Bayern Munich are finalizing talks to re-sign Canadian international Alphonso Davies, sources tol...

<p>Bayern Munich are finalizing talks to re-sign Canadian international <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///bund/players/69320" href="https://thescore.com/bund/players/69320">Alphonso Davies</a>, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6070539/2025/01/17/bayern-munich-alphonso-davies-contract-new/">The Athletic's David Ornstein</a>.</p><p>The club and player are reportedly working toward a compromise on a four-year contract that would end speculation over his future and rule out Real Madrid as a potential destination for the 24-year-old.</p><p>Bayern have been negotiating with Davies since the beginning of last year and faced the prospect of losing Davies on a free transfer this summer. As a pending free agent, he's had since New Year's Day to speak to overseas clubs without Bayern's permission.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bayern sporting director Max Eberl made a number of offers to Davies' agent and took a take-it-or-leave-it stance when negotiations appeared to hit an impasse last March.</p><p>"At some point in life, you have to say yes or no," Eberl <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2873398" href="https://thescore.com/news/2873398">said</a> at the time.</p><p>Davies is currently earning around €11 million per season, according to <a href="https://www.capology.com/player/alphonso-davies-36832/">Capology</a>, and stands to earn a raise as he enters the prime of his career.</p><p>The Canadian full-back joined Bayern in January 2019 for a then-MLS-record fee of $13.5 million. He won the Champions League in his first full season with the Bavarians, as well as five Bundesliga titles in 218 total appearances for the club.</p>

Mönchengladbach, Germany - January 11: Alphonso Davies of Bayern Muenchen smiles during the Bundesliga match between Borussia Mönchengladbach and FC Bayern München at Stadium in Borussia-Park on January 11, 2025 in Mönchengladbach, Germany.

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Report: Bayern close to signing Davies to new contract

Paris Saint-Germain are signing Napoli winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia for around €70 million, accor...

<p>Paris Saint-Germain are signing Napoli winger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/154299" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/154299">Khvicha Kvaratskhelia</a> for around €70 million, according to transfer insider <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1879193708513677785">Fabrizio Romano</a>.</p><p>Kvaratskhelia, one of Napoli's protagonists in their Scudetto-winning season, requested a transfer from the club last week.</p><p>PSG are now set to seal a transfer they reportedly had in the works for some time. Kvaratskhelia is set earn four-to-five times his current annual salary of around €2 million, according to <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1878082777737748776">Romano</a>.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Napoli manager Antonio Conte said Saturday he was "disappointed" he couldn't convince Kvaratskhelia to stay.</p><p>"It's been six months that I've been trying to make him feel at the heart of our project and showing him with the arrival of other players that we can still do something special here," Conte <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3186860" href="https://thescore.com/news/3186860">told reporters</a>.</p><p>"There was a contract that was supposed to be renewed. Obviously I didn't do enough to convince both parties to carry on together. I'll take a step back because I can't keep chained up a player who doesn't want to stay."</p><p>Napoli reportedly offered Kvaratskhelia a raise to €6 million per season. His contract was set to expire in June 2027.</p><p>The 23-year-old hasn't been the same player since title-winning manager Luciano Spalletti left the Partenopei at the end of the 2022-23 season. Kvaratskhelia has scored just five Serie A goals this season and began to lose playing time to summer signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/91683" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/91683">David Neres</a>.</p><p>PSG were reportedly interested in signing Kvaratskhelia and Napoli's other Scudetto winner, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/90910" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/90910">Victor Osimhen</a>, for as much as €200 million last summer. The price for both seems to have come down significantly. Osimhen, now on loan at Galatasaray, has a release clause of €90 million, down from €120 million last summer.</p><p>His release clause will drop to €75 million in the summer.</p><p>Napoli are reportedly considering Roma's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/29873" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/29873">Lorenzo Pellegrini</a>, Porto's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///uefa/players/97231" href="https://thescore.com/uefa/players/97231">Galeno</a>, and Manchester United's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/188378" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/188378">Alejandro Garnacho</a> as potential replacements for Kvaratskhelia.</p>

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia of SSC Napoli during the Serie A football match between SSC Napoli and Venezia FC at Diego Armando Maradona stadium in Naples (Italy), December 29th, 2024.

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Report: Kvaratskhelia sold to PSG for €70M

Last-placed Championship club Plymouth will host Premier League leaders Liverpool in the standout...

<p>Last-placed Championship club Plymouth will host Premier League leaders Liverpool in the standout fixture of the FA Cup fourth round.</p><p>Sunday's draw provided four all-Premier League clashes, including a high-profile fixture between Manchester United and Leicester City, and a potential David and Goliath scenario between League One side Exeter City and Nottingham Forest.</p><p>Manchester City could also face League One opposition if Leyton Orient take down Championship strugglers Derby County in their third-round fixture Tuesday.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Fifth-tier Dagenham &amp; Redbridge are the only non-league team remaining in the FA Cup and will face Leeds United if they manage to beat Millwall on Monday.</p><p>The fourth round will begin Feb. 8.</p><h3>Draw in full</h3><ul>
<li>Manchester United vs. Leicester City</li>
<li>Leeds United vs. Millwall or Dagenham &amp; Redbridge</li>
<li>Brighton &amp; Hove Albion vs. Chelsea</li>
<li>Preston North End or Charlton vs. Wycombe Wanderers</li>
<li>Exeter City vs. Nottingham Forest</li>
<li>Coventry City vs. Ipswich Town</li>
<li>Blackburn Rovers vs. Wolverhampton</li>
<li>Mansfield Town or Wigan vs. Fulham</li>
<li>Birmingham City vs. Newcastle United</li>
<li>Plymouth Argyle vs. Liverpool</li>
<li>Everton vs. Bournemouth</li>
<li>Aston Villa vs. Tottenham</li>
<li>Southampton or Swansea vs. Burnley</li>
<li>Leyton Orient or Derby County vs. Manchester City</li>
<li>Doncaster Rovers vs. Crystal Palace</li>
<li>Stoke City vs. Cardiff City</li>
</ul>

KETTERING, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 30: The Emirates FA Cup Trophy is seen at Latimer Park on November 30, 2024 in Kettering, England.

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FA Cup 4th-round draw: Plymouth host Liverpool, Man United face Leicester

Manchester City reached a €40-million deal with Lens on Friday to sign promising Uzbeki center-ba...

<p>Manchester City reached a €40-million deal with Lens on Friday to sign promising Uzbeki center-back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///fran/players/200059" href="https://thescore.com/fran/players/200059">Abdukodir Khusanov</a>, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6047857/2025/01/10/abdukodir-khusanov-transfer-manchester-city/">The Athletic's David Ornstein</a>.</p><p>Khusanov will reportedly sign a four-and-a-half-year contract with the Premier League champions.</p><p>The 20-year-old defender has made just 31 appearances for Lens across one-and-a-half seasons. He played for Belarusian side Energetik-BGU prior to his move to France.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Lens paid just €100,000 to acquire him in July 2023.</p><p>City manager Pep Guardiola might end up starting Khusanov sooner rather than later. Injuries to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/14100" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/14100">John Stones</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/68136" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/68136">Ruben Dias</a> have left Guardiola with just three other senior center-backs in his squad. Two of those players, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/60044" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/60044">Manuel Akanji</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/21303" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/21303">Nathan Ake</a>, have been in and out of the lineup this season.</p><p>City are in sixth place in the Premier League and 12 points behind leaders Liverpool having played a game more than their rivals.</p>

LENS - Abdukodir Khusanov of RC Lens during the French Ligue 1 match between RC Lens and Olympique Lyon at Stade Bollaert Delelis on Sept. 15, 2024 in Lens, France. ANP | Hollandse Hoogte | GERRIT VAN KEULEN

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Report: Man City complete €40M deal for Lens defender Khusanov

David Moyes is returning to Everton for a second stint as manager more than a decade after he end...

<p>David Moyes is returning to Everton for a second stint as manager more than a decade after he ended his first, sources told <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6050146/2025/01/10/david-moyes-everton-manager/">The Athletic's David Ornstein</a>.</p><p>Moyes quickly emerged as Everton's top choice to replace Sean Dyche, who was fired Thursday with the club winless in five Premier League matches and just a point off the relegation places.</p><p>Former defender and current under-18 coach Leighton Baines took interim charge of Everton alongside club captain Seamus Coleman for Thursday's 2-0 win over Peterborough in the FA Cup third round.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Friedkin Group, which completed its takeover of the Premier League club in December, reportedly believes Moyes will help the Toffees secure their top-flight status. </p><p>The 61-year-old guided Everton to nine top-10 finishes from 2002-2013, including their highest-ever position of fourth in 2005.</p><p>Moyes was available for hire after leaving West Ham United in June. He rescued West Ham from relegation in 2018 and 2020 and ended their 43-year wait for silverware by winning the UEFA Europa Conference League in 2023.</p><p>He also coached Manchester United, Real Sociedad, and Sunderland upon leaving Everton in 2013.</p><p> </p>

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - MAY 19: West Ham United manager David Moyes before during the Premier League match between Manchester City and West Ham United at Etihad Stadium on May 19, 2024 in Manchester, England.

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Report: Everton set to rehire Moyes as Dyche's replacement

Toronto FC are bringing Robin Fraser back to the club as head coach.  Fraser, who helped TFC win ...

<p>Toronto FC are bringing Robin Fraser back to the club as head coach.</p><p>Fraser, who helped TFC win the 2017 MLS Cup as an assistant coach, signed a deal Friday through the 2027 season.</p><p>"As a person, he exemplifies our club values to the highest degree, and as a manager, we are confident in his ability to achieve sporting success," general manager Jason Hernandez <a href="https://www.torontofc.ca/news/toronto-fc-appoint-robin-fraser-as-head-coach">said</a> in a statement. "Robin's commitment to winning has delivered trophies at Eastern and Western Conferences and we are looking forward to the work ahead to build TFC into the annual contender our ownership and supporters deserve."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Toronto also interviewed former Portland Timbers coach Giovanni Savarese, according to <a href="https://x.com/tombogert/status/1877738300150001903">GiveMeSport insider Tom Bogert</a>. Savarese was fired by the Timbers in August 2023 after six years at the helm.</p><p>Fraser becomes Toronto's fifth permanent head coach in five seasons. Chris Armas, Bob Bradley, Javier Perez, and John Herdman have all passed through the club since Greg Vanney ended his seven-year tenure in December 2020. Herdman announced his resignation last November amid a spying scandal dating back to his time as head coach of Canada's men's and women's teams.</p><p>Fraser served as Vanney's assistant from 2015-19 and eventually left to become head coach of the Colorado Rapids. The 58-year-old led them to first place in the Western Conference in 2021 but couldn't get them to the playoffs the following campaign and departed in September 2023 with the team in last place.</p><p>"I'm incredibly delighted to be back in Toronto and back with TFC. This is a city and a club that are very near and dear to my heart," Fraser said. "The TFC fans are among the best in the league, and I'm so thankful to be a part of this group as we look forward to giving our fans something to be excited about. From top to bottom, this is a first-class organization, and I'm so looking forward to doing all that I can to help us compete for championships, year in and year out."</p><p>Fraser moved into coaching in 2007 after wrapping up his 10-year MLS career as a defender for the LA Galaxy, Rapids, and Columbus Crew. He also made 27 appearances for the United States men's national team.</p><p>Toronto FC are much worse off than they were when Fraser was last at the club. They've failed to make the playoffs for fourth consecutive seasons and finished 11th in the Eastern Conference with an 11-4-19 record.</p><p> </p>

CARSON, CA - SEPTEMBER 19: Head coach Robin Fraser of the Colorado Rapids instructs the team from the sidelines during the game against the Los Angeles Galaxy at Dignity Health Sports Park on September 19, 2020 in Carson, California.

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Toronto FC hire Robin Fraser as head coach

Following every weekend of Premier League action, theScore examines the most important developmen...

