girls and went to the cinema. That was it."

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Getty ImagesTriumphant return

Meanwhile, Mekhloufi's former France team-mates chased the title in vain at the 1958 World Cup in Sweden as they were eliminated in the semi-finals. But what might have been possible with the two lost stars?

"I've always said that this team was wonderful and played beautiful football. Yes, we could have become world champions. Of course, it's all hypothetical, but this team was very strong – both in terms of football and politics," Mekhloufi told GOAL. And indeed, there was no resentment towards the rebels; Raymond Kopa of Real Madrid, top scorer Just Fontaine and the rest of the France team even sent their rebellious friends a postcard from Sweden.

From the outset, there was understanding in France for the Algerians' behaviour, and gradually, more and more members of the public rejected the bloody war. In 1962, Algeria finally gained independence through the Evian ceasefire agreement. The FLN selection became the official national team – and many players returned to their previous clubs in France.

Mekhloufi's Saint-Etienne had meanwhile been relegated to Ligue 2. However, with their 25-year-old superstar back in the line up, they managed to bounce straight back up before winning the championship title the following season and later two more, culminating in the double in 1968.

Upon his retirement, Mekhloufi returned to Algeria, where he remained a key figure within football, serving as both national team coach and president of the football federation. He was assistant coach by the time Algeria made their first World Cup appearance in 1982, where they famously beat Germany, only to become the victims of the 'Disgrace of Gijon' as Germany and Austria played out a mutually beneficial game that knocked their African rivals out.

Mekhloufi died in the autumn of 2024 at the age of 88, but he will forever remain a face of the independence movement.

Australia Test opener Usman Khawaja has opted not to play for Queensland in the upcoming Sheffield Shield match against South Australia where a win could hand them a spot in the final, but he could be available for the decider if they get there.Khawaja was not named in Queensland’s 14-man squad after informing Queensland’s selectors that he was unavailable. Queensland Cricket were accepting of Khawaja’s decision with captain Marnus Labuschagne returning to the lead the side being away with Australia’s ODI team at the Champions Trophy.Khawaja isn’t the only Cricket Australia contracted player missing with Xavier Bartlett also unavailable for the remainder of the season as he heads off to play in the IPL for Punjab Kings. Travis Head, Jake Fraser-McGurk and Spencer Johnson are all unavailable for South Australia for the remainder of the season as they are IPL bound but Alex Carey has been named to play against Queensland and will available for the Shield final.Related

