The Pulse of Football

May

2025

Premier League Preview: Matchday 35 and the race for Europe

We know that Liverpool have won the Premier League. We know who is going to be playing Championship football next season. What we don’t know, however, is who will be playing in the Champions League for the 2025/26 campaign. The race for a top four (five) place is heating up. Just five points separate seventh placed Aston Villa and third place Newcastle United.

By Sam McGuire

This weekend could well shape the final outcome. With that in mind, here’s your Premier League preview for Matchday 35.

Friday Night Football

The Etihad plays host to the two most in-form teams in the Premier League right now. Only Wolves (15) have taken more points than Manchester City (13) across the last five matches in the English top-flight.

In fact, Vítor Pereira’s side have won six on the bounce and are unbeaten since February. They’re now 13th in the table, 20 points clear of the drop zone and ahead of the likes of Manchester United, Everton and Spurs. It’s been some turnaround for Wolves.

During this remarkable run of form, Wolves have scored 11 goals and conceded on just three occasions. City have identical numbers to this. The only blip for Pep Guardiola and his side during this period was that 0-0 draw with neighbours Manchester United.

If the former champions win on Friday night, they, momentarily at least, move into third position. They’d also be just three points behind Arsenal, albeit having played a game more. Considering the narrative surrounding the FA Cup finalists is that they’ve had a poor campaign, there’s still a chance, with a strong end to the season, that they finish as runners-up.

For Wolves, it is an opportunity to see how their team, filled with confidence, fares against, on their day, one of the best teams in world football.

Can Aston Villa bounce back?

There’s a lot at stake for Villa. They want to be playing Champions League football again next term. They need to be playing it if they’re to stand a chance of retaining the services of their best players.

Ollie Watkins is wanted by Arsenal, Liverpool have been keeping tabs on Morgan Rogers and there’s Saudi interest in Emi Martínez. Without the riches of the Champions League, Villa could be forced into sales.

They host Fulham in the early kick-off on Saturday looking to get back to winning ways after back-to-back losses. Man City claimed a 2-1 win over Unai Emery’s side in their last Premier League outing while Crystal Palace ran riot against Villa in the FA Cup semi-final in a 3-0 win.

Only Man City and Wolves have taken more points than Villa (12) in their last five Premier League matches. They should, in theory, have the advantage heading into this game against Marco Silva’s team.

The Cottagers have two wins and three losses during this period, suffering defeats to Arsenal, Chelsea and Bournemouth. They also needed a stoppage-time winner to beat already relegated Southampton. They did, however, beat Liverpool, showing how much of a threat they can be on their day. Villa will need to be wary.

A loss here for the hosts all but confirms Villa Park won’t be hosting Champions League football next term. A win would be monumental in their hopes, putting a lot of pressure on Chelsea.

Pressure on Newcastle United

For a while, Newcastle were the hunters. They had ground to make up in the race for a top four finish and it was a case of winning their games and seeing what happened. Now, though, they’re the hunted. They won their matches, a lot of them, and managed to leapfrog a host of teams into third position.

The Carabao Cup winners are in complete control of their destiny. They know that four wins guarantees Champions League football. It is as simple as that. No matter what everybody else does, max points for Eddie Howe’s side in these next four ensures St James’ Park will be playing host to Europe’s elite club competition.

They bounced back from the 4-1 hammering against Aston Villa to beat Ipswich Town last time out. They travel to the Amex on Sunday afternoon to take on an inconsistent Brighton team.

The Seagulls are in ninth position despite having won just one of their last five. They’ve taken four points from a possible 15 but, somehow, remain in the top half of the table.

It’ll be an interesting match-up in many ways. Newcastle have been scoring freely as of late, with 16 goals in their last five. Brighton have been conceding at an alarming rate – 13 in their last five.

It should, if form is anything to go by, be a straightforward win for the Magpies. But the Seagulls have the quality to cause serious problems.

Advantage Chelsea?

Chelsea host the champions on Sunday in a game that is now a lot easier for them.

For a while, this game was believed to be the one Liverpool could clinch the title. However, Arsenal’s draw with Crystal Palace allowed the Reds to confirm top spot against Spurs last weekend.

Arne Slot’s side won’t be in holiday mode just yet but there’s no incentive for them to go all out for a win now. They’ll want to end the campaign on a high but a draw, for example, isn’t the end of the world. The Dutch coach might even rotate to give a few squad players the opportunity in the final few weeks.

Chelsea need all of the marginal gains they can get if they’re to claim a Champions League spot. Enzo Maresca’s men are struggling for goals, with six in their last five. Cole Palmer is without a goal in the league since January while Nicolas Jackson, the team’s second highest top scorer, has one league goal in 2025.

If there was ever a time to play Liverpool, it is now, one week after winning the title. If Chelsea don’t take advantage, they may find themselves playing Europa League football next term.

(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.

May

2025

FPL tips from the reigning champ: GW35

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

By Graham Ruthven, in conversation with Jonas Sand Låbakk

Introducing our expert

Jonas is a 21 year old student who, like FotMob, hails from Norway. He was Fantasy Premier League champion for the 2023/24 season, finishing ahead of 11 million other managers. So who better to provide expert advice?

Read his expert advice every week.

