The Pulse of Football

Dec

2024

Preview: New York Red Bulls and LA Galaxy in MLS Cup showdown

Given their terrible form towards the end of the regular season, few could have foreseen the New York Red Bulls getting within one match of lifting their first-ever MLS Cup. The LA Galaxy, going for their first MLS title in a decade, will surely make the final hurdle the toughest for the Red Bulls.

By Neel Shelat

Youthful RBNY looking to create history

Weighted by minutes played, the New York Red Bulls have the youngest squad in Major League Soccer this season. Their midfield contingent is particularly youthful, as their starting lineup from the Conference final shows.

Their more experienced attack holds the key to their success, though. At 43.2%, RBNY have the lowest possession average in MLS this season. Their approach is very much centred around defending solidly with a back five and then sending the front three away on the counter. That has served them quite well in the playoffs, as they have scored eight goals and kept three clean sheets in five matches. At least one of their front three has been involved in creating or scoring all but two of those goals.

Will the Galaxy’s attack click without Puig?

After narrowly missing out on the top spot in the Western Conference, the LA Galaxy have been the best team in the playoffs by some margin. They put nine past the Colorado Rapids in two matches to progress from the first round and hit Minnesota United for six in the Conference semi-final before getting a late winner against the Seattle Sounders to reach the final.

Such results surely make them the overwhelming favourites, but there is one big caveat to note. Star midfielder Riqui Puig tore his ACL in the Conference final, though he still managed to play on and get the decisive assist. Indeed, his fantastic and creative forward passing has been the key driving force behind the Galaxy’s thrilling attack.

As the top scorers in the league this season, the Galaxy will hope they have enough to make do without the former Barcelona midfielder. Each of their front three have over 20 goal involvements to their name this year, so they still have more than enough attacking threat to blow any defence apart. So, Greg Vanney will only really have to concern himself with supplying them appropriately.

Summer signing Marco Reus may well be the solution. The Borussia Dortmund legend started the last two playoff matches but had to operate in a slightly unfamiliar role on the right of midfield to keep Puig in his natural area on the left. In the Spaniard’s absence, Reus could well replicate his work on the left.

Prediction

Both the New York Red Bulls and the LA Galaxy like to adopt a transitional attacking approach, albeit in quite different ways. While Sandro Schwarz’s side like to counterattack after defending deep, the Galaxy are happier to keep more of the ball, lure their opposition out and then quickly spring forward. These contrasting approaches could well result in a cagey affair on the big night unless we get some early fireworks.

Whichever way you look at it, the Galaxy have to be considered the favourites, but the Red Bulls’ playoff run shows that they can’t be entirely written off.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

You can follow every game from MLS live with FotMob — featuring deep stats coverage, xG, and player ratings. Download the free app here.

Dec

2024

Preview: Madrid look to bounce back at Girona

It has been a poor couple of weeks for Real Madrid after defeat in the Champions League and another midweek reversal last time out at Athletic Club.

By Karl Matchett

Now, Madrid’s third match in a run of five away fixtures across six games (in all competitions) sees them head to Girona, stars of LaLiga last term but struggling to find the same verve this time around. Even with a tremendous campaign in 2023/24, the side who finished third were 14 points off champions Los Blancos – and Carlo Ancelotti’s side beat them by an aggregate scoreline of 7-0 across their two league meetings. Real might be stuttering, but they have certainly had Girona’s number so far.

This season

Look at Girona’s league form and it looks half-decent: four unbeaten, up to eighth, and only four points separating them from Villarreal in fifth. European football for next season is still very much on the cards, if they can find some consistency once more.

But, that’s the problem: they haven’t, and league fixtures aren’t the only ones they play. Girona have actually gone three without a win in all competitions following a cup shootout defeat to Logrones, a fourth-tier side. It’s two wins in six and six wins in 18, going back further. Stringing results together is tough at the top for those unused to it.

Real Madrid, meanwhile, had a very consistent start – seven victories in nine to start 2024/25 – but four defeats and three wins in their last seven paints a different recent picture. Injuries have hurt them, yes, but tactically and physically they’ve been dominated by Barcelona, Milan, Liverpool and now Athletic of late.

Team news

Yangel Herrera and Viktor Tsyhankov are the two big misses for Girona, but Yáser Asprilla is also a big miss if he doesn’t recover in time. Ladislav Krejčí is back though and should play right side of the back three.

