All posts by h716a5.icu

With Rasmus Hojlund continuing to struggle, Manchester United are now reportedly positioning themselves to sign an impressive 17-goal striker who would be an instant upgrade.

Hojlund up for sale this summer

Almost two years on from his £72m move from Atalanta, Hojlund is yet to burst into life in a Manchester United shirt. Even after paying such a price, the Red Devils would have been aware that any young striker would need time. By this stage, however, those around Old Trafford had hoped to see more from the Dane, who has struggled more than ever under Ruben Amorim.

Appearances

94

Goals

26

Assists

4

26 goals in 94 appearances is a poor record for any striker, but for a £72m striker it’s undeniably disastrous. Now, according to recent reports, Amorim is ready to sanction Hojlund’s sale and find an instant replacement this summer.

This comes just days after the Europa League final, in which the 22-year-old was once again kept quiet as Tottenham Hotspur battled to a 1-0 victory. What will far from help his cause is how much more structured Manchester United looked following the introduction of Joshua Zirkzee.

Whilst Hojlund failed in his hold-up play approach, Zirkzee dropped deeper and instantly handed the likes of Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes a connection between midfield and attack. As much as the Dutchman has also struggled in Manchester this season, he has shown glimpses of the traits that Manchester United signed him for last summer.

In desperate need of an upgrade to end their goalscoring woes, the pending arrival of Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers may not be the last time that Manchester United go in search of attacking talent this summer. As per recent reports, the Red Devils are also lining up another Premier League star.

Man Utd positioning themselves to sign Mateta

According to L’Equipe, Manchester United are now positioning themselves to sign Jean-Philippe Mateta from Crystal Palace this summer. The Frenchman is reportedly considering joining Amorim’s side in a bid to break into France’s World Cup squad next summer.

The forward has enjoyed another excellent season at Selhurst Park and will forever have his place in the club’s history after playing his part in their FA Cup win and their first-ever major trophy.

Man Utd ready move for one of the most sought after young talents in Italy

He’s a man in demand.

ByTom Cunningham May 22, 2025

The question will naturally be asked as to whether Mateta will be willing to ditch such success for a United side in turmoil, but Cunha’s reported move proves that those at Old Trafford still have the ability to attract top talents.

Minutes

2,587

1,924

1,402

Goals

14

4

3

Assists

2

0

1

Expected Goals

12.9

5.2

4.8

With 14 goals in the Premier League and 17 in all competitions, Mateta has found the back of the net more times than both Zirkzee and Hojlund combined. Described as “amazing” by Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner earlier this season, the Frenchman is someone that Manchester United should go all out for.

With Pep Guardiola personally pushing for his signature, one Manchester City target now reportedly has representatives in Manchester to discuss a deal to sign for the Citizens.

Kevin De Bruyne preparing for ultimate farewell

Whilst Manchester City do have one eye on the summer transfer window, they must first bid farewell to one of their greatest ever players in Kevin De Bruyne. The Belgian is set to depart as a free agent after winning everything there is to win at The Etihad and earning his place as one of the best to ever do in the Premier League, not just at Manchester City.

Big Rico Lewis upgrade: Man City agree personal terms with young target

Manchester City are closing in on a star who could be a big upgrade on Rico Lewis.

ByDan Emery May 12, 2025

He won’t want to bow out without a trophy, however. As one last trip to Wembley awaits in City’s sky blue, De Bruyne has the opportunity to enjoy one last moment of magic and take his side to victory against Crystal Palace. All of a sudden, from what looked like a season destined to end in disaster, City could yet finish as high as second and win silverware along the way.

Following the FA Cup final, De Bruyne will have just two games left in a City shirt with his final game at The Etihad coming against Bournemouth just three days after a trip to Wembley.

These aren’t meaningless games for Guardiola’s side, either. They’re must-win affairs if they want to secure their place in the Champions League ahead of next season. The last thing the Manchester club needs is to lose the FA Cup final before crashing out of the top five in a disastrous final couple of weeks.

By securing Champions League football, the Citizens – like others around them – would be in a far stronger position to attract their top target and perhaps pull off quite the hijack.

Wirtz's representatives travel for talks

According to Sky Sports’ Florian Plettenberg, Florian Wirtz’s family are now in Manchester to hold talks with Manchester City over a move to The Etihad this summer. Whilst it’s been Bayern Munich in the driving seat for much of the transfer saga, it doesn’t look like City are willing to give up anytime soon and could use Bayer Leverkusen’s reluctance to sell to a rival to jump ahead of the queue.

