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Roy

Kobbie Mainoo earns uncommon Roy Keane and Paul Scholes consensus after Michael Carrick return

by Soccer-News January 30, 2026

Roy Keane and Paul Scholes have shared their ideas on Kobbie Mainoo’s return to the Manchester United line-up, following Michael Carrick’s appointment as interim head coach.

The midfielder has labored his approach again into the beginning XI after being sidelined throughout Ruben Amorim’s time in cost.

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Earlier than Amorim was dismissed, Mainoo had began only one recreation throughout all competitions this season.

Below Carrick, although, issues have modified shortly. Mainoo has now began two consecutive league video games and is trying to set up himself once more within the squad.

Paul Scholes feedback on Kobbie Mainoo’s return to the Man Utd beginning XI underneath Michael Carrick

Photograph by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Pictures

Kobbie Mainoo made his first Premier League begin of the season in Manchester United’s 2-0 win over Manchester Metropolis within the remaining Manchester derby of the marketing campaign.

Mainoo performed the complete 90 minutes and featured alongside Casemiro in a two-man midfield pivot underneath Carrick.

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Scholes identified how vital it was to see Mainoo again within the line-up for Sunday’s match in opposition to Arsenal on the Emirates.

“I imply, that’s what I’m speaking about with what Arsenal is lacking,” the previous midfielder mentioned on the Stick with Soccer podcast.

“Kobbie and Fernandes, they make your crew play soccer. After they had simply been doing it with Fernandes, they despatched somebody to play.

“He didn’t actually have anybody to play with. Now, Kobbie’s additionally obtained that means to play with somebody. It makes a giant distinction.”

Roy Keane’s verdict on Man Utd and England midfielder Kobbie Mainoo within the post-Ruben Amorim period at Outdated Trafford

Mainoo featured alongside Casemiro once more in United’s 3-2 win over Arsenal on the Emirates, choosing up an necessary help for the successful objective.

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It marked back-to-back full matches within the Premier League for the 20-year-old, a primary for him this season.

Keane identified how shortly issues can shift in soccer, particularly after all of the discuss Mainoo’s future underneath Amorim appeared to fade away as soon as Carrick took over.

The Irishman mentioned: “Convey Mainoo again in, we’re speaking about six, seven weeks, so Mainoo ought to go away Man United.

“He goes, no, bide your time, you would possibly get that likelihood. However while you get the possibility, what he has executed.

“However what he’s executed Gary, with Mainoo – clearly in soccer you get alternatives – however you’ve obtained to take it.

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“[A] Man Metropolis dwelling derby recreation – huge recreation for United – Arsenal away. Arsenal have gone rather well. So that you couldn’t ask for any extra.

“Completely. It’s been sensible.”

Thus far this season, Mainoo has contributed two assists for Manchester United in his 16 appearances throughout all competitions through the 2025-26 marketing campaign.]

January 30, 2026 0 comments

Premier League

Roy Keane rants Michael Carrick lacks soccer information to win titles for Man Utd

by Soccer-News January 29, 2026

written by Soccer-News

has poured chilly water on solutions that ought to be appointed United’s everlasting supervisor,

since taking cost till the top of the season.

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These spectacular wins in opposition to two of the league’s high groups

insisting they need to search a distinct candidate for the everlasting function.

“Being caretaker supervisor is a distinct animal to being supervisor of United making an attempt to win league titles over the subsequent two, three, 4, 5 years,” Keane informed The Overlap podcast.

“We speak about what you want with Arsenal making an attempt to win league titles, the gamers there, and a brand new expertise for them.

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“So goes to be the supervisor of Man United? He hasn’t received sufficient expertise. I don’t assume he’ll have sufficient soccer information.

“I’m not saying Michael Carrick can’t be a high supervisor, however the timing for him to be supervisor of Man United in the summertime? I don’t see it.

“If he goes in and proves me unsuitable and begins competing and successful titles, I’ll say, ‘Inform you what. Unbelievable’.

“Neglect high 4 or high 5 over the subsequent few years. I’m on about successful titles. That’s the place Man United must be.”

Victories in opposition to the Premier League’s high two have led to some solutions Carrick may get the job on a full-time foundation, however former United captain Keane has warned in opposition to that

United have risen to fourth forward of Sunday’s residence recreation with and are on the right track for soccer subsequent season.

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Keane mentioned: “United ought to undoubtedly be fourth or fifth except the wheels come off, so simply doing which means you must turn into the supervisor of Man United?

“For those who’d requested us 4 or 5 weeks in the past who the longer term supervisor of Man United could be, Carrick wouldn’t have been talked about.”

Overlap host backed Keane’s view that United should “get the most effective” of their supervisor search, with Carrick presumably studying beneath a confirmed winner as an assistant.

Overlap host Gary Neville backed Keane’s view that United must ‘get the best’ in their manager search

Overlap host Gary Neville backed Keane’s view that United should ‘get the most effective’ of their supervisor search

Neville mentioned: “For those who’re going to handle one of many greatest golf equipment on the earth, and deal with the stress that’s going to be thrown at you, you must have years of expertise.

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“Suppose what (Mikel) Arteta did beneath Pep (Guardiola) at (Manchester) . If say (Luis) Enrique, (Thomas) Tuchel or (Carlo) Ancelotti got here in and Michael was there for 2 or three years with that particular person after which stepped up, that for me feels proper.

“I do assume that being a supervisor at after 4 months and a few years at is setting Michael up for failure.

“My concern is we’re going to finish up watching certainly one of our personal once more undergo some type of crash within the subsequent 18 months. The wheels will flip, we’ve seen this film earlier than.

“Manchester United ought to get the best-in-class supervisor they will on the earth that’s accessible in the summertime and appoint that supervisor proper now.”

