O torcedor do Santos não vive uma ‘lua de mel’ com o clube. Entretanto, os últimos resultados do Santos não são tão pessimistas. Nas últimas três partidas disputadas, o Peixe conquistou a vitória em todas ocasiões. O treinador Odair Hellmann notou evolução no time e fez uma boa avaliação dos últimos jogos, mas alerta que alguns pontos ainda necessitam de uma melhora.
– É a terceira vitória seguida, importante, mais um jogo sem levar gols. Acho que evoluímos em aspectos importantes, em outros temos que buscar essa evolução. Só fizemos uma parte do processo, precisamos fechar, temos que marcar, e temos mais 90 minutos para isso. Gera confiança, gera um bom ambiente, mas isso não entra na nossa próxima partida – declarou o comandante.
+ Confira uma lista de produtos do Santos com descontos de até 70% OFF na Centauro
continua após a publicidadeRelacionadasSantosApós gol pelo Santos, Lucas Lima encerra jejum de mais de 500 dias sem marcarSantos11/04/2023SantosOdair destaca evolução do Santos e enaltece jogada trabalhada em treinamentoSantos11/04/2023SantosVÍDEO: assista aos melhores momentos da vitória do Santos contra o Botafogo-SP na Copa do BrasilSantos11/04/2023
+ ATUAÇÕES: Lucas Lima marca primeiro gol em retorno e abre caminho para vitória do Santos
Vale relembrar que os adversários superados não estão entre os clubes considerados mais qualificados. O Iguatu-CE está presente na Série D do Brasileirão, o Blooming está na lanterna do Campeonato Boliviano, e o Botafogo-SP participará da Série B Campeonato Brasileiro.
De qualquer modo, o aproveitamento dos últimos sete jogos aponta um bom retrospecto recente. O Santos venceu cinco partidas, empatou uma e foi derrotado apenas em uma ocasião, justamente na partida que carimbou a eliminação precoce do Peixe no Paulistão. Nesse período destacado, o clube marcou treze gols e sofreu cinco.
A partir do próximo domingo, contra o Grêmio, a tendência do nível dos adversários é aumentar. Portanto, os bons resultados de Odair Hellmann serão finalmente colocados à prova em uma competição mais complicada.
Former South Africa captain, aged 29, will still continue to play in T20 leagues
Firdose Moonda16-Mar-2023
Dane van Niekerk had not played for South Africa since 2021 due to injury and other concerns•ICC via Getty
Dane van Niekerk, South Africa’s former captain, has confirmed her retirement from all forms of international cricket, but will continue to play in T20 leagues. As reported by ESPNcricinfo last week, she was set to hang up her boots amid uncertainty of whether she would get a new national contract. At the time, she had yet to discuss the situation with Cricket South Africa. She has since communicated with them through her agent to confirm that she is walking away.Van Niekerk, 29, has not played international cricket since September 2021. “It is with great sadness that I announce my retirement from international cricket,” she said in a statement issued by CSA. “It has been the greatest honour to lead and represent my country. I am incredibly blessed to have led the team through its transformative years. There is no doubt that the women’s game is in an exciting space and looking forward to seeing this beautiful game that I love grow”I look back on my career fondly and have made incredible memories and want to thank Cricket South Africa and all other stakeholders for your support. Often the journey can be lonely, painful, and emotional, but would not change it for anything. I’m grateful for what this game has given me.”It’s the last part of van Niekerk’s career that reflected the emotions she mentioned after she was struck down by a lower back injury that ruled her out of cricket for most of 2020. Then she broke her ankle while trying to prepare for the 2022 fifty-over World Cup. Van Niekerk was out of the game for more than a year and attempted a comeback for the recently completed home T20 World Cup but could not make the side after failing the two-kilometre time trial benchmark of 9:30. She fell short by 18 seconds, running on a treadmill, and described herself as “absolutely broken,” by her omission.Sune Luus was confirmed as van Niekerk’s permanent successor ahead of the tournament and led South Africa to a historic first-ever World Cup final.Van Niekerk was at the tournament in a commentary role and was picked up at the WPL auction by Royal Challengers Bangalore. She left the World Cup early to train with the team but has not played a game for her new franchise. Instead, she has been spotted supporting her wife, Marizanne Kapp, at Delhi Capitals games.
