Category Uncategorized

Manchester United defensive midfielder Casemiro continued his fine form in the 2025/26 campaign with a goal for Brazil against Senegal on international duty on Saturday.

The veteran midfield star has started nine of his ten appearances in the Premier League for Ruben Amorim this season, scoring three goals and providing one assist from the middle of the park.

The Brazil international only started 18 times in the top-flight in the 2024/25 campaign, per Sofascore, but he has emerged as a vital player for the Portuguese boss this term.

Despite his renewed importance to the team, Casemiro turns 34 in February and United may still be on the lookout for the long-term successor to his place in the starting XI.

In September, it was reported that the Red Devils have identified Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba as a priority target, with a deal that could reach a club-record £100m touted for 2026.

However, the Premier League giants should, instead, avoid a swoop to sign the Cameroon international in the January transfer window and next summer.

Why Man Utd should avoid a deal for Carlos Baleba

Manchester United should avoid a deal to sign the defensive midfielder, particularly if the price tag is £100m, because his performances for Brighton have declined from the 2024/25 campaign to the current term.

Baleba won 55% of his ground duels and made 3.7 tackles and interceptions per game in the Premier League last season, per Sofascore, which makes it easy to understand why the club identified him as a possible successor to Casemiro.

The Brazilian star has made 2.7 tackles and interceptions per match and won 58% of his ground duels in the division this term, per Sofascore, and the Brighton ace could have been viewed as a good fit to take his place moving forward.

However, his numbers have declined across the board in the Premier League this season, which suggests that he may not have the consistency that United will need from their stars if they want to compete for the biggest trophies.

Appearances

34

11

Goals

3

0

Tackles + interceptions per game

3.7

2.0

Clearances per game

1.3

1.0

Duels won per game

5.8

3.4

Ground duel success rate

55%

44%

Fouls made per game

1.2

1.5

As you can see in the table above, Baleba has lost the majority of his ground duels in the division and has won fewer duels, made fewer tackles and interceptions, and committed more fouls in comparison to the 2024/25 campaign.

When paying £100m, which would be a club-record fee for United, the Red Devils should want a player who is improving and on the way up, yet the opposite appears to be true of the Brighton midfield.

Man United eyeing move for Premier League midfielder

That is why it should come as good news to supporters that INEOS are reportedly looking at an alternative to Baleba who would be a better option for the club to sign.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

According to reports from Spain, Manchester United are one of a number of clubs interested in a deal to sign Crystal Palace defensive midfielder Adam Wharton in the January transfer window.

The report claims that Real Madrid, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Arsenal are all also keen on the England international, which means that there will be plenty of competition for his signature ahead of the second half of the season.

It adds that any deal for the left-footed star could cost around £88m and that the signs are pointing towards a January exit from Selhurst Park for the former Blackburn Rovers ace.

However, it remains to be seen whether or not Manchester United are willing to pay the £88m that will be required to beat the likes of Real Madrid and Arsenal to his signature.

Why Manchester United should sign Adam Wharton

The Red Devils should push to win the race for Wharton’s services in January because he would be a way better signing than Baleba, who is valued at £12m more than the Englishman.

Unlike Baleba, the 21-year-old star has taken a step forward with his performances in the Premier League for Crystal Palace this season, which shows that he is improving and progressing as a player, rather than regressing.

Appearances

20

9

Big chances created

5

5

Key passes per game

1.3

1.6

Dribble success rate

20%

64%

Tackles made per game

1.7

1.3

Ground duel success rate

49%

53%

Dribbled past per game

1.4x

1.0x

Possession lost per game

10.8x

10.2x

As you can see in the table above, the left-footed midfield maestro has improved in and out of possession, making fewer tackles per game but being more efficient in his attempts to tackle, hence the higher ground duel success rate and fewer times dribbled past per game.

Wharton was hailed as “the best deep-lying English midfielder since Paul Scholes and Michael Carrick” by one CONCACAF B certified coach earlier this year, and it is easy to see why.

Scholes, in particular, was renowned for his exceptional passing from midfield, which led to 82 assists for United (Transfermarkt), and Wharton is cut from a similar cloth.

Per FBref, the Eagles star ranks within the top 1% of midfielders in the top five leagues in Europe and European competitions over the last 365 days for xAG per 90 (0.30) and the top 10% for shot-creating actions per 90 (3.75).

Wharton, like Scholes, is a tempo-setting midfield player who also has the quality to break lines and create chances for his teammates with his impressive passing range.

Whereas Baleba has only created five ‘big chances’ in 91 appearances in all competitions for Brighton, per Sofascore, which suggests that he would not provide the same level of quality on the ball.

Man Utd now eyeing £80m+ Tchouameni deal as fresh Casemiro problem emerges

He could replace the veteran midfielder.

ByTom Cunningham Nov 16, 2025

Therefore, Wharton could be a much better option for United than the Brighton star because he would provide more quality on the ball, whilst arriving as a player who is improving week-on-week, instead of regressing, as Baleba has.

There has been much ado over Chelsea’s credentials as Premier League title challengers this season, but Wednesday evening’s defeat at Leeds United served as a sobering reminder that Arsenal are frustratingly further along in their project.

Enzo Maresca’s multi-title-winning maiden campaign in the Stamford Bridge dugout underscored his capacity to lead the Blues over a number of successful years, and there has been much to like about Chelsea this term.

