The transfer window is a time of hope and excitement. A time to make transformative additions tha...

<p><em>The transfer window is a time of hope and excitement. A time to make transformative additions that can revive a struggling team or put trophy-chasing sides over the top. It's also a time where expensive, crippling mistakes are made. For every brilliant deal and shrewd piece of business, there are dozens of signings that, for one reason or another, go bust. Some of them in spectacular fashion. </em></p><p><em>This week, while the wheeling and dealing is in full swing, we're ranking the 30 worst signings in soccer history. Compiled by theScore's soccer editors, our list features prototypical high-priced flops along with some of the more mystifying moves that ruined careers, damaged reputations, and set clubs back several years. The three-part series kicks off below.</em></p><p><strong>Follow the entire series this week</strong>:</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Jan. 20</th>
<th>Jan. 22</th>
<th>Jan. 24</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>30-21</strong></td>
<td>20-11</td>
<td>10-1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><h3>30. Leonardo Bonucci (AC Milan)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764814/cropped_GettyImages-839929318.jpg?ts=1736625653" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764814/w220xh124_GettyImages-839929318.jpg?ts=1736625653 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764814/w320xh180_GettyImages-839929318.jpg?ts=1736625653 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764814/w640xh360_GettyImages-839929318.jpg?ts=1736625653 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764814/w768xh432_GettyImages-839929318.jpg?ts=1736625653 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764814/w1080xh607_GettyImages-839929318.jpg?ts=1736625653 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Claudio Villa. / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em><strong>Signed from Juventus for €42 million in 2017</strong></em></p><p>AC Milan made Bonucci the centerpiece of their rebuilding project in 2017, handing him the captaincy shortly after signing him. Bonucci was a shell of the defender that co-anchored Juventus' defense and admitted he only left Juventus out of anger. It was largely because of his acrimonious exit that he had no problem celebrating a goal against his former team that season, something many Juventus supporters still haven't forgiven or forgotten. But by 2018, the Rossoneri no longer wanted Bonucci and sent him back to Juve for €35 million. The fact they recouped the majority of their initial investment is the only reason he isn't higher on this list. <em>- Anthony Lopopolo</em></p><h3>29. Kevin Davies (Blackburn Rovers)</h3><p><em><strong>Signed from Southampton for £7.25 million in 1998</strong></em></p><p>Davies reportedly cost 10 times more than Southampton paid for him just one year earlier - and the <a href="https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/6152356.rovers-blackburn-get-davies-knockdown-7-25m/">Lancashire Telegraph</a> still described what Blackburn Rovers stumped up as a "knockdown price." It's safe to say they didn't get much of a return on the bustling forward. He lasted one season, scored once in 21 appearances as the club was relegated from the Premier League, and was sent back to Southampton in exchange for Egil Ostenstad. Blackburn's failings with Davies were highlighted years later when he enjoyed a fruitful decade-long spell with Bolton Wanderers. - <em>Daniel Rouse</em></p><h3>28. Malcom (Barcelona)</h3><p><em><strong>Signed from Bordeaux for initial €41 million in 2018</strong></em></p><p>The hype over Malcom was intense the summer he chose to join Barcelona. He initially had an agreement to play for Roma but ultimately couldn't resist the chance to join Lionel Messi's team. A year later, after a horrific debut season, the Brazilian's exit was a relief for both sides. A lack of trust from then Barca coach Ernesto Valverde saw Malcom end the season with four goals in 24 games. The winger's poor campaign earned him a move to Russia, where he failed to salvage a career that was already in tatters by the time he was 22. - <em>Gordon Brunt</em></p><h3>27. Jonathan Woodgate (Real Madrid)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764813/cropped_GettyImages-51429346.jpg?ts=1736625429" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764813/w220xh124_GettyImages-51429346.jpg?ts=1736625429 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764813/w320xh180_GettyImages-51429346.jpg?ts=1736625429 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764813/w640xh360_GettyImages-51429346.jpg?ts=1736625429 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764813/w768xh432_GettyImages-51429346.jpg?ts=1736625429 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764813/w1080xh607_GettyImages-51429346.jpg?ts=1736625429 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Denis Doyle / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em><strong>Signed from Newcastle United for £13.4 million in 2004</strong></em></p><p>Woodgate joined fellow Englishmen David Beckham and Michael Owen in the Spanish capital, prompting <a href="http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/europe/3580578.stm">BBC Sport</a> to run a story with the headline "Real invest in British steel." Woodgate's apparent steeliness was found wanting as he waited over a year for his debut due to fitness issues, and when his introduction finally came, he managed to score an own goal and get sent off. He was back in England a year later. The center-back's disastrous Real Madrid debut defined a playing career that could've been so much better without his persistent injury problems. - <em>Rouse</em></p><h3>26. Kalvin Phillips (Manchester City)</h3><p><em><strong>Signed from Leeds United for initial £42 million in 2022</strong></em></p><p>Roque Santa Cruz, Eliaquim Mangala, and Claudio Bravo are among many duds that Manchester City have signed since the 2008 takeover, but the acquisition of Phillips was both terrible business and ruinous for the player. Being in a team that hogged possession didn't suit the former Leeds favorite, and the injury-prone midfielder's confidence plummeted when Pep Guardiola publicly accused him of being overweight. Phillips started two Premier League matches in 18 months for City, had an error-strewn loan stay at West Ham United, and is now trying to rebuild his career on loan at Ipswich Town. - <em>Rouse</em></p><h3>25. Alexis Sanchez (Manchester United)</h3><p><em><strong>Henrikh Mkhitaryan sent to Arsenal in swap deal in 2018</strong></em></p><p>Sanchez wanted to leave Manchester United after just one training session. He famously asked his people if he could "rip up" his contract and return to Arsenal, and of course, they laughed. Manchester United had already sent Henrikh Mkhitaryan the other way and committed to paying Sanchez an enormous salary worth around £350,000 per week. But his gut was telling him the right thing. The next year and a half was miserable. Sanchez scored just three Premier League goals in 32 appearances for United and ended up leaving for Inter on a free transfer. <em>- Lopopolo</em></p><h3>24. Winston Bogarde (Chelsea)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764811/cropped_GettyImages-1089635.jpg?ts=1736625247" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764811/w220xh124_GettyImages-1089635.jpg?ts=1736625247 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764811/w320xh180_GettyImages-1089635.jpg?ts=1736625247 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764811/w640xh360_GettyImages-1089635.jpg?ts=1736625247 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764811/w768xh432_GettyImages-1089635.jpg?ts=1736625247 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764811/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1089635.jpg?ts=1736625247 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Clive Brunskill / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em><strong>Signed on free transfer from Barcelona in 2000</strong></em></p><p>Bogarde committed career suicide at 29. The English media accused him of kicking back and letting £40,000 per week - a huge wage at the time - roll into his bank account during his final four years as a pro. However, the Dutchman has since <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/mar/27/winston-bogarde-chelsea-interview">blamed</a> his inactivity on Chelsea's insistence that clubs pay his <em>full</em> salary to sign him on loan. No one did, and the Blues' stubbornness was peculiar during a financially unstable period for the club. Bogarde played 11 times in his first campaign and appeared just once as a substitute over the three seasons that followed. - <em>Rouse</em></p><h3>23. Jordan Henderson (Al-Ettifaq)</h3><p><em><strong>Signed from Liverpool for £12 million in 2023</strong></em></p><p>In under six months, Henderson destroyed his reputation and harmed Saudi Arabia's expensive mission to make its league respected across the globe. Henderson, previously a vocal advocate of the LGBTQ+ community, was slammed for chasing the money to a Middle East nation where same-sex sexual activity is illegal. England fans jeered the midfielder, believing he didn't merit national team selection while playing in a weaker league. Henderson's miserable 19-game spell in Saudi Arabia also shed light on the oil-rich state having a weak appetite for the sport, with crowds not reaching 1,000 for some Al-Ettifaq games. It was a terrible transfer all around. - <em>Rouse</em></p><h3>22. Mario Gotze (Bayern Munich)</h3><p><em><strong>Signed from Borussia Dortmund for €37 million in 2013</strong></em></p><p>Gotze was on top of the world in the summer of 2014. Germany was a World Cup champion again thanks to his dramatic title-winning goal in the final in Brazil. All that was left was to repair his domestic reputation. The summer before, Gotze was one of the most sought-after midfielders, and he eventually decided to take the well-trodden path from Borussia Dortmund to Bayern Munich. However, unlike those before him, Gotze didn't enjoy success. His development stunted under Guardiola's guidance, and he ended up re-joining Dortmund. But the damage was done. Gotze has never been the same. - <em>Brunt</em></p><h3>21. Fernando Torres (Chelsea)</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764810/cropped_GettyImages-108663979.jpg?ts=1736624952" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764810/w220xh124_GettyImages-108663979.jpg?ts=1736624952 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764810/w320xh180_GettyImages-108663979.jpg?ts=1736624952 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764810/w640xh360_GettyImages-108663979.jpg?ts=1736624952 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764810/w768xh432_GettyImages-108663979.jpg?ts=1736624952 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/764810/w1080xh607_GettyImages-108663979.jpg?ts=1736624952 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Darren Walsh / Chelsea FC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><em><strong>Signed from Liverpool for £50 million in 2011</strong></em></p><p>It was awful from the beginning. Months went by before Torres scored his first goal after his shock move from Liverpool to Chelsea. The 14-game drought was initially viewed as a blip on the radar, but the worst was yet to come. Torres suffered long periods without a goal during crucial stretches over the next two seasons while producing some truly bizarre misses along the way. The once-revered forward was broken. He etched his name in Chelsea lore with a dramatic Champions League semifinal goal in 2012, but it wasn't enough to gloss over how much of a letdown he ultimately was at Stamford Bridge. - <em>Brunt</em></p><p><strong><em>The rollout continues Wednesday with Nos. 20-11.</em></strong></p>

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Ranking the 30 worst transfers in soccer history (Part 1)

Following every weekend of Premier League action, theScore examines the most important developmen...