With Guardiola personally pushing to sign his De Bruyne replacement, Manchester City will be desperate to beat Bayern to a player described as “incredible” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig earlier this season.

Indeed, Wirtz will be one of the most interesting players to watch this summer, having been praised as “probably the best midfielder in the world” by former striker Patrick Helmes, who believes he could one day end up at Real Madrid.

Everton are embarking on a new era under David Moyes and could now land themselves a summer transfer bargain once the window opens for business.

Everton look to make summer window mark

Survival has been achieved with flying colours by Everton and there is only one match now left at Goodison Park before supporters say goodbye to their home ahead of moving to Bramley Moore Dock.

Emotions are running high and there will be plenty of time for sentimental thoughts over the next few weeks, but fans will feel emboldened that the club are headed in the right direction under David Moyes.

Exciting times are on the horizon under The Friedkin Group and plenty of transfer movement is expected on Merseyside, with Inter Milan defender Yann Bisseck cited as an ambitious potential arrival.

Gustavo Hamer could also join the Toffees from Sheffield United if Moyes has his way, as the former Netherlands Under-20 international is viewed as an ideal creative midfield option by the man in charge.

Abdoulaye Doucoure heads up a lengthy list of players that could be set to leave Everton upon the expiry of their contract or loan deals, which could be the signal for a sea change to take place in the dressing room.

Everton make first contact in race to sign "talented" ex-Arsenal defender

He could complete a Premier League return.

ByTom Cunningham May 1, 2025

Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Seamus Coleman and Ashley Young are among other potential departures on free transfers, leaving Moyes with some tough choices to make when considering the future look of his group.

While money is set to be available this summer, PSR regulations will keep clubs in check, meaning Everton could be forced to look for inexpensive pick-ups in certain positions to boost squad depth.

Spying an opportunity to land a bargain, the Toffees are now said to be in pole position to land one of England’s most trustworthy strikers.

Everton looking to seal move for Jamie Vardy

According to reports, Everton are looking to sign Leicester City forward Jamie Vardy once he becomes a free agent at the end of the season and are believed to be at the front of the race. Evaluating his profile, Moyes and TFG are said to value the former Three Lions international’s work ethic and capacity to deliver in pressure moments, citing him as someone who could be a leader in the short-term.

Jamie Vardy’s Premier League statistics – 2024/25

Shots

52

Shots on target

23

Chances created

19

Touches in opposition box

106

Goals

7

Assists

3

Becoming a shining light in a grim season for Leicester, the 38-year-old has been labelled “brilliant” by Gary Lineker and still retains a desire to offer something at the highest level.

Financially, Everton would be able to land the veteran on a free transfer, allowing room for manouvre to spend on other areas in need of surgery. Nevertheless, plenty of other clubs will also be in the hunt for £140,000 per week earner Vardy’s signature due to his potent nature, creating an intriguing few months ahead to see who will eventually land his services once the window opens.

Liverpool’s success during 2024/25 has been nothing short of sensational, winning the Premier League with ease and being unlucky not to have added a Carabao Cup to their list of honours.

Arne Slot has produced a side that has made easy work of other sides in the division, losing just three times in their 35 matches – the best record of any side in the top-flight.

The Dutchman hasn’t made wholesale changes from the previous management, utilising all the players who were at the club after his appointment last summer.

However, despite the excellent run endured in recent months, he has the opportunity to make changes to his squad and take them to the next level ahead of 2025/26.

With just a couple of weeks until the transfer window opens, the manager and the hierarchy have already wasted no time in targeting added reinforcements to bolster his already impressive squad.

The latest on Liverpool’s pursuit of new signings this summer

Over the last couple of months, Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi has been a player who has constantly been touted with a switch to join Liverpool this summer.

However, it appears they’re set to miss out on the 26-year-old, after Fabrizio Romano confirmed that he’s agreed a deal with fellow Premier League side Arsenal over a £50m switch.

Such news will be a disappointment to the fanbase, but they’ve quickly moved on to other options, with Athletic Club’s Mikel Jauregizar now their top target, according to Anfield Watch.

The report states that Slot and staff behind the scenes have been impressed with his showings in LaLiga this campaign and are ready to make an offer for his signature.

It also claims that any move could depend on outgoings in the coming months, but that the 21-year-old will be the player they go after if sales are made.

