All posts by h716a5.icu

Earlier, Zampa and Maxwell tore through the West Indies top order, taking five wickets between them

Alex Malcolm22-Jul-20252:48

Watch – Russell leaves to a standing ovation after 15-ball 36

A blistering, record third-wicket stand for Australia between Josh Inglis and Cameron Green, combined with five wickets to Adam Zampa and Glenn Maxwell, denied Andre Russell a fairytale farewell to international cricket at Sabina Park and handed the visitors a 2-0 series lead.Player-of-the-Match Inglis smashed 78 not out off just 33 balls, with seven fours and five sixes, while Green made his second consecutive half-century, finishing on 56 off 33, to guide Australia to the target of 173 with eight wickets and 28 balls to spare after they were 42 for 2 in the powerplay.West Indies dropped six catches, including three in the seventh over of the chase. Inglis and Green were dropped twice each. Russell unfortunately dropped Inglis and Mitchell Marsh and conceded 16 in his last international over, having given West Indies hope with a remarkable 36 off 15 to rescue the home side from 99 for 5 in the first half.Earlier, Zampa and Maxwell had scythed through the top order, taking 3 for 29 and 2 for 15 respectively after West Indies had reached 63 for no loss by the eighth over thanks to Brandon King’s 51 from 36.0:57

Watch – Maxwell picks up two wickets in two overs

Australia spinners set the game upAustralia made the unusual move of picking two specialist spinners in the XI with an eye towards the T20 World Cup next year. Matthew Kuhnemann bowled three overs in the powerplay on T20I debut. His first two overs were excellent, conceding just ten runs, but the gamble from Marsh to bowl him a third straight did not pay off as King launched him for two sixes and two fours. It helped West Indies get to 49 in the powerplay with King facing 29 of those balls. He reached his 50 off 33. But Zampa and Maxwell tore through the West Indies top order straight out of the powerplay.King fell off the last ball of the eighth over to Zampa and Hope off the first of the ninth to Maxwell. They took 3 for 23 in four overs with brilliant control of length and line and some excellent help from their fielders. Marsh and Green took superb running catches back with the flight although Marsh dropped Roston Chase at cover off Zampa. The legspinner would later get his man in the 14th, when he also had Sherfane Rutherford miscuing to Green in the deep. It left West Indies 99 for 5 and Zampa with figures of 3 for 15 from three while Maxwell had 2 for 15 from two.1:41

Watch – Inglis scores an unbeaten 33-ball 78

Dre Russ puts on one final showThe crowd rose as one when Russell walked out to bat after earlier receiving a guard of honour from the two teams at a pre-match presentation. West Indies’ talisman and Jamaica’s hero rose to the occasion one more time, thumping three sixes in his first five balls off Ben Dwarshuis to get the home side back on track. He took down Zampa in the following over for a six and a four to dent the legspinner’s figures. Russell was 35 off 12 and threatening to destroy Australia in the death overs but he was undone by the guile of Nathan Ellis with Inglis holding a towering skier. Every Australian player shook Russell’s hand before he soaked in a standing ovation on the way off.Australia were a little shook thereafter. Both Cooper Connolly and Dwarshuis dropped simple catches in the deep while Mitchell Owen missed a simple run out to allow Gudakesh Motie to eke out 18 not out from nine balls and help West Indies post a defendable 172 for 8.2:01

Watch – Brandon King made 51 off 36 for West Indies

Contagious case of the dropsAustralia’s three drops were thoroughly outdone by West Indies, who clanged six in total and paid the price. The effectiveness of spin in Australia’s bowling innings saw the visitors promote Maxwell to open alongside Marsh for just the fourth time in his T20I career. The ploy was to attack Akeal Hosein in the powerplay. Maxwell switch-hit a six and a four off consecutive balls in the first over, justifying his promotion. But his struggles against pace and bounce were evident again as he edged Jason Holder behind for 12 off ten.Marsh was dropped twice in the fifth over off Hosein. First, Russell launched a Superman-style dive to his right at cover-point but could not hold on. Then Hope dropped a difficult bottom edge behind the stumps. Those misses did not prove as costly given Marsh skied Alzarri Joseph to Hope next over.But Motie’s first over, the seventh, proved the most expensive. Inglis sliced the left-arm spinner over cover and Russell again could not hold on running back with the flight. Green smashed a brutally struck return chance back at Motie next ball that he could not cling onto it. Two balls later, Hope dropped another one, this time an outside edge as Green tried to launch down the ground.Inglis and Green make them payThe cost of those drops was immediate. Green swept the next ball, the last of the seventh over, fine for four. Inglis flicked the first of the eighth for six before finding the boundary twice more in the same Joseph over. Inglis went up another gear with some extraordinary shot-making on a tricky surface. He lofted Motie off the back foot over cover and pulled him into the midwicket stand in the same over. He treated Russell with contempt to reach 50 off just 22 balls, launching him onto the roof over long-off before reverse ramping him twice in his final over in international cricket. Green joined the party launching four sixes himself.The final self-inflicted West Indies wound came when Holder dropped a skied ball from Inglis off his own bowling. At the start of the 12th over Australia had needed 73 off 54. By the end of the 14th, which cost Joseph 22 runs, Australia needed just four to win with 30 balls remaining after Green’s 50 had come off 28 deliveries.

Leeds United have a massive summer ahead of them in the coming months, with shrewd additions needed if the side are to survive the drop in the Premier League next season.