*Don’t forget the early FPL deadline for this round – make your transfers and get your team sorted before 6.30pm BST on Friday 2 May*

The Eye Test vs. The Stats

This has been Yoane Wissa’s (6.6m) best-ever season in the Premier League.

Indeed, the Brentford striker has registered 17 goals and three assists in the 30 games he has started this season, making him the Bees’ second-top scorer behind only Bryan Mbeumo.

Wissa is a constant threat. His Expected Goal Involvements (xGI) of 0.61 per 90 minutes is impressive for a player at such a cheap price point. The DR Congo international is also a good bet to receive safe minutes having played 90 minutes in each of his last 15 league games.

Brentford are favourites to beat a poor Manchester United team this weekend, making Wissa a good option. Additionally, the Bees have a run of favourable fixtures until the end of the season with games against Ipswich, Fulham and Wolves to come.

Omar Marmoush (7.6m) was a disappointment in double GW33, especially for those FPL managers who gave him the captain’s armband.

The Egyptian attacker played on the left wing against Aston Villa and failed to deliver the points haul against Nottingham Forest many had predicted, although an assist in the latter match was at least something.

*Marmoush player traits – comparison against forwards in Europe’s top five leagues*

Since joining Manchester City from Eintracht Frankfurt in January, Marmoush has scored seven goals and registered one assist in 17 games (all comps). Even as City have struggled for consistent form, he has been a threat for a team with the third highest Expected Goals (xG) of any team in the league.

Manchester City have Wolves at home in GW35. This will be an opportunity for Marmoush to notch with Wolves saddled with the sixth-worst xG record of any Premier League side this season.

Pep Guardiola’s team will also face Southampton in GW36. This could be a good time to sign Marmoush.

Long shot

Jarrod Bowen (7.6m) has flown under the radar this season what with there being so many great midfield options in FPL – see Mbeumo, Justin Kluivert, Morgan Rogers, Jacob Murphy and more.

However, the West Ham winger has enjoyed an excellent campaign. His nine goals and 10 assists makes him the sixth-highest scoring midfielder in FPL despite his ownership standing at only 9.1%.

West Ham have suffered a poor season and the appointment of Graham Potter has failed to elevate the team in the way they would have hoped. Nonetheless, Bowen is trustworthy as a midfield option.

The Hammers face Tottenham Hotspur in GW35 which could be a good game for Potter’s side from an attacking point of view. They also have favourable fixtures against Manchester United and Ipswich before the end of the season.

Upcoming games to follow

There are a selection of fixtures worth monitoring in GW35 as the 2024/25 Premier League campaign gets closer to its conclusion. With the first match of the gameweek at 8pm on Friday, remember to get your transfers done in time!

That early game is probably the most exciting from a FPL perspective with Manchester City hosting Wolves. City have a handful of players to consider, but my favourites are Marmoush, Joško Gvardiol (6.3m) and Kevin De Bruyne (9.3m).

Brentford’s home match against Manchester United is another match on my radar.

The Bees are favourites due to their record of finding the back of the net at home. Avoid any Brentford defenders, but attackers like Wissa and Mbeumo (8.1m) are worth picking. Kevin Schade (5.1m) could also be worth a punt.

Finally, Chelsea’s home match against Liverpool is worth monitoring.

With Liverpool sealing the Premier League title in GW34, it’s difficult to know what to expect from the champions. Are Arne Slot and his players already on the beach with nothing left to play for?

Mohamed Salah (13.8m) is owned by most active FPL managers and so players like Trent Alexander-Arnold (7.2m) and Luis Díaz (7.6m) could be good picks. Cole Palmer (10.6m) could be the best option from Chelsea despite his goal-less of 13 league games.

(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.

May

2025

Premier League Team of the Week: Matchday 34

The FotMob Team of the Week for Matchday 34 is one of the most varied we’ve seen. For starters, there’s no Mohamed Salah. The Liverpool man has been a mainstay in the team this season after his record-breaking campaign and he did score as the Reds secured the title against Spurs. He misses out though. So, who made the cut and why?

By Sam McGuire

Goalkeeper: Robert Sánchez

Sánchez played his part in Chelsea’s important 1-0 win over Everton. The former Brighton shot-stopper made three saves for the Blues against the Toffees, but these were three key saves. He faced efforts with an Expected Goals on Target total of 0.99, proving himself to be instrumental in Enzo Maresca’s side keeping a clean sheet, while also creating a chance. All in all, a very solid showing.

Right-Back: Kieran Trippier

Trippier has capitalised on Lewis Hall’s injury. He returned to the starting XI and put in a number of eye-catching performances as the Magpies made their way up the Premier League table. He claimed two assists in the 3-0 win over Ipswich Town, also completing the most passes (113), while also winning five of his eight duels.

Centre-Back: Nathan Collins

Collins notched an assist for Brentford in their win over Champions League chasing Nottingham Forest. The 24-year-old was fairly dominant against Nuno Espírito Santo’s side, completing 81% of his passes, winning 100% of his tackles, 100% of his ground duels and 78% of his aerial battles. The Republic of Ireland international bossed it for the Bees.

Centre-Back: Dan Burn

Burn scored in the 3-0 win over the Tractor Boys to cap off a solid display. The 32-year-old completed 93% of his passes at St James’ Park, won 100% of his tackles and won five out of six aerial duels on the day. He claimed a FotMob rating of 8.5 for his exploits, a score that only Trippier could better for the Magpies.