Why Liverpool’s target would be better than Gravenberch

Midfielder Ryan Gravenberch has been a key part of Slot’s side this campaign, starting all but one league game to date, and cementing his place alongside Argentinian international Alexis Mac Allister.

It’s a stark change from last season as he struggled to break into the side, making just 12 Premier League starts under former boss Jurgen Klopp.

His £34m transfer fee was seen as a waste of money given his lack of action in 2023/24, but now it appears to be a bargain given his importance under his compatriot.

He will likely remain an integral part of Slot’s plans once again next campaign, but his game time could dramatically decrease should the Reds secure a summer deal for Jauregizar in the coming months.

When comparing the Spaniard’s stats to those of Gravenberch this season, he’s managed to match or better him in numerous key areas, highlighting what a phenomenal addition he would be for the club.

The youngster, who’s been labelled “Mr Consistent” by analyst Ben Mattinson, has registered more passes into the final third – highlighting his ability to get the ball into forward areas.

However, he’s also dominated defensively, winning more of the tackles he’s entered, whilst making more blocks per 90 – handing the manager that added defensive reinforcements he’s been desiring.

Games played

30

34

Goals & assists

3

4

Passes into final third

4.5

4.3

Tackles won

2

1.1

Blocks made

1.1

1

Aerials won

1.3

0.8

Fouls won

1.7

1.4

Jauregizar has also won more aerial duels this season, whilst drawing more fouls per 90 – handing the side a restbite option should they find themselves under the cosh.

Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal for the Spanish youngster would set the club back, it’s evident that from the stats produced that he would be a phenomenal addition to the Reds squad.

If Slot is to maintain such success and claim a second title next campaign, it’s vital that the hierarchy work tirelessly to complete a deal – potentially seeing Gravenberch face stiff competition to maintain his starting role.

Dream Frimpong alternative: Liverpool make enquiry for "world-class" star

Liverpool could forget about Jeremie Frimpong with a move for another defensive star.

ByEthan Lamb May 10, 2025

As they look to build on a stunning Premier League title win in Arne Slot’s first season in charge, FSG are reportedly on high alert as Liverpool race to sign a talented Champions League star this summer.

Liverpool's summer plans begin to take shape

The Reds may be in celebration mode, and rightly so after an emphatic campaign, but that hasn’t stood in the way of some early summer planning. Even as champions, it’s clear that Slot’s side have another level to reach and the Dutchman, himself, still has his own stamp to mark on the squad at his disposal. And that should be seen as no bad thing at Anfield.

The new Gravenberch: Liverpool ready bid for "one of the best in the world"

Liverpool are set to make a bid for a talent who could be Arne Slot’s next Ryan Gravenberch.

ByEthan Lamb May 1, 2025

Without any significant incomings last summer, the former Feyenoord boss managed to achieve what many believed to be the unthinkable this season. Now, if FSG back Slot in the form of arrivals this time around, the possibilities could be endless.

On the transfer front, the rumours are already coming thick and fast too. Names such as Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike have both been mentioned as reported targets in recent weeks and it’s clear that a forward will be among Liverpool’s priorities in the coming months.

What that will mean is the likely end for Darwin Nunez at Anfield. The struggling striker is reportedly expected to depart following three frustrating years, which have been full of moments or glimpses of quality rather than the star No.9 that Liverpool were looking to sign in 2022.

In a season of strengths, one of Liverpool’s weaknesses has come within their frontline amid inconsistencies from Diogo Jota, Nunez and even Luis Diaz at times – leaving Mohamed Salah to drag the Reds to victory.

The Egyptian has enjoyed a historic season whilst those around him have struggled to stand out and could yet have a new-look attack to work with as a result next season.

FSG attentive to Morgan Rogers' situation

One player who would certainly help light a fresh spark in Liverpool’s attacking play is Morgan Rogers. According to Fabrizio Romano for Give Me Sport, FSG are on high alert in the race to sign Rogers and Liverpool have scouted the Aston Villa star several times. Any deal will not be easy, however, given Villa’s place as a European competitor these days and their reluctance to sell one of their best players.

Whilst Rogers wouldn’t feature directly in Liverpool’s frontline, his influence from midfield would only add another outlet for the Premier League champions, just as it has done for Villa this season.

Praised for his “fantastic season” by scout Jacek Kulig, Rogers has scored 14 goals in all competitions whilst assisting a further 13 throughout the current campaign. To put it simply, the interest of the Premier League champions should come as little surprise.