Daniel Farke has done a tremendous job leading the side back to the top-flight, but the real job starts now, with the German needing to keep the side in the division.

None of the last six sides to secure promotion back to such a division have been able to remain in it for longer than one season, highlighting the task on the Whites’ hands in 2025/26.

Whilst they secured the Championship title in 2024/25, multiple additions will be needed in key areas of the pitch this summer, with added depth and quality required if they are to buck the recent trend.

With the season less than two months away and with no additions made, the hierarchy need to start making moves to strengthen the first team squad, leading to countless names being thrown into the mix.

The latest on Leeds’ hunt for new additions this summer

All areas of the pitch have been subject to links for Leeds in the last couple of weeks, with Farke evidently plotting moves for numerous talents before the start of the season.

The likes of Fabio Silva, Douglas Luiz and Japhet Tanganga have all been mooted with moves to Yorkshire, but as of yet, no deals have edged closer for any of the aforementioned trio.

However, another name has entered the mix over the last couple of days, with Celtic centre-back Cameron Carter-Vickers firmly on their radar, according to 67 Hail Hail.

Their report claims that the Whites are battling Sunderland for the 27-year-old, with the Scottish side potentially holding out for a fee in the region of £25m for his signature.

It also states that the American could be tempted by a return to the Premier League, with the real expectation that he will leave Brendan Rodgers’ side before the end of the summer window.

Why Leeds’ £25m target would be a better option than Bijol

Over the last couple of days, Leeds have emerged as strong contenders to secure a deal for Udinese centre-back Jaka Bijol, with the Slovenian appearing a key target for Farke’s side.

The Whites have already had their first bid for the 26-year-old rejected, but remain in talks with the Serie A side over a move to land the defender ahead of the 2025/26.

It’s been reported that the first bid was in the region of £15m, but it remains to be seen how much the Italian side would be demanding to part ways with Bijol this window.

He’s been a key member of the side this campaign, featuring in all but four matches, highlighting his importance to the side and making it understandable that they don’t want to part ways with him this summer.

They should look past a move for the Slovenian and prioritise a deal for the Celtic star, offering a better defensive option ahead of their return to the Premier League.

However, when comparing his stats to those of Carter-Vickers this campaign, the American has massively outperformed him in numerous key areas, showcasing why the board needs to pursue a move for his signature.

The 27-year-old, who’s been labelled “the best centre-back outside the top five leagues” by Euro Expert, has completed more passes and made more progressive passes per 90 – showcasing his ability to play out from the back when needed.

Games played

30

34

Minutes played

2618

2963

Pass accuracy

94%

83%

Progressive passes

4.8

2.3

Tackles won

1.6

1.3

% of tackles won

71%

52%

Aerials won

74%

67%

He’s also starred out of possession, winning more tackles per 90, and making more interceptions, having the talent without the ball, massively aiding their survival battle next season.

The former Spurs star has also won more aerial battles, having an impact at both ends of the pitch, potentially offering a set-piece threat within the final third.

Whilst he may be an expensive addition for the Whites this summer, his figures produced this campaign are examples of the talent he possesses – offering a better signing than Bijol.

Both players would massively improve the options currently in the first team squad, with Farke needing to work tirelessly in the coming months to secure Carter-Vickers’ signature.

He'd be Farke's own Jansson: Leeds preparing bid for "monstrous" talent

Leeds United are set to make a move for a star who could become a fan favourite at Elland Road.

2 ByEthan Lamb Jun 13, 2025

Will West Bromwich Albion be promotion challengers again when the 2025/26 season gets underway in the Championship?

That’s the question likely wracking the brains of Baggies fans far and wide, with nobody quite sure how Ryan Mason will deal with the pressures of the Hawthorns hot-seat, considering experienced manager Tony Mowbray struggled back at the helm last campaign.

Mowbray, unfortunately, sank the West Brom ship instead of steadying it as a playoff spot slipped disastrously out of their grasp.

On the contrary, Mason will hope he can guide his new side to a top-six finish or even higher, with the sparkling potential addition of a seasoned Championship pro helping his chances as a rookie boss.

West Brom have former Championship star on their radar

As per a new report from TEAMTalk, West Brom have ex-Derby County star Tom Lawrence very much on their radar.

His free agent status after walking away from Rangers has alerted numerous clubs to his services, however, with both Wrexham and Coventry City named as other suitors eyeing up the 31-year-old.

The ambitious Red Dragons could well be in the driver’s seat over landing his signature, considering Lawrence does hail from Wrexham, but West Brom are said to still be keen even as Phil Parkinson’s men sniff around.

How Lawrence could be their next Wallace

If West Brom were to knock Wrexham off their pedestal and win his services, Mason could be about to land the Baggies’ next Jed Wallace, with the accomplished attacker arriving at the Hawthorns back in 2022 with plenty of EFL know-how to show off, much like Lawrence will be desperate to provide.

Wallace would also enter into his new environment all those years ago on a shrewd free transfer, with Millwall left to curse the 31-year-old running his contract down at the Den.

The Lions’ short-term agony ended up being West Brom’s gain, however, with an impressive tally of six goals and eight assists mustered up by Wallace during his debut league campaign in the West Midlands.

His output has since dwindled, with only two goal contributions coming his way across the entire course of last season, but there will be hope that Lawrence’s experience of the Championship, which is of the same stature as Wallace’s, means he can instantly hit the ground running with Albion if he signs.