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However, Khawaja’s absence is an odd one given he is fully fit and produced match-winning scores of 127 and 33 not out in Queensland’s win over Tasmania to put the Bulls back in contention for the final, as they sit second on the table just 1.41 points ahead of New South Wales. Khawaja has opted to fly from Brisbane to Melbourne to spend the weekend watching the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix instead of playing the Shield game at Karen Rolton Oval.The 38-year-old has managed his schedule carefully in recent years, valuing rest over playing a lot of back-to-back games in order to remain mentally and physically fresh for his Test commitments as he attempts to extend his career as long as possible. That management plan has been supported by Cricket Australia and Queensland Cricket.He missed one of Queensland’s first four Shield games to freshen up ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and understandably missed the Shield game against Western Australia that started nine days after the tour of Sri Lanka where he scored a career-best 232 not out in the first Test. Khawaja wasn’t the only Test player to miss that round but Beau Webster did play for Tasmania, having played the three most recent Tests for Australia.Khawaja has already played 11 first-class matches this summer including seven Tests, which is already more games and days than any Australian domestic red-ball only batter would play in a Shield summer in total. He has also already captained Queensland to a Shield title back in 2021. However, Khawaja is likely to have all of April and May to rest after the Shield season finishes in the final week of March before preparing for four Tests in June and July which include the WTC final and a three-Test tour of the Caribbean. He won’t have any international commitments thereafter until the Ashes begin in late November.Meanwhile, Khawaja’s Queensland team-mates travelled to Adelaide early to get an extra day of training in on Thursday ahead of the match starting on Saturday as the squad could not train all week due to the heavy rain that followed Cyclone Alfred.South Australia have rested quick Brendan Doggett for the Queensland clash ahead of the final but Nathan McAndrew returns after he was rested from the win over Victoria last week.Elsewhere, Australia Test quick Scott Boland has been ruled out of Victoria’s must-win match against WA at the WACA ground. Boland suffered some knee soreness in the aftermath of the loss to South Australia and if Victoria are unable to qualify for the Shield final he is set for an extended period of rest before beginning a lengthy build-up towards the WTC final that will feature some bowling in Melbourne and up-to three training camps in Brisbane.Victoria captain Will Sutherland returns after being rested from the loss against South Australia and Peter Siddle has also been included in the 13-man squad. Victoria have also called up former WA quick David Moody after some strong performances for Victoria’s second XI.New South Wales have named Australia Champions Trophy players Sean Abbott, Ben Dwarshuis and Tanveer Sangha for their day-night pink ball clash with Tasmania at Ninja Stadium (Bellerive Oval) in Hobart. A win and significant bonus points could be enough to get NSW into the final ahead of Queensland even if Queensland beat South Australia.Sheffield Shield squadsQueensland squad: Marnus Labuschagne (c), Jack Clayton, Lachlan Hearne, Angus Lovell, Ben McDermott, Michael Neser, Jimmy Peirson, Matthew Renshaw, Jackson Sinfield, Mark Steketee, Tom Straker, Mitchell Swepson, Callum Vidler, Jack WildermuthSouth Australia squad: Nathan McSweeney (c), Jordan Buckingham, Alex Carey, Henry Hunt, Jake Lehmann, Ben Manenti, Nathan McAndrew, Conor McInerney, Lloyd Pope, Jason Sangha, Liam Scott, Henry ThorntonWestern Australia squad: Sam Whiteman (c), Cameron Bancroft, Hilton Cartwright, Cooper Connolly, Brody Couch, Keaton Critchell, Joel Curtis, Sam Fanning, Cameron Gannon, Jayden Goodwin, Joel Paris, Corey Rocchiccioli, Charlie Stobo, Ashton Turner.Victoria squad: Will Sutherland (c), Scott Boland, ⁠Harry Dixon, Peter Handscomb, Sam Harper, Marcus Harris, Campbell Kellaway, Blake MacDonald, David Moody, Todd Murphy, Fergus ⁠O’Neill, Oliver Peake, Peter SiddleTasmania: Jordan Silk (c), Gabe Bell, Jake Doran, Kieran Elliott, Brad Hope, Caleb Jewell, Matt Kuhnemann, Riley Meredith, Aidan O’Connor, Mitch Owen, Nivethan Radhakrishnan, Tim Ward, Jake Weatherald, Beau WebsterNew South Wales squad: Sean Abbott, Jackson Bird, Ollie Davies, Ben Dwarshuis, Jack Edwards (c), Matthew Gilkes, Chris Green, Liam Hatcher, Sam Konstas, Blake Nikitaras, Kurtis Patterson, Josh Philippe, Tanveer Sangha

Ronaldinho is regarded as one of the most skilful footballers of all time, however, the Brazilian icon once admitted he was jealous of one England legend’s ability.

The former Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and AC Milan star almost signed for Manchester United, with those at Old Trafford viewing him as a replacement for David Beckham. However, those at the Nou Camp hijacked any deal with the attacker going on to become a Barcelona star.

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Ronaldinho never played his club football in England but did break the Three Lions’ hearts in the 2002 World Cup, scoring the winning goal by lobbing David Seaman in the quarter-finals.

The 2005 Ballon d’Or winner also came up against Premier League sides in the Champions League, a competition he won with Barcelona in 2006.

During his playing days, one specific Premier League and England icon caught Ronaldinho’s eye.

Ronaldinho wanted to be like England legend Paul Scholes

Talking previously, Ronaldinho shared his admiration for Manchester United and England legend Paul Scholes.

Regarded as one of the best midfielders the Premier League has ever seen, Scholes starred under Sir Alex Ferguson after coming through the Red Devils’ academy.