Left-Back: Ryan Sessegnon

Sessegnon was the match-winner for Fulham against Southampton. He scored in stoppage time to complete the turnaround for Marco Silva’s men. The left-back was in fine form too, taking three shots and creating four chances in the 2-1 win for the Cottagers. He also attempted seven tackles and was involved in a remarkable 16 ground duels. The versatile full-back was invaluable at both ends of the pitch.

Midfield: Sandro Tonali

The Italy international was a key creator for the Magpies in the win over Ipswich Town. He created the most chances in the game (seven) and finished with a pass success rate of 93%. He also attempted four dribbles and was accurate with five of his eight long passes. Tonali made things happen for Eddie Howe’s side and that’s why he claimed an 8.5 rating on the day.

Midfield: Alexis Mac Allister

The World Cup winner was in inspired form for the Reds in their 5-1 win over Tottenham. Mac Allister scored Liverpool’s second, a superb left-footed strike from the edge of the box, on his way to a FotMob rating of 8.6. He also made the most tackles (four) and won the most duels (eight) while carving out two chances and recovering the ball on seven occasions. It was a Mac Allister masterclass that solidified his status as a cult hero at Anfield.

*Shot map for Mac Allister’s goal vs. Spurs*

Attack: Bernardo Silva

Silva was amongst the goals for Manchester City in their important 2-1 win over Aston VIlla. The versatile Portugal international opened the scoring for the outgoing champions and also created two chances at the Etihad. He won 100% of his tackles, 100% of his aerial duels and recovered the ball on five occasions, proving, once again, his value to City with and without the ball.

Attack: Dominik Szoboszlai

Szoboszlai loves playing against Tottenham Hotspur. The Hungary skipper scored and assisted in Liverpool’s 6-3 win over Spurs in December and he added two assists to his season tally last Sunday as the Reds claimed the title. He created an astonishing eight chances at Anfield on his way to an 8.8 FotMob rating.

Attack: Matheus Cunha

Cunha was, once again, the main man for Wolves in their 3-0 win over Leicester City. The in-demand Brazil international added to his tally of goals and also chipped in with two assists. The performance earned him a FotMob rating of 9.4. He also created the most chances (five) and was the most fouled player (six). The 25-year-old completed two of his three dribbles, showcasing his all-round ability to create space and take advantage of it.

Attack: Jarrod Bowen

Bowen didn’t deserve to be on the losing side. The West Ham attacker finished the game against Brighton with two assists having created the most chances in the match (four). He completed 91% of his passes, 100% of his long passes and found a teammate with two of his five crosses. He was a creative menace for the Hammers and caused the Seagulls all kinds of problems.

(Images from IMAGO)

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

May

2025

As Bayern close in on the Bundesliga title it’s time to access Vincent Kompany’s first season

Vincent Kompany has led Bayern Munich back to the top of Germany football, but how should the Belgian’s first season at the club be judged?

By Graham Ruthven

12 months ago, almost to the day, Burnley were officially relegated from the Premier League. Vincent Kompany’s experience this month will be dramatically different with Bayern Munich just one result away from the Bundesliga title. From Burnley to Bavaria, the Belgian has been on quite the journey.

After a season in which Bayer Leverkusen became German champions for the first time, Kompany’s task was clear. Restoring the established order at the top of the Bundesliga was the minimum requirement and Bayern Munich have done this under the guidance of a manager who is still learning on the job.

Kompany wasn’t Bayern’s first choice. They wanted Xabi Alonso before the former midfielder rejected a return to his old club in favour of staying at Leverkusen. Julian Nagelsmann was next on the list. He too decided against going back to the Allianz Arena, signing a new contract to remain as Germany manager.

Ralf Rangnick was reportedly close to accepting an offer, but made a U-turn. Oliver Glasner was another name strongly linked with the Bayern Munich position vacated by Thomas Tuchel at the end of last season. Kompany was subsequently handed the job when few believed he was truly ready for it.

Quickly, though, the 39-year-old started to remould Bayern in his own image. Last season, Leverkusen had the highest average possession share per 90 minutes of any Bundesliga team. Kompany corrected that, prioritising control of the ball.

*Bayern top the possession charts in the Bundesliga*

Bayern Munich haven’t just been the strongest possession team in the Bundesliga this season, but in the Champions League too. Indeed, their average possession share of 65% is the highest of any team to have played in the competition this term.

Some players have thrived. Michael Olise has enjoyed an excellent first season at the Allianz Arena, registering 28 goal contributions in all competitions. The France international likes to have a lot of touches of the ball and Kompany’s approach gives him this.

Jamal Musiala is another attacker who has found his best form under Kompany, giving Bayern Munich some much-needed coherence in the final third. He is possibly the player who best embodies Kompany’s coaching principles such is his ability on the ball in all areas of the attack.

And yet Harry Kane is one attacker who might have been limited by Kompany’s philosophy even if the England captain’s numbers remain typically high – 36 goals in all competitions.

There has been a lot of discussion around Kane’s role for Bayern Munich in Germany this season with many criticising the 31-year-old for his all-round game. With Kompany so keen for his midfielders and wide attackers to push into the opposition half with the ball, Kane is frequently isolated as the focal point.