It was Kapp who first raised the alarm of van Niekerk’s retirement when she tweeted an “End of Era” message on Saturday followed by van Niekerk’s sharing an Instagram story suggesting her time in the international game was done. “You have to accept that some chapters in our lives have to close without closures,” van Niekerk posted. “There is no point in losing yourself by trying to fix what’s meant to stay broken.”The couple has put up several messages since, culminating in Kapp’s this morning in which she said her “heart breaks,” for her wife, who “deserves so much better,” and van Niekerk’s which read “that’s all,” alongside a heartbroken emoji.
Van Niekerk also thanked Kapp in her retirement statement and pledged her support to her as she enters the prime of her career. ESPNcricinfo understands that Kapp remains committed to playing for South Africa and is expected to sign a new contract. “My wife, Marizanne, you have stood by my side since day one. Thank you for putting up with me and all that came with it, but yet, here you are. You are at the pinnacle of your career and it is my time to support you, the way you have supported me. I love you,” van Niekerk said.Van Niekerk is the second South African player to retire after being embroiled in issues over fitness following Lizelle Lee, who walked away last July after falling short of her weight requirement. Both players’ decisions have come after CSA implemented more stringent minimum fitness requirements in the winter of 2022. While previously, female players had a guideline of running two-kilometres in under 10:00, it was reduced to 9:30 and became a strict criterion for selection. When questioned whether there should be different ways of measuring players’ fitness CSA’s director of cricket Enoch Nkwe and national women’s coach, Hilton Moreeng, said the current criteria are “non-negotiable,” and pointed out that all other members of the squad have met the requirement.”I would like to take this opportunity to graciously thank Dané for all her years of service and contribution to not only the ground-breaking success of the Momentum Proteas over the last decade, but to the overall growth and popularity of women’s cricket in South Africa and around the world,” Nkwe said. “Her world-class cricketing ability and exceptional leadership skills are irrefutable and will surely be missed by her team-mates, coaches and all South African fans who have followed her journey over the last 14 years. We wish Dané all the very best ahead of the next chapter in her career.”CSA will confirm their women’s contract list next week.
He officiated in a record 435 men’s international matches including four World Cup finals.
ESPNcricinfo staff16-Mar-2023
Aleem Dar has umpired in 144 Tests, more than anybody•Getty Images
Aleem Dar’s long and storied journey as an umpire on the ICC’s Elite Panel has come to an end. The 54-year old has stepped down after officiating in a record 435 men’s Tests, ODIs and T20Is including four World Cup finals. It doesn’t mean his career in international cricket is over though. Dar can still work matches played at home in Pakistan any time the PCB picks him to do so. He may also get to go on tour if he finds a place in the International Panel of Umpires – one rung down from Elite – when it is reconstituted.”I have had the pleasure and honour of umpiring the world over and what I have achieved is something I did not even dream of when I started in the profession,” Dar said in a statement released by the ICC on Thursday.”Though I am still keen to continue as an international umpire, I felt it was now the right time, after 19 years on the road to step away from the Elite panel and provide an opportunity to someone from the International Panel. My message to umpires the world over is to work hard, maintain discipline and never stop learning.”Dar has officiated more men’s Tests (144) and ODIs (222) than anybody else and was the first Pakistan umpire to be named on the Elite Panel back when it was first established in 2002. He stood in the final of the ODI World Cup in 2007 and 2011 and the T20 World Cup in 2010 and 2012. He won the David Shepherd trophy for umpire of the year three times, back-to-back, starting 2009.ESPNcricinfo understands that Dar had been considering stepping down for a while now, since before even the Covid-19 pandemic. But the ensuing lack of games and travel restrictions meant he never acted on it.”I thank the ICC, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and my colleagues on the panel for their support over the years,” Dar said. “I would also like to thank my family; without whose support I could not have gone on for so long. I look forward to continuing to serve the game as an umpire”.The ICC welcomed two new umpires onto their Elite Panel, taking its number from 11 to 12. Adrian Holdstock (South Africa) and Ahsan Raza (Pakistan), who happens to be the only person to stand in more men’s T20Is than Dar’s 69, join a list that includes Chris Gaffaney (New Zealand), Kumar Dharmasena (Sri Lanka), Marais Erasmus (South Africa), Michael Gough (England), Nitin Menon (India), Paul Reiffel (Australia), Richard Illingworth (England), Richard Kettleborough (England), Rodney Tucker (Australia), Joel Wilson (West Indies).Holdstock has officiated in five Tests, 42 ODIs and 48 T20Is while Ahsan has stood in seven Tests, 41 ODIs and 72 T20Is. Both umpires were part of the panels for the men’s T20 World Cups in 2021 and 2022.
