All posts by h716a5.icu

Bayern Munich chief Max Eberl has seemingly confirmed that the club will pursue a move for Crystal Palace and England defender Marc Guehi as the German champions look to bolster their backline. Guehi, who is in the final year of his existing deal at Selhurst Park, has been linked with a move away from the club next summer as a free agent, with clubs including Liverpool and Inter in the race to sign him.

Bayern Munich officials met Guehi's agent

Sky Germany journalist reported on Friday that Bayern’s sporting director Max Eberl held discussions earlier this week with Guehi's agent Gordon Stipic to assess the terms of a potential deal. The Bundesliga champions are preparing for defensive changes, with uncertainty over star defender Dayot Upamecano’s contract extension and the possibility of South Korea international Kim Min-jae being sold. 

The meeting showcased the Bavarian club’s first significant step toward securing the England international, who is set to leave Crystal Palace after rejecting a new contract in the summer. With his current deal expiring in 2026, his refusal to renew his deal makes an exit inevitable next summer. Guehi could also be sold for a minimal fee in January’s winter transfer window.

Advertisement(C)Getty ImagesEberl sends strong message on Guehi interest

When asked about Bayern's discussion with Guehi's representatives, sporting director Eberl told : "It's absolutely clear that we as Bayern Munich are exploring the market. Our clear goal is to extend Upa's contract. That's our ultimate goal. If that doesn't work out, we have to be prepared. We would be foolish not to. That's the reason. I've not confirmed anything, but we are active in the market."

Glasner confirmed Guehi will leave Palace

Earlier this month, Palace boss Oliver Glasner had revealed that Guehi is almost certain to exit Selhurst Park after he refused to put pen to paper on a new contract. Glasner had said: "I think Marc has already told us that he doesn't sign a new contract, so he will leave next year. The club wanted [him to stay]. They offered Marc a new contract. But he said, 'no, I want to make something different'. And that's normal. And for us, it's how we can deal with this situation? [What] is the best way to get this next step done? And that's all about how we are talking together."

further reported that Palace might consider selling Guehi for a nominal fee to a European club in the upcoming January transfer window to make as much money as possible from the deal to further finance their transfers. The London club were initially happy to allow the centre-back to run down his contract but they are now planning to make more additions to their squad in January and for that, they would need funds, which Guehi's transfer will enable. Glasner's side are currently ninth in the Premier League table, with their only defeat coming against Everton in a result which ended a remarkable 19-game unbeaten run across all competitions.

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

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

Getty Images SportLiverpool remain in hunt for Guehi but will face stiff competition

Among the Premier League clubs, Liverpool have remained the front-runners to sign Guehi since the summer. During the last transfer window, the Reds pushed till the very end to secure a transfer for the Englishman but Palace were determined to retain his services, especially after key attacker Eberechi Eze left for Arsenal. The Reds continue to remain interested in the defender amid concerns over Ibrahima Konate's future at the club, as the Frenchman is yet to sign a new deal and has also been targeted by Spanish Real Madrid.

If Konate leaves next season, the English champions will have to find a suitable centre-back who can pair up with Virgil van Dijk, while also replacing the experienced Dutch defender as the leader of the backline in future. However, Liverpool will face stiff competition from clubs across Europe. have reported that Serie A giants Inter are the latest club to enter the race to land the coveted signature of Guehi. The Nerazzurri are planning to propose a January transfer exchange involving Yann Bisseck. The Koln-born defender was approached by Palace in the summer, as the English side tabled a €35 million (£30m/$41m) offer. Both the Italian side and the player rejected the proposal, with Bisseck opting to continue at Inter after making 46 appearances last season.

Gujarat Titans will have their full set of overseas players available when the IPL resumes on May 17, with Coetzee also set to link up

Nagraj Gollapudi13-May-20253:27

What’s brought about the resurgence of spin in IPL 2025?