After all, the free agent is only 82 appearances shy of Wallace’s hefty 346 appearances in the intimidating division, with his goal and assist numbers across those 264 clashes even closer to the esteemed Baggies’ captain’s bumper haul.

21/22

Derby County

38

11

5

20/21

Derby County

23

3

2

19/20

Derby County

37

10

4

18/19

Derby County

33

6

4

17/18

Derby County

39

6

8

16/17

Ipswich Town

34

9

11

15/16

Cardiff City

14

0

1

15/16

Blackburn Rovers

21

2

2

14/15

Rotherham United

6

1

1

13/14

Yeovil Town

19

2

2

Much like Wallace, who had to wait to find his groove with Millwall, Lawrence really kicked into gear as a devastating Championship-level attacker with Derby County, as seen in him amassing 59 of his overall 90 goal contributions donning Rams white.

To add context, his equally experienced counterpart boasts 14 more goal contributions in total in the second-tier, with 76 of those coming about in South East London.

Hailed as an “excellent” professional by Rangers coach David McCallum, with a promising 12 strikes next to his name at Ibrox even as he enters the twilight years of his playing days, this could be a move that reawakens a beast out of Lawrence to cause Championship defences headaches all over again.

Better signing than Moore: West Brom must land £45k p/w “monster”

West Bromwich Albion might prioritise landing this monster over snapping up Mikey Moore.

ByKelan Sarson Jun 14, 2025

Celtic are enjoying a hard-earned break during the off-season, but they may now have an opportunity to offload one star who has recently made an impact under Brendan Rodgers, according to a report.

Celtic set to alter defensive line this summer

The reigning Scottish Premiership champions are usually slow starters in the window, taking a measured approach before deciding where they need to strengthen ahead of the new campaign. Nevertheless, the world already knows that the complexion of their backline will change significantly once Kieran Tierney arrives at Celtic on a free transfer from Arsenal.

With the Scotland international’s emotional homecoming taking pride of place, his compatriot Greg Taylor could opt to leave Parkhead amid interest from Greek giants PAOK.

Formerly of Kilmarnock, the 27-year-old has a two-year deal on the table that is said to be a significant upgrade on his current terms at Celtic, potentially spelling the end to his extremely successful six years in Glasgow.

It remains to be seen if Taylor will accept a new challenge elsewhere. He is still someone the club want to keep around, though they have already started to seek out potential contingency options.

Rodgers could sign Celtic their new Giakoumakis in 25-goal sensation

As Celtic continue their search for a new forward this summer, should the sign a “technically gifted” striker for free, reminiscent of Giakoumakis?

1 ByBen Gray Jun 6, 2025

Peterborough United’s Harley Mills is a Celtic target and the Bhoys have reportedly made an approach for the youngster, indicating that any incoming figure to replace Taylor may be of a youthful mould.

From the outset, Rodgers appears to have settled options in the middle and on the right-hand side of his backline. Cameron Carter-Vickers, Liam Scales and Auston Trusty are established figures and are expected to be around next term.

However, peripheral figures may depart to make room for new blood and Celtic may now have an opportunity to offload one of their fringe stars.

Celtic defender Maik Nawrocki could now exit Parkhead

According to wSzczecinie.pl, Celtic defender Maik Nawrocki could join Pogon Szczecin on loan for the forthcoming campaign despite his growing rapport with supporters due to some encouraging displays of late.

Brought in for £4.3 million back in 2023, the former Legia Warsaw man has struggled for consistent minutes in Glasgow, making only 18 appearances across two seasons in green and white.

Maik Nawrocki’s Celtic statistics in 2024/25 – Scottish Premiership (Fotmob)

Pass accuracy

95.7%

Successful passes

308

Duels won

17

Tackles won percentage rate

100%

Recoveries

11

Dribbled past

1

Labelled “very highly-rated” by Rodgers after joining the club, there has clearly been a breakdown somewhere along the line that has led to limited appearances for the Bremen-born man.

Injuries haven’t helped his case, though many would argue he has been value for more starts at times throughout the campaign. Either way, a return to his homeland would offer that luxury if he were to stay fit.

In turn, Celtic would surely be expected to secure cover at centre-back, unless Stephen Welsh is re-integrated into the first-team squad upon his return from a loan spell at KV Mechelen.

Glasgow Rangers supporters still do not know who the club’s next head coach is going to be, as Ibrox chiefs continue to run the rule over a number of candidates.

It has been reported by the Daily Mail that Andrew Cavenagh is set for face-to-face talks, alongside Kevin Thelwell and Patrick Stewart at Rangers, with managers, including Davide Ancelotti and Russell Martin.

The same report, though, added that Steven Gerrard, who won the Scottish Premiership with the Gers in the 2020/21 campaign, is still in the running for the job.

Part of what made the English manager’s team at Ibrox so successful was that they were able to successfully recruit domestic talent, including central midfielder Glen Kamara.

Why Glen Kamara was a key signing for Steven Gerrard

The Finland international, who came through the Arsenal academy, made his big breakthrough in senior football with Dundee in the Premiership, playing 64 games in 18 months at Dens Park.

Rangers swooped to sign him for £50k in the January window of 2019, as his deal was due to expire that summer, and it was a move that was later described as the “steal of the century” by Scott Arfield.