<p><em>Following every weekend of Premier League action, theScore examines the most important developments and biggest talking points to emerge from the slate of matches. Below, we dissect Matchweek 22 of the 2024-25 season.</em></p><h3>Reinforcements won't help Arsenal</h3><p>An Arsenal win seemed like the only possible outcome at the Emirates Stadium at halftime. After they cruised to a 2-0 lead, nobody expected the conversation after the game to focus on Arsenal falling out of the title race again, or their shortcomings in the transfer market last summer. But, hours after leaders Liverpool turned a draw into a win with a last-second goal, Arsenal went the opposite direction.</p><p>The dent Arsenal made in Liverpool's lead after their midweek north London derby win disappeared after a disastrous eight-minute spell cost them two valuable points. After the 2-2 draw, Mikel Arteta spoke enviously of Liverpool's depth after saying Arsenal are actively looking to improve in January. But after failing to keep up with the Premier League leaders this weekend, it's likely too late for reinforcements to impact the title race; Arsenal sit six points back of Liverpool, who have a game in hand.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">How costly will it prove to be for Arsenal in May? 🤔<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MOTD?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MOTD</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBCFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBCFootball</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ARSAVL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ARSAVL</a> <a href="https://t.co/HEbfMoYY4P">pic.twitter.com/HEbfMoYY4P</a></p>— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) <a href="https://twitter.com/BBCMOTD/status/1880751364588114239?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Arteta complained about a lack of attacking options off the bench. Unlike Liverpool, he didn't have a Darwin Nunez to turn to late when Arsenal needed a goal. It's been an area of concern most of the season, as Raheem Sterling was the only senior attacking option available after Gabriel Jesus' season-ending injury. But even before things went downhill, it was glaringly obvious Arsenal were paying the price for neglecting other areas that should've been addressed last summer.</p><p>Their depth was tested earlier this season when multiple stars were sidelined with injuries. Suspensions were also an issue, with William Saliba missing a defeat to Newcastle United due to a ban in November. That was around the time Arsenal ruled themselves out of a league title. Liverpool were just too good at the time for the Gunners to slip in such a manner.</p><p>The situation is more dire now. A worrying injury for Saliba makes matters worse.</p><p>Saturday's game offered a glimpse of what life would look like without the French center-back. And it isn't pretty. Thomas Partey was moved from midfield to right-back, while Jurrien Timber assumed center-back responsibilities. There was hardly anything to complain about until Aston Villa's two quick goals put a spotlight on Arsenal's patchwork squad.</p><p>Partey became a liability, losing sight of his marker, Ollie Watkins, whose volley brought Villa level. Arsenal squandered chances to win late - and had an injury-time goal chalked off by VAR - reigniting calls to sign a striker. But even adding a forward, midfielder, and defender at this point wouldn't be enough to reverse Arsenal's fortunes in what's becoming another lost season.</p><h3>Quick free-kicks 📝</h3><p><strong>Don't overlook TAA's part in big Liverpool win</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766041/cropped_GettyImages-2193926833.jpg?ts=1737223349" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766041/w220xh124_GettyImages-2193926833.jpg?ts=1737223349 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766041/w320xh180_GettyImages-2193926833.jpg?ts=1737223349 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766041/w640xh360_GettyImages-2193926833.jpg?ts=1737223349 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766041/w768xh432_GettyImages-2193926833.jpg?ts=1737223349 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766041/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2193926833.jpg?ts=1737223349 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">JUSTIN TALLIS / AFP / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Nunez's super-sub appearance is the story of the match. He came off the bench to score two stoppage-time goals and double his overall Premier League tally to tighten Liverpool's grip on first place. But at 0-0, when Brentford threatened to seize the initiative in Saturday's entertaining clash, few visiting players showed as much attacking intent as Trent Alexander-Arnold.</p><p>The right-back forced Mark Flekken to scramble for one shot - his fourth of the match - that narrowly missed in the 83rd minute before his one-two with Harvey Elliott preceded Nunez's crucial first strike. Liverpool also failed to capitalize on some of Alexander-Arnold's trademark fizzed deliveries earlier in the match, and his defensive frailties weren't evident as the Bees focused on Bryan Mbeumo's clear superiority over Kostas Tsimikas on the other flank. Nunez will dominate the headlines, but Alexander-Arnold's urgency in Brentford's half was pivotal in the 2-0 victory.</p><p><strong>United's colossal clean-up</strong></p><p>Antony seems to be <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3194736" href="https://thescore.com/news/3194736">on his way out</a>, albeit temporarily, but Ruben Amorim will be discarding Erik ten Hag's expensive mistakes for some time. The center-backs are flat-footed, the auditions at the wing-back positions have gone poorly, there's little creativity from the aging midfield, and there are few who can finish in attack. Plus, Sunday's 3-1 home defeat to Brighton &amp; Hove Albion, shed light on a growing concern in goal. Andre Onana's errors happen too often, negating any benefits gained from his ball-playing ability. His latest gaffe, a spilled low cross that eventually fell to the feet of Georginio Rutter, put the game out of United's reach.</p><p><strong>Is Foden fixed?</strong></p><p>Pep Guardiola started his preparation for Wednesday's important Champions League trip to Paris Saint-Germain after just over an hour had elapsed at Ipswich Town. With the score already 5-0 in Manchester City's favor, Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, and Phil Foden were withdrawn with three goals and three assists between them. Foden's recent form is a massive bonus; the attacking midfielder battled a virus earlier in the season, and he didn't score his first Premier League goal until Dec. 21, but he has now helped his team leap up to fourth place. Foden is on five goals and an assist over his past three league appearances following his brace and inviting pass for Mateo Kovacic's strike in the 6-0 win at Portman Road. The second half of City's campaign could improve drastically with an on-fire Foden in Guardiola's ranks.</p><p><strong>Everton, Spurs on different trajectories</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766213/cropped_GettyImages-2194714851.jpg?ts=1737307174" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766213/w220xh124_GettyImages-2194714851.jpg?ts=1737307174 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766213/w320xh180_GettyImages-2194714851.jpg?ts=1737307174 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766213/w640xh360_GettyImages-2194714851.jpg?ts=1737307174 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766213/w768xh432_GettyImages-2194714851.jpg?ts=1737307174 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766213/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2194714851.jpg?ts=1737307174 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Matt McNulty / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Ange Postecoglou's stubbornness can be detrimental, and he should take blame for that, but elements outside his control have arguably contributed more to Tottenham's regression. Eleven players are out injured, including several key components of the defensive group, and the recruitment has been inexcusably poor. For example, the drop-off in quality from center-backs Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero is considerable, and it was emphasized when, for Everton's second goal Sunday, Iliman Ndiaye versus Radu Dragusin resembled a speedboat dodging a deflated dinghy. Dragusin, a year into his Spurs stint, looks far below the required standard.</p><p>It was certainly Everton's day, and there were plenty of positives in the first league win of David Moyes' second coming. Aside from Ndiaye's run and finish, Dominic Calvert-Lewin turning Archie Gray inside-out twice before scoring his first goal since September was a huge boost. Everton were genuinely good, and almost adventurous, in the opening half of their 3-2 victory.</p><p><strong>Van Nistelrooy's reign already turning toxic</strong></p><p>Tensions boiled over at Leicester City after their survival hopes were dealt another blow. Less than a week after the Foxes were held goalless in defeat to Crystal Palace after producing 21 shots, coach Ruud van Nistelrooy was subject to chants of, "You don’t know what you're doing," at King Power Stadium while his squad faced an attacking barrage in a 2-0 loss to Fulham.</p><p>The two home performances were vastly different, but the outcomes were exactly the same. Van Nistelrooy's decision to remove Leicester's best player, Bilal El Khannouss, from Saturday's game proved to be the last straw for a fan base that loudly discredited Van Nistelrooy's coaching abilities afterward. At this point, fans are justified in wondering whether Leicester would've been better off if Steve Cooper was still in charge. They've lost seven of their last nine games and sit 18th - two positions lower in the table than they were when Cooper was fired in late November.</p><h3>Star performer 🌟</h3><p><strong>Justin Kluivert (Bournemouth)</strong></p><p>England's hottest team was no match for Justin Kluivert. Newcastle United - in search of their 10th straight win - were humbled 4-1 at home against Bournemouth, with Kluivert producing his best performance of the season at his dad's old stomping ground. While Dutch great Patrick Kluivert struggled at St. James' Park during his spell at Newcastle, goals weren't nearly as hard to come by for Saturday's hat-trick hero in the northeast of England.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">8 - Only Mohamed Salah (11) has scored more Premier League goals away from home this season than Bournemouth's Justin Kluivert (8). Travels. <a href="https://t.co/4utMeVfa2A">pic.twitter.com/4utMeVfa2A</a></p>— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) <a href="https://twitter.com/OptaJoe/status/1880607421988827192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Over 20 years after Patrick scored his lone goal at St. James' Park, Justin needed just 44 minutes to surpass his dad's record, netting a first-half brace. His second goal was cleverly taken, as Kluivert opted for precision over power. But <a href="#Highlight">his third was the best of the lot</a>, sealing three points with a blistering shot in injury time before setting up the Cherries' fourth goal. The hat-trick was his second of the season - and, by far, his most impressive after scoring a hat-trick of penalties in a game earlier this campaign. Kluivert's 10 goals put him in the conversation for the Premier League Golden Boot.</p><h3>Best XI 😎</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=330643:Flekken,682548:Aina,243138:Tarkowski,1367619:Huijsen,1195281:Kerkez,239219:Kovacic,540963:Berge,1400227:Minteh,815006:Foden,942368:Doku,794253:Kluivert&amp;formation=4-2-3-1" srcset="https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=330643:Flekken,682548:Aina,243138:Tarkowski,1367619:Huijsen,1195281:Kerkez,239219:Kovacic,540963:Berge,1400227:Minteh,815006:Foden,942368:Doku,794253:Kluivert&amp;formation=4-2-3-1 220w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=330643:Flekken,682548:Aina,243138:Tarkowski,1367619:Huijsen,1195281:Kerkez,239219:Kovacic,540963:Berge,1400227:Minteh,815006:Foden,942368:Doku,794253:Kluivert&amp;formation=4-2-3-1 320w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=330643:Flekken,682548:Aina,243138:Tarkowski,1367619:Huijsen,1195281:Kerkez,239219:Kovacic,540963:Berge,1400227:Minteh,815006:Foden,942368:Doku,794253:Kluivert&amp;formation=4-2-3-1 640w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=330643:Flekken,682548:Aina,243138:Tarkowski,1367619:Huijsen,1195281:Kerkez,239219:Kovacic,540963:Berge,1400227:Minteh,815006:Foden,942368:Doku,794253:Kluivert&amp;formation=4-2-3-1 768w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=330643:Flekken,682548:Aina,243138:Tarkowski,1367619:Huijsen,1195281:Kerkez,239219:Kovacic,540963:Berge,1400227:Minteh,815006:Foden,942368:Doku,794253:Kluivert&amp;formation=4-2-3-1 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p>(Source: <a href="https://www.fotmob.com/">FotMob</a>)</p><h3>
<a id="Highlight" name="Highlight">Highlight of the weekend</a> 🎥</h3><p>Confidence was pulsing through Kluivert's veins as he shaped to shoot for his superb third goal.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Justin Kluivert became just the seventh player in <a href="https://twitter.com/premierleague?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@premierleague</a> history to score two hat-tricks away from home in the same season ✅✅✅ <a href="https://t.co/wYpkiBu8Zl">pic.twitter.com/wYpkiBu8Zl</a></p>— AFC Bournemouth 🍒 (@afcbournemouth) <a href="https://twitter.com/afcbournemouth/status/1880736932843446730?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Stat of the weekend 🔢</h3><p>Brentford were dangerous on counter-attacks, but Liverpool were persistent at the other end. The match was goalless until Nunez broke the deadlock in the 91st minute; still, there was a total of 48 shots in an engaging end-to-end fixture in west London.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Liverpool's 37 shots vs Brentford is the most an away team has had in a Premier League game in recorded history (since 03-04) <a href="https://t.co/DFhKro0FNh">pic.twitter.com/DFhKro0FNh</a></p>— Opta Analyst (@OptaAnalyst) <a href="https://twitter.com/OptaAnalyst/status/1880664595972730957?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Social media moment 📱</h3><p>Match of the Day's iconic Saturday night slot on BBC One is at risk following reports that a Manchester United legend with a miserable managerial record could join the punditry team.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">He’ll get them relegated to BBC 2 <a href="https://t.co/DuE3tDZLMa">https://t.co/DuE3tDZLMa</a></p>— Will🔴⚪️ (@WillThomas96) <a href="https://twitter.com/WillThomas96/status/1880680926646272165?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Where we stand 👀</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pos.</th>
<th>Club</th>
<th>Played</th>
<th>GD</th>
<th>Points</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Liverpool</td>
<td>21</td>
<td>+30</td>
<td>50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2.</td>
<td>Arsenal</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>+22</td>
<td>44</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3.</td>
<td>Nottingham Forest</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>+11</td>
<td>44</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4.</td>
<td>Manchester City</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>+15</td>
<td>38</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5.</td>
<td>Newcastle United</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>+12</td>
<td>38</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6.</td>
<td>Chelsea</td>
<td>21</td>
<td>+15</td>
<td>37</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7.</td>
<td>Bournemouth</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>+10</td>
<td>37</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8.</td>
<td>Aston Villa</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>-1</td>
<td>36</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9.</td>
<td>Brighton</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>+5</td>
<td>34</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10.</td>
<td>Fulham</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>+4</td>
<td>33</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11.</td>
<td>Brentford</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>+1</td>
<td>28</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12.</td>
<td>Crystal Palace</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>-3</td>
<td>27</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13.</td>
<td>Manchester United</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>-5</td>
<td>26</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14.</td>
<td>West Ham United</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>-16</td>
<td>26</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15.</td>
<td>Tottenham</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>+10</td>
<td>24</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>16.</td>
<td>Everton</td>
<td>21</td>
<td>-10</td>
<td>20</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17.</td>
<td>Wolves</td>
<td>21</td>
<td>-17</td>
<td>16</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>18.</td>
<td>Ipswich Town</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>-23</td>
<td>16</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>19.</td>
<td>Leicester City</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>-25</td>
<td>14</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>20.</td>
<td>Southampton</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>-35</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>View more stats <a href="thescore:///epl/leaders">here</a>.</em></p>

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EPL review: Arsenal risk another lost season, moods differ in Manchester

Manchester United winger Antony appears set to attempt to revive his career in Spain as his club ...