Known best for his range of passing, technical ability and midfield intelligence, Scholes won 11 league titles and scored over 150 goals in more than 700 appearances for Man Utd.

Ronaldinho came up against Scholes in the 2002 World Cup and then again in the 2009/10 Champions League round of 16 with AC Milan.

Man Utd and Scholes got the better of Ronaldinho and AC Milan, defeating them 7-2 on aggregate, and the Brazilian admitted he was jealous of the Englishman’s passing ability.

Thierry Henry was “scared” of Man Utd icon Scholes

Arsenal icon Thierry Henry was someone who Scholes faced more regularly during his career, with the French forward losing eight times in 19 games against the Englishman and Man Utd.

Henry once revealed that he and his Gunners teammates were “always scared of what Scholes could do” with the ball at his feet.

حرص حارس مرمى فريق برشلونة، فويتشيك تشيزني، على تبرئة نفسه بعدما أصبح في وضع اتهام بعد مباراته السيئة ضد إشبيلية، يوم الأحد الماضي، في بطولة الدوري الإسباني لكرة القدم.

وحل برشلونة ضيفًا على إشبيلية، في الجولة الثامنة من الدوري الإسباني موسم 2025/26، حيث تعرض لهزيمة قاسية بأربعة أهداف مقابل هدف، ليفقد صدارة الجدول خاصة بعد فوز ريال مدريد ضد فياريال بثلاثة أهداف لهدف.

اقرأ أيضًا.. ديكو عن أزمة لامين يامال ومنتخب إسبانيا: ما يحدث مأساة.. ووجوده هدية للعالم

من جهة أخرى، تعرض تشيزني لانتقادات من جانب جماهير برشلونة بعدما ظهر وهو يبتسم خلال اهتزاز شباك مرماه بهدف إشبيلية الثالث.

Ce regard de Wojciech Szczęsny sur le troisième but encaissé par le FC Barcelone face au FC Séville cet après-midi. 😅 pic.twitter.com/tSQEjMmLnS — Foot Mercato (@footmercato) October 5, 2025

وسُئل تشيزني عن الأمر، حيث رد في تصريحات نشرتها شبكة “meczyki” البولندية: “لم تكن ابتسامة، نادرًا ما أبتسم عندما تدخل الكرة الشباك، من السهل التقاط صورة ويتجمد خلالها تعبير غريب على الوجه هكذا”.

وأضاف: “لقد رأيت الصورة، لم أكن أضحك، لكنني تعلمت أنه في هذه المرحلة من مسيرتي المهنية ألا أحمل العمل إلى المنزل، آمل ألا يلاحظ أحد أنني استخرجت الكرة 4 مرات من الشباك!”.

ولا يُعد تشيزني حارس برشلونة الأول ذلك الموسم بعد التعاقد مع خوان جارسيا، ولكن تغير الأمر بعد إصابة الأخير قبل أسبوعين، ليعود البولندي إلى حراسة المرمى بشكل مؤقت لحين تعافي زميله.

A lot has gone very right for Chelsea so far this summer.

Enzo Maresca’s men overcame what many assumed would be too big a hurdle in Paris Saint-Germain to win the Club World Cup, and have been making some great moves in the transfer market.

The three big signings made so far are undoubtedly Liam Delap, Jamie Gittens and Joao Pedro, but the club show no signs of stopping there.

For example, recent days and weeks have seen them linked to bona fide superstars like Rodrygo, who could cost up to £86m, and more up-and-coming talents who could develop into stars, like Xavi Simons, who appears to have a £52m price tag on his head.

However, it’s not all about bringing players in, as Chelsea have made several sales, and now it appears that one of the most important players has agreed to leave, which could help fund moves for the Real Madrid and RB Leipzig stars.

Why Chelsea want to sign Rodrygo & Simons

It’s certainly the case that, as things stand, Chelsea have plenty of attacking options in their squad. However, ultimately, having more can never hurt, and when they’re of the quality of Rodrygo and Simons, they could end up being hugely impactful next season.