However, it doesn’t feel like they will get their paws on the league title just yet, with the matchless Moises Caicedo illuminated once again in his absence, suspended for the loss.

The Gunners are nine points ahead at the summit, and Chelsea have improvements still to be made across a number of areas. Central defence is among the priorities, to be sure, with Tosin Adarabioyo’s error-strewn display at Elland Road underscoring that argument.

Tosin's performance vs Leeds

Tosin has faced heavy criticism since blundering late on against Leeds, the ball swept from underneath him by Noah Okafor, leading to Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s late goal to condemn Chelsea to a 3-1 defeat.

This emphasises the need for defensive additions at Chelsea. Maresca has been left with a number of not-quite-perfect options in his rearguard this season, and the 28-year-old Tosin has sadly fallen below expectations, actually winning only one of four duels on the evening. His error was not an isolated incident.

He could do more in the build-up, too. The 28-year-old likes to get on the ball, but he isn’t as progressive as some of his positional peers and this runs counter to the possession-based, flowing football Maresca has implemented.

It’s clear that the former Fulham star needs to be withdrawn from the starting line-up, but Chelsea don’t exactly have an overload of central defensive options, with Levi Colwill still injured and Wesley Fofana in and out of the team.

It will come as no surprise that Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart are gearing up for a big-money move in 2026.

Chelsea lining up Tosin ugrade

According to Football Insider, Chelsea have learned that it is likely to cost them £80m to prise Murillo away from Nottingham Forest next year, with the Brazilian centre-back also attracting the vested interests of Barcelona.

Murillo, 23, is into his third year in the Premier League, and he’s thriving. Instrumental in building Forest up to European contenders, his terrifying physicality and aggressiveness are exactly what Chelsea need.

More to the point, he’s fostering an interesting technical profile, and while Chelsea are eager to complete a deal in January, it may be that they have to wait until the end of the term.

In any case, he would prove an upgrade on Tosin

Why Murillo would be a Tosin upgrade

Murillo just keeps adding layers to his skillset. Hailed as “one of the best defenders in the Premier League” by some experts on Brazilian football.

Curiously, he is not the tallest, standing just shy of 6 feet tall. Nonetheless, Murillo is a force to be reckoned with, a monstrous defensive presence.

And, in spite of the upheaval at Forest this season, he has remained a steely presence in the backline, albeit less creative now that Sean Dyche has settled into his seat.

Murillo’s Premier League Form

Stats (* per game)

24/25

25/26

Matches (starts)

36 (36)

9 (9)

Goals

2

1

Assists

0

0

Clean sheets

11

1

Touches*

55.4

60.1

Accurate passes*

31.4 (80%)

39.1 (83%)

Key passes*

0.4

0.1

Dribbles*

0.8

0.4

Ball recoveries*

3.9

4.4

Tackles + interceptions*

2.5

3.3

Clearances*

6.7

4.6

Duels (won)*

3.6 (60%)

3.4 (66%)

Errors made

4x

0x

Stats via Sofascore

Statistics can be misleading, and though Murillo isn’t directly creating chances for his teammates this season, he remains one of the division’s most dynamic and well-rounded centre-halves, ranking among the top 5% of peers in the Premier League this season for interceptions and blocks, the top 8% for shot-creating actions, the top 12% for progressive passes and the top 5% for successful take-ons per 90, as provided by FBref data.

His enterprising take on the defensive game is something that Tosin simply doesn’t boast in his locker to anywhere near the same standard. Moreover, the 23-year-old is five years Tosin’s junior, and thus has so much scope for growth.

A goalscorer, protector, enforcer and leader, all wrapped into one, there is little question that Murillo would settle into Maresca’s starting line-up at Chelsea, surely at Tosin’s expense.

The English centre-half has been an astute addition after joining Chelsea on a free, but now it is time for that ruthless streak that the west Londoners have shown so many times before.

By implementing that success-first strategy, it will only elevate Maresca’s project.

Related As bad as Tosin: Maresca's 4/10 flop must never start for Chelsea again

Chelsea’s title hopes seemingly went up in smoke away at Leeds United.

Posts ByRobbie Walls Dec 4, 2025

In the almost six years he’s been in charge, Mikel Arteta has helped to transform Arsenal.

He’s led the North Londoners from mid-table mediocrity to genuine Premier League and Champions League contenders.

The Spaniard’s tactical nous and standard-raising philosophy have undoubtedly played a massive part in this turnaround, but so has the club’s recruitment and promotion of youth players, like Bukayo Saka.

The Hale Ender has gone from promising prospect to the face of Arsenal and undoubtedly their most important attacker, although, based on recent reports, the club are looking to sign someone who is playing better than him at the moment.

Arsenal target superstar star attacker outperforming Saka

Since making his debut for Arsenal in a 2018 Europa League group stage match against Ukrainian side Vorskla Poltava, Saka has gone on an incredible journey with the club.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

Despite being moved around the pitch and then spending plenty of time at left-back in his early career, the Englishman has now become the club’s go-to right-winger and the first name on the teamsheet when fit.

In all, the 24-year-old has made 280 appearances for the Gunners, in which he’s racked up a sensational haul of 76 goals and 73 assists, which is an average of a goal involvement every 1.87 games.