England batter Jos Buttler and South Africa fast bowler Gerald Coetzee will rejoin the Gujarat Titans squad on Wednesday, May 14, ahead of the resumption of IPL 2025 on May 17.They were the only two overseas players from the GT squad to have left India after the IPL was suspended for a week on May 9 due to cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan. Their other overseas players – Rashid Khan, Sherfane Rutherford, Kagiso Rabada and Karim Janat – had stayed with the rest of the squad in India.Rutherford, however, had been named in the West Indies ODI squad for the series in England from May 29 to June 3, which will clash with the playoffs of IPL 2025. With Buttler named in England’s white-ball squads, there are chances that he could miss the playoffs. “We’re keen to support the IPL and the BCCI in getting the schedule up and running, and to facilitate players’ return should they choose to go back,” an ECB spokesperson said on Tuesday after the squad announcement.Related

IPL 2025 to resume on May 17, final to be played on June 3

IPL 2025 scenarios: GT and RCB one win away from playoffs, MI in control of their fate

GT, who are the leading the points table currently with 16 points – ahead of Royal Challengers Bengaluru on net run rate – have three matches left in the league phase. They were the first team to resume training once the ceasefire between the two countries was announced on May 10, paving the way for the IPL’s resumption.Their next match is on May 18 against Delhi Capitals in Delhi and they finish the league phase with two home matches in Ahmedabad: against Lucknow Super Giants on May 22 and against Chennai Super Kings on May 25.The IPL released the revised schedule for the remainder of the season on Monday: there are 13 league games to go, in addition to the four playoff fixtures. The rest of the league phase will be played at six venues – Delhi, Jaipur, Lucknow, Ahmedabad, Mumbai and Bengaluru – while the venues for the playoffs have not yet been announced. The dates for the playoffs are as follows: Qualifier 1 on May 29, the Eliminator on May 30, Qualifier 2 on June 1 and the final on June 3. 2:35pm GMT – Amended after England’s squad announcement for the West Indies series

Coleen Rooney has taken a fresh swipe at her former friend Rebekah Vardy by cashing in on their infamous Wagatha Christie feud once again. The 39-year-old WAG stars in a new Paddy Power advert, reviving her viral catchphrase from the court case that captivated the nation — “It’s…  Rebekah Vardy’s account.”

Coleen's newest swipe

Coleen has reignited her Wagatha Christie fame by starring in a new Paddy Power advert alongside Danny Dyer, Peter Crouch and Gemma Collins. The commercial cleverly references her detective-style revelation from 2019, when she accused Rebekah Vardy of leaking stories from her private Instagram account. In the advert, Dyer plays a casino boss who receives a text from Coleen reading “It’s… Gemma Collins,” a direct nod to her now-legendary post that broke the internet.

AdvertisementGetty Images EntertainmentWagatha Christie

The campaign marks another chapter in Coleen’s ability to turn a moment of public scandal into long-term personal success. Her original 2019 accusation sent shockwaves through the celebrity world and social media, coining the now-iconic “Wagatha Christie” nickname and sparking one of Britain’s most talked-about libel trials. Despite intense scrutiny and the emotional toll of the case, Coleen emerged vindicated — while Rebekah’s reputation suffered significantly following the High Court ruling.

Rebekah, who is married to former Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy, was ordered to pay 90 percent of Coleen’s £1.4 million legal costs after Mrs Justice Steyn found that Coleen’s claims were “substantially true.” The fallout left Rebekah’s finances and public image in disarray, while Coleen’s brand power soared. Since then, the mother of four has managed to convert what could have been a career setback into an empire — balancing her public image as both a family figure and a business-savvy celebrity who knows how to command attention.

Paddy Power's cheeky idea

The new Paddy Power advert cleverly builds on Coleen’s renewed popularity, drawing heavily from her real-life role as a “silent assassin” in the courtroom saga. Featuring her alongside big personalities like Dyer, Collins, and Crouch, the commercial playfully leans into the humour and intrigue that made the Wagatha saga unforgettable. A TV insider told The Sun: “Even after all these years, people are obsessed with the Wagatha Christie case and Coleen’s detective work. The whole ordeal was a nightmare for Coleen at the time but she’s since made a lot of money from the experience and is happy to capitalise on it.”

It’s the second time Paddy Power has tapped into her pop culture legacy, following an earlier viral sketch where she “investigated” Manchester City’s Financial Fair Play breaches. The brand’s decision to bring her back underscores how Coleen’s story has transcended gossip pages and become a cornerstone of British entertainment culture. Her natural charisma, combined with a sharp sense of humour about her public persona, makes her a perfect fit for the tongue-in-cheek world of Paddy Power’s marketing.