Kushal Bhurtel’s 99 had helped Nepal post 290 for 8 but it never looked overwhelming for Zimbabwe
Danyal Rasool18-Jun-20231:36
Williams: I’m going to give that one to my dad
An unbroken 164-run partnership between Craig Ervine and Sean Williams saw Zimbabwe canter to an eight-wicket victory against Nepal to open their World Cup Qualifier campaign. At a packed Harare Sports Club, Ervine played a captain’s knock to ensure Nepal’s 290 for 8 never looked overwhelming for his side, his fourth ODI hundred the highlight of a brilliant Zimbabwean batting performance. Williams went one better, scoring Zimbabwe’s fastest-ever hundred to help the side wrap up the game with nearly six overs to spare.Zimbabwe started brightly in their pursuit, with Joylord Gumbie taking advantage of the powerplay to strike early boundaries and get the side off to a punchy start. After Sompal Kami trapped him in front, Wesley Madhevere and Ervine continued in the same vein. Zimbabwe were particularly adept at rotating the strike, and quick to punish the loose deliveries. With Nepal’s attack ill-equipped to threaten, especially on a surface as docile as this, the home side had the experience of knowing the game was theirs to lose.That experience proved especially salient when Williams joined his fellow old hand Ervine at the crease. Madhevere had been done in by the short ball, but these two left-handers were perfectly equipped to handle Nepal’s spin. Crucially, they went about neutering Sandeep Lamichhane from the very first over, getting on top of his variations and punishing him whenever he erred in line and length.In the end, the only person discombobulated by Lamichhane’s variety was the bowler himself as he struggled for rhythm. Zimbabwe ensured he registered his second-most expensive figures in ODI cricket, 10-0-77-0, and was wicketless just the third in his career.Kushal Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh added 171 for the first wicket for Nepal•ICC/Getty Images
Williams was instrumental in taking pressure off his captain, happy to take on the role of the aggressor. This reflected in the speed with which he brought up his 34th half-century, taking just 41 balls. By then, the asking rate had been tamed, brought down well below six. Soon after a caress through the covers brought up Ervine’s hundred, and as cries of “captain” broke out from the Harare crowd, their leader saluted them back.Ervine took 111 balls for his hundred, and Williams wouldn’t be content with just a half-century either. He continued accelerating as Zimbabwe turned the chase into a formality, and the only obstacle to his century was that Zimbabwe were running out of runs to chase. But with five runs required, he slashed Gulshan Jha to the wide long-off boundary to level the scores. His hundred came in just 70 balls, and the Castle Corner was only too happy to get on its feet again.Nepal had begun so much brighter than they ended, a sensational 171-run opening stand between Kushal Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh providing the dream platform on a placid pitch to go and push ahead past 300. But when Bhurtel, whose stroke-making all day had been sublime, was cruelly cleaned up by Wellington Masakadza on 99, Nepal’s day turned. Sheikh fell soon after, and Zimbabwe’s fingerspinners sent them back into rebuilding mode.There were cameos, especially from Kushal Malla and captain Rohit Paudel, but Richard Ngarava seared through the middle order with four wickets, and the innings began to peter out. The last five overs saw just 32 runs scored, and when the players went in for lunch, the sense was that Nepal had well and truly lost momentum.In the end, with Williams and Ervine in that kind of form, none of it might have mattered after all. As the players indulged in a lap of honour to thank a crowd that had stayed back to celebrate, this day in Harare truly belonged to Zimbabwe.