However, due in part to his injury, he has performed a little under par this season, and now it looks like the club are looking to sign someone who is outperforming him.

At least, that is according to a recent report from Spain, which claims Arsenal are still very interested in Michael Olise.

In fact, the report has revealed that the Gunners are now preparing an ambitious plan to sign the Bayern Munich star and are willing to break their transfer record to do so, preparing an offer of around €150m, which converts to around £132m.

That’s an outrageous sum of money to spend on a player, but given Olise’s ability and potential, it might just be worth it for Arsenal, especially as he’s outperforming Saka.

How Olise compares to Saka

So, the first thing to say is that it seems highly unlikely that Arsenal would sign Olise to outright replace Saka.

After all, the Hale Ender has become the face of the project and probably the most beloved player of the last 20 years among the fanbase.

Instead, the Frenchman could be looked at as someone to offer competition, or, as has been the case with Noni Madueke, someone who can interchange with the Englishman during games, almost making the idea of a starting position antiquated.

With that said, it’s worth looking at how the pair have stacked up against one another since the Bayern ace’s move to Germany.

Last season, his first in Baveria, saw the 23-year-old rack up a sensational tally of 20 goals and 23 assists in 55 appearances, totalling 3842 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.27 games, or every 89.34 minutes.

Appearances

55

37

Minutes

3842′

2619′

Goals

20

12

Assists

23

14

Goal Involvements per Match

0.78

0.70

Minutes per Goal Involvements

89.34′

100.73

Appearances

20

17

Minutes

1583′

1211′

Goals

9

6

Assists

10

2

Goal Involvements per Match

0.95

0.47

Minutes per Goal Involvements

83.31′

151.37′

In contrast, Saka scored 12 goals and provided 14 assists in 37 appearances, totalling 2619 minutes, which is an average of a goal involvement every 1.42 games, or every 100.73 minutes.

Okay, what about this season then?

Well, the former Crystal Palace star has really taken it up a notch, already scoring nine goals and providing ten assists in 20 appearances, totalling 1583 minutes.

That comes out to a staggering average of a goal involvement every 1.05 games, or every 83.31 minutes, and truly justifies analyst Filipe Sousa’s description of him being a “nightmare” for defenders.

For his efforts this season, the Gunners’ talismanic number seven has scored six goals and provided two assists in 17 appearances, totalling 1211 minutes.

That comes out to a somewhat underwhelming – for his lofty standards – of an average of a goal involvement every 2.12 games, or every 151.37 minutes.

Now, it should be said that he suffered another hamstring injury at the start of the campaign and is clearly still not at 100%, but even so, he would likely admit his output has been a little disappointing this season.

Ultimately, while it would cost an egregious sum of money, Arsenal should do what they can to sign Olise, as he could help get the best back out of Saka, and a team with the pair of them in it is a scary team indeed.

The new Rice: Berta enters race to sign £70m midfield "machine" for Arsenal

The international superstar could become Mikel Arteta’s next Declan Rice at Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Dec 3, 2025

Chasing 152, the openers gave Bangladesh a start of 109 in 11.4 overs, and it turned out to be decisive

Mohammad Isam02-Oct-2025Bangladesh prevailed by four wickets in the first T20I despite Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan’s mid-innings burst of four wickets. Nurul Hasan and Rishad Hossain took Bangladesh home with eight balls remaining. Bangladesh had lost six wickets for nine runs in the space of 25 balls, that too after their openers got them 109 runs in 11.3 overs.Parvez Hossain Emon and Tanzid Hasan both struck fifties, dominating the Afghanistan bowling as they chased 152. Rashid, though, struck four times in two overs, while Fareed Ahmad and Noor Ahmad took a wicket each, as Bangladesh looked down and out at one stage.

Rashid rips through Bangladesh

Fareed had dropped Emon on 27 but he made amends by removing him for 54 off 37 balls in the 12th over. However, Afghanistan barely celebrated the wicket, given the start the Bangladesh openers had provided.Rashid then got the googly zipping through Saif Hassan, whose front-foot prod was not enough to save him. Rashid ended the over with Tanzid’s wicket as the left-hand batter edged the legspinner for 51.Rashid removed both Jaker Ali and Shamim Hossain in his next over, both falling lbw. Jaker missed a sweep, while Shamim went back into the crease to turn the ball around the corner. When Noor also had Tanzim Hasan lbw in the next over, Bangladesh looked out of the contest.

Nurul saves Bangladesh’s blushes

Nurul and Rishad were Bangladesh’s last recognised batters. Rishad, though, had not been in good form while Nurul was reeling from his strange knock against Pakistan in the Asia Cup. But they bounced back with the match-winning stand. Nurul struck two sixes in his unbeaten 23, while Rishad struck the winning runs with his third boundary, as Bangladesh won with eight balls remaining.Rashid Khan picked up four wickets•Afghanistan Cricket Board

Bangladesh strike early with the ball

Bangladesh didn’t lose shape when they bowled during the powerplay, despite Taskin Ahmed going for three fours in the first over. Nasum Ahmed bowled Ibrahim Zadran as the batter went for a slog. Tanzim Hasan got on to rear towards Sediqullah Atal’s chest, for the batter to give a tame catch to Emon at slip.Darwish Rasooli was a victim of a huge mix-up with Rahmanullah Gurbaz when Mustafizur Rahman stopped the ball off his own bowling, with both batters next to each other at the non-striker’s end. Rasooli sacrificed his wicket, as Afghanistan lost three wickets in the powerplay. There was no respite after the powerplay either, as Mohammad Ishaq holed out to deep square leg in Rishad’s first over.