January 29, 2026 0 comments

Premier League

Sutton’s predictions v ‘Roy Keane’ – Saipan star Eanna Hardwicke

by Soccer-News January 23, 2026

written by Soccer-News

Is that this AI’s worst prediction but?

Chris Sutton’s visitor this week, actor Eanna Hardwicke, performs Roy Keane in Saipan – a brand new movie concerning the former Manchester United captain’s notorious fallout with Republic of Eire supervisor Mick McCarthy earlier than the 2002 World Cup. It’s in cinemas from Friday.

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Naturally, we requested AI who would play Sutton if a movie have been ever made about him.

The very best match, apparently, is Hollywood heartthrob Tom Hardy – who’s 4 inches shorter than BBC Sport soccer professional Sutton however is AI’s best choice for the position as a result of he’s “identified for portraying powerful, brooding characters with emotional depth”.

“That simply reveals how approach off the mark AI is,” mentioned Sutton.

“However I am pleased with Tom Hardy, despite the fact that he’s not tall sufficient. Most individuals would most likely say I’m extra like Laurel and Hardy although.”

Sutton is making predictions for all 380 Premier League video games this season, towards AI, BBC Sport readers and quite a lot of friends.

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Hardwicke, who helps Aston Villa, is his visitor for week 23.

Do you agree with their scores? You can also make your individual predictions beneath.

The preferred scoreline chosen for every recreation is used within the scoreboards and tables on the backside of this web page.

An accurate consequence (selecting a win, draw or defeat) is value 10 factors. The precise rating earns 40 factors.

The disagreement between McCarthy and Keane triggered large controversy in Irish society over who was accountable, and regardless of one of the best efforts of former Taoiseach (Irish PM) Bertie Ahern, the duo couldn’t resolve their variations earlier than the match began, main Keane to overlook the World Cup.

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“I at all times assume it was extra refined and gray than generally it will get portrayed,” Hardwicke informed BBC Sport.

“Typically it will get simplified because the conflict between the one that wished to win in any respect prices – Roy – and the one that had extra of a ‘we’re completely happy to be right here’ strategy – Mick.

“I feel it’s far more advanced than that. Roy’s dedication to excellence and absolute rigour is inspiring – he’s such a logo of the best way the professionalism in soccer modified within the Nineties and 2000s, shifting away from the pub tradition that had existed.

“However Mick had a implausible enjoying profession too, as most likely essentially the most profitable Eire captain, after which was perhaps behind Jack Charlton because the second-most profitable Eire supervisor.

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“So, he knew learn how to win and he knew learn how to get one of the best out of a crew. That may be a actually necessary factor to tell apart as a result of they each wished to win – they only had alternative ways of going about it.

“In a approach, there’s a Greek tragedy aspect to the state of affairs as a result of they’re each on these totally different tracks, which each result in one place. So it was at all times sure to finish up the place it did.

“I got here out of the screening in Cork [where he and Keane were both born] and it was so satisfying to listen to very totally different reactions, all very near the pores and skin. Some individuals have been saying they have been fully with Roy on this second, whereas others have been completely on Mick’s facet.

“It makes this greater than only a sports activities story. All of us perhaps establish with one in all them greater than the opposite, relying on who you might be as an individual.”

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Chris Sutton and Eanna Hardwicke have been talking to BBC Sport’s Chris Bevan.

The AI predictions have been generated utilizing Microsoft Copilot Chat – we merely requested the device to ‘predict this weekend’s Premier League scores.

Premier League predictionsSaturday, 24 January

London Stadium, 12:30 GMT

Sunderland’s 3-0 win over West Ham on the opening weekend actually set the tone for each groups’ seasons, but it surely does not actually assist me a lot right here.

The Hammers’ win at Tottenham final week was extraordinary given their kind going into that recreation, however their dwelling report continues to be extraordinarily poor.

Sunderland, in the meantime, should not the identical drive on the street as they’re on the Stadium of Gentle, they usually haven’t gained away because the finish of October.

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Nonetheless, it has been such an odd season, with everybody beating everybody, that kind, historical past, tables and stats should not actually a lot assist with these predictions anyway.

Up to now few weeks, I’ve thought an excessive amount of about AI and gone down the stat path to attempt to beat it at its personal recreation, however that is not how I gained the predictions title in earlier seasons.

I must go along with my intestine intuition extra, and that is what I am doing right here.

Sutton’s prediction: 1-1

Eanna’s prediction: I am an Aston Villa fan however I’ve bought a little bit of affinity with Sunderland. 1-2

AI’s prediction: 2-1

I’m masking this recreation for BBC Radio 5 Dwell with Ian Dennis and it’s one other difficult one to name.

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Tottenham boss Thomas Frank actually wanted Tuesday’s win over Borussia Dortmund within the Champions League however he’s nonetheless beneath strain, and this isn’t a simple recreation for Spurs both.

When Liverpool went 1-0 up towards Burnley final week and have been creating a great deal of probabilities, I believed I used to be on for an actual rating – I might gone for a 2-0 Reds win.

I could not imagine it when Burnley equalised however that consequence sums them up, as a result of they’re nonetheless scrapping for survival on the backside of the desk, and combating onerous in each recreation.

It’s unlikely they’re going to keep up from right here, however it isn’t inconceivable. They most likely want one other 5 – 6 wins from their final 16 video games – they usually have had solely three so removed from their first 22.

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Their dwelling video games are going to be essential to get them to security, so this virtually feels must-win for Scott Parker’s facet, even at this stage.

The Clarets have been aggressive towards everybody thus far, together with at Anfield final week, however I nonetheless do not see them getting the consequence they want.