USA were in trouble at three wickets down inside two overs, but Anderson and Nitish Kumar took the game away from Canada
ESPNcricinfo staff14-Apr-2024
File pic: Corey Anderson scored his maiden fifty for USA•Ace Images/US Masters T10
Corey Anderson starred with his maiden T20I half-century for USA as they beat Canada by four wickets at Prairie View to complete a 4-0 series win.Anderson and opener Nitish Kumar combined for a 104-run partnership after USA were reduced to 9 for 3 in their chase of 169. Anderson was the anchor, with a 48-ball 55 in his second match for USA. He smacked two sixes and six fours. Nitish was the more aggressive of the two, scoring a 38-ball 64 comprising four sixes and as many fours.Nitish carried on even after Anderson was dismissed by offspinning allrounder Harsh Thaker. Though Nitish and Shadley van Schalkwyk were dismissed in the space of four balls, Harmeet Singh and Nisarg Patel sealed the victory in the final over without much fuss.For Canada, all their batters except opener Srimantha Wijeyeratne got starts, scoring 15 or more, but no one could carry on to make a big score. Three players reached the thirties, and Thaker, who also picked two wickets, finished as their top scorer with a 24-ball 38 that saw him hit three sixes.Canada kept putting up nifty partnerships, not letting USA get wickets in clusters. An unbeaten 39-run stand for the sixth wicket saw Canada go into the innings break with momentum on their side.And that momentum carried into USA’s innings, with Rishiv Joshi trapping Andries Gous lbw second ball. Canada captain Saad Bin Zafar had then sent his opposite number Aaron Jones – the highest run-scorer of the series – packing with the first ball of the second over and then had Gajanand Singh caught behind next ball to find himself on a hat-trick and Canada in a strong position.But ultimately, as has been the case through the series, USA were once again too good for Canada.
Wolverhampton Wanderers extended the gap between themselves and Ipswich Town in 18th place in the Premier League to 12 points with a 1-0 win against West Ham United on Tuesday night.
Jorgen Strand Larsen scored the only goal of the game for the Old Gold in the first half to seal all three points for Vitor Pereira’s side on the night.
The towering striker took the ball under his control brilliantly on the edge of the box to get a strike away with his left foot, going through two West Ham defenders and unsighting Alphonse Areola, who failed to keep it out.
It was an impressive win for Wolves in the absence of star forward Matheus Cunha, who missed out through suspension once again having been sent off against Bournemouth in the FA Cup last month.
Why Matheus Cunha has been so important to Wolves this season
The Brazil international has been an integral member of the squad throughout the 2024/25 campaign due to his brilliance in possession at the top end of the pitch.
Wolverhampton Wanderers' MatheusCunhareacts after the match
Cunha currently leads the team in the Premier League for both goals (13) and ‘big chances’ created (12), which illustrates how important he has been to the side as both a scorer and a creator of goals.
He is a difference-maker in the final third with his lethal finishing, having scored 13 goals from just 6.72 xG, and his ability to create high-quality opportunities for his teammates.
In the 1-0 win over the Hammers, though, another Wolves star showed why he is even more important than Cunha, as Joao Gomes put in a sublime display and even outperformed Strand Larsen.
Wolves star just showed he's more important than Matheus Cunha
Brazilian central midfielder, Gomes, who put pen to paper on a new contract at the Molineux this week, was an integral part of the team’s success on Tuesday night with his exceptional work in and out of possession.
Larsen scored the winning goal and deserves the plaudits that will come his way for that, but the centre-foward also only completed 68% of his attempted passes and lost six of his nine ground duels and three of his five aerial battles.
Gomes, meanwhile, showcased his ability both in and out of possession with his performance against West Ham. He is a player who has the ability to impact matches at both ends of the pitch with his well-rounded midfield play, as he did on Tuesday.
Vs West Ham
Joao Gomes
Minutes
90
Pass accuracy
92% (46/50)
Touches
71
Tackles
3
Interceptions
3
Dribbled past
0x
Stats via Sofascore
As you can see in the table above, the Brazil international was incredibly efficient with the ball at his feet to keep play ticking for his side, whilst also being exceptional defensively.
In fact, his tackling has been pivotal to Wolves throughout the season as he leads the team in tackles won per match (3.1) in the Premier League, which illustrates just how important he has been to the team from a defensive perspective.
Gomes outperformed midfield partner Andre (zero tackles, two interceptions) and outperformed Strand Larsen, by offering quality offensively and defensively, which is also how the midfielder showed that he is even more important than Cunha.
Whilst the former Atletico Madrid forward can make a big difference in the final third, his national and club teammate has an overall impact on the performance with his efficient passing, high usage of touches, and fantastic defensive work.