For example, despite playing out of his preferred left-wing position for most of the last two seasons, the Brazilian “superstar,” as dubbed by Luka Modrić, has found the back of the net on 31 occasions and provided 20 assists in 105 appearances, totalling 7159 minutes.

That means the former Santos gem has been averaging a goal involvement every 2.05 games, or every 140.37 minutes across the last two years, which is undoubtedly impressive.

Moreover, when it comes to the Champions League, which the Blues will finally be back in again, his record is remarkable.

In his 64 appearances in the competition, totalling 3883 minutes, the 24-year-old has scored 25 goals and provided 14 assists, which comes out to a goal involvement every 1.64 games, or every 99.56 minutes.

However, what’s crucial to consider here is that eight of his 25 goals have been game-winning, and eight have come in the knockout rounds, so he could prove essential if the West Londoners want to make it far in the competition next season.

The Leipzig ace might not have the same pedigree when it comes to Europe’s top competition, but he was still seriously effective for the German outfit last season.

For example, in 33 appearances last season, totalling 2763 minutes, the Amsterdam-born monster scored 11 goals and provided eight assists, which comes out to a brilliant average of a goal involvement every 1.73 games, or every 145.42 minutes.

Moreover, despite turning 22 only a few months ago, he has already won 28 senior caps for the Netherlands, in which he has scored five goals and provided four assists, suggesting he’s not fazed by the big stages either.

In all, signing both players would make Chelsea a far more formidable proposition next season, but they’d likely need to make a big sale to do so, which, based on reports, they may well do.

The Chelsea star who has agreed to leave

While their incomings have dominated the conversation for fans, and understandably so, Chelsea have already made a few notable sales this summer, with Noni Madueke and Kepa Arrizabalaga going to Arsenal for a combined fee of up to £57m, for example.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

However, with the club still clearly looking to make some sizable additions to the squad, some more consequential sales may have to follow.

As things stand, the exits that feel most likely to happen include João Félix’s return to Benfica, Raheem Sterling’s move to an unnamed Champions League side, and potentially the sale of Nicolas Jackson for a tidy profit.

Yet, there is now another, far more important Blues star who is being linked with a massive departure: Enzo Fernández.

Yes, according to a recent report from Spain, the Argentine international is now a key target for Real Madrid, and a player their new boss, Xabi Alonso, has an ‘obsession’ with and sees as ‘essential’ to improve his midfield.

The report makes it clear that the West Londoners are reluctant to part with their midfield maestro, but he has already given the green light to the Spanish giants, who are working on an offer worth around €150m, equivalent to approximately £130m.

While that is a massive amount of money, and would go a long way in helping to bring in some other game-changing talents, this might be a move that’s hard to stomach for fans if it happens.

After all, the World Cup winner has now made 115 appearances for the Conference League champions, in which he has scored 16 goals, provided 23 assists, and really helped turn Maresca’s side into one that can give anyone a game.

Ultimately, it remains to be seen if this deal goes ahead, but if it does, BlueCo needs to ensure they use the entire fee on new, exciting additions, such as Rodrygo and Simons.

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خاض لاعبو نادي الزمالك، تدريبات فنية قوية، خلال مران اليوم الأحد، الذي أقيم على استاد الكلية الحربية، استعدادًا لمباراة الجونة المقبلة في مسابقة الدوري المصري الممتاز.

ويستعد الفريق الأول لكرة القدم بنادي الزمالك لمواجهة الجونة، المقرر لها يوم الثلاثاء المقبل في الجولة الثامنة لمسابقة الدوري المصري.

وحرص البلجيكي يانيك فيريرا المدير الفني على التركيز على بعض الجوانب الخططية في المران، استعدادًا للمباراة المقبلة، وقام بتوجيه اللاعبين باستمرار رفقة أعضاء جهازه المعاون.