That is going be a really tight recreation and it smells of a 1-1 to me, however we have now already had 17 goalless attracts within the Premier League this season, so I’m going on pattern and selecting one other one right here.

That ought to assure we see just a few targets now. I’ve bought Spurs keeper Guglielmo Vicario in my fantasy crew, so I’m asking for hassle actually.

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Sutton’s prediction: 0-0

Eanna’s prediction: Burnley have nonetheless bought one thing to struggle for therefore I’m going to again them to get one thing right here. 1-1

AI’s prediction: 1-2

These two sides are subsequent to one another within the desk in eleventh and twelfth, and drew 1-1 initially of the season, so you understand that is going to be shut.

Fulham can have Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze and Calvin Bassey again from the Africa Cup of Nations, and I’m not studying an excessive amount of into their last-gasp defeat at Leeds final week anyhow.

Brighton will create probabilities – they at all times do – and I’m anticipating them to attain, however Fulham gained this recreation 3-1 final season with Iwobi scoring twice and I’m going for them once more this time.

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Sutton’s prediction: 2-1

Eanna’s prediction: Fulham are doing very well. 2-0

AI’s prediction: 1-1

Erling Haaland has not scored in open play in any of Manchester Metropolis’s previous eight video games – solely discovering the online with a penalty towards Brighton.

However his poor kind is just not Metropolis’s solely drawback. They froze within the Arctic Circle on Tuesday – I used to be at that recreation for five Dwell and Bodo/Glimt totally deserved their win.

It was a horrible consequence for Metropolis as a result of now they’re out of the highest eight within the Champions League and, with a squad ravaged by harm, they’re dealing with the prospect of two further video games within the play-offs.

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Nonetheless, new signing Marc Guehi can play on this recreation to convey some stability to their backline and Antoine Semenyo might be again so as to add some spark to their assault too.

And, whereas Wolves have been rejuvenated just lately and are 4 video games unbeaten within the league, I really feel like there might be some anger in Metropolis’s efficiency after such a disappointing week.

Sutton’s prediction: 3-1

Eanna’s prediction: Haaland can have time out! 4-0

AI’s prediction: 3-0

Liverpool performed very well towards Marseille on Wednesday however I’ve a sense they are going to discover this recreation much more tough.

Thoughts you, Bournemouth are a nightmare to foretell this season so, no matter I say right here, the other is more likely to occur.

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I’ve modified my thoughts just a few instances about this one – I began with a 1-1 draw, then went 2-1 to Bournemouth… however then I noticed Liverpool have gained on their previous three visits right here and a repeat result’s what I’ve talked myself into in the long run.

It needs to be a terrific recreation, although, regardless of the final result.

The Cherries are brilliantly unusual, and I at all times assume they’ve a objective in them – they are going to rating right here and have an actual go at Liverpool, however I do not assume they are going to fairly recover from the road.

Sutton’s prediction: 1-2

Eanna’s prediction: What occurred with Mohamed Salah and Arne Slot earlier than Christmas confirmed that gamers nonetheless fall out with their managers now, identical to Roy did!

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Salah is again within the fold now – however nevertheless you take care of it, there is no such thing as a approach of realizing, as a supervisor, if you’re going to get it proper. 2-2

AI’s prediction: 1-3

Sunday, 25 January

Gtech Neighborhood Stadium, 14:00

It is the groups starting with B that I’m struggling most with this season – I do not appear in a position to predict what Brentford, Brighton or Bournemouth will do. I’m not assured about getting Brentford proper this time both.

On paper, this appears fairly easy as a result of they’re so robust at dwelling and Igor Thiago is in good kind, however I can see Nottingham Forest making it tough for them due to the best way they play.

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From what I’ve seen of Brentford this season, their gameplan is to maintain it tight and look to counter rapidly however Forest will do precisely the identical.

With Sean Dyche’s facet being so deep, they will not depart any area behind and they’re going to even be seeking to rating on the break.

Sutton’s prediction: 2-1

Eanna’s prediction: Brentford are flying in the meanwhile. 2-0

AI’s prediction: 1-1

The wheels appear to be coming off in a giant approach at Palace. Marc Guehi has joined Manchester Metropolis, Oliver Glasner has hit out on the membership’s homeowners after saying he’ll depart and now Jean-Philippe Mateta needs away.

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It feels as if Glasner doesn’t wish to be there and though he appears to have been forgiven for his outburst concerning the membership’s hierarchy after defeat at Sunderland final weekend, I simply do not assume he’s going to be round for much longer.

Issues are removed from rosy for Chelsea in the meanwhile both, and I really feel a bit sorry for his or her supervisor Liam Rosenior. He’s getting a kicking in sure locations for a few of his methods and since he has come from Strasbourg, and I feel that’s unfair.

He is an progressive younger supervisor who has executed effectively for himself, and is hungry and bold.

If he was a younger continental coach, we’d be saying this man is marvellous. Let’s give him an opportunity.

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I do not see all the things going easily for Rosenior this season, however Chelsea bought over the road within the Champions League in midweek and I feel they are going to do the identical at Selhurst Park.

I simply do not know the place Palace go from right here, and it’s actually unhappy.

Possibly the top will come rapidly for Glasner, however he can not proceed to indicate his frustration publicly each week or two, as a result of that isn’t going to maneuver the membership ahead.

Sutton’s prediction: 0-1

Eanna’s prediction: I can see some targets right here. 3-2

AI’s prediction: 0-2

Aston Villa’s dwelling defeat by Everton final week confirmed once more how tough it’s to make predictions this season.

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Villa had gained their previous 11 dwelling video games earlier than then, and had been fairly dominant towards Everton within the league in latest seasons too. I used to be extraordinarily assured they might win to maintain the strain on Arsenal… and I used to be improper!

