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      Bukayo Saka cheekily hits out at Havertz for stealing hat-trick goal but tells Arsenal fans ‘don’t worry it’s coming’

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      BUKAYO SAKA aimed a cheeky dig towards Kai Havertz after his Arsenal team-mate “got in the way” of his first hat-trick.Saka, 23, was a top performer for the Gunners as they beat Monaco 3-0 at the Emirates in the Champions League.Buakyo Saka scored twice for Arsenal against MonacoCredit: GettyAnd he joked team-mate Kai Havertz ‘got in the way’ of him scoring a hat-trickCredit: GettyThe winger netted twice before assisting the third scored by Havertz, 25.Arsenal’s opener came as Saka got in at the far post for a tap-in after Gabriel Jesus fired the ball across the face of goal in the 34th minute.In the 78th minute pressure on the goalkeeper and defender playing out from Havertz allowed Saka to nick the ball back before doubling his side’s lead and his tally for the night.The third and final goal came as Saka shot a deflected strike on target from close range.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSaka had directed the ball towards the far corner before Havertz was quickest to react at the near post and guide the ball into the net in the 88th minute.The Havertz touch potentially denied Saka his first Arsenal hat-trick.And speaking to TNT Sports after the game, he joked: “Yeah, he got in the way of it.”But Saka declared the elusive feat would arrive soon, adding: “But don’t worry it’s coming, it’s coming.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe win saw Arsenal take a major step towards automatic qualification in the Champions League, placing them on 13 points.Their next match in the tournament now won’t arrive until January 22 when they host Dinamo Zagreb, before they head to Girona the following week for the final game in the revamped league phase.Arsenal’s SET-PIECE COACH gets very own mural outside Emirates Stadium as fans say ‘this is just tragic… game’s gone’Saka’s brace also took his tally for the season up to nine goals and 12 assists, with his European goal tally being doubled thanks to his Emirates exploits.Post-match he was also full of praise for teen star Myles Lewis-Skelly, who had an outstanding game out of position at left-back.Saka said of the teen: “I said to him before the game that this is his level and he needs to have no doubts and do what we see him do in training. Amazed with him and he played a big part in the first goal.Arsenal play host to Everton on Saturday for their next game. More

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      Arsenal find answer to left-back conundrum in brilliant Lewis-Skelly as Saka reveals four-word pep talk before Monaco

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      MIKEL ARTETA did not hold back in his praise for Myles Lewis-Skelly after his first Champions League start as Arsenal’s latest graduate more than repaid the faith.Lewis-Skelly showed the confidence and understanding of a player with more than 100 appearances under his belt as the Gunners saw off Monaco 3-0.Myles Lewis-Skelly stole the show on his Champions League debutCredit: GettyBrave on the ball and playing a key role in Arsenal’s first goal – this was a night he can remember fondly.While Arteta continues to worry about just how many injuries are piling up in North London – at least he now has someone he can trust at left-back.With Oleksandr Zinchenko and Riccardo Calafiori sidelined and Jurrien Timber not ready to start, the 18-year-old was given the nod ahead of Kieran Tierney.Arteta hailed the youngster after his Champions League debut versus Monaco, saying: “A really proud moment. He’s one of our own. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”It’s just a joy to watch it him, a privilege to be able to give the chance to somebody. He took the chance.”Gunners fans have had glimpses in the past, especially when he was involved in a spat with Manchester City superstar Erling Haaland before he had even turned 18.But with his progress this season having been hindered by an infected toe, supporters have had to wait a while longer for a proper display.There was plenty to be excited about here, with even Bukayo Saka raving about his display, saying: “His future is very bright.Most read in Champions LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”He just needs to keep the same head that he has got, his mentality is top and he is always asking questions, looking to learn. I’m so proud of him.”I just said to him, like I said to him before the game – this is his level.Arsenal’s SET-PIECE COACH gets very own mural outside Emirates Stadium as fans say ‘this is just tragic… game’s gone'”He needs to have no doubts and play with confidence.