Page 91 – The Pulse of Football

Jan

2024

Is Emil Forsberg’s move to New York Red Bulls a sign of intent?

The New York Red Bulls have boasted big-name players before, but the signing of Emil Forsberg has the feeling of the club’s most significant signing in a decade. The Swedish international will leave RB Leipzig for Major League Soccer in 2024 after 10 seasons in the Bundesliga and at 32 years old he still has plenty more to offer.

By Graham Ruthven

There was a time when Red Bull Arena was a common destination for stars looking for a new home in MLS. Thierry Henry played 135 games for RBNY with Tim Cahill and Rafa Márquez both notable signings around the same time. Along with the LA Galaxy, the Red Bulls were MLS’s marquee franchise.

As the league moved into a new era, though, RBNY were left behind. Newer franchises like Los Angeles FC, and more recently Inter Miami, moved to the front of the queue for big-name signings. The introduction of New York City FC to MLS in 2015 also changed the landscape in the Red Bulls’ own city with David Villa and Frank Lampard all ending up in sky blue, not red.

RBNY have still managed to maintain a respectable regular season record, qualifying for the play-offs for a record 14 successive seasons, but at no point over the last few years has it felt like the club is moving forward. Even worse than this, it’s often felt like there is no desire at ownership level to move the club forward.

Forsberg’s arrival in Harrison represents the first time the Red Bull pipeline has sent a player of any real note to MLS. RBNY have sent players (Tyler Adams, Caden Clark) and even a head coach (Jesse Marsch) to RB Leipzig, but had only ever received two players back in return – and one of them was Clark returning to MLS on loan.

This, combined with the appointment of former Mainz, Dynamo Moscow and Hertha Berlin manager Sandro Schwarz, hints at renewed ambition at Red Bull Arena. Having been a long way down the Red Bull pecking order, below RB Leipzig and even Red Bull Salzburg, for years, RBNY might now be able to build something of their own.

It’s not just that Forsberg is a big-name signing, although that certainly counts for something in a symbolic sense. The Swedish attacker is also accustomed to playing the high-risk, high-energy brand of football the Red Bull ownership group likes all its teams to play, meaning he should be able to get off to a quick start in MLS.

While 2023 wasn’t exactly a vintage year for RBNY, some foundations were put in place for Schwarz to build on as the new man in charge. The defensive basis of Andres Reyes, Sean Nealis and John Tolkin kept the Red Bulls competitive even as their attack struggled to produce. Now they have Forsberg to address the latter.

Red Bull’s global scouting network gives RBNY an edge in the transfer market, but a lack of investment has limited what the club can achieve in a recruitment sense. Red Bull also purposefully centres RBNY’s recruitment strategy around the signing and development of young players to funnel into their system. They want an American output to coach local talent in the Red Bull style of play.

When RBNY have spent money on players in recent years, they have struck out – see Dante Vanzeir, Patryk Klimala, Dru Yearwood and Josh Sims. Forsberg, however, is of a much higher calibre than any of the Red Bulls’ recent Designated Players and therefore stands a better chance of making a meaningful impression.

Eyes will be drawn to Inter Miami in 2024 as they continue to assemble the most star-laden squad in MLS history. Luis Suárez has joined Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba in South Florida, making Inter Miami MLS Cup and Supporters’ Shield frontrunners in the eyes of many observers of the league. The Columbus Crew, FC Cincinnati and Los Angeles FC also all have interesting things going on.

The New York Red Bulls haven’t been interesting in a long while, but this is in the process of changing ahead of the 2024 season. The Red Bull ownership group are finally paying some attention to the often ignored, under-appreciated sibling within its family. By moving from one family home to the other, Forsberg could have a profound impact.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

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

Jan

2024

Transfer Targets: A look at Lille’s teenage centre-back Leny Yoro

Since stunning PSG to win Ligue 1 back during the 2020/21 season, it’s hardly proved to be plain sailing for LOSC Lille, who have so far failed to back-up that unlikely success.

In the subsequent years, a number of their quality youth prospects have left the club, including the likes of Carlos Baleba and Timothy Weah, who both departed last summer, but in their absence an 18-year-old centre back has truly emerged on the scene.

By Nathan Evans

His name is Leny Yoro and after just six months as a regular starter with Les Dogues, he’s already being touted as a transfer target during this winter window for some of the biggest football clubs in the world.

If you’ve caught a glimpse of Yoro in action this campaign, you’ll have seen why the likes of PSG, Manchester United, Chelsea, Bayern Munich and many other elite European clubs are looking to claim his signature in the near future.

Making his first team debut last season at the age of 16 – becoming the second youngest player in Ligue 1 history in the process – the most noticeable part of the Lille star’s game is how calm and composed he is on the ball for a player of his age. This season, he’s taken the next step in his development in that regard and as a result, there are few defenders playing in France’s top-flight that look as tidy in possession.

Through his opening 16 matches in Ligue 1 this campaign, Yoro has excelled as a ball-playing defender who possesses a huge and varied range of passing. His passing accuracy overall stands at 90.9% which could be further improved upon compared to the elite level players, but when you factor in that he regularly enjoys playing mid-to-long range passes to his full-backs and wingers, it highlights his ability to pick out his man no matter where they may be on the pitch. His 60.71 successful passes completed per 90 also demonstrate his desire to be on the ball when possible, and rank him second at LOSC in league action this season.