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

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

GettyWhat comes next?

Coleen’s growing influence in media and advertising suggests her “detective” brand has more staying power than anyone expected. After turning the courtroom drama into a hit Disney+ documentary, Coleen Rooney: The Real Wagatha Story, she continues to branch out — from celebrity TV appearances to lucrative commercial deals. Her foray into I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! further solidified her as a relatable and self-aware figure who’s comfortable laughing at her own past while staying firmly in control of her narrative.

Reflecting on her latest role, Coleen said: “I’ve been watching the same game almost my entire life, so it’s nice to have a bit of variety for once. I loved getting dressed up and stepping into the madness of a Paddy Power casino world – Danny played the role of casino boss perfectly, plus I got to reprise my role as head of investigations… what more could you want!” If her latest campaign is any indication, Coleen Rooney’s evolution from footballer’s wife to media mainstay shows no signs of slowing down — and her ability to blend humour, humility, and brand power keeps her firmly in the public spotlight.

Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett was left “simply astounded” by Jarred Gillett and VAR during Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Newcastle United on Sunday.

Gunners put pressure on Liverpool with dramatic late win

With Liverpool losing 2-1 at Crystal Palace on Saturday, the Gunners were presented with a golden opportunity to close the gap at the top of the Premier League table to just two points, and they made no mistake, despite leaving it late at St. James’ Park.

Mikel Arteta’s side were trailing 1-0 heading into the final five minutes of normal time, before goals from Mikel Merino and Gabriel turned the game on its head, securing what could prove to be a vital three points come May.

Arsenal's "colossal" star is the modern-day Patrick Vieira & it's not Rice

The modern-day Patrick Vieira may well have been found at Arsenal.

ByMatt Dawson Sep 29, 2025

The game wasn’t without its controversy, however, with Bukayo Saka criticising Gillett’s decision to overturn a penalty awarded after Viktor Gyokeres was brought down, following intervention from VAR.

Hackett shares Saka’s frustrations, telling Football Insider that he couldn’t believe the penalty decision wasn’t upheld.

The ex-PGMOL chief said: “I am simply astounded that Referee Gillett hasn’t awarded a penalty kick after the intervention of VAR. This is an easy decision the goalkeeper has fouled the forward.

“This is Gillett’s fourth match this season involving Arsenal. No matter what capacity, Referee, VAR or 4th official that is too much. I find it difficult to understand how a penalty kick has not been awarded to Arsenal.”

Gillett lucky Arsenal bagged late winner

In the end, the decision didn’t count for much, with Arsenal going on to pick up all three points in dramatic fashion, but the referee is lucky Gabriel bagged a late winner, given that it was a very questionable choice to overturn the penalty.

VAR must take a large portion of the blame, considering it has consistently been made clear that the referee’s call should take priority this season, with technology only to be used in cases where a glaring mistake has been made.

This view is shared by Arteta, who said after the match: “If it is not a clear and obvious error, VAR should not intervene. We have been told this for a few years and at the start of this season again.”

VAR got away with one this time around, with Arteta’s side showing tremendous heart to turn things around at a ground where they have a poor record, but had Arsenal dropped points on Sunday, it could have had major ramifications on the Premier League title race.

Despite spending more than £400m in the summer transfer window, Liverpool are now reportedly preparing an aggressive approach to sign another impressive player ahead of Barcelona.

Wirtz knows what he's "capable of" after slow start

For all of Liverpool’s spending, it’s been the old guard maintaining their 100% record at times. Whilst Hugo Ekitike has found his feet right away, Florian Wirtz hasn’t registered a goal involvement since the Community Shield, Milos Kerkez has had weaknesses exposed and Alexander Isak is still getting back to full sharpness.

Out of all those players, Wirtz has arguably received the most criticism. The German become the Premier League’s most expensive player for a brief moment before Isak made his move, but has so far failed to match the physicality of English football.

Glimpses of quality began to emerge against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, but it wasn’t enough to keep his place as Arne Slot dropped his new signing for Alexis Mac Allister in the Merseyside derby. Wirtz, however, is far from worried – telling Sky Germany that he knows what he’s “capable of”.