Emon, Tanzid make merry

Bangladesh’s innings kicked off when Emon struck Mohammad Nabi for 16 runs in the fifth over. Rubbing salt into the wounds were two dropped catches in the over. Emon slammed a six off the first ball, before being dropped by Gurbaz on the fourth ball. The batter launched the next ball over midwicket for another six, before Fareed dropped a straightforward catch off the last ball.Tanzid, who returned after being dropped for the last two games, got into the act soon afterwards. He hammered a huge six off Nabi in the seventh over, followed by a second one off Noor in the following over. Both openers hit a six each off Sharafuddin Ashraf in the tenth over before bringing up Bangladesh’s first century stand for any wicket against Afghanistan. Afghanistan did make a comeback from there but could not convert it into a win.

The MLB All-Star break is almost here, which means we are already past the halfway point of baseball’s marathon regular season. And what a season it’s been. Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani continue to amaze. Seattle Mariners catcher Cal Raleigh is doing things no backstop has ever done. Tarik Skubal has separated himself as the best pitcher in baseball. As the woeful Colorado Rockies continue to trend towards the worst kind of MLB history, they—and a few other teams—parted ways with their manager during the first half. Oh, and the Los Angeles Dodgers and Detroit Tigers have emerged as early World Series favorites. 

Baseball’s biggest stars will take center stage at the Home Run Derby and All-Star Game on July 14 and 15, respectively, and that will be our focus here in another edition of Fact or Fiction. 

Paul Skenes should be the National League’s starting pitcher for the second straight year

Verdict: Fiction

This is a tough one. The honor could realistically go to one of three guys: Skenes, Zack Wheeler or perhaps even longtime Los Angeles Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw, an addition to the roster as a “Legend Pick,” if NL manager Dave Roberts is feeling particularly partisan. 

But if we’re being realistic, this decision will come down to Skenes and Wheeler. And in many ways, it’s a toss-up. Skenes leads the NL in ERA. Wheeler, second in the NL in ERA, leads the league in strikeouts. Wheeler, as a result of playing for the better team in the Phillies, has racked up nine wins compared to Skenes’s four. But the margin between these pitchers is razor thin, as evidenced by their ERAs (Skenes: 1.94, Wheeler: 2.17) and WAR (Skenes: 4.8, Wheeler: 4.8). 

I’m giving the slight edge to Wheeler. Since May 1, Wheeler has been the undisputed best pitcher in his league. He leads all NL starting pitchers in the following categories since that date: ERA, K-BB%, opponents’ batting average, WHIP and opponents’ barrel rate. To put it simply, he’s been unhittable. 

Look no further than Wheeler’s most recent start, a complete game one-hitter in which he allowed one run and struck out 12 Cincinnati Reds. It put a bow on a convincing case for Wheeler to toe the rubber for the NL. 

I’d typically be the first guy to advocate for Skenes to start again. Who want to see him face off against Aaron Judge and Cal Raleigh back-to-back, depending on how American League manager Aaron Boone writes up the lineup card?

But the honor should go to Wheeler, not only for his success this season, but his overall body of work over the last several years. Plus, at 35 years old, this may realistically be the last shot he has at starting the All-Star Game. 

Roberts should give Wheeler that shot. And if given the chance, Wheeler will be the first pitcher on the mound for the NL on July 15 at Truist Park, just a few miles away from where the Smyrna, Ga., native grew up. 

Cal Raleigh will win the Home Run Derby

Verdict: Fact

I have, admittedly, been a bit doubtful of Raleigh’s ability to keep up his torrid pace in past iterations of Fact or Fiction. So consider this a mea culpa of sorts to the Big Dumper’s success. 

Before I outline why I like Raleigh to win here, let me be clear about one thing. The field for the Derby is not fully set yet, so we don’t yet know exactly who will be opposing Raleigh aside from Ronald Acuna Jr., James Wood, Byron Buxton and Oneil Cruz.

That said, I like Raleigh to emerge here for several reasons. Aside from the fact that he’s been the best home-run hitter in baseball in the first half, he also leads all Derby contestants—regardless of who enters—in several statistics that are highly predictive of home runs. He owns a Derby-best .372 isolated power. He leads all of MLB in fly-ball rate. Raleigh trails only Cruz in barrel rate, essentially the number of baseballs he connects with that are hit at the ideal exit velocity and launch angle to leave the park. And lastly, Raleigh’s MLB-high average launch angle of 24.5 degrees is right near the typical sweet spot of 25 to 35 degrees for home runs. 

His swing is also perfect for Truist Park, which features especially short dimensions to the corners. In fact, Truist Park’s 335-foot left field corner and 325-foot right field dimensions are extremely similar to those of Raleigh’s home park with the Mariners, T-Mobile Park, which is 331 feet to left and 327 feet to right. 

That would seem to play right into the hands of Raleigh, who leads all Derby entrants with a 55.2% pull rate. This means that no one in the Derby will be better equipped to take advantage of the shortest parts of Truist Park than Raleigh, who will have the added benefit of batting from both sides of the plate, which he apparently intends to do. 