His comfort in possession can be further emphasised by his ability to successfully dribble past opponents when needed (83.3% success rate). Traditionally, that’s not a skill usually desired from a central defender but possessing that ability, coupled with his range of passing, has helped the Lille defence to frequently break down their opponents’ offensive press this season and set up their own counter-attacks in the process.

But where Yoro really thrives is in winning his duels across the board. Despite standing at 6 foot 2, he has seemingly struggled to get to grips from an aerial perspective in professional football so far, but that part of his game continues to grow steadily.

But what he lacks in that department, he more than makes up for when competing in ground duels. That’s because at present, the Lille youngster currently holds a 80.4% success rate in such duels, the best of any centre back playing in Europe’s top five leagues this campaign.

Considering some of the players currently on that list, that’s simply an unbelievable level to be operating at when only 18-years-old, not playing at one of Europe’s elite clubs, and with plenty of room for further improvement in that area.

Elsewhere defensively, Yoro has won 76.2% of his attempted tackles which sees him comfortably inside the top 15% of all Ligue 1 defenders this season, whilst his 21 successful interceptions also showcase his awareness, anticipation and burst of pace which he possesses and uses to great effect.

There’s also the added bonus that Yoro is proving to be a big threat at set pieces from an attacking perspective, as he’s scored three times across 21 appearances for Lille this season. His two that have come in Ligue 1 have both come in very different ways too, one coming as a deft header to just inside the far post, whilst the other came via a fantastic over the shoulder volley from a chipped free kick.

Of course, there are still large areas of improvement that need to be made across the board for Yoro to become one of the best defenders in Europe and start advancing towards the French national team set up. His desire to advance the ball up the field whilst in possession can see him caught out of position on occasion, and his positioning can seem lacking in important situations. His recent own goal vs Strasbourg and the penalty he conceded against Metz following a poor touch also underline that much more experience is still needed for him to reach the next level of his development.

Whether that will be with Lille or not beyond the January transfer window is still yet to be seen as the big clubs circle, but at 18-years-old, Leny Yoro remains one of European football’s most promising young defenders and should only continue to grow exponentially in both talent and recognition.

(Images from IMAGO)

To keep up to date with all the latest Transfers, check out the FotMob Transfer Centre. Download the free app here.

Dec

2023

Premier League Preview: Matchday 20

Yep, there’s more Premier League football.

Matchday 20 is a bumper round of fixtures spread over four days. There are a number of matches that have the potential to have huge ramifications on how the English top-flight shapes up over the coming weeks, so here’s your preview.

By Sam McGuire, Premier League expert

An opportunity for Luton

Luton kick things off this weekend with a home match against Chelsea on Saturday afternoon.

Rob Edwards’ men have won consecutive matches in the Premier League and a third win on the spin would lift them out of the relegation zone, at least for a couple of hours.

The Hatters have been a handful at Kenilworth Road this term, leading against Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal. They’ll fancy their chances against an inconsistent Chelsea team.

Mauricio Pochettino’s men have lost three of their last five in the Premier League but have won two of their last three.

Defeat to Luton should be a huge shock, but would it be?

Can Manchester City make a statement?

Manchester City know a win against Sheffield United could take them as high as second in the Premier League depending on how other results go this weekend.

Pep Guardiola’s side haven’t been in the greatest form over recent weeks but rival teams have failed to capitalise.

City are famed for their long, unbeaten runs and a win here would make it two from two since returning from the Club World Cup.

They are up against the team currently marooned at the bottom of the Premier League table and if the hosts are in a ruthless mood, this could be a long day in Manchester for Chris Wilder’s men. They’ve kept just one clean sheet in the English top-flight this term. It would be a real shock if that figure stands at two come Saturday evening.

Jekyll and Hyde Manchester United

Manchester United might well be the most inconsistent team in the Premier League this term.

Erik Ten Hag’s side have won 10 and lost eight of their 19 matches. They’ve had to come from behind on a number of occasions to pick up maximum points and they had to repeat that trick against Aston Villa on Boxing Day.

The Red Devils trailed 2-0 but eventually claimed a 3-2 win over Villa to record just their second win in their last eight outings across all competitions.

Prior to the victory over Unai Emery’s side, United had been on a four game winless streak and this included losses to Bournemouth and West Ham.

They face Nottingham Forest on Saturday evening with nobody really knowing what to expect. In their last outing, Forest claimed a big win over Newcastle United and showcased just how dangerous they can be on the break. The Red Devils will need to be wary if they’re going to build some momentum heading into the new year.

Bouncebackability

Arsenal are winless in two. The title hopefuls lost at the Emirates to West Ham United just days after failing to convert a 1-0 lead against Liverpool into all three points.

Mikel Arteta’s side are now second in the Premier League table, two points off the pace.

They travel to Craven Cottage on Sunday looking to return to the summit. However, Fulham have the potential to cause the Gunners a number of issues.

Marco Silva’s side have already claimed a 2-2 draw with Arsenal this season and though they’re currently on a three match losing streak in the league, they have showcased their attacking potency this term. In early December, they scored 16 goals in four matches.

If Arsenal aren’t focused, there could be an upset on the cards. This is the sort of game that will really test their credentials are title hopefuls.

A new pressure for Liverpool

Liverpool went from being the hunter to the hunted. The Reds are top of the Premier League table following their 2-0 win over Burnley coupled with Arsenal’s loss to West Ham.