<p><em>Following every weekend of Premier League action, theScore examines the most important developments and biggest talking points to emerge from the slate of matches. Below, we dissect Matchweek 20 of the 2024-25 season.</em></p><h3>Why can't Man United always play with commitment?</h3><p>All Manchester United fans wanted from Sunday's match at Liverpool was a performance full of fight and courage.</p><p>They got both.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>United played for the win against a Liverpool side that has won 82% of its games this season. They made mistakes, of course, with Matthijs de Ligt sliding by Cody Gakpo as the Liverpool forward equalized and later conceding a needless penalty for handball. But United showed enough fight and drive to steer home a 2-2 draw. </p><p>They set the tone early, completing 14 tackles before Liverpool could even win one, and turning Trent Alexander-Arnold, one of Arne Slot's most reliable players, into a liability, sending a barrage of balls over top of him. Harry Maguire and Manuel Ugarte leapt into challenges, showing aggression instead of respect. Though United lost control at times, they were ultimately rewarded for the risks they took.</p><p>The Red Devils approached the Manchester derby with similar grit and stayed in it long enough to snatch a famous victory. They played even better as a collective Sunday at Anfield. It wasn't only a byproduct of an uninterrupted week of training, which head coach Ruben Amorim had been waiting for since November, but a combination of effort and passion. United simply turned up and showed they can play ball.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763753/cropped_GettyImages-2192521928.jpg?ts=1736105502" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763753/w220xh124_GettyImages-2192521928.jpg?ts=1736105502 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763753/w320xh180_GettyImages-2192521928.jpg?ts=1736105502 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763753/w640xh360_GettyImages-2192521928.jpg?ts=1736105502 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763753/w768xh432_GettyImages-2192521928.jpg?ts=1736105502 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763753/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2192521928.jpg?ts=1736105502 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Carl Recine / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>But they seem to pick and choose when to show up and play hard. Amorim couldn't coax the same fighting spirit out of his players in recent losses to Bournemouth, Wolverhampton, and Newcastle United. It may well be that United perform best as the underdog, when they have less of the ball and the chance to play more open games. Possession seems like more of a burden for this team, which often struggles to break down opponents who challenge them to do so.</p><p>As big of a statement a win over Liverpool would've made, it wouldn't have magically saved United's season. What's important is that Amorim now knows his players have the belief to stand up to the kind of opponents the club hopes to one day match. They have to bottle that confidence and energy and unleash it in the coming games against Southampton, Brighton &amp; Hove Albion, and Fulham. Or else the whole exercise lacks purpose.</p><h3>Quick free-kicks 📝</h3><p><strong>No City turnaround yet, but one huge positive</strong></p><p>Let's get the biggest caveat out of the way: Manchester City won 4-1 against Julen Lopetegui's deeply uninspiring West Ham United. There was no Jarrod Bowen, who could be sidelined until the end of February, and goalkeeper Alphonse Areola seems to get steadily worse. Vladimir Coufal was laggard and lost. Edson Alvarez, the bull terrier with no bite in the visitors' midfield, ducked out of a header before City's first goal.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763583/cropped_GettyImages-2191800401.jpg?ts=1736012924" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763583/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191800401.jpg?ts=1736012924 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763583/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191800401.jpg?ts=1736012924 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763583/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191800401.jpg?ts=1736012924 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763583/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191800401.jpg?ts=1736012924 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763583/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191800401.jpg?ts=1736012924 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">OLI SCARFF / AFP / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>And Pep Guardiola's side was still vulnerable at the back and would've conceded more than once with better decision-making by Mohammed Kudus and others. This was far from vintage City, but at least there's one massive plus from recent outings: Savinho and Erling Haaland's connection. Savinho started to turn things around in the 1-1 home draw with Everton, and he's netted a fine strike and assisted three Haaland goals in the two wins that followed. The second goal Saturday was the most pleasing as Haaland touched the ball once - a deft pass to Phil Foden - and then a second time to head it home after Savinho tore past Coufal and whipped in an unstoppable cross.</p><p><strong>Chelsea aren't the finished article</strong></p><p>Saturday's 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace provided further evidence that Chelsea aren't ready to compete for the title. Enzo Maresca's side isn't responsible enough or clinical enough to finish off winnable games like the one at Selhurst Park. Until his players cut down on the giveaways they gift to opponents, they'll be in for a fight just to qualify for the Champions League next season.</p><p>Chelsea controlled play in the first half but lost their composure in the second and seemed likeliest to concede as the minutes ticked by. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez rolled a ball straight to an opponent, Jadon Sancho dribbled his way into trouble in his own end, and Cole Palmer's turnover led to Jean-Philippe Mateta's 82nd-minute equalizer. Chelsea also missed a number of chances to build on their initial 1-0 lead, with mercurial striker Nicolas Jackson once again sending several shots wide and the team landing just one of 15 on target. While the Blues are making long-awaited progress, they're far from the finished article.</p><p><strong>Too many draws for Arsenal to win title</strong></p><p>Even if Arsenal didn't deserve much more than a point from Saturday's 1-1 draw at Brighton &amp; Hove Albion, they could've come away with a win. They started well enough, limited Brighton's chances and only conceded when referee Anthony Taylor awarded a penalty for an unusual clash of heads on the edge of the area. But the Gunners have struggled to manage Premier League games and overcome the injuries and illnesses knocking star players out of action. They've now thrown away 10 points from winning positions, far too many for a team that could trail pacesetters Liverpool by as many as nine if they win their game in hand.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763754/cropped_GettyImages-2191845693.jpg?ts=1736105610" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763754/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191845693.jpg?ts=1736105610 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763754/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191845693.jpg?ts=1736105610 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763754/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191845693.jpg?ts=1736105610 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763754/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191845693.jpg?ts=1736105610 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763754/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191845693.jpg?ts=1736105610 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Shaun Brooks - CameraSport / CameraSport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has said many times that margins are small and every missed detail could prove costly. He unleashed pickpockets on his players as part of a preseason strategy to keep them sharp. But mistakes like the one that conceded the penalty keep happening. They're momentary lapses that add up. Arsenal also can't afford to flail on any more of Declan Rice's phenomenal deliveries, which are virtual get-out-of-jail-free cards on difficult days like Saturday. Lacking the finish they've previously shown on set pieces, Arteta and Co. will have no choice but to go back to the drawing board if Liverpool take care of business.</p><p><strong>Yes, Southampton might be that bad</strong></p><p>It's already been asked, and it'll be explored in greater depth with each passing defeat: Are Southampton worse than Derby County? The Rams, who have the all-time worst points tally of 11 from the 2007-08 Premier League season, somehow had a more pitiful attack than the 2024-25 Saints. Their defense, however, didn't have the same catastrophic pairing of anxiety and over-ambition. The Derby disasterclass alarmingly had more points at this stage of the season (seven after 20 matches) than Southampton have (six) after Saturday's 5-0 humiliation at home to Brentford.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Southampton this PL season:<br><br>13 — Errors leading to goal<br>12 — Goals <a href="https://t.co/d3kQzWcgVW">pic.twitter.com/d3kQzWcgVW</a></p>— StatMuse FC (@statmusefc) <a href="https://twitter.com/statmusefc/status/1875591436273643672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The reasons that Southampton are bottom of the table are clear to see. They've fired the fewest shots on target while allowing the most attempts on their own goal. Errors drained the team's confidence; the diminishing belief led to more mistakes. And Ivan Juric, who succeeded the ruinously stubborn Russell Martin at the helm, may have the reputation of a disciplinarian from his time working in Italy, but he currently looks little more than a fall guy for a club that's headed for a historically bad Premier League campaign.</p><h3>Star performer 🌟</h3><p><strong>Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford)</strong></p><p>Mbeumo put together a complete performance for Brentford on Saturday. While the two goals stood out - particularly his left-footed rocket from close range - he was central to Brentford's overall attacking play. Mbeumo whipped in crosses and corner kicks, released passes into the 18-yard box, and created five chances for his teammates. He made 81 touches - more than any other Brentford player - showing how much he relishes the responsibility of building their attack.</p><p>The obvious temptation is to play down his efforts. Southampton are, after all, the league's worst team with the worst goal differential. But Mbeumo has played with ambition against teams big and small in the Premier League, dominating in wins over Newcastle and Ipswich Town while scoring goals against Chelsea and Arsenal. He's the real deal.</p><h3>Best XI 😎</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=303919:Pickford,729731:Cash,847983:Martinez,188058:Burn,1010426:Lewis-Potter,923312:Mbeumo,215384:Barkley,1035614:Ugarte,1174337:Savinho,666857:Wissa,737066:Haaland&amp;formation=4-4-2" srcset="https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=303919:Pickford,729731:Cash,847983:Martinez,188058:Burn,1010426:Lewis-Potter,923312:Mbeumo,215384:Barkley,1035614:Ugarte,1174337:Savinho,666857:Wissa,737066:Haaland&amp;formation=4-4-2 220w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=303919:Pickford,729731:Cash,847983:Martinez,188058:Burn,1010426:Lewis-Potter,923312:Mbeumo,215384:Barkley,1035614:Ugarte,1174337:Savinho,666857:Wissa,737066:Haaland&amp;formation=4-4-2 320w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=303919:Pickford,729731:Cash,847983:Martinez,188058:Burn,1010426:Lewis-Potter,923312:Mbeumo,215384:Barkley,1035614:Ugarte,1174337:Savinho,666857:Wissa,737066:Haaland&amp;formation=4-4-2 640w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=303919:Pickford,729731:Cash,847983:Martinez,188058:Burn,1010426:Lewis-Potter,923312:Mbeumo,215384:Barkley,1035614:Ugarte,1174337:Savinho,666857:Wissa,737066:Haaland&amp;formation=4-4-2 768w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=303919:Pickford,729731:Cash,847983:Martinez,188058:Burn,1010426:Lewis-Potter,923312:Mbeumo,215384:Barkley,1035614:Ugarte,1174337:Savinho,666857:Wissa,737066:Haaland&amp;formation=4-4-2 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p>(Source: <a href="https://www.fotmob.com/">FotMob</a>)</p><h3>Highlight of the weekend 🎥</h3><p>Sancho is already closing in on the number of league minutes he amassed at Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund over the whole of last season, and the Chelsea winger has shown glimpses of what he's capable of during those appearances. His dummy, dribble, and subtle prod toward Cole Palmer at Crystal Palace was magnificent.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">A well-worked team goal. 👊<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CFC</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CRYCHE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CRYCHE</a> <a href="https://t.co/XPUBVMrzWE">pic.twitter.com/XPUBVMrzWE</a></p>— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChelseaFC/status/1875663500804043149?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Stat of the weekend 🔢</h3><p>Everton need to find goals from somewhere soon - especially when Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Craig Dawson can't add to his Toffees tally until March.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Goals scored by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EFC</a> in their last 10 games:<br><br>0-0-0-0-4-0-0-1-0-0<br><br>Goalscorers in those 10 games:<br><br>Craig Dawson (own goal) - 2<br>Ashley Young - 1<br>Orel Mangala - 1<br>Iliman Ndiaye - 1</p>— EFC Statto (@EFC_Statto) <a href="https://twitter.com/EFC_Statto/status/1875586856936743022?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Social media moment 📱</h3><p>Maybe this guy's mother knows more about football than he thinks - and at least she helped Southampton fans enjoy some gallows humor during another awful day for the club.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Went to the St Mary’s for first time in a while. My mum, who knows nothing about football, predicted the 0-5 loss then got booed when collecting her prize from Adam Armstrong in the Saints hospitality 😂 <a href="https://t.co/aRJ5bxpX9r">pic.twitter.com/aRJ5bxpX9r</a></p>— Hugo Scheckter (@HugoScheckter) <a href="https://twitter.com/HugoScheckter/status/1875613672359522817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Where we stand 👀</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pos.</th>
<th>Club</th>
<th>Played</th>
<th>GD</th>
<th>Points</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1.</td>
<td>Liverpool</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>+28</td>
<td>46</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2.</td>
<td>Arsenal</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>+21</td>
<td>40</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3.</td>
<td>Nottingham Forest</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>+7</td>
<td>37</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4.</td>
<td>Chelsea</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>+15</td>
<td>36</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5.</td>
<td>Newcastle United</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>+12</td>
<td>35</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6.</td>
<td>Manchester City</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>+9</td>
<td>34</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7.</td>
<td>Bournemouth</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>+7</td>
<td>33</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8.</td>
<td>Aston Villa</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>-2</td>
<td>32</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9.</td>
<td>Fulham</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>+3</td>
<td>30</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10.</td>
<td>Brighton</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>+1</td>
<td>28</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11.</td>
<td>Brentford</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>+3</td>
<td>27</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12.</td>
<td>Tottenham</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>+12</td>
<td>24</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13.</td>
<td>Manchester United</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>-5</td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14.</td>
<td>West Ham</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>-15</td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15.</td>
<td>Crystal Palace</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>-7</td>
<td>21</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>16.</td>
<td>Everton</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>-10</td>
<td>17</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17.</td>
<td>Wolves</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>-11</td>
<td>16</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>18.</td>
<td>Ipswich Town</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>-15</td>
<td>16</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>19.</td>
<td>Leicester City</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>-21</td>
<td>14</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>20.</td>
<td>Southampton</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>-32</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>View more stats <a href="thescore:///epl/leaders">here</a>.</em></p>

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EPL Review: Man United must keep fighting spirit; Mbeumo's the real deal

Marcus Rashford confirmed his intention to keep playing at the highest level after turning down m...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/66886" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/66886">Marcus Rashford</a> confirmed his intention to keep playing at the highest level after turning down multiple offers from the Saudi Pro League worth as much as £35 million per year, sources told <a href="https://www.thetimes.com/article/26cade63-994b-46f3-8db3-944db000e5a4">The Times' Paul Hirst</a>.</p><p>Rashford reportedly resisted the temptation to become one of the game's highest earners despite stating his willingness to leave Manchester United in an <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3161688" href="https://thescore.com/news/3161688">explosive interview</a> in December.</p><p>Hirst reports the 27-year-old wants to play for England again, and that he must continue his career in a top European league to remain in contention for a recall. Thomas Tuchel is going on a scouting tour this weekend as he officially begins work as head coach of the English national team.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Rashford was left off Gareth Southgate's Euro 2024 squad. He last appeared for England in a March 2024 friendly against Belgium.</p><p>Saudi Arabia seemed like Rashford's most realistic destination given his sizable salary and United's £50-million valuation of the player. The Pro League clubs offered more than double his current salary, which stands at £315,000 per week, according to Hirst. Rashford would've avoided any income tax as a foreigner in Saudi Arabia.</p><p>United would reportedly accept a loan deal in January if the club taking Rashford agrees to pay a fee and cover most of his wages.</p><p>Rashford admitted Dec. 17 that he's "ready for a new challenge," and that he'd have "no hard feelings" if he left the club he joined as a seven-year-old.</p><p>He gave the interview after being dropped from Ruben Amorim's squad for United's 2-1 win over Manchester City on Dec. 15. Rashford sat out the following three games before returning to the squad for Monday's 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United.</p><p>Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea have also been linked with the Manchester native.</p><p>He's scored just seven goals in 23 total appearances this season and has a contract until June 2028.</p>

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 30: Marcus Rashford of Manchester United warms up during the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and Newcastle United FC at Old Trafford on December 30, 2024 in Manchester, England.