Ancelotti may juggle his pack a little but options are hampered by defensive absences, with David Alaba, Éder Militão and Dani Carvajal all sidelined for the long haul. Eduardo Camavinga and Vinícius Júnior are also out with injuries.

Rodrygo set to step up

Real Madrid are second, four points off the top and with a game in hand – but to really pressurise Barcelona they have to start winning matches more often. With Vini Jr. out and Kylian Mbappé somewhat of a shadow of himself at present, Rodrygo must step up and show his immense worth. He averages just under a shot on target per 90 (0.9) but has created 22 chances this term in LaLiga – third in the squad behind Vinícius and Luka Modrić. That creativity plus his ball carrying – 2.1 successful dribbles per 90 is fewer than Vini’s, but his 53% success rate is notably higher – makes him Madrid’s main outlet and chief creator in the final third. Given he ranks above 93% of Europe in chance creating forwards, that must come to the fore here.

Prediction

An away win would get Madrid rolling once more, though perhaps not without Girona causing some concerns across the 90 minutes. Therefore, we’ll go with Girona 1 Real Madrid 3.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

You can follow every game from LaLiga with FotMob this season — featuring deep stats coverage, xG, and player ratings. Download the free app here.

Dec

2024

Preview: Man City out to make up for lost time at Crystal Palace

Pep Guardiola’s defending champions will be aiming to continue their recovery as they travel to face Oliver Glasner’s Eagles in South London.

By Ian King

Expect goals

Whether recent or ancient, history tells us that Crystal Palace vs Manchester City is a match that usually produces goals. The last four alone produced 17. It may surprise some to learn that these two clubs didn’t meet in the league until 1965. Their second of their only two meetings prior to this in the FA Cup came in January 1926 at Maine Road, when City beat Palace 11-4 as part of a run to the final which saw them score 31 goals in six games (including Manchester United 3-0 in the semi-final).

Recovery mode

Both teams will be in a considerably brighter frame of mind than they would have been had this match been played seven days earlier. The midweek matches brought welcome wins for both, Palace narrowly away to Ipswich and City convincingly at home against Nottingham Forest. The question facing both sets of players is that of whether these performances represent corners being turned or false dawns.

Key players

Kevin De Bruyne’s assured performance against Forest went a long way towards answering those who had questioned whether the Manchester City captain was part of a team that is ‘too old’. Another returnee from injury, Jérémy Doku, also scored against Forest after having been out since the match against Sporting in the Champions League last month.

Palace could do with a big performance from Jean-Philippe Mateta. They’re the lowest goalscorers in the Premier League at the moment with just twelve from their fourteen games so far, and he’s scored a third of them. And despite their clean sheet on Wednesday night, Palace will have seen that City remain potentially defensively vulnerable.

Team News

Players are starting to return for Manchester City, but that doesn’t mean that others aren’t still falling by the wayside. Nathan Aké sustained a hamstring injury in the closing stages of the midweek win over Forest and will join Rodri, Oscar Bobb, Mateo Kovačić and John Stones on the treatment table. In addition to this, Manuel Akanji was withdrawn at half-time, while Phil Foden has had bronchitis and it’s doubtful that he will be available.

Chadi Riad, Adam Wharton and Matheus França are all missing for Crystal Palace, but beyond that the news for them isn’t actually too bad. Cheick Doucouré was withdrawn at half-time during their win at Ipswich, but this has now been confirmed as precautionary on account of a booking that he’d picked up. Elsewhere, Dalchi Kamada returns following a three match suspension.

Prediction

Manchester City’s midweek win was in sharp progress to their prior recent performances, but was that run the blip or was it Wednesday night’s result? Kevin De Bruyne rumbling back to form is an ominous sign for the entire rest of the Premier League. More will likely follow. A win is a win for Crystal Palace at the moment, but they weren’t inspiring at Ipswich and City may find this a comfortable way to regain some more of their recently jettisoned poise. Therefore, let’s go for Crystal Palace 1-3 Manchester City.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

You can follow every game from the Premier League with FotMob this season — featuring deep stats coverage, xG, and player ratings. Download the free app here.

Dec

2024

Preview: Barcelona visit the happy hunting ground that is Real Betis

Barcelona take on Real Betis on Saturday in a game that could prove huge in their hunt for the title in LaLiga this season.