There’s still half of the season left to play but if Jürgen Klopp’s side just match the results of the chasing pack, they win the title. So the pressure is on.

They welcome an out-of-form Newcastle to Anfield and many expect this to be a formality for the Reds. But the Magpies will want to put in a performance for Eddie Howe. Reports suggest he’s under pressure following a three match winless run and the players will know a big showing at Anfield will give the manager some breathing space.

Manchester United did it a few weeks ago against Liverpool, there’s no reason Newcastle won’t head to Anfield thinking they can’t do similar. If they frustrate the hosts, there will be chances on the break.

The Seagulls or the Hammers

The final game of matchday 20 sees Brighton travel to West Ham.

Both teams had positive results in midweek with West Ham beating Arsenal and Brighton hitting Spurs for four.

The Hammers and the Seagulls will want to build some momentum ahead of the new year. A win for Roberto De Zerbi’s men would see them leapfrog West Ham and potentially move up to sixth, though that is dependent on other results. If David Moyes’ side pick up maximum points, they can potentially move into fifth position.

This isn’t a six pointer but there is an opportunity to dent a rival’s season with a win and that will be a huge incentive for both teams.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

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

Dec

2023

Premier League Team of the Week: Matchday 19

Perhaps surprisingly, no player from teams within the top four make the FotMob Team of the Week. We do, however, have some regulars in the team as well as a couple of first timers. Here’s your matchday 19 TOTW.

By Sam McGuire, Premier League expert

Goalkeeper: Alphonse Areola

Areola has had some week. He returned to West Ham United’s Premier League starting XI for the match against Manchester United and he kept a clean sheet in a 2-0 win.

He then kept a clean sheet in the 2-0 victory against Arsenal and it was his performance at the Emirates that has earned him a place in the team of the week.

The 30-year-old made eight saves on his way to an 8.7 rating. Six of those saves arrived from shots from inside the penalty area too as Arsenal found ways to carve out chance after chance.

Right-Back: Malo Gusto

Deputising for the injured Reece James, Gusto caught the eye in the 2-1 win over Crystal Palace.

The young French full-back created two chances, one of which was a big chance, while also registering an assist for the Blues. Gusto attempted 98 passes and found a teammate 94% of the time. Defensively he was solid too, making eight recoveries and involving himself in 13 duels.

Centre-Back: Konstantinos Mavropanos

Facing his former side, Mavropanos certainly made an impression in West Ham’s win over Arsenal.

The defender had the fewest touches (26) of any player to play 90 minutes but did well whenever he was involved. He finished with a pass success rate of 75%, he won 100% of his tackles and 50% of his duels. The former VfB Stuttgart centre-back also scored the all-important second goal for the Hammers.

Centre-Back: Toti Gomes

Wolves made it back-to-back wins in the Premier League with an empathic 4-1 triumph over Brentford.

The focus will no doubt be on the attackers but Gomes caught the eye defensively. The 24-year-old made four clearances, won three out of four aerial duels and came out on top in 50% of his ground duels.

He finished the game with a pass success rate of 82%, creating one big chance and claiming an assist.

Left-Back: Dango Ouattara

Bournemouth made the bold decision to use Ouattara as a left-back in the game against Fulham. The winger certainly impressed in the new position.

He won the most duels (nine) of any player on the pitch on his way to an 8.1 rating. He found a teammate with 81% of his attempted passes, completed two of his three dribbles, won 100% of his tackles and 75% of his aerial duels.

Midfield: Alejandro Garnacho

The 19-year-old ended a six-match goal drought to score twice in Manchester United’s comeback victory over Aston Villa at Old Trafford.

The young winger had four shots in total and created one chance in what was an eye-catching display. He also attempted three dribbles.

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of his display was the fact he scored with both feet to showcase his varied finishing ability. His unpredictability will be an asset.

Midfield: Anthony Elanga

From one Red Devil to a former one. Elanga was one of the star performers for Nottingham Forest as they beat Newcastle United at St James’ Park.

The versatile forward made just 18 passes in total but he made them count. He created three big chances and finished the game with two assists. He also had five efforts on goal and probably deserved to add to his haul of four goals this season. His performance deserved it.

Midfield: Hee-Chan Hwang

Another game, another goal for the Wolves midfielder. In fact he scored twice in just 45 minutes to take his tally for the campaign to 10.

His showing against Brentford earned him an 8.7 rating. The 27-year-old finished with an Expected Goals haul of 1.43 and involved himself in nine duels to showcase his duality.

Forward: Alexander Isak

Somehow, Isak finished on the losing side this week. The Newcastle forward put on quite the show at St James’ Park but couldn’t help his side avoid defeat to Nottingham Forest.

He scored the opener, converting the penalty he had won. Isak also created three chances, had a total of six shots and completed the most dribbles (four) of any player. He was, at times, a one-man attack.

Forward: Chris Wood

Wood was the star of the show this week with his 9.7 rating. The powerhouse forward had the fewest number of touches of any outfield player to play 90 minutes in Nottingham Forest’s 3-1 win over Newcastle.

The former Magpie won 100% of his aerial duels and found the back of the net with all three of his efforts. He’s now on seven for the season and his exploits in front of goal helped lift Nuno Espírito Santo’s men up to 16th in the Premier League table.

Forward: João Pedro

Pedro stole the show against Spurs. The Brazilian forward scored twice and assisted one other goal in his way to a 9.4 FotMob rating.