Working against Raleigh is the fact that he’s a catcher—no backstop has ever won the Derby. But he’s already doing things no other catcher has ever done. Why not add another to the list? 

Juan Soto is the biggest All-Star snub

Verdict: Fact

Another tough one, because there were, as always, plenty of snubs (it’s tough to please everyone!). There’s Chicago Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki, who leads MLB in RBIs. There’s Houston Astros southpaw Framber Valdez, who ranks among the top 20 starters in ERA, quality starts, innings pitched and WAR. And there’s Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Trea Turner, the NL leader in hits and one of the best defensive shortstops in the game. 

But the biggest snub of them all is Juan Soto. 

The first two months of Soto’s career in Queens were underwhelming, as he was on pace for the worst OPS of his career while simply looking… off, both in terms of his approach at the plate and his demeanor. Those days are long gone, though. After a torrid June and red-hot start to July, Soto ranks third in MLB in OBP and sixth in the NL in OPS. 

Since May 1, Soto ranks first in walk rate, sixth in OPS, fourth in wRC+, and in the top five in average exit velocity, barrel rate and hard-hit rate. He’s been a terror to opposing pitchers. 

Soto likely didn’t make it because of his lackluster start, as well as the Mets’ June swoon. But it’ll be unfortunate to play a game that supposedly features baseball’s biggest stars without Juan Soto on the field. 

The Blue Jays will win the AL East

Verdict: Fiction 

How about those Blue Jays? They’ve won nine games in a row entering Tuesday and recently swept the New York Yankees in a four-game series to overtake them for first place in the AL East. But this has been far from just a hot streak for Toronto. 

Since May 25, the Blue Jays own the best record in baseball and have been powered by a mighty offense that has scored more runs than all but one team during that stretch of play. 

So, to be clear, this is no fluke. But there are at least a couple of reasons why some healthy skepticism about the Blue Jays’ chances of winning the AL East is warranted. 

Toronto currently has a plus-16 run differential, which is the worst of any current division leader in MLB. In fact, that plus-16 run differential is just the fourth-best in the AL East, behind the Yankees, Tampa Bay Rays and Boston Red Sox. The Blue Jays’ Pythagorean win/loss record is 47–44. The club’s actual record? 53–38. Could there be some regression to the mean incoming for the Blue Jays? It’s possible. 

The other reason I’m a bit leery to anoint them atop the AL East right now is that the Blue Jays’ starting pitching is suspect. Toronto’s starters have compiled the sixth-worst ERA in the majors. Conversely, both the Rays and Yankees have better and more reliable starting pitching staffs. Perhaps the Blue Jays’ front office swings a deadline deal for a top-of-the-rotation starter. Maybe that tilts the race in their favor. But for now, if asked to bet on the Blue Jays or the field winning the AL East, I’ll take the field. 

Manny Machado’s 2000th hit secured his Hall of Fame enshrinement

Verdict: Fiction

is a bit strong for my taste, but that’s the only thing holding me back from calling this a fact. Machado is on the statistical path to the Hall of Fame, and 2,000 hits was an important checkpoint. 

Consider this. There are 19 third baseman in the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Only 14 of them compiled at least 2,000 career hits. Machado, 33 and with eight years left on his San Diego Padres contract, already has 2,001 and counting. Of the five third basemen who have ever hit 400 or more career home runs, four are in the Hall. Machado, who currently has 357 career homers, will almost certainly surpass 400 and already ranks 10th at his position.  

The remarkably durable Machado, who has nine times played 150 or more games in a season, could, with continued good health, realistically flirt with 3,000 hits and 500 career homers, numbers that would ensure a one-way ticket to the Hall. Even if he were to fall short of those landmark numbers—think 2,700 hits and 450 career homers—I still like Machado’s chances. 

So, too, do the advanced metrics. In both WAR and JAWS (a metric that compares players to those already enshrined in the Hall of Fame using career WAR and seven-year peak WAR), Machado is already approaching Hall of Fame territory. 

The numbers are working in Machado’s case. What isn’t is the fact that he’s never won an MVP, often considered a good prerequisite to the Hall, despite having four top-five finishes. There’s also a chance that Machado rubbed some of the baseball writers the wrong way with his views on hustling. He once rather infamously said that hustling was “not his cup of tea” after he came under fire for not running out a grounder during the 2018 National League Championship Series. Would 33-year-old Machado make the same comments? Who knows. However, it’s fair to wonder if that will be held against him, as some might view that attitude as not very becoming of a Hall of Fame player. 

But it’ll be hard to keep Machado out if he reaches certain statistical milestones. And if he continues his remarkably consistent statistical compiling, it’ll be easy to envision him one day being enshrined. 

Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson has told the franchise he wants to be released ahead of the upcoming auction for IPL 2026. ESPNcricinfo learned that Samson informed the RR management of his intention immediately after IPL 2025 ended.RR, which had its 2025 season review meetings in June, has not yet given Samson a definitive answer and the option of convincing him to stay with the team is still open. The franchise’s lead owner Manoj Badale offered no comment when asked about the development. The final decision will be taken by him in coordination with RR head coach Rahul Dravid.If RR decide to release Samson, they could either trade him to another franchise or send him into the auction. As per the IPL contract, the final say in such cases lies with the franchise. As far as a trade is concerned, it could be a player swap or an all-cash deal.Samson, 30, first played for RR for three seasons from IPL 2013 to 2015, and then rejoined them in 2018 after two years at Delhi Daredevils. He was appointed captain in 2021 and, in 2022, led RR to the IPL final for the first time since they won the inaugural edition in 2008. However, two of their key players – Jos Buttler and Yuzvendra Chahal, who won the Orange and Purple caps in 2022 – were released ahead of the 2025 mega auction.Related

• Kumar Sangakkara back to helm Rajasthan Royals' coaching staff

• Head coach Dravid parts ways with Rajasthan Royals after just one season

• R Ashwin asks CSK for clarity ahead of IPL 2026

• Samson returns to Kerala cricket with record KCL signing

Samson was one of six players retained by RR ahead of last year’s mega auction; his price was INR 18 crore ($2.14 million approx. then). The other players retained were Yashasvi Jaiswal, Parag, Dhruv Jurel, Sandeep Sharma and Shimron Hetmyer. Samson played only nine of RR’s 14 matches in IPL 2025 due to a side strain, with Riyan Parag standing in as captain.They finished ninth with just four wins.ESPNcricinfo learned that Samson is currently at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru for a routine training programme designed for a targeted pool of players shortlisted by the national selectors. He will likely be picked for the Asia Cup which starts in the UAE from September 9. Before that Samson will play a few matches in the Kerala Cricket League where he was recently picked by Kochi Blue Tigers for INR 26.8 lakh, making him the most expensive player in the tournament.RR have another two months to make a decision on Samson before the IPL’s retention deadline in November.

Arsenal suffered a devastating 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa at Villa Park on Saturday lunchtime, surrendering their five-point lead atop the Premier League table in dramatic fashion.

Emiliano Buendia’s stoppage-time winner completed a remarkable comeback for Unai Emery’s side, dealing a significant blow to the Gunners’ title aspirations.

Matty Cash gave Villa a deserved first-half lead with a thunderous finish at the back post in the 36th minute, capitalizing on Arsenal’s struggles to contain the hosts’ energetic pressing.

The right-back’s half-volley from a deflected cross caught David Raya off guard, sending Villa Park into raptures and rewarding the home side’s dominant opening period.

Mikel Arteta responded decisively at the interval, introducing Leandro Trossard and Viktor Gyokeres for the ineffective Eberechi Eze and Mikel Merino.

Aston Villa now want to tempt Chelsea summer signing with surprise January move

It would be a head turner.

ByEmilio Galantini 7 days ago

The Belgian substitute made an immediate impact just seven minutes into the second half, converting a rebound after Emiliano Martínez could only parry Bukayo Saka’s initial effort. Trossard’s poacher’s instinct at the back post hauled Arsenal level and appeared to shift momentum decisively in the visitors’ favour.

Arsenal dominated possession throughout the second period, creating numerous opportunities to snatch victory. Noni Madueke struck the side netting late on when well-positioned, while Declan Rice orchestrated attacks from deep despite struggling with the calf complaint that troubled him against Brentford midweek.

However, Villa refused to surrender tamely.

Emery’s tactical substitution proved inspired as Buendia replaced Matty Cash in the 85th minute, pushing the hosts into a more aggressive attacking shape with Lamare Bogarde dropping to right-back.

The Argentinian playmaker delivered the decisive intervention deep into stoppage time, reacting quickest to a loose ball inside Arsenal’s penalty area and firing home to secure all three points.

The defeat represents Arsenal’s second loss of the campaign and ends their 18-match unbeaten run across all competitions. More significantly, it allows Man City the opportunity to reduce the gap at the summit to just two points, should they defeat Sunderland later today.

Emiliano Martínez

7.8

Declan Rice

7.7

Matty Cash

7.5

Boubacar Kamara

7.5

Martin Odegaard

7.2

via WhoScored

For Villa, the victory extends their remarkable home form to just one defeat in their last 25 league matches at Villa Park, maintaining their challenge for Champions League qualification while sitting third in the table.

It also begs the question, are Emery’s men now genuine title contenders?

Stuart Pearce says Youri Tielemans stole the show against Arsenal

With that debate now set to rumble on, former England defender Stuart Pearce has picked out one Villa star to thank for an absolutely incredible afternoon for Emery in the Midlands.

Commenting on the game for talkSPORT, Pearce named his Player of the Match — £150,000-per-week midfielder Youri Tielemans.

The Belgian international apparently stole the show against Arsenal, with Pearce calling his display in the engine room ‘outstanding’.

Tielemans, who is out of contract in 2027, has just made a firm case to the Villa hierarchy when it comes to his long-term future.

The 28-year-old returned to full fitness fairly recently after missing six league games with a calf problem and was left out of the starting eleven for Villa’s thrilling 4-3 win at Brighton.

Emery’s decision to start Tielemans today was a masterful decision, and that performance will give the player huge confidence ahead of Villa’s trips to FC Basel and West Ham.

The start of this season couldn’t have gone much better for Tottenham Hotspur, with convincing wins over Burnley and Manchester City.

However, in the months since, things have really gone off the rails for Thomas Frank and his side.

They currently sit 16th in the Champions League and, following their dismal defeat at the hands of Fulham on Saturday night, 11th in the Premier League.

Frank looked bereft of ideas against the West Londoners, and his team appeared all at sea, including one player who could be in danger of becoming their new Serge Aurier.