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Report: Rashford rejects Saudi offers worth £35M per year

Mohamed Salah became the first player in Premier League history to break for Christmas with at le...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/17673" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/17673">Mohamed Salah</a> became the first player in Premier League history to break for Christmas with at least 10 goals and 10 assists after recording two of each in Liverpool's 6-3 win over Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.</p><p>Salah increased his output to 15 goals and 11 assists to lead all Premier League scorers after 17 games.</p><p>The Egyptian also moved into fourth place on Liverpool's all-time scoring list with 229 goals in 373 total appearances for the club. Only Ian Rush, Roger Hunt, and Gordon Hodgson have scored more for Liverpool.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"It's great to achieve that at such a big club, but the most important thing is that we won the game. Wherever I am going to end my career, I am happy about it," Salah, who's out of contract at the end of the season, told <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3167956" href="https://thescore.com/news/3167956">Sky Sports</a>.</p><p>Liverpool extended their lead to four points after outgunning Tottenham in a back-and-forth encounter the visitors at one point led 5-1.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/101948" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/101948">Luis Diaz</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/160602" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/160602">Alexis Mac Allister</a> powered Liverpool into a deserved 2-0 lead before <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/28286" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/28286">James Maddison</a> clawed a goal back for Spurs. The reprieve barely lasted as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/93042" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/93042">Dominik Szoboszlai</a> countered in the first minute of first-half stoppage time to sap any momentum out of Tottenham's comeback effort. </p><p>Salah set up Szoboszlai's goal shortly after the interval with an incredible reverse pass off a quick move up the field. Liverpool repeated the same play over and over, beating Tottenham's high line with a series of long balls that set up numerous breakaways throughout the game.</p><p>Salah scored his first goal of the night off a similar counterattack, finishing it off 14 seconds after it began. He tapped home his second 12 seconds after Liverpool initiated another breakaway.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/100082" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/100082">Dejan Kulusevski</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/34985" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/34985">Dominic Solanke</a>'s strikes were merely consolation efforts as Diaz confirmed the result with the game's ninth tally shortly before the end of regular time.</p><p>Liverpool have now won 21 of 25 games since Slot replaced Jurgen Klopp as manager.</p>

Liverpool's Mohamed Salah celebrates scoring their side's fourth goal of the game during the Premier League match at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London. Picture date: Sunday December 22, 2024.

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Salah hits multiple milestones in Liverpool's wild 6-3 win over Spurs

Marcus Rashford admitted Tuesday he's ready to leave Manchester United after hearing that the clu...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engcc/players/66886" href="https://thescore.com/engcc/players/66886">Marcus Rashford</a> admitted Tuesday he's ready to leave Manchester United after hearing that the club wants to move him in the January transfer window.</p><p>"For me, personally, I think I'm ready for a new challenge and the next steps," Rashford <a href="https://x.com/henrywinter/status/1869093724103602178">told</a> English football journalist Henry Winter. "When I leave, it's going to be, 'No hard feelings.' You're not going to have any negative comments from me about Manchester United. That's me as a person.</p><p>"If I know that a situation is already bad, I'm not going to make it worse. I've seen how other players have left in the past, and I don't want to be that person. When I leave, I'll make a statement and it will be from me."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/football/2024/dec/16/manchester-united-marcus-rashford-cultural-reboot-garnacho">The Guardian's Jamie Jackson</a> reported Monday that United want to sell Rashford as part of a cultural shakeup at the club. Co-owner Jim Ratclife and head coach Ruben Amorim seem to agree that Rashford - who was previously dropped by ex-manager Erik ten Hag for showing up late to training - must go to establish a higher standard at United.</p><p>Amorim left Rashford and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engcc/players/188378" href="https://thescore.com/engcc/players/188378">Alejandro Garnacho</a> at home for Sunday's 2-1 win over Manchester City following unsatisfactory performances in training. The Portuguese boss said he evaluates the way his players eat, dress, and engage with teammates before picking his team.</p><p>"I do feel misunderstood, but I'm fine with it," Rashford responded. "I'm a very simple person. I love football. That's been my life from the beginning."</p><p>It's unclear whether anyone will come in for the 27-year-old in January. He has a contract until June 2028 and reportedly earns £365,000 per week.</p><p>Rashford, who has spent his entire professional career at United, has scored seven goals in 23 total appearances this season.</p>

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 7: Manchester United's Marcus Rashford during the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and Nottingham Forest FC at Old Trafford on December 7, 2024 in Manchester, England.

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Rashford 'ready' to leave Man United amid reports of possible January exit

The winners of the 2024 Best FIFA Football Awards, the ninth edition of the governing body's flag...

<p>The winners of the 2024 Best FIFA Football Awards, the ninth edition of the governing body's flagship awards ceremony, were revealed Tuesday during a special event in Doha, Qatar. Fans, national team captains and coaches, and media members contributed to the voting for various honors, which recognize excellence in the sport between Aug. 21, 2023, and Aug. 10, 2024.</p><p>Below, theScore runs down the winners of each trophy.</p><h3>Best Men's Player</h3><p><strong>Vinicius Jr (Real Madrid and Brazil)</strong></p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Vinicius Junior finally took home a major individual award after missing out on the Ballon d'Or in October. Neither Vinicius nor Real Madrid attended the Ballon d'Or ceremony in Paris after learning early on that he lost the vote to Manchester City's Rodri, but the Brazilian was on hand Tuesday to collect the award. Vinicius helped Madrid win La Liga and the Champions League last season, scoring in the final against Borussia Dortmund to clinch the club's record-extending 15th European Cup. He finished the 2023-24 campaign with 24 goals in 39 appearances.</p><p><strong>Beaten finalists</strong>: Rodri, Jude Bellingham</p><h3>Best Women's Player</h3><p><strong>Aitana Bonmati (Barcelona and Spain)</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761114/cropped_GettyImages-2190420946.jpg?ts=1734458347" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761114/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190420946.jpg?ts=1734458347 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761114/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190420946.jpg?ts=1734458347 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761114/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190420946.jpg?ts=1734458347 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761114/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190420946.jpg?ts=1734458347 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/761114/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190420946.jpg?ts=1734458347 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Alex Caparros - FIFA / FIFA / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Bonmati's trophy cabinet is getting crowded. Two months after winning a second consecutive Ballon d'Or, the 26-year-old defended her title as the Best FIFA Women's Player in 2024. Bonmati powered Barcelona to another multi-title finish last season, including a continental sweep of the Spanish league, Copa de la Reina, Supercopa de Espana, and the Women's Champions League.</p><p><strong>Beaten finalists</strong>: Barbara Banda, Caroline Graham Hansen</p><h3>Best Men's Coach</h3><p><strong>Carlo Ancelotti (Real Madrid)</strong></p><p>Ancelotti collected the FIFA award for the first time after another successful season coaching Madrid. He became the first manager to win the Champions League five times and the only one to compete in six finals after Madrid's latest European conquest. Ancelotti is now aiming to win the 31st trophy of his managerial career in Wednesday's Intercontinental Cup final against Mexico's Pachuca.</p><p><strong>Beaten finalists</strong>: Xabi Alonso, Pep Guardiola</p><h3>Best Women's Coach</h3><p><strong>Emma Hayes (United States)</strong></p><p>Hayes ended her 12-year tenure with Chelsea by winning a fifth straight Women's Super League title. She then led the U.S. to Olympic gold, completing an unbelievable turnaround just over two months after beginning work with the national team. The U.S. entered the tournament after a number of disappointing international outings, including a last-16 exit at the 2023 Women's World Cup and a semifinal loss to Canada at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021.</p><p><strong>Beaten finalists</strong>: Jonatan Giraldez, Arthur Elias</p><h3>Best Men's Goalkeeper</h3><p><strong>Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa and Argentina)</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/635791/cropped_GettyImages-2160665410.jpg?ts=1720186377" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/635791/w220xh124_GettyImages-2160665410.jpg?ts=1720186377 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/635791/w320xh180_GettyImages-2160665410.jpg?ts=1720186377 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/635791/w640xh360_GettyImages-2160665410.jpg?ts=1720186377 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/635791/w768xh432_GettyImages-2160665410.jpg?ts=1720186377 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/635791/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2160665410.jpg?ts=1720186377 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Buda Mendes / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Martinez completed a full sweep of individual honors in 2024, adding Tuesday's recognition to the Yashin Trophy he collected at the Ballon d'Or ceremony in October. It was another banner year for Martinez: The colorful Argentinian 'keeper helped his country defend its Copa America title, producing five clean sheets in the tournament and two crucial saves in the quarterfinal shootout win over Ecuador.</p><p><strong>Beaten finalists</strong>: Ederson, Unai Simon</p><h3>Best Women's Goalkeeper</h3><p><strong>Alyssa Naeher (Chicago Red Stars and United States)</strong></p><p>Naeher backstopped the U.S. to the gold medal with shutouts in all three knockout matches in the Olympic women's football tournament. The 36-year-old made four stops in the final, including a last-ditch effort to prevent Brazil from scoring a late equalizer. Naeher retired from international duty shortly after her heroics in France.</p><p><strong>Beaten finalists</strong>: Cata Coll, Mary Earps</p><h3>Best FIFA Men's 11</h3><p>Emiliano Martinez; Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rudiger, Ruben Dias, William Saliba; Jude Bellingham, Rodri, Toni Kroos; Lamine Yamal, Erling Haaland, Vinicius Junior</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="in" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheBest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheBest</a> FIFA Men's 11 in 2024. 🌟</p>— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAWorldCup/status/1869077618349297808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Best FIFA Women's 11</h3><p>Alyssa Naher; Lucy Bronze, Naomi Girma, Irene Paredes, Ona Batlle; Gabi Portilho, Patricia Guijarro, Lindsey Horan, Aitana Bonmati; Caroline Graham Hansen, Salma Paralluelo</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheBest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheBest</a> FIFA Women's 11 in 2024. ✨</p>— FIFA Women's World Cup (@FIFAWWC) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAWWC/status/1869071367372427438?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Puskas Award</h3><p><strong>Alejandro Garnacho vs. Everton</strong></p><p>Manchester United forward Alejandro Garnacho's overhead kick in the Premier League in November 2023 was voted the best goal in men's soccer.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The last time <a href="https://twitter.com/ManUtd?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ManUtd</a> took on Everton, Alejandro Garnacho produced something extra special 🤌<br><br>🎙️ <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNFutbolArg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ESPNFutbolArg</a> <a href="https://t.co/wrrRwXCoKe">pic.twitter.com/wrrRwXCoKe</a></p>— Premier League (@premierleague) <a href="https://twitter.com/premierleague/status/1766423005628936217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><em>View every nominated goal <a href="https://www.fifa.com/en/the-best-fifa-football-awards/2024/articles/puskas-award-nominees">here</a>.</em></p><h3>Marta Award</h3><p><strong>Marta vs. Jamaica</strong></p><p>Marta's long-range strike in Brazil's international friendly on June 1 was voted the best goal in women's soccer.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Marta. 🇧🇷👑<br><br>🎥 Friendly <a href="https://t.co/xMk7hptVYO">pic.twitter.com/xMk7hptVYO</a></p>— FIFA Women's World Cup (@FIFAWWC) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAWWC/status/1866483274240918008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 10, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p><em>View every nominated goal <a href="https://www.fifa.com/en/the-best-fifa-football-awards/2024/articles/marta-award-nominees">here</a>.</em></p>