The Brighton No. 9 had a 100% shot accuracy against Ange Postecoglou’s side. He also attempted four dribbles on Thursday evening and involved himself in a total of 18 duels. The 22-year-old is proving himself to be a revelation for the Seagulls following his summer move from Watford. He’s now on seven goals and two assists for the Premier League campaign.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

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

Dec

2023

Premier League Review: Matchday 19

The Premier League really doesn’t disappoint, does it? Matchday 19, spread across three days, delivered in every single way imaginable. So here’s a round-up of the biggest talking points.

By Sam McGuire, Premier League expert

St James’ Park silenced

Newcastle United took the lead against a struggling Nottingham Forest side after just 23 minutes. The hosts controlled the first half – with 62% possession and a significantly higher Expected Goals haul – right up until the final moments. Former Magpie Chris Wood levelled things up in stoppage time against the run of play.

And this changed the game completely.

Wood then added two quick goals in the second half to complete his hattrick and put Forest in a commanding position.

The Magpies huffed and puffed, carving out chances worth 2.43 Expected Goals, but they couldn’t find a way back into the match.

Nottingham Forest executed their game plan to perfection, creating five big chances and catching the hosts out on the break time and time again.

The win lifts Nuno Espírito Santo’s side up to 16th and they’re just two points off of 14th placed Brentford. Defeat has seen Newcastle drop down to ninth.

Sheffield United stunned

With 69 minutes on the clock at Bramall Lane, it appeared as though Sheffield United would be winning the six-pointer against Luton Town.

The Blades had recovered from 1-0 down, scoring twice in an eight minute spell, to lead with just over 20 minutes left to play.

And then a mad four minute spell changed the outcome.

Sheffield United defender Jack Robinson scored an own goal with 13 minutes remaining and four minutes later, Anis Ben Slimane repeated the trick, scoring past his own goalkeeper to give Luton the lead.

It was, by definition, a smash and grab. The hosts had nine more efforts and created an astonishing six big chances. Chris Wilder’s men finished with an Expected Goals total of 2.59. For comparison, Luton mustered efforts worth just 0.63 Expected Goals.

Sheffield United deserved the points. Luton claimed all of them though to move to within a single point of escaping the relegation zone.

An Old Trafford turnaround

Manchester United, once again, left it late to claim all three points at Old Trafford. And not for the first time this season, the Red Devils came from behind to do it.

At half-time, Aston Villa had the match won. John McGinn’s cross-cum-shot caught André Onana out. Leander Dendoncker added a second just five minutes later to give the away side a comfortable cushion.

United didn’t ramp up the pressure after the break. They had just six shots in the second half, created one big chance and finished with an Expected Goals total of 0.73 – almost identical numbers to those posted by the visitors. However, Erik Ten Hag’s side managed to find the back of the net on three occasions.

Alejandro Garnacho scored twice inside of 12 minutes to set up a grandstand finish. Those in attendance for one.

With eight minutes remaining, Rasmus Højlund scored his first Premier League goal for United. It wasn’t pretty, but it didn’t have to be. It was enough to secure the points and relieve some of the pressure on the under fire Dutchman.

The champions are back

The Club World Cup champions returned to domestic action, making the trip to Goodison Park to take on an in-form Everton side.

A shock was on the cards inside of 30 minutes when former City player Jack Harrison gave the hosts the lead.

It remained 1-0 until the halftime break, despite City controlling possession and creating the better opportunities.

The reigning Premier League champions flipped a switch in the second half, though, and found themselves level after 53 minutes, with Phil Foden finding the back of the net.

City were then awarded a controversial penalty which, in the absence of Erling Haaland, was converted by Julián Álvarez. Bernardo Silva then capitalised on a Jordan Pickford error to add an exclamation point to proceedings. In truth, it was a deserved three points for the away side and it was a victory which got them back into the title race.

The Seagulls soar

Brighton welcomed Spurs to the Amex looking for their first Premier League win since the first weekend of December. Since beating Brentford, Roberto De Zerbi’s side have drawn with Burnley and Crystal Palace while losing to Arsenal.

By comparison, Spurs went into the game on a three game winning streak. Ange Postecoglou’s side men had scored eight and conceded just two goals in matches against Newcastle, Nottingham Forest and Everton.

Few would’ve thought Brighton would run riot in this game but that is exactly what happened. The hosts raced into a 2-0 lead in the first half before adding two further goals after the break.

At one stage, it looked as though De Zerbi’s team would claim their first clean sheet of the season. But then two late goals by the visitors made it quite interesting.

It was quite the spectacle for the neutral with nine big chances and a combined Expected Goals total of 6.18.

Moyes gets his away win

David Moyes has finally won an away match against one of the traditional big four. It only took him 73 attempts.

West Ham claimed a 2-0 win over Arsenal in controversial fashion. The opener involved Jarrod Bowen poking the ball back across goal for Tomáš Souček to convert. Replays couldn’t confirm whether or not the ball had gone out of play so the on field decision couldn’t be overruled, meaning the goal was allowed.

Former Arsenal defender Konstantinos Mavropanos scored the second goal with a thunderous header. The Hammers had the opportunity to add a third from the spot when Declan Rice fouled Emerson but Saïd Benrahma saw his penalty saved by David Raya.

