All posts by z3u9t.icu

The 14th April 2024 could go down as a poignant one for both Arsenal Football Club and Granit Xhaka.

Both kicking off a 4.30pm, the Gunners had the chance to cement their own title ambitions against Aston Villa.

They had seen fellow challengers Liverpool tast defeat against Crystal Palace just a few hours prior but the form book was ripped up, sending Manchester City top of the pile.

While Arsenal suffered a crippling 2-0 loss to Unai Emery's men, Xhaka was in no mood to be despondent.

Scoring just his second goal in Bayer Leverkusen colours, he helped Xabi Alonso's men to their first-ever Bundesliga title win, smacking Werder Bremen 5-0.

Many questioned the sale of the Swiss, but the midfielder has enjoyed a life of luxury since moving back to Germany, with Leverkusen remarkably unbeaten across all competitions this season.

Granit Xhaka's season in numbers

Xhaka's departure from the Emirates Stadium last summer came as a real shock. The former Gunners man had revived his career in some style, moving from much-hated club captain to a real club icon.

Why? Well, his form as a left-sided 8 under Arteta was nothing short of remarkable in his final term in London.

Surging forward from the centre of the pitch and ghosting into the penalty box like a prime Frank Lampard, the 31-year-old contributed nine goals and seven assists, capturing the hearts of many at Emirates Stadium.

Games

Goals

Assists

Yellow cards

32

2

2

5

38

1

7

10

29

4

2

10

31

1

2

10

31

1

2

7

27

1

2

10

37

7

7

5

This term has been a great deal different for Xhaka. He has found the net twice and only has one assist for his troubles.

That doesn't mean the Bundesliga champion has underperformed though, far from it.

As per FBref, he ranks in the very best 1% of midfielders in Germany's top flight this term for progressive passes, overall passes, passes into the final third, touches, carries and passes received.

He has been a real focal point of Alonso's team, also sitting among the best 11% for shot-creating actions and top 2% for pass completion rate. It's safe to say he's been pretty damn good.

Why did Arsenal let him go, therefore? Well, it was their last chance to cash in and a certain Kai Havertz was right around the corner.

Considering it took him until November to score from open play, there may well be a tinge of regret around Xhaka's departure. He has been nothing short of a sensation in 2023/24.

That said, he isn't the only Bundesliga star the club could look back upon wondering 'what if?'.

Arsenal will regret selling another Bundesliga star

We have to go back further in time for this tale, one which doesn't quite have the same sweet taste as Xhaka's fabled story.

This time, Serge Gnabry is the focus, scorer of a goal at the Emirates Stadium last week in the Champions League.

Most supporters will be familiar with the fact he once played for the Gunners but he remains probably their biggest mistake when it comes to player departures.

The German had made his breakthrough ten years ago, during the 2013/14 campaign, notably scoring his first league goal against Swansea.

However, the young winger at the time didn't sign a new contract and eventually took his leave, departing London for a fee of just £4m, signing for Werder Bremen after only 18 Arsenal appearances.

Speaking about his exit, the now 28-year-old said: "I was still confident I could've got in the team but I didn't want to wait. I didn't want to be fourth or fifth choice any longer. It was the hardest decision I had to make in football, leaving a club like Arsenal – the fans, the players – but to keep playing I had to take a step back and it was the right decision."

What's Gnabry doing now? Well, despite Bayern failing to win the league title for the first time in 11 years, the £310k-per-week earner has still been shining, showing Arsenal what they're missing.

It's been an injury-hit campaign for the Germany international but he's still found the net five times in 17 outings. Last term was far more productive, however, bagging 17 times and assisting 12 strikes. To put those numbers into context, they were both better than Bukayo Saka's tally of 15 goals and 11 assists in 2022/23.

So, even though they've had the Englishman breakthrough with some aplomb, there would surely still be room for Gnabry in a modern-day Arsenal side.

His numbers for Bayern have been extraordinarily consistent. Hailed as "world-class" by writer Cristian Nyari, the 45-cap German has found the net on 86 occasions in 235 matches.

To lose a player who was once valued at over £50m for just £4m will be a sickener. His market value – as per Football Transfers – may have now fallen just £29m after a period on the sidelines, but he is still an exceptional talent. Arsenal must rue not being able to convince him to stay in England, perhaps even more so than a certain Xhaka.

Where Are They Now

Your star player or biggest flop has left the club but what are they doing in the present day? This article is part of Football FanCast's Where Are They Now series.

Chelsea have identified a new problem area, and have shortlisted four players to fill it this summer, according to the latest reports.

Pochettino poses problem

Mauricio Pochettino finally seems to have had enough of being the fall guy at Stamford Bridge, and took aim at his own players after the heavy thrashing by Arsenal in midweek. His side were torn apart 5-0 in the Premier League by the title-challenging Gunners, and the Argentine admitted that his side gave up, having ended the game in a back five with veteran Thiago Silva having to be sent on to stem the tide.

"It's not difficult to explain," said Pochettino after the game. "Everyone saw we didn't compete from the beginning of the game. After we conceded the team was so soft. I'm so disappointed with the start because we're supposed to have full energy and compete better.