DOHA, QATAR - DECEMBER 17: Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid poses for a photo after being presented with The Best FIFA Men's Player Award during the The Best FIFA Football Awards 2024 at Aspire Academy on December 17, 2024 in Doha, Qatar.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29468634/related

The Best FIFA Awards: Vini Jr. beats Rodri to top honor, Bonmati wins again

<p><em>Following every weekend of Premier League action, theScore examines the most important developments and biggest talking points to emerge from the slate of matches. Below, we dissect Matchweek 16 of the 2024-25 season.</em></p><h3>Man United let City beat themselves</h3><p>Manchester United could've sensed blood in the water and tried their hardest to embarrass their already wounded rivals. Manchester City entered Sunday's derby with just one win in 10 matches across all competitions and seemed there for the taking.</p><p>Instead of trying hard to make City look bad, United waited for them to do something stupid enough to lose the game. City have lost their heads so many times over the last few weeks. Self-sabotage has become their thing.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Perhaps that's why United boss Ruben Amorim seemed happy enough to leave Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho at home. Maybe he knew he didn't need a lot of firepower. It was worth sending a message here to keep standards high.</p><p>United weren't spectacular Sunday. It felt at times like they were playing with the hand brake on. Rasmus Hojlund made a number of penetrating runs that could've floored City's defenders. His teammates just didn't seem comfortable enough to release him into space. United preferred to keep things under control. They played more high-percentage passes and broke up the game when City began to gain a foothold. Amad Diallo, the 22-year-old winger who has benefited the most from Amorim's arrival, was dangerous enough on his own to keep City on their toes.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760738/cropped_GettyImages-2186664069.jpg?ts=1734296878" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760738/w220xh124_GettyImages-2186664069.jpg?ts=1734296878 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760738/w320xh180_GettyImages-2186664069.jpg?ts=1734296878 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760738/w640xh360_GettyImages-2186664069.jpg?ts=1734296878 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760738/w768xh432_GettyImages-2186664069.jpg?ts=1734296878 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760738/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2186664069.jpg?ts=1734296878 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Richard Pelham / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>City didn't look confident either. How could they be? They had kept only two clean sheets in their previous 14 Premier League matches. City retreated as the contest wore on and defended with as many as six men at the back. They didn't record a single shot on target in the second half. Erling Haaland had just two touches in the penalty area all game.</p><p>Pep Guardiola's side was trying to nurse the 1-0 lead. When does it nurse anything?</p><p>Diallo caught City just as they were doubting themselves, drawing a penalty off of Matheus Nunes' feeble back-pass and hopeless tackle before splitting the defense for the winner. Diallo profited off the nervousness at the Etihad with the kind of incisive play Amorim has unlocked in his short time there.</p><p>United played the percentages perfectly. Individual errors have cost City dearly over the last few weeks and were always likely to rear their ugly head again Sunday. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is let your opponent beat itself.</p><p>"It's not about luck," City midfielder Bernardo Silva told <a href="https://www.skysports.com/football/live-blog/11661/13272048/man-city-vs-man-utd-live?postid=8791600#liveblog-body">Sky Sports</a>. "It's the decisions you make. Today, in the last minutes, we played like Under-15s, and we paid the price."</p><h3>Quick free-kicks 📝</h3><p><strong>Jota's return boosts Liverpool</strong></p><p>Under normal circumstances, a 2-2 draw against Fulham at Anfield would be viewed as two points dropped by Liverpool. But context is important. The Reds played Saturday's frenetic match with 10 men for over 70 minutes after Andy Robertson's early red card, and they fought back twice to earn a point. Diogo Jota, back from injury for his first match in nearly two months, came off the bench to score a lovely late equalizer. The Portuguese forward's return is huge for Arne Slot. Mohamed Salah has 22 Premier League goal involvements this season, but no other Liverpool player has reached double figures. At some point, the Egyptian will need some help. Jota, who has more goals off the bench than any player in the league since he joined the Merseyside outfit in 2020, gives Slot a true secondary scoring threat, especially as Darwin Nunez continues to misfire in front of goal. Whether Jota can stay fit enough to help sustain Liverpool's title push is another matter.</p><p><strong>Gunners need more firepower</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760739/cropped_GettyImages-2189251734.jpg?ts=1734296921" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760739/w220xh124_GettyImages-2189251734.jpg?ts=1734296921 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760739/w320xh180_GettyImages-2189251734.jpg?ts=1734296921 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760739/w640xh360_GettyImages-2189251734.jpg?ts=1734296921 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760739/w768xh432_GettyImages-2189251734.jpg?ts=1734296921 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760739/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2189251734.jpg?ts=1734296921 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">John Walton - PA Images / PA Images / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Despite Mikel Arteta's suggestions to the contrary, Arsenal should invest during the January transfer window to ensure their title bid doesn't fizzle out. The north London side hasn't scored a goal from open play in three Premier League matches, and Arteta's lack of attacking solutions off the bench was laid bare in Saturday's dull goalless draw with Everton. His "tactical" decision to substitute captain and chief playmaker Martin Odegaard backfired, in part because his options are limited. Ethan Nwaneri is immensely talented and looks like a future star, but he's still only 17. Gabriel Jesus, who also came on, hasn't scored a league goal since January, while Leandro Trossard hasn't been the same impact substitute as he was in previous years. Odegaard and Bukayo Saka can carry the attack, but some help would be welcome for days like Saturday when things aren't quite clicking.</p><p><strong>Newcastle's set-piece prowess</strong></p><p>Who needs Nicolas Jover? Arsenal remain the Premier League's set-piece kings, but Newcastle have clearly been working on dead-ball situations on the training ground. It paid dividends in Saturday's 4-0 hammering of Leicester City, as the Magpies scored a pair of goals through set-piece routines that were clearly rehearsed. Leicester didn't exactly make it difficult for them - there's a reason why the Foxes have conceded the second-most goals in the league - but the tallies were a clear sign of progress for a Newcastle side that went into the match with just three goals from set pieces, one of the worst returns in the division. Saturday's goals, together with a similarly well-worked marker in last month's draw against Crystal Palace, are signs of progress and worth monitoring. The coaching staff will be delighted.</p><p><strong>O'Neil loses control of Wolves</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760741/cropped_GettyImages-2190031367.jpg?ts=1734296964" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760741/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190031367.jpg?ts=1734296964 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760741/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190031367.jpg?ts=1734296964 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760741/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190031367.jpg?ts=1734296964 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760741/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190031367.jpg?ts=1734296964 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/760741/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190031367.jpg?ts=1734296964 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Carl Recine / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Things change quickly in the Premier League. Gary O'Neil and his staff signed four-year contract extensions in August, with the Wolves brass seemingly confident he could build on last season's 14th-place finish. Instead, things devolved rapidly in the other direction. Wolves have won just two league matches this campaign, and Saturday's crushing late loss to fellow relegation battlers Ipswich Town was the last straw, resulting in the 41-year-old bench boss being fired. Results were only part of the issue. O'Neil had clearly lost the ability to handle the spiraling situation, as each of the team's last two defeats were followed by on-pitch meltdowns from players. In predictable fashion, Wolves are <a href="https://x.com/David_Ornstein/status/1868291308818972859">reportedly</a> eyeing a Portuguese tactician, Vitor Pereira, to step in and lift the team out of the relegation zone. Restoring discipline will be the first task for whoever comes in for this rescue mission.</p><h3>Star performer 🌟</h3><p><strong>Amad Diallo (Manchester United)</strong></p><p>Why has it taken so long for someone to trust Diallo? United boss Ruben Amorim immediately identified the right-winger as one of the club's most interesting players, trying him out at the wing-back position before restoring him to his natural attacking role this week.</p><p>Diallo's incredible run of form culminated in a match-winning effort against Manchester City on Sunday. He was the most dangerous player in a match low on individual quality. He routinely made runs behind City's defense, forced the penalty that leveled the match, and scored the winner in the 90th minute.</p><p>There's no way Diallo would've evolved under Erik ten Hag. He rarely completed a full 90 minutes and never had a significant run of matches under the Dutch coach. Ruud van Nistelrooy seemed to notice something in Diallo once he took over as interim manager, and Amorim built on Van Nistelrooy's discovery, finding utility in his breathless work rate. Diallo is willing to play anywhere, and perhaps that's because he appreciates how difficult it is to get playing time at a club like United. Being sent on loan to Rangers and Sunderland can certainly humble a player.</p><h3>Best XI 😎</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=303919:Pickford,23354:Young,793907:Chalobah,683402:Adarabioyo,662428:Robinson,1089691:Anderson,956683:Gravenberch,1070052:Amad,493165:Maddison,771294:Sarr,690107:Isak&amp;formation=4-2-3-1&amp;lineupTitle=Matchweek%2016" srcset="https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=303919:Pickford,23354:Young,793907:Chalobah,683402:Adarabioyo,662428:Robinson,1089691:Anderson,956683:Gravenberch,1070052:Amad,493165:Maddison,771294:Sarr,690107:Isak&amp;formation=4-2-3-1&amp;lineupTitle=Matchweek%2016 220w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=303919:Pickford,23354:Young,793907:Chalobah,683402:Adarabioyo,662428:Robinson,1089691:Anderson,956683:Gravenberch,1070052:Amad,493165:Maddison,771294:Sarr,690107:Isak&amp;formation=4-2-3-1&amp;lineupTitle=Matchweek%2016 320w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=303919:Pickford,23354:Young,793907:Chalobah,683402:Adarabioyo,662428:Robinson,1089691:Anderson,956683:Gravenberch,1070052:Amad,493165:Maddison,771294:Sarr,690107:Isak&amp;formation=4-2-3-1&amp;lineupTitle=Matchweek%2016 640w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=303919:Pickford,23354:Young,793907:Chalobah,683402:Adarabioyo,662428:Robinson,1089691:Anderson,956683:Gravenberch,1070052:Amad,493165:Maddison,771294:Sarr,690107:Isak&amp;formation=4-2-3-1&amp;lineupTitle=Matchweek%2016 768w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=303919:Pickford,23354:Young,793907:Chalobah,683402:Adarabioyo,662428:Robinson,1089691:Anderson,956683:Gravenberch,1070052:Amad,493165:Maddison,771294:Sarr,690107:Isak&amp;formation=4-2-3-1&amp;lineupTitle=Matchweek%2016 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p>(Source: <a href="https://www.fotmob.com/">FotMob</a>)</p><h3>Highlight of the weekend 🎥</h3><p>We're not going to let Aston Villa's loss against Nottingham Forest distract us from this otherworldly one-handed save by Emiliano Martinez.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">STOP WHAT YOU ARE DOING AND WATCH THIS EMI MARTINEZ SAVE 🙌 <a href="https://t.co/IDIbildHLP">pic.twitter.com/IDIbildHLP</a></p>— Men in Blazers (@MenInBlazers) <a href="https://twitter.com/MenInBlazers/status/1868007499284328535?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Stat of the weekend 🔢</h3><p>Extend the man's contract already, Liverpool.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Mohamed Salah now has 100 assists for Liverpool in all competitions. <br><br>Since his debut for the club in August 2017, only three players have made more in Europe's Top Five Leagues (all comps):<br><br>Kevin De Bruyne 132<br>Thomas Müller 118<br>Lionel Messi 108 <a href="https://t.co/3yOl2PWNtm">pic.twitter.com/3yOl2PWNtm</a></p>— Opta Analyst (@OptaAnalyst) <a href="https://twitter.com/OptaAnalyst/status/1867967680331816970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Social media moment 📱</h3><p>Sean Dyche walked so Mikel Arteta could run.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">“Ah you think corners are your ally? You merely adopted the set-piece. I was born in it, moulded by it. I didn't see the open play xG until I was an experienced Premier League manager, by then it was nothing to me but blinding" <a href="https://t.co/GrbCdb1uQH">pic.twitter.com/GrbCdb1uQH</a></p>— James Pendleton (@jpends_) <a href="https://twitter.com/jpends_/status/1868057038192058758?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Where we stand 👀</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pos.</th>
<th>Club</th>
<th>Played</th>
<th>GD</th>
<th>Points</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>1.</strong></td>
<td>Liverpool</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>+18</td>
<td>36</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>2.</strong></td>
<td>Chelsea</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>+18</td>
<td>34</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>3.</strong></td>
<td>Arsenal</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>+14</td>
<td>30</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>4.</strong></td>
<td>Nottingham Forest</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>+2</td>
<td>28</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5.</td>
<td>Manchester City</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>+5</td>
<td>27</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6.</td>
<td>Aston Villa</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>-1</td>
<td>25</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7.</td>
<td>Bournemouth</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>+3</td>
<td>24</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8.</td>
<td>Fulham</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>+2</td>
<td>24</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9.</td>
<td>Brighton</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>+1</td>
<td>24</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10.</td>
<td>Tottenham</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>+17</td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11.</td>
<td>Brentford</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>+2</td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12.</td>
<td>Newcastle</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>+2</td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13.</td>
<td>Manchester United</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>+2</td>
<td>22</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14.</td>
<td>West Ham</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>-8</td>
<td>18</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15.</td>
<td>Crystal Palace</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>-4</td>
<td>16</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>16.</td>
<td>Everton</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>-7</td>
<td>15</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17.</td>
<td>Leicester</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>-13</td>
<td>14</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>18.</strong></td>
<td>Ipswich Town</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>-12</td>
<td>12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>19.</strong></td>
<td>Wolves</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>-16</td>
<td>9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>20.</strong></td>
<td>Southampton</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>-25</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>View more stats <a href="thescore:///epl/leaders">here</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29449547/related

EPL Review: Man United's patience rewarded in crisis derby

Southampton fired manager Russell Martin after suffering their heaviest loss of the season Sunday...