<p>Manchester United winger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/166123" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/166123">Antony</a> appears set to attempt to revive his career in Spain as his club and Real Betis near a loan agreement until the end of the season, according to transfer insider <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1880887418171412778">Fabrizio Romano</a>.</p><p>The second-most expensive signing in United's history was named on the bench for Sunday's Premier League visit from Brighton &amp; Hove Albion. However, it's expected to be the last time Antony is named in a matchday squad for the club this season before the final details of his La Liga loan are resolved, Romano <a href="https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1880976114925076985">reports</a>.</p><p>United are likely to cover a portion of Antony's wages if the temporary move to Betis goes through, a source told <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/43477351/real-betis-closing-antony-loan-man-united-source">ESPN's Rob Dawson</a>. The Brazilian signed a contract until 2027 with the option of an additional year when he joined United from Ajax for around €95 million in 2022.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/13802" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/13802">Paul Pogba</a> remains United's most expensive recruit from when he returned to Old Trafford from Juventus for at least €105 million in 2016.</p><p>Red Devils ex-manager Erik ten Hag brought Antony to the club after he starred for his former team, Ajax. He's struggled to make an impression in English football, with just five goals and three assists over 61 Premier League outings, and hasn't started a top-flight game since May.</p>

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - JANUARY 16: Antony of Manchester United reacts after a missed chance during the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and Southampton FC at Old Trafford on January 16, 2025 in Manchester, England.

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Report: Man United flop Antony close to joining Real Betis on loan

Casey Stoney was appointed head coach of the Canada women's national team Monday.  The former Eng...

<p>Casey Stoney was appointed head coach of the Canada women's national team Monday.</p><p>The former England captain collected numerous major honors with Arsenal and Charlton Athletic during her playing career. She more recently collected silverware during stints in charge of Manchester United and the NWSL's San Diego Wave.</p><p>She also served as assistant to Phil Neville in the England women's team setup.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Canada has a proud tradition in women's football, and I am excited to work with such a talented group of players," Stoney said.</p><p>"Together with the federation's new leadership, we will strive to build on past successes and continue to grow the sport in Canada on and off the field. I look forward to the journey ahead and to engaging with the incredible passion of Canadian soccer fans."</p><p>Stoney represented England at three Women's World Cup campaigns and earned 130 caps for her country, and she captained Team Great Britain at the 2012 Olympic Games. She played for Arsenal, Charlton, Chelsea, Lincoln, and Liverpool in a glittering club career that yielded four English league titles, four FA Cups, and other trophies.</p><p>The 42-year-old briefly served as Chelsea player-manager in 2009 before joining England's backroom team following her retirement as a player in 2018. She later led Manchester United to promotion to England's top tier in their inaugural 2018-19 season before establishing them among the top teams in the Super League. At San Diego, Stoney captured the NWSL Shield, NWSL Challenge Cup, and the individual distinction of NWSL Coach of the Year over a three-year spell.</p><p>"Casey's track record of successful leadership, her values and strength of character, and her lifelong dedication to the advancement of women's football make her the right person to lead our national team into its next chapter," said Canada Soccer CEO and general secretary Kevin Blue.</p><p>Stoney's tenure begins with February's three-match series at the Pinatar Cup in Spain.</p>

HARRISON, NEW JERSEY - JUNE 19: Casey Stoney Head Coach of San Diego Wave FC claps at the start of the National Women's Soccer League match against the NJ/NY Gotham FC at Red Bull Arena on June 19, 2024 in Harrison, New Jersey.

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Casey Stoney named Canada women's head coach

Tottenham Hotspur survived two big chances for Tamworth near the end of 90 minutes before eventua...

<p>Tottenham Hotspur survived two big chances for Tamworth near the end of 90 minutes before eventually beating their fifth-tier opponents in extra time in Sunday's FA Cup third-round meeting.</p><p>The hosts finished normal time the stronger of the two teams. However, the superior fitness of their illustrious Premier League visitors seemed to dictate proceedings in the additional 30 minutes, with Spurs scoring three times through a scrappy own goal and finishes from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/100082" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/100082">Dejan Kulusevski</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/161384" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/161384">Brennan Johnson</a> to register a 3-0 win and advance to the fourth round.</p><p>FA Cup replays were scrapped ahead of the 2024-25 campaign. In the previous format, Tamworth would be planning for a money-spinning trip to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tottenham progressed - barely - but the result is another mark against the regime of Ange Postecoglou. Spurs hold a 1-0 advantage over Liverpool before the second leg of their League Cup semifinal tie at Anfield on Feb. 6, but their Premier League performance has fallen far below expectations while they sit in 12th place. Postecoglou's ambitious attacking tactics are regularly criticized for their naivety and lack of variety in their approach to games.</p><p>Spurs were very close to falling out of the FA Cup to the non-league team, which would've been one of the biggest upsets in the old competition's history. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/190805" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/190805">Tom McGlinchey</a> could've squared the ball to a teammate instead of firing a near-post shot that was blocked in time added to the end of 90 minutes. From the resulting corner, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/97807" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/97807">Jordan Cullinane-Liburd</a> was presented with an extremely inviting opening from 12 yards but scuffed his shot toward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/209878" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/209878">Antonin Kinsky</a>'s goal.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="und" dir="ltr">Antonín Kinský denies <a href="https://twitter.com/tamworthfc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tamworthfc</a> with just seconds left on the clock 😱<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EmiratesFACup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EmiratesFACup</a> <a href="https://t.co/IKnXpmFXDR">pic.twitter.com/IKnXpmFXDR</a></p>— Emirates FA Cup (@EmiratesFACup) <a href="https://twitter.com/EmiratesFACup/status/1878450503853510946?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Tottenham then took control in extra time. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/202989" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/202989">Nathan Tshikuna</a> bundled the ball into his own net when trying to prevent an easy tap-in for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/34985" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/34985">Dominic Solanke</a>, Kulusevski slotted in a tidy far-post shot, and Johnson concluded the scoring when he fired in a loose ball in the 118th minute.</p><p>"We have to be proud, that was the scrappiest goal that's ever been scored," Tamworth goalkeeper <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engfa/players/97740" href="https://thescore.com/engfa/players/97740">Jasbir Singh</a> said about Spurs' first goal. "They didn't fancy it as long as the game went on, and had to bring on the big boys (from the substitutes' bench)."</p>

Tottenham Hotspur's South Korean striker #07 Son Heung-Min (R) crosses the ball under pressure from Tamworth's English defender #33 Ben Crompton (L) during the English FA Cup third round football match between Tamworth and Tottenham Hotspur at The Lamb Ground in Tamworth, central England on January 12, 2025.

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Spurs avoid FA Cup disaster with win over 5th-tier Tamworth after ET

Elon Musk's father is claiming his son is interested in buying Premier League club Liverpool, cit...

<p>Elon Musk's father is claiming his son is interested in buying Premier League club Liverpool, citing the family's ties to the city.</p><p>Billionaire Elon Musk tweeted in August 2022 that he was going to buy Manchester United. However, he later said the comment was a joke but added that United would be his choice if he purchased a team because he supported them as a boy.</p><p>Now, the elder Musk has caused a stir by saying his son - whose business interests include space technology, the automotive industry, and social media - would like to take over Manchester United's archrivals instead. Liverpool are owned by John W. Henry's Fenway Sports Group.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"He would like to, yes, obviously," Errol Musk told <a href="https://x.com/TimesRadio/status/1876644526720471230">Times Radio's Kait Borsay</a>. "Anybody would want to - so would I."</p><p>He added: "His grandmother was born in Liverpool, and we have relatives in Liverpool, and we were fortunate to know quite a few of the Beatles because they grew up with some of my family. So, we're attached to Liverpool."</p><p>Errol initially seemed reluctant to reveal his son's apparent interest in Liverpool, saying he feared the Fenway Sports Group would "raise the price."</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 16: Elon Musk looks on ring sideduring the UFC 309 event at Madison Square Garden on November 16, 2024 in New York City.

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Elon Musk 'obviously' wants to buy Liverpool, says father