By Kaustubh Pandey

Hansi Flick‘s side find themselves four points clear at the top of the table and have played a game more but the gap could have been much less comfortable, if Real Madrid hadn’t stumbled against Athletic Club on Wednesday.

At the same time, the Catalan giants have themselves had a bit of a stumble in recent weeks.

Barcelona have won only one game out of their last four league games. They did recover from last weekend’s home defeat to Las Palmas by routing Mallorca 5-1 in midweek. But one thing is certain; there are some chinks in the armour of the Blaugrana.

Struggling Betis look for hope

Manuel Pellegrini‘s Real Betis had started off the season in a fine fashion but they have faded away over the last couple of months.

They haven’t won a single league game since beating Atlético Madrid towards the end of October and the last three have yielded only a single point. That run has included a 4-2 loss to struggling Valencia.

Pellegrini’s Los Beticos will be hoping to expose Barcelona’s recent problems, as they look to lift themselves in the top half of the table. They could be helped by their good home record, having lost just once at the Benito Villamarín.

Goalscoring a problem for Betis

Goalscoring has been an issue for Pellegrini’s side in recent weeks, with Betis having underperformed on their Expected Goals metric by about six.

They’ve created an xG of 22.4 but have scored 16 times only. On top of that, they have missed the joint second-highest number of big chances this season – behind only Barcelona. The only difference in this context is that the Catalans create a lot of chances and them missing 40 big chances doesn’t matter as much to them.

Vitor Roque, who is on loan from Barcelona, will surely have something to say in this department on Saturday, having already revealed that he would like to score against his parent club.

Barcelona’s high risk make or break approach

Flick’s insistence on playing a risky yet effective high defensive line has worked out well for Barcelona so far – generally speaking. It helped them register wins over Real Madrid and Bayern Munich but at the same time, there are some concerning underlying numbers.

They have conceded the ninth-highest xG in LaLiga and a lot of it is because of how high they operate.

Whether that approach is sustainable or not remains to be seen in the longer term but Pellegrini’s side will count on those weaknesses tomorrow.

Injury problems for both Betis and Barcelona

Johnny Cardoso, Nobel Mendy, Héctor Bellerín, Marc Roca, William Carvalho and Isco are on the sidelines for Los Verdiblancos.

For Barcelona, Ansu Fati, Andreas Christensen, Marc Bernal, Marc-André ter Stegen, Ronald Araújo will remain out. Robert Lewandowski will come back into the side after being rested in mid-week.

Prediction

Barcelona should pick up a win in this one, with the Catalan giants having not lost at the Villamarín since 2008.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

You can follow every game from LaLiga with FotMob this season — featuring deep stats coverage, xG, and player ratings. Download the free app here.

Dec

2024

Preview: Man United and Nottingham Forest both need a response at Old Trafford

Manchester United will be looking to bounce back from their defeat to Arsenal as they take on Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

By Zach Lowy

Can United Keep Up Their Impressive Home Form?

Slowly but surely, Old Trafford is becoming a fortress again for Manchester United. With the exception of a 1-1 draw vs. Chelsea, Manchester United have won each of their last six home matches. After kicking off the Rúben Amorim era with a 1-1 draw at Ipswich, United prevailed with a comeback home win vs. Bodø/Glimt in the UEFA Europa League before demolishing Everton 4-0 at the Theatre of Dreams. They were smacked with a cruel dose of reality by Arsenal on Wednesday, being undone by second-half goals from defenders Jurriën Timber and William Saliba and succumbing to a 2-0 defeat – their first loss since 27 October.

United have won 11 of their last 12 meetings vs. Nottingham Forest, but their most recent Premier League meeting in December 2023, would go the way of the Tricky Trees, with Morgan Gibbs-White restoring Forest’s lead in the 82nd minute to secure a late victory. But while United enter the match as the overwhelming favourites, they face a tall task as they take on a Nottingham Forest side that currently sits three points and six places above them.

Can Wood Deliver the Goods?

After ending a 23-year top-flight absence under Steve Cooper, Nottingham Forest narrowly avoided relegation by four points and six points in their first two campaigns back in the Premier League. Today, however, they find themselves in seventh place after winning six of their first 14 league matches. Six years after leading Wolves to a seventh-place finish and their first European qualification in four decades, Nuno Espírito Santo has Forest fans dreaming of a return to continental competition after three decades away.