<p>Southampton <a href="https://www.southamptonfc.com/en/news/article/a-statement-from-the-board-of-southampton-fc">fired</a> manager Russell Martin after suffering their heaviest loss of the season Sunday against Tottenham Hotspur.</p><p>Sunday's 5-0 shellacking at St. Mary's left last-placed Southampton nine points adrift of safety in the Premier League table.</p><p>The club's Under-21 manager, Simon Rusk, has assumed head coaching duties on an interim basis.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Martin wanted to bring attractive football to Southampton but ultimately couldn't get the balance right. His team won just once in 16 Premier League matches while posting a dismal minus-25 goal differential.</p><p>Fans left midway through Sunday's game and chanted for the club to fire the 38-year-old who secured Premier League promotion last season.</p><p>"Going into the start of the season, we all knew the challenges that we would face this year as we readjusted to life in the top flight, competing in the best and most competitive league in the world. However, the reality of our situation is clear," Southampton said in a statement.</p><p>"The board have supported Russell and his staff and been open and transparent regarding our expectations. We have all been on the same page in recognizing the urgency of needing results to improve."</p><p>Southampton made the coaching change on the same day relegation rivals Wolverhampton parted with manager Gary O'Neil. Wolves are four points ahead of Southampton in 19th place.</p>

SOUTHAMPTON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 15: Russell Martin manager / head coach of Southampton reacts during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Tottenham Hotspur FC at St Mary's Stadium on December 15, 2024 in Southampton, England.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29449044/related

Southampton fire Russell Martin after blowout loss to Tottenham

Manchester United forwards Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho were left at home for Sunday's ...

<p>Manchester United forwards <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/66886" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/66886">Marcus Rashford</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/188378" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/188378">Alejandro Garnacho</a> were left at home for Sunday's Manchester derby.</p><p>Amorim told <a href="https://www.skysports.com/football/live-blog/11661/13272048/man-city-vs-man-utd-live?postid=8789245#liveblog-body">Sky Sports</a> that he evaluated "training, performance, game performance, engagement with the teammates, (and) pushing the teammates up" before deciding to exclude them from the matchday squad.</p><p>Amorim also handed starts to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/13942" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/13942">Harry Maguire</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/96214" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/96214">Mason Mount</a> while dropping Casemiro to the bench.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I don't want to send a message. It's simply an evaluation, and they know it," Amorim said. "The players are really, really smart. Everybody understands my decision. I have to choose. It's just simple selection.</p><p>"The context is difficult. We have to win games and we have a difficult situation. I pay attention to everything, the way you eat, the way you put on your clothes to go the game. Everything. I make my evaluation and then I have to decide. I have a lot of players to choose."</p><p>Manchester United went on to claim a stunning 2-1 win at the Etihad Stadium, scoring two quick goals in the closing minutes to come from behind and hand Pep Guardiola's side another defeat.</p>

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 17: Marcus Rashford of MAnchester United celebrates with teammate Alejandro Garnacho after scoring his side's sixth goal during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Manchester United and Barnsley at Old Trafford on September 17, 2024 in Manchester, England.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29441001/related

Amorim drops Rashford, Garnacho from squad for Manchester derby

Premier League referee David Coote was fired by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PG...

<p>Premier League referee David Coote was fired by the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) on Monday after an investigation into allegations of wrongdoing - including derogatory comments he made about former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp and apparent drug use during Euro 2024 - found he breached the terms of his contract.</p><p>Coote was initially suspended Nov. 11 after appearing to slander Klopp on video. UEFA then <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3128261" href="https://thescore.com/news/3128261">opened a separate investigation</a> when footage appeared to show Coote snorting white powder during the Euros, where he served as a video assistant referee.</p><p>"David Coote's actions were found to be in serious breach of the provisions of his employment contract, with his position deemed untenable," PGMOL <a href="https://x.com/FA_PGMOL/status/1866151530086248544">said</a> in a statement. "Supporting David Coote continues to be important to us and we remain committed to his welfare."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 42-year-old, who has denied all wrongdoing, can appeal the decision.</p><p>Shortly after Coote officiated his last match - a 2-0 win for Liverpool on Nov. 9 against Aston Villa - the PGMOL said it was reviewing a now-viral video in which Coote <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3126510" href="https://thescore.com/news/3126510">called</a> Klopp "arrogant" during an expletive-laden rant against him.</p><p>Coote seemed to refer to Klopp's behavior during Liverpool's 1-1 draw with Burnley in July 2020. Klopp later criticized Coote for allowing a number of fouls against Liverpool to go unpunished.</p><p>"I've got no interest in speaking to someone who's f-----g arrogant," Coote's recorded as saying in a video released by <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5917480/2024/12/09/david-coote-verdict-pgmol/">The Sun</a>. "I do my best not to speak to him. You can see me there with mask on. Social distancing 10 metres apart. But my God, German c---. F--- me."</p><p>The FA opened its own investigation and is also reviewing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3141805" href="https://thescore.com/news/3141805">allegations</a> Coote discussed booking then-Leeds player <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///natleaguec/players/51783" href="https://thescore.com/natleaguec/players/51783">Ezgjan Alioski</a> with a fan before a game against West Bromwich Albion in the second-tier Championship in October 2019.</p><p>"I hope you backed as discussed," Coote allegedly told the individual after giving the player a yellow card.</p><p>The FA's investigation remains open.</p><p>Coote insisted any issues in his personal life "never affected" his on-field decisions.</p><p>"I have always held the integrity of the game in the highest regard, refereeing matches impartially and to the best of my ability," he said.</p><p>Coote officiated 112 Premier League matches, including three Liverpool fixtures. He also oversaw five Liverpool matches in cup competitions.</p>

Match referee David Coote (left) speaks with Luton Town's Gabriel Osho during the Premier League match at Molineux Stadium, Wolverhampton. Picture date: Saturday April 27, 2024.

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EPL referee Coote fired after investigation into misconduct