"We were talking at half-time to start in a different way. But we did not. When we conceded the third goal the team gave up. It was tough on them. The team showed a lack of capacity to resist – that is what is the problem."

PFA Awards 2024: The favourites to win Young Player of the Year award

FFC takes a look at the six players in the running to win the PFA Young Player of the Year award for the 2023/24 season.

ByLuke Randall Aug 19, 2024

The defeat has led to yet more speculation about the future of the Argentine, who has won just two more games than he has lost in the Premier League this season, and even an unprecedented injury crisis does little to mask his failings to date.

Though Poch is unpopular among the fanbase, he seemingly still has the backing of the board, and they are ready to continue on their march to burn through money in west London, with a winger a priority.

Two set to leave as four targeted

Now, respected Chelsea journalist Simon Phillips has shared his insight into Chelsea's summer planning, and it appears to revolve around the wide areas. Writing on his substack, Phillips reveals that two wingers are free to leave, while the club have identified four potential fresh targets to help get the Blues back on track next season.

Chelsea's wide options

Player

Contract until

Raheem Sterling

2027

Noni Madueke

2030

Mykhailo Mudryk

2031

Omari Hutchinson

2025

On the more audacious end of their transfer planning, one of those that the Blues hold an interest in is West Ham United attacker Jarrod Bowen, who has enjoyed another fine season under David Moyes.

However, that is described as "unlikely", with West Ham set to finish above Chelsea for the second consecutive season and Bowen having penned a new contract earlier in the season tying him to the London Stadium until 2030.

With financial fair play concerns to battle, it seems unlikely Chelsea would be even able to put together an offer West Ham would consider for their talismanic figure.

Meanwhile, they have previously shown an interest in Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise, and triggered his £35m release clause last summer only for the Frenchman to turn them down. 12 months on, it is reported that his release clause now stands at £65m, which has seen the Blues drop their interest in the young star, who himself is keen to move to a Champions League club if he leaves Selhurst Park.

Another player Chelsea have been linked with in recent weeks is Athletic Bilbao's Nico Williams, with the 21-year-old having a £43m release clause in his contract in Spain.

It seems as though once more, the Blues owners are ready to try and spend their way out of trouble this summer.

Manchester United failed to capitalise on their 4-2 victory over Sheffield United on Wednesday, by succumbing to a 1-1 draw against Burnley at Old Trafford in the Premier League.

Both sides had plenty of chances in the first half, with United controlling large amounts of the play, going close a couple of times; Alejandro Garnacho skied a shot over the bar, and Bruno Fernandes rattled the woodwork with a well-struck volley.

The Clarets also enjoyed some sustained periods of possession, although they also failed to capitalise, with Andre Onana making a superb save to deny Lyle Foster.

Erik ten Hag's side broke the deadlock eventually, thanks to Antony’s first Premier League goal of the season, a well-taken finish which he slotted low and hard into the bottom corner. However, just eight minutes later, Burnley drew level from the penalty spot through Zeki Amdouni.

A clumsy header by Casemiro and a foul by Onana gave the Swiss attacker the chance from 12 years, which he took well into the bottom right corner, to earn a crucial point for Burnley.

It was certainly a tough outing for United, although one of their stars in particular had an afternoon to forget at Old Trafford.

Andre Onana’s stats vs Burnley

It was certainly a mixed bag of a performance for United’s number 24 Onana. The aforementioned save to deny Foster was superb and was one of six that he made according to Sofascore, including four from shots inside the box.

However, the Cameroonian’s foul on Amdouni, who converted the penalty moments later, was a clumsy mistake. Granted, he was not helped by Casemiro’s poor clearances, but it was a rashly attempted punch, which was just a flailing of his arms, to give away the foul.

Aside from that, it was a good performance from Onana. Samuel Luckhurst of the Manchester Evening News gave the former Ajax and Inter goalkeeper a 6/10 on his post-match ratings, describing his showing as “a matchwinning performance” up until he gave away the penalty.

As usual, Onana always likes to be involved in the game and had 56 touches altogether, which was only bettered by four United players. The stopper also persisted with the long-ball style of playing out from the back that he has been instructed to play this season.

Onana completed seven long balls, in total completing 30/45 passes. In particular, he found one United teammate four times, which is more than any other player on the pitch managed.

Rasmus Hojlund’s stats vs Burnley

The man in question here is Rasmus Hojlund, who did indeed receive more passes from Onana than any other player, with four, as per Statman Dave on X. The Dane had just 14 touches all game and got no service whatsoever.

It was such a tough afternoon for United’s number 11 that he did not even manage to register a shot on goal, never mind a shot on target. This is perhaps surprising given Fernandes created an incredible nine chances. Hojlund also completed just three out of the six passes he attempted.

Football Insider highlighted Hojlund's lack of service during their post-match ratings, in which the publication gave the Dane a 2/10, saying he was "isolated and starved of service."

It has been a tough period for Hojlund of late, whose goal against Sheffield United last time out was his first since a brace away to Luton on February 18th. Since that game, he is on a run of one goal in ten games for club and country.