<p><em>Following every weekend of Premier League action, theScore examines the most important developments and biggest talking points to emerge from the slate of matches. Below, we dissect Matchweek 20 of the 2024-25 season.</em></p><h3>Why can't Man United always play with commitment?</h3><p>All Manchester United fans wanted from Sunday's match at Liverpool was a performance full of fight and courage.</p><p>They got both.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>United played for the win against a Liverpool side that has won 82% of its games this season. They made mistakes, of course, with Matthijs de Ligt sliding by Cody Gakpo as the Liverpool forward equalized and later conceding a needless penalty for handball. But United showed enough fight and drive to steer home a 2-2 draw. </p><p>They set the tone early, completing 14 tackles before Liverpool could even win one, and turning Trent Alexander-Arnold, one of Arne Slot's most reliable players, into a liability, sending a barrage of balls over top of him. Harry Maguire and Manuel Ugarte leapt into challenges, showing aggression instead of respect. Though United lost control at times, they were ultimately rewarded for the risks they took.</p><p>The Red Devils approached the Manchester derby with similar grit and stayed in it long enough to snatch a famous victory. They played even better as a collective Sunday at Anfield. It wasn't only a byproduct of an uninterrupted week of training, which head coach Ruben Amorim had been waiting for since November, but a combination of effort and passion. United simply turned up and showed they can play ball.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763753/cropped_GettyImages-2192521928.jpg?ts=1736105502" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763753/w220xh124_GettyImages-2192521928.jpg?ts=1736105502 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763753/w320xh180_GettyImages-2192521928.jpg?ts=1736105502 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763753/w640xh360_GettyImages-2192521928.jpg?ts=1736105502 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763753/w768xh432_GettyImages-2192521928.jpg?ts=1736105502 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763753/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2192521928.jpg?ts=1736105502 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Carl Recine / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>But they seem to pick and choose when to show up and play hard. Amorim couldn't coax the same fighting spirit out of his players in recent losses to Bournemouth, Wolverhampton, and Newcastle United. It may well be that United perform best as the underdog, when they have less of the ball and the chance to play more open games. Possession seems like more of a burden for this team, which often struggles to break down opponents who challenge them to do so.</p><p>As big of a statement a win over Liverpool would've made, it wouldn't have magically saved United's season. What's important is that Amorim now knows his players have the belief to stand up to the kind of opponents the club hopes to one day match. They have to bottle that confidence and energy and unleash it in the coming games against Southampton, Brighton &amp; Hove Albion, and Fulham. Or else the whole exercise lacks purpose.</p><h3>Quick free-kicks 📝</h3><p><strong>No City turnaround yet, but one huge positive</strong></p><p>Let's get the biggest caveat out of the way: Manchester City won 4-1 against Julen Lopetegui's deeply uninspiring West Ham United. There was no Jarrod Bowen, who could be sidelined until the end of February, and goalkeeper Alphonse Areola seems to get steadily worse. Vladimir Coufal was laggard and lost. Edson Alvarez, the bull terrier with no bite in the visitors' midfield, ducked out of a header before City's first goal.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763583/cropped_GettyImages-2191800401.jpg?ts=1736012924" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763583/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191800401.jpg?ts=1736012924 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763583/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191800401.jpg?ts=1736012924 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763583/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191800401.jpg?ts=1736012924 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763583/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191800401.jpg?ts=1736012924 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763583/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191800401.jpg?ts=1736012924 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">OLI SCARFF / AFP / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>And Pep Guardiola's side was still vulnerable at the back and would've conceded more than once with better decision-making by Mohammed Kudus and others. This was far from vintage City, but at least there's one massive plus from recent outings: Savinho and Erling Haaland's connection. Savinho started to turn things around in the 1-1 home draw with Everton, and he's netted a fine strike and assisted three Haaland goals in the two wins that followed. The second goal Saturday was the most pleasing as Haaland touched the ball once - a deft pass to Phil Foden - and then a second time to head it home after Savinho tore past Coufal and whipped in an unstoppable cross.</p><p><strong>Chelsea aren't the finished article</strong></p><p>Saturday's 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace provided further evidence that Chelsea aren't ready to compete for the title. Enzo Maresca's side isn't responsible enough or clinical enough to finish off winnable games like the one at Selhurst Park. Until his players cut down on the giveaways they gift to opponents, they'll be in for a fight just to qualify for the Champions League next season.</p><p>Chelsea controlled play in the first half but lost their composure in the second and seemed likeliest to concede as the minutes ticked by. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez rolled a ball straight to an opponent, Jadon Sancho dribbled his way into trouble in his own end, and Cole Palmer's turnover led to Jean-Philippe Mateta's 82nd-minute equalizer. Chelsea also missed a number of chances to build on their initial 1-0 lead, with mercurial striker Nicolas Jackson once again sending several shots wide and the team landing just one of 15 on target. While the Blues are making long-awaited progress, they're far from the finished article.</p><p><strong>Too many draws for Arsenal to win title</strong></p><p>Even if Arsenal didn't deserve much more than a point from Saturday's 1-1 draw at Brighton &amp; Hove Albion, they could've come away with a win. They started well enough, limited Brighton's chances and only conceded when referee Anthony Taylor awarded a penalty for an unusual clash of heads on the edge of the area. But the Gunners have struggled to manage Premier League games and overcome the injuries and illnesses knocking star players out of action. They've now thrown away 10 points from winning positions, far too many for a team that could trail pacesetters Liverpool by as many as nine if they win their game in hand.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763754/cropped_GettyImages-2191845693.jpg?ts=1736105610" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763754/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191845693.jpg?ts=1736105610 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763754/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191845693.jpg?ts=1736105610 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763754/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191845693.jpg?ts=1736105610 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763754/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191845693.jpg?ts=1736105610 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/763754/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191845693.jpg?ts=1736105610 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Shaun Brooks - CameraSport / CameraSport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has said many times that margins are small and every missed detail could prove costly. He unleashed pickpockets on his players as part of a preseason strategy to keep them sharp. But mistakes like the one that conceded the penalty keep happening. They're momentary lapses that add up. Arsenal also can't afford to flail on any more of Declan Rice's phenomenal deliveries, which are virtual get-out-of-jail-free cards on difficult days like Saturday. Lacking the finish they've previously shown on set pieces, Arteta and Co. will have no choice but to go back to the drawing board if Liverpool take care of business.</p><p><strong>Yes, Southampton might be that bad</strong></p><p>It's already been asked, and it'll be explored in greater depth with each passing defeat: Are Southampton worse than Derby County? The Rams, who have the all-time worst points tally of 11 from the 2007-08 Premier League season, somehow had a more pitiful attack than the 2024-25 Saints. Their defense, however, didn't have the same catastrophic pairing of anxiety and over-ambition. The Derby disasterclass alarmingly had more points at this stage of the season (seven after 20 matches) than Southampton have (six) after Saturday's 5-0 humiliation at home to Brentford.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Southampton this PL season:<br><br>13 — Errors leading to goal<br>12 — Goals <a href="https://t.co/d3kQzWcgVW">pic.twitter.com/d3kQzWcgVW</a></p>— StatMuse FC (@statmusefc) <a href="https://twitter.com/statmusefc/status/1875591436273643672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The reasons that Southampton are bottom of the table are clear to see. They've fired the fewest shots on target while allowing the most attempts on their own goal. Errors drained the team's confidence; the diminishing belief led to more mistakes. And Ivan Juric, who succeeded the ruinously stubborn Russell Martin at the helm, may have the reputation of a disciplinarian from his time working in Italy, but he currently looks little more than a fall guy for a club that's headed for a historically bad Premier League campaign.</p><h3>Star performer 🌟</h3><p><strong>Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford)</strong></p><p>Mbeumo put together a complete performance for Brentford on Saturday. While the two goals stood out - particularly his left-footed rocket from close range - he was central to Brentford's overall attacking play. Mbeumo whipped in crosses and corner kicks, released passes into the 18-yard box, and created five chances for his teammates. He made 81 touches - more than any other Brentford player - showing how much he relishes the responsibility of building their attack.</p><p>The obvious temptation is to play down his efforts. Southampton are, after all, the league's worst team with the worst goal differential. But Mbeumo has played with ambition against teams big and small in the Premier League, dominating in wins over Newcastle and Ipswich Town while scoring goals against Chelsea and Arsenal. He's the real deal.</p><h3>Best XI 😎</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=303919:Pickford,729731:Cash,847983:Martinez,188058:Burn,1010426:Lewis-Potter,923312:Mbeumo,215384:Barkley,1035614:Ugarte,1174337:Savinho,666857:Wissa,737066:Haaland&amp;formation=4-4-2" srcset="https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=303919:Pickford,729731:Cash,847983:Martinez,188058:Burn,1010426:Lewis-Potter,923312:Mbeumo,215384:Barkley,1035614:Ugarte,1174337:Savinho,666857:Wissa,737066:Haaland&amp;formation=4-4-2 220w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=303919:Pickford,729731:Cash,847983:Martinez,188058:Burn,1010426:Lewis-Potter,923312:Mbeumo,215384:Barkley,1035614:Ugarte,1174337:Savinho,666857:Wissa,737066:Haaland&amp;formation=4-4-2 320w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=303919:Pickford,729731:Cash,847983:Martinez,188058:Burn,1010426:Lewis-Potter,923312:Mbeumo,215384:Barkley,1035614:Ugarte,1174337:Savinho,666857:Wissa,737066:Haaland&amp;formation=4-4-2 640w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=303919:Pickford,729731:Cash,847983:Martinez,188058:Burn,1010426:Lewis-Potter,923312:Mbeumo,215384:Barkley,1035614:Ugarte,1174337:Savinho,666857:Wissa,737066:Haaland&amp;formation=4-4-2 768w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=303919:Pickford,729731:Cash,847983:Martinez,188058:Burn,1010426:Lewis-Potter,923312:Mbeumo,215384:Barkley,1035614:Ugarte,1174337:Savinho,666857:Wissa,737066:Haaland&amp;formation=4-4-2 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p>(Source: <a href="https://www.fotmob.com/">FotMob</a>)</p><h3>Highlight of the weekend 🎥</h3><p>Sancho is already closing in on the number of league minutes he amassed at Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund over the whole of last season, and the Chelsea winger has shown glimpses of what he's capable of during those appearances. His dummy, dribble, and subtle prod toward Cole Palmer at Crystal Palace was magnificent.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">A well-worked team goal. 👊<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CFC</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CRYCHE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CRYCHE</a> <a href="https://t.co/XPUBVMrzWE">pic.twitter.com/XPUBVMrzWE</a></p>— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChelseaFC/status/1875663500804043149?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Stat of the weekend 🔢</h3><p>Everton need to find goals from somewhere soon - especially when Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Craig Dawson can't add to his Toffees tally until March.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Goals scored by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EFC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EFC</a> in their last 10 games:<br><br>0-0-0-0-4-0-0-1-0-0<br><br>Goalscorers in those 10 games:<br><br>Craig Dawson (own goal) - 2<br>Ashley Young - 1<br>Orel Mangala - 1<br>Iliman Ndiaye - 1</p>— EFC Statto (@EFC_Statto) <a href="https://twitter.com/EFC_Statto/status/1875586856936743022?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Social media moment 📱</h3><p>Maybe this guy's mother knows more about football than he thinks - and at least she helped Southampton fans enjoy some gallows humor during another awful day for the club.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Went to the St Mary’s for first time in a while. My mum, who knows nothing about football, predicted the 0-5 loss then got booed when collecting her prize from Adam Armstrong in the Saints hospitality 😂 <a href="https://t.co/aRJ5bxpX9r">pic.twitter.com/aRJ5bxpX9r</a></p>— Hugo Scheckter (@HugoScheckter) <a href="https://twitter.com/HugoScheckter/status/1875613672359522817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Where we stand 👀</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pos.</th>
<th>Club</th>
<th>Played</th>
<th>GD</th>
<th>Points</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1.</td>
<td>Liverpool</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>+28</td>
<td>46</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2.</td>
<td>Arsenal</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>+21</td>
<td>40</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3.</td>
<td>Nottingham Forest</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>+7</td>
<td>37</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4.</td>
<td>Chelsea</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>+15</td>
<td>36</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5.</td>
<td>Newcastle United</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>+12</td>
<td>35</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6.</td>
<td>Manchester City</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>+9</td>
<td>34</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7.</td>
<td>Bournemouth</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>+7</td>
<td>33</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8.</td>
<td>Aston Villa</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>-2</td>
<td>32</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9.</td>
<td>Fulham</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>+3</td>
<td>30</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10.</td>
<td>Brighton</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>+1</td>
<td>28</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11.</td>
<td>Brentford</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>+3</td>
<td>27</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12.</td>
<td>Tottenham</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>+12</td>
<td>24</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13.</td>
<td>Manchester United</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>-5</td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14.</td>
<td>West Ham</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>-15</td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15.</td>
<td>Crystal Palace</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>-7</td>
<td>21</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>16.</td>
<td>Everton</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>-10</td>
<td>17</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17.</td>
<td>Wolves</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>-11</td>
<td>16</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>18.</td>
<td>Ipswich Town</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>-15</td>
<td>16</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>19.</td>
<td>Leicester City</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>-21</td>
<td>14</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>20.</td>
<td>Southampton</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>-32</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>View more stats <a href="thescore:///epl/leaders">here</a>.</em></p>

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Mohamed Salah is on course for the most prolific season of his career. It's fair to say he's made...