“What he’s doing, we see it in training. I was pleased with him, he was a big part of the first goal.”Despite being the youngest player to start in the Champions League for Arsenal since Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in 2011, Lewis-Skelly was not lacking in confidence.Whether that was on the ball, taking possession in tight spaces and always looking to play forwards, or telling other far more senior team-mates where they should be.Lewis-Skelly completed a very impressive 45 of 47 attempted passes, always looking to keep the tempo up and with team-mates not afraid to hand him the ball.Arteta asks his full-backs to move inside when the Gunners are in possession and, having come through the ranks as a midfielder, the teen looks more than comfortable doing so.He just needs to keep the same head that he has got, his mentality is top and he is always asking questions, looking to learn. I’m so proud of him.Bukayo SakaIt was from this position he helped craft the opener.Having shifted inside alongside Declan Rice, Lewis-Skelly collected a pass from skipper Martin Odegaard.Under pressure from Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche, the No49 took a touch backwards to draw the Frenchman in before darting forwards, leaving him stranded.The England Under-19 settled himself and quickly set Gabriel Jesus in behind with a fine pass, from where the Brazilian squared to setup Saka.READ MORE SUN STORIESAs the Gunners had to dig in after the break, Arteta sent on the more experienced Timber to shore things up.But Lewis-Skelly still departed to a standing ovation – surely not the last he will receive from Arsenal supporters.Arsenal ratings vs Monaco as Lewis-Skelly gets standing ovation but Merino is heavy and slowBUKAYO SAKA scored twice as Arsenal saw off Monaco 3-0 in the Champions League.Here is how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the players’ performances.DAVID RAYA – 7/10Rarely troubled throughout the game, but did what he had to do.Commanding in the box, and pretty good distribution-wise, with only a few mistakes on that front.THOMAS PARTEY – 6A mixed bag from Partey tonight, with a few nice passes creating dangerous attacks, and a few going wildly astray.Wasn’t caused an awful lot of trouble by Monaco’s left side.WILLIAM SALIBA – 7Solid at the back as per usual. Always gives you a seven out of ten.JAKUB KIWIOR – 7A capable deputy in Gabriel’s absence, sharp on the ball and dependable off of it. Equally as good as Saliba next to him.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – 9Playing as a left-back, Lewis-Skelly became the latest Hale End academy graduate to make his full Champions League debut vs Monaco.A sensational bit of play to beat Monaco’s press allowed him to slot an inch-perfect ball into Jesus who set up Saka for Arsenal’s opener.Given a standing ovation by the home support when he left the pitch after 64 minutes.DECLAN RICE – 7Broke up play nicely as he always does, often sliding in to shut down Monaco attacks.Not as threatening as we have seen him be previously going forward, but that wasn’t his job this evening with Merino alongside him.MIKEL MERINO – 4I wasn’t moved.Arsenal fans might be left slightly disappointed by the Odegaard – Merino – Rice midfield they were excited about. Looked heavy and slow, and got booked.MARTIN ODEGAARD – 5Not his usual elegant self in midfield for Arsenal.Unfortunately let down by his end product tonight, as he missed two huge chances to double their lead either side of half-time.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 4A threat down the left side in the first half, he should’ve had an assist were it not for Arsenal’s number nine.While he showed some bright sparks, his end product in general was not good enough.BUKAYO SAKA – 8In the right place at the right time as he so often is to open the scoring after a great ball across the box by Jesus.Reacted quickly to a goalkeeper mistake and finished into the far corner for what was his seventh home Champions League goal in seven home Champions League games – clinical.GABRIEL JESUS – 5Could’ve had a first-half brace, but for his lack of composure, as he missed TWO huge 1v1 chances early on in the tie.What he lacked in finishing however, he made up for with a quality assist to set up Saka for the opening goal.SUBS:LEANDRO TROSSARD (GABRIEL MARTINELLI, 64) – 5Much the same story as the man whom he replaced.JORGINHO (DECLAN RICE, 64) – 6A calming presence in the Arsenal midfield, helped to settle the ball when he got on it.JURRIEN TIMBER (MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY, 64) – 6Replaced the best player on the pitch and Arsenal’s level didn’t drop much.KAI HAVERTZ (GABRIEL JESUS, 73) – 8Put the goalkeeper under plenty of pressure to force the mistake for Saka’s second.Got the faintest of nicks for the Gunners’ third.ETHAN NWANERI (MARTIN ODEGAARD, 79) – 5Another good few minutes in the tank for the Arsenal starlet with a very bright future.Some good touches to get the home fans excited. 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      Arsenal 3-0 Monaco LIVE RESULT: Bukayo Saka on the double as Gunners sail into third in Champions League table