The Gunners were wasteful in front of goal. They took 30 shots and created five big chances but couldn’t find a way past Alphonse Areola. Arsenal now find themselves two points behind Liverpool.

(Images from IMAGO)

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

Dec

2023

Transfer Targets: Should Europe’s elite be signing FC Porto’s Evanilson?

With 11 goals in 17 appearances across all competitions to start the 2023/24 season, Porto’s Evanilson continues to prove himself as one of the continent’s most prolific, yet underrated strikers. If he continues his stunning form for the remainder of the campaign, will a big money transfer materialise for the striker? Let’s explore why teams like Arsenal, Barcelona, and Tottenham have been rumoured to be interested in securing his services in the near future.

By Nathan Evans

Let’s start with Evanilson’s biggest strength, his clinical finishing.

When you glance across the scoring charts of Europe’s top seven leagues, you’ll see plenty of familiar faces, including Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane, and PSG’s Kylian Mbappé, and although Porto’s Brazilian striker isn’t quite keeping pace to that extent, he remains firmly on page one of the list.

Standing at six foot tall, the 24-year-old’s tally for the season includes an impressive haul of four goals in five Champions League outings, as Porto qualified from Group H, after their shoot-out with Shakhtar Donetsk on Matchday 6.

When assessing his play in Europe’s premier midweek competition, his numbers look particularly strong when compared to other strikers in the tournament. Across 318 minutes of play so far, Evanilson has averaged 1.13 goals per 90, whilst he’s returned four goals from an xG total of just 1.38. When you account for the fact that one of his goals came from the penalty spot, that’s a seriously impressive figure that highlights just how clinical he’s been this campaign.

That elite level of finishing has been developed over the past few seasons at Estádio do Dragão as his vision, anticipation, and awareness have all improved dramatically. As a result, the majority of his goals in a Porto shirt have come from inside the box, thanks to his knack of knowing just where to be, at the right time, when it comes to sticking away his chances.

But Evanilson isn’t just a goalscorer, he also enjoys linking up the play to great effect and creating opportunities for his teammates. Unlike a number of top class strikers across European football, the Brazilian possesses the ability to hold up play for his side, and to great effect.

With his powerful frame, he can receive the ball either in the air or to his feet, and can then progress the ball forward in an accurate manner as seen with his 16.3 successful passes per 90 in the Portuguese top-flight this campaign. That average ranks him in the top 25% of all strikers in the competition, and has subsequently seen him amass an expected assists per 90 figure of 0.19 – one of the strongest of any player in his position. That capacity to link up play, as a forward, is particularly important at some of Europe’s top clubs, a level Evanilson should firmly be aiming for.

But perhaps the most impressive part of Evanilson’s game is his hard-working approach which sees him considered as one of the better pressing forwards currently playing in Europe’s top leagues. The 24-year-old isn’t a greedy player, in fact, he instead enjoys making a number of runs off the ball with the sole purpose of creating space for others around him. He achieves that by always being on the move, looking to make a different run each time in order to keep his defender second guessing.

His work rate can be highlighted when looking through his ‘defensive’ stats with FotMob. In the Champions League this campaign, he’s averaged winning 6.51 duels and making 0.85 interceptions per match, both stats ranking him very highly amongst strikers in the competition. He also regains possession for his side in the final third 1.2 times per 90, which has no doubt played a part in Porto’s progress across all competitions.

Overall, improvement still needs to be made across the board, if Evanilson is to reach the very top in the sport. His decision making, in particular, can seem rushed at times in the box, especially as his habit of shooting quickly to catch the goalkeeper unaware can come at the expense of finding a teammate in a much better position, on occasion, but that elite level of skill will likely come in time.

With his 11 goals so far this season, Evanilson has already bettered his tally from 2022/23, and in 27 fewer matches. That’s a swift improvement that will see some of the biggest clubs in Europe look to seal his signature in the near future, especially if his expected maiden call up to the Brazilian national team is forthcoming.

(Images from IMAGO)

To keep up to date with all the latest Transfers, check out the FotMob Transfer Centre. Download the free app here.

Dec

2023

What does Luis Suarez bring to Inter Miami?

Inter Miami might as well rebrand as ‘Lionel Messi And Friends FC.’ The South Florida club signed Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets to play alongside the greatest player of all-time and now Luis Suárez will also line up alongside Messi in Major League Soccer next season after joining from Grêmio.

By Graham Ruthven

Suárez’s transfer to Inter Miami had been rumoured for months. Head coach Tata Martino even spoke publicly about having a “plan” in place for the Uruguayan’s arrival, so nobody was surprised when the MLS club co-owned by David Beckham announced the capture of their latest big-name addition.

Talent-wise, Inter Miami boast the strongest squad in MLS. However, the Columbus Crew’s MLS Cup glory and FC Cincinnati’s Supporters’ Shield triumph proves talent only carries a team so far in a league more challenging than most outside observers give it credit for. Suárez signing won’t necessarily turn Inter Miami into a winning side.

Messi’s arrival at DRV PNK Stadium last summer certainly changed Inter Miami’s fortunes on the pitch. The South Floridians won the inaugural Leagues Cup and made a run to the US Open Cup final with the legendary Argentine their driving force. Messi also gave them a chance of making the play-offs having joined when they were bottom of the Eastern Conference.

Injury to Messi ultimately saw Inter Miami fall just short of the play-off line, but Martino found a system that worked. While Messi, Busquets and Alba gave him match-winning quality, the arrival of highly-rated youngsters Diego Gomez, Facundo Farias and Tomas Aviles also provided energy across the pitch.