<p>Mohamed Salah is on course for the most prolific season of his career. It's fair to say he's made his point.</p><p>But, to the frustration of many Liverpool fans, contract talks between the club and superstar are <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3173647" href="https://thescore.com/news/3173647">stalling</a>, thereby risking one of the greatest players in the Reds' history leaving for free in June.</p><p>Here's why Liverpool should pay up, and some reasons why they might be reluctant.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Salah's case for a new deal</h3><p>Salah has reached 30 goal involvements (17 goals and 13 assists) faster than any player in Premier League history, helping Liverpool build a six-point cushion atop the table. He's scored nearly 40% of Liverpool's league goals through 18 games, and nobody else on the team has more than 10 goal involvements.</p><p>The persistent attacker's two goals and four assists in six Champions League outings have also been key in lifting Liverpool into first place in the 36-team league phase. Arne Slot's Salah-powered side hasn't dropped a single point in the competition.</p><p>And few would bet against the Egyptian being decisive in the other two competitions on Liverpool's radar. The League Cup semifinals and an FA Cup third-round match are scheduled early in the new year.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754467/cropped_GettyImages-2183904822.jpg?ts=1731189849" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754467/w220xh124_GettyImages-2183904822.jpg?ts=1731189849 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754467/w320xh180_GettyImages-2183904822.jpg?ts=1731189849 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754467/w640xh360_GettyImages-2183904822.jpg?ts=1731189849 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754467/w768xh432_GettyImages-2183904822.jpg?ts=1731189849 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754467/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2183904822.jpg?ts=1731189849 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">John Powell / Liverpool FC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>One of the main hurdles to extending Salah's stay is his age. But at 32, he's showing few signs of slowing down. In fact, this season he's attempting more take-ons in the Premier League than last term (3.52 attempts per 90 minutes versus 2.46) and is proving more evasive, too (a 50% success rate versus last season's 35.1%). He's also carrying the ball upfield at a similar distance of just over 90 yards per 90 minutes. He's on pace to produce the best statistical season of his career.</p><p>The former Roma winger takes his nutrition and fitness very seriously and rarely misses time through injury; he's never made fewer than 32 league appearances in a season for Liverpool.</p><p>Few players in world football can compete with Salah in productivity, professionalism, conditioning, and, with a huge global presence that includes 63.9 million Instagram followers, marketability. Additionally, renewing his deal would be significantly cheaper than trying to find a replacement in the transfer market for a player who may, in fact, be irreplaceable.</p><p>He's also <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3147410" href="https://thescore.com/news/3147410">reportedly</a> willing to sign a one-year contract, which would protect Liverpool from any sudden regression in the Premier League icon's talents.</p><h3>Why Liverpool might be reluctant</h3><p>It's worth reiterating the main concern about Salah from Liverpool's perspective: At the start of next season, he'll be 33.</p><p>Even Salah can't escape Father Time, and the standout elements of his game - like his acceleration and agility - will inevitably erode. Some players have managed to reinvent themselves in the autumn of their careers, perhaps adopting new positions that lean on their creativity and intellect rather than their physical capabilities, but that is far from a guarantee. Most simply fade.</p><p>Concerns about Salah's workload aren't new, either. He's competed in two midseason Africa Cup of Nations campaigns since he joined Liverpool, and on each occasion there was a notable post-tournament dip. Egypt's travails seemed to take a physical and psychological toll on its talisman.</p><p><strong>Salah's 2021-22 Premier League numbers</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Before AFCON</th>
<th>Stat</th>
<th>After AFCON</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>20</td>
<td>Games</td>
<td>15</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>16</td>
<td>Goals</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>Assists</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1.25</td>
<td>GI* per game</td>
<td>0.73</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>*<em>Goal involvements</em></p><p><strong>Salah's 2023-24 Premier League numbers</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Before AFCON</th>
<th>Stat</th>
<th>After AFCON</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>20</td>
<td>Games</td>
<td>12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14</td>
<td>Goals</td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Assists</td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>1.1</td>
<td>GI per game</td>
<td>0.5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Egypt will compete at AFCON in Morocco between December 2025 and January 2026. That's right in the middle - and during the notoriously busy section - of the English calendar.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/615962/cropped_GettyImages-1925903996.jpg?ts=1707508064" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/615962/w220xh124_GettyImages-1925903996.jpg?ts=1707508064 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/615962/w320xh180_GettyImages-1925903996.jpg?ts=1707508064 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/615962/w640xh360_GettyImages-1925903996.jpg?ts=1707508064 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/615962/w768xh432_GettyImages-1925903996.jpg?ts=1707508064 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/615962/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1925903996.jpg?ts=1707508064 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">FRANCK FIFE / AFP / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Liverpool's wage bill must also be a consideration. Salah is their highest-paid player with a weekly income of £350,000, according to <a href="https://www.capology.com/uk/premier-league/salaries/">Capology</a>. Salah could demand a similar amount given his phenomenal performances and the fact that Saudi Pro League clubs and some heavy-spending European outfits like Paris Saint-Germain could offer him even more.</p><p>His salary represents a huge chunk of Liverpool's wage bill, and the contract talks come at a bad time for the club, with deals for Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold - worth a combined £400,000 per week - also set to expire in June. Van Dijk, 33, finds himself in a similar situation to Salah - he's producing some of the best form of his career ahead of what could be his last big contract. Meanwhile, 26-year-old Alexander-Arnold could demand a huge raise that forces the club to free up funds elsewhere.</p><p>What could a future without Salah look like? A splurge in the transfer market would be expected, but there's already plenty of attacking talent at Liverpool.</p><p>Diogo Jota, 28, is the oldest member of the frontline after Salah. Luis Diaz (27), Cody Gakpo (25), Darwin Nunez (25), and the group of midfielders who carry a goal threat, like Dominik Szoboszlai (24) and Curtis Jones (23), are arguably yet to hit the peak of their powers. Harvey Elliott appeared ready to reach the next level in his development this season before he was sidelined with a fractured foot in September, but the 21-year-old has time to realize his undoubted potential.</p><p>There are more youthful options pushing for first-team consideration, too.</p><p>Ben Doak has been a revelation on a loan at Middlesbrough in the Championship; he could be fast-tracked into Slot's squad. Jayden Danns and Lewis Koumas shone when they both scored in an FA Cup win over Southampton last season. United States youth international Keyrol Figueroa - like Danns and Koumas, another son of a former Premier League footballer - signed a professional contract last May after scoring freely in the academy ranks.</p><p>Salah leaving would mark the end of an era, but it could also herald the start of a very exciting one.</p>

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The League Cup semifinals will feature the first use of in-stadium VAR announcements by referees ...

<p>The League Cup semifinals will feature the first use of in-stadium VAR announcements by referees in English football.</p><p>The trial is a collaboration between Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) and the EFL, which runs the competition. It will begin in Arsenal's visit from Newcastle United in the opening leg of their League Cup duel on Jan. 7 and will be used the following day for the clash between Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool.</p><p>The second legs are set for Feb. 5-6.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"As part of the trial referees will announce (over the stadium public address system) the final decision following a visit to the VAR pitchside monitor, or upon the conclusion of factual matters such as accidental handball by a goalscorer or offside judgements. Only the final decision will be announced in the stadium," the EFL said in a statement released Monday.</p><p>It adds, "The new pilot forms part of PGMOL's broader commitment to transparency and embracing technological advancements for the benefit of match officials and fans."</p><p>Referee announcements to supporters inside stadiums have already been used at several FIFA events, including the 2023 Women's World Cup.</p><p>PGMOL and the EFL have worked together to test potential changes to the game in the past. VAR was trialed in EFL competitions in 2018 before it was introduced in the Premier League. The Championship, League One, and League Two - tiers 2-4 in England run by the EFL - don't use VAR.</p>

LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 27: Referee,Simon Hooper watches the Video Assistant Referee VAR monitor during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Newcastle United FC at Stamford Bridge on October 27, 2024 in London, England.

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<p>Sergio Conceicao succeeded Paulo Fonseca as AC Milan head coach Monday as the Rossoneri try to correct a faltering 2024-25 campaign.</p><p>Fonseca was axed after Sunday's 1-1 home draw with Roma. The result left Milan in eighth place, eight points adrift of the fourth and final Champions League place and 14 points behind leaders Atalanta and Napoli.</p><p>Conceicao signed a contract until June 2026 for his first coaching job in Serie A. The former Nantes and Porto boss played in Italy for Lazio, Parma, and Inter Milan.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Milan's latest Portuguese coach joins a club troubled by testy relationships in the dressing room, boardroom, and the San Siro stands.</p><p>Fonseca had public fallouts with winger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/97234" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/97234">Rafael Leao</a> and full-back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///seri/players/67855" href="https://thescore.com/seri/players/67855">Theo Hernandez</a> during his time in charge and seemed destined for the sack on multiple occasions before pulling off timely results. Milan are in good form in the Champions League - their run of four straight wins includes a notable 3-1 victory at Real Madrid - and smashed Sassuolo to reach the Coppa Italia quarterfinals, but they've won just two of their last seven Serie A outings.</p><p>Fonseca worked against a backdrop of unrest between Milan's supporters and owners. The club's 125th anniversary celebrations in mid-December were marred by chants against American investment fund RedBird, the team's performance in a drab goalless draw with Genoa, and the absence of icon Paolo Maldini - who was sacked as sporting director in June 2023 - from a pre-match parade of club legends.</p><p>Fans later gathered outside a private anniversary party and targeted some players in their protests. One of the banners <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3174297" href="https://thescore.com/news/3174297">read</a>, "A club with no ambition, you're not worthy of our history."</p>

Porto's Portuguese coach Sergio Conceicao is pictured before the 'Taca de Portugal' (Portugal's Cup) final football match between Sporting CP and FC Porto at Estadio Nacional in Oeiras, outskirts of Lisbon, on May 26, 2024.

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Conceicao named Milan coach after Fonseca pays price for poor 6 months

Dani Olmo could be unavailable for the rest of Barcelona's La Liga campaign after a court rejecte...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///espcr/players/60638" href="https://thescore.com/espcr/players/60638">Dani Olmo</a> could be unavailable for the rest of Barcelona's La Liga campaign after a court rejected the club's request to extend the attacker's registration beyond its current expiry of Dec. 31.</p><p>La Liga has <a href="https://www.laliga.com/en-GB/news/official-statement-egarding-interim-measures-for-the-registration-of-dani-olmo">welcomed</a> the decision from Commercial Court No. 10 of Barcelona. The Catalan club's spending cap for the 2024-25 campaign is €426 million. La Liga will only allow its clubs to free up more space through transfer income, a reduction in its wage bill, or by raising revenue.</p><p>Barcelona have filed an appeal to the magistrate court, according to Spanish reports relayed by <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cn0x8y6080do">BBC Sport</a>. The hearing would be set for Monday, which is a day before Olmo's registration deadline.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Barcelona recently signed a new long-term kit deal with Nike, but that income isn't enough to register Olmo, sources told <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/43179642/barcelona-dani-olmo-registration-rejected-court">ESPN's Sam Marsden and Moises Llorens</a>. Among the reported options being explored to ensure Olmo remains on the squad list for La Liga are the presale of VIP seats at the Camp Nou and a personal guarantee from a board member to enable the registration.</p><p>The latter route helped register <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///espcr/players/67045" href="https://thescore.com/espcr/players/67045">Jules Kounde</a> in 2022 and both <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/102327" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/102327">Joao Felix</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///natleaguea/players/51857" href="https://thescore.com/natleaguea/players/51857">Joao Cancelo</a> in 2023.</p><p>Olmo, who arrived from RB Leipzig for around €60 million last summer, was initially allowed a temporary registration until the end of the calendar year to cover a long-term injury to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///espcr/players/22043" href="https://thescore.com/espcr/players/22043">Andreas Christensen</a>. Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo has reported that Barcelona risk losing Olmo on a free transfer if he can't be registered, but sources close to the player and club have stressed to ESPN that it's extremely unlikely.</p><p>Olmo has scored five times in 11 La Liga appearances this season, while adding a goal and assist in four Champions League outings.</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///espcr/players/169057" href="https://thescore.com/espcr/players/169057">Pau Victor</a> is in the same situation as Olmo. The 23-year-old forward has made 17 appearances across all competitions, scoring twice and assisting once since joining from Girona in the summer.</p>

BARCELONA, SPAIN - DECEMBER 15: Dani Olmo of FC Barcelona looks on during the LaLiga match between FC Barcelona and CD Leganes at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on December 15, 2024 in Barcelona, Spain.