Now? Properly, Unai Emery’s facet have a protracted journey to Turkey within the Europa League earlier than this recreation they usually have just a few accidents to deal with too. John McGinn and Boubacar Kamara might be badly missed and I’m barely involved about their choices up entrance now Donyell Malen has left.

That is why I am backing Newcastle right here. They’re so robust in midfield however they’re particularly good at dwelling – I at all times fancy them to win at St James’ Park.

Sutton’s prediction: 2-1

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Eanna on why he helps Villa: It was fully by probability. My brothers have been at their first soccer match within the early Nineties, and it was Oxford United towards Villa – they have been with a relative who was an Oxford fan.

Villa have been a giant crew then with a number of Irish gamers like Steve Staunton and Paul McGrath, in order that they went ‘OK, we’re Villa!’ And I copied them. We’ve no reference to Birmingham in any respect, however I’m very completely happy to have inherited that – though one in all my brothers is now a Liverpool fan, and the opposite one does not care.

Eanna’s prediction: Villa are most likely one of the in-form groups on the planet over the previous couple of months. I’m simply the most important fan of Unai Emery – he’s an incredible coach and he typifies all that’s nice concerning the recreation.

We hardly spent something in the summertime and quite a lot of followers have been grumbling – I used to be one in all them – however what we’re doing simply goes to indicate what Emery has constructed, and with a crop of younger gamers. This might be a tricky recreation for us, however we’ll win. 2-3

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AI’s prediction: 2-2

Manchester United have been good beneath Michael Carrick within the Manchester derby. They completely deserved their win.

Carrick has talked about discovering some consistency to again up that efficiency and consequence however, even when they play effectively once more right here, it is an enormous ask for them to go to the Emirates and get one thing.

Arsenal dropped factors towards Nottingham Forest final trip within the Premier League but it surely nonetheless turned out to be weekend for them.

I do not see Mikel Arteta’s facet slipping up this time. Will probably be fascinating to see if the ‘Carrick impact’ can final however even when Arsenal make adjustments I at all times assume they are going to get the job executed.

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Carrick had a plan for taking part in towards Metropolis and it labored. He might need an concept about stopping Arsenal in open play too, however then United will nonetheless have their set-pieces to take care of.

Sutton’s prediction: 2-0

Eanna’s prediction: Roy would have been at entrance and centre of something that occurred on this recreation up to now! That clip of him and Patrick Vieira within the tunnel [in 2005] is superb. If he was enjoying for United, he would not be pleased with my prediction, both! 2-1

AI’s prediction: 3-1

Monday, 26 January

Hill Dickinson Stadium, 20:00

I am undoubtedly including Everton to my listing of groups who’re inconceivable to foretell. They’ve had some good outcomes this season, and a few actually disappointing ones too.

They are going to be with out the injured Jack Grealish right here however they have been depleted towards Villa final trip they usually have been good in that recreation.

Thierno Barry took his objective ever so effectively for his or her winner. I do know it was shut in but it surely was nonetheless a stunning end.

If you watch Barry intently, he’s irritating generally however he’s an actual nuisance and he’s so good within the air. I used to be impressed by Harrison Armstrong and Merlin Rohl as effectively, and having Iliman Ndiaye again after profitable the Afcon with Senegal will elevate Everton too.

Leeds beat Everton 1-0 at Elland Highway with a late penalty initially of the season, and this recreation might be simply as tight.

I used to be going to go for an Everton win by the identical scoreline however then I considered Dominic Calvert-Lewin coming again to his previous membership. He’s sure to attain, is not he?

Sutton’s prediction: 1-1

Eanna’s prediction: 3-1

AI’s prediction: 2-1

How did Sutton do final week?

Chris bought 4 right outcomes from the ten Premier League matches in week 22 with no precise scores, for a complete of 40 factors.

He beat AI, which managed solely two right outcomes with no precise scores for a tally of 20 factors, however not his visitor, WWE celebrity Drew McIntyre.

Drew additionally managed 4 right scores however that included one precise rating, that means he ended up on 70 factors.

The weekly win, nevertheless, went to the BBC readers. They managed three right scores however had two precise outcomes, giving them 90 factors.

January 23, 2026 0 comments

Premier League

Roy Keane responds to name for Michael Carrick to get everlasting Man United supervisor’s job after derby win

by Soccer-News January 18, 2026

written by Soccer-News

Roy Keane has performed down speak of Michael Carrick being appointed the everlasting Manchester United supervisor following over rivals Man Metropolis at Outdated Trafford.

swept away the gloom hanging over the membership, with second-half targets from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu underlining their dominance over a disappointing Metropolis aspect whose title hopes suffered a significant blow.

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Mbeumo, just lately returned from Africa Cup of Nations responsibility with Cameroon, completed clinically within the sixty fifth minute, and Dorgu received on the tip of a Matheus Cunha cross to ship the house followers into dreamland 10 minutes later.

However for an outstanding show by Metropolis goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma and three disallowed targets, United might have loved an much more emphatic margin of victory. The guests barely threatened, with prolific striker Erling Haaland afforded few probabilities.

The humbling defeat dealt a major setback to Metropolis’s hopes of reeling in Arsenal within the Premier League title race. As an alternative of chopping the hole on the prime to 3 factors, they may discover themselves 9 adrift if Arsenal beat Nottingham Forest in a while Saturday.

For United, it was the right begin to Carrick’s tenure following the sacking of Ruben Amorim as they moved provisionally into fourth place, as co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe watched on alongside administrators Omar Barrada and Jason Wilcox.

United gamers have a good time with Mbeumo after his purpose (Manchester United through Getty Photos)

Talking as a pundit on Sky Sports activities, ex-Metropolis striker Daniel Sturridge mentioned United’s hierarchy ought to take into account Carrick – whose contract runs solely till the summer season – as a everlasting supervisor past the present season ought to he ship a string of performances akin to this derby win.