This was crucial to ensuring Inter Miami could play a dynamic, modern game. With Messi, Busquets and Alba all well into the twilight of their respective careers, Martino needed players who could do the leg-work. Suárez is another veteran who will need to be harnessed by his younger, more energetic teammates.

Suárez arrives in MLS on the back of a very impressive season for Grêmio. The striker, who will turn 37 in January, made an instant impact on his debut, scoring his first goal within five minutes and a hat trick before half time. That set the tone for a Brasileirão campaign which saw Suárez net 17 goals in 33 matches and 26 goals in all competitions.

The former Barcelona and Liverpool striker appeared much leaner and fitter than the season before when he only managed 14 appearances for Nacional in Uruguay. If Inter Miami get the Grêmio Suárez, they’ll have one of the best finishers in MLS. That’s the player they hope they have signed.

At such a veteran age, though, it’s reasonable to question just how much Inter Miami will get out of Suárez. His knees have proved troublesome throughout the latter years of his career and so Martino will almost certainly have to manage the Uruguayan’s minutes across the 2024 season. Inter Miami can’t run him into the ground.

MLS fans shouldn’t expect to see the electrifying pace and razor-sharp movement that made Suárez one of the best strikers in the world at Barcelona and Liverpool. Even when fully fit, the Uruguayan isn’t as mobile as he once was, but the intelligence is still there, as is the cutting edge in front of goal.

If 2023 hinted at the team Inter Miami could become, 2024 will be the year some sort of culmination is expected. Never before has an MLS team had so much legendary talent within its squad at one time and so the bar will be high for Messi and co. Some already have them down as Supporters’ Shield and MLS Cup favourites.

“I always thought 2024 was the year, in some way, our work started,” Martino said towards the end of last season, looking ahead to the 2024 campaign. “In these four months, some important things happened for the institution. But I think our real work begins with a good preseason, with a definitive roster.”

Martino is right to highlight the work ahead of Inter Miami. Suárez could make a real impact on MLS, but gone are the days when a handful of star players would guarantee success in the league. Inter Miami did a good job of integrating Messi, Busquets and Alba last season. Now they must do the same with Suárez.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

You can follow every Inter Miami game live with FotMob — featuring deep stats coverage including shot maps, xG, and player ratings. Download the free app here.

Dec

2023

Premier League Preview: Matchday 19

It is a feast of football over the coming days and the Boxing Day schedule allows fans to gorge on matches throughout the day. Here’s your matchday 19 preview.

By Sam McGuire, Premier League expert

St James’ Park respite for Newcastle

Newcastle United host Nottingham Forest in the early kickoff on Tuesday afternoon. The Magpies, who have an awful away record, will be hoping to make home comforts count against a struggling Forest side.

The Magpies suffered a shock defeat to Luton Town on Saturday and are now seventh in the Premier League. It was their third successive loss away from home.

Nuno Espírito Santo also suffered defeat in his first match as Nottingham Forest boss against Bournemouth. The Cherries scored in stoppage time to claim all three points. The result leaves Forest just two points above the relegation zone.

Eddie Howe is under his first bit of pressure as Newcastle boss. Anything other than a win here would be a disaster.

Battle at the bottom

Sheffield United were minutes away from beating Aston Villa. Cameron Archer scored late on against his old team and it appeared as though the Blades would bring Villa’s unbeaten home record to an end. However, Nicolo Zaniolo levelled things up in stoppage time to frustrate Chris Wilder and his side.

Luton went one better by beating Newcastle United. The gap between the Hatters and the Blades is now three points.

Sheffield United need to make their home form count if they’re to avoid the drop and this is an opportunity they simply cannot waste. By comparison, Luton will likely just be happy to avoid defeat here to maintain their advantage in the Premier League table.

The Ten Hag era in danger

Defeat against West Ham United on Saturday afternoon saw Manchester United drop to ninth position in the Premier League. The Red Devils have won nine and lost eight of their 18 matches and have a negative goal difference. Erik Ten Hag is under pressure.

They welcome Aston Villa to Old Trafford on Boxing Day night needing a win. Not just that though, they probably need a performance to really get fans back on side. It won’t be easy, but the longer this goes on, the more likely it becomes that the Dutchman is shown the exit door.

Villa’s impressive run came to a halt in midweek when Sheffield United claimed a point at Villa Park. A win at Old Trafford will lift them above Arsenal into first position though. And they’ll want to put in a performance to silence those who are using the result against the Blades to prematurely declare their title challenge over.

The champions return

Manchester City are back playing Premier League football following their participation in the Club World Cup, a competition they won.

The reigning champions missed matchday 17 but the results went their way, with the top three teams all dropping points. A win against Everton at Goodison Park would see the gap at the top shrink to just three points.

City haven’t been at their best but they have the potential to switch it on, especially with Erling Haaland now back in the mix.

Everton had been on a good run of form prior to the loss to Spurs. Momentum really does matter, so Sean Dyche will want to avoid defeat in front of a home crowd. Especially when they could end this round of fixtures just a point outside of the drop zone if results go against them.

This is a big game for both teams.

The pressure is on Arsenal

Arsenal escaped Anfield with a point and lead the way in the title race. Many now expect them to beat West Ham to consolidate their position at the summit.