His 64 appearances for Dundee meant that Gerrard was bringing in a proven Premiership performer who could hit the ground running in the Premiership as an impact signing, rather than needing time as either a young player or as someone who was not used to Scottish football.

Kamara went on to play 193 games for Rangers, scoring nine goals and providing 11 assists, before being sold to Leeds United for £5m in 2023.

He was a key signing for Gerrard, though, because his ability to hit the ground running allowed him to be a star from the get-go, and he went on to play a significant role in the title-winning side, starting 28 of the 38 league games and completing 91% of his attempted passes.

Rangers, and potentially Gerrard if he gets the job for a second time, could repeat that masterclass by swooping for another Dundee star this summer.

Rangers have held talks to sign Dundee star

According to Daily Record reporter Scott Burns, Rangers have held talks over a deal to sign Dundee right wing-back Josh Mulligan, who is out of contract, in the upcoming summer transfer window.

The report claims that the Light Blues have explored a move to land the 22-year-old ace, although they face competition from Charlton Athletic, but have put talks on hold for now until their managerial pursuit comes to an end.

Whilst talks are on hold for the defender, who was dubbed a future Scotland international by Kai Watson, the club should look to pursue this further as soon as possible because he could be Glen Kamara 2.0.

Why Josh Mulligan could be Glen Kamara 2.0

The versatile Scottish ace, who can play as a wing-back or as a central midfielder, as outlined by Watson, could be a repeat of the masterclass that Gerrard played with Kamara because he is a proven Premiership performer with time ahead of him to develop and improve.

Mulligan, who was described as a “Rolls-Royce” and as a “powerful” player by Simon Ferry, is only 22 but has already racked up 122 appearances for Dundee, 63 of which have come in the Premiership.

Appearances

34

Big chances created

9

Assists

5

Tackles + interceptions per game

2.5

Duels won per game

5.2

Error led to shot

0

Error led to goal

0

As you can see in the table above, the young defender offered solid defensive work, with zero errors that directly led to shots or goals, whilst also providing a creative outlet down the right flank.

These statistics show that Mulligan is a solid and reliable Premiership performer, despite his young age, in both his work in and out of possession, as he can step in to make vital tackles and interceptions without making many mistakes, and has an impact in the final third.

This means that the Ranger transfer target could follow in Kamara’s footsteps as a proven Premiership star coming to Ibrox directly from Dundee to hit the ground running in Glasgow.

Mulligan could make an instant impact on the pitch for the next manager, given his performances for Dundee in the division this season, and that is why he could be an excellent, and bargain on a free transfer, addition to the squad.

Ryan Kent 2.0: Rangers in strong position to sign "outstanding" star

Rangers are in a strong position to sign a star who could be their next Ryan Kent.

ByDan Emery May 28, 2025

Arsenal have been one of the Champions League’s most frequent participants, but have not been able to take home the famous trophy.

The Gunners have come unstuck against Bayern Munich and PSG since returning to the competition after six seasons away, with Mikel Arteta’s side spending years in the relative wilderness of the Europa League (as well as one year out of Europe altogether) before threatening to go all the way in 2024/25.

From repeated last-16 heartache to final… heartbreak, the Gunners have had quite a journey in the Champions League over the years.

So how does Arsenal’s Champions League record shape up? While they had two European Cup campaigns in 1971 and 1991, they have appeared in 21 of the last 27 editions of the UEFA Champions League ahead of their expected entry in 2025/26.

Arsenal's top 25 Champions League moments

Arsenal have enjoyed some of their greatest European nights in the Champions League.

ByMark Marston May 15, 2025

Here is a complete Arsenal record in Europe’s premier club competition.

Season

Stage reached

Beaten by

1998/99

Group stage

Dynamo Kyiv, Lens, Panathinaikos

1999/00

Group stage

Barcelona, Fiorentina, AIK

2000/01

Quarter-finals

Valencia

2001/02

Second group stage

Leverkusen, Deportivo, Arsenal

2002/03

Second group stage

Valencia, Ajax, Roma

2003/04

Quarter-finals

Chelsea

2004/05

Round of 16

Bayern Munich

2005/06

Final

Barcelona

2006/07

Round of 16

PSV

2007/08

Quarter-finals

Liverpool

2008/09

Semi-finals

Man Utd

2009/10

Quarter-finals

Barcelona

2010/11

Round of 16

Barcelona

2011/12

Round of 16

Milan

2012/13

Round of 16

Bayern Munich

2013/14

Round of 16

Bayern Munich

2014/15

Round of 16

Monaco

2015/16

Round of 16

Barcelona

2016/17

Round of 16

Bayern Munich

2023/24

Quarter-finals

Bayern Munich

2024/25

Semi-finals

PSG

1998/99 First CL campaign ends in group stage disappointment

Arsenal secured their maiden UEFA Champions League berth after winning the Premier League title in Arsene Wenger’s first full season at the club.

Their first two seasons in the competition were marked by the Gunners playing their home games at Wembley in order to play in front of larger crowds, with the national stadium having almost double the amount of seats as Highbury.

Unfortunately, with only group winners guaranteed a quarter-final place, Arsenal were left to rue some late equalisers as they ended up finishing third on the head-to-head rule.