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      ARSENAL defeated Monaco 3-0 in a one-sided clash as the Gunners leapt up to third in the Champions League table.Bukayo Saka fired the Gunners ahead after a stunning move which was kicked off by 18-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly, who started at left-back.Saka then doubled Arsenal’s lead with 15 minutes to play, capitalising on a horror Monaco defensive error in their own box.Kai Havertz appeared to knock home the Gunners’ third after connecting with Saka’s shot to put the game out of the French side’s reach – but it was later ruled as a Thilo Kehrer own goal with the defender having the final touch.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the reaction from the Emirates with our live blog below…That’s all from the EmiratesThe frustrations of Fulham have been forgotten.After Premier League disappointment at the weekend, Arsenal roared back with a comprehensive home victory in the Champions League that has them flying high in Europe.Bukayo Saka was once against the Gunners’ star boy with his double added to by an own goal from former West Ham man Thilo Kehrer.The result has Mikel Arteta’s men back in the winning mood, and that could prove crucial when they return to Emirates entertainment against Everton on Saturday.We’ll be in place to bring you all the action on the afternoon – you won’t miss a kick!Until then, thank you for joining us and goodnight.Copy linkCopiedLift off for Lewis-SkellyAt 18 years and 76 days, Myles Lewis-Skelly became the youngest player to start a Champions League match for Arsenal since Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain back in September 2011.And now the teenager has his sights on a similar career at the top level of the game – albeit without the injuries endured by his predecessor.Lewis-Skelly completed 45 of 47 passes evening (96%), the best passing accuracy by an Arsenal teenager in Europe’s top competition since Johan Djourou (97%) against Hamburg in September 2006, the same month Lewis-Skelly was born.After the game, the 18-year-old revealed that he hoped this was the basis for many more European appearances at the Emirates. I’m proud of myself, and I believe in myself. I’ve come a long way and I just want to thank everyone for giving me the opportunity; hopefully, it’s the first of many. I’ll push on from here.”Myles Lewis-SkellyTNT SportsCopy linkCopiedArteta delighted with fast startMikel Arteta revealed himself to be a very happy Arsenal manager after this evening’s three-goal win over Monaco. But the Gunners boss admitted his team had to worked hard in the second period to keep their noses in front before a late second from Bukao Saka and an own goal from Thilo Kehrer sealed matters.However, Arteta believed that the result was just rewards for his team’s performance in the opening 45 minutes, a half in which they could have killed the contest off.I’m very happy tonight. I’m happy with scoring three goals, keeping a clean sheet and winning the game. We started the game so very well, and in the first-half we should have been at least three or four up at least. We could have put the game to bed, but we didn’t.Mikel ArtetaTNT SportsCopy linkCopiedBukayo the star of the showSensational Bukayo Saka was the standout star for Arsenal once again as he hit a double at the Emirates to down Monaco.The 23-year-old has now scored in six of his seven Champions League home appearances for the Gunners, while he has been involved in 14 goals in 14 games overall for the Londoners in the competition (eight goals and six assists).In all competitions this season, only Mohamed Salah (16 goals and 12 assists) has been involved in more goals among Premier League players this season than Saka (nine goals and 12 assists).Copy linkCopiedSaka: Myles can go forBukayo Saka scored two goals to fire Arsenal into the top eight of the Champions League table, and then paid tribute to his teenage teammate Myles Lewis-Skelly.Lewis-Skelly was making his first Champions League start at left-back for the Gunners and performed admirably, playing his part in the opening goal.