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.
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)
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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 GMTon 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.
Alexander-Arnold player traits
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)
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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.
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)
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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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.
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)
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Dealing with rejection isn’t easy…just ask a Fiorentina fan. Two seasons ago, they reached the Coppa Italia Final and relinquished an early lead in a 2-1 defeat to Inter, whilst they also lost 2-1 to West Ham in the UEFA Europa Conference League Final courtesy of Jarrod Bowen’s 90th-minute goal.
Last season, Fiorentina looked set to miss out on Europe after an eighth-place finish in Serie A only to be given a reprieve by Juventus’ UEFA ban. After erasing a first-leg deficit and beating Rapid Wien in the UEFA Europa Conference qualifiers, La Viola finished top of their group before beating Maccabi Haifa, Viktoria Plzeň and Club Brugge en route to their second consecutive final in UEFA’s fledgling third tier competition. Having lost to Atalanta in the Coppa Italia semifinals and Napoli in the Supercoppa Italiana semifinal in the previous months, this was their chance to win their first piece of silverware in 23 years.
Once again, the footballing gods subjected Fiorentina to another cruel twist of fate. When it seemed the title would be decided on penalties, Ayoub El Kaabi scored in the 116th minute to snatch a 1-0 victory for Olympiacos, who became the first Greek team ever to win a European trophy. There was no more room for doubt: it was time for a rebuild. Veteran midfielders like Giacomo Bonaventura and Gaetano Castrovilli left on free transfers, defensive talisman Nikola Milenković and top scorer Nicolás González joined Nottingham Forest and Juventus for substantial fees, and coach Vincenzo Italiano left his post after three years at the helm. Enter: Raffaele Palladino.
Palladino only made his managerial debut on September 13, 2022, guiding Monza to a maiden Serie A victory against Juve and leading them to 11th and 12th-place finishes in their first two seasons in Serie A before making the move from Lombardy to Tuscany. And yet, he’s quickly implanted his tactical DNA and steered Fiorentina to a stellar start. After 13 games played, La Viola find themselves on track to qualify for the Champions League for the first time in 16 years.
“Italiano’s Viola won the possession battle in every game, often to their own detriment as opponents dropped into a deep block and picked them off on the break,” said Tito Kohout of the English-language Fiorentina website Viola Nation. “Palladino’s team, on the other hand, is happy to soak up pressure and play on the break, giving the attackers more space to work with. There’s now a willingness to let the players find their own solutions within a tactical framework rather than insisting on mechanical repetitions and hoping something works. That was Italiano’s approach and it dragged Fiorentina back from the brink, but wasn’t fun to watch and became very predictable.”
After spending the past years tightening their pursestrings and budgeting for the construction of the €110 million Viola Park which contains 10 practice fields, two stadia, a swimming pool, and state-of-the-art training and medical facilities, Fiorentina were finally able to spend more than they received in transfer fees and acquire 11 new players in the summer of 2024. Many of these signings were, for lack of a better word, rejects. Danilo Cataldi, Edoardo Bove and Yacine Adli were surplus to requirements at Lazio, Roma, and Milan, but they’ve all found a new lease on life in Fiorentina’s midfield.
One man’s trash is another man’s treasure, and that’s certainly been the case with Moise Kean. Having failed to score in 20 appearances last season for Juventus, Kean has racked up 12 goals and one assist in 15 appearances since heading to Fiorentina. His nine league goals are bettered only by Mateo Retegui (12), while he leads Serie A in Expected Goals (9.1) and Expected Goals on Target (9.8).
Moise Kean shot map, Serie A 2024/25
Fiorentina are conceding the third-fewest goals per match (0.8) and have the third-most clean sheets (6) in Serie A thanks in large part to the stellar performances of another ‘reject’: David De Gea between the sticks. Despite boasting a decade of experience as Manchester United’s starting goalkeeper, he was forced to spend an entire year as a free agent before finally finding a new club in August. It hasn’t taken long for him to hit top form at the Stadio Artemio Franchi, registering the highest save percentage (82.5%) and the third-most goals prevented (3.0) in Italy.
Serie A save percentages, 2024/25
“Sporting Director Daniele Pradè and Technical Director Roberto Goretti did an amazing job in the window,” said Kouhout. “Because so many players arrived late in the window, there wasn’t much continuity in preseason and Palladino had to build the plane in midair. It was pretty bumpy at the start but it started falling into place against Atalanta. A lot of what Fiorentina is doing on the pitch looks sustainable rather than just being outlier results, so Palladino deserves a ton of credit for the work he’s done integrating the new signings and then changing the entire system just a month into the season.”