Bayern’s biggest problems this season, however, have occurred at the back where the Bavarians still lack the defensive foundation to be considered among the very best teams at continental level.

This was highlighted in the Champions League quarter-finals when Inter’s rapid counter-attacks exposed the defensive frailties in Kompany’s set-up. The first leg at the Allianz Arena was especially brutal as the Italian visitors moved from back to front with ease.

Injuries were a factor in Bayern’s quarter-final exit from the Champions League. Indeed, the Bavarians surely would have stood a better chance had they not been without Manuel Neuer, Alphonso Davies, Dayot Upamecano and Musiala. They had to play Inter with one arm tied behind their back.

Nonetheless, Kompany’s decision to place Bayern Munich’s defence on the halfway line gave Inter so much space to burst into. A slightly more pragmatic defensive approach could have made up for some of the individual deficiencies on display.

It’s doubtful Kim Min-jae and Upamecano will ever have the recovery instincts, and speed, to lock the back door for Bayern as long as Kompany insists on such a bold style of play. This is why many believe the club will move for a new centre back this summer. Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen as been linked, as has Jonathan Tah.

Central midfield is another area of need. While Aleksandar Pavlović made himself Bayern’s first-choice anchor in the middle of the pitch this season, Kompany still lack a true two-way operator in this area.

Martin Zubimendi would certainly fit the bill, but Bayern Munich could lose out in the pursuit of the Real Sociedad midfielder who also on the radar of several Premier League clubs including Arsenal and Liverpool.

Even with a Bundesliga title in his first season as Bayern boss, Kompany is still proving himself. Expectation is so high at the Allianz Arena that further progress will be expected after the summer. Kompany’s biggest title as a manager to date must be the first of many in Bavaria.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

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

May

2025

Back at Basel and loving life, Xherdan Shaqiri

Basel MAY or MAY NOT win their first Swiss Super League title since 2016-17 on Sunday and no-one will have had a bigger hand in making that happen than Xherdan Shaqiri. Back where it all began, the little fella is in the form of his life.

By Alex Roberts

It’s all just a matter of time really, lifting that giant, golden trophy is just a formality for Basel at this point. Sitting at the summit, six points ahead of second-placed Servette, who they play next, the stage is set.

In the previous season, the Swiss giants had just endured one of their worst seasons in living memory, finishing in eighth as Young Boys won their fourth title in five years.

*All eyes on Saturday’s virtual title decider*

After an underwhelming two and a half seasons in the MLS with Chicago Fire, Shaqiri answered the call and put pen to paper on a three-year deal with his boyhood club, returning 13 years after he left to join Bayern Munich all the way back in 2012.

Before signing with Basel this season, he had been at risk of becoming one of those ‘streets won’t forget’ players millennials on Twitter love to go on about, never quite living up to his potential despite playing for some of the biggest clubs in the world. Remember how good Michu was!?

There is still an argument to be made. Ahead of 2024-25, the winger turned playmaker had never broken double digits in terms of goals or assists, with his most prolific season been back in 2017-18 in which he scored eight goals and provided seven assists while at Stoke City.

He’s completely blown that out of the water this time around. At the time of writing this hopefully enjoyable piece, Shaqiri has bagged 16 goals and provided 17 assists in his 33 games across all competitions.

In the league alone, he has contributed to 52% of Basel’s goals, an impressive feat, especially given that his side have been by far the most potent attacking side in Switzerland, scoring 72 goals with a goal difference of +40, 31 more than their nearest challengers, Servette.

It took him a little while to get going, his first four games were, in all honesty, pretty poor. It was clear Shaqiri wasn’t fit enough, all that deep-dish pizza back in the windy city may have caught up with him. He needed to get up to scratch, and quick.

On October 6^th, Basel hosted Super League holders Young Boys. It was too early to be a title decider, but the winner would receive a significant boost in the race regardless. Shaqiri stepped up to the plate and shone, providing the assist for Adrian Leon Barišić’s 52^nd minute winner with a lovely in-swinging free-kick.

He hasn’t looked back since. Playing in the number ten role rather than on the wing and given complete creative freedom by manager Fabio Celestini, all parties are reaping the benefits of Shaqiri’s innate talent.

At 33 years of age, geriatric in footballing terms, Celestini has seemingly come to terms with the fact that Shaqiri is unlikely to track-back and make a last-ditch tackle to prevent an opposition goal.

*Shaqiri’s shot map in the Swiss Super League, including an Olimpico goal*

Instead, he has complete faith in his ability to be an incredibly potent attacking threat. His best game so far this season was probably the 6-1 away win over Winterthur, in which he scored two goals and provided three assists, but it wasn’t his most important. That was the 3-1 win over Servette.

Much like the win over Young Boys, it was still a little too early to consider it a title decider, considering it was played in November and all. Shaqiri opened the scoring in the 40^th minute, curling in the freekick he had won just two minutes before.

Fifteen minutes later Timothe Cognat levelled things up with a close-range effort and the two sides looked set to share the points. Finally, after a lengthy VAR intervention, Basel were given the chance to take the lead from the penalty spot in the 91^st minute.

Shaqiri’s initial shot was saved by Servette ‘keeper Jeremy Frick, but all he could do was parry it directly back into his path, and Basel once again took the lead. About a minute later, he turned Theo Magnin inside out before securing his hattrick and all three points with a fairly timid effort that was just beyond Frick’s reach.