طالع | فيريرا يهدد لاعبي الزمالك بسبب الأهلي: لن تكونوا في حساباتي.. وأستمتع بالجمهور

كما حرص الجهاز الفني للفريق، على تخفيف الحمل البدني للاعبين، وأدى اللاعبون الفقرة البدنية تحت قيادة الإسباني راؤول لوبيز مدرب الأحمال بالفريق، حيث تضمنت تدريبات متنوعة بجانب فقرة خاصة بالكرة.

وألقى البلجيكي يانيك فيريرا المدير الفني للفريق، محاضرة فنية بالفيديو على اللاعبين، وشدد في حديثه مع اللاعبين على أهمية تحقيق الفوز في المباراة المقبلة، وطالبهم بضرورة التركيز وبذل أقصى جهد.

وشرح البلجيكي يانيك فيريرا بعض الأمور الفنية والجوانب الخططية التي سيتم تنفيذها في التدريبات استعدادًا لمواجهة الجونة، ومنح اللاعبين بعض التعليمات الخاصة.

وفي ختام المران خاض اللاعبون تقسيمة فنية مصغرة في منتصف الملعب لتنفيذ ما تم التدريب عليه.

ويتصدر نادي الزمالك، جدول ترتيب الدوري المصري، برصيد 16 نقطة، بعد مرور 7 جولات، إذا فاز في 5 مباريات وتعادل في واحدة وخسر في لقاء.

Despite winning the Europa League, Spurs’ first trophy in 17 years, Tottenham Hotspur will head into the 2025/26 season under a new manager in Thomas Frank.

Daniel Levy made the call to sack Ange Postecoglou and bring in Frank, who he may well back in the transfer market with Champions League football on offer once again.

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Spurs have already signed Mathys Tel on a permanent transfer worth £30m, and AI thinks a further £180m could be spent on three more players ahead of the Premier League opener against Burnley.

Grok, the AI tool on X, has predicted who will be in Frank’s Spurs’ starting line-up for the 25/26 season in a 4-3-3 formation.

AI predicts Tottenham’s 2025/26 starting line-up 1 GK: Guglielmo Vicario

Starting in goal, Guglielmo Vicario has been backed to get the nod ahead of Antonin Kinsky under Frank.

Games

74

Clean sheets

16

Goals conceded

105

Described as a ‘reliable shot-stopper and a leader in the dressing room’, AI says ‘Vicario’s place is secure unless a major upgrade becomes available’.

2 RB: Pedro Porro

Despite rumours of a move away, Pedro Porro is expected to ‘continue as the first-choice right-back under Frank, who values dynamic full-backs’.

The Spainard’s ‘attacking flair and crossing ability make him a key asset’, and he’s now made more appearances for Spurs than any of his previous clubs.

3 CB: Marc Guehi

Cristian Romero has been linked with a move away from north London, which has resulted in AI predicting Marc Guehi to replace the Argentine at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Spurs tried and failed with a bid for Guehi in January, but they have been backed to sign the Crystal Palace star at a cost of £60m, who will offer ‘composure, leadership, and Premier League experience’.

4 CB: Micky van de Ven

AI says ‘Guehi and Micky van de Ven could form a rapid, modern center-back partnership’, with the speedy Dutch defender hopefully back to full fitness in 25/26.

Micky van de Ven

37.1km/h

Matheus Nunes

36.7km/h

Bryan Mbeumo

36.6km/h

Yankuba Minteh

36.4km/h

Anthony Elanga

36.2km/h

Van de Ven only made 13 Premier League appearances last season, but if he is available, he should be a regular under Frank, whose ‘high line system suits his recovery speed’.

5 LB: Destiny Udogie

Another defender who missed large parts of the 24/25 season through injury was left-back Destiny Udogie.

The Italian is labelled by AI as ‘one of Europe’s most promising full-backs’ due to his power and versatility, and if he can remain fit, should start under Frank.

6 DM: Morten Hjulmand

With ‘Frank expected to prioritize a deep-lying playmaker’, fellow Dane Morten Hjulmand has been backed to join Spurs in a £50m transfer.

Currently at Sporting CP, Hjulmand ‘fits the bill with his passing range and defensive nous’, and he ‘would anchor the midfield, allowing others to push forward’.