That is a run Hojlund will be looking to change a week on Monday, with United’s next game a trip to Crystal Palace. The Red Devils have a tough run of games coming up, and with an FA Cup Final showpiece at the end of the season, are certainly hoping to go on a strong run and gain momentum before the big Manchester Derby showdown at Wembley.

It's been another rough season of Premier League football for Chelsea this year.

Despite spending an egregious sum of money on talented youngsters in the summer and bringing in Mauricio Pochettino to try and get the best out of them, the Blues have struggled to string together a run of positive results and, with five games left to play, it looks unlikely that they'll reach the European places.

That said, at least one positive has come out of this year: Cole Palmer. The young Englishman has been incredible for the West Londoners, and what makes his signing all the more impressive is that he's currently earning less than one of Chelsea's biggest flops in recent years.

Cole Palmer's season in numbers

The Pensioners completed the £42.5m signing of Palmer in September last summer, and while he had looked relatively impressive for City in short cameos, the fact that he had just six goals and two assists in 1481 minutes of senior football for the treble winners made the move a slight gamble.

However, flash forward eight months, and it would be fair to say that the Wythenshawe-born gem has repaid the Blues' gamble, and then some.

In 40 appearances for the two-time European champions, the 21-year-old has scored 23 goals and provided 13 assists, meaning that he is averaging a goal involvement every 1.11 games.

1

Cole Palmer

23

13

2

Nicolas Jackson

13

5

3

Raheem Sterling

8

8

4

Enzo Fernández

7

3

5

Noni Madueke

7

2

Despite being the top goalscorer and assist provider at the club this season, 15 players are currently earning more than his £75k-per-week, and while that might make sense given his inexperience at the start of the season, it makes the wage given to former Chelsea flop Ross Barkley look all the more absurd.

How much Ross Barkley cost Chelsea

The Blues completed the £15m signing of Barkley under Antonio Conte in January 2018, just six months after the player initially turned down a £30m move.

The Englishman arrived at the club having not played for seven months due to a hamstring injury and subsequent surgery, so there was an element of risk in bringing him to West London and handing him a whopping £100k-per-week deal – £15k more than Palmer.

The Liverpool-born midfielder made only four appearances towards the end of the 2017/18 campaign but played 79 games in the subsequent two seasons. In these, he scored ten goals and provided 11 goals, meaning he averaged a goal involvement every 3.7 games.

With his performances and output leaving the club underwhelmed, the former Everton ace was sent on loan to Aston Villa for 2020/21, returning to Stamford Bridge for the following season before his contract was terminated by mutual consent in late August 2022.

Overall, the once-dynamic midfielder made 100 appearances for the Pensioners, scored 12 goals, provided 11 assists, and took home around £20.6m in wages.

Transfer Fee

£15m

Wages (Total)

£100k (£20.6m)

Total Cost

£35.6m

Appearances

100

Cost per Appearance

£356k

Goals

12

Cost per Goal

£2.9m

Assists

11

Cost per Assist

£3.2m

Goal Involvements

23

Cost per Goal Involvements

£1.5m

Therefore, when adding in his £15m transfer fee, the 33-capped international cost the West Londoners £35.6m, which breaks down to £356k-per-appearance, £2.9m-per-goal, or £3.2m-per-assist.

Ultimately, it would be hard to describe Barkley's transfer to Chelsea as anything other than a disaster, but at least the 30-year-old has rebuilt his reputation with Luton Town this season.

Chelsea make approach to sign dream £42m Palmer partner

The Blues are reportedly interested in a summer swoop for the young centre-forward.

ByDan Emery Apr 30, 2024

Glasgow Rangers ran out 5-2 winners over Dundee in an exciting match at Ibrox in their penultimate Scottish Premiership clash of the season on Thursday night.

The Light Blues went into the game knowing that anything other than a win would see their fierce rivals confirmed as league winners.

They, unfortunately, found themselves 2-0 down by the 40th minute of the outing as Dundee struck twice within two minutes.

Philippe Clement's side, however, fought back thanks to goals from Ross McCausland, Cyriel Dessers, Todd Cantwell, and two from Scott Wright.

Whilst Cantwell was the star of the second half comeback but Ross McCausland also caught the eye and both players should now be considered undroppable ahead of the final day and the SFA Cup final later this month.

Todd Cantwell's 9.6/10 Dundee masterclass

The former Norwich City attacking midfielder put on a masterclass in the attacking midfield position on Tuesday night with his sublime attacking play.

He produced a fantastic cross from the left flank to set up Dessers for the equaliser to make it 2-2, with the Nigerian striker able to guide his header into the far bottom corner.

The 26-year-old star then stepped up with a sensational finish – albeit possibly intended as a cross – from the right flank into the far top left corner to make it 3-2 and complete the comeback.

Sofascore rating

9.6

7.06

Goals

1

0.09

Assists

1

0.13

Key passes

6

1.1

Big chances created

2

0.17

As you can see in the table above, Cantwell put on a show at Ibrox with a staggering six key passes and two 'big chances' created to go alongside his goal and assist.

The English star has offered far more than Tom Lawrence usually does in that position, as shown by the statistics in the table, and should now have nailed down his place in the XI moving into the last two matches.