In the meantime, Liverpool sit five points clear at the top of the Premier League with the only 100% record. If there’s any environment that will gift Wirtz the patience that he needs, it is Anfield and Arne Slot’s side who have remained perfect without his heavy influence.

Even after that slow start, Liverpool are not deterred. In fact, reports are now suggesting that they’re ready to spend big once again on a player who could even combine with Wirtz.

Liverpool planning aggressive Alvarez approach

According to reports in Spain, Liverpool are now planning an aggressive approach to sign Julian Alvarez and are the best placed side to lure the Atletico Madrid star back to the Premier League ahead of Barcelona.

If Liverpool’s frontline looks dangerous now, then it will look an even greater threat with a player of Alvarez’s quality added. The Argentina international is already a Premier League winner from during his time at Manchester City and has since become Atletico’s leading star.

Appearances

57

Goals

29

Assists

8

With 37 goal involvements in his debut campaign for Atletico, Alvarez proved to be worth every penny of his £81m transfer fee and could soon find himself on the move once again.

Ballon d'Or 2025: Did Mohamed Salah deserve the award ahead of Ousmane Dembele?

European football awaits…

ByTom Cunningham Sep 23, 2025

Diego Simeone will, of course, be desperate to keep hold of his star man. The iconic manager was full of praise for the Liverpool target last season, telling reporters: “Julián is having a great season, we went looking for that player, we need that player, especially at times during the match against Sevilla and today [when] he took on the offensive role. We need those characteristics.”

Manchester United captain Maya Le Tissier was included in Sarina Wiegman's latest England squad on Tuesday. But while there is a gaping long-term hole in the centre of the Lionesses' defence after Millie Bright's international retirement, Wiegman is still insistent on using Le Tissier in a different position, much to the annoyance of her club's social media team.

Wiegman: Le Tissier's first position is right-back

Bright's decision to end her international career, combined with Leah Williamson's current injury absence, means there is a void that need filling in England's defensive ranks. Left-sided Alex Greenwood is the most senior available centre-back in the squad ahead of upcoming 'homecoming' friendlies against Brazil and Australia, but the right-sided position is up for grabs. Yet, despite Le Tissier's outstanding club form for Manchester United, Wiegman is still reluctant to consider her, primarily viewing the Guernsey-born star as a right-back instead of a central defender.

The boss reiterated that stance when speaking to the press after the October squad was named.

"She plays centre-back every single game and has good performances, but for us her first position is still as a right full-back. But we also know she can play centre-back," Wiegman reasoned, a response that served to raise more than a few eyebrows.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportWiegman's view on Le Tissier 'baffling'

Last season, the defence that Le Tissier led from the right-sided centre-back role kept 13 clean sheets in 22 WSL goals and conceded just 10 times through the first 20 league fixtures. Her efforts were rewarded with a place in 2024-25 PFA Team of the Year, next to Bright. So far in 2025-26, United have the joint meanest defence in the WSL (three goals conceded in six games) alongside Chelsea. It's also already been seven clean sheets from 11 games across all competitions.

Women's football reporter for Tom Garry expressed confusion on X with regard to Wiegman's comments: "Given that Maya Le Tissier has made 72 consecutive starts at centre-back for Manchester United, this idea that full-back is her 'first position' doesn't really make sense to me."

Kathryn Batte noted a prominent former player's similar struggles to convince Wiegman to use her in her favoured position: "Rachel Daly had a fine England career playing mostly in a position that was not her first choice and I admire Maya Le Tissier for just getting on with it. If she doesn't get a chance at CB in friendlies and when there's injuries I’m not sure if she ever will (under Wiegman)."

Influential fan podcaster Conner Roberts said: "Sarina is clearly an exceptional coach but this reasoning always baffles me…this notion that she's a right-back doesn't [hold] water to me either because Sarina doesn't use Maya as the back up right-back to Lucy Bronze, it's been Niamh Charles who comes on."