<p><em>Following every weekend of Premier League action, theScore examines the most important developments and biggest talking points to emerge from the slate of matches. Below, we dissect Matchweek 15 of the 2024-25 season.</em></p><h3>Are Chelsea true title contenders?</h3><p>The results say they are. Chelsea are second in the Premier League, just four points behind leaders Liverpool, and are well ahead of expectations. Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernandez are turning in match-winning performances, and the likes of Jadon Sancho and Nicolas Jackson are starting to nail down regular roles in the team. The trajectory of the club has crossed a key threshold, and it would be silly to deny it.</p><p>But Sunday's 4-2 comeback win over Tottenham Hotspur doesn't suddenly make them title contenders. Liverpool have a game in hand, and Chelsea have a number of shortcomings to overcome.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Marc Cucurella slipped on the plays that led to Tottenham's first two goals, and giveaways by goalkeeper Robert Sanchez and defender Benoit Badiashile could've heaped misery on Chelsea when the tide was turning in Sunday's London derby. The Blues also needed two penalties - which Spurs gift-wrapped in the most careless possible way - to ignite the comeback effort.</p><p>"Arsenal, (Manchester) City, and Liverpool probably don't slide - like Cucurella did," head coach Enzo Maresca <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/live/c4g2pd77dert?post=asset%3Ad88ac3d2-507f-40c7-a2ff-aeed3f4636e9#post">said</a> afterward. "To be serious, we are not ready. We are far from these teams, but we focus on (it) day by day and (are) trying to improve the team."</p><p>Chelsea play an open and risky transition game, and as rewarding as it can be, it has its defects. Sometimes you see Moises Caicedo scrambling, and sometimes he lunges, and sometimes he gets away with a studs-up challenge, as he did Sunday. Chelsea's game is built around moments, and they can go both ways. Chelsea have already committed five errors leading to goals - higher than any other top-five team and a clear sign that they still struggle to control matches. The majority of Chelsea's wins have also come against teams in the bottom half of the table.</p><p>None of that is to say Chelsea can't win the title. But there's a lot to do before they can truly consider themselves a complete package.</p><h3>Quick free-kicks 📝</h3><p><strong>Unsung coaching heroes</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759590/cropped_GettyImages-2188885195.jpg?ts=1733687626" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759590/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188885195.jpg?ts=1733687626 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759590/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188885195.jpg?ts=1733687626 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759590/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188885195.jpg?ts=1733687626 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759590/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188885195.jpg?ts=1733687626 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759590/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188885195.jpg?ts=1733687626 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Robin Jones - AFC Bournemouth / AFC Bournemouth / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Besides players underperforming, there's another big reason why teams like Newcastle, Manchester United, and Tottenham are struggling outside the top 10. The trio should be competing for places in Europe. Instead, they can barely string two wins together. While they've toiled, teams like Bournemouth, Brentford, and Fulham have stepped up, overachieving with squads that aren't nearly as expensive. The difference comes down to coaching. Unlike the three high spenders, stability on the touchline has benefited Bournemouth's Andoni Iraola, Brentford's Thomas Frank, and Fulham's Marco Silva. Their innovations and impact aren't talked about nearly enough. But after a weekend in which Brentford battered Newcastle, Bournemouth came from behind to beat Ipswich Town, and Fulham held title contenders Arsenal, it's time to give credit where it's due to the Premier League's most underrated coaches.</p><p><strong>Man United their own worst enemy</strong></p><p>Ruben Amorim has a massive task on his hands to turn Manchester United around. He knows that. It's going to take time and a lot of work. One thing he can't legislate for, though, is basic errors from his players. A brutal giveaway inside his own half from Bruno Fernandes, together with some truly confounding goalkeeping by Andre Onana, gifted Nottingham Forest one goal Saturday. Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez simply watched on, as if frozen in time, as a looping Chris Wood header, moving almost in slow motion, nestled into the net for another. The latter stood up as the winner at Old Trafford, consigning Amorim to his second consecutive defeat. Getting the fallen club back to the top is going to be difficult enough for the Portuguese tactician. It'll be downright impossible if his players keep torpedoing their own progress with the types of mistakes commonly seen in semi-pro leagues.</p><p><strong>'Season to suffer'</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759591/cropped_GettyImages-2188715340.jpg?ts=1733687707" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759591/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188715340.jpg?ts=1733687707 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759591/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188715340.jpg?ts=1733687707 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759591/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188715340.jpg?ts=1733687707 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759591/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188715340.jpg?ts=1733687707 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759591/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188715340.jpg?ts=1733687707 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ryan Pierse / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Manchester City didn't lose this weekend. Considering how things have gone for much of the last month, that's actually an improvement. It's also a sad statement that reflects the reality at the club right now. Pep Guardiola <a href="https://www.premierleague.com/news/4190268?sf275709994=1">admitted</a> after Saturday's 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace that this is Man City's "season to suffer." Whether this team is built for that remains to be seen. Most of these players have won everything already. Sure, they've had to battle extremely hard in previous seasons, fending off fierce title challengers and winning huge matches. But they've never had to deal with a soul-sapping rut like this. Even Guardiola himself isn't sure if he and his squad are capable of digging themselves out of this hole. One thing that would help right off the bat: stop conceding early. Man City have given up a league-high seven goals in the first 15 minutes of matches this season. Always playing from behind isn't a recipe for success.</p><p><strong>Good luck, schedule-makers</strong></p><p>By the Premier League's <a href="https://www.premierleague.com/news/261976">own admission</a>, compiling the annual fixture list is a "meticulous and painstaking process that lasts almost half a year." One of the unintended byproducts of the current schedule, already loaded to the gills with matches, is the difficulty of rescheduling postponed games. With the top clubs seemingly in action every three days, finding a decent window to squeeze in an extra contest is no simple task. The Merseyside derby, called off Saturday due to Storm Darragh, will likely have to be shoehorned into a rare midweek opening somewhere after the jam-packed holiday slate. An already tricky test for Liverpool will be that little bit more challenging.</p><h3>Star performer 🌟</h3><p><strong>Jamie Vardy (Leicester City)</strong></p><p>Vardy is the definition of a talisman.</p><p>Leicester City's season hasn't gone to plan. However, Sunday's come-from-behind draw with Brighton &amp; Hove Albion, which followed an impressive win over West Ham, suggests momentum may finally be shifting in the Foxes' favor. And it was all thanks to their trusted striker.</p><p>With the Foxes teetering toward a defeat, the 37-year-old turned back the clock with a vintage display in the closing stages that was reminiscent of the performances that helped Leicester City win a shock Premier League title almost a decade ago.</p><p>As he's done so often over the years, Vardy brought the King Power Stadium to its feet after cutting Leicester's deficit in half in the 86th minute. The confidence-booster led to bigger celebrations five minutes later after Vardy set up the equalizer to become the second-oldest player to score and assist in a Premier League match.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Jamie Vardy's last 7 games for Leicester... <br><br>• ⚽️ vs Southampton<br>• ⚽️ vs Nottingham Forest<br>• 🅰️ vs Ipswich<br>• ❌ vs Chelsea <br>• 🅰️ vs Brentford <br>• ⚽️ vs West Ham<br>• 🅰️⚽️ vs Brighton<br><br>37-years-old. Incredible. 👏 <a href="https://t.co/tAjtDh0AdN">pic.twitter.com/tAjtDh0AdN</a></p>— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/eurofootcom/status/1865789410551148704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 8, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Ten years after Ruud van Nistelrooy watched Vardy break his revered Premier League scoring record, Leicester's new coach is now relying on the revived veteran, who has six goals and three assists this season, to keep Leicester from dropping right back down to the Championship.</p><h3>Best XI 😎</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=317564:Arrizabalaga,955139:Lamptey,766611:Milenkovic,950485:Lacroix,966026:Maatsen,816325:Kamara,923312:Mbeumo,789502:Gibbs-White,1096353:Palmer,846381:Sancho,286119:Vardy&amp;formation=4-1-4-1" srcset="https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=317564:Arrizabalaga,955139:Lamptey,766611:Milenkovic,950485:Lacroix,966026:Maatsen,816325:Kamara,923312:Mbeumo,789502:Gibbs-White,1096353:Palmer,846381:Sancho,286119:Vardy&amp;formation=4-1-4-1 220w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=317564:Arrizabalaga,955139:Lamptey,766611:Milenkovic,950485:Lacroix,966026:Maatsen,816325:Kamara,923312:Mbeumo,789502:Gibbs-White,1096353:Palmer,846381:Sancho,286119:Vardy&amp;formation=4-1-4-1 320w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=317564:Arrizabalaga,955139:Lamptey,766611:Milenkovic,950485:Lacroix,966026:Maatsen,816325:Kamara,923312:Mbeumo,789502:Gibbs-White,1096353:Palmer,846381:Sancho,286119:Vardy&amp;formation=4-1-4-1 640w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=317564:Arrizabalaga,955139:Lamptey,766611:Milenkovic,950485:Lacroix,966026:Maatsen,816325:Kamara,923312:Mbeumo,789502:Gibbs-White,1096353:Palmer,846381:Sancho,286119:Vardy&amp;formation=4-1-4-1 768w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=317564:Arrizabalaga,955139:Lamptey,766611:Milenkovic,950485:Lacroix,966026:Maatsen,816325:Kamara,923312:Mbeumo,789502:Gibbs-White,1096353:Palmer,846381:Sancho,286119:Vardy&amp;formation=4-1-4-1 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p>(Source: <a href="https://www.fotmob.com/">FotMob</a>)</p><h3>Highlight of the weekend 🎥</h3><p>Bryan Mbeumo is having the season of his life. Through just 15 matches, the Brentford talisman has already matched his career high for goals in a Premier League campaign, registering his ninth tally in Saturday's win over Newcastle. He did it in style, too, helping the Bees maintain their status as the best home team in the country.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">🧑‍🎨 Bryan Mbeumo, a master of his art <a href="https://t.co/YBuWzOaL6v">pic.twitter.com/YBuWzOaL6v</a></p>— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrentfordFC/status/1865516642073194893?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Stat of the weekend 🔢</h3><p>We're still trying to figure out how, exactly, Andre Onana <em>didn't</em> save this. Even the commentators, absolutely perplexed, thought there must have been a deflection to wrong-foot the goalkeeper. There was no deflection.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">A goalkeeper would be expected to save this shot 97% of the time, according to xGOT. <a href="https://t.co/9CVTvpXrMt">pic.twitter.com/9CVTvpXrMt</a></p>— The xG Philosophy (@xGPhilosophy) <a href="https://twitter.com/xGPhilosophy/status/1865467570540642607?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Social media moment 📱</h3><p>If you swapped doppelgangers Jota Silva and Jack Grealish, would anybody at their respective clubs even notice?</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">31' 🟨 Jota Silva is booked for elbowing Garnacho. <br><br>🔴 1-1 🌳 | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUFC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MUNNFO?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MUNNFO</a> <a href="https://t.co/wyM7qw5dFT">pic.twitter.com/wyM7qw5dFT</a></p>— Stretford Paddock (@StretfordPaddck) <a href="https://twitter.com/StretfordPaddck/status/1865457376788189461?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Where we stand 👀</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pos.</th>
<th>Club</th>
<th>Played</th>
<th>GD</th>
<th>Points</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1.</td>
<td>Liverpool</td>
<td>14</td>
<td>+18</td>
<td>35</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2.</td>
<td>Chelsea</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>+17</td>
<td>31</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3.</td>
<td>Arsenal</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>+14</td>
<td>29</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4.</td>
<td>Manchester City</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>+6</td>
<td>27</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5.</td>
<td>Nottingham Forest</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>+1</td>
<td>25</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6.</td>
<td>Aston Villa</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>25</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7.</td>
<td>Brighton</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>+3</td>
<td>24</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8.</td>
<td>Bournemouth</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>+3</td>
<td>24</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9.</td>
<td>Brentford</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>3</td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10.</td>
<td>Fulham</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>+2</td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11.</td>
<td>Tottenham</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>+12</td>
<td>20</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12.</td>
<td>Newcastle</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>-2</td>
<td>20</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13.</td>
<td>Manchester United</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>+1</td>
<td>19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14.</td>
<td>West Ham</td>
<td>14</td>
<td>-9</td>
<td>15</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15.</td>
<td>Everton</td>
<td>14</td>
<td>-7</td>
<td>14</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>16.</td>
<td>Leicester</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>-9</td>
<td>14</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17.</td>
<td>Crystal Palace</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>-6</td>
<td>13</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>18.</td>
<td>Ipswich Town</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>-13</td>
<td>9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>19.</td>
<td>Wolves</td>
<td>14</td>
<td>-14</td>
<td>9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>20.</td>
<td>Southampton</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>-20</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>View more stats <a href="thescore:///epl/leaders">here</a>.</em></p>

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EPL Review: Chelsea move into title conversation, Vardy's still got it

Liverpool have finally offered leading scorer Mohamed Salah a new contract, The Athletic's David ...

<p>Liverpool have finally offered leading scorer <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///chlg/players/17673" href="https://thescore.com/chlg/players/17673">Mohamed Salah</a> a new contract, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5976974/2024/12/08/mohamed-salah-contract-liverpool/">The Athletic's David Ornstein</a> reports.</p><p>Sources didn't reveal the terms of the offer to Ornstein or signal that an agreement is near. The offer is considered an opening bid, and Salah may or may not accept it.</p><p>The 32-year-old's current deal expires in June. FIFA rules allow him to sign a pre-contract agreement with clubs outside of England as soon as January.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Athletic's Simon Hughes <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3147410" href="https://thescore.com/news/3147410">reported</a> last week that Salah would accept a one-year deal from Liverpool.</p><p>It's unclear whether Salah would accept less than his current salary of £350,000 per week.</p><p>Salah said last month he was disappointed that Liverpool hadn't formally offered him a new contract, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3140986" href="https://thescore.com/news/3140986">saying</a> he was "probably more out than in." Liverpool coach Arne Slot tried to contain speculation over Salah's future, saying the Egyptian star was "more in than out" of his lineup.</p><p>Despite all the chatter, Salah has produced some of his best football in the early months of the campaign: He has 15 goals and 12 assists across all competitions, including the two he scored in the topsy-turvy 3-3 draw at Newcastle United on Wednesday.</p><p>Liverpool lead the Premier League by four points and have a game in hand on second-place Chelsea.</p>

LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 27: Mohamed Salah of Liverpool celebrates after scoring a goal to make it 2-2 during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Liverpool FC at Emirates Stadium on October 27, 2024 in London, England.

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Report: Liverpool offer Salah new contract