Lawrence has only produced two goals and three assists in 23 Premiership matches across the entire season, and Cantwell racked up almost half as many goal involvements in one match on Tuesday night.

The former Canaries whiz has now scored six goals and provided five assists in 23 league starts for the Light Blues this term, which illustrates how much more he offers than his Welsh teammate at the top end of the pitch.

He had been an unused substitute against Celtic last weekend and just proved that Clement should not drop him again, as the Gers missed his creative presence in their 2-1 defeat at Parkhead.

The Scottish giants only mustered up one shot on target in that narrow loss and the attacking midfielder has proven time and again, including against Dundee, that he has the ability to make things happen in the final third as both a scorer and a creator of goals.

That is why Clement must not drop him down to the bench, barring a fitness issue, in either of the next two matches, and moving into the 2024/25 campaign.

Why 21-year-old Ross McCausland is now undroppable

McCausland should also now be considered undroppable for the Belgian head coach after he popped up with a fantastic performance down the right flank.

Dujon Sterling's absence provided the academy graduate with an opportunity to stake a claim for his place ahead of the final two matches, and for next season, and he grasped it with both hands.

Rangers were in desperate need of a spark after the crowd began to voice their displeasure at being 2-0 down to Dundee in the first half, and the young winger was the man to step up in their time of need.

McCausland showed great invention, determination, and skill to pull one back just before half time as he capitalised on lackadaisical defensive work to steal in and prod the ball into the back of the net after a clever touch around the corner.

The 21-year-old whiz registered an 8.1 Sofascore rating out of 10 for his performance on the night, as he also went on to assist Wright's second with a quick break through the middle and pass to the Scottish forward on the left.

He completed five of his eight attempted dribbles and won seven of his 11 ground duels on the night, which speaks to his exciting and direct play as well as his desire to track back and work hard for the team.

The dynamo, who created two chances for Rangers, got the crowd on their feet with his goal, his dribbles, his assist, and his infectious work rate, which is why he should now be undroppable for Rangers.

Ross McCausland's 23/24 season in numbers

The former B team star has struggled to nail down a regular place in the lineup in the Premiership this season, with only half of his appearances coming as a starter.

He has featured in 28 league matches for the Scottish giants and started 14 of those, which shows that Clement has not yet trusted him to start week-in-week-out yet.

In those 14 starts, the talented speedster has now racked up two goals and four assists for his electric efforts, to go along with 1.4 tackles and interceptions per game.

McCausland has offered glimpses of his quality in possession as a scorer and a creator as well as off the ball with his work rate to track back and cut out opposition attacks.

The Northern Irish wizard, who scored nine goals in 41 B team matches for the academy, needs to play regularly to continue his progress and develop consistency in his game.

It is hard to be a consistent performer if you are not playing consistent minutes, due to the fluctuating game time and situations that the forward has been thrown into, and that is another reason why the manager should make him undroppable over these next two games.

Allowing McCausland to start the last two matches, making it three straight starts in total, would also provide the manager with an insight into how the youngster could cope with being a regular starter next season.

Rangers could seal "superb" signing to be their next Bassey

Philippe Clement will be eyeing a few signings ahead of the summer transfer window opening

ByRoss Kilvington May 13, 2024

This could then, therefore, be an opportunity for the former academy star to put his name forward to be considered a key part of the plans for the 2024/25 campaign and beyond as a starter, rather than as a back-up option.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have a lot to sort out over the next few months. Gary O'Neil deserves all the plaudits for his work at Molineux but a successful campaign fizzled out in the late stages and now it is imperative to move for signings capable of taking the team further next year.

Talks have already been held regarding the signing of Southampton's Che Adams, who is out of contract in one month, while Manchester City and Newcastle United are leading the charge to sign Wolves star Pedro Neto, who is valued at £60m.

Much to do, but O'Neil has proved his credentials and given that the club are already lining up replacements for Neto, should he leave, there's plenty of cause for optimism.

Wolves lining up Neto replacement

According to Spanish outlets AS and Grada1 – via Sport Witness – Wolves are set to tussle with Aston Villa and West Ham United for the signing of Viktor Tsygankov, who has been a key part of Girona's stunning season, qualifying for the Champions League for the first time in their 94-year history (awaiting UEFA clearance due to shared ownership with Manchester City).

The Ukrainian is understood to have a market price of €28m (£24m) and is calmly evaluating his options ahead of the official opening of the transfer window.

How Viktor Tsygankov would fit in at Wolves

Tsykangov, who is 26 years old, has enjoyed something of a nomadic career but has showcased his quality throughout, with analyst Ben Mattinson calling him “seriously talented” at the start of the season and questioning how he is still performing under the radar.

23/24

Girona

29

25

6

6

22/23

Girona

19

17

3

6

22/23

Dynamo Kyiv

13

13

6

5

21/22

Dynamo Kyiv

18

17

11

3

20/21

Dynamo Kyiv

20

15

12

8

19/20

Dynamo Kyiv

27

21

14

5

The in-demand talent has been effective wherever he has played over the past five years, and while he has not been as potent in front of goal for Girona, he's hardly flattering to deceive with his performances, key to the top-four finish in La Liga and hailed for his "outrageous" skills by talent scout Jacek Kulig.