Round

Opponent

Result

Goalscorers

Group stage

Lens (a)

D 1-1

Vairelles / Overmars

Group stage

Panathinaikos (h)

W 2-1

Adams, Keown / Mauro

Group stage

Dynamo Kyiv (h)

D 1-1

Bergkamp / Rebrov

Group stage

Dynamo Kyiv (a)

L 1-3

Rebrov, Holovko, Shevchenko / Hughes

Group stage

Lens (h)

L 0-1

Debeve

Group stage

Panathinaikos (a)

W 3-1

Sypniewski / Asanovic (og), Anelka, Boa Morte

1999/00 Fiorentina and Barcelona win at Wembley to eliminate Gunners

Arsenal came up against some world superstars such as Gabriel Batistuta and Rivaldo in the first group stage, and while they were far from embarrassed, they fell short by a point to finish third once again.

They found solace in a run to the UEFA Cup final, where they were beaten on penalties by Galatasaray.

Round

Opponent

Result

Goalscorers

Group stage

Fiorentina (a)

D 0-0

None

Group stage

AIK (h)

W 3-1

Ljungberg, Henry, Suker / Nordin

Group stage

Barcelona (a)

D 1-1

Luis Enrique / Kanu

Group stage

Barcelona (h)

L 2-4

Bergkamp, Overmars / Rivaldo, Luis Enrique, Figo, Cocu

Group stage

Fiorentina (h)

L 0-1

Batistuta

Group stage

AIK (a)

W 3-2

A. Andersson (2) / Overmars (2), Suker

2000/01 Gunners suffer away goals heartbreak Pt. 1

The 2000/01 campaign was the first time the Gunners made it through the group stage – a feat they repeated for the following 16 years.

It was also the one and only time they made it past the second group stage before it was discontinued in 2003.

Qualifying comfortably from the group as winners, they survived a second group stage including would-be familiar foes Bayern Munich, before falling to Valencia on away goals in the quarter-finals despite Ray Parlour’s first-leg screamer.

Round

Opponent

Result

Goalscorers

Group stage

Sparta Prague (a)

W 1-0

Sylvinho

Group stage

Shakhtar Donetsk (h)

W 3-2

Wiltord, Keown (2) / Bakharev, Vorobey

Group stage

Lazio (h)

W 2-0

Ljungberg (2)

Group stage

Lazio (a)

D 1-1

Pires

Group stage

Sparta Prague

W 4-2

Parlour, Lauren, Dixon, Kanu / Labant, Rosicky

Group stage

Shakhtar Donetsk (a)

L 0-3

Atelkin, Vorobey, Byelik

Second group stage

Spartak Moscow (a)

L 1-4

Marcao (2), Titov, Robson / Sylvinho

Second group stage

Bayern Munich (h)

D 2-2

Henry, Kanu / Tarnat, Scholl

Second group stage

Lyon (a)

W 1-0

Henry

Second group stage

Lyon (h)

D 1-1

Bergkamp / Edmilson

Second group stage

Spartak Moscow (h)

W 1-0

Henry

Second group stage

Bayern Munich (a)

L 0-1

Elber

Quarter-final 1st leg

Valencia (h)

W 2-1

Henry, Parlour / Ayala

Quarter-final 2nd leg

Valencia (a)

L 0-1

Carew

2001/02 Double winners fall short in Europe again

Arsenal won all their home games to squeeze into the second group stage, where although they defeated eventual finalists Bayer Leverkusen, the Gunners were knocked out, with two defeats against then-Spanish giants Deportivo proving crucial.

Wenger’s men continued to impress on the domestic front, with another league and cup double leaving European success as the missing part in the trophy cabinet.

Round

Opponent

Result

Goalscorers

First group stage

Mallorca (a)

L 0-1

Engonga

First group stage

Schalke (h)

W 3-2

Ljungberg, Henry (2) / Van Hoogdalem, Mpenza

First group stage

Panathinaikos (a)

L 0-1

Karagounis

First group stage

Panathinaikos (h)

W 2-1

Henry (2) / Olisadebe

First group stage

Mallorca (h)

W 3-1

Pires, Bergkamp, Henry / Novo

First group stage

Schalke (a)

L 1-3

Mulder, Vermant, Moller / Wiltord

Second group stage

Deportivo (a)

L 0-2

Makaay, Tristan

Second group stage

Juventus (h)

W 3-1

Ljungberg (2), Henry / Taylor (og)

Second group stage

Bayer Leverkusen (a)

D 1-1

Kirsten / Pires

Second group stage

Bayer Leverkusen (h)

W 4-1

Pires, Henry, Vieira, Bergkamp / Sebescen

Second group stage

Deportivo (h)

L 0-2

Valeron, Naybet

Second group stage

Juventus (a)

L 0-1

Zalayeta

2002/03 Gunners draw four of six second-phase games

Experienced Champions League participants by this point, Arsenal secured a routine second group stage spot after seeing off the likes of Borussia Dortmund and PSV.

While they had their moments in the second group stage – including Thierry Henry’s hat-trick against Roma – failure to convert draws into wins saw Ajax and Valencia pip the Gunners to the two quarter-final berths.