But West Ham are having a deceptively good season and following their win over Manchester United, they are sixth in the Premier League table. They are going to be full of confidence and have a number of players in good form.

Jarrod Bowen notched his 11th of the season against the Red Devils, one more and he matches his best return in the English top-flight. Mohammed Kudus has four goals in his last four starts for the Hammers while Lucas Paquetá has four assists in his last two Premier League outings.

The Hammers have the potential to cause Arsenal problems. They’re going to the Emirates with what is essentially a free hit. There’s no pressure on them. It is all on Mikel Arteta and his players.

(Cover image from IMAGO/Offside Sport)

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

Dec

2023

Premier League Review: Matchday 18

It is that time of the year. With the games coming thick and fast, we’re seeing shock results and surprise performances aplenty. Ahead of the Boxing Day fixtures, a look at the biggest talking points from matchday 18.

By Sam McGuire, Premier League expert

Villa’s resolve is tested

Aston Villa had the perfect opportunity to move to the top of the table. Unai Emery’s men, with their perfect record at Villa Park, hosted bottom-of-the-table Sheffield United on Friday night.

All Villa had to do was win. It didn’t have to be pretty or convincing. They just needed the three points to move ahead of Arsenal.

In the end, they had to settle for a point. Heading into stoppage time, it appeared as though they wouldn’t even achieve that.

Former Villa striker Cameron Archer fired the Blades into a well deserved lead with just three minutes left. Chris Wilder’s side weren’t able to hold on though and Nicolo Zaniolo struck in the 97th minute.

Villa now travel to Old Trafford on Boxing Day looking to return to winning ways. The point, momentarily, lifted Sheffield United off the bottom of the table but Burnley’s win on Saturday meant that was short-lived.

Another defeat for Manchester United

The Red Devils did well to limit Liverpool last weekend. They could’ve used this performance as a platform to really kickstart their season as they travelled to West Ham on Saturday afternoon.

The Hammers played in mid-week against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup and David Moyes had to rotate his team to keep things fresh.

Yet it was United who looked tired and sluggish. They dominated the ball but struggled to create anything, finishing the game with an xG total of just 1.03 as West Ham ran out 2-0 winners to move into sixth.

United now find themselves in eighth position and the pressure really is on Erik Ten Hag.

Momentum is with Spurs

Tottenham made it three wins on the spin with their 2-1 victory over Everton on Saturday afternoon.

Ange Postecoglou’s side raced into an early 2-0 lead against an in-form Toffees side, with Richarlison and Heung-Min Son continuing their fine run of form in front of goal.

The Toffees hit back in the second half with Andre Gomes halving the deficit with eight minutes left to play. In truth though, Sean Dyche’s men probably deserved at least a point.

Everton had more shots, more big chances and a higher Expected Goals total. Guglielmo Vicario was actually the highest rated player on FotMob with a score of 8.7 after making seven saves.

The Dominic Solanke show

Dominic Solanke netted a hat-trick for Bournemouth as the Cherries beat Nottingham Forest 3-2. The former Liverpool forward scored twice in quick succession after the break and then grabbed the winner in stoppage time to extend his remarkable run in front of goal.

The 26-year-old has six in his last six Premier League outings and he’s now on 11 for the season.

The Cherries are now up to 11th in the Premier League with this last-gasp win.

Nuno Espírito Santo, managing Nottingham Forest for the first time, will feel a little aggrieved in all honesty. Willy Boly was controversially sent off inside of 25 minutes and if was a uphill struggle for the hosts after that. Still, they’ll need points on the board soon to avoid relegation.

Newcastle don’t travel well

Another away match for Newcastle United, another away defeat. Only two teams have picked up fewer points than the Magpies (five) on their travels this season.

Eddie Howe’s men made the trip to Kenilworth Road on Saturday to take on a struggling Luton Town side.

The Toon Army had comfortably beaten Fulham last week and probably expected three points against the Hatters.

It wasn’t to be though. Luton had more shots, a higher Expected Goals total and finished with more big chances. They didn’t have much of the ball but they made sure to make the most of their opportunities.

Andros Townsend, a former Newcastle United winger, scored the winner for Luton. The three points means Rob Edwards’ side are just two points behind 17th placed Nottingham Forest.

Arsenal reclaim top spot

Arsenal travelled to Anfield looking to prove doubters wrong. The Gunners crumbled against Liverpool last season despite taking a 2-0 lead. After that, their title charge fell apart. This was their chance to show the world that they’re a different team this time around.

They started the game well with Gabriel nodding past Alisson after just four minutes. But then Liverpool found their way back into the game. Mohamed Salah equalised and then Trent Alexander-Arnold smashed the bar with the game there to be won.

In the end, a draw was probably a fair result when looking at the stats. Arsenal reclaimed top spot and will be top of the table for Christmas, leading the way by a single point.

(Cover image from IMAGO)

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

Dec

2023

FIVE games to follow this weekend: The build up to Christmas

In this weekend preview we summarise the best five games to follow on your match feed.

By Bill Biss

🏆 FIFA Club World Cup Final: Manchester City vs. Fluminense

First up, we’re guaranteed to see a new name etched into FIFA’s Club World Cup trophy, on Friday, as debut finalists Manchester City and Fluminense go head-to-head.