Man Utd hit back with tweet

Manchester United's social media team sought to remind everyone the position in which Le Tissier has thrived since joining the club in the summer of 2022. She had primarily played as a right-back for former side Brighton & Hove Albion, but was immediately utilised in the centre of defence by manager Marc Skinner, who has since made her Red Devils captain, upon moving to Manchester.

A pointed X post from the team's official account read: "Maya Le Tissier has started 104 games for United. 103 of them have been at centre-back."

The one outlier was a Women's League Cup group stage clash with Durham in October 2022, when Aissatou Tounkara lined up in the centre of defence next to Millie Turner, leaving Le Tissier to plug a gap caused by usual right-back Ona Batlle suffering a concussion earlier that month.

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

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

Getty Images SportA future England 'stalwart'

Skinner was responsible for permanently repurposing Le Tissier from right-back to centre-back. He was asked about her form after Manchester United won their Women's Champions League opener against Norway's Valerenga recently.

He noted that it wasn't his place to say whether she ought to be a starting centre-back for England, but his enormous admiration for the 23-year-old shone through regardless.

"She is [at the top of her game] and has been for a long time. I know the next question is going to be should she start for England, I'm not here to answer that question, but I start her for a reason – because she’s an incredible footballer and such a driven personality as well," Skinner said.

"When she gets an opportunity, should Sarina see fit for that, she'll be an incredible England stalwart and somebody that will give the country pride."

Left-arm spinner had retired last year citing racial discrimination

ESPNcricinfo staff22-Apr-2025Cricket Scotland says it has reached an “amicable resolution” with its former player Hamza Tahir, who had alleged he was the victim of racial discrimination when announcing his retirement from international cricket last year.Tahir, a left-arm spinner who made a total of 49 appearances across ODIs and T20Is, announced in June 2024 that he would be pursuing an unfair dismissal case after losing his Cricket Scotland contract earlier that year.Speaking at the time at a press conference in Edinburgh, alongside another former Scotland player Majid Haq as well as anti-racism campaigners, Tahir claimed he had to “work twice as hard to be on the same level as others” within the international set-up, adding that “enough was enough”.Tahir’s retirement followed separate complaints by Majid and another former Scotland player Qasim Sheikh, whose allegations in 2022 prompted an independent review, Changing the Boundaries. This listed 448 examples of racism and discrimination within cricket in Scotland, while finding the governance and leadership of cricket in the country to be institutionally racist.The findings of that report, however, have since been queried, with only five incidents detailed within the report progressing to disciplinary measures.In a statement, Cricket Scotland acknowledged Tahir’s claims of unfair treatment, adding: “Both parties are pleased to confirm that a claim of unfair dismissal has now been brought to an amicable resolution.””In a demonstration of positive action, Cricket Scotland and Hamza Tahir have agreed to work together to show their collective commitment to improve player equality and ensure there is no place for discrimination in Scottish cricket.”There will be no further comment made by either party on this matter.”

Referee Jarred Gillett broke PGMOL protocol in the process of denying Arsenal a penalty at Newcastle last weekend. While Arsenal went on to win 2-1 at St. James' Park courtesy of late goals from Mikel Merino and Gabriel Magalhaes, fans were incensed as Gillett overturned his decision to award a penalty in the 14th minute when it looked as though Nick Pope had fouled Viktor Gyokeres.

Getty Images SportGillett overturned penalty call following VAR intervention

Arsenal striker Gyokeres sought to capitalise upon a short Jacob Murphy backpass early on and looked to have been fouled by Newcastle goalkeeper Pope. Gillett initially pointed to the spot but was instructed by the VAR to review replays on the pitchside monitor that suggested the Magpies shotstopper got to the ball first despite subsequently wiping out the Swedish forward.

And after reviewing the footage, Gillett overturned his penalty decision, much to the dismay of Arsenal supporters.

AdvertisementPremier League official broke PGMOL protocol

Gillett then announced his decision at St. James' Park, telling the home crowd: "After review, the Newcastle goalkeeper plays the ball and there is no foul. The final decision is a drop ball."

While Arsenal fans were incensed, Gillett could then be heard telling Gunners star Bukayo Saka about the reasoning to avoid a drop ball rather than a penalty, saying: "Before there is any contact, the goalkeeper gets a toe on the ball, that’s why."