Spurs' worst players against Fulham

Aside from maybe Micky Van de Ven for his goalsaving tackle and Randal Kolo Muani for his general play, there were dismal displays across the entire Spurs starting lineup.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

The player who has received the most stick during and after the game is undoubtedly Guglielmo Vicario.

The Italian goalkeeper was the main culprit for the visitors’ second goal, with him rushing out to intercept a long ball, kicking it into danger and then being way out of the penalty area when Harry Wilson curled the ball into the net.

Such a costly blunder, and the fact that the team were 2-0 down in just the sixth minute, led to sections of the home support booing the former Emploi man at every touch.

While not responsible for conceding a goal, Richarlison was another Lilywhites ace who was practically useless on the night.

In his 60 minutes of action, he offered no threat at all, producing an expected goals figure of 0.00 and completing just six of his nine passes.

Moreover, while he took 21 touches, he ended up losing possession nine times, which helps to justify the 3/10 match rating he received from the Standard’s Matt Verri.

It was also a poor showing for Kevin Danso, who was second best to Raul Jimenez throughout the game, and it was his headed clearance that led to the opening goal.

Unfortunately for Frank and the fans, another starter put in a horror display against the Cottagers and could end up becoming the Spurs’ next Aurier if he’s not careful.

Spurs' new Serge Aurier

It was clear that Aurier was a talented player during his stint with Spurs, but what was also clear was that he was error-prone and became something of a scapegoat.

After all, he got sent off on his Premier League debut, and it was his foul that led to Manchester City’s winning free-kick in the 2021 League Cup final.

After that mistake, Jamie Carragher described him as “one of the biggest liabilities in Premier League football.”

The Ivorian left the club that summer, and unfortunately, it feels like Pedro Porro could be becoming the new version of him.

Now, to be clear, the Spanish full-back, originally signed on loan by Antonio Conte, is a hugely talented footballer and someone who is capable of delivering a brilliant cross at times.

However, he has become a growing concern for North Londoners over the last season or so, both offensively and defensively, with the game against Fulham a perfect example.

In his 94 minutes on the pitch, he lost 100% of his aerial duels, lost five of eight ground duels, was dribbled past three times, was accurate in just three of 16 crosses, failed in 100% of his dribbles and completed only 62% of his long balls.

Minutes

94′

Ground Duels (Won)

8 (3)

Aerial Duels (Won)

3 (0)

Dribbled Past

3

Crosses (Accurate)

16 (3)

Dribbles (Successful)

2 (0)

Long Balls

8/13

In short, it was a poor attacking display and a truly horrendous defensive one, which more than justifies Verri’s match rating of 4/10 and description of him looking a ‘nervous wreck at the back.’

As if that wasn’t enough, he then proceeded to throw his shirt to the floor and storm off the pitch when the full-time whistle went, in what journalist Mitch Fretton described as “absolute embarrassment.”

It’s this combination of yet another poor performance and the petulance afterward that makes it hard not to think of the former Ivorian international.

Ultimately, Porro is still a talented player and could turn things around, but it’s been some time since fans have seen him at his best, and that display against Fulham was more than worrying.

New Soldado: Frank must bin Spurs flop who had fewer touches than Vicario

Tottenham Hotspur manager Thomas Frank must drop this flop who is becoming the new Roberto Soldado.

ByDan Emery Nov 30, 2025

While they are still some way from being the finished article, Chelsea have built a squad full of incredible players over the last few years.

The likes of Moises Caicedo, Cole Palmer, Marc Cucurella, and probably even Enzo Fernández would be able to get into most Premier League teams.

However, at the same time, West Londoners also have more than a few players who are arguably holding them back, with Tosin Adarabioyo perhaps the most obvious example over the last few weeks.

The former Fulham star has been at the centre of more than a few dire defensive performances for Chelsea, so it’s not all that surprising to see reports linking them to someone who’d be a dream upgrade.

Chelsea target Tosin upgrade

While talk of a title race might be a tad premature for Chelsea this season, they are most certainly in a race for the Champions League place.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

With that in mind, it’s unsurprising to see them linked with a plethora of talented players ahead of the transfer window reopening next month.

For example, the Blues are among several Premier League sides who have shown real interest in RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande and have also been linked with Juventus’ Kenan Yıldız.

However, while hugely talented, neither of those exciting wingers would help solve the West Londoners’ defensive problems, nor send Tosin packing, unlike Castello Lukeba.

Yes, according to a recent report from TEAMtalk, Chelsea have maintained their intense interest in the French centre-back.

In fact, the report goes further, revealing that the Blues are now ready to submit a bid of up to £52m for the player in the coming weeks.

Interestingly, while the 22-year-old has a release clause worth around €80million in his contract, which is £70m, the report claims that Leipzig may be willing to cash in on the player for that £52m fee in January.

However, it might not be all that straightforward, as the story also states that Bayern Munich are keen to make a mid-season move for the highly rated defender.

In all, it could be a costly and complicated transfer to get over the line, but given Lukeba’s ability and potential, one Chelsea should be pursuing, especially as he could send Tosin packing.

How Lukeba compares to Tosin

Now, when it comes to midfielders, forwards and wingers, it can be relatively straightforward to compare players, as more often than not, their goals and assists are going to be what matters most.