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Barcelona's plea to extend Olmo's registration rejected in court

theScore examines the most important developments and biggest talking points from the Premier Lea...

<p><em>theScore examines the most important developments and biggest talking points from the Premier League's Boxing Day bonanza, which featured 16 teams in action and a flurry of notable results.</em></p><h3>Anticipating the Man United blame game</h3><p>What best emphasized how broken Manchester United are in the 2-0 defeat at Wolverhampton Wanderers wasn't Bruno Fernandes' third red card of the season, the team's startling lack of mettle after that dismissal, or the concession of a second Olimpico in seven days.</p><p>It was how Ruben Amorim responded to going one goal down: Amad Diallo, Kobbie Mainoo, and Manuel Ugarte withdrawn in favor of Antony, Casemiro, and Christian Eriksen.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Three apparent bright spots left over from the Erik ten Hag regime supplanted; three substitutes that - let's be clear - better reflect the Dutchman's legacy taking their place. The trio introduced from the bench, like plenty of other Ten Hag recruits in the squad, are expensive and tired impediments to any manager's attempts to return United to the top, and they were asked to change the match.</p><p>They didn't.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bruno Fernandes is the first Manchester United player to be sent off three times in a single season across all competitions since Nemanja Vidic in 2008/09.🛁 <a href="https://t.co/fwgKKmFpD9">pic.twitter.com/fwgKKmFpD9</a></p>— Squawka Live (@Squawka_Live) <a href="https://twitter.com/Squawka_Live/status/1872351248479068254?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>In some ways, the early part of Amorim's job is easy. While supporters digest the fact that Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the man who's supposed to save the club from the Glazer family, seems to miser exactly like a Glazer, any positivity from elsewhere will be seized. They need something - <em>anything</em> - right now. The bar's been so low in recent years. Diallo winning the strikingly low-quality Manchester derby on Dec. 15 has seemed to singlehandedly obscure Amorim's poor record to start his reign.</p><p><strong>United's last 14 Premier League matches</strong></p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Manager</th>
<th>Matches</th>
<th>GD</th>
<th>Points</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Ten Hag</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Amorim</td>
<td>7</td>
<td>-3</td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Amorim must continue to stay ahead of the blame game. More embarrassments and lapses lie ahead - it's inevitable with these players and following years of mismanagement in the boardroom - but will the Portuguese tactician do enough to ensure Ratcliffe's hoard of executives face the fans' ire before him?</p><p>The early signs aren't great for Amorim. Instead of finding an approach the best suits the team he's inherited, he's forcing players into a 3-4-2-1 with limited success. The team is confused, both with the formation and when defending set-pieces. More consistency needs to be found soon, or the goodwill toward the new boss will erode.</p><p>Relief for Amorim could be found in the performances of the looming figures in the boardroom, like Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox, who have the extremely difficult task of discarding Ten Hag offal while finding players who can immediately enhance the first team and improve within it. After Ratcliffe's unpopular moves to cut costs around the club, patience with selling and buying may be in short supply. The fans' anger meter is currently teetering toward the executives.</p><p>Ten Hag's management could've set United back at least five years. Right now, it seems unlikely that both the first-team coaching staff and the suits upstairs will be afforded the level of patience it requires to clean it up.</p><h3>Quick free-kicks 📝</h3><p><strong>How will Chelsea respond?</strong></p><p>Enzo Maresca's continued insistence that his young team isn't a title contender is easy enough to see through. It's a classic deflection tactic from a manager trying to keep external pressure off his players. But the table doesn't lie: Chelsea <em>are</em> in<em> </em>the race, whether they admit it or not. That will make Thursday's late collapse against London rivals Fulham more difficult to digest. The Blues, up 1-0 after Cole Palmer broke a club record with his 26th Premier League goal of the calendar year, couldn't put the game away and conceded twice in the closing minutes, including a 95th-minute decider.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762265/cropped_GettyImages-2191487081.jpg?ts=1735234471" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762265/w220xh124_GettyImages-2191487081.jpg?ts=1735234471 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762265/w320xh180_GettyImages-2191487081.jpg?ts=1735234471 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762265/w640xh360_GettyImages-2191487081.jpg?ts=1735234471 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762265/w768xh432_GettyImages-2191487081.jpg?ts=1735234471 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762265/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2191487081.jpg?ts=1735234471 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ryan Pierse / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>It's the first time Chelsea have lost a league match after leading at halftime since 2021. How they respond will be telling. Recovering quickly from setbacks and not allowing one bad result to snowball and ruin your season is a trait shared by all title-winning teams. Are Chelsea in that category, or has Maresca been right all along? Let's find out.</p><p><strong>Contrasting starts for new coaches</strong></p><p>Is the vaunted "new manager bounce" slightly overrated? Probably. Good luck trying to convince reinvigorated Wolves fans of that right now, though. Vitor Pereira has won his first two matches since replacing Gary O'Neil, keeping clean sheets in both outings and lifting Wolves out of the relegation zone. He's already matched O'Neil's Premier League win total this season, which probably says more about the former coach than the current one.</p><p>Wolves are led by Matheus Cunha, who has seven goals and four assists in his last 10 league games, and boast a more talented squad than the teams directly around them in the relegation battle. That includes Southampton, who, despite an obvious tactical shift since the arrival of defensive-minded coach Ivan Juric, are still awaiting their first victory since firing Russell Martin. There have been small signs of defensive improvement for the Saints over the past week, but finding a consistent source of goals will continue to be a problem, and Juric doesn't profile as the kind of coach who will help rectify that issue.</p><p><strong>Sweet revenge for Nuno</strong></p><p>He won't admit as much publicly, but Nottingham Forest's 1-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur had to be sweet for Nuno Espirito Santo, who was unceremoniously fired after just 17 games in charge of Spurs back in 2021. His conservative style of play, as much as the results, was deemed inadequate during his brief spell in north London. With the benefit of hindsight, it's an interesting conversation to have now. Nuno, sticking to his tactical principles, has Forest sitting third in the Premier League; the club has four consecutive top-flight wins for the first time since 1995.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762292/cropped_GettyImages-2190374622.jpg?ts=1735250646" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762292/w220xh124_GettyImages-2190374622.jpg?ts=1735250646 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762292/w320xh180_GettyImages-2190374622.jpg?ts=1735250646 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762292/w640xh360_GettyImages-2190374622.jpg?ts=1735250646 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762292/w768xh432_GettyImages-2190374622.jpg?ts=1735250646 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/762292/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2190374622.jpg?ts=1735250646 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">NurPhoto / NurPhoto / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Tottenham, meanwhile, are objectively more entertaining to watch, but they're languishing in the bottom half of the table under Ange Postecoglou after a rotten run of four losses in five league games. While Spurs concede goals for fun, Forest have the third-best defensive record in the league behind only Liverpool and Arsenal. Would the Tottenham brass like a mulligan right now?</p><p><strong>Time to talk about Robbo?</strong></p><p>It obviously hasn't hampered Liverpool this season - the Reds are six points clear at the top of the Premier League with a game in hand after Thursday's win over Leicester City - but stalwart Andy Robertson is enduring a blip in form that, if sustained, could become an issue. The Scot, for so long a model of consistent excellence at left-back, got badly twisted out of shape by Jordan Ayew, of all people, on the Foxes' early goal at Anfield.</p><p>Earlier this month, his mishap and subsequent red card against Fulham put Arne Slot's team in a hole before his teammates fought back and earned a draw. That incident at least came with a caveat: Robertson seemed to pick up an injury earlier in the match and was likely going to be replaced before his sending-off. There was no such alibi this time. He's still among the team leaders in minutes played this season - he remains a vital part of Slot's side - but with Kostas Tsimikas now fit again and providing competition after recovering from an ankle injury, Robertson needs to tighten up his game.</p><h3>Best XI 😎</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=215168:Leno,760320:Wan-Bissaka,1367619:Huijsen,1458711:Murillo,877401:Bassey,831489:Mac%20Allister,179410:Gueye,535936:Joelinton,1096353:Palmer,806552:Gakpo,863098:Cunha&amp;formation=4-3-2-1&amp;lineupTitle=Boxing%20Day" srcset="https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=215168:Leno,760320:Wan-Bissaka,1367619:Huijsen,1458711:Murillo,877401:Bassey,831489:Mac%20Allister,179410:Gueye,535936:Joelinton,1096353:Palmer,806552:Gakpo,863098:Cunha&amp;formation=4-3-2-1&amp;lineupTitle=Boxing%20Day 220w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=215168:Leno,760320:Wan-Bissaka,1367619:Huijsen,1458711:Murillo,877401:Bassey,831489:Mac%20Allister,179410:Gueye,535936:Joelinton,1096353:Palmer,806552:Gakpo,863098:Cunha&amp;formation=4-3-2-1&amp;lineupTitle=Boxing%20Day 320w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=215168:Leno,760320:Wan-Bissaka,1367619:Huijsen,1458711:Murillo,877401:Bassey,831489:Mac%20Allister,179410:Gueye,535936:Joelinton,1096353:Palmer,806552:Gakpo,863098:Cunha&amp;formation=4-3-2-1&amp;lineupTitle=Boxing%20Day 640w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=215168:Leno,760320:Wan-Bissaka,1367619:Huijsen,1458711:Murillo,877401:Bassey,831489:Mac%20Allister,179410:Gueye,535936:Joelinton,1096353:Palmer,806552:Gakpo,863098:Cunha&amp;formation=4-3-2-1&amp;lineupTitle=Boxing%20Day 768w, https://www.fotmob.com/api/lineup-builder/team?players=215168:Leno,760320:Wan-Bissaka,1367619:Huijsen,1458711:Murillo,877401:Bassey,831489:Mac%20Allister,179410:Gueye,535936:Joelinton,1096353:Palmer,806552:Gakpo,863098:Cunha&amp;formation=4-3-2-1&amp;lineupTitle=Boxing%20Day 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution"></span></figcaption></figure><p>(Source: <a href="https://www.fotmob.com/">FotMob</a>)</p><h3>Highlight of the day 🎥</h3><p>Don't look now, but Newcastle United have surged up to fifth in the Premier League following an impressive 3-0 win over Aston Villa. Everything Alexander Isak touches is turning to gold right now, while Anthony Gordon is providing secondary scoring with stunning efforts like this, which came 80 seconds into Thursday's tilt at St. James' Park.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Incredible from Anthony Gordon.<br><br>His curling effort set <a href="https://twitter.com/NUFC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NUFC</a> on their way to a 3-0 win against Aston Villa! <a href="https://t.co/gHIdCqFgH2">pic.twitter.com/gHIdCqFgH2</a></p>— Premier League (@premierleague) <a href="https://twitter.com/premierleague/status/1872418660859678742?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Stat of the day 🔢</h3><p>Manchester City, who have just one win in their last 13 games across all competitions following Thursday's 1-1 home draw with Everton, are keeping some unusual company right now.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Since the start of November, Manchester City have conceded 26 goals in all competitions.<br><br>In that time, the only side from Europe's top 5 leagues to concede more is Heidenheim (28). <a href="https://t.co/p4tGCz7Whn">pic.twitter.com/p4tGCz7Whn</a></p>— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) <a href="https://twitter.com/eurofootcom/status/1872271739683738050?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Social media moment 📱</h3><p>Regardless of what happens in their next match, Tottenham will record their lowest points tally at the midway mark of a Premier League season since 2008-09. Against that backdrop, unearthing some unknown players to help turn things around isn't such a bad idea. Announce "Ons" in the January window, Spurs.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Thanks <a href="https://twitter.com/SpursOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpursOfficial</a> Christmas is ruined <a href="https://t.co/8PMAeZEI5C">pic.twitter.com/8PMAeZEI5C</a></p>— 𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙤𝙨 (@NotChaos) <a href="https://twitter.com/NotChaos/status/1871934143355027939?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 25, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Where we stand 👀</h3><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pos.</th>
<th>Club</th>
<th>Played</th>
<th>GD</th>
<th>Points</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1.</td>
<td>Liverpool</td>
<td>17</td>
<td>+23</td>
<td>42</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2.</td>
<td>Arsenal</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>+19</td>
<td>36</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3.</td>
<td>Chelsea</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>+17</td>
<td>35</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4.</td>
<td>Nottingham Forest</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>+5</td>
<td>34</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5.</td>
<td>Newcastle</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>+9</td>
<td>29</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6.</td>
<td>Bournemouth</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>+6</td>
<td>29</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7.</td>
<td>Manchester City</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>+4</td>
<td>28</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8.</td>
<td>Fulham</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>+3</td>
<td>28</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9.</td>
<td>Aston Villa</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>-3</td>
<td>28</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10.</td>
<td>Brighton</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>+1</td>
<td>26</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11.</td>
<td>Brentford</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>24</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12.</td>
<td>Tottenham</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>+13</td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13.</td>
<td>West Ham</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>-7</td>
<td>23</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14.</td>
<td>Manchester United</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>-3</td>
<td>22</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15.</td>
<td>Everton</td>
<td>17</td>
<td>-7</td>
<td>17</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>16.</td>
<td>Crystal Palace</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>-8</td>
<td>17</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17.</td>
<td>Wolves</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>-11</td>
<td>15</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>18.</td>
<td>Leicester</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>-18</td>
<td>14</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>19.</td>
<td>Ipswich Town</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>-17</td>
<td>12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>20.</td>
<td>Southampton</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>-26</td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p><em>View more stats <a href="thescore:///epl/leaders">here</a>.</em></p>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/29580380/related