Wolves need him in their midfield to prevent opposition teams from cutting through their midfield at will, and they need him to dictate the tempo of games with his passing quality to build up play to create chances for the likes of Cunha and Larsen.
Contact made: Wolves in talks with attacking 4-3-3 boss to replace Pereira
Another change in the dugout could be on the cards.
Arsenal’s aim this summer is clear: add more goals to their squad.
Despite being second in the Premier League and through to only the club’s third Champions League semi-final, the Gunners’ lack of goals has unquestionably held them back.
So, do Arsenal lead the race to sign “one of the best wingers on the market”, described as Mikel Arteta’s dream signing?
Arteta's dream attacking signing
According to reports in Spain, via Football365, Arsenal are readying a ‘serious offer’ as they attempt to sign Athletic Club Bilbao forward Nico Williams, whom is believed to be Arteta’s dream target.
The Gunners have a long-standing interest in Williams; alongside Barcelona, they were chasing his signature last season, but the 22-year-old decided to stay at Athletic, aiming to help les Leons win the Europa League at their home stadium San Mamés, on course to achieve this, preparing to face Manchester United in the semi-finals.
Now, Marca are reporting that Barça’s interest in Williams has cooled, partially as a result of their ongoing financial concerns, but also due to the fact that Raphinha has been on fire this season, scoring 28 goals and registering 22 assists across all competitions.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Thus, Aditya Gokhale of Goal believes this leaves Arsenal as the front-runners to sign Williams come the summer, with analyst Ben Mattinson describing him as “one of the best wingers on the market”, while Jacek Kulig of Football Talent Scout labels him “brilliant”.
Athletic Bilbao'sNicoWilliamscelebrates scoring their third goal
Pol Ballús of The Athletic documents that Williams’ release clause is just €55m (around £47m), which he claims to be a ‘bargain’ although, according to Capology, the winger earns around £171k-per-week, so would therefore become one of Arsenal’s highest-earners, should he choose to swap the Basque Country for North London.
How Nico Williams would improve Arsenal
Arteta has previously stated that he wants to add “more firepower” to his forward line, and these statistics underline why.
The Gunners have scored one goal or fewer on 22 occasions this season, doing so in 50% of their 32 league fixtures to date, with the table below showing how this compares to previous campaigns.
Arsenal’s lowest-scoring league seasons (1988-present)
Season
Goals
Goals-per-game
League finish
2024/25*
57
1.78
2nd
2020/21
55
1.45
8th
2019/20
56
1.47
8th
1998/99
59
1.55
2nd
1995/96
49
1.29
5th
1994/95
52
1.23
12th
1993/94
53
1.26
4th
1992/93
40
0.95
10th
1989/90
54
14.2
4th
*season ongoing: 6 fixtures remaining
All statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt
As outlined in the table, since 1988, Arsenal have only failed to score 60+ goals in a league season on eight occasions, primarily enduring miserable mid-table campaigns whenever they do, requiring three goals from their remaining six fixtures this season to avoid adding to this tally.
This is also quite the comedown, considering the Gunners scored 91 goals last season, their most in a single campaign since 1953.
Despite netting at the Bernabéu this week, Gabriel Martinelli is often widely criticised, with this only his eighth goal of the season so far.
Given that Martinelli is first-choice on the left-wing, it is his place Williams would be looking to take in the team, so let’s assess how the duo compare.
Nico Williams vs Gabriel Martinelli 2024/25 comparison
Statistics
Williams
Martinelli
Appearances
42
43
Minutes
2,946
2,905
Goals
11
8
Assists
7
6
Shots on target %
42.2%
45.2%
Shot-creating actions
166
85
Goal-creating actions
20
7
Attempted take-ons
264
137
Take-on success %
40.2%
33.6%
Progressive carries
177
141
Ball recoveries
127
95
Duels Contested
471
306
Touches per 90
41
34
Statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt, FBref.com and Squawka
Remarkably, as outlined in the table, Williams and Martinelli have played almost a near-identical number of minutes this season to date, there are just 41 between them, which is useful when it comes to comparing the duo.
The table suggests that Williams would be an upgrade on the Brazilian, considering that he’s scored more goals and registered more assists this season, while he is also a more proficient dribbler, and is more dangerous in front of goal.
So, if the Gunners are finally going to end their 22-year wait for a Premier League title next season, the Spanish Euros winner would be an excellent addition.