Round

Opponent

Result

Goalscorers

First group stage

Borussia Dortmund (h)

W 2-0

Bergkamp, Ljungberg

First group stage

PSV (a)

W 4-0

Gilberto, Ljungberg, Henry (2)

First group stage

Auxerre (a)

W 1-0

Gilberto

First group stage

Auxerre (h)

L 1-2

Kanu / Kapo, Fadiga

First group stage

Borussia Dortmund (a)

L 1-2

Rosicky (2) / Henry

First group stage

PSV (h)

D 0-0

None

Second group stage

Roma (a)

W 3-1

Cassano / Henry (3)

Second group stage

Valencia (h)

D 0-0

None

Second group stage

Ajax (h)

D 1-1

Wiltord / De Jong

Second group stage

Ajax (a)

D 0-0

None

Second group stage

Roma (h)

D 1-1

Vieira / Cassano

Second group stage

Valencia (a)

L 1-2

Carew (2) / Henry

2003/04 Wayne Bridge denies Invincibles shot at European glory

With the second group stage now a thing of the past, Arsenal were arguably at their very best and poised to bring the Champions League to N5 for the first time.

A disastrous start to the group stage was remedied by three successive victories which included their 5-1 demolition of Inter at San Siro, before easing past Celta Vigo in the last 16 and being handed a quarter-final tie with London rivals Chelsea.

Despite a rocking first 45, Arsenal were unable to make their home advantage count as the Blues snatched the tie late on, leaving the Gunners to wonder what might have been as FC Porto went all the way.

Round

Opponent

Result

Goalscorers

Group stage

Inter (h)

L 0-3

Cruz, Van der Meyde, Martins

Group stage

Lokomotiv Moscow (a)

D 0-0

None

Group stage

Dynamo Kyiv (a)

L 1-2

Shatskikh, Belkevich / Henry

Group stage

Dynamo Kyiv (h)

W 1-0

Cole

Group stage

Inter (a)

W 5-1

Vieri / Henry (2), Ljungberg, Edu, Pires

Group stage

Lokomotiv Moscow

W 2-0

Pires, Ljungberg

Round of 16 1st leg

Celta Vigo (a)

W 3-2

Edu, Jose Ignacio / Edu (2), Pires

Round of 16 2nd leg

Celta Vigo (h)

W 2-0

Henry (2)

Quarter-final 1st leg

Chelsea (a)

D 1-1

Gudjohnsen / Pires

Quarter-final 2nd leg

Chelsea (h)

L 1-2

Reyes / Lampard, Bridge

2004/05 Arsenal fall to Bayern despite second-leg win

Arsenal topped their group despite winning just two of their six matches, though their reward of meeting Bayern Munich in the last 16 (sound familiar?) saw the Gunners endure another early exit.

After a 3-1 defeat at a snowy Olympiastadion, Arsenal threatened to stage a remarkable comeback in the second leg, but their 1-0 win was not enough to advance to the quarters.

2005/06 Gunners lose in Paris finale amid historic campaign

Arsenal’s closest call to date came in what was their final European campaign at Highbury. They bowed out in style by easing through the group, and enjoyed a magical night at the Santiago Bernabeu before holding Real Madrid to a goalless draw in north London.

Their penultimate night under the Highbury lights in Europe saw Cesc Fabregas and Thierry Henry see off Juventus before another shutout in Turin, while there was more drama in the semi-final.

Kolo Toure scored Highbury’s last-ever Champions League goal as they took a slender advantage to Spain, where a late Jens Lehmann penalty save secured Arsenal a place in the Champions League final.

The final was also fraught with controversy, with Lehmann’s first-half sending-off leaving the Gunners up against it, though they somehow led at half-time through Sol Campbell’s header.

Barcelona’s equaliser had more of a hint of offside about it, before the 10 men’s luck ran out late on, as Juliano Belletti’s winner broke Arsenal hearts.

2006/07 PSV’s Alex nets at both ends to send Gunners out

Arsenal’s fourth-place finish the previous year – their lowest under Wenger – saw the Frenchman’s side in the unfamiliar territory of having to enter the qualifying rounds, where they defeated Dinamo Zagreb over two legs.

The Gunners topped their group once more, but their run came to an abrupt end when Alex nodded in a last-gasp equaliser for PSV in the last 16 to defeat Arsenal on aggregate.

2007/08 Contentious penalty sees Arsenal’s San Siro victory count for nothing

This was another campaign that left the Gunners licking their wounds, as Arsenal were minutes away from the semi-finals before a late, debatable penalty call at Anfield put paid to their efforts to see off English opposition in the Champions League.

Arsenal dazzled at times in the group stage, securing their biggest-ever Champions League win in their 7-0 rout against Slavia Prague. They then dispatched holders Milan with a memorable victory at San Siro before meeting Liverpool in the last eight, where the Reds’ European experience showed.

Chelsea chairman Todd Boehly and BlueCo are expected to sell their “best player” of 2025, in what would be quite a surprising move given his form.

Chelsea players who could leave Stamford Bridge this summer

A host of stars are widely tipped to leave the club this summer, so there is plenty of work to do in that regard, as many don’t appear to have a long-term future under Enzo Maresca.

Chelsea "ready to negotiate" re-signing £238k-a-week "leader", contact made

The west Londoners are exploring a “shock” move.

ByEmilio Galantini May 8, 2025

Kepa Arrizabalaga, Alfie Gilchrist, Renato Veiga, Armando Broja, Raheem Sterling, João Félix, David Datro Fofana, Carney Chukwuemeka, Ben Chilwell and Axel Disasi are all contenders to leave Chelsea, with the loanees seemingly out of Maresca’s plans.

Chelsea will need to find another new home for each of the aforementioned players this summer, with AC Milan already deciding they won’t pursue a permanent deal for Felix, while Arsenal are also set to allow Sterling to return to west London.