Having lost three of their last four matches – conceding three goals in each of those defeats – Forest are in need of a response following, particularly after the 3-0 set-back at Manchester City in the week. If they are to pull off their first away win since 25 October, they’ll need Chris Wood to deliver. The 32-year-old New Zealand international is in the best form of his career, scoring nine of Forest’s 16 goals, including the winning penalty in their 1-0 victory against Ipswich on 30 November. Only Mohamed Salah (13) and Erling Haaland (12) have scored more goals than Wood – we’re backing him to come up clutch against United.

Amorim to Change Things Up in Attack

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. That’s usually the case, but not iif you’re Rúben Amorim – after demolishing Everton 4-0 thanks to braces from Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee as well as a brace of assists from Amad Diallo, United’s new Portuguese technician dropped all three of them for their trip to Arsenal, a decision which proved costly and resulted in a stale attacking display in North London. We’re expecting Diallo, Zirkzee, Rashford and Lisandro Martínez to return to the side as United look to get back to winning ways ahead of a busy week that will see them travel to Viktoria Plzeň in the UEFA Europa League, Manchester City in the Premier League, and Tottenham Hotspur in the EFL Cup. All signs point to this reinforced attacking firepower proving vital for United as they look to continue their impressive record vs. Forest.

Prediction

United are strong at home while Forest need a pick-me-up, so perhaps a score draw is on the cards?

(Cover image from IMAGO)

You can follow every game from the Premier League with FotMob this season — featuring deep stats coverage, xG, and player ratings. Download the free app here.

Dec

2024

Preview: Everton vs. Liverpool, the final derby at Goodison

Everton will host Liverpool on Saturday in the final Premier League Merseyside Derby to be played at Goodison Park. It’s Arne Slot’s first taste of the rivalry, while Sean Dyche will be hoping to replicate the result of last season when the Toffees ran out 2-0 winners.

By Matt Smith

Dyche has a couple of knocks to contend with

Playing just a few days ago, where Everton secured an emphatic 4-0 victory over Wolves, Dyche’s players haven’t had much time to rest and cover. The Everton boss has admitted there were a ‘couple of knocks’ from the Wolves fixture, and Michael Keane is ‘touch and go’ to return for this one.
James Garner and Tim Ireogbunam are long-term absentees who both missed the midweek win, and they are unlikely to be fit enough to face their rivals on Saturday.

The Toffees finally found the goalscoring touch

Finding the back of the net has been the major difficulty for Everton this season. The Toffees have scored on average one goal per game, despite their 4-0 hammering of Wolves in the week. Dyche’s side have created just 24 big chances this term, the lowest in the Premier League. The game against Wolves was certainly an anomaly given their form.

The Toffees went back to basics against Wolves, scoring all four goals from set-pieces. It’s a method that’s worked wonders for Dyche in the past, and the performance was more of a vintage Everton display under the former Burnley boss. Liverpool will present a different test, with Slot’s side one of the most in-form sides in Europe.

Alisson is still not ready

Slot has confirmed that Alisson Becker is still not available for the clash against Everton, meaning Caoimhín Kelleher is likely to keep his place in goal. The Liverpool goalkeeper was at fault for Newcastle’s last equaliser in the week, but he’s produced some impressive displays deputising in Alisson’s absence.

Federico Chiesa and Diogo Jota are closing in on their returns, with the former playing for the U21 side during the week.

Salah is still flying high

It’s been an almost perfect season for Liverpool, who are flying high in the Premier League and Champions League. Mohamed Salah’s contract situation rumbles on, but it’s safe to say he’s not letting it impact his performances on the pitch.

He’s the player Everton will have to attempt to keep quiet, producing a phenomenal 21 goals and assists combined already this campaign, more than any other player in the league. The supporters at Anfield have been demanding the club to give him what he wants when it comes to a contract, and Salah certainly has a strong argument considering he’s arguably looking sharper than ever.

Prediction

It’s difficult to look past a Liverpool win here, despite the added spice of it being the final Merseyside Derby at Goodison Park. The Reds are in fantastic form while the Toffees continue to struggle. We’re going for a 3-1 victory for Slot’s side.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

You can follow every game from the Premier League with FotMob this season — featuring deep stats coverage, xG, and player ratings. Download the free app here.