Aston Villa have now held talks to sign an in-demand attacker who has been likened to boyhood Villa fan Jack Grealish.

Aston Villa looking for more Champions League football after PSG exit

The Villans nearly produced a memorable Champions League comeback in the week against Paris Saint-Germain after finding themselves 5-1 down on aggregate early in the second leg.

Goals from Youri Tielemans, John McGinn and Ezri Konsa meant that Villa would win the second leg 3-2 in front of their fans, but they fell agonisingly short of progressing to the semi-finals.

Talking after the game, Unai Emery challenged his Villa side to qualify for the Champions League again next season in the Premier League run in. “It is now most important to get Europe again. The most important competition is the Champions League. The challenge we have for the last six matches is to try and get Europe and the Champions League.

“The players showed their capacity to compete at this level. Hopefully we can come back quickly to play in the Champions League. This is our objective and to play in the FA Cup as well for a trophy.”

Aston Villa vs Newcastle United

April 19

Man City vs Aston Villa

April 22

Aston Villa vs Fulham

May 3

Bournemouth vs Aston Villa

May 10

Aston Villa vs Tottenham

May 18

Man Utd vs Aston Villa

May 25

With six games to go, Villa go into this weekend’s crucial top flight clash against Newcastle United a point off Manchester City in fifth. A win would see them go level on points with the Magpies who currently sit third, and they also have an FA Cup semi-final at Wembley to prepare for later this month against Crystal Palace.

It is promising to be an eventful end to the campaign on the pitch, and behind the scenes, NSWE and Monchi appear to be working on potential new signings.

Aston Villa racing to sign "complete" £39m defender with shades of Rudiger

The Villans are set to battle it out for a centre-back…

ByDominic Lund Apr 18, 2025

Recently, it has been reported that Aston Villa are looking to close a deal to sign Rosenborg star Sverre Nypan, with the 18-year-old also wanted by Arsenal. Now, Villa have made their move for another in-demand teenager.

Aston Villa hold talks to sign Crystal Palace youngster Derry

According to TBR Football, Aston Villa are in talks to sign Crystal Palace gem Jesse Derry. Son of former Crystal Palace and QPR midfielder Shaun Derry, the 17-year-old has been catching the eye coming through the Eagles’ academy.

Derry, called a “talented ball carrier”, has even been likened to Grealish due to his hair and having low socks when playing, and he has rejected the chance to sign professional terms with Crystal Palace.

As a result, Villa are looking to take advantage, alongside Manchester City, whereas other huge European clubs such as Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, Juventus and PSG have also made contact.

Capable of playing anywhere across a front three or even as an attacking midfielder, Derry looks set to be one to watch over the coming months.

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers isn’t hanging around with the summer window around the corner and could now turn his attention to a surprise target, per reports.

Celtic's summer window is beginning to take shape

The Bhoys are well on course for the Scottish Premiership title and may seal their fate this weekend if they emerge victorious against Kilmarnock followed by Aberdeen defeating Rangers 24 hours later.

Unfortunately, Celtic missed their chance to guarantee league glory after a surprise defeat to St Johnstone last Sunday. However, Brendan Rodgers will know that misfortune will just be a minor setback en route to domestic glory.

With all that said, what does it mean for the reigning champions’ prospects come the window? On the face of it, the Hoops appear to be proactive at an early stage.

Augsburg midfielder Elvis Rexhbecaj is said to be on Celtic’s radar and could be available for £3 million. On the same token, long-term target David Strelec is attainable for £4.2 million as potential competition to Daizen Maeda and Adam Idah across the frontline.

The fee could stretch to £5.9 million with add-ons, though Celtic would have no problem in paying a premium amid their rude financial health. On the flip side, that could prove to be a downside when negotiating for particular targets.

Celtic may lose "very good" £16k-p/w star amid surprise escape route offer

Celtic could offload a number of stars this summer ahead of next campaign.

BySean Markus Clifford Apr 8, 2025

Nevertheless, there is little time to waste with Champions League qualifiers kicking off in the early part of next season. Rodgers will know his side need to be ready if they have designs on securing a spot in the league phase.

Stocking up on talent, the Irishman has now turned his attention to a surprise target who could bolster the ranks ahead of 2025/26.

Celtic look to strengthen goalkeeping ranks with Martin Dubravka

According to Chronicle Live, Celtic have taken an interest in Newcastle United’s Martin Dubravka amid his uncertain future at St James’ Park due to rumours linking James Trafford with a move to the North East.