Arteta was fuming, adding: “Well, I watched it back and watched it live as well. And if it’s not a clear and obvious error, VAR should not intervene. We’ve been told this for a few years, this style of decision again, and for me, it’s very clear that it doesn’t have to intervene because it’s a penalty.”

He added: “We fully deserved the win. The way we played, the way we competed. We fully deserved the win.

“The chances we generated. I think we fully deserved to win the game. We did it in a dramatic manner, but so happy and so proud of the team.”

AFP'VAR should not intervene'

Despite coming away with a huge three points, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta wasn't pleased about VAR intervening on the penalty incident, saying after the full time whistle: "If it is not a clear and obvious error, VAR should not intervene. We have been told this for a few years and at the start of this season again."

And Saka, despite being informed of the reasoning, added: "The fact that it took the ref that long to decide shows it is not a clear and obvious error."

On Match of the Day, Joe Hart backed the decision, saying: “Pope, with those size 13 feet of his, gets a toe on it. Not only does he get a toe on it, he manages to divert the ball away from goal. But that’s not the most important point. As Pope plants his foot, he’s deemed not to be using a forward motion towards Gyokeres.

“Therefore, as Gyokeres’ knee clashes into Pope’s knee, it is just seen as a clash of bodies. It’s not Pope taking him out. It’s not a foul. Not a penalty.”

ENJOYED THIS STORY?

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

Arsenal back at home this weekend

Arsenal return to league duties at home on Saturday afternoon as they welcome West Ham to the Emirates. The Gunners, who boast a 100% start to their Champions League campaign with a 2-0 win over Olympiacos on Wednesday night, are unbeaten at home in the league this season having claimed seven points from three matches.

Everton have approached the 2025/26 season with a clear strategy, blending summer acquisitions with tactical continuity.

The Toffees began the campaign with a narrow 1-0 defeat at Elland Road but bounced back strongly with a 2-0 home win against Brighton, followed by a 3-2 victory at Molineux.

This start has provided early optimism for supporters, especially given the major changes in the squad over the summer.

David Moyes oversaw the departure of several key figures, including Ashley Young, Abdoulaye Doucoure, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, which opened opportunities for new arrivals.

The club welcomed a mixture of youth and experience, signing Thierno Barry from Villareal, Jack Grealish from Manchester City, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall from Chelsea, and Tyler Dibling from Southampton.

Grealish, in particular, has made an immediate impact, registering four assists so far, demonstrating that Everton’s summer business could already be paying dividends.

Amid these high-profile arrivals, one player quietly making waves is Senegalese winger Iliman Ndiaye, whose early-season form has been vital for the Toffees’ attacking strategy.

Ndiaye’s start to the season

Ndiaye, 25, joined Everton in 2024 from Marseille and has quickly emerged as a versatile attacking threat.

Primarily deployed as a left-winger, Ndiaye is also capable of playing as a centre-forward or attacking midfielder.

Last season, he contributed nine goals in 33 Premier League appearances, demonstrating an impressive mix of goal-scoring and creative play.

This season, Ndiaye has continued that trend, scoring against Brighton at home and Wolves away.

In the match against Wolves, he recorded 51 touches, completed 22 of 33 passes (70% accuracy), and registered two key passes, as per Sofascore, contributing significantly to Everton’s attacking rhythm.

His 2024/25 metrics underline his all-round impact: nine goal involvements, 3.19 progressive carries per 90, 3.07 progressive passes per 90, and a pass completion rate of 81.8%, as per FBref.

Ndiaye also averaged 0.56 shots on target per 90 with a 42.9% shot-on-target accuracy, generated 2.41 shot-creating actions per 90, and completed 47.6% of take-ons successfully.

These statistics highlight Ndiaye’s dual role as both a goal-scoring outlet and a creative link in the midfield, a player capable of influencing matches in multiple ways.

His versatility is particularly valuable given the club’s summer signings, which have intensified competition for attacking positions.

Ndiaye’s ability to adapt to multiple roles will be critical as Everton seek to maintain consistency and compete effectively in the Premier League.

How Dwight McNeil's value compares to Ndiaye

While Ndiaye has made an encouraging start, the arrivals of Grealish, Dewsbury-Hall, and Dibling inevitably impact other squad members, particularly Dwight McNeil.