Dec

2024

FPL tips from the reigning champ: GW15

Get ahead of the Group Chat thanks to our new regular column from FPL expert Jonas Sand Låbakk.

By FotMob, in conversation with Jonas Sand Låbakk

Introducing our expert

Jonas is a 21 year old student who, like FotMob, hails from Norway, but unlike the frustrated Fantasy Premier League players in the office, he did something we could only dream of last season. He finished first, ahead of 11 million other managers in the 2023/24 season.

Who better then, to provide us with some expert advice each week.

*Don’t forget the FPL deadline for this round – make your transfers and sort your team out before 11:00 GMT on Saturday*

The Eye Test vs. The Stats

Alexander Isak (8.4m) was a player I mentioned a few weeks back. There were some uncertainties around his inclusion in GW14, but he ended up playing and did really well against Liverpool. Newcastle had a ton of chances and they could have scored more goals. Isak ended up with a goal and an assist, which resulted in 11 FPL points. His goal was a fantastic strike from outside the 18 year box, which only came with an xG of 0.06. Isak and Newcastle gave Liverpool a real challenge and they really impressed me. The main reason I’m still pushing Isak as a suggestion for your team is the Magpies’ upcoming fixtures: Brentford, Leicester, and Ipswich. Those three teams have conceded the second, third, and sixth highest xG this season. This should definitely mean goalscoring opportunities for Isak and I expect him to do really well. His Expected Goal Involvements (xGI) stats over the season are also good, with 0.6 xGI per 90.

Trent Alexander-Arnold (6.9m) is by far the most expensive defender in FPL and for good reason. Historically Trent has been a crucial part of the Liverpool attack with his crosses from the right hand side and ability to invert and get into good shooting positions with his great right foot. Against Newcastle Trent started on the bench after being injured in GW11 and 12 and starting against Manchester City. I wouldn’t worry about it though, as I think it’s purely game time management in the midst of a busy schedule. Trent came on, played 23 minutes, and did not disappoint. He recorded an assist after just a minute and ended his cameo with another to his name, which gives us an indication of the offensive threat he provides.

Over the season, Trent hasn’t delivered the same attacking output as you would expect from a defender priced that high, but Liverpool do have the best defence in the league and Trent gives you added attacking threat. Especially with his input from set piece. He remains a very good option if you can afford him.

Long shot

Evanilson (6.1m) averages the same xGI per 90 this season as the aforementioned Alexander Isak. Bournemouth were really impressive against Spurs on Thursday and they accumulated a whopping 3.71 xG! The Cherries could have and probably should have scored a few more goals. Their Brazilian striker has four goals and four assists so far this season, from 5.6 xG and 0.7 xA. He has also won the most penalties of any player in the division (five!). Despite those strong numbers, Evanilson is still only owned by 3.5% of FPL managers. And with Ipswich and West Ham up next, there’s two games where I expect Bournemouth to score a few more goals.

*Evanilson shot map, Premier League 2024/25*

Upcoming games to follow

Everton vs. Liverpool is the first match of the gameweek. Merseyside Derbies usually have a life of their own and it might be hard to predict what is going to happen. But at this point and with his current form, a positive points return for Mohamed Salah (13.3m) seems inevitable. Players like Alexander-Arnold and Joe Gomez will also be interesting to watch. Liverpool should win fairly comfortably, but you never know.

Sunday’s meeting between Leicester and Brighton is another interesting game this week. That’s mainly due to Brighton players being very good value in my opinion; João Pedro, Kaoru Mitoma and even their defenders. With the most interesting one being Pedro who is priced at 5.8m.

The last game I’d pick out is West Ham vs. Wolves on Monday night, two teams who have struggled quite a bit recently. I have no idea what to expect from the game, but that’s what makes it interesting! Matheus Cunha, Jørgen Strand Larsen, and Rayan Aït-Nouri from Wolves and Jarrod Bowen from West Ham are the players I will be paying extra attention to.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

Did you know that you can track live Fantasy points with FotMob? Simply select any Premier League game, swipe to the Lineup tab, and press the big ‘Fantasy’ button! Download the free app here.