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“Why not?” Sturridge mentioned. “Why do it’s good to look elsewhere?”

Keane mentioned: “He’s solely been there for 3 days … It was the dream situation for him. Everybody’s out there. You’ve received Manchester Metropolis at dwelling, who’ve been slightly off. You can have had a person despatched off – timing and slightly little bit of luck, they’ve made essentially the most of it.

“I’m taking nothing away from him. I’m glad to provide credit score the place it’s due. And unbelievable right this moment. However everybody simply settle down.”

“I’m calm,” responded Sturridge.

“Settle down much more,” mentioned Keane. “You’re saying, give him the job!”

Keane urged Carrick’s tactical defeat of Pep Guardiola was not essentially a masterclass however merely the technique any coach would have adopted in the identical situation.

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“What’s his goal, to complete fourth?” Keane mentioned. “Nicely, that’s what Man United must be pondering. We shouldn’t be sitting there scratching our heads, going, ‘might United fourth?’ Fourth is a sensible goal.

“The previous couple of months now we have been saying, due to the way in which the league is in the meanwhile, there’s an opportunity for United to complete fourth. It’s not miracles we’re speaking about right here. And if he will get to fourth, and he doesn’t get the [permanent] job, it’ll nonetheless lead Carrick to get one other job someplace, as a result of folks look and hearken to how he has dealt with himself. He’s been nice. He’s been cool and United performed a optimistic manner. However most individuals who would have took this job right this moment would have performed that manner.”

January 18, 2026 0 comments

Premier League

Roy Keane: Liverpool had been ‘by far the higher workforce’ in opposition to Arsenal

by Soccer-News January 9, 2026

written by Soccer-News

Roy Keane’s Reward Got here With a Warning for Liverpool After Arsenal Stalemate

There are matches that reveal extra in what they withhold than in what they provide. Liverpool’s goalless draw with Arsenal on the Emirates was a kind of video games: intense, managed, and unusually unresolved. It was a contest that spoke loudly about authority, resilience and maturity, however whispered doubts about sharpness the place it issues most.

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That contradiction sat on the coronary heart of Roy Keane’s post-match evaluation. The previous Manchester United captain, , admired a lot of what Liverpool did in opposition to Arsenal, but couldn’t ignore the one failing that in the end outlined the night. His feedback, initially reported by Empire of the Kop, captured each the reassurance and the unease that now encompass Arne Slot’s aspect.

This was not a critique pushed by nostalgia or pundit theatre. It was exact, grounded, and uncomfortable exactly as a result of it rang true.

Premier League 2025/26 Arsenal v Liverpool Emirates Stadium 08.01.2026 Liverpool supervisor Arne Slot Premier League 2025/26 Arsenal v Liverpool Emirates Stadium 08.01.2026 {Photograph} By Marc Aspland The Occasions PUBLICATIONxINxGERxAUTxSUIxONLY Copyright: xMarcxAsplandx NINTCHDBPICT001050202858

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Management With out Conclusion on the Emirates

Liverpool arrived in north London carrying questions on accidents, absentees and attacking fluency. They left with a degree, management of enormous stretches of the match, and a way that that they had eliminated Arsenal’s momentum virtually solely.

Keane acknowledged that dominance. He famous how Liverpool “took the power out of the stadium”, a phrase that spoke volumes. The Emirates, usually reliant on tempo and emotion, was subdued by Liverpool’s composure in midfield and their willingness to dictate rhythm fairly than chase it.

This was not passive management. Liverpool pressed intelligently, recycled possession with confidence and prevented Arsenal from constructing sustained stress. For lengthy spells, notably after the interval, they appeared just like the aspect more than likely to win.

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But soccer shouldn’t be scored on territorial authority or composure alone. And that, for Keane, was the place the evaluation sharpened.

Roy Keane’s Verdict on Reducing Edge

Keane’s central criticism was delivered with out drama: Liverpool didn’t do sufficient the place it issues most. “You’ve received to place the ball at the back of the web,” he mentioned, declaring that dominance with out incision in the end leads nowhere.

Regardless of controlling midfield areas and limiting Arsenal’s risk, Liverpool didn’t register a single shot heading in the right direction. For all of the construction and self-discipline, there was a bluntness within the remaining third that undermined the remainder of the efficiency.

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Keane was cautious to steadiness criticism with context. He admitted he had been involved about Liverpool’s midfield earlier than kick-off, solely to be confirmed incorrect by how comprehensively they dealt with Arsenal in that zone. “They managed it,” he mentioned, describing Liverpool as “by far the higher workforce”.

However that superiority demanded a payoff. With out it, the efficiency turned admirable fairly than decisive.

Battle, Swagger and a Acquainted Absence

One in every of Keane’s most hanging observations was his reference to Liverpool’s “combat and swagger”. These are qualities which have, at occasions this season, appeared intermittent. Towards Arsenal, they returned in full.

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Liverpool had been combative with out being reckless, assertive with out being chaotic. They gained duels, disrupted Arsenal’s build-up and confirmed the mentality of a aspect that also believes itself to be among the many league’s elite.

But swagger alone doesn’t win matches. It should be paired with readability within the attacking third, with moments of precision that rework stress into targets. With out that, Liverpool danger turning into a aspect admired for management however outlined by frustration.

The absence of key attacking choices provided partial clarification, however not absolution. At elite stage, alternative should nonetheless be transformed, even when assets are stretched.

What the Draw Means for Liverpool and Arsenal

For Arsenal, the draw was useful. They averted defeat, restricted injury and stay firmly embedded within the title dialog. For Liverpool, the implications are extra complicated.