Indeed, as per Sofascore, the right winger has created 11 big chances and completed 83% of his passes in the Spanish top flight this season, averaging one tackle and 3.5 ball recoveries per outing.

Neto, in comparison, chalked up nine assists and created seven big chances in the Premier League, only starting 18 matches during his injury-disrupted season, though it's easy to see that Tsygankov has the core qualities that could make him an excellent replacement.

As per FBref, Tsygankov ranks among the top 19% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for assists and the top 9% for clearances per 90, denoting his impressive mix of creative and industrious defensive attributes.

The £23k-per-week ace would be a worthy successor to a dynamic winger like Neto in this regard, who has been praised for his "absolutely incredible" technical ability by his manager but has also averaged four ball recoveries and 3.5 successful duels per game in the Premier League this term, highlighting his energy and tenacity.

Wolves may already have a perfect Kilman heir in "versatile" academy gem

Gary O’Neil’s star defender is attracting interest from a Premier League rival.

ByAngus Sinclair May 24, 2024

If O'Neil's Portuguese maverick is sold, Wolves will have a bit of a war chest to bolster the squad across a number of areas, and Tsygankov would be the perfect man to take his place on the flank.

After already sealing deals for Jefte and Oscar Cortes this summer, Rangers have reportedly turned their attention to landing Phillippe Clement's third arrival of the transfer window.

Rangers transfer news

The Gers recently confirmed the arrival of Cortes on another year-long loan deal with an obligation to buy from Lens. The winger initially enjoyed a solid start to life at Ibrox in his first spell, before injury ended things before he had the chance to really find his feet in Scotland. There were seemingly enough positive signs before that knock, however, with Clement welcoming him back for another campaign.

Speaking to the official Rangers website, Cortes expressed his delight over the move, saying: “I am delighted to be able to stay at Rangers.

"It was an honour and privilege for me to join the club in January and I was enjoying my football under the manager and playing alongside my team-mates. Sadly, the injury ended my season early, but I have been working hard and I am excited to help the team and play in front of the wonderful fans again soon.”

Clement could sign his own Aaron Ramsey in early Rangers swoop

The Light Blues have been linked with an interest in the England international.

ByDan Emery Jun 4, 2024

Now, however, the Gers have turned their attention towards a third arrival. According to The Scotsman, Rangers are now very likely to sign Liam Kelly on a free deal upon the expiry of his Motherwell contract. With talks already held, Clement looks set to receive an instant replacement for Jon McLaughlin, who left Ibrox as a free agent at the end of the season.

The move will be a full circle moment for Kelly, who left Rangers in 2018 and now seems on course to finally make his return as many as six years later.

"Terrific" Kelly can take McLaughlin role

Whilst Jack Butland remains Clement's clear number one at Rangers, Kelly can arrive to take McLaughlin's number two role to provide sufficient backup for the former Stoke City goalkeeper throughout what is always an action-packed campaign. At 28 years old and with experience in the Championship as well as plenty in Scotland, Kelly certainly represents a reliable second choice too, especially given the praise of Motherwell boss Stuart Kettlewell.

Kettlewell said via BBC Sport: "I can assure you there's no-one who dissects anything more than Liam. If he feels he's culpable for a goal or a situation in a game, he's the first person to hold his hand up. He's not scared to take blame for anything and I really enjoy his integrity. He's a terrific influence on everyone else around him."

With Jefte, Cortes and now reportedly likely Kelly through the door already this summer, Rangers' summer overhaul is certainly going to plan, making the departures of the likes of McLaughlin, Borna Barisic and Kemar Roofe seem like yesterday's news. With Clement making his mark, the Gers could make more additions over the coming months.

Everton will desperately want to build on the 15th-placed finish in the Premier League this season, with the club needing to dip into the market to improve Sean Dyche’s squad.

The Toffees managed to string together a great end to the campaign, winning five of the last eight matches to secure another season of top-flight football, despite receiving multiple points deductions during the 2023/24.

However, over the course of the season, the club’s biggest issue on the field was highlighted, with the lack of goals evident during the 38 league matches in the campaign.

Dyche’s side only managed to score two or more goals in a game on ten occasions, accumulating a tally of just 40 goals – an average of just 1.05 goals per game, the second-lowest in the division.

Only two players within the squad managed to score more than five goals, with Beto failing to reach such heights despite his £25m move to Goodison from Udinese before the start of the campaign.

However, his side are already targeting attacking options ahead of the summer window, including one player who could prove to be excellent value for money.

Everton interested in signing talented free agent

According to journalist Graeme Bailey, Everton are interested in signing Fulham attacker Bobby Decordova-Reid during the summer transfer window.

The 31-year-old Jamaican forward is out of contract at the end of the month and has been offered a new deal at Craven Cottage, but Dyche’s side could offer him a longer-term contract to tempt him into swapping London for Merseyside.

He featured 33 times in the Premier League during 2023/24, scoring six times, the third most of any player within Marco Silva’s squad.