Dec

2024

Premier League Preview, Matchday 15

This weekend has the potential to be a seismic one in the grand scheme of things in the Premier League. Results will have consequences to both the top and bottom of the table. Depending on what happens, managerial changes may be afoot too. That is if Storm Darragh doesn’t play havoc with the fixture list.

By Sam McGuire

So, what is there to look forward to?

The Mohamed Salah show tours at Goodison Park

Liverpool are top of the Premier League table, seven points clear of Chelsea and Arsenal following their entertaining 3-3 draw with Newcastle United on Wednesday evening. The Reds have performed well this term and the team has been fairly solid, with and without the ball. But the real difference maker for Arne Slot’s side has been Mohamed Salah.

He, again, got Liverpool out of a pickle against the Magpies. He assisted Curtis Jones for the leveller, scored the second equaliser for the Reds and then put the away side ahead. The three-time Golden Boot winner has now been involved in at least one goal in his last seven Premier League appearances. In four of those games, he’s had at least two goal involvements.

Salah leads the way for goal involvements in the Premier League (21). He’s the top scorer (13) and only Bukayo Saka (10) has more assists than the 32-year-old (eight). It isn’t quite as straightforward as saying if you stop Salah, you stop Liverpool. But you aren’t far off it. If he’s nullified, the Reds aren’t anywhere near as much of concern.

Everton aren’t having the best campaign but they did romp to a 4-0 win over Wolves on Wednesday. Backed by a home crowd and with windy conditions aiding them, they could cause Liverpool some trouble on Saturday afternoon, and with this being the last Derby scheduled at the historic Goodison, you can be sure they’ll be out to do that.

Arsenal’s bogey team

This might be a little premature given the sample size isn’t the largest, but Fulham could be Arsenal’s bogey team. Marco Silva’s side went unbeaten against the Gunners last term, picking up a 2-2 draw at the Emirates and recording a 2-1 win over the title hopefuls at Craven Cottage in December 2023.

The two teams face off at Craven Cottage on Sunday. Fulham, once again, have the chance to dent Arsenal’s title dreams. The Cottagers are having a surprisingly good campaign. They’re sixth in the Premier League and find themselves just six point off of their visitors. For added context here, they are just one point behind the Gunners when looking at Expected Points this term, highlighting how well Silva’s side are doing.

Arsenal had a bit of a rough patch a few weeks ago but Martin Ødegaard’s return has sparked a run of victories in the Premier League. Mikel Arteta’s side have won three on the bounce in the English top flight, scoring nine goals and conceding just two in the process.

If results go their way, Arsenal could finish this weekend just four points off the summit with momentum on their side. This match means a lot.

Consistency matters

An afternoon clash on Sunday sees two consistent sides face off. Sort of.

Spurs are consistently inconsistent. Chelsea are consistently consistent.

Tottenham lost to Ipswich Town before hammering Manchester City 4-0 at the Etihad. It was supposed to be a springboard for their season but they’ve since failed to win any of their three matches across all competitions. They drew with Roma and Fulham before losing to Bournemouth on Thursday evening.

The defeat against the Cherries leaves them in 10th position in the Premier League. They could finish the weekend in 13th. This was not what was supposed to happen in Ange Postecoglou’s second season in charge of Spurs. Not when the club backed him in the transfer market this summer.

Chelsea, meanwhile, are on an unbeaten run of six games in the Premier League.

The Blues have lost just twice all season – at home to reigning champions Manchester City and away at league leaders Liverpool. They’re currently second in the Premier League and have scored the most goals (31).

Things are clicking for Enzo Maresca and his side.

Jobs on the line

West Ham host fellow strugglers Wolves on Monday night in what is shaping up to not only be a six-pointer, it could also spell the end for whichever manager loses.

The Hammers won the 2024 summer transfer window but find themselves just six points outside of the relegation zone. Their 2-0 win over Newcastle was an outlier.

They drew with Everton and lost to a struggling Leicester City team last time out, though the Hammers did perform well. They have a six point gap over their visitors heading into this game. Extending it to nine potentially keeps Julen Lopetegui in a job.

Wolves have been in freefall over the past week. They have conceded eight in their last two to bring a four match unbeaten run to an end. Gary O’Neil’s men lost 4-0 to relegation battlers Everton last time out.