[Myles’ future] is very bright! He just needs to keep the same head that he’s had so far. His mentality is top, and he’s always asking questions and looking to learn. I’m so proud of him.Bukayo SakaTNT SportsCopy linkCopiedKai suffers goal blowOh no for Kai Havertz!OG yes for Thilo Kehrer!UEFA have confirmed in the last few minutes that Arsenal’s third this evening has officially gone down in the record books as an own-goal by Monaco captain Kehrer.The former West Ham man is adjudged to have got the telling final touch despite the slightest deflection from Havertz on Bukayo Saka’s initial shot.Copy linkCopiedChampions League matchday six resultsThe new-look League Phase in the Champions League is now three-quarters of the way through its inaugural campaign, and European life is looking good for Arsenal and their Premier League rivals.The Gunners joined Aston Villa and Liverpool in registering wins on matchday six, and the three clubs now occupy the top five places in the 32-team table.However, it’s a different story for the 2022 champions Manchester City, who fell to another defeat and are now in real danger of not even making the play-off stage of the competition.AC Milan 2-1 Red Star BelgradeArsenal 3-0 MonacoAtletico Madrid 3-1 Slovan BratislavaBenfica 0-0 BolognaDortmund 2-3 BarcelonaFeyenoord 4-2 Sparta PragueJuventus 2-0 Man CityLille 3-2 Sturm GrazStuttgart 5-1 Young BoysCopy linkCopiedMatch stats from the EmiratesSince the start of last season, Arsenal have won seven of their eight Champions League home games (D1), keeping a clean sheet in every single one of those victories.The Gunners’ seven clean sheets are the most by a side on home soil in the competition over the last two campaigns.Copy linkCopiedFrom Martin Blackburn in TurinA good night for Arsenal, but another troubling one for Manchester City. Martin Blackburn has the latest from Turin after the Premier League champions fall to a 2-0 defeat at Juventus…One win in 10 matches now as Manchester City’s season continues to unravel.Seven of those have been defeats and with games against United and Aston Villa to come it could yet get worse before it gets better. City are shipping goals at an alarming rate – while struggling to take their chances when they are on top.In the shadow of the Alps, this defeat shows Pep has a mountain to climb to restore his team to what they were.Copy linkCopiedFull time – Arsenal 3-0 MonacoLife is three and easy for Arsenal this evening.Three goals, three points, and third in the Champions League table to match their third spot in the Premier League.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 3-0 Monaco90. Three minutes of stoppage time has been signalled by the fourth official, which is just enough time for everyone inside the Emirates Stadium to point out that all the goals this evening were scored from open play.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 3-0 Monaco88. The ball is turned in, and Arsenal have three goals to match their three points.Kai Havertz is the one claiming the third, but it’s going to take some further inspection to work out what happened.Replays show an angled shot from Bukayo Saka shot on the right deflects up into the net at the near post after a touch off the shin of Havertz, and then a more telling one from Monaco defender Thilo Kehrer.And while the visiting captain doesn’t want any part in the celebrations, the Arsenal substitute is more than happy to have his name back on the scoresheet.Copy linkCopiedIcing on the cake!Copy linkCopiedArsenal 2-0 Monaco85. There are five minutes left on the clock, and with Arsenal having made all of their substitutions, it means Bukayo Saka will be playing the full 90.The forward has never scored a hat-trick for the Gunners, although he has netted one for England. Is this the night?Copy linkCopiedArsenal 2-0 Monaco82. With another three Champions League points in the bag, Mikel Arteta feels its time for another impressive cameo from Ethan Nwaneri.The Hale End wonderkid replaces club captain Martin Odegaard.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 2-0 Monaco80. Monaco boss Adi Hutter responds with a triple change.Jordan Teze, Eliot Matazo and George Ilenikhena are on for the visitors, replacing Vanderson, the excellent Lamine Camara and Breel Embolo.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 2-0 Monaco 78. A goal scored by Bukayo Saka in North London – but made at the Southampton defensive circus by Mohammed Salisu.The centre-back may not ply his trade at St Mary’s anymore, but is just as adept at making a mess of playing out from the back as anyone in red and white stripes this season.Salisu’s short pass to goalkeeper Radoslaw Majecki is charged down by Kai Havertz, and when the ball pops back up in his direction, he is too slow to react.One player who is never slow is Saka, who nips in to control, and cooly knock home from close range.Game over.Copy linkCopiedSealed by Saka!Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Monaco74. Well, it really should have been sealed by the home side on the break!Arsenal turn over play quickly and counter with Leandro Trossard leading the charge.The Belgian has the simple task of playing in the unmarked Martin Odegaard on his right, but fluffs the pass by hitting the only defender in his way.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Monaco 72. You do get the sense that there is a second goal in this, but whether it comes from Monaco finally breaking through or Arsenal capitalising on the counter, I don’t know.Eighteen minutes plus stoppage time remain in North London, and a place in the top eight of the League Phase is up for grabs.