EPL Review: Key takeaways and analysis from Boxing Day action

Coventry City thumped Plymouth Argyle 4-0 on Boxing Day in the first meeting of former club rival...

<p>Coventry City thumped Plymouth Argyle 4-0 on Boxing Day in the first meeting of former club rivals and England teammates Frank Lampard and Wayne Rooney as managers.</p><p>A <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engch/players/101632" href="https://thescore.com/engch/players/101632">Josh Eccles</a> brace and a goal apiece for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engch/players/182930" href="https://thescore.com/engch/players/182930">Tatsuhiro Sakamoto</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///engch/players/88045" href="https://thescore.com/engch/players/88045">Ephron Mason-Clark</a> helped Coventry rise to 14th in the Championship table. The Sky Blues were 17th, and two points above the relegation places, when Lampard succeeded popular coach Mark Robins at the helm near the end of November.</p><p>Meanwhile, Rooney's Plymouth are bottom of England's second tier and have taken only three points from the last 24 on offer following their heavy defeat in the East Midlands. The next two-and-a-half weeks could be crucial to their survival bid, with two matches against Oxford United and a trip to Stoke City -teams positioned just above the drop zone - crammed into a tight run of five matches.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Lampard and Rooney are trying to rebuild their managerial careers, which both started at Derby County. Lampard led the Rams to the Championship playoff final in 2019, and Rooney drew plaudits while he battled admirably against a 21-point deduction before the troubled club's somewhat inevitable descent to League One in 2022.</p><p>The Chelsea and Manchester United legends have been less successful since. </p><p>Lampard's tactics were often criticized during his spells in charge of Chelsea and Everton. After twice failing to guide D.C. United to the MLS postseason, Rooney took over Birmingham City - who were sixth in the Championship - in October 2023 and suffered nine defeats in a 15-game tenure before he was sacked last January. The Blues were relegated at the end of the 2023-24 season.</p>

COVENTRY, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 26: Wayne Rooney manager / head coach of Plymouth Argyle and Frank Lampard manager / head coach of Coventry City shake hands during the Sky Bet Championship match between Coventry City FC and Plymouth Argyle FC at The Coventry Building Society Arena on December 26, 2024 in Coventry, England.

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Lampard's Coventry smash Rooney's Plymouth in legends' 1st managerial duel

Human rights groups and climate activists have condemned FIFA for naming Saudi Arabia as host of ...

<p>Human rights groups and climate activists have condemned FIFA for naming Saudi Arabia as host of the 2034 World Cup.</p><p>The Middle Eastern country's uncontested bid <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3156121" href="https://thescore.com/news/3156121">won the rights</a> to the tournament Wednesday, leading to criticism that FIFA president Gianni Infantino is strengthening Saudi Arabia's sportswashing project as he tries to squeeze more money out of soccer for the sport's world governing body.</p><p>"FIFA has totally thrown their human rights policy right in the garbage can for this," Michael Page, the deputy director of Human Rights Watch's Middle East and North Africa division, told theScore.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"They've invested in mega events, they've invested in celebrities and entertainment, and they've absolutely invested in sport, and especially football, to distract from, obfuscate, and silence dissent on what is a really terrible human rights record," Page said of Saudi Arabia's attempts to boost its image.</p><p>Thousands of migrant workers died while building infrastructure for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. FIFA hasn't compensated anybody who suffered human rights abuses during those preparations, despite its own independent investigation finding it's the organization's "responsibility" to do so.</p><p>Human rights groups fear the death toll could be much larger in Saudi Arabia, a neighbor of Qatar, around the 2034 World Cup. Qatar had a migrant workforce of well under 3 million ahead of the World Cup; Saudi Arabia's migrant workforce totals 13.4 million and is already subjected to the same abuses that occurred in Qatar before World Cup preparations are officially underway.</p><p>A Human Rights Watch <a href="https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/12/04/saudi-arabia-giga-projects-built-widespread-labor-abuses">investigation</a> published last week found "many migrant worker deaths in Saudi Arabia are unexplained, uninvestigated, and uncompensated."</p><p>Saudi Arabia's number of migrant workers is expected to rise rapidly with many large projects on the horizon. The projects include the construction or renovation of 12 stadiums to ensure they have capacities of 40,000 or more to meet FIFA's requirement for 2034, according to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3155838" href="https://thescore.com/news/3155838">Agence-France Presse</a>.</p><h3>Severe restrictions on free speech</h3><p>Human rights groups are also concerned by how Saudi Arabia's repressive authoritarian regime threatens people's freedoms around the World Cup. There are potentially grave consequences for falling foul of Saudi law: the Middle East state has already executed more people in 2024 (304) than it has in any other year over the past three decades, according to Union Nations experts.</p><p>Speaking out against Saudi Arabia is dangerous. Peaceful protests on social media were punished with decades-long prison terms or death sentences in 2023, according to a <a href="https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2024/country-chapters/saudi-arabia">Human Rights Watch</a> report.</p><p>"The ability for a worker or journalist or a human rights activist to point out problems and criticize the government is nearly zero," Steve Cockburn, the head of labor rights and sport for Amnesty International, told theScore.</p><p>Cockburn said it's unclear how some laws, such as those restricting women's rights and prohibiting same-sex relationships, will be enforced during the tournament.</p><p>Climate activists have added to the voices against awarding Saudi Arabia with the 2034 World Cup. It's widely believed that one of FIFA's primary motivators to steer the World Cup toward the country was to appease its biggest sponsor, Aramco, the Saudi state oil company.</p><p>Saudi Arabia is the world's top oil exporter and has been <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/18/climate/saudi-arabia-obstruction-fossil-fuels.html">widely</a> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/nov/27/revealed-saudi-arabia-plan-poor-countries-oil">accused</a> of trying to slow the switch to clean energy.</p><p>"The same FIFA president who calls climate change 'one of the most pressing challenges of our time' has massively expanded the footprint of the World Cup and ensured that it is hosted by a regime that is all in on selling oil and stopping climate action," Fossil Free Football founder Frank Huisingh said.</p><p>Dutch international Tessel Middag contributed to an <a href="https://img1.wsimg.com/blobby/go/558b37ef-276d-4111-81a8-d0fea75f10fd/Letter%20to%20FIFA_%20Aramco%20Sponsorship%20(3).pdf">open letter</a> with other female footballers in October that urged FIFA to reconsider its association with Aramco.</p><p>"(FIFA's) willingness to let Saudi Arabia improve its reputation through football is isolating players, fans, and the planet," Middag said. "Securing a future for football, where everyone can play it and enjoy it, requires real leadership from the very top. The 2034 World Cup decision is further proof that football deserves better."</p>

MOSCOW, RUSSIA - JUNE 14: Asian Football Confederation President Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim al Khalifa, Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Al Saud, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, and Russia's President Vladimir Putin (L-R) during the opening ceremony prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Group A match between Russia and Saudi Arabia at Luzhniki Stadium on June 14, 2018 in Moscow, Russia.

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Human rights groups fear Saudi World Cup will cause unprecedented damage

FIFA has granted hosting duties for the 2030 men's World Cup to a group of six countries spanning...

<p>FIFA has granted hosting duties for the 2030 men's World Cup to a group of six countries spanning three continents.</p><p>It also confirmed that Saudi Arabia will stage the tournament in 2034.</p><p>The vote for both editions of the World Cup was conducted during a virtual meeting Wednesday, but <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3155838" href="https://thescore.com/news/3155838">the outcome was already known</a> because neither bid had a rival.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Morocco, Portugal, and Spain will lead the 2030 World Cup, but there'll be a game apiece in Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The South American countries are included to mark 100 years since the first World Cup was held in Uruguay.</p><p>Ukraine was briefly part of a mooted bid with Portugal and Spain, but that potential proposal was short-lived. A joint British and Irish bid was also dropped as the nations focused on hosting Euro 2028.</p><p>The 2030 World Cup being staged across three continents ruled out any countries from Africa, Europe, and South America from hosting in 2034. North America was already out of contention because the tournament will be held across Canada, Mexico, and the United States in 2026. Saudi Arabia's bid was strengthened further when Australia and Indonesia dropped their interest in co-hosting after FIFA surprisingly gave potential bidders just a month to submit their 2034 candidacy.</p><p>The country has developed close ties with FIFA under Gianni Infantino's presidency. Saudi Arabia hosted the 2023 Club World Cup, and the governing body has a lucrative sponsorship agreement with Aramco, the Saudi state-owned oil company.</p><p>There are significant logistical issues to overcome to stage the event in Saudi Arabia.</p><p>Saudi Arabia currently has just two stadiums with a capacity of at least 40,000. Fourteen are required to host the tournament in 2034, according to <a href="https://thescore.com/news/3155838">Agence-France Presse</a>. And, like Qatar in 2022, the sweltering summer heat will likely force the tournament to be shifted to the winter months. The fact that Ramadan takes place in December that year could push the tournament to January.</p><p>Like Qatar, Saudi Arabia is <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3156172" href="https://thescore.com/news/3156172">accused of sportswashing</a> its reputation through hosting major events. Human rights groups have highlighted executions, the oppression of women, the prohibiting of same-sex relationships, and the denial of free expression among many issues under its authoritarian regime.</p><p>"We look forward to positive human rights impacts, which are responsibilities of hosting a World Cup," Infantino said after the hosts were announced.</p><p>"The unique spotlight of a World Cup helps to shine light for improvements."</p>

ZURICH, SWITZERLAND - DECEMBER 11: FIFA President Gianni Infantino announces Saudi Arabia as the host of the FIFA World Cup 2034 during the Extraordinary FIFA Congress 2024 at the Home of FIFA on December 11, 2024 in Zurich, Switzerland.