After opening the season with five straight draws and a loss at Atalanta, Fiorentina edged Lazio 2-1 before drawing 0-0 at Empoli. Since then, they’ve won 10 of their last 11 matches, the sole exception being a 2-1 defeat at APOEL in the UEFA Europa Conference League on November 7. Palladino has struck the right balance with a 4-2-3-1 formation based on aggressive, man-to-man marking, a high backline, and quick, vertical passing – no team is completing more accurate long balls per match than Fiorentina (27.8). They sit fourth in Serie A, four points behind Napoli, level on 28 points with Inter, Lazio and Atalanta, two above Juventus and six above Milan, with a game in hand on Napoli, Lazio and Juve. We’re only a third of the way into the season, but Fiorentina are on track to finish in the top six for the first time in nine years.
They were looking to secure a ninth straight league win in Sunday’s home match vs. Inter, but the game was suspended after Bove collapsed onto the pitch in the 17th minute. He was hauled away in an ambulance and spent nearly 13 hours in a medically induced coma before being extubated on Monday. Edoardo is awake, alert, and responding to questions, and the first cardiological and neurological tests have ruled out acute damage to the central nervous and cardiorespiratory systems.
Fiorentina fans are accustomed to heartbreak – both on and off the pitch. Club captain Davide Astori and chief executive Joe Barone tragically succumbed to cardiac arrest in March 2018 and March 2024, but as for Bove, he looks set to make a miraculous recovery from his cardiac arrest. And when he does return to the pitch, he’ll be given a hero’s welcome at a club whose supporters have been given more and more reasons to smile.
(Cover image from IMAGO)
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Indeed, since the 2003/04 season, the club had won all but three of the league titles on offer during this time. Five Swiss Cup triumphs and back-to-back appearances in the last eight of the Europa League suggested that this was a dynasty which looked destined to continue for at least a few more years.
But after over a decade of feasting, the consequent seven years have seen Basel endure a severe famine, winning just a single cup between their last title triumph and now.
The 2022/23 campaign saw Basel endure their lowest ebb in recent memory, dropping to fifth in the league. Unthinkable during their heyday. Worse was to come in last year as they ended the 38-game season in eighth.
Fast forward to this season, however, and there’s a chance the club could be about to embark on another prolonged period of success. They currently lead the Swiss Super League by a point following a solid start to the 2024/25 campaign.
Basel’s impressive season start
Several management changes and leadership transitions turned Basel from a dominant force into a laughing stock. Eight different managers have taken charge of the club between 2017 and 2024 (Alexander Frei on two occasions).
Fabio Celestini was appointed in October 2023 and was tasked with cleaning up the mess left by his predecessors. Despite the eighth place finish last term, hopes are now high that the club could end their long title drought.
After 16 fixtures, the club currently top the league table, amassing 29 points, sitting clear of Lugano at the summit by a single point.
Basel have scored more goals than any other team (39) along with conceding the fewest (17) domestically. These building blocks could be the start of something very special.
Not only that, but the club rank first in the league for goals per match (2.4), big chances (45) and Expected Goals (32.1). With Basel conceding just 1.1 goals per game, ranking first in the league, it is clear that Celestini has finally got a tune out of his squad of players.
Bénie Traoré and Kevin Carlos both have six goals in the league, and Albian Ajeti has five. This trio will be crucial between now and the end of the season, yet is it a wily old veteran who is spearheading Basel’s title challenge this season?
The Curious Case of Xherdan Shaqiri
Of course, Xherdan Shaqiri began his career with Basel before making the move to the slightly brighter lights of German football, joining Bayern Munich in 2012.
From there, the diminutive forward enjoyed spells at Inter Milan, Stoke City, and Liverpool, where he won the Premier League and Champions League before moving on to Lyon in 2021.
After a spell with MLS side Chicago Fire, Shaqiri returned to his boyhood club in August, signing a three-year deal. At 32, there is no doubting the player is coming towards the end of his wonderful career, but he is still young enough to inspire Basel to glory.
Shaqiri player traits
And it’s been a case of so far so good for the former Liverpool star. Across 13 games in all competitions, Shaqiri has scored six times and registered seven assists, shining in the Super League in particular.
Used mainly as an attacking midfielder or out on the right flank, Celestini has certainly reignited a fire in the Swiss footballing icon, with Shaqiri at the forefront of everything positive about Basel this term.
In the top flight, Shaqiri ranks first for assists (7), big chances created (9), and Expected Assists (4.8), proving that there is life in the old dog yet.
Swiss Super League goal contributions, 2024/25
His experience has been a vital component of Basel’s excellent start to the season. For example, during a tense clash with rivals Young Boys at the start of the October, Shaqiri delivered a delightful cross into the box where Adrian Barišić powered a header into the goal to make it 1-0 to the home side.