Their own Yamal: Arsenal hold talks for £25m "future Ballon D'or winner"
The simply sensational talent could be a game-changer for Arsenal.
It is remarkable to think that Manchester United’s worst-ever Premier League season could still end in Champions League qualification, with Ruben Amorim having seemingly put all his eggs in the Europa League basket on the evidence of the weekend defeat.
Following on from Thursday’s thriller against Lyon, the Portuguese coach put out a much-changed side for the visit of Wolverhampton Wanderers, having handed a first-team debut to 20-year-old, Tyler Fredricson at centre-back.
While the academy star – alongside teenager, Harry Amass – caught the eye as part of a makeshift back five, it was again the attacking unit that came under fire, with Sunday’s 1-0 loss representing the 13th time this season that United have failed to score in a top-flight game.
With the Red Devils in desperate need of a solution to those attacking woes, it does appear that one of the men who lined up against them at Old Trafford could be on his way to Manchester this summer, with Matheus Cunha seemingly the first concrete target to emerge.
Latest on Man Utd's pursuit of Matheus Cunha
It was reported by The Athletic earlier this month that Amorim’s side are keen on bringing the Brazilian to the Theatre of Dreams in order to bolster one of the two number ten berths, with the former Atletico Madrid man having now scored 14 league goals this season for the Old Gold.
Wolverhampton Wanderers' MatheusCunhareacts
That has since been followed by claims from transfer guru Fabrizio Romano which suggest that United are actually leading the race for the 25-year-old’s signature, with negotiations currently ongoing regarding a potential summer move.
Cunha did only sign a new contract in January, amid interest from the likes of Nottingham Forest at the time, albeit having since outlined his desire to “take the next step” in his career.
A possible exit from Molineux would appear to be on the cards if any interested party opts to trigger his reported £62.5m release clause, with Wolves having originally forked out around £44m to snap the forward up permanently in the summer of 2023.
A major benefit to United would be that Cunha is reportedly still interested in the move even if Champions League qualification is not secured, although he may not be the only Premier League target under consideration at present.
Man Utd seeking Cunha alternatives
It was reported in recent weeks that United view Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo as a potential alternative to Cunha, provided they can’t get a deal done for the Brazil star, with the Cameroonian forward having dazzled for the Bees in recent seasons.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Indeed, that has been followed by more recent claims in Spain, which suggest that INEOS still want to sign the 25-year-old this summer, having ‘set their sights’ on the in-form left-footer.
As per the report, it is claimed that ‘discussions could intensify’ over the next few weeks, with Mbeumo seemingly open to taking on a new challenge after spending the past six years in west London.
Brentford's BryanMbeumocelebrates after the match
In terms, of an asking price, the former Troyes ace could potentially be up for grabs for around £50m-£55m, as per prior claims, with the versatile forward set to enter into the final year of his contract next season – albeit with Thomas Frank’s side holding the option of a 12-month extension.
How Mbeumo compares to Cunha
It is worth stating that either Cunha or Mbeumo would likely represent an upgrade on Amorim’s current attacking options, with Bruno Fernandes currently the top scorer in the league this season for United, with just eight league goals.
Alejandro Garnacho, meanwhile, has scored just five league goals in 2024/25, while Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund have netted just six times between them. Mason Mount, for instance, has scored just one goal in total since signing back in 2023.
That emphasises the need for at least one new recruit this summer, although if it is to come down to either one of Cunha and Mbeumo, it could well be argued that the latter man would be the better signing.
Cunha stats
Indeed, the France-born speedster can operate centrally or on the flanks – like Cunha – thus making him a perfect option for any of the attacking roles in Amorim’s 3-4-3 set-up, with his form this season, in particular, seeing the Bees star emerge as “one of the best players in the Premier League”, according to Sky Sports’ Dan Bardell.
That statement has certainly been justified considering that Mbeumo has even eclipsed Cunha’s return after netting 18 goals in the Premier League in 2024/25 alone. To put that into context, Marcus Rashford has never surpassed 17 top-flight goals in a campaign.
A return of 24 Premier League goal involvements in total follows the winger’s record of 16 and 15 goals and assists across the previous two campaigns, respectively, having now consistently delivered at top-flight level.