McNeil, also 25, joined Everton from Burnley in 2022, while last season, he made 21 league appearances, scoring four goals and registering eight assists, highlighting his ability to contribute both offensively and creatively.

However, McNeil’s game time is likely to be restricted this season due to the new signings.

In the first three league fixtures, he has made only a single appearance, a significant reduction compared to his prior role under Sean Dyche, where he was pivotal in helping Everton maintain their Premier League status.

Despite this, journalist Joe Thomas described him as “magic,” reflecting his vision, creativity, and ability to influence the game in key moments.

Statistically, McNeil’s 2024/25 season showcased his overall contribution.

Matches Played

21

Goals

4

Assists

6

Progressive Carries

38

Progressive Passes

69

Shot-Creating Actions

72

According to FBref, he registered 2.50 progressive carries per 90, 4.53 progressive passes per 90, a 74.5% pass completion rate, 0.66 shots on target per 90, a 40% shot-on-target accuracy, and a 53.3% successful take-on rate.

These figures illustrate his ability to link play, drive forward from wide areas, and create scoring opportunities for teammates.

While his minutes may be limited in the short term, McNeil remains a valuable asset who can impact matches off the bench or step into the starting lineup when rotation is required. That said, he is no longer a guaranteed starter.

Ndiaye’s early-season form, meanwhile, demonstrates his growing importance to the team, contributing goals, assists, and creative influence. Interestingly, however, it is actually McNeil who is deemed to be the more valuable asset (£22m vs £19m), as per Transfermarkt.

With Moyes’ new-look side taking shape though, it may well be McNeil who falls victim of this wave of exciting incomings.

Everton sold "world-class" talent who's now playing like Grealish & Gordon

Everton could have used a player of Grealish and Gordon quality in their new-look team…

ByJoe Nuttall Sep 4, 2025

Chelsea have been in constant contact to discuss the signing of an “unbelievable” Barcelona player who they absolutely love, according to a report.

Blues' summer transfer plans taking shape

The Blues’ form in the second half of the Premier League season has been patchy to say the least, but they have returned to form in recent weeks, securing two wins on the spin to ensure they are firmly in contention for the Champions League places.

As such, Enzo Maresca should be well-positioned to attract some top players this summer, and the manager appears to be especially keen on signing a new striker, with Borussia Dortmund’s Serhou Guirassy and Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap among the targets.

Maresca is also eager to bolster his options at the opposite end of the pitch, with a new centre-back of interest, and the west Londoners are now believed to be the favourites to sign AFC Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen, having proposed a seven-year contract.

Chelsea now have "strong" chance of signing £206k-per-week Barcelona star

Enzo Maresca’s side have thrown their hat in the ring.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Apr 26, 2025

Huijsen is attracting widespread interest, however, which means Maresca may have to move on to alternative targets, and a report from The Boot Room has revealed Chelsea absolutely love Barcelona defender Jules Kounde.

The Blues have been in constant contact with Kounde’s agents, such is their level of interest, with the Frenchman’s future now up in the air, given that he is yet to commit to a new contract to extend his stay at the Camp Nou beyond 2027.

Barca want to keep hold of the defender, and talks have been held over a new deal, but a move could be possible if the two parties are unable to make any progress, with Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool also in the picture for his signature.

"Unbelievable" Kounde could upgrade Maresca's backline

It is little wonder the Blues are so keen on signing the France international, given that he has been a vital player for a Barca side on course to win a treble this season, after defeating Real Madrid 3-2 in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday.

Kounde scored the winning goal with just minutes left to play in extra time, finding the back of the net for the fourth time this season, while he has also showcased his attacking threat by picking up eight assists.

The 26-year-old has predominantly featured at right-back, but he is also very much capable of playing in the centre of defence, and he has impressed manager Hansi Flick with his fitness levels, which were lauded as “unbelievable” earlier this season.

The £223k-a-week defender could be a fantastic signing for Chelsea this summer, but it looks like it could be difficult to pull off, given that he has been one of Barcelona’s most important players this season, and his recent performance against Real Madrid may make them even more hesitant to sanction a departure.