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6 nations to host 2030 World Cup, Saudi Arabia gets 2034 tournament

Gianni Infantino wants you to know the revamped, overstuffed Club World Cup was his idea. One pie...

<p>Gianni Infantino wants you to know the revamped, overstuffed Club World Cup was his idea. One piece of self-aggrandizement isn't enough, so his name is engraved on the trophy twice. His signature's there, too.</p><p>The FIFA president proudly presented his magnum opus at Thursday's draw for next summer's 32-team event in the United States. Despite widespread criticism, it's happening: Group-stage meetings <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3150684" href="https://thescore.com/news/3150684">were set</a> after some flashy music and a video greeting from President-elect Donald Trump, and each utterance from Infantino was met with awkward laughter or feigned amazement.</p><p>Some of the fixtures are undeniably enticing, but anything associated with Infantino deserves distrust. After all, this is the FIFA president who sidles up to the world's despotic leaders, fluttering his eyelids while revealing the tournaments he'll grant them to enhance their sportswashing projects. The Under-17 World Cup will expand to 48 teams and be held annually starting next year; Qatar, which human rights groups hold responsible for thousands of migrant worker deaths in its preparations to stage the 2022 World Cup, will host the next five editions.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The destination for the 2034 World Cup? Saudi Arabia will formally be handed that event next week. United Nations experts report the Middle East state has executed 304 people in 2024, which is already more than any year over the past three decades in Saudi Arabia.</p><p>And FIFA effectively cleared the way for a Saudi victory, fast-tracking the bidding process and removing African, European, and South American countries from contention because the 2030 tournament will feature games in Spain, Portugal, Morocco, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay.</p><p>The unprecedented scale of that World Cup is one of many examples exposing the insincerity of FIFA's climate pledges.</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759048/cropped_GettyImages-2188404748.jpg?ts=1733423459" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759048/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188404748.jpg?ts=1733423459 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759048/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188404748.jpg?ts=1733423459 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759048/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188404748.jpg?ts=1733423459 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759048/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188404748.jpg?ts=1733423459 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/759048/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188404748.jpg?ts=1733423459 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Brennan Asplen / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>A Swiss regulator determined Infantino's organization misled fans when it said the World Cup in Qatar would be carbon neutral. <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/63466168">Climate scientists</a> estimate the month-long tournament emitted more carbon pollution than countries like Cameroon and Uruguay do in an entire year. Infantino's own carbon footprint is gargantuan; a <a href="https://josimarfootball.com/2024/09/12/fly-another-day/#:~:text=Gianni%20Infantino%20has%20flown%20more,commitment%20to%20fight%20climate%20change.">Josimar</a> investigation found he flew more than 600,000 kilometers in a Qatar-owned private jet over a three-year span.</p><p>"Infantino says FIFA has a climate plan, but all we see is pollution," Fossil Free Football founder Frank Huisingh told theScore. "Pollution caused by ever bigger international tournaments, with ever more polluting flights and many new stadiums constructed. Pollution caused by teaming up with one of the biggest polluters of all, Saudi state oil company Aramco."</p><p>Infantino also seems to have disregarded growing concerns over the sport's congested calendar. Injuries and fatigue are turning matches into fitness tests rather than spectacles of tactics and technical brilliance. The next men's World Cup in 2026, expanding to 48 teams, will have 40 more matches than previous editions. Sure, expand the Club World Cup and hold it every four years, but don't simply cram 63 games into an already loaded schedule. Something has to give. Clubs that <em>don't</em> compete in the Club World Cup next summer will get clear advantages; the likes of Barcelona and Liverpool will benefit greatly from rest and a full preseason program ahead of the 2025-26 campaign.</p><p>The Club World Cup is a fine idea in isolation. The rare matchups of historic teams from different continents are appealing, and it will feature the intriguing mishmash of cultures that enhances events like the international World Cup and Olympics. It also has the potential to draw a global audience and generate significant funds for the oft-overlooked non-European teams involved - though probably not the huge sums Infantino initially promised. Shocker.</p><p>This is FIFA, so, in all likelihood, the bloated Club World Cup will be a dreary procession of exhausted players competing in glorified friendlies. Infantino, overflowing with dirty money and self-satisfaction, simply won't care while he cozies up to more power-crazed billionaires in the stands.</p>

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Revamped Club World Cup could be great if Infantino didn't get in the way

Manchester United abandoned plans to wear an Adidas jacket in support of the LGBTQ+ community aft...

<p>Manchester United abandoned plans to wear an Adidas jacket in support of the LGBTQ+ community after full-back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/100388" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/100388">Noussair Mazraoui</a> refused to participate, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5966168/2024/12/04/manchester-united-lgbtq-mazraoui/?source=twitteruk&amp;utm_campaign=twitterfc&amp;utm_medium=social">The Athletic's Adam Crafton</a>.</p><p>United have worn pride-themed warm-up jerseys and walk-out jackets ahead of matches in the past, but a similar gesture for Sunday's Premier League visit from Everton was scrapped after Mazraoui, citing his Muslim faith, said he wouldn't join the initiative.</p><p>The club shelved the jackets just hours before kickoff so Mazraoui's refusal wouldn't be made public. Some Manchester United players were unhappy with this decision, Crafton understands.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Players are entitled to hold their own individual opinions, particularly in relation to their faith, and these may sometimes differ from the club's position," United said in a statement sent to The Athletic.</p><p>Premier League captains, including United's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/23312" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/23312">Bruno Fernandes</a>, are wearing rainbow armbands as part of the Rainbow Laces campaign. The initiative runs across two matchdays each season in partnership with the charity Stonewall, which promotes equality, diversity and LGBTQ+ acceptance.</p><p>Crystal Palace's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/159888" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/159888">Marc Guehi</a> wore a rainbow armband but wrote pro-Christian messages on it. The English international <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/159888" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/159888">reportedly</a> escaped punishment despite the Football Association's restrictions on religious messages. Ipswich Town's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/13254" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/13254">Sam Morsy</a>, who was born in England but represents Egypt internationally, didn't participate in the Rainbow Laces drive and wore a regular captain's armband.</p><p>Ipswich released a statement to express their support for the LGBTQ+ community and say that Morsy's decision was "due to his religious beliefs," according to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cq8q2wwq271o">BBC Sport</a>.</p>

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 28: Noussair Mazraoui of Manchester United during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD5 match between Manchester United and FK Bodo/Glimt at Old Trafford on November 28, 2024 in Manchester, England.

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Report: Man Utd scrapped LGBTQ+ jacket after Mazraoui refused to join in

Arsenal and Manchester United will meet in the third round of the FA Cup after the Premier League...

<p>Arsenal and Manchester United will meet in the third round of the FA Cup after the Premier League foes were drawn against each other Monday.</p><p>League Two's Accrington Stanley will travel to Anfield to take on Premier League leaders Liverpool. Manchester City will host Salford City - whose ownership group features ex-Manchester United players such as David Beckham and Gary Neville - at the Etihad Stadium.</p><p>Of the two non-league teams still standing in the competition, Tamworth were handed the most notable fixture with a visit from Tottenham Hotspur. Dagenham &amp; Redbridge, who compete in the fifth tier with Tamworth, face a trip to Millwall.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Other standout David versus Goliath matches include Bromley playing at Newcastle United and Harrogate Town making the short journey to Leeds United.</p><p>The FA Cup third round will be contested between Jan. 9-13, 2025.</p><h3>Draw in full</h3><ul>
<li>Southampton vs. Swansea City</li>
<li>Arsenal vs. Manchester United</li>
<li>Exeter City vs. Oxford United</li>
<li>Leyton Orient vs. Derby County</li>
<li>Reading vs. Burnley</li>
<li>Aston Villa vs. West Ham United</li>
<li>Norwich City vs. Brighton &amp; Hove Albion</li>
<li>Manchester City vs. Salford City</li>
<li>Millwall vs. Dagenham &amp; Redbridge</li>
<li>Liverpool vs. Accrington Stanley</li>
<li>Bristol City vs. Wolverhampton Wanderers</li>
<li>Preston North End vs. Charlton Athletic</li>
<li>Chelsea vs. Morecambe</li>
<li>Middlesbrough vs. Blackburn Rovers</li>
<li>Bournemouth vs. West Bromwich Albion</li>
<li>Mansfield Town vs. Wigan Athletic</li>
<li>Tamworth vs. Tottenham Hotspur</li>
<li>Hull City vs. Doncaster Rovers</li>
<li>Sunderland vs. Stoke City</li>
<li>Leicester City vs. Queens Park Rangers</li>
<li>Brentford vs. Plymouth Argyle</li>
<li>Coventry City vs. Sheffield Wednesday</li>
<li>Newcastle United vs. Bromley</li>
<li>Everton vs. Peterborough United</li>
<li>Wycombe Wanderers vs. Portsmouth</li>
<li>Birmingham City vs. Lincoln City</li>
<li>Leeds United vs. Harrogate Town</li>
<li>Nottingham Forest vs. Luton Town</li>
<li>Sheffield United vs. Cardiff City</li>
<li>Ipswich Town vs. Bristol Rovers</li>
<li>Fulham vs. Watford</li>
<li>Crystal Palace vs. Stockport County</li>
</ul>

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 25: Manchester United manager Eric Ten Hag (left) and Bruno Fernandes hold the Emirates FA Cup trophy as they celebrate winning the Emirates FA Cup Final match between Manchester City and Manchester United at Wembley Stadium on May 25, 2024 in London, England.

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FA Cup 3rd-round draw: Arsenal to face Man United, Liverpool get Accrington

Mohamed Salah would commit to Liverpool for an extra season despite his frustration over the pace...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/17673" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/17673">Mohamed Salah</a> would commit to Liverpool for an extra season despite his frustration over the pace of contract negotiations with the club, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5962924/2024/12/02/liverpool-mohamed-salah-contract-new/">The Athletic's Simon Hughes</a>.</p><p>The Egyptian attacker, whose current contract expires at the end of the season, is still reportedly waiting to find out Liverpool's stance over the duration and terms written into any potential new deal. He can discuss a pre-contract agreement with clubs outside of England starting Jan. 1, 2025.</p><p>Salah was linked with a free transfer to Paris Saint-Germain next summer but the serial Ligue 1 winners have denied they're in talks with the 32-year-old, Hughes reports. It's understood Salah's uncertain future has alerted other top European clubs.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The former Roma winger has been outspoken about his desire to stay at Liverpool. He <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3139372" href="https://thescore.com/news/3139372">said</a> he was "more out than in" following a win over Southampton on Nov. 24. He then <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3146576" href="https://thescore.com/news/3146576">suggested</a> he was mentally preparing for Sunday's 2-0 win over Manchester City to be the last time he'd face the reigning Premier League champions at Anfield.</p><p>"Honestly, it's in my head," he said after assisting <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///epl/players/102362" href="https://thescore.com/epl/players/102362">Cody Gakpo</a> and converting a penalty to help Liverpool go nine points clear of Arsenal and Chelsea in first place.</p><p>He added, "The atmosphere was incredible, so I will enjoy every second here. Hopefully, we just win the league and will see what will happen."</p>

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 01: (THE SUN OUT, THE SUN ON SUNDAY OUT) Mohamed Salah of Liverpool celebrating after scoring the second goal during the Premier League match between Liverpool FC and Manchester City FC at Anfield on December 01, 2024 in Liverpool, England.

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Report: Salah would accept 1-year contract at Liverpool

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Anthony Lopopolo

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