Young Boys had won six of the previous seven titles since Basel’s last triumph and considering they had won the first match of the season between the two, this result may have potentially altered the balance of power in Switzerland.
Since then, last season’s champions are enduring their own lull, languishing in ninth position, seemingly out of the title race already.
Thanks to Shaqiri, Basel have a wise old head in their squad who knows what it feels like to win a league title with the club.
After years of mismanagement and failings on the field, Celestini has certainly pulled off a masterstroke by luring the 32-year-old back to his homeland.
The next few months will be crucial, but if Basel can stay ahead of the trailing pack, the signing of Shaqiri might go down as the catalyst of a new era at St. Jakob-Park. For that is a certainty.
(Cover image from IMAGO)
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Caoimhin Kelleher hasn’t just filled in for the best goalkeeper in the world recently. He’s actually replaced Alisson Becker between the sticks for Liverpool. That is how good the 26-year-old has been for the table-topping Reds.
Arne Slot’s side haven’t missed the big Brazilian during his latest injury lay-off. Their 100% record in the Champions League remains intact while they’ve managed to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table to nine points.
Rival teams struggle when a star player misses a run of games. Look at Manchester City without Rodri and Arsenal sans Martin Ødegaard. Others might’ve allowed their season to be derailed by the loss of their No1. Had Liverpool’s form taken a hit, nobody would’ve been shocked. After all, they’re missing one of the best goalkeepers in Premier League history.
And there’s no real incentive for Kelleher to perform well for the Reds. Slot already confirmed that Alisson is his undisputed starter when fit. The impending arrival of Giorgi Mamardashvili also suggests the Republic of Ireland international doesn’t have a future on Merseyside.
The Cork native could’ve come into the XI and gone through the motions until the return of Alisson. You wouldn’t really have blamed him either, would you? No matter what he does, he’s going to be on borrowed time in the first team. A move is already on the horizon.
Thankfully for the Reds, Kelleher has remained entirely focused. He’s performed like a player with a point to prove. Maybe he did have a point to prove after the Reds opted to bring in Mamardashvili as the heir to Alisson. Whatever the reason behind it, the 22-cap international is a key reason behind Liverpool finding themselves in such a dominant position right now.
In four of his last five starts for the Reds, he has a FotMob rating of over 8.1. In two of these games, he’s saved a penalty. He thwarted Adam Armstong from the spot in the 3-2 win over Southampton and repelled a Kylian Mbappé effort against Real Madrid as Slot’s men ran out 2-0 winners over the European champions. He then triumphed in a one-on-one with Kevin De Bruyne after a rare Virgil van Dijk error as Liverpool claimed a 2-0 win over Manchester City at Anfield.
Kelleher has been exceptional between the sticks this term and these performances have come during the toughest run of fixtures for the Reds.
He’s been in the starting XI for games against Chelsea, Arsenal, Brighton, Aston Villa and Manchester City in the Premier League and RB Leipzig, Bayer Leverkusen and LaLiga champions Real Madrid in the Champions League.
Before this run of fixtures, rival fans earmarked this period as make-or-break for the unlikely title hopefuls. The fact they dropped points in one game – a 2-2 draw with Arsenal – is remarkable, all things considered.
The recently turned 26-year-old has spared the blushes of senior players recently. Bailing Andrew Robertson out against Madrid and skipper Virgil van Dijk against City.
Robertson took to Instagram to thank the shot-stopper, declaring he owed him dinner, while Van Dijk singled out the No. 62 for praise recently.
“He is a fantastic goalkeeper, a fantastic human being. It is never easy to be a backup goalkeeper but in his case he is having an unbelievable, amazing goalkeeper in Alisson in front of him.
“But the time he has been playing he has been absolutely outstanding. I really enjoy seeing how much he has improved and is playing with confidence. I remember one of his first games when he won us the penalty shoot-out (against Arsenal in the League Cup in 2019/20) and he has come from a long way and he is an amazing goalkeeper.” Asked if Slot will have a difficult decision to make when Alisson returns to full fitness, Van Dijk added:
“Listen, that’s football. We will see. The manager decides but he (Kelleher) did fantastically up until now so we will see what happens.”
The numbers back up the optics too.
Kelleher’s goalkeeper stats, Premier League 2024/25
For example, Kelleher, in his seven Premier League starts this season, has prevented 2.1 goals. Alisson, in his six starts, has prevented 2.7 goals. The Republic of Ireland international has saved almost 80% of the shots he’s faced while the ex-Roma man has saved 88%. Both have kept three clean sheets.