Coming as a surprise, the Bhoys could now pursue the Slovakia international despite already having Kasper Schmeichel and Viljami Sinisalo between the sticks. The latter has filled in recently due to his counterpart being ruled out with a shoulder injury.

Martin Dubravka vs Kasper Schmeichel and Viljami Sinisalo – domestic league

Martin Dubravka – Premier League

Save percentage rate

70.9%

Clean sheets

5 in 10 appearances

Goals conceded

12

Kasper Schmeichel – Scottish Premiership

Save percentage rate

77.3%

Clean sheets

19 in 30 appearances

Goals conceded

20

Viljami Sinisalo – Scottish Premiership

Save percentage rate

83.8%

Clean sheets

1 in 2 appearances

Goals conceded

1

Labelled “excellent” by Tom Heaton, the 36-year-old has racked up nearly 180 appearances for Newcastle United and earns £40,000 per week on the books at his current employers.

Observing the financial realities that come with PSR regulations in England, Dubravka may be a fairly straightforward sacrifice if Celtic want to deal for the veteran stopper.

Well, that was about as perfect a game as Chelsea are going to have this season.

Following their win over Burnley at the weekend, Enzo Maresca’s side were given the daunting task of hosting Barcelona in the Champions League.

However, instead of wilting under the pressure, the Blues stepped up and completely blew the Spanish giants aside.

From the first minute to the last, Chelsea were exceptional, and there were more than a few standout performers, including Estevao and someone who made light work of what should’ve been a challenging task.

Estevao's magical night vs Barcelona

When Chelsea secured the services of Estevao last summer, there was a lot made of the youngster.

In fact, just a few months before that, respected analyst Ben Mattinson had labelled him a “future Ballon d’Or winner.”

Now, while there is still some way to go for that prediction to be proven true, the youngster certainly helped make it look like a good one on Tuesday night.

From practically the first minute until he came off in the 83rd, the 18-year-old was a massive threat, both in terms of his own goalscoring ability and creativity.

He was the scorer of the Blues’ all-important second goal on the night, beating two defenders with some quick feet and firing the ball into the roof of the net.

It means he is now the second-youngest player to score in his first three starts in the competition, after only Kylian Mbappé.

Unsurprisingly, the teenager left quite the impression on the watching press as well, with the Express’ Charlie Griggs awarding him a 9/10 match rating and writing that he ‘led the attacking charge at times.’

Perhaps the best thing that can be said about Estevao’s performance against Barcelona is that he totally outshone the other wonderkid in Lamine Yamal.

Although the Brazilian wasn’t the only Chelsea player to get the better of the young Spaniard.

Chelsea's other standout star vs Barcelona

The brilliant thing for Maresca and Chelsea fans is that you could realistically make the case for any number of their players being the best on the pitch on Tuesday night.

Chalkboard

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

However, when it comes to the starter who really shone, potentially even more so than Estevao, it’s hard to look past Marc Cucurella.

The Spanish full-back was utterly superb against Barcelona, and even though he had the challenging task of trying to stop their free-flowing attack, he didn’t once look flustered.

Moreover, he came out comfortably on top in his duel with Yamal.

In fact, he was so dominant and so on top of the young wonderkid that he was practically anonymous throughout the match, so much so that the Stamford Bridge faithful were safe to openly mock him.

Now, it’s not the first time the former Brighton & Hove Albion ace has locked down a superstar attacker, but given the competition, it’s undoubtedly one of the more high-profile examples.

Understandably then, he also left quite the impression on Griggs, who awarded him a 9/10 match rating at full-time, writing that he ‘locked down the left flank with ease and posed a danger up front.’

That might sound like hyperbole, but the 27-year-old’s statistics prove otherwise.

Minutes

93′

Expected Assists

0.59

Tackles (Won)

5 (4)

Interceptions

1

Clearances

2

Blocked Shots

1

Recoveries

4

Aerial Duels (Won)

1 (1)

Key Passes

1

Passes

55/63

Touches

97

In his 93 minutes of action, he produced an expected assists figure of 0.59, won four of five tackles, made one interception, played one key pass, recovered the ball four times, took 97 touches, made two clearances and blocked one shot.

Ultimately, it was yet another performance that proved Cucurella is one of the best left-backs in the world, and as one content creator said, if he keeps it up, he’s well on his way to becoming “a Chelsea legend.”