Wolves have conceded 36 goals in 14 Premier League matches this season, their most at this stage of a top-flight campaign since 1964-65. They have the worst defensive unit in the English top-flight but they have scored 22 goals though, the most of any team in the bottom 10. They do possess the players to cause some damage, it is just whether or not they can limit the number of goals they do concede.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

You can follow every game from the Premier League on FotMob – with in-depth stat coverage including xG, shot maps, and player ratings. Download the free app here.

Dec

2024

Premier League Team of the Week: Midweek Matchday 14

The gap at the top was reduced after Liverpool’s 3-3 draw with Newcastle United while three teams managed to separate themselves from an immediate relegation battle after positive results. The midweek round of fixtures in the Premier League did not disappoint.

By Sam McGuire

There were plenty of contenders for the FotMob Team of the Matchday, but who made the cut and why?

Goalkeeper: Mads Hermansen

Ruud Van Nistelrooy got off to a flyer as Leicester City manager. The Foxes recorded a 3-1 win over West Ham United on Tuesday but they were indebted to their goalkeeper for the victory. The 24-year-old made seven saves and faced shots with an Expected Goals on Target value of 3.08. Without him between the sticks, Van Nistelrooy’s reign at the King Power likely starts with a defeat.

Right-Back: Ashley Young

The Everton full-back rolled back the years against Wolves. The 39-year-old scored the opener for the Toffees as Sean Dyche‘s side picked up a much needed win in what was a huge six-pointer. Young completed 100% of his dribbles, won four of his seven tackles and came out on top in eight of his 13 duels at Goodison Park. He claimed a FotMob rating of 8.6 for his performance.

Centre-Back: William Saliba

Saliba bossed it against Manchester United. The Frenchman played a pivotal role in Arsenal picking up a 2-0 win over the Red Devils to cut the gap at the top to seven points. The 23-year-old scored, completed 94% of his passes, won three of his six duels and made five recoveries. He earned an 8.2 rating for what is quickly becoming the norm for the France international.

Centre-Back: Dean Huijsen

The centre-back was the match-winner for Bournemouth as they claimed a 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur. The 19-year-old earned a FotMob rating of 8.3. To go along with his goal, he won 100% of his ground duels, 100% of his aerial duels, and made 10 clearances. It was a solid showing.

Left-Back: Antonee Robinson

The Fulham full-back impressed in their 3-1 win over Brighton on Thursday evening. The 27-year-old completed the most dribbles (four), created two chances and claimed an assist. Robinson also won six of his seven duels as well as making two interceptions. Against a rampant Brighton side, the left-back looked fairly comfortable and managed to catch the eye.

Midfield: Wilfred Ndidi

Ndidi put in a monstrous performance for the Foxes against West Ham United. The 27-year-old attempted the most tackles (eight) and won the most tackles (six). He also won the most duels (14 of 18). The Nigeria international made three interceptions and recovered the ball on four occasions. He also completed 100% of his dribbles and found a teammate with 86% of his attempted passes.

Midfield: Declan Rice

Rice ran the show for the Gunners in their 2-0 win over Man Utd. The powerhouse midfielder completed 88% of his passes, he claimed an assist and carved out three chances. He won 100% of his tackles, recovered the ball eight times and won seven of his eight duels at the Emirates.

Attack: Mohamed Salah

Another FotMob Team of the Week, another FotMob Team of the Week inclusion for Mohamed Salah. The Liverpool attacker is now the outright top scorer in the Premier League with 13 goals following yet another double, this time against Newcastle. The attacker also claimed an assist to make it 21 goal involvements in the English top-flight.

Attack: Kevin De Bruyne

Back in the team and back amongst the goals. De Bruyne made his first start for Manchester City since September in their 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest. The Belgian playmaker scored and assisted as Pep Guardiola‘s side won their first match in seven. The 33-year-old created four chances for the hosts, had five shots and completed 100% of his dribbles. Maybe their title charge starts now he’s returned.

Attack: Alex Iwobi

Iwobi made it four games on the bounce with a goal involvement after twice finding the back of the net against Brighton. The versatile winger had a successful day against the Seagulls, scoring twice, creating one chance and completed three of his four dribbles in what was a 9.1 showing for Marco Silva‘s side.