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Keane’s evaluation urged a workforce near one thing coherent and harmful, however not fairly full. Defensive construction and midfield authority seem more and more dependable. The query is whether or not Liverpool can rediscover the ruthless edge that after turned management into inevitability.

As Empire of the Kop initially reported, Keane’s criticism was not dismissive. It was virtually encouraging in its readability. Liverpool, he implied, will not be far-off. However till they marry their combat and swagger with innovative, they may proceed to depart video games like this with factors earned fairly than factors seized.

In a season the place margins are slim and narratives shift weekly, that distinction could but show decisive.

January 9, 2026 0 comments

Premier League

Roy Keane Calls Kobbie Mainoo’s Brother ‘Fool’ Over Disrespectful Gesture

by Soccer-News December 18, 2025

written by Soccer-News

Manchester United’s wild 4-4 draw in opposition to Bournemouth at Outdated Trafford a couple of days in the past led to blended reactions from United followers. The crew is now sixth within the Premier League desk with 26 factors after this current draw.

Ruben Amorim is as soon as once more underneath strain to ship extra wins forward of the following couple of video games in opposition to Aston Villa, Newcastle United, Wolves, and extra.

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With the variety of video games piling up, followers had been in a position to see Amorim deliver on Kobbie Mainoo on the pitch in opposition to Bournemouth, which has been a really uncommon sight this season.

Mainoo performed half-hour in opposition to Bournemouth, marking his 11 appearances for Man United within the Premier League this season. This was the second sport in a row the place the English midfielder performed.

Kobbie Mainoo of Manchester United comes on in the course of the Premier League match between Manchester United and Bournemouth at Outdated Trafford on December 15, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photograph by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Photographs)

Many Manchester United followers expressed their frustration with Ruben Amorim for not taking part in Kobbie Mainoo typically, and one who made their voice heard at Outdated Trafford this week was Mainoo’s brother.

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Mainoo’s brother Jordan was seen carrying a ‘Free Kobbie Mainoo’ t-shirt at Outdated Trafford by followers, and the midfielder’s member of the family posted it on his Instagram account.

Manchester United legend Roy Keane was livid about this incident, and on The Overlap podcast, the previous Man United midfielder expressed annoyance on the act.

Roy Keane on Kobbie Mainoo’s Brother

On The Overlap podcast, Gary Neville, Ian Wright, and Roy Keane focus on Kobbie Mainoo’s brother carrying a shirt that learn, “Free Kobbie Mainoo.”

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Keane was not glad concerning the gesture and stated, “When he’s obtained his fool of his brother doing all that stuff – We should not even be giving his brother the time and day as a result of typically, you are simply surrounded by idiots, particularly within the household.”

The previous Manchester United midfielder questions the act and stated, “If my brother ever accomplished that, you would be wanting good, ‘What are you doing?’ He is underneath contract.”

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This story was initially printed by on Dec 18, 2025, the place it first appeared within the part. Add Athlon Sports activities as a

December 18, 2025 0 comments

Premier League

Liverpool out of title race and ‘in disaster’, says Roy Keane

by Soccer-News November 10, 2025

written by Soccer-News

Liverpool’s Premier League title defence was written off by Roy Keane after their .

Keane mentioned the reigning champions are in “disaster” following a fifth Premier League defeat of their final six matches, whereas fellow Sky Sports activities pundit Micah Richards attacked Florian Wirtz’s efficiency ranges since his £116m arrival.

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Final season beat Metropolis 2-0 residence and away on their solution to the title, however they had been decidedly second greatest on the Etihad, swept apart by targets from Erling Haaland, Nico González and the excellent Jeremy Doku, with Haaland lacking a penalty besides.

“At this second in time, you possibly can’t be contemplating Liverpool for the league title,” mentioned Keane, the previous Manchester United captain, after Liverpool’s “flat” show.

“I feel it’s disaster time for Liverpool. We all know they are often crushed at Man Metropolis. We all know it’s a troublesome place to return and Man Metropolis, the indicators are they’re clearly getting again to the easiest. However to lose seven in 10 and 5 league losses already this season, it needs to be a disaster for a membership like Liverpool.”

He added that Liverpool “seemed like a extremely weak staff immediately”. “I’m going again to that phrase – lack of depth, lack of power, chopping and altering and bringing your subs on, it simply seemed actually flat.”

Richards, who agreed with Keane’s verdict that Liverpool look unlikely title challengers, expressed explicit concern over Wirtz’s shows since arriving as considered one of European soccer’s most coveted playmakers final summer time.

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“If you happen to get purchased for £100-plus million, you need to be able to go,” mentioned the previous Manchester Metropolis full-back. “Right now we didn’t see Wirtz once more, and that turns into an issue for the supervisor.”

Florian Wirtz did not impress once more – Reuters/Jason Cairnduff

Richards mentioned he had beforehand “protected” Wirtz, however he then added: “I feel that if you’re purchased for that amount of cash, no matter what league you’re coming from, you must present greater than what you’re exhibiting now.”

In the meantime, fellow Sky Sports activities pundit Gary Neville mentioned Wirtz seemed like a “little boy” in opposition to Metropolis.

“Wirtz is an issue,” Neville mentioned on his podcast post-match.

“Let’s simply name it as it’s. It’s a difficulty. He’s £100m-plus, and to be honest, I mentioned a number of weeks in the past [Milos] Kerkez seemed like somewhat boy on the market. Right now I assumed Wirtz seemed like somewhat boy. That may’t be the case.

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“We’ve been tiptoeing round him for a number of months, round the truth that he’s younger, he’s coming to a brand new nation, however he’s £100m-plus, you’re going to have to face up quickly.”