The No.62 is doing his best Alisson impression and this is allowing Slot to manage the Brazilian’s return.
Alisson’s goalkeeping stats, Premier League 2024/25
He said as much in his pre-match Newcastle United conference: “I think I was clear about our position in the goalkeepers a few weeks ago, but we are just waiting for the moment Alisson is completely fit because Kelleher is doing too well to put Alisson in goal if he is only 50%. He is getting there, it might take a few more days but he’s getting closer and closer. He will be in goal before the end of December.”
On current form, Kelleher isn’t just the best second choice goalkeeper in the Premier League. He might actually be the second best goalkeeper in the English top-flight. This period in the first-team may have changed his entire career. He’s played his way into a big move and it will be well deserved.
(Cover image from IMAGO)
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Last weekend, Oihan Sancet yet again emphatically underlined why he’s one of the most exciting midfielders in Europe by propelling Athletic Club to victory over Rayo Vallecano by virtue of his brilliant brace.
Coming off the bench in the 56th minute with his team down 1-0, Sancet, who’s been battling an ankle injury, impressively rose to the occasion to power his team to a crucial 1-2 win.
Sancet shot map vs. Rayo, with match winner highlighted, LaLiga 2024/25
“Oihan has been very successful and we are happy. He is very focused, we want him to continue like this. He is making a great effort because he has a problem with his ankle and is playing with some pain,” explained Athletic manager Ernesto Valverde.
The player himself was equally delighted with his contribution and knows his team can achieve great things this term if they can keep up their momentum. “Everything went well, I scored two goals to win. I’m happy, we’re near the top of the table. I’m happy to help with goals. I hope I can continue like this,” insisted the 24-year-old.
“The goal is to finish as high as possible, we are going to dream of the Champions League, but we are still in December. We don’t set limits for ourselves, we have to take it game by game, but there’s no reason we can’t fight for the top spots.”
Bringing his goal tally up to eight on the season (seven in LaLiga, one in the Europa League), not only has he already surpassed his tally from last term (six), but he’s also the highest scoring midfielder in LaLiga and joint-second for goals among midfielders in Europe’s top five leagues behind only Cole Palmer.
Carrying on his exceptional rise, where he’s especially shone in the last two-and-a-half campaigns, the Spanish international and 2023/2024 Copa del Rey winner’s been a joy to watch.
Such a uniquely skilled player and one who brings so much to the table on both sides of the ball, there’s no denying what a key driving force he is for Valverde’s expertly coached Athletic.
An instrumental figure in connecting the midfield and attack from his hybrid No. 8 / No. 10 role within Valverde’s base 4-2-3-1/4-3-3, his presence is vital in helping his team progress upfield in many ways.
A master at recognising and exposing weaknesses in opposition structures, it’s always notable how successfully he exploits space between the lines and in the half spaces. Moreover, how he drops deep into central midfield to form numerical and positional superiorities is another important string to his bow.
Helping give his team control when checking towards the ball, another thing that warrants mention is how he coalesces smoothly with his colleagues to help manufacture space by drawing opponents and executing rotations, as the above is integral at unbalancing defensive shapes.
Reading the play intelligently and awake to gaps to attack in behind and into the box, his surges into depth amplify his effectiveness while adding verticality and directness.
As can be seen by his shot map, it’s clear how superbly he times and angles his runs into the area to be an option, which, in combination with his instinctive finishing, makes him a tremendous threat in and around the box.
Sancet shot map, LaLiga 2024/25
Standing a towering 188 cm and using his hulking frame to his advantage, this sees him act as an ideal target man and outlet when his team need to go long to beat the press or quickly clear. Picking up the ball’s trajectory swiftly and timing his leap well, his aerial prowess is extremely beneficial to help his team win second balls via headed flick-ons or knock-downs.
Sancet shooting stats per 90, LaLiga 2024/25
Furthermore, his ability to hold the ball up with his back to goal while remaining balanced and maintaining his composure enables him to bring others into play, lure out markers and win fouls in quality zones.
A fantastic reference point and always on hand for teammates to utilise in transition and measured build-up, his presence ensures Los Leones can hurt opponents in a variety of manners.
Accompanying the aforementioned with his incisive passing, he’s showcased on countless occasions how valuable he conjures chances for teammates. Be it obliging runners with considered through balls, linking play with slick combination play, switching the angle of attacks with aplomb or breaking the lines with precision, he has a pass for most situations even if his numbers are down on last season at this stage.
Sanset passing stats per 90, LaLiga 2023/24Sancet passing stats per 90, LaLiga 2024/25
Additionally, the way he flexes his muscles on the dribble to maraud upfield enhances his impact, for he’s so tough to stop when in full flight and crucially can outfox opponents with power and finesse.