*Shaqiri’s passing stats in the Swiss Super League, including 17 assists*

Now, the reverse fixture is fast approaching, and Shaqiri will doubtless be wanting to put in an equally monumental performance to secure the league title for Basel and their young squad.

Shaqiri is a new man back at Basel. He’s led by example, becoming a beacon for those who are coming through the club’s academy, as well as the ones who are already in the first team, just like he did all those years ago.

Players like Bénie Traoré, Anton Kade, and Bradley Fink can learn a lot from arguably the best player Basel have ever produced, the man who has been there, done that, and picked up several t-shirts along the way.

With that been said, the diminutive attacker isn’t done just yet, he still has plenty to show, although he doesn’t have to prove himself to anyone, not anymore. This season has proven one thing, Shaqiri is, and always was, a star.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

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

May

2025

Ups, downs and title-deciders – a survival guide to the final day in the EFL

Match day forty-six. We’ve made it. Whether you’re dipping your toe in for the first time, or you’ve been swimming lengths since August, you’re all welcome at our EFL final day pool party. In glorious Saturday sunshine this will be English football at its finest. So, get your flip flops on, watch your step, we’ll have a walkthrough before cannonballing into the deep end come kick off.

By Sanny Rudravajhala

Championship: It’s Leeds or Burnley’s trophy but who is going down?

Win at the all-but-relegated Plymouth Argyle and Leeds will be crowned champions on Saturday lunchtime. Burnley are level with them on points and amazingly, both can finish by reaching triple figure but with a goal difference 13 better than Burnley, it is in Leeds’ hands. They just need to match Burnley’s result against Millwall, but any slip up and Scott Parker’s side will be lifting the trophy instead.

Leeds are unbeaten in nine and in brushing aside Bristol City 4-0 on Monday night, made it five victories in a row ahead of facing Argyle. I’ll be working from Burnley’s Turf Moor on Saturday but it’s all set up for Leeds and I can’t see them falling at this final hurdle.

With the play-offs, we are looking at five clubs fighting for two spots. Sheffield United and Sunderland are already there but it’s been unrelenting. Bristol City and Coventry City are both wobbling with successive defeats and that has opened the door to the others. Millwall lead the charge and have popped up from nowhere. From the last 10 games, they’re the form side after Burnley and Leeds but now having to go to Burnley on the final day, with their title challenge and 32 game unbeaten run, this is the last game Millwall needed.

Trying to get through that door too are Blackburn Rovers and Middlesbrough. It’s ridiculous really! When Boro beat Rovers 2-0 at the start of April, the mood at Ewood Park was mutinous. But a draw and then four victories on the bounce mean Blackburn are still in the hunt but they will have a tough task playing away at Sheffield United.

And here is where it gets interesting! Middlesbrough trail by two points but a goal difference of +10 gives them the edge and, would you believe it, they go to Coventry City in a game that essentially becomes a play-off for the play-offs!

Prediction: I’ve given it the big sell… but I think it will stay as it is! Coventry’s fans are superb on the big occasion, and I’ll think they’ll roar them home. Bristol City will join them in dreaming of the Premier League, especially when we see who they’re playing.

Relegation hot take: Preston to go down

Results have played out exactly as I thought they would since my ‘brave’ prediction last week. North End haven’t been in the relegation zone since September but their wretched run continued last Saturday. In giving Plymouth Argyle just their second away win all season, they made it a fourth successive defeat. Their last victory was seven games ago and they have two since January. Losing goalkeeper Freddie Woodman to an ankle injury he picked up in the gym in March left them exposed and I can’t see them picking up points at Bristol City.

Cardiff are already relegated and Argle’s shambolic goal difference means they’ll be joining them in League One, despite a magnificent overall turnaround under Miron Muslić. Argyle will bounce back. Cardiff are in a tailspin.

The final spot is between Hull, Luton, Preston, Derby and Stoke. Derby’s brilliant back-to-back victories mean safety is in their hands. Pride Park will be rocking, and I think they’ll get the three points to rubber stamp survival, with Stoke glad they reached 50 points when they did. Their 6-0 hammering by Leeds was followed up by falling at home to Sheffield United. Mark Robins has a lot of remedial work to do over the summer.

Having had such a strange season, where performances have often not reflected their results, Luton finally climbed out of the relegation places with a chaotic 90th minute winner over Coventry City. They have everything to play for at The Hawthorns when they face a managerless West Brom side who have let their season peter out. I can see Matt Bloomfield’s side heading back down the M6 with a win and raucous celebrations when they get back to Bedfordshire.

*Thelo Assgaard’s last five performances have helped Luton save themselves*

Hull City occupy the final relegation place and their home defeat to Derby has left them in the mire. Thankfully for Ruben Selles, they go to a Portsmouth side that will be in a party mood after John Mousinho masterminded their survival with several games to spare. Even struggling Hull should be able to get a point at a relaxed Fratton Park, and it’s for these reasons that, unfortunately, I’m sticking with my Preston prediction.

League One – Birmingham’s record haul, Reading defying the odds and cheers to Bowyer’s Burton

Champions Birmingham have already secured a record EFL points haul thanks to their midweek win at Blackpool. They can make it 111 points as they lift the title at relegated Cambridge.