7 CM: Rodrigo Bentancur

Ahead of Hjulmand is Rodrigo Bentancur following his strong finish to the 24/25 season, and he could be the ideal option in a box-to-box role.

The Uruguayan’s ‘versatility and work rate suit Frank’s high-pressing system’, according to AI, however, he is only under contract until 2026.

8 CM: Eberechi Eze

Completing the midfield is Eberechi Eze, who is backed to join Guehi in leaving Crystal Palace for Tottenham.

Eze has a £70m price tag and his ‘creativity, dribbling, and goal threat would replace James Maddison in the attacking midfield role’. AI has doubts over Maddison due to his injury issues and inconsistent form, which could open the door for Spurs to finally land the Eagles star.

9 RW: Dejan Kulusevski

With target Bryan Mbeumo on course to move to Man Utd, Spurs are predicted to have Dejan Kulusevski on the right hand side under Frank.

The Sweden international is still under contract in north London until 2028 and has been an important player for Tottenham when fully fit, contributing to 55 goals in 146 games.

10 LW: Mathys Tel

Confirmed as a permanent Tottenham player for £30m from Bayern Munich, Mathys Tel’s ‘versatility and potential make him a likely starter’ in attack.

The Frenchman made 17 appearances on the left-wing last season, contributing to five goals, so Tel has been backed to get the nod there under Frank.

Despite winning the Europa League, Spurs’ first trophy in 17 years, Tottenham Hotspur will head into the 2025/26 season under a new manager in Thomas Frank.

Daniel Levy made the call to sack Ange Postecoglou and bring in Frank, who he may well back in the transfer market with Champions League football on offer once again.

AI predicts the 2025/26 Premier League table

Who are the winners and losers from AI’s table?

1 ByCharlie Smith Jun 7, 2025

Spurs have already signed Mathys Tel on a permanent transfer worth £30m, and AI thinks a further £180m could be spent on three more players ahead of the Premier League opener against Burnley.

Grok, the AI tool on X, has predicted who will be in Frank’s Spurs’ starting line-up for the 25/26 season in a 4-3-3 formation.

AI predicts Tottenham’s 2025/26 starting line-up 1 GK: Guglielmo Vicario

Starting in goal, Guglielmo Vicario has been backed to get the nod ahead of Antonin Kinsky under Frank.

Games

74

Clean sheets

16

Goals conceded

105

Described as a ‘reliable shot-stopper and a leader in the dressing room’, AI says ‘Vicario’s place is secure unless a major upgrade becomes available’.

2 RB: Pedro Porro

Despite rumours of a move away, Pedro Porro is expected to ‘continue as the first-choice right-back under Frank, who values dynamic full-backs’.

The Spainard’s ‘attacking flair and crossing ability make him a key asset’, and he’s now made more appearances for Spurs than any of his previous clubs.

3 CB: Marc Guehi

Cristian Romero has been linked with a move away from north London, which has resulted in AI predicting Marc Guehi to replace the Argentine at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Spurs tried and failed with a bid for Guehi in January, but they have been backed to sign the Crystal Palace star at a cost of £60m, who will offer ‘composure, leadership, and Premier League experience’.

4 CB: Micky van de Ven

AI says ‘Guehi and Micky van de Ven could form a rapid, modern center-back partnership’, with the speedy Dutch defender hopefully back to full fitness in 25/26.

Micky van de Ven

37.1km/h

Matheus Nunes

36.7km/h

Bryan Mbeumo

36.6km/h

Yankuba Minteh

36.4km/h

Anthony Elanga

36.2km/h

Van de Ven only made 13 Premier League appearances last season, but if he is available, he should be a regular under Frank, whose ‘high line system suits his recovery speed’.

5 LB: Destiny Udogie

Another defender who missed large parts of the 24/25 season through injury was left-back Destiny Udogie.

The Italian is labelled by AI as ‘one of Europe’s most promising full-backs’ due to his power and versatility, and if he can remain fit, should start under Frank.