As noted in the table below, it is also the Brentford man who appears to provide that greater creative quality, as evidenced by his superior record with regard to big chances created and key passes per game, thus representing a real all-rounder in the forward line.
Cunha vs Mbeumo – 24/25 PL stats
Stat (*per game)
Cunha
Mbeumo
Games (starts)
28 (25)
33 (33)
Goals
14
18
Big chances missed
2
8
Assists
4
6
Big chances created
12
16
Key passes*
1.7
1.9
Pass accuracy*
78%
75%
Balls recovered*
4.1
4.2
Tackles*
1.2
1.2
Interceptions*
0.6
0.4
Stats via Sofascore
While the case of Mount may be something of a concern, it could be argued that United have too often ignored or opted against signing players from within the Premier League, having repeatedly looked to the Eredivisie, for instance, during Erik ten Hag’s time in charge.
Now, under the new INEOS and Amorim regime, things need to be done differently, hence why turning to Mbeumo or Cunha could well be a real masterstroke.
Erik ten Hag
The Wolves star would be a statement signing in his own right, although on current form, might his attacking counterpart be an even better addition?
Amorim must axe Man Utd dud who makes them look like they’re playing with 10
Manchester United fell to yet another Premier League defeat against Wolves this afternoon.
This summer is a huge one for Nottingham Forest if they are to sustain the success they’ve enjoyed throughout the 2024/25 campaign under Nuno Espírito Santo.
The Reds are still in with a huge opportunity to secure Champions League football, whilst also reaching the FA Cup semi-final for the first time since 1991.
Such achievements would’ve been laughed at during the start of the season, especially after the club only just managed to stay in the Premier League in the two previous campaigns.
Nottingham Forest managerNunoEspirito Santo is seen before the match
However, signings are needed in all areas of the pitch to hand Nuno the depth and quality he needs to balance the side in the league and in European competitions next season.
With the transfer window rapidly approaching, numerous names have already appeared on their radar, with multiple being strongly linked with a summer switch to the City Ground.
The latest on Forest’s hunt for new signings this summer
Wolves star Matheus Cunha was Forest’s main target during the January transfer window, with his name remerging as a possible target for the summer market in recent weeks.
However, a deal for the Brazilian now looks unlikely, with the attacker now looking almost certain to move to Manchester United after they held positive talks with his representatives.
Wolverhampton Wanderers' MatheusCunhacelebrates scoring their first goal
Such a move has seen the Reds’ hierarchy shift their attention to other targets, with Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap the latest player they’re targeting, according to Football Insider.
The report claims that he’s seen as an excellent option in forward areas, potentially a cheaper alternative to other targets given his £30m relegation release clause.
It also confirms that Nuno’s side could offer regular minutes in Europe, which could hand them an advantage in the race to land his signature – but will have to work tirelessly given the interest from elsewhere.
Why Forest’s £30m target would be perfect with Gibbs-White
Over the last week or so, Forest fans have all been on edge after journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Manchester City were positive about completing a deal for Morgan Gibbs-White’s signature this summer.
Morgan Gibbs-White for Nottingham Forest.
However, the Reds are said to have placed a £100m price tag on his shoulders, showcasing how highly the club rates the star who cost them £44.5m in the summer of 2022.
Given his tally of 12 combined goals and assists this campaign, it’s no secret that he’s been one of the club’s most important players within attacking areas.
His underlying stats are just as impressive, creating 1.7 chances per 90 this campaign, along with 1.1 successful dribbles per 90 – subsequently able to progress the ball into forward areas.
He’s also completed 80% of the passes he’s attempted, whilst also completing 61% of his long passes – as seen by his extraordinary assist to Callum Hudson-Odoi against Pep Guardiola’s men.
Ipswich Town'sLiamDelapapplauds fans after the match
Such figures could fall perfectly into the hands of Delap next campaign should he complete a switch to the East Midlands, potentially building on his excellent debut year in the Premier League.
He’s managed to achieve 1.2 shots on target per 90, whilst also completing 1.4 successful dribbles – able to play off the shoulder of the backline, handing the Reds an added dimension at the top end of the pitch.
Liam Delap’s stats for Ipswich in the PL (2024/25)
Statistics (per 90)
Tally
Games played
34
Goals scored
12
Shots on target per 90
1.2
Successful dribbles
1.4
Fouls won
1.8
Aerials won
2.1
Duels won
5.5
Stats via FotMob
The 22-year-old has also won 1.8 fouls per game, along with 2.1 aerials won per 90 – handing the club the perfect all-round option in attacking areas to help balance the load between current talisman Chris Wood.