Daniel Sturridge mentioned Wirtz wanted to be given extra time to settle in, however he accepted “it’s not understanding in the meanwhile” for his former aspect. “I feel that the cohesion and the chemistry that the staff had final season has clearly disappeared,” he mentioned. “It’s not there anymore. It’s not the identical outfit that we’re used to seeing.”

Slot fumes at ‘incorrect determination’ to disallow equaliser

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Arne Slot hit out at an “apparent and clear” mistake after Liverpool had a aim controversially dominated out .

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The Premier League champions had been trailing to a header from Erling Haaland, who had an earlier penalty saved, when Virgil van Dijk headed residence Mohamed Salah’s nook within the thirty eighth minute.

However Andy Robertson, who was standing in an offside place, was deemed to have blocked the road of imaginative and prescient of Gianluigi Donnarumma, with VAR ruling the Liverpool defender had made an “apparent motion” in entrance of the Metropolis goalkeeper.

Slot claimed the incorrect determination had been made however insisted that was not the explanation his aspect misplaced as Pep Guardiola hailed an “unbelievable current” in his .

“It’s troublesome to present my view. It’s apparent and clear that the incorrect determination has been made, no less than in my view,” the Liverpool supervisor mentioned. “He didn’t intervene in any respect with what the goalkeeper might do. Instantly after the sport somebody confirmed me the aim that the identical referee [Chris Kavanagh] allowed – Metropolis in opposition to Wolves final season.

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“So it took the linesman 13 seconds to boost his flag to say it was offside. So there was clearly communication, however as I mentioned that might have influenced the sport in a optimistic means for us.

“I want to emphasise the very fact being 2-0 down at half-time was a good reflection of how the sport went. However I’ve been on the other aspect when my staff was significantly better than the opposite staff and 1-0 up and perhaps not scored the second and the opposite staff will get a set-piece and it’s 1-1, and impulsively issues change.

“At 1-1 it might have been the largest reward we might have at half-time. For my part the second half was a special sport, however 2-0 down and 3-0 down it isn’t a great reflection of how issues might have went at 1-1.” Slot nonetheless acknowledged that Metropolis had been the superior aspect as Liverpool slumped to a fifth defeat of their final six Premier League outings and admitted his aspect – who path leaders Arsenal by eight factors – had an enormous quantity of floor to make up.

“It feels there’s too many [defeats] and the very last thing I ought to take into consideration now’s the title race,” he mentioned. “We must always first concentrate on getting outcomes – consequence and consequence after consequence – earlier than we will even take into consideration that. The fact is we’re eighth now, one staff is sort of far forward, though Metropolis is 4 factors away from Arsenal. The remainder is sort of shut. The very last thing we should always concentrate on is the title race. We have to enhance and that’s apparent.”

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Victory moved Metropolis to inside 4 factors of leaders Arsenal, who dropped factors the , and Guardiola believes his re-energised aspect have gotten “unpredictable” for opponents.

“I feel we’re extra unpredictable, I might say, in the best way we assault and the best way we defend – that’s good for us and never good for the opponents,” the Metropolis supervisor mentioned.

“They don’t know perhaps what we’re going to do. However we’ve got good power throughout the sport. I simply say thanks to the gamers and workers to present me that unbelievable current, to win in opposition to crucial opponent that we confronted in our time right here [in England] by far. It has been a particular evening with my youngsters right here. It was a great lesson, generally you need to reside that as a membership. For the membership itself it was good.”

November 10, 2025 0 comments

Premier League

Roy Keane points blunt verdict on Liverpool’s Premier League title hopes after ‘weak’ loss at Man Metropolis

by Soccer-News November 10, 2025

written by Soccer-News

mentioned Liverpool are not within the title race after a chastening defeat by Manchester Metropolis left them eight factors behind leaders Arsenal after 11 video games.

Erling Haaland, Nico Gonzalez and the sensational Jeremy Doku bought the objectives in as Metropolis moved to be solely 4 factors off the Gunners, who’ve 26, forward of the worldwide break.

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Liverpool had been flat, significantly within the first half, and regarded effectively off the tempo they set as final season’s runaway champions. They lie eighth within the desk, stage with Aston Villa, Bournemouth, Manchester United and fifth-placed Tottenham on 18 factors. Chelsea are third in with 20 factors and Sunderland are fourth with 19 going into the Premier League’s two-week break.

And Keane thinks the hole, and Liverpool’s poor type,

“You’ll be able to’t be contemplating Liverpool for the title,” mentioned Keane, talking on Sky Sports activities. “That was a sore defeat. However this jogged my memory of Metropolis of previous. They had been excellent. They’re again within the combine.”

Liverpool had been briefly buoyed this week by wins over Aston Villa and Actual Madrid, however defeat by Metropolis means they’ve misplaced seven of their previous 10 video games.

(Getty Photos)

“I feel it’s disaster time for Liverpool,” mentioned Keane. “It is OK to lose to a membership like Man Metropolis – it is a powerful place to return – however to lose seven in 10, 5 league losses already, that needs to be a disaster for a membership like Liverpool.

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“I assumed Liverpool regarded like a extremely weak workforce at present. The supervisor mentioned he was happy with the second half, however the sport was over. It is simple to play effectively once you’re not enjoying for something.”

He added: “I assumed [Slot’s] evaluation of the sport was spot on. Metropolis regarded stronger, technically higher and extra bodily than Liverpool at present. [Liverpool] nonetheless had moments, they’ve at all times bought high quality, however the objectives they’re making a gift of – their determination making – was not adequate. There was a scarcity of depth, a scarcity of power. The subs, after they got here on, regarded actually mushy.

“I feel it’s a disaster for Liverpool.”

Liverpool’s £100m summer season signing Florian Wirtz has come underneath scrutiny for his type since becoming a member of from Bayer Leverkusen and, regardless of impressing within the midweek Champions League win over Actual Madrid, he struggled once more.