Wrexham have secured second and Stockport, Wycombe and Charlton are in the play-offs. But, will it be Leyton Orient or Reading joining them? Orient’s superior goal difference edges out Reading ahead of their trip to Huddersfield.

Reading’s financial crisis continues to see them risking EFL expulsion, which makes their efforts one of the stories of the season. I think they’ll get victory over Barnsley but unfortunately for them, Huddersfield are well and truly on the beach. They were insipid as I saw them fall to Cambridge last month and I think Richie Wellens’ Orient will have no problems despatching Huddersfield and securing that final play-off spot.

At the other end, Shrewsbury, Cambridge, Bristol Rovers, and Crawley have already been relegated.

Crawley’s late surge was too little too late with the four relegated clubs having miserable campaigns. But they can all feel somewhat aggrieved at just how brilliant Burton have been under Gary Bowyer. Bottom in mid-January and eleven points from safety, their 1-1 draw with Wigan confirmed safety with a game to spare. For the Brewers, Bowyer is the toast of the town.

League Two – Doncaster or Port Vale for the title, promotion madness and Carlisle’s calamity

Last Saturday was fantastic. I was at Doncaster reporting on the radio on their epic promotion winning match with Bradford City. With 38 goals between them, their front four have fired them up the charts but it was 39-year-old Billy Sharp, in his fourth spell with the club, who bagged what would be the winner. They lead Port Vale in the race for the title by a single point. The Valiants had their own promotion party last weekend too though, thanks to a battling 2-0 victory at Wimbledon.

Now it’s time to get your calculators out! Doncaster go to Notts County, who still have an outside chance of automatic promotion, whilst Vale host Gillingham, who have nothing to play for. Port Vale trail by a point, so they need to better Doncaster’s result. If Vale draw and Doncaster lose by two goals, then they’ll have the same points and goal difference. Next to settle it is goals scored, and that’s where that Donny front four of Molyneux, Clifton, Gibson and Street give them the edge. Vale have 65 goals this campaign but Doncaster are six better on 71.

*Donny’s Luke Molyneux has 28 goal contributions this season*

Three go up in League Two and this is where it gets even messier! Walsall may have led the table by 12 points but their drop off once loanee Nathan Lowe returned to Stoke City in January has meant promotion is now out of their hands. Bradford will be promoted with a win or a draw, if 13-winless Walsall fail to get three points at Crewe. I can’t see Bradford losing at home to Fleetwood but even then, they can still go up if Walsall lose and Notts County can’t beat Doncaster!

The final two play-off places are between Wimbledon, Salford, Grimsby, Chesterfield and Colchester. With Grimsby playing Wimbledon, it means one of them will definitely make the play-offs.

This is all too close to call. Salford are in the box seat, and it depends on what performance Carlisle put in, in what will be their final EFL appearance after joining Morecambe in being relegated out of the league.

Morecambe have been beleaguered on and off the pitch. Carlisle’s owners say lessons will be learned over a calamitous campaign that’s seen them suffer back-to-back relegations. Allowing Mike Williamson to bring in 11 players in the January transfer window, only to sack him almost immediately afterwards was one such aberration. I hope Mark Hughes stays on and gives their suffering supporters something to cheer this time next year.

And there you have it. I’ve tried to predict the unpredictable across three divisions and could well be completely out of my depth but, at least, you’re now ready to jump in!

(Cover image from IMAGO)

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May

2025

Nico Williams is the key to Athletic Club’s Europa League dream

Nico Williams has peaked at the right time to drive Athletic Club towards Europa League glory at the Basque club’s own stadium.

By Graham Ruthven

Every match Athletic Club play at home in the Europa League this season is a dress rehearsal. That’s what the Basque club hope they are, anyway, what with the competition’s final taking place at San Mamés. If all goes to plan, Ernesto Valverde’s team will have one more home game at the end of May.

The quarter-final win over Rangers was Athletic’s most momentous European night so far this season. Having got through a first leg with 10 men, the Glasgow outfit were stubborn opponents. Athletic had to dig deep to make it through, but their players came up with enough quality, Nico Williams more than anyone else.

Williams scored the second goal of the 2-0 win over Rangers, ghosting in at the back post to head home a deep cross 10 minutes from the end. It was at this moment that Athletic Club knew they were through to the final four and that their most eye-catching difference-maker was back to his best.

This season has been a struggle for Williams. Last summer was a breakout moment for the winger who was a key player for Spain as they won Euro 2024. This led to intense speculation about a big money transfer to Barcelona which failed to materialise when the cash-strapped Catalans couldn’t find the money.

While Williams registered 16 goal contributions in LaLiga for Athletic Club last season, he has only notched 10 this term. The 22-year-old has struggled for consistent form with blaming the transfer speculation for distracting him. To make matters worse, Williams’ Spain counterpart Lamine Yamal is getting better and better at club level while Raphinha – the player Williams was meant to replace at Barca – is thriving.

*Williams season summary – last two campaigns*

Now, though, Williams is once again producing the goods when it matters most. He has found the back of the net in each of his last two starting appearances, also scoring twice in Athletic Club’s Europa League round of 16 victory over Roma. Williams once more looks like the player that lit up Euro 2024 last summer.