Mightily effective on the defensive end as well, Sancet enjoys hunting down opponents and leading Valverde’s fierce high-press. Combative, disruptive and boasting an enviable work rate, watching him frequently regain possession for his team is definitely an endearing factor of his game.
Robust in the tackle, knowing when to drop off, shift across or push up and excellent at blocking passing lanes behind him, getting these details spot on duly accentuates what a complete package he is.
One of a number of talented generation from the Basque Country and Athletic’s Lezama academy in particular, such as fellow national team regulars Unai Simón, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Aymeric Laporte and Nico Williams, it was intriguing hearing his thoughts on his development.
“In the north, football is taught very well,” he asserted after his first Spain call-up that saw him reunite with his former Spain U18 and U21 coach in Luis de la Fuente. “There is a high level, the people of the Basque Country really like to play football. Reaching the national selection is the dream of every player. You train and fight to be at the top, so of course it is a dream and an objective achieved.”
Phenomenally talented and destined to achieve huge things in the beautiful game, it’s little wonder the Spanish ace is attracting interest from a host of elite clubs such as Manchester City, Liverpool, Inter Milan and Aston Villa.
He won’t come cheap, however, given his talent and that Athletic typically demand hefty sums for their stars due to their recruitment policy of only signing Basque players.
Furthermore, the fact he signed a remarkable contract extension until 2032 last year, and it’s understandable why the reported fee to acquire his services is believed to be in the region of €80 million.
All that talk will have to wait for now, though, for the multifaceted Sancet’s firmly focused on improving his game in his pursuit to reach the top of the sport and to keep along his sharp upward trajectory.
(Cover image from IMAGO)
You can follow every game from LaLiga on FotMob – with in-depth stat coverage including xG, shot maps, and player ratings. Download the free app here.
Barcelona’s recent slip-ups have handed a slight advantage to Carlo Ancelotti’s team who, following Barca’s win at Mallorca on Tuesday, now have two games in-hand over their Catalan rivals ahead of kick off against Athletic Club on Wednesday night.
Real Madrid have struggled for top form this season, but have built momentum in the league by winning nine of their last 11 matches with their only two slumps coming in games against Atlético Madrid and Barcelona.
Athletic Club have also hit a rich vein of form recently, winning four of their last five games in all competitions. The Basque outfit haven’t suffered defeat since losing to Girona in early October and will be difficult opponents for Los Blancos.
Ernesto Valverde’s team boast one of the best home records in LaLiga this season with San Mames a notoriously difficult place for away teams to visit. Despite this, Real Madrid have won their last five league games there.
Key players
Kylian Mbappé has come under intense scrutiny since his summer move from Paris Saint-Germain, but the French forward produced arguably his best performance in all-white against Getafe on Sunday.
This came with Vinícius Júnior watching from the sidelines, meaning Mbappé could operate in his preferred position on the left wing. Without Vinícius occupying the same area, Mbappé looked more like the player Real Madrid expected to be when they signed him.
Jude Bellingham has recently found goalscoring form, netting three times in his last four appearances for Real Madrid in all competitions. The Englishman is once again a driving force for the Spanish giants.
At the back, Raúl Asencio has emerged as the answer to Real Madrid’s defensive prayers following injuries to David Alaba, Dani Carvajal and Éder Militão.
Oihan Sancet scored both goals in Athletic Club’s 2-1 win over Rayo Vallecano on Sunday and is expected to be a key figure once again for the Basque outfit when Real Madrid visit San Mames. He will pose a threat.
Brothers Iñaki and Nico Williams have the ability to decide a match while Alex Berenguer is a good bet to start Wednesday’s match after impressing in the weekend victory over Rayo Vallecano.
Team news
Vinícius missed Sunday’s victory over Getafe due to a hamstring injury and is a doubt for Wednesday’s trip to the Basque Country.
Eduardo Camavinga is also expected to miss out through injury with Alaba, Carvajal and Militao all sidelined for the long-term. Despite their injury troubles, Real Madrid are finding solutions to their problems.
Beñat Prados will return from suspension after missing Sunday’s match against Rayo through yellow card accumulation. Yuri Berchiche is Athletic Club’s only injury concern at the present moment.
Valverde must decide whether to stick with Julen Agirrezabala as his first-choice goalkeeper or bring Unai Simon back into the lineup after a lengthy period out of action.
Prediction
Will stick with the recent historical trend on this one, and the fact that Ancelotti’s side are finding ways to win at the moment, so Athletic Club 1-2 Real Madrid.
(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.