6 DM: Morten Hjulmand

With ‘Frank expected to prioritize a deep-lying playmaker’, fellow Dane Morten Hjulmand has been backed to join Spurs in a £50m transfer.

Currently at Sporting CP, Hjulmand ‘fits the bill with his passing range and defensive nous’, and he ‘would anchor the midfield, allowing others to push forward’.

7 CM: Rodrigo Bentancur

Ahead of Hjulmand is Rodrigo Bentancur following his strong finish to the 24/25 season, and he could be the ideal option in a box-to-box role.

The Uruguayan’s ‘versatility and work rate suit Frank’s high-pressing system’, according to AI, however, he is only under contract until 2026.

8 CM: Eberechi Eze

Completing the midfield is Eberechi Eze, who is backed to join Guehi in leaving Crystal Palace for Tottenham.

Eze has a £70m price tag and his ‘creativity, dribbling, and goal threat would replace James Maddison in the attacking midfield role’. AI has doubts over Maddison due to his injury issues and inconsistent form, which could open the door for Spurs to finally land the Eagles star.

9 RW: Dejan Kulusevski

With target Bryan Mbeumo on course to move to Man Utd, Spurs are predicted to have Dejan Kulusevski on the right hand side under Frank.

The Sweden international is still under contract in north London until 2028 and has been an important player for Tottenham when fully fit, contributing to 55 goals in 146 games.

10 LW: Mathys Tel

Confirmed as a permanent Tottenham player for £30m from Bayern Munich, Mathys Tel’s ‘versatility and potential make him a likely starter’ in attack.

The Frenchman made 17 appearances on the left-wing last season, contributing to five goals, so Tel has been backed to get the nod there under Frank.

Liverpool have now submitted a concrete contract offer to sign an “insane” player who could cost an absolute fortune, and he has already spoken to Arne Slot about a summer move, according to reports.

Reds set for busy summer despite title triumph

The Reds may have wrapped up the Premier League title quite some time ago, but it looks as though there could be a busy summer transfer window on the horizon, with Slot looking to bolster his options in a number of different areas.

A deal for Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong is thought to be close, while AFC Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez has been heavily linked on the opposite side of the defence, and there have also been suggestions Slot should bring in a new number 10.

Speaking earlier this year, former Red Jamie Carragher said: “I’m not Dominik Szoboszlai’s biggest fan, but he’s got great athleticism. He gets talked about as Liverpool’s no.10 and people say he’s great off the ball, but he’s a no.10 and only scored three goals,”

In recent days, Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz has been touted as a potential option for Liverpool, with it being revealed the German has held direct talks with Slot over a summer Anfield move, and there has now been a further development.

According to a report from Kicker (via Give Me Sport), Liverpool have now submitted a concrete contract offer to sign Wirtz, who is attracting a lot of attention ahead of the summer transfer window, with Bayern Munich also keen.

The Reds are said to be in a very good position to win the race, and there has been another recent boost in the pursuit of the 22-year-old, with Manchester City thought to have cooled their interest, amid concerns a deal could amount to €300m (£252m) all in once the fee, contracts and bonuses are finalised.

Sky Sports: Liverpool may sell "amazing" £50m player after transfer twist

He played in the 3-2 defeat away to Brighton on Monday night.

By
Henry Jackson

May 20, 2025

"Insane" Wirtz would be statement signing for Liverpool

FSG aren’t exactly known for being big spenders, so it seems likely they will also have reservations about Leverkusen’s huge asking price, but there are signs the Germany international could be a huge upgrade on Szoboszlai.

Carragher may have concerns about the Hungarian’s output, but he is likely to be impressed by the Leverkusen maestro’s attacking numbers last season, picking up 16 goals and 15 assists in all competitions.

In fact, the Pulheim-born attacker has been a constant threat on the front foot for the past year, as showcased by the number of attacking contributions he has averaged per 90, when compared to other attacking midfielders.

Lauded as “insane” by football writer Robin Bairner, Wirtz could be a fantastic signing for Liverpool this summer, but the huge asking price could prove to be prohibitive.