The report goes on to state that Leeds United are also in the race for his signature, but, undoubtedly, the Toffees have the advantage over Daniel Farke’s side given their Premier League status.

Decordova-Reid, formerly of Bristol City and Cardiff City, is a versatile option who is capable of playing on either side of midfield, as a central striker or even as a right-back, potentially allowing the club to forget about loanee Jack Harrison.

How Decordova-Reid compares to Harrison

During the 2023/24 campaign, Harrison joined Dyche’s side on a temporary basis after Leeds’ relegation back to England’s second tier.

The 27-year-old Englishman featured 29 times for the Toffees in the Premier League, scoring just three goals in an all-round disappointing season for the forward.

However, upon the expiry of his loan move on Merseyside, rumours were linking Harrison with a return to Goodison, following his parent club’s failure to return to the Premier League following the play-off final defeat against Southampton.

Despite the interest, Everton can forget about re-signing the English forward, and pursue a move for Decordova-Reid, who would prove to be an upgrade on the former Toffees loanee.

In the Premier League, the “immense” talent, as dubbed by former boss Scott Parker, has dominated the one-time Everton loanee in all attacking aspects – potentially a huge benefit given the Toffees' lack of goals this season.

Decordova-Reid has contributed with more combined goals and assists, with his tally of 2.1 shots per game nearly double that of Harrison in 2023/24.

Games

33

29

Goals + Assists

8

6

Goals + Assists per 90

0.5

0.2

Shots per 90

2.1

1.4

Pass accuracy

75%

65%

Aerial duels won

35%

34%

He’s also completed 75% of his passes, 10% higher than Harrison and also winning more aerial duels per 90, demonstrating his qualities with his feet and in the air.

The potential to get the Jamaican on a free transfer would be excellent business, with Dyche able to dramatically improve his forward options whilst complying with the league’s PSR rules.

Everton eyeing 6ft 6 "revelation" who'd be a monster Branthwaite partner

He’s enjoyed a remarkable campaign during 2023/24.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 6, 2024

Albanian football has a long history, characterised by players who have had a big influence both domestically and internationally. From legendary figures who paved the way for future generations, to modern stars shining in Europe’s top leagues, these players have brought pride to Albania.

They made history fairly recently by earning a spot in their first major European Championship in 2016. Their victory over Romania demonstrated their potential on Europe’s biggest stage, even though they were unable to advance to the knockout stages.

Furthermore, Albania has a long history of competition in south-eastern European football, as seen by its victories in events such as the Balkan Cup in 1946 and the 2000 Malta International Tournament.

They returned to major tournament football at Euro 2024, but could not avoid another group stage exit.

With that, here is the list of what we believe are the ten greatest Albanian footballers…

1

Panajot Pano

1957-1975

2

Erjon Bogdani

1994-2013

3

Lorik Cana

2000-2016

4

Loro Borici

1937-1957

5

Elseid Hysaj

2011-present

6

Thomas Strakosha

2015-present

7

Ervin Skela

1992-2018

8

Altin Lala

1994-2012

9

Rudi Vata

1988-2005

10

Ilir Pernaska

1967-1981

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ByCharlie Smith Jun 9, 2024 10 Ilir Pernaska 1967-1981

Famous in Albanian football circles, Ilir Pernaska played in midfield for Dinamo Tirana and the national team, mainly in the 1960s and 1970s, and made a big impact. Known for his outstanding midfield skills, Pernaska was a master at playmaking. His time with KF Tirana was distinguished by his leadership on and off the field, which was instrumental in helping the team win multiple national league championships.

On the international stage, he made 15 appearances for Albania and returned a healthy record of five goals.

International caps

15

International goals

5

Clubs played for

Dinamo Tirana

9 Rudi Vata 1988-2005

One of the most well-known Albanian players to play overseas in the 1990s was Rudi Vata, a name synonymous with greatness in Albanian football, who had a stellar career both locally and abroad.

Vata travelled from Albania to a number of European clubs, the most notable of which was Celtic in Scotland, where his commitment, adaptability, and defensive skill won him over many supporters, as he won one Scottish Cup during his time in Glasgow.

He also enjoyed an equally illustrious international career with the Albanian national team. With 58 caps, he proudly represented his nation, emerging as a crucial member of Albania’s defence in the 1990s.

International caps

58

International goals

5

Clubs played for

Energie Cottbus, Apollon Limassol, Celtic, +9 others

8 Altin Lala 1994-2012

Respected in Albanian football, Altin Lala is best known for his lengthy and illustrious career with Hannover 96 in Germany, where he established himself as one of the team’s most recognisable players. Lala ended up making 320 appearances during his time at Hannover.

In addition to his club career, Lala was a mainstay of the Albanian national team, captaining the group and collecting 79 caps.

International caps

79

International goals

3

Clubs played for

Hannover 96, Borussia Fulda

7 Ervin Skela 1992-2018

Ervin Skela, who was renowned for his inventiveness and technical prowess in midfield, made a big impact on clubs around Europe as well as the Albanian national team.

Highlights of Skela’s career included playing in Germany for teams like Energie Cottbus and Eintracht Frankfurt, where he was praised for his ability to score from midfield. He scored 21 goals and laid on 29 assists in the Bundesliga.