Attack: Ollie Watkins

Watkins returned to haunt his former club during midweek. The 28-year-old scored and assisted against an in-form Brentford side as Aston Villa returned to winning ways. The versatile attacker claimed a 9.0 FotMob rating having created two chances, completing 89% of his passes, winning one penalty and taking six shots for Unai Emery‘s side.

(Images from IMAGO)

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Dec

2024

FotMob Profile: Liam Delap, part of a new generation of physical strikers

Physical centre forwards are back in fashion. Erling Haaland might be to blame for that as Manchester City’s record-breaking battering ram of a number nine. Everyone wants a striker like the Norwegian and Ipswich Town, of all teams, might have one. Indeed, Liam Delap is The Tractor Boys’ very own Haaland-lite.

By Graham Ruthven

Delap has six goals in 14 Premier League appearances this season following a summer transfer to Portman Road. The 21-year-old has given Ipswich the cutting edge they require to stand any chance of avoiding relegation back to the Championship with Delap now widely considered the best young English striker in his age group.

Having come through the academy system at Manchester City, Delap has the technical ability to hold his own in a Kieran McKenna team. His first touch is good. He likes to dribble. He can link up with teammates. The youngster’s awareness of space is also as sharp as you would expect for someone who was coached by Pep Guardiola.

For all that Delap is comfortable with the ball at his feet, though, it’s his physical attributes that make him truly special. His movement is exceptional. He knows know to take up good scoring positions inside the box and has the directness to terrify opposition defenders. At full speed, he is a force of nature. That’s where the Haaland comparison comes from.

*Delap shot map, Premier League 2024/25*

It could be argued Delap is stronger than Haaland in some areas. The Ipswich striker has won possession in the final third eight times this season compared to Haaland’s four. McKenna wants his team to press high up the pitch and Delap is intelligent in his closing down. He sets the tone for The Tractor Boys from the front.

Delap’s dribbling numbers also outweigh Haaland’s. While the Manchester City forward has registered six successful dribbles in the Premier League this season, Delap has 13 to his name. Haaland could never be described as immobile, but Delap has the additional skill of being able to carry the ball.

*Delap possession stats, Premier League 2024/25*

“I won’t say he’s unique because there are a few more in the Premier League at the moment as well, physical centre forwards, but maybe over the last five or six years in the Premier League they haven’t been falling off the trees,” said McKenna about Delap. “I think you can tell what his ceiling might be. I think it’s clear. I think he can play at the highest levels of the game, there’s no doubt about that.”

Despite only joining Ipswich from Manchester City in July, speculation is swirling around Delap’s next move. Chelsea and Manchester United are believed to be admirers of the young striker, although any transfer away from Portman Road could be impacted by City’s reportedly having a buyback option on the 21-year-old. He could yet end up back at the Etihad Stadium.

Some believed Delap had made the jump up to the Premier League too early. While the youngster caught the eye on loan at Hull City last season, his tally of eight goals in the Championship hardly hinted at a striker ready to take the English top flight by storm even if injury hindered him. Having reached another level this term, though, it’s understandable that the Premier League’s biggest clubs believe he could make another quick jump up.

*Delap shooting stats, Premier League 2024/25*

For now, though, Delap must focus on further developing his game and scoring the goals to keep Ipswich Town in the Premier League. After a slow start to the season, McKenna’s team are growing with almost every match they play and Delap has been a big part of that improvement, scoring the winner in Ipswich’s only league win of the campaign so far away to Tottenham Hotspur.

With Thomas Tuchel set to take over as England manager in the new year, it’s possible Delap could soon break into the national team. Harry Kane remains The Three Lions’ first-choice centre forward, but at 31 years old is increasingly injury prone. Tuchel will need a Plan B to cover the threat of Kane missing matches at the 2026 World Cup.

Of course, the likes of Dominic Solanke and Ollie Watkins have already been part of the England team and continue to operate at a high level in the Premier League. Delap, however, might have a higher ceiling than either of them. If the Ipswich frontman is going to be a big part of England’s future, it makes sense to integrate him as quickly as possible.

Kane’s all-round game makes him unique and Delap might never have the playmaking ability or passing range of the Bayern Munich striker who likes to drop deep, but he could be England’s Haaland imitation just as he is evoking the spirit of the Norwegian for Ipswich Town in the Premier League this season.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

You can follow every game from the Premier League on FotMob – with in-depth stat coverage including xG, shot maps, and player ratings. Download the free app here.