<p><em>Following every weekend of Premier League action, theScore examines the most important developments and biggest talking points to emerge from the slate of matches. Below, we dissect Matchweek 13 of the 2024-25 season.</em></p><h3>Does Guardiola have any answers?</h3><p>Midway through Liverpool's otherwise dominant 2-0 win over Manchester City, the champions finally emerged from the rubble of an utterly one-sided opening half-hour with the ball. A lifeline was suddenly up for grabs. Liverpool had missed several chances to make it a blowout and began to retreat into their own end. But the opportunity came and went without much ado. City couldn't summon anything. They had 63% of possession between their first attempt on goal in the 38th minute and Mohamed Salah's game-clinching 78th-minute penalty but couldn't get a shot on target in that time. They couldn't disturb Liverpool, even as the hosts challenged them to do so.</p><p>Guardiola tried to inspire change beforehand, dropping Ederson for backup 'keeper Stefan Ortega and defender Josko Gvardiol for Nathan Ake. Removing Ederson and Gvardiol from the firing line seemed like a responsible choice; their errors precipitated at least a couple of City's recent losses.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Neither Ortega nor Ake could reset the side. Ortega conceded a penalty when he was left all alone with two Liverpool players, while Ake did his best to resist the press on his own. They just couldn't prevent the mistakes that have cost City over the past five weeks from repeating themselves here. They gave away the ball cheaply, attempted low-percentage passes at the wrong time, and committed silly challenges early on. The self-belief that made City seem unstoppable in previous years deserted them yet again.</p><p>Guardiola <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3146465" href="https://thescore.com/news/3146465">said</a> afterward that City will have to hit the reset button and start from scratch. But he's rarely had to do that with any team he's coached. He's not used to doing something so drastic midseason. And he's never had to rethink his entire approach amid such a startling downturn. City haven't won in seven games, and it's not unreasonable to think they could lose many more before the end of the season. They face sixth-placed Nottingham Forest on Wednesday and then have a tough run of fixtures against Juventus, Manchester United, and Aston Villa. That leads them like a pig to slaughter into the meat grinder that is the festive period, which is uncompromising at the best of times.</p><p>Now is probably the worst time to have an existential crisis.</p><h3>Quick free-kicks 📝</h3><p><strong>Statement win for Amorim's United</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758279/cropped_GettyImages-2187190636.jpg?ts=1733068357" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758279/w220xh124_GettyImages-2187190636.jpg?ts=1733068357 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758279/w320xh180_GettyImages-2187190636.jpg?ts=1733068357 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758279/w640xh360_GettyImages-2187190636.jpg?ts=1733068357 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758279/w768xh432_GettyImages-2187190636.jpg?ts=1733068357 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758279/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2187190636.jpg?ts=1733068357 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Ruben Amorim's angry reactions were telling at the start of Manchester United's clash against Everton. With the visitors regularly venturing into United's half, Amorim went ballistic on a few of his players for underperforming in one of the most winnable games of the season. His patience was clearly running out just three matches into his United career. But after playing like Erik ten Hag's timid side to start the match, United started to show signs that Amorim's philosophies were taking hold. Amad Diallo was outstanding, while Joshua Zirkzee - a target of one of Amorim's early outbursts - ended his 17-game drought with a brace in United's biggest league win since 2021. The next test for Amorim's United is performing just as well against better opponents than relegation-threatened teams like Everton.</p><p><strong>If at first you don't succeed ...</strong></p><p>Daniel Munoz showed the power of persistence Saturday. The Colombian missed two glorious chances in the first half against Newcastle, one an open-net sitter with his left foot on the counterattack, the other a close-range tap-in denied on the goal line by a diving Dan Burn. But the Crystal Palace wing-back wasn't deterred. He kept taking opportunities to creep in at the back post, and it paid dividends when he finally scored his first Premier League goal, a 94th-minute equalizer that got Palace out of the drop zone. "He scored the most difficult chance," manager Oliver Glasner said after the 1-1 draw, according to <a href="https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/crystal-palace-boss-oliver-glasner-195125686.html?guccounter=1&amp;guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly9jbXNhZG1pbi50aGVzY29yZS5jb20v&amp;guce_referrer_sig=AQAAABoxZvG_2o67V9IR1MhEd9CKldpDF316JC0rT94Lm_MqyV9kq_m0etTz0jVIwSVEayoqsAIuqfYMR89llBFm-Bl2P3f0sbjt6M_VGgWyQSc5VcF7ut1LF3VGdKk_BDdMUuXMayBa4bj0KTxuHEe3Nu0adoww-2pKtFhgy3bJB6rC">Yahoo Sports' Bobby Manzi</a>. "This shows his character, the character of the team, and the character of all of us."</p><p><strong>Kluivert holds his nerve</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758100/cropped_GettyImages-2187589859.jpg?ts=1732985902" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758100/w220xh124_GettyImages-2187589859.jpg?ts=1732985902 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758100/w320xh180_GettyImages-2187589859.jpg?ts=1732985902 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758100/w640xh360_GettyImages-2187589859.jpg?ts=1732985902 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758100/w768xh432_GettyImages-2187589859.jpg?ts=1732985902 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758100/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2187589859.jpg?ts=1732985902 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Robin Jones - AFC Bournemouth / AFC Bournemouth / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Penalties often get dismissed when looking at a player's body of work. They're the easiest chances in the game to convert - you really <em>shouldn't</em> be squandering a free attempt from 12 yards out. And yet, so many do. Justin Kluivert had no such trouble Saturday, though, becoming the first player in the Premier League era to convert three spot-kicks in the same game. That hasn't happened in England's top flight since 1957. This was a showcase of mental fortitude from the Bournemouth forward as much as anything. Mind games are a key part of penalties, which is why many teams use different takers if they get multiple opportunities from the spot within a match. But Kluivert didn't get in his own head trying to outwit Wolves' Jose Sa - and made history.</p><p><strong>Brentford love home cooking</strong></p><p>The Gtech Community Stadium is a fortress. Brentford have been the best home team in the league so far this season, racking up more points on their own turf than any club. Thomas Frank's men are pouring it on against everyone who visits west London. They're unbeaten in seven home matches, winning six of those games. The Bees' 4-1 win over Leicester City on Saturday, powered by a hat-trick from Kevin Schade, gave them 16 goals in their last four home games in the Premier League (all wins). The tests get tougher in the new year - Arsenal, Manchester City, and Liverpool make the trip in January. But Brentford's explosive attack, backed by boisterous support, can cause problems for anyone.</p><p><strong>RvN has huge task on his hands</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758105/cropped_GettyImages-2186992089.jpg?ts=1732988090" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758105/w220xh124_GettyImages-2186992089.jpg?ts=1732988090 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758105/w320xh180_GettyImages-2186992089.jpg?ts=1732988090 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758105/w640xh360_GettyImages-2186992089.jpg?ts=1732988090 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758105/w768xh432_GettyImages-2186992089.jpg?ts=1732988090 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/758105/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2186992089.jpg?ts=1732988090 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Steven Paston - PA Images / PA Images / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>One person in attendance at the Gtech on Saturday who likely didn't enjoy what he saw was Ruud van Nistelrooy. Watching from the stands just one day after being named Leicester manager, the Dutchman looked on as his new team fell apart after scoring the opening goal. Jamie Vardy, now 37, continues to provide production up front, and Facundo Buonanotte, on loan from Brighton, is making the leap, but there's little else to be excited about right now. The defense, which hasn't kept a clean sheet since Oct. 5, is slow and susceptible, while a lack of playmakers in central midfield puts all the burden on the aforementioned attack-minded players. There's plenty for the former Manchester United interim boss to fix.</p><h3>Star performer 🌟</h3><p><strong>Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)</strong></p><p>The Premier League record for assists in a single season is jointly held by Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne, who each recorded 20 helpers in 2002-03 and 2019-20, respectively. That mark is in serious jeopardy of being eclipsed.</p><p>Saka is already up to 10 assists in the league this season after another terrific display in Arsenal's 5-2 dismissal of a woeful West Ham United side. He's played just 12 matches. Saka set up two goals against the Hammers, won his team a penalty with crafty footwork inside the area, and converted another spot-kick that he himself helped earn.</p><p>Some may scoff and claim the English winger inflates his numbers because he takes set pieces, an area where Arsenal are more lethal than any team in the league; indeed, one of his assists Saturday was a corner kick that Gabriel Magalhaes headed home. But that would be doing him a disservice. One of the reasons Arsenal have scored 20 goals from the corners since the start of last season - more than any team - is <em>because</em> of Saka's wicked swinging delivery, which causes instant havoc. With Martin Odegaard back and looking to feed Saka at every chance, Arsenal are humming again after a recent blip.</p><p>If Saka does eclipse the assist record shared by Henry and De Bruyne, he'll be hoping for a slightly different outcome to Arsenal's season; neither Henry nor De Bruyne won the Premier League title in their record-setting campaigns.</p><h3>Best XI 😎</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=789571:S%C3%A1nchez,859282:Munoz,188058:Burn,1458711:Murillo,1070052:Amad,956683:Gravenberch,1137705:Fern%C3%A1ndez,873289:Cucurella,961995:Saka,1083796:Schade,794253:Kluivert&amp;formation=3-4-3&amp;lineupTitle=Matchweek%2013" srcset="https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=789571:S%C3%A1nchez,859282:Munoz,188058:Burn,1458711:Murillo,1070052:Amad,956683:Gravenberch,1137705:Fern%C3%A1ndez,873289:Cucurella,961995:Saka,1083796:Schade,794253:Kluivert&amp;formation=3-4-3&amp;lineupTitle=Matchweek%2013 220w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=789571:S%C3%A1nchez,859282:Munoz,188058:Burn,1458711:Murillo,1070052:Amad,956683:Gravenberch,1137705:Fern%C3%A1ndez,873289:Cucurella,961995:Saka,1083796:Schade,794253:Kluivert&amp;formation=3-4-3&amp;lineupTitle=Matchweek%2013 320w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=789571:S%C3%A1nchez,859282:Munoz,188058:Burn,1458711:Murillo,1070052:Amad,956683:Gravenberch,1137705:Fern%C3%A1ndez,873289:Cucurella,961995:Saka,1083796:Schade,794253:Kluivert&amp;formation=3-4-3&amp;lineupTitle=Matchweek%2013 640w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=789571:S%C3%A1nchez,859282:Munoz,188058:Burn,1458711:Murillo,1070052:Amad,956683:Gravenberch,1137705:Fern%C3%A1ndez,873289:Cucurella,961995:Saka,1083796:Schade,794253:Kluivert&amp;formation=3-4-3&amp;lineupTitle=Matchweek%2013 768w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=789571:S%C3%A1nchez,859282:Munoz,188058:Burn,1458711:Murillo,1070052:Amad,956683:Gravenberch,1137705:Fern%C3%A1ndez,873289:Cucurella,961995:Saka,1083796:Schade,794253:Kluivert&amp;formation=3-4-3&amp;lineupTitle=Matchweek%2013 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p>(Courtesy: <a href="https://www.fotmob.com/">FotMob</a>)</p><h3>Highlight of the weekend 🎥</h3><p>Justin Kluivert's historic hat-trick of penalties hogged all the headlines, but teammate Milos Kerkez scored the goal of the weekend with a left-footed rocket off a sweeping team move.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">A brilliant team move ✅<br>A rocket of a finish ✅<br>First ever <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/afcb?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#afcb</a> goal ✅<br><br>This goal has a bit of everything ️‍🔥 <a href="https://t.co/lujRmEBdB1">pic.twitter.com/lujRmEBdB1</a></p>— AFC Bournemouth 🍒 (@afcbournemouth) <a href="https://twitter.com/afcbournemouth/status/1863161870435373352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Stat of the weekend 🔢</h3><p>Arsenal have given traveling fans plenty to cheer about in 2024.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">5 - Arsenal have scored 5+ goals in five away games in all competitions in 2024, a joint-record by an English top-flight team in a single calendar year, along with Sunderland in 1892 and Manchester City in 1937. Relentless. <a href="https://t.co/1uWL5qexUr">pic.twitter.com/1uWL5qexUr</a></p>— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) <a href="https://twitter.com/OptaJoe/status/1862941743437508999?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Social media moment 📱</h3><p>Pep Guardiola channeled his inner Jose Mourinho with the pettiest of replies to chants of "you're getting sacked in the morning" during Manchester City's loss to Liverpool. "All of the stadiums want to sack me, starting with Brighton," he <a href="https://x.com/NBCSportsSoccer/status/1863309433264046553">said</a>. "Maybe they're right. Maybe I must be sacked for the result that we have, but I didn't expect (that) at Anfield. ... I didn't expect (it) from the people from Liverpool. But it's fine."</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Liverpool fans chant "you're getting sacked in the morning" to Pep Guardiola 🎶<br><br>Pep responds with six fingers, one for each Premier League title 😏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LIVMCI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LIVMCI</a> <a href="https://t.co/T4UUmuaNax">pic.twitter.com/T4UUmuaNax</a></p>— Premier League (@premierleague) <a href="https://twitter.com/premierleague/status/1863279288159522891?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 1, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Where we stand 👀</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pos.</th>
<th>Club</th>
<th>Played</th>
<th>GD</th>
<th>Points</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1.</td>
<td>Liverpool</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>+18</td>
<td>34</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2.</td>
<td>Arsenal</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>+12</td>
<td>25</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3.</td>
<td>Chelsea</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>+12</td>
<td>25</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4.</td>
<td>Brighton</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>+5</td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5.</td>
<td>Manchester City</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>+3</td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6.</td>
<td>Nottingham Forest</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>+3</td>
<td>22</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7.</td>
<td>Tottenham</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>+14</td>
<td>20</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8.</td>
<td>Brentford</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>3</td>
<td>20</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9.</td>
<td>Manchester United</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>4</td>
<td>19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10.</td>
<td>Fulham</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>+0</td>
<td>19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11.</td>
<td>Newcastle</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12.</td>
<td>Aston Villa</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>19</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13.</td>
<td>Bournemouth</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>18</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14.</td>
<td>West Ham</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>-7</td>
<td>15</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15.</td>
<td>Everton</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>-11</td>
<td>11</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>16.</td>
<td>Leicester</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>-11</td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17.</td>
<td>Crystal Palace</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>-7</td>
<td>9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>18.</td>
<td>Wolves</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>-10</td>
<td>9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>19.</td>
<td>Ipswich Town</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>-11</td>
<td>9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>20.</td>
<td>Southampton</td>
<td>13</td>
<td>-15</td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>View more stats <a href="thescore:///epl/leaders">here</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29269968/related

EPL Review: Liverpool plunge Man City into existential crisis

Bournemouth winger Justin Kluivert became the first player in Premier League history to score a h...

<p>Bournemouth winger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/90873" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/90873">Justin Kluivert</a> became the first player in Premier League history to score a hat-trick of penalties in a single match by converting all three of his attempts in Saturday's 4-2 win over Wolverhampton.</p><p>Teammate <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/167817" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/167817">Evanilson</a> won all three penalties, including two off Wolves goalkeeper <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/67717" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/67717">Jose Sa</a>. No other player has done that in a single Premier League game.</p><p>Only three others have scored a hat-trick of penalties in the history of English top-flight football. Ken Barnes was the last to do so in December 1957 for Manchester City.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Scoring three penalties in an English top-flight game:<br><br>Billy Walker for Aston Villa v Bradford in November 1921<br><br>Charlie Mitten for Man Utd v Aston Villa in March 1950<br><br>Ken Barnes for Man City v Everton in December 1957<br><br>Justin Kluivert for Bournemouth v Wolves in November 2024</p>— Will Jeanes (@will_jeanes) <a href="https://twitter.com/will_jeanes/status/1862899375988719990?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Kluivert came into Saturday's fixture with just two goals in 12 previous league appearances.</p><p>The win moves Bournemouth up to 11th place, while Wolves drop into the relegation zone in 18th.</p>

WOLVERHAMPTON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 30: Justin Kluivert of Bournemouth scores a hat-trick of penalties to make it 4-2 during the Premier League match between Wolverhampton Wanderers FC and AFC Bournemouth at Molineux on November 30, 2024 in Wolverhampton, England.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29237458/related

Kluivert becomes 1st player to score hat-trick of penalties in EPL history

The supersized Champions League resumed this week, with all 36 teams back in action over 48 frene...