He also represented Albania internationally, amassing 75 caps while contributing 13 goals and playing a pivotal role in numerous qualification campaigns.

International caps

75

International goals

13

Clubs played for

Eintracht Frankfurt, Energie Cottbus, FC Hanau 93, +12 others

6 Thomas Strakosha 2015-present

Thomas Strakosha is a gifted goalkeeper who has carried on his father’s legacy, as the son of Foto Strakosha. He joined Lazio in 2012 and has since established a reputation for having quick reflexes and strong shot-blocking, helping Lazio win the Coppa Italia in 2019.

Since then, he’s secured a move to the Premier League with west London club Brentford, but has only managed to make a couple of appearances for the Bees. Regardless, he has still managed to make 28 appearances for his country as their No 1.

At just 29 years of age, he still has a large part of his career ahead of him. Despite this, he has already managed to achieve many things, including two Coppa Italias, two Italian Super Cups, one Italian Youth Championship and one Coppa Italia Primavera title.

International caps

28

International goals

0

Clubs played for

Lazio, Salernitana, Brentford

5 Elseid Hysaj 2011-present

Elseid Hysaj is a well-known player in modern Albanian football who has established himself as a dependable and adaptable defender in some of the continent’s best leagues.

His career took off while at Empoli in Italy, and in 2015, he secured a move to Napoli as a result of his performances there. The 30-year-old established himself as a pillar of the Partenopei defence, renowned for his versatility and ability to cover all defensive positions.

In both Napoli’s Serie A campaigns and their European adventures during his time there, his efforts were vital, as well as helping them secure an Italian Cup. The defender later sought a move to Lazio in 2021, where he currently plays his football.

Since making his debut for the Albanian national team in 2013, Hysaj has been a vital member of the squad. He has more than 80 caps, taking part in prestigious competitions such as Euro 2016, where Albania made their competition debut.

International caps

83

International goals

2

Clubs played for

Empoli, Napoli, Lazio

4 Loro Borici 1937-1957

Legendary Albanian footballer Loro Boriçi made a lasting impression as a coach and player. He was a key player for Partizani Tirana and the Albanian national team in the 1940s and 1950s. He also captained Albania and was well-known for his midfield brilliance on the field, as well as making a huge contribution to the growth of football in the nation.

Following his retirement, Boriçi enjoyed great success as a coach, implementing an emphasis on talent, discipline and tactical awareness while managing the Albanian national team as well as others, including Vllaznia Shkoder.

Interestingly, a stadium in Shkoder which was previously named Vojo Kushi, took Borici’s name in his memory.

International caps

23

International goals

6

Clubs played for

Vllaznia Shkoder, Lazio, Partizani Tirana, Spartak Tirana

3 Lorik Cana 2000-2016

Lorik Cana was one of the most recognisable players in Albanian football, operating as a defensive midfielder. He took absolutely no prisoners as a no-nonsense player who loved to fly into tackles and protect the defence.

The 40-year-old started his professional career at FC Dardania Lausanne II before moving to Paris Saint-Germain in France, where he soon started to establish himself. Throughout his career, he played in several of the best European leagues, spending time with Lazio in Italy, Galatasaray in Turkey, Marseille in France, and Sunderland in the English Premier League.

He made more than 90 caps for the Albanian national side, captaining the team and setting an exemplary example on and off the field. He was another of those players involved in Albania’s historic qualification for Euro 2016.

Despite retiring, Cana is adored by supporters, a hero to young athletes and a source of pride for Albanian football.

International caps

92

International goals

1

Clubs played for

PSG, Marseille, Sunderland, Galatasaray, Lazio, Nantes

2 Erjon Bogdani 1994-2013

One of the most prolific scorers in Albanian football is Erjon Bogdani, a name that is practically synonymous with the sport in Albania. Throughout his career, he played in various top European leagues, spending a long period of time in Italy with teams like Reggina, Verona and Siena, among others. He made 397 appearances at club level, scoring 79 times for nine different clubs in total.

Bogdani was a vital member of the Albanian national team, setting a record with 18 goals to become the all-time top scorer. Over the course of his distinguished career, which spanned more than a decade and included multiple World Cup and European Championship qualifiers, he earned 75 caps while representing Albania.

International caps

75

International goals

18

Clubs played for

Siena, Partizani Tirana, Chievo, +7 others

1 Panajot Pano 1957-1975

Celebrated as Albania’s Golden Player, Panajot Pano is a legendary figure in Albanian football, known for his technical talent and goalscoring exploits during his prime years with Partizani Tirana. Pano established himself as a pivotal character in the history of the club by leading them to multiple league titles while dominating the Albanian Superliga in the 1960s and 1970s.

He then demonstrated his abilities at international level by scoring four goals and earning 28 caps for Albania. This led to the President of Albania honoring him with the Honor of the Nation Order in recognition of his remarkable achievements in football. He was also honoured as Albania’s Golden Player at the UEFA Jubilee Awards, recognising him as the greatest player in the nation’s football history for the previous fifty years.