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Monaco70. Monaco are pinning Arsenal back with a spell of relentless running, if somewhat lacking in penetration.In particular, 20-year-old Lamine Camara has looked very good in midfield for the visitors.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Monaco68. With a quarter of the contest remaining, Arsenal’s lead remains a narrow one – and they have just not got going in the second period.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Monaco66. Embolo! It should be 1-1!The Swiss striker finds room to turn in the box, and from 10 yards out thumps his shot narrowly wide of the post.It might even have rippled the side-netting on the way through.It’s the closest Monaco have come to scoring this evening.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Monaco65. A trio of changes from Mikel Arteta.The Arsenal coach introduces Jurrien Timber, Jorginho and Leandro Trossard for Myles Lewis-Skelly, Declan Rice and Gabriel Martinelli.Lewis-Skelly, in particular, can be pleased with his work on his first ever Champions League start.Copy linkCopiedArsenal 1-0 Monaco63. The third yellow card of the encounter is shown to Monaco’s right-back Vanderson.The Brazilian is cautioned for pulling the shirt of Gabriel Martinelli.He joins his compatriot in the book along with Mikel Marino, who was yellow carded a few minutes ago. Copy linkCopied More

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      Arsenal ratings: Lewis-Skelly gets standing ovation after Champions League debut but Merino looks heavy and slow

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      BUKAYO SAKA scored twice as Arsenal saw off Monaco 3-0 in the Champions League.The Gunners missed several huge chances to wrap the game up in the first-half, with Gabriel Jesus leaving his shooting boots at home.Bukayo Saka scored for the goals for ArsenalCredit: ReutersWonderkid Myles Lewis-Skelly impressedCredit: GettySaka almost got his hat-trick, but a nick from Kai Havertz saw the German credited with the Gunners’ third, to wrap up a vital three points to strengthen Arsenal’s grip on a top eight finish.Here is how SunSport rated the players’ performances.DAVID RAYA – 7/10Rarely troubled throughout the game, but did what he had to do.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCommanding in the box, and pretty good distribution-wise, with only a few mistakes on that front.THOMAS PARTEY – 6A mixed bag from Partey tonight, with a few nice passes creating dangerous attacks, and a few going wildly astray.Wasn’t caused an awful lot of trouble by Monaco’s left side.Most read in Champions LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWILLIAM SALIBA – 7Solid at the back as per usual. Always gives you a seven out of ten.Arsenal’s SET-PIECE COACH gets very own mural outside Emirates Stadium as fans say ‘this is just tragic… game’s gone’JAKUB KIWIOR – 7A capable deputy in Gabriel’s absence, sharp on the ball and dependable off of it. Equally as good as Saliba next to him.MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY – 9Playing as a left-back, Lewis-Skelly became the latest Hale End academy graduate to make his full Champions League debut vs Monaco.And what a debut it was! A sensational bit of play to beat Monaco’s press allowed him to slot an inch-perfect ball into Jesus who set up Saka for Arsenal’s opener.Given a standing ovation by the home support when he left the pitch after 64 minutes.DECLAN RICE – 7Broke up play nicely as he always does, often sliding in to shut down Monaco attacks.Not as threatening as we have seen him be previously going forward, but that wasn’t his job this evening with Merino alongside him.A very, very good Premier League or Champions League number six.MIKEL MERINO – 4I wasn’t moved.Arsenal fans might be left slightly disappointed by the Odegaard – Merino – Rice midfield they were giggling and kicking their feet about, with the Spaniard not offering much in midfield.Looked heavy and slow, and got booked.MARTIN ODEGAARD – 5Not his usual elegant self in midfield for Arsenal.Unfortunately let down by his end product tonight, as he missed two huge chances to double their lead either side of half-time.GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 4A threat down the left side in the first half, he should’ve had an assist were it not for Arsenal’s number nine.While he showed some bright sparks, his end product in general was not good enough.BUKAYO SAKA – 8In the right place at the right time as he so often is to open the scoring after a great ball across the box by Jesus.Reacted quickly to a goalkeeper mistake and finished into the far corner for what was his seventh home Champions League goal in seven home Champions