Newcastle (away)

May 11th

Man United (home)

May 16th

Nottingham Forest (away)

May 25th

Chelsea will be very keen to find buyers as soon as possible, as they seek to gauge control of their wage bill and stay in line with Financial Fair Play/PSR.

Another key decision awaiting BlueCo is the future of defender Trevoh Chalobah, who has seriously impressed since returning from a loan spell at Crystal Palace.

The Cobham academy graduate was frozen out of Maresca’s pre-season tour and allowed to make a temporary move to Selhurst Park, only for Chelsea to activate a re-call clause in the deal and bring him back amid their centre-back shortage.

Since then, Chalobah has enjoyed a fantastic run in the first-team, starting each of their last six Premier League games. Chelsea have won four out of their last six, drawing the other two, and they’ve conceded just five goals in that time.

It is no coincidence that this run of form has coincided with the 25-year-old’s presence in Maresca’s backline, but it is believed by some that Chalobah could be used in potential Chelsea swap deals for other centre-backs.

Chelsea expected to sell Trevoh Chalobah despite stellar form

Now, The Telegraph’s Matt Law has provided an update on his future, and it appears the Englishman could still part company despite his excellent form.

Speaking on the London is Blue podcast, relayed by The Chelsea Chronicle, Law stated that Chelsea are expected to sell Chalobah this summer, and it is a case of Groundhog Day for Maresca’s “best player” of 2025.

“I suspect that they will try and sell him because I think that’s what the whole bringing him back was about,” said Law.

“I know that they are obviously interested in bringing in one defender. I don’t think it will be two defenders, so I think it will be one defender rather than two unless there are a lot more sales than planned, but I do fear that Trev will be on the up for sale list again. No one can be surprised because it’s the same thing that happens every year.

“I mean, it’s literally, it’s like Groundhog Day with Trev. He becomes the best player of the second half of the season, then they try and sell him.”

Fair to say, Chelsea have been pretty active in the transfer market in recent years, and this activity is showing little sign of slowing down.

Since Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital bought the Blues in 2022, they’ve signed over 40 senior players, costing in excess of £1bn, but are forecast to spend big again this summer.

So, do the West London side now have a highly-rated defender in their sights?

Chelsea's latest centre-back target

According to a report by Kaveh Solhekol of Sky Sports News, Chelsea are ‘seriously considering’ a move to sign Jorrel Hato, a 19-year-old defender who plays for Ajax. The Blues are said to hold a ‘long-standing’ interest in him.

Transfer Focus

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

Pete O’Rourke of Football Insider reports that the soon-to-be-re-crowned Eredivisie champions value the teenager at £40m, a fee the Blues would surely not be shy to pay, given their recent track record.

Kieran King of Football London notes that Hato ‘has established himself as one of Europe’s most talented young defenders’, while Jacek Kulig from Football Talent Scout labels him “immense”, describing him as both a “complete full-back” and a “ball-playing centre-back”.

So, could he be the latest youngster on his way to Stamford Bridge?

Chelsea's current centre-back conundrum

In recent weeks, Levi Colwill and Trevoh Chalobah have emerged as Chelsea’s first-choice centre-back duo, starting three of the last five Premier League matches alongside each other.

Nevertheless, Enzo Maresca has spent the majority of the season chopping and changing his centre-back partnership, as the table below outlines.

Levi Colwill

33

31

31

Trevoh Chalobah*

15

12

10

Wesley Fofana

14

14

14

Tosin Adarabioyo

34

27

13

Benoît Badiashile

18

16

3

*was recalled from a loan spell at Crystal Palace in January

As the table emphasises, Colwill has been, by some distance, Chelsea’s most utilised central defender this season, especially in the Premier League, starting 31 of their 34 league fixtures to date.

His performances have yielded widespread praise, with Simon Johnson of the Athletic labelling him Chelsea’s ‘untouchable figure at the back’, while David Hytner of the Guardian notes that his ‘impressive’ form has earned England recognition.

However, like transfer target Hato, the 22-year-old England international can be both deployed at centre-back and left-back, suggesting they would be vying for the same position, so let’s assess how the duo compare this season.

Appearances

33

47

Minutes

2,880

3,932

Goals

1

3

Assists

1

6

Pass completion %

89.7%

88.5%

Tackles

40

81

Tackles won

34

54

% of dribblers tackled

61.5%

80.4%

Blocks

34

45

Interceptions

34

36

Clearances

104

79

Errors leading to a shot

4

5

Ball recoveries

108

166

% of ground duels won

50.8%

57.6%

% of aerials duels won

59.2%

51.85%

Touches per 90

88

65

As outlined by the table, Hato would represent a massive upgrade on Colwill, especially defensively, with the Dutchman excelling when it comes to tackles, blocks, interceptions, ball recoveries and ground duels this season.

Of course, there will be a question mark as to whether the teenager would be able to thrive at a higher-level; according to Global Football Rankings, the Premier League is the strongest league in the world, with the Eredivisie ranked 12th.

Nevertheless, still only 19 years old, of course, Hato appears to have all the attributes to become a world-class defender, so will he be the latest young talent on their way to West London?

Approach made: Chelsea now ready to splash out £60m to sign "amazing" star

He almost joined Arsenal in January…

ByTom Cunningham May 3, 2025

La Liga giants Real Madrid are prepared to make a part-exchange bid for Chelsea star Enzo Fernández this summer, with a report sharing who Florentino Perez is ready to send to Stamford Bridge alongside a cash offer.