<p><em>The supersized Champions League resumed this week, with all 36 teams back in action over 48 frenetic hours. Below, theScore's soccer editors reflect on Matchday 5 in Europe's premier club competition.</em></p><h3>Key takeaway from Matchday 5 📝</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753990/cropped_GettyImages-2183147874.jpg?ts=1730986225" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753990/w220xh124_GettyImages-2183147874.jpg?ts=1730986225 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753990/w320xh180_GettyImages-2183147874.jpg?ts=1730986225 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753990/w640xh360_GettyImages-2183147874.jpg?ts=1730986225 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753990/w768xh432_GettyImages-2183147874.jpg?ts=1730986225 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/753990/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2183147874.jpg?ts=1730986225 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Quality Sport Images / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Anthony Lopopolo</strong>: Kylian Mbappe is in a tailspin. He's scored two goals in his last nine matches and missed a penalty in Real Madrid's damaging 2-0 loss to Liverpool on Wednesday. His lukewarm display at Anfield comes as investigators in Sweden investigate rape allegations and while his team fights former club Paris Saint-Germain over unpaid bonuses. Liverpool right-back Conor Bradley was the latest opponent to get the best of Mbappe, keeping the Frenchman from turning on the afterburners and running into space Wednesday. While Mbappe is struggling to adapt to Madrid's system and finding it uncomfortable to flip between the left-wing and center-forward positions, even his pace and dribbling ability, widely considered his greatest strengths, have deserted him at times.</p><p><strong>Daniel Rouse</strong>: Let's give Angel Di Maria the respect he deserves. The winger, who turns 37 in February, produced two beautiful crosses to set up goals in Benfica's 3-2 comeback win over Monaco on Wednesday and now has the second-most assists in Champions League history with 41, one above Lionel Messi and one below Cristiano Ronaldo. His overall performance at Monaco was excellent - and this is far from a rare throwback performance in the autumn of his career. He hit a hat-trick, including a stunning bicycle kick, in a domestic cup game Saturday and scored twice in a 4-1 Primeira Liga dismissal of FC Porto before the international break.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><strong>Gianluca Nesci</strong>: Robert Lewandowski isn't slowing down any time soon. His two goals in Tuesday's win over Brest weren't particularly special - a penalty and a simple stoppage-time tally - but what they signified certainly was. The veteran striker, 36, became only the third player in Champions League history to crack the 100-goal barrier; he now sits at 101. Only Ronaldo (141) and Messi (129) have more. Company doesn't get more elite. One of the most lethal, consistent scorers of his generation, Lewandowski is soaring under Hansi Flick, and barring injury, there's no reason to think he can't mount a serious challenge to Messi's tally, which in itself is a huge achievement.</p><h3>This week's crisis club 😬</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757454/cropped_GettyImages-2187031294.jpg?ts=1732658251" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757454/w220xh124_GettyImages-2187031294.jpg?ts=1732658251 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757454/w320xh180_GettyImages-2187031294.jpg?ts=1732658251 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757454/w640xh360_GettyImages-2187031294.jpg?ts=1732658251 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757454/w768xh432_GettyImages-2187031294.jpg?ts=1732658251 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757454/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2187031294.jpg?ts=1732658251 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">James Gill - Danehouse / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Lopopolo</strong>: RB Leipzig. Apart from their second Champions League fixture, a seesaw 3-2 loss to Juventus, Leipzig have sleepwalked through each matchday. They lost all five games without much of a fight and were similarly absent-minded during Tuesday's 1-0 defeat to Inter, which the Nerazzurri should've won by more. Leipzig have certainly had one of the most difficult run of fixtures in the Champions League - they've faced Atletico Madrid, Liverpool, and Celtic - but the whole point of their operation is to disturb the football establishment. Losing five straight games to direct rivals is a horrific blow to their development. They're lucky they still have a chance to earn a playoff spot. But that would require an unlikely turnaround and a perfect three wins out of three against Aston Villa, Sporting CP, and Sturm Graz.</p><p><strong>Rouse</strong>: Manchester City. Pep Guardiola had already suffered the worst run of his managerial career with five straight defeats before Feyenoord's visit, but how Manchester City folded after merely having a three-goal lead trimmed to two in Tuesday's 3-3 draw makes it the most troubling performance of their recent skid. This slump is down to more than the absence of Rodri or Ruben Dias or anybody else - it's due to a myriad of reasons, including a lack of resilience, lethargy spreading through the squad, and, perhaps most surprisingly for a Guardiola side, flawed tactics. And there's little time available on the training ground to fix City's alarming issues.</p><p><strong>Nesci</strong>: Paris Saint-Germain. The wheels are off. Tuesday's 1-0 loss to Bayern Munich and Wednesday's subsequent results left PSG in 25th place in the table, outside the qualification places for the knockout stage. On paper, the remaining schedule is forgiving. Red Bull Salzburg are even worse off right now, Manchester City are in full-blown crisis, and Stuttgart, their final opponent on Matchday 8, just got smoked by Crvena Zvezda. But there's no reason to think PSG can beat any of them right now. A team that was seeking more harmony by allowing its high-profile stars to depart instead looks more disjointed and fragile than ever. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3141404" href="https://thescore.com/news/3141404">Internal belief</a> remains, but PSG are in real danger of being the biggest flop of the opening round.</p><h3>Player of the week 🌟</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754604/cropped_GettyImages-2184021404.jpg?ts=1731260619" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754604/w220xh124_GettyImages-2184021404.jpg?ts=1731260619 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754604/w320xh180_GettyImages-2184021404.jpg?ts=1731260619 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754604/w640xh360_GettyImages-2184021404.jpg?ts=1731260619 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754604/w768xh432_GettyImages-2184021404.jpg?ts=1731260619 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754604/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2184021404.jpg?ts=1731260619 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Quality Sport Images / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Lopopolo</strong>: Charles De Ketelaere. With two goals and three assists in Atalanta's 5-1 destruction of Swiss club Young Boys, De Ketelaere continued his transformation from bust to protagonist. AC Milan famously gave up on the Belgian midfielder after one season, sending him to Atalanta on a cut-rate loan deal that the club eventually made permanent last year. De Ketelaere has repaid them for their faith with 18 goals and 20 assists in one-and-a-half seasons. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini is unlocking De Ketelaere's potential, and it's resulting in a steady supply of defense-splitting passes and goal-creating actions in and around the penalty area.</p><p><strong>Rouse</strong>: Julian Alvarez. The Argentine forward has overcome a slow start following his summer move from Manchester City, firing in seven goals in his past 10 outings for Atletico Madrid. His free-kick and narrow-angle finish (after a powerful run and one-two with the manager's in-form son, Giuliano Simeone) were excellent against Sparta Prague on Tuesday. And aside from his two goals, he was a creative force with a game-high four key passes and two completed dribbles. He also kept possession well for a player who takes risks with the ball in attacking positions.</p><p><strong>Nesci</strong>: Florian Wirtz. Bayer Leverkusen teammate Alejandro Grimaldo also made a strong case, but Wirtz gets the nod after collecting his fourth Man of the Match award in five Champions League outings. The mesmerizing German, 21, scored twice and set up another in Leverkusen's 5-0 thumping of Red Bull Salzburg on Tuesday, helping his side get back on track after a humbling loss to Liverpool last time out. "We know how different he is for us," manager Xabi Alonso <a href="https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/leverkusen-boss-alonso-wants-help-wirtz-shine-more-after-huge-salzburg-win-2024-11-27/">said</a> of his prized player. Few other young stars possess the same type of game-breaking ability.</p><h3>Team that's back from the dead <a href="https://emojipedia.org/zombie">🧟</a>
</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757446/cropped_GettyImages-2186358293.jpg?ts=1732655009" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757446/w220xh124_GettyImages-2186358293.jpg?ts=1732655009 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757446/w320xh180_GettyImages-2186358293.jpg?ts=1732655009 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757446/w640xh360_GettyImages-2186358293.jpg?ts=1732655009 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757446/w768xh432_GettyImages-2186358293.jpg?ts=1732655009 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/757446/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2186358293.jpg?ts=1732655009 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">-STR / AFP / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Lopopolo</strong>: AC Milan. The Rossoneri have rattled off three consecutive Champions League wins for the first time in 18 years and scored three goals in three straight European Cup matches for the first time since 1989. These are serious records for the seven-time European champions to break, especially given the current state of this team. Milan lost their opening two matches of the league phase and currently sit in seventh place in Serie A. But something has clicked in Europe. While Tuesday's 3-2 result at Slovan Bratislava was far sweatier than their previous victories over Real Madrid and Club Brugge, Paulo Fonseca's men have created more chances in the Champions League than they have in recent Serie A fixtures and are now in a position to clinch a playoff spot for the knockout phase.</p><p><strong>Rouse</strong>: PSV Eindhoven. The Dutch champions' hopes of securing an automatic knockout berth were on life support. Twice. Two points from their opening three matches put them in serious trouble. Then, after a morale-boosting win over Girona earlier this month, PSV were two goals down at halftime of a Champions League home game for the first time since 2008. But three goals from the 87th minute onward - two from Malik Tillman and one from fellow U.S. international Ricardo Pepi - sensationally clinched a 3-2 win over Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday. The result lifted Peter Bosz's side two points behind the automatic spots with winnable games ahead.</p><p><strong>Nesci</strong>: Celtic. A 7-1 annihilation at the hands of Borussia Dortmund on Matchday 2 threatened to derail The Bhoys' Champions League adventure. Getting back on track after such a demoralizing defeat is no small feat, particularly for a club that's struggled to make headway in the competition for so long. But that's precisely what Brendan Rodgers' team has done. Celtic are right in the mix for a knockout place, four points above the elimination zone. They've "<a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/articles/cy0ge8nzrxko">grown and matured</a>" from past failures, as evidenced by Wednesday's draw with Club Brugge, in which the Scottish side recovered after a brutal own goal to earn what could end up being a critical point.</p><h3>Where we stand 👀</h3><p><em>Here's the complete league phase table after Matchday 5. Remember: The top eight teams advance directly to the last 16, and the sides that finish ninth to 24th head to the new knockout phase playoffs, two-legged ties that determine who joins the eight automatic qualifiers in the round of 16. The bottom 12 clubs are eliminated from the Champions League.</em></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Rank</th>
<th>Club</th>
<th>GD</th>
<th>Points</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>1</strong></td>
<td>Liverpool</td>
<td>+11</td>
<td>15</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>2</strong></td>
<td>Inter</td>
<td>+7</td>
<td>13</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>3</strong></td>
<td>Barcelona</td>
<td>+13</td>
<td>12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>4</strong></td>
<td>Borussia Dortmund</td>
<td>+10</td>
<td>12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>5</strong></td>
<td>Atalanta</td>
<td>+10</td>
<td>11</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>6</strong></td>
<td>Leverkusen</td>
<td>+6</td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>7</strong></td>
<td>Arsenal</td>
<td>+6</td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>8</strong></td>
<td>Monaco</td>
<td>+5</td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>9</em></td>
<td>Aston Villa</td>
<td>+5</td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>10</em></td>
<td>Sporting CP</td>
<td>+3</td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>11</em></td>
<td>Brest</td>
<td>+3</td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>12</em></td>
<td>Lille</td>
<td>+2</td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>13</em></td>
<td>Bayern Munich</td>
<td>+5</td>
<td>9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>14</em></td>
<td>Benfica</td>
<td>+3</td>
<td>9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>15</em></td>
<td>Atletico</td>
<td>+2</td>
<td>9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>16</em></td>
<td>AC Milan</td>
<td>+2</td>
<td>9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>17</em></td>
<td>Man City</td>
<td>+6</td>
<td>8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>18</em></td>
<td>PSV</td>
<td>+3</td>
<td>8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>19</em></td>
<td>Juventus</td>
<td>+2</td>
<td>8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>20</em></td>
<td>Celtic</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>21</em></td>
<td>Feyenoord</td>
<td>-3</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>22</em></td>
<td>Club Brugge</td>
<td>-3</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>23</em></td>
<td>Dinamo Zagreb</td>
<td>-5</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><em>24</em></td>
<td>Real Madrid</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>25</td>
<td>PSG</td>
<td>-3</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>26</td>
<td>Shakhtar</td>
<td>-4</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>27</td>
<td>Stuttgart</td>
<td>-7</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>28</td>
<td>Sparta Prague</td>
<td>-9</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>29</td>
<td>Sturm Graz</td>
<td>-4</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>30</td>
<td>Girona</td>
<td>-5</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>31</td>
<td>Crvena Zvezda</td>
<td>-8</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>32</td>
<td>Salzburg</td>
<td>-12</td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>33</td>
<td>Bologna</td>
<td>-6</td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>34</td>
<td>RB Leipzig</td>
<td>-6</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>35</td>
<td>S. Bratislava</td>
<td>-14</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>36</td>
<td>Young Boys</td>
<td>-15</td>
<td>0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure>

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