However, when it comes to defenders, and centre-backs in particular, it can be a little trickier, and as a result, you have to go into more detail, you have to take a look under the hood at their underlying numbers.

Unfortunately for Tosin, doing so demonstrates just how far ahead of him Lukeba is.

Lukeba vs Tosin
Statistics per 90	Lukeba	Tosin
Non-Penalty Expected G+As	0.10	0.02
Progressive Passes	4.17	2.90
Progressive Carries	0.83	0.48
Key Passes	0.33	0.00
Shot-Creating Actions	1.25	0.48
Goal-Creating Actions	0.17	0.00
Blocks	1.92	0.65
Interceptions	1.58	0.97
Clearances	5.67	6.77
Successful Take-Ons	1.00	0.00
Ball Recoveries	5.67	2.58
All Stats via FBref for the 25/26 League Season

For example, according to FBref, the Frenchman comes out on top in the vast majority of relevant metrics, including, but not limited to, blocks, interceptions, and ball recoveries, all per 90.

In other words, as analyst-turned-scout Ben Mattinson puts it, the Frenchman is a “defensively exceptional” centre-back.

However, his advantages over Tosin extend to more than just his ability off the ball.

For example, the “outstanding” titan, per Mattinson, also comes out on top in metrics like progressive passes and carries, shot and goal-creating actions, key passes, successful take-ons and more, all per 90.

Essentially, the Leipzig star is someone who can snuff out an opposition attack and then, either through his carrying ability or range of passing, kickstart one for his own side.

Ultimately, from every conceivable angle, it’s clear that Lukeba would be a massive upgrade on Tosin and, therefore, Chelsea should do all they can to sign him in January.

Gittens upgrade: BlueCo convinced they must sign £87m star for Chelsea

The sensational superstar in the making would be an incredible signing for Chelsea, but bad news for Gittens.

By
Jack Salveson Holmes

1 day ago

Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez is in contention to face Crystal Palace on Sunday having returned to full fitness following a lengthy injury layoff. The Argentine suffered an ACL injury against Palace at Old Trafford back in February. Having made the matchday squad against Everton on Monday, Ruben Amorim has confirmed that signals his availability moving forward.

United looking to bounce back from Everton loss

United are looking to return to winning ways following Monday's 1-0 loss to rivals Everton. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall's thundering first half strike was enough to separate the two sides at Old Trafford as United failed to break the Everton resolve, this despite Idrissa Gueye's early sending off for fighting with Toffees team-mate Michael Keane.

The result ended United's five-game unbeaten run and they have now failed to win their last three matches, following up respective 2-2 draws at Nottingham Forest and Tottenham with Monday's loss. A trip to Palace will be no easy task for United, however, as the Manchester side look to end a five-game winless streak at Selhurst Park.

Palace, who lost to Ligue 1 side Strasbourg in the UEFA Conference League on Thursday night, have been solid at home this season, losing just one of 10 games in south London. Martinez's return, though, is a boost for United, with Amorim confirming the Argentine centre-back is in line to play for the first time in 10 months.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportMartinez 'is ready' to face Palace on Sunday

Amorim was asked by whether Martinez was ready to play against Palace on Sunday, to which he replied: "If he is on the bench, he is ready. Of course, we need to control his minutes but, if he is on the bench, he is ready to play."

Martinez's return to fitness should help United as they look to return to European football this season. United finished 15th in 2024-25, marking their worst Premier League campaign, while a 1-0 loss to Spurs in the Europa League final May meant they missed out on Champions League qualification.

That said, United make the trip to the capital in 10th place following Monday's defeat to Everton, as little as three points off the top four ahead of the weekend's Premier League action.

Cunha among missing players for United

Amorim still remains without three key players for Sunday's game at Palace. The United boss had hoped to have summer signing Matheus Cunha available for selection after the Brazilian missed Monday's welcome of Everton having suffered a knock in training.

However, Cunha will miss the game against Palace, but Amorim confirmed that the former Wolves man could be back for the subsequent midweek game against West Ham. "I expect to have Matheus in the next one, not this one," the United boss said in the week.

Additionally, striker Benjamin Sesko and centre-back Harry Maguire will both sit out the Selhurst Park showdown with Amorim stating: "Sesko is going to take a little bit more time. It will take a little bit longer and we are taking care of him. Harry, the same."

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting

Getty Images SportGuehi returns to boost Palace

Palace boss Oliver Glasner, meanwhile, has confirmed that captain Marc Guehi will be fit to face United on Sunday. The centre-back was withdrawn at the break in Thursday's 2-1 loss to Strasbourg, but the Austrian insists that Guehi will start against United this weekend.

"Marc was just planned before because he couldn't train for two-and-a-half weeks," explained Glasner. "He had the 90 minutes last week [in the win at Wolves] and, of course, he should play and will play against Manchester United. That's why we had to manage the minutes, so no issues with Marc."

Borna Sosa will sit out the game but Will Hughes, who was withdrawn after just half an hour in midweek, should be fine to feature. "Borna will miss this game again," Glasner continued. "Will just overstretched his knee. Let's see. We will assess him but it doesn't look that bad.

"Will doesn't look so bad so we're very hopeful that he'll be in the matchday squad. All the others are fine. Of course, we came back late but we already watched Man United in preparation and that's the rhythm we are in now until the middle of January."