Chelsea could now sign an attacking midfielder this summer

Christopher Nkunku, João Félix and Carney Chukwuemeka are very likely to be sold or loaned out by Chelsea when the transfer window reopens, and this means Enzo Maresca’s side could bring in another attacking midfielder.

Chelsea now favourites to sign £50m player after 7-year contract offer

They’ve reportedly made a tempting proposal.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 25, 2025

That is according to reliable journalist Simon Phillips, who also explained that Chelsea would only have Cole Palmer as an option for the role if all three of the aforementioned players do end up leaving the club.

Everton (home)

April 26th

Liverpool (home)

May 4th

Newcastle (away)

May 11th

Man United (home)

May 16th

Nottingham Forest (away)

May 25th

This potential shortage even prompted Chelsea to hold internal talks over re-signing Kevin De Bruyne, who is set to leave Man City on a free contract in July, 11 years after José Mourinho let him depart Cobham for just £17 million.

Since then, it has been reported that Chelsea have cooled their interest in a free deal for De Bruyne (The Telegraph), despite their need for more experience in the squad and a new creator in the middle.

In his most recent press conference, Maresca hinted that Chelsea require players with more years under their belt, sending a subtle message to the Blues hierarchy.

“When you have experience you have something more, no doubt,” said Maresca.

“But the ones that struggle in terms of experience this year, they have already won more in terms of experience. Next year they can be better. We are a better team today than two or three months ago because we went through this bad moment. And if you want to grow, you need this moment as a team. We are the youngest team in the Premier League. And the second [youngest] in Europe. For some games, we have on the bench three or four players [born in] 2006, 2007 or 2008. Do you see that? No. I see that.”

Real Madrid prepared to offer Chelsea £34m and Arda Güler for Enzo Fernández

According to reports in Spain, while hardly a player of experience, Chelsea could be offered the chance to reinforce their attacking midfield options.

Indeed, it is believed Real Madrid are targeting Maresca’s star midfielder, Fernández, and are prepared to launch a part-exchange bid for the Argentine – involving Turkey sensation Arda Güler.

Real are willing to offer Guler and £34 million to Chelsea in exchange for Fernandez, with the former starting their most recent La Liga game against Getafe and getting on the scoresheet.

However, overall, the 20-year-old has been used sparingly by Carlo Ancelotti, making the vast majority of his appearances off the bench. Guler has still managed four goals and seven assists in that time, impressing in some key games, but he’ll be keen for many more opportunities to start.

The ex-Fenerbache gem already carries a fearsome reputation as one of Europe’s most promising young talents, and Chelsea have displayed a real penchant to go for this type of signing over the last few seasons.

“Arda is showing great personality and exceptional quality,” said José Mourinho about Guler.

“To play at that club, personality is crucial. Players must internalize that they are good enough to play there. They can’t be afraid.”

La Liga giants Barcelona have opened initial talks with the representatives of a Tottenham star as Hansi Flick’s side register a serious interest ahead of the looming summer window.

Tottenham face losing key first-team players this summer

Alongside the uncertain future surrounding their manager, Ange Postecoglou, a few key first-team players could also be on their way out.

Tottenham seal "major coup" in "dramatic" shake-up, raises Levy question

It’s been officially confirmed.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 12, 2025

Recently, Atlético Madrid have become increasingly keen on defender Cristian Romero, with reports from Argentina even claiming that Diego Simeone has already reached out to him personally in an attempt to sway him towards the Wanda Metropolitano.

The 26-year-old, for his part, is keen to leave Spurs for pastures new this summer (Graeme Bailey), which has resulted in chairman Daniel Levy postponing talks over a new deal for Romero.

Wolves (away)

Today

Nottingham Forest (home)

April 21st

Liverpool (away)

April 27th

West Ham (away)

May 3rd

Crystal Palace (home)

May 10th

As well as Romero, Man City are also posing a real threat when it comes to left-back Destiny Udogie, with Pep Guardiola’s side adding the Italian to their shortlist of potential new left-back signings.

Further upfield, Atlético have also been keeping an eye on mainstay Spurs midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur, who is now attracting interest from Barcelona.

Barcelona open talks with Tottenham star Rodrigo Bentancur

That is according to a report from The Boy Hotspur, with the outlet claiming that Barca have reached out to Bentancur’s camp for early transfer talks, alongside Simeone’s side.

The Uruguay international is about to enter the final 12 months of his contract at Spurs, prompting Levy to open talks over an extension for the midfielder, but the European heavyweight duo are threatening to turn Bentancur’s head by making contact.

Keeping him at the club should be considered a top priority for Spurs, as the 27-year-old is a consistent performer when fit and available, not to mention one of the more senior players in a relatively young squad.

Bentancur has been praised for his performances since joining the club from Juventus, with former Spurs keeper Paul Robinson calling him “sensational” (Football Insider), and while the club haven’t put a recent price on Bentancur, some sources in the past have suggested they value him at up to £50 million.

“Him and Kulusevski have been fantastic signings,” said Robinson in 2022.

“Players take different amounts of time to settle into the Premier League. Bentancur was given a berth in the team early and has since made himself undroppable. He is one of the first names on the teamsheet. He has offensive and defensive capabilities.

“Bentancur is a player that goes under the radar, but he’s been sensational. His all-round performance is excellent, it really is.”