Manchester United have plenty to be wary of as they prepare to face Athletic Club on Thursday night. Ruben Amorim’s team are relying on the Europa League to save their season, but there’s not much to suggest they will get past an Athletic outfit that has momentum on their side and an attacker in the form of Williams.

Lyon came within a few minutes of knocking United out of this season’s Europa League, but Athletic Club will pose an even greater threat. This is a team sitting comfortably in LaLiga’s top four and a team that has won eight of their 12 Europa League matches. Nobody earned more points than Athletic (19) in the League Phase.

United’s chances of spoiling Athletic’s party by making the final at San Mamés have been improved by the news that Oihan Sancet will miss the first leg of the semi-final encounter and is an injury doubt for the second leg. Sancet has registered 17 goals this season and is considered one of the best attacking midfielders in Spanish football right now.

Nonetheless, Athletic will carry enough threat through Williams and his brother Iñaki Williams who are expected to start on either side of the forward line. Manchester United have been vulnerable in the space between the wide centre backs and the wing backs. This is an area Athletic Club will almost certainly target.

By most measures, Iñaki is having a better season than Nico. The older of the two brothers has scored more goals. He has also created more Big Chances and has a higher Expected Assists (xA) over the course of the campaign. Nico, however, is Athletic’s most prolific dribbler by some distance and gives them a different dimension.

*Nico Williams sits fourth for successful dribbles per 90 in LaLiga this season*

That Williams only came off the bench for last week’s match against Las Palmas said something about how important Valverde considers the winger to Athletic’s chances of winning the Europa League. Without Williams, the Basque side might not have the attacking dynamism to make the final and win the whole thing.

Europa League glory could be the perfect way for Williams to sign off as an Athletic Club player. Barcelona’s interest might have cooled due to the incredible, and unexpected, form of Raphinha, but Arsenal have been linked with the Spanish international. Many clubs will be tempted to activate the €60m release clause in Williams’ contract.

Athletic Club supporters believe winning the Europa League this season is their destiny. So does José Mourinho who mischievously implied UEFA is favouring the Basques to ensure they play in their own final. Athletic, however, have to earn that destiny and Williams is working hard in every dress rehearsal to put his team on the big stage.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

You can follow every game from the Europa League with FotMob this season — featuring deep stats coverage, xG, player ratings, and a new super-intuitive knockout stage bracket. Download the free app here.

May

2025

Preview: Chelsea are in Stockholm for Conference League semi against Djurgarden

We’ve reached the business end of the Europa Conference League campaign, and, as everyone predicted, Chelsea are right there. This time, Enzo Maresca’s side make the trip to Sweden to face Djurgården.

By Alex Roberts

The Swedish side have somewhat overachieved on the continent but that doesn’t mean they haven’t earned the right to be where they are. Wins against more established sides such as Panathinaikos, Legia Warsaw, and Rapid Wien in the quarters have made them a dark horse.

Chelsea are a different beast all together, however. There is roughly £1.3 billion difference between the two sides in terms of squad value, and in this game, money certainly talks.

Cobham have done it again

Tyrique George is the latest Chelsea academy star making a name for himself. Unlike 95% of those that came before him, he’s done it without going on loan first. The youngster has grasped his opportunity and ran with it.

The equaliser against Fulham earlier this month was the moment that put his name on the lips of Chelsea fans across the globe, but in the very next game against Everton, he was only given a few minutes by under-pressure boss Maresca.

He’s got two goals and four assists in just 846 minutes across all competitions so far this season. This is exactly the kind of game that would give George the opportunity to carry on his momentum and fight for a regular place.

The Swedes have problems in front of goal

For those that don’t know, the Allsvenskan, Sweden’s top division, is topsy turvy. It turns out playing football in the country’s harsh winters is ill advised, who’d have thought it, so they play through the summer instead.

Djurgården’s domestic season has only just begun, but they’re struggling. Sitting down in 11^th with seven points, they’ve remarkably only scored one goal in their five games, and that came from right-back Adam Stahl.

None of their current crop of forwards have a history of being prolific and coming up against the fourth best defence in the Premier League may just be a bridge too far.

“Play a right-back Enzo”

The Italian coach has come under considerable fire for multiple reasons in recent months, with one of the most confusing being what he is currently doing with the right-back position. Central midfielder Moisés Caicedo was given the nod over Reece James in the 1-0 win over Everton.

At his best, James is one of Chelsea’s most potent attacking threats. That has been nullified by Maresca’s insistence that he inverts into midfield or plays him as a CM from the start.

It’s also impacted Cole Palmer’s form. The playmaker likes to play on the right and drift into the number ten role, without someone overlapping he’s unable to draw out opposition defenders and get into positions that would allow him to score or assist. All this micromanaging has gone too far. Play a right-back Enzo.

Prediction

This may sound a little harsh but we simply can’t see Djurgården getting anything from this one. We’re going to go with a comfortable 3-0 win for Chelsea here.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

You can follow every game from the Europa Conference League with FotMob this season — featuring deep stats coverage, xG, player ratings, and a new super-intuitive knockout stage bracket. Download the free app here.

May

2025

Preview: Arctic adventurers Bodø/Glimt head to the Tottenham Hotspur stadium

Spurs’ season has become car crash, but can they continue their attempts to rescue something from it in the Europa League against Bodø/Glimt?