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Former Metropolis defender Micah Richards feels the playmaker has created an undesirable problem for Slot.

“Right now we did not see Wirtz once more and that turns into an issue for the supervisor,” he mentioned. “In case you are purchased for that sum of money, regardless from what league you might be coming from, you need to be exhibiting greater than he’s exhibiting now. You get purchased for that cash to point out up in massive video games.”

November 10, 2025 0 comments

Champions League

Roy Keane names Liverpool’s largest drawback thus far this season

by Soccer-News October 25, 2025

written by Soccer-News

Liverpool Defence Below Highlight After Keane’s Verdict

Liverpool might have delivered an emphatic 5,1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt within the Champions League, nevertheless questions proceed to hover over their defence. Roy Keane has been significantly vocal concerning the Reds challenges on the again, providing a agency evaluation of what he considers the membership’s important impediment this season.

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Liverpool supporters have been inspired by the attacking fluency underneath Arne Slot, however the defensive frailties haven’t gone unnoticed. The system stays comparatively new and requires time to settle, but there may be concern about how simply chances are high being conceded.

Keane’s Considerations Over Liverpool Type

Keane has not shied away from outlining the place he believes Liverpool are falling brief. The previous midfielder shared his trustworthy ideas on the Follow Soccer Podcast, saying: “I believe clearly the most important drawback is defensively. Going ahead, there’s a objective risk,” he stated.

He continued, “The lads are slightly bit off, however they’ve come again and so they’ve acquired high quality. However defensively, and we began the beginning of the season, going again to the Group Protect, they’re giving up probabilities.

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“You’re going, yeah, however they’re scoring, they’re scoring.

“And now that’s dried up. They’re nonetheless giving up a great deal of probabilities, a great deal of objectives, even in direction of the tip of final season. That’s the most important challenge.”

Photograph: IMAGO

Liverpool opened their Premier League marketing campaign with 5 straight victories, nevertheless the rhythm shifted after a 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace in late September. Since then, the facet have proven solely glimpses of their early season confidence. Points have stemmed from particular person errors in addition to structural imbalance, with Ibrahima Konate enhancing in latest weeks, though defensive solidity appeared stronger within the absence of Milos Kerkez.

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The uncertainty was compounded when one in all Konate’s errors led to Alisson selecting up an damage. It has not helped that Liverpool have been compelled into defensive reshuffles because the season has developed.

New System Brings Promise for Enchancment

Liverpool’s dominant efficiency in opposition to Frankfurt provided encouragement. Slot deployed his group in a modified 4-4-2, granting inventive gamers extra freedom. Florian Wirtz specifically thrived with further licence to roam and affect the tempo.

There was intrigue within the resolution to start out each Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak. Though the strike partnership lasted solely 45 minutes, it advised a attainable blueprint going ahead. The form offered stability in midfield and assault, contributing to the management Liverpool maintained for big phases of the match.

Photograph: IMAGO

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Mohamed Salah started on the bench, but the brand new system doesn’t diminish his affect. It as a substitute supplies flexibility for the place he could possibly be only. Salah can function centrally as a striker, particularly whereas Isak recovers from a groin challenge, or he can function on the precise wing the place he has been so influential for Liverpool over time.

Path Again to Defensive Stability

Slot’s tactical evolution gives recent hope that the Reds can rediscover the defensive resilience that outlined a lot of their latest profitable campaigns. Enchancment on the again will likely be essential if Liverpool are to maintain a Premier League title push and go deep into the Champions League. The framework is starting to take form, though consistency stays key.

Keane’s remarks seize the present sentiment across the membership, that Liverpool are thrilling, dynamic and able to scoring in opposition to any opponent, nevertheless the defence requires pressing and continued fantastic tuning. If the brand new system is constructed upon, the membership might quickly discover themselves in a far stronger place than the one Keane is anxious about.

October 25, 2025 0 comments

Premier League

Roy Keane urges Liverpool to ‘present some class’ after switching off in Premier League

by Soccer-News May 21, 2025

written by Soccer-News

has blasted for “switching off” since being topped champions.

The Reds sealed a record-equalling twentieth title with 4 video games to spare again in April, dismantling struggling Tottenham 5-1 at Anfield.

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However since attaining their crowning glory, Liverpool’s kind has declined sharply, solely choosing up a singular level from their final three video games.

legend Keane has now urged ’s aspect to “present a bit of sophistication” within the season run-in, even when they don’t have anything to play for.

“Liverpool have switched off – they’re irritating me,” he stated, talking on the Follow Soccer podcast with .

“It doesn’t matter (that they’ve gained the league), however the fringe gamers and the B crew are coming in – what sort of message is that?

“I’m considering come on – present a bit of sophistication. Salah scores a objective and he’s taking photos – the sport’s nonetheless on. Enliven a little bit bit!”

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Liverpool kicked off their champions tour with defeat at earlier than throwing away a two-goal lead at dwelling to closest title rivals at Anfield to attract 2-2.

Liverpool receiving a guard of honour towards Brighton (Getty Photos)

On Monday, Slot’s aspect had been as soon as once more unable to carry their benefit as got here from behind to win 3-2 towards a Reds aspect filled with fringe gamers – with summer season signing getting a uncommon begin on the Amex.

Reds followers are seemingly unbothered by their dip in kind, realizing that their principal objective of title success has already been achieved.

And it seems Slot and his gamers are already deep in get together mode, having spent a lot of final week celebrating in Ibiza somewhat than coaching for the ultimate challenges that lie forward.

The champions will raise the Premier League trophy on the ultimate day this Sunday as they host winners .

May 21, 2025 0 comments

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