The Brazilian giants finally won their first Copa Libertadores title back in November, defeating Boca Juniors after extra-time, before then going on to finish seventh as their domestic league came to a close earlier this month. As representatives of the CONMEBOL region, Fluminense were therefore awarded a semi-final spot in this, the twentieth edition of this tournament, where they duly beat African champions Al Ahly in routine fashion. Watch out for young goal scoring sensation, John Kennedy, who will hope to feature at some point in the final. He scored in every knockout tie in the club’s Libertadores run. And then again in Monday’s semi-final.

Man City arrived in Saudi Arabia, for these finals, somewhat out of form having won just one of their last six Premier League games. But their expected superiority – as UEFA representatives – was back on show when they coasted to a 3-0 victory over AFC Champions League holders Urawa Red Diamonds in the other semi-final, played on Tuesday.

The European Champions have history on their side, with whoever is present from UEFA having won 15 of the previous 19 finals in the tournament under its current guise. And City’s Pep Guardiola is looking to become the first coach to win four titles, moving him clear of Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti in the record books. But he’ll have to do so against Fernando Diniz, a coach that is styling himself as the ‘anti-Guardiola’, and appears to be making great strides with Fluminense, if not with the Brazilian national team, who he is also temporarily in charge of.

Diniz is trying to do away with the rigid formations and a fast paced passing game, and instead, asks his players to be fluid, swarming areas of the pitch, both in possession, and to win back the ball from the opposition. The clash of styles should be interesting to watch.

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Premier League: Liverpool vs. Arsenal

Back in Man City’s domestic league, the current matchday is spread right across the weekend, with the round’s main attraction coming with this top of the table clash, scheduled as Saturday’s late kick-off.

At the time of writing, Arsenal hold a one point advantage over hosts Liverpool at the top of the standings. That could all be changed though, by Aston Villa, should Unai Emery’s side win their Friday night game against bottom team Sheffield United.

Liverpool haven’t lost a league game against the Gunners, at Anfield, since September 2012, so their current 19-game unbeaten run on their own patch (all comps) should give the Reds some confidence ahead of this one.

Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta will be targeting this game, though, as he looks for the statement victory that could see his London side really stamp their authority on this season’s title race. The Gunners come in to the game having won five of their previous six in the league, and with a league-high seven clean sheets to their name.

🇪🇸 LaLiga: Atlético Madrid vs. Sevilla

There’s just one game remaining in Spain’s top flight this year. And that comes at the Metropolitano on Saturday night.

Atlético host Sevilla, who picked up their first win under new coach Quique Sánchez Flores on Tuesday night, barely 48 hours after his appointment. They beat Granada 3-0, away from home, to collect just their third win of the season, something that moved them three points clear of the drop zone.

At the other end of the table, Atlético sit fourth, albeit 10 points off city rivals Real, who lead Girona on goal difference following games earlier in the week. With this fixture being a rearranged match from earlier in the season, Atleti were also in action midweek. Diego Simeone’s side conspired to let a 3-1 lead slip at home to Getafe, who scored on 87 minutes, and again after 93 minutes to level the contest. Atlético managed to build that lead despite the sending off of star defender Stefan Savić in the first half.

One of the side’s other main performers – Antoine Griezmann – scored twice, taking his tally to 16 goals for the season (all comps). If Sevilla are going to get anything from this game, they’ll need to stop the Frenchman from getting a good sight at goal.

🇮🇹 Serie A: Inter vs. Lecce

Also on Saturday, Serie A leaders Inter are in action when they take on mid-table Lecce. Regardless of other results (Juventus play earlier on Saturday), the Nerazzurri are guaranteed to hold on to top spot for Christmas, but coach Simone Inzaghi will be looking for a reaction from his side following a surprise in the Coppa Italia on Wednesday.

Inter are the current Coppa holders but they suffered their first defeat since September when they were knocked out of the Round of 16, by Bologna, 2-1 after extra-time, at the San Siro. That ended a 15-game unbeaten run in all competitions and came despite Carlos Augusto opening the scoring for the home side on 92 minutes.

Back in the league, Inter haven’t conceded a goal in three games, and they continue to boast both the best attack – they average 2.4 goals per games – and the best defence – they’re conceding just 0.4 goals per game – in the division. For their part, Lecce come in to this game in good nick, they’re unbeaten in five, and ended a run of four draws with last weekend’s 2-1 win over Frosinone.

🇹🇷 Süper Lig: Fenerbahçe vs. Galatasaray

By far the biggest game taking place anywhere in the world on Sunday, Christmas Eve, comes in Türkiye. Here, the two continental rivals from different sides of Istanbul sit level on points at the top of the Süper Lig, something that adds even more spice to what is already one of the most fierce local derbies in the game.

The title race already looks like being a two-horse race with these two 14 points ahead of their nearest challengers, Kayserispor. Speaking of whom, Fenerbahçe beat the third placed side in dramatic fashion on Wednesday night. That game finished 4-3 to Fener, who were the away side, and was achieved despite them going down to nine men in the closing stages.

Michy Batshuayi scored a second half hat-trick as he deputised for old warhorse Edin Džeko, who already has 12 league goals to his name this season. A tally that puts him on a par with Galatasaray’s leading man, Mauro Icardi. The Argentine striker didn’t find the net as Gala struggled to a 1-0 victory over Karagümrük on the same night to keep pace with their rivals.

With Fener being by far and away the top scorers in the division, and Gala having the strongest defence, we could be set for a season defining contest.

Cover Image from IMAGO

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