By Ian King

Form

Are we talking about Europe or domestically, here? Because Spurs have been the Jekyll and Hyde of the Premier League recently, losing their last three in a row while conceding eleven goals, but also putting in two of their most accomplished performances of the season in their quarter-final win against Eintracht Frankfurt.

Bodø/Glimt run to a different schedule. Because Norway has a summer league they’ve only just started their domestic season. The two-time defending Eliteserien champions are currently second with three wins and a draw from their opening four matches.

History makers

This is the first time that a Norwegian club has ever reached the semi-finals of a European competition, but Bodø/Glimt’s record against English clubs is pretty bad. They played Arsenal in 2022/23 and lost twice, and played Manchester United in the League Phase of this year’s tournament, losing 3-2 at Old Trafford.

Spurs have a 100% record against Norwegian clubs in Europe. In 1972/73 they beat Lyn 12-3 on aggregate, and they beat Tromsø 3-0 and 2-0 in the group stage of the 2013/14 Europa League.

Key Players

High points have been thin on the ground for Spurs this season, but the form of Dejan Kulusevski remains among them. He remains one of the keys to unlocking any opposing defence and has eight goals and six assists in all competitions this season. Glimt’s main goal threat is striker Kasper Høgh, who’s the joint-top goalscorer in this competition with seven and has started their League season with four in four appearances.

Team News

Spurs made eight changes for their shellacking at Anfield on Sunday, and most will be returning. Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero should return to central defence, replacing Ben Davies and Kevin Danso, while Rodrigo Bentancur will return to midfield. But Heung-min Son remains doubtful after having missed the last four matches and will sit this one out, with a return in the second leg looking more likely. They will be without Radu Drăgușin, while Antonin Kinsky and Timo Werner are not registered for the knockout stages of this competition.

Bodø/Glimt have Andreas Helmersen, captain Patrick Berg and Håkon Evjen suspended, while defender Odin Bjørtuft and winger Ole Blomberg were injured last weekend and may be missing.

Prediction

The result of this match will come down to whether Spurs bring their European or Premier League form into it. If they play as they have in recent League matches, then a surprise could be on the cards, but if they can replicate what they achieved in Frankfurt a couple of weeks ago a win should be expected. Bodø/Glimt have had an outstanding run to get this far in this competition and have it in them to keep themselves in the tie for the return match. 2-1 Spurs, so all to play for in the second leg.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

May

2025

Preview: Athletic Club welcome Manchester United to the Basque Country

Athletic Club are targeting a Europa League final in their own stadium while Manchester United are looking to salvage their season.

By Graham Ruthven

Home comforts

If all goes to plan for Athletic Club, they will have one more home match in this season’s Europa League. With the final at San Mamés, the Basque outfit are determined to win a continental trophy for the first time in their 126-year history.

Ernesto Valverde’s side have won all six of their Europa League matches at home this season, overcoming AZ Alkmaar, Sparta Prague, Elfsborg, Viktoria Plzeň, Roma and Rangers on their way to the final four.

Manchester United more than earned their place in the Europa League semi-finals by staging a remarkable comeback against Lyon in the last round, scoring three goals in the final seven minutes of extra time.

With the Old Trafford club suffering their worst-ever Premier League campaign, Ruben Amorim and his players have pinned everything on winning the Europa League. This is their only route to redemption.

Key players

Nico Williams has peaked at the right time of the season, scoring in each of his last two starting appearances for Athletic Club including in the Europa League quarter-final win over Rangers.

Iñaki Williams will also pose a threat with the two brothers expected to line up on either side of the Athletic Club forward line. They could expose the space in behind the Manchester United backline.

Oihan Sancet has been exceptional for the Basques this season, scoring 17 goals in all competitions, but the attacking midfielder will be sidelined for the first leg through injury. Unai Gómez is in line to start in his place.

Bruno Fernandes will be the player Manchester United look to for some magic on Thursday night. For all that the Reds Devils have floundered badly this season, the Portuguese remains a reliable difference-maker, scoring 17 goals in all competitions.

Rasmus Højlund will lead the line for the visitors to San Mamés and might have more confidence after scoring a late equaliser in the 1-1 draw against Bournemouth. The Dane needs to show greater cutting edge on a more consistent basis.

Luke Shaw could be in line to feature after starting his first game of the season at the Vitality Stadium on Sunday with Leny Yoro and Harry Maguire likely to make up the rest of the back three.

Meanwhile, there will be a spotlight on André Onana after the Cameroonian goalkeeper’s mistakes against Lyon. Manchester United need him to be stronger in the semi-final.

Team news

Sancet is sidelined for Athletic Club, leaving a sizeable hope in the number 10 position. Besides the 25-year-old, however, Valverde has a fully fit and available squad.

Manchester United, on the other hand, have a long injury list. Indeed, Amorim will be without as many as five starting players with Lisandro Martínez, Amad Diallo, Joshua Zirkzee, Diogo Dalot and Ayden Heaven missing.

Matthijs de Ligt is also an injury doubt for the trip to the Basque Country while Chido Obi will play no part in the match.

Prediction

Form and that famous football notion of romance dictates a home win for Athletic Club to continue their fairytale run to the final. But with United’s season depending on this two legged tie, perhaps tonight’s result with leave things open for next week’s return game at Old Trafford: Athletic Club 2-1 Manchester United.

(Cover image from IMAGO)