International caps

28

International goals

4

Clubs played for

KF Tirana, Partizani Tirana

Aston Villa are certainly acting fast with regard to doing the majority of their business before pre-season starts.

Unai Emery is on the verge of selling Douglas Luiz to Juventus, with an agreement in place that will see Enzo Barrenechea and Samuel Iling-Junior move in the opposite direction as part of the deal with the Italian side.

Furthermore, Villa are also close to selling youth prospect Omari Kellyman to Chelsea, while another exciting talent, Tim Iroegbunam, has moved to Everton.

Of course, the club have been forced to sell players before the end of the month in order to comply with financial fair play regulations, plus the money raised from sales will allow Emery to sign a few players this summer.

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The Spaniard is showing interest in a few new additions to his squad in order to bolster his midfield options.

Aston Villa close to signing another midfielder

Although there have been a few players moving on, Emery is close to sealing a deal to sign Ross Barkley.

That’s according to Fabrizio Romano, who said on X: “Aston Villa are prepared to enter into formal stages of Ross Barkley deal after agreement with Luton Town.

“Fee around £5m, contract details already agreed and now waiting on medical.”

This could be a smart piece of transfer business by Emery. Barkley knows the Premier League well, has played for Villa before and for such a bargain price, could add some much-needed depth to the squad ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.

If the club do sign the Luton man, he could follow another midfielder to Villa Park…

Aston Villa's other midfield targets

According to the Express, Villa are eyeing up a move for a Real Sociedad midfielder, Brais Mendez, as Emery seeks to improve his options in the middle of the pitch.

They have reportedly made contact with his entourage ahead of making a swoop, but they face some serious competition to secure his signature.

Manchester United are keen along with Serie A sides Juventus and AS Roma, meaning the playmaker has no shortage of options should he wish to leave Sociedad this summer.

Mendez has a release clause of £52m and this would break Villa’s transfer record for a player, overtaking the £51.9m they splashed on Moussa Diaby last term.

With the 27-year-old at the peak of his powers, Emery could strengthen his side by signing the player, especially with Champions League football on the horizon.

Moussa Diaby

£52m

Bayer Leverkusen

Emilano Buendia

£38m

Norwich City

Pau Torres

£33m

Villarreal

Leon Bailey

£30m

Bayer Leverkusen

Ollie Watkins

£28m

Brentford

How Brais Mendez compares to Ross Barkley

Aged 29, Barkley is certainly nearer the end of his career rather than the beginning. Might the capture of Mendez prove to be a better deal for Villa in the long run? Indeed, the Spaniard enjoyed a more productive season during 2023/24, especially in front of goal.

The Sociedad gem thrives either as a number ten or out wide, where he can showcase his excellent attacking abilities, whereas Barkley tended to occupy a deeper position, either in the heart of the midfield or just in front of the defence for Luton Town last term. That said, he first started out as an energetic attacking midfielder with an eye for goal.

The Englishman still managed to record five goals and six assists across all competitions in what was a solid season for the Hatters, thus earning a move to Villa Park, but Mendez enjoyed a far more fruitful season in the final third.

In 44 matches for Sociedad, Mendez scored eight goals while registering nine assists, which included four goal contributions in the Champions League against the likes of Inter Milan and Benfica, demonstrating how effective he can be in Europe’s premier club competition.

Brais can count the likes of key passes, direct free-kicks and through balls as major strengths according to WhoScored, while Barkley can count aerial duels, concentration and dribbling as his, which suggests the pair offer different sets of skills.

With the likes of Boubacar Kamara, John McGinn and Youri Tielemans all slotting into the heart of the midfield, Emery is clearly well-endowed in this area.

With regard to a proper number ten, however, Mendez could fit into this slot with ease and become one of Emery’s finest signings this summer.

Brais Mendez’s season in numbers for Sociedad

Mendez has been wonderful in front of goal, but he also offers many more qualities going forward.

Among his teammates, Mendez ranked first for shots on goal (2.1) in La Liga last season, while also ranking second for big chances created (nine), second for key passes per game (1.3) and sixth for successful dribbles per game (0.8), again, evidence of his tremendous attacking capabilities which could serve Villa well next term.

It wasn’t just among his own squad that the midfielder sparkled either. Indeed, when compared to his positional peers in Europe’s top five leagues, Mendez currently ranks in the top 3% for non-penalty goals per 90 (0.25), the top 10% for assists per 90 (0.21) and in the top 2% for total shots per 90 (2.42), proving he was one of the best in his position across these three attacking metrics.

Emery has had plenty of success at recruiting from Spain. Alex Moreno has been a solid option at left-back since January 2023, while Pau Torres acquainted himself well with the Premier League during his debut season, winning over half of his total duels and finishing the campaign with an 88% pass success rate.

Mendez – lauded as a “smooth operator” by journalist Zach Lowy – could become the latest Spanish talent to move to the Midlands and make a name for himself in the English top flight.

£52m is certainly a lot of money, but if the manager is serious about continuing Villa’s progression in the Premier League, plus being competitive in the Champions League, then investment is vital.

It might not work out, but given how well he has done in Spain over the previous 12 months, it looks as though Mendez could thrive in England, improving even more as a player under the watchful eye of Emery.

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