Delap, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by teammate Jens Cajuste, has the ability to progress under Nuno’s guidance, potentially being the club’s main centre forward for many years to come.
His pace and power are a real bonus for the Reds, handing them an option they’ve desperately lacked throughout the majority of the campaign despite their success.
If they are to be in Europe throughout 2025/26, they will need added quality, with Delap certainly providing that – but if they are to secure a deal for his services, they will need to act quickly to avoid losing him to a rival.
Marinakis pushing: £25m+ Nottingham Forest target now keen to complete move
Sheffield United must look back on their end-of-season form in the Championship and curse their luck with four defeats from five league games in April – whilst Burnley and Leeds United went about their own business flawlessly – resigning the Blades to an unwanted playoff spot.
Remarkably, the South Yorkshire outfit hold a dire hoodoo when it comes to the lottery of the playoffs, with United never winning promotion via this wretched knock-out format from eight attempts.
Chris Wilder will hope he can be the boss in the Bramall Lane dug-out to go against this miserable record, knowing full well that every player at his disposal will need to be at the top of their games across the tense playoff encounters to come for Premier League football to return.
Sheffield United stars who will be key in the playoffs
Despite that collapse at the end of the campaign, Wilder’s men did enjoy a largely successful season at this level after relegation, with a bumper 90 points tallied up in total.
The defence definitely shone all season long at Bramall Lane, with Michael Cooper a standout performer throughout the 46-game marathon when amassing 21 clean sheets. If the going gets tough against Bristol City over two legs, the Blades will hope their ex-Plymouth Argyle stopper can come up trumps.
Moreover, Harrison Burrows found himself in the Championship team of the season in the left-back position, and for good reason, with the former Peterborough United ace picking up a healthy five goals and three assists even as a defender. Can he conjure up a moment of quality against the Robins?
Of course, there are faces such as Tyrese Campbell too who has ten league strikes this season, alongside loan star Jesurun Rak-Sakyi on seven.
Chalkboard
Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.
However, there is another favourite among the United fanbase in attack that will be paramount to promotion being sealed, with the explosive forward in question arguably already of a Premier League standard.
The "unbelievable" Blades ace ready for the Premier League
It remains to be seen whether the team’s cream of the crop stick by the club if another playoff slip-up occurs, with Gustavo Hamer already being linked with a switch away, even before a ball has been kicked in the dramatic first leg.
Indeed, the ex-Coventry City midfielder is allegedly on the radar of David Moyes’ Everton, with the Toffees clearly taken aback by the consistent top-drawer displays put in by the 27-year-old in the tough Championship promotion race.
Across this season to date, the Dutchman has picked up a blistering nine goals and seven assists from 41 league encounters, which included a sumptuous free-kick hitting the back of the net back in March to help Wilder’s men down his old employers 3-1.
Hamer has certainly lived up to the shouts that he’s an “unbelievable” talent, as he was lauded by ex-teammate by Oli McBurnie – therefore, with the 27-year-old’s superb attacking exploits not going unnoticed outside of South Yorkshire when he was crowned Championship Player of the Season recently.
Hamer’s record for Sheffield United & Coventry
Season
League
Games
Goals
Assists
24/25
Championship
43
9
7
23/24
Champ/Premier League
38
4
8
22/23
Championship
45
11
10
21/22
Championship
41
3
10
20/21
Championship
44
5
3
Sourced by Transfermarkt
Whilst the table above does further reinforce his reputation as an EFL superstar, it also shows off the Dutchman’s prowess when making the leap up to the top-flight, with Hamer able to pick up a reasonable four goals and seven assists in the elite league during the 2023/24 season, even whilst his team depressingly finished rock bottom of the pile.
Therefore, the United number eight should be ready to jump straight back up to the big time and thrive if given a chance, especially if he is surrounded by some better teammates at Goodison Park than his last venture in the league.
Wilder and Co will just pray that promotion can be reached via the playoffs so Hamer can stay, with his presence in the camp necessary if United want cement themselves as a Premier League capable outfit.
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This former Sheffield United attacker is continuing to look a threat in-front of goal.