Shades of Drogba: Chelsea make contact to sign £26m Liam Delap upgrade

Chelsea could already be about to sign a replacement for Liam Delap.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Nov 25, 2025

Juventus head coach Luciano Spalletti has warned his players of the challenges that come with Tuesday's Champions League visit to Bodo/Glimt's Aspmyra Stadion. The former Italy and Napoli manager admitted that the visitors will be at an obvious disadvantage due to the adverse weather and pitch conditions, while also reassuring that his team will improve with time.

Juve face daunting trip to Bodo/Glimt

Juventus will visit Norwegian heavyweights and giant killers Bodo/Glimt on matchday five of the Champions League on Tuesday. It will be an extremely tricky challenge for the Bianconeri, given the adverse weather and pitch conditions on offer at the Aspmyra Stadion. 

Located north of the Arctic Circle, the Aspmyra Stadion is among the northernmost footballing venues in the world, located at 67 degrees latitude. Situated on the west coast of Norway, it is a hotspot for tourists and locals to experience the enchanting Northern Lights (or aurora borealis). Weather forecasts for Tuesday indicate temperatures sitting at an icy 1°C, along with potential snowfall. 

However, it's not just the unforgiving weather conditions visiting teams have to deal with. Aspmyra Stadion uses an artificial pitch, a surface that often challenges visiting teams. The likes of Jose Mourinho and Ange Postecoglou have often called Bodo out for their use of the "plastic" field. 

AdvertisementGetty Images SportSpalletti aware of the task at hand

Speaking to at the pre-match press conference on Monday, Juve boss Spalletti acknowledged the challenge of playing at the Aspmyra Stadion and conceded that the hosts will head into the clash with an obvious advantage.

"Not the ideal climate for a football match? It's a very tough match. We were joking with the players and I told them it's tougher than they expected," said the ex-Napoli boss. "I've had to deal with these temperatures on these pitches, and it's a different experience, breathing in this cold air. Sometimes you can't even keep your eyes open. But there's always the thrill of the challenge."

Spalletti also addressed the team's recent string of unconvincing displays, reassuring that the best is yet to come.

"I think it's premature to completely overturn everything right now. We haven't done well, but we haven't done badly either," he explained. "We're in that middle ground where, with some new things, we can raise the bar. We have a bit of everything here, but we need to recognise them and deploy them at the right times.

"These guys are perfect; they're eager to participate and show off their skills. Tomorrow I'll change something, otherwise we risk losing confidence, and then we need to analyse things properly.

"In the camp, there's no longer the rigidity of roles that seems like disorder but is actually freedom. In that freedom, you have to find balance. This constant rotation of roles and the search for a position is an advantage."

'Pitch and climate a disadvantage' for Juve, admits Spalletti

Spalletti went on to highlight the biting cold and artificial turf at Bodo, a far cry from the traditional grass pitches found in Europe’s elite leagues. 

"Did you mention the weather? Let's address one thing first, because it seems like we've had a bit of a disaster," he added. "But the players haven't performed as badly as people pretend. I was the first to say we needed to do more, and we need to get them out there, we need to use the horses we have and all our qualities. I've seen the desire in this team, and you either face responsibility or you lose. 

"The pitch and the climate are a disadvantage, because I've been fortunate enough to work abroad, and the air you breathe is different. It's all a matter of habit, and it's different from ours. Our desire to perform must make up for this gap. They're also good at selecting players, and not just for the pitch and the cold; in an international comparison, they have a significant value.

"[Playing at the Aspmyra Stadion] is a real difficulty, due to habits and rebounds. We'll certainly pay something for this, but we'll face it. We all had fears, then after facing them we adapted, but this can give us some satisfaction. The pitch bothers us, but we want to perform our best."

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AFPSpalletti's Juventus reign not off to an ideal start

After beginning his spell with the Old Lady with a 2-1 win over Cremonese, Spalletti's side have slumped to three straight draws. Their European campaign stands at risk of collapsing if they fail to come away with maximum points from Norway on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Juve sit in seventh position in Serie A, seven points off the pace. However, Spalletti has assured that his troops will fight for the Scudetto until the end.

India prioritised recovery – both physical and mental – ahead of their Women’s World Cup final match against South Africa on Sunday

Vishal Dikshit01-Nov-20251:50

Chopra: India winning the World Cup will change women’s cricket landscape

Harmanpreet Kaur sat down for the pre-match press conference at the DY Patil Stadium, her face seemingly devoid of any emotion. There was only a simmering fire.She had cried uncontrollably after India sealed a high-octane victory over Australia in the semi-final. That was only two nights ago. Two nights to digest the high of beating serial World Cup winners. Two nights to come to terms with the fact the job isn’t quite done.”Well, the semi-final was a very high-pressure game and very intense,” Harmanpreet said on the eve of the final against South Africa. “After that, recovery was something which we all paid more attention to because the fresher we are, mentally, for the final, the better it will be.”Because we have been working hard for so many years and we have been batting day and night, whenever our batters camped or there were team camps. So, skill-wise we know we have done a lot and now it’s only about keeping ourselves fresh for tomorrow and recovery is something which we all talk about, and everybody is really taking that thing very seriously and hopefully tomorrow we will feel even fresher for the main game.India will be playing their third ODI World Cup final. South Africa, just their first.”Keeping yourself balanced and focused is something which is the key,” Harmanpreet said. “We are having those sessions where we have been talking about how we can be more focused and more balanced and at the same time keeping ourselves relaxed because this is the biggest stage and biggest opportunity for us, playing in home conditions and that also final match.2:27

WWC final – Can India come down from their high in time?

“But I think the most important thing is that we have to enjoy this because there is nothing bigger than this in our life as a cricketer and as a captain. So our focus is to enjoy this moment and keep taking small targets which we have to achieve as a team rather than thinking bigger targets because you can achieve bigger targets if you achieve the small targets.”Harmanpreet is into her fifth World Cup now, but this is her first as captain. India have arrived at the final after a topsy-turvy league stage that saw them win only three of their seven games. She was clear “there’s no bigger motivation than a World Cup final” to up their game.Related

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It's India's party, but the artistic hunters will come with their dancing shoes on

Rodrigues completes her redemption arc

“We know pretty well how it feels after losing [a World Cup final],” she said. “We’re really looking forward to the feeling of winning a final. Hopefully it’s going to be a special day for us tomorrow. We’ve worked really hard, and now it’s about getting everything together tomorrow.”India’s road to the semis looked wobbly right from the start. They began with collapses against Sri Lanka and Pakistan but turned things around to win both games. They lost all the matches they played against higher-ranked teams – South Africa, Australia and England – and it was only when they arrived in Navi Mumbai, a ground where they have had lots of success, that things picked back up.”We weren’t shaken up even once in the team because of those three big losses,” Harmanpreet said. “Even after that, everyone was together and everyone was talking about how to reach the final. We had a positive mindset which really helped us that we’re here now. When you have such a positive mindset and everyone feels from within to perform for the country…”We were definitely talking about where to improve but at the same time there was a common goal, there was the awareness that it’s a long process and there would be ups and downs, wins and losses. At the end of the day, what matters is we’re here in the final. So we used to think how to move forward after those losses, how to improve, be there for each other.”2:43

WWC final: Harmanpreet and Tryon will be key players

India have looked far more convincing over their last three matches, including a washout against Bangladesh. The XI seems more balanced, with six bowling options, bigger contributions from the bat, and all of it culminating in another historic victory against forever favourites Australia. That night ended with plenty of tears, from Jemimah Rodrigues on the field and Harmanpreet in the dugout as she hugged whoever came her way, crying into their arms.”I think I’m a very emotional person, and I cry a lot,” Harmanpreet said with a smile. “So it’s not like I cry only after losing. I have cried a lot after winning too, maybe yesterday you have seen me on television. But my team-mates have seen me in the dressing room many times – on small occasions also, whenever we have done well. I am the first person to cry.”As a player, these moments are very important. To beat a team like Australia, which is a big team and has always done well on the world stage. It’s not an easy thing to perform and be mentally strong in front of them. But I think overcoming that hurdle was something very special to all of us. I always tell my team that you don’t need to control your emotions. If you feel like crying, cry. At the same time, just keep enjoying. I think there is no bigger achievement or thing for us. Tomorrow is a special day and we will go with the same mindset.”There is a sell-out crowd expected for the final on Sunday.”The entire team is charged up, we’re there for each other and praying for each other,” Harmanpreet said. “That shows how close this team is and how ready we are for this match. Now it’s only giving your best, all the strategies and plans have been taking shape for the last two years. We had been planning for a home World Cup, what kind of conditions we’d get, so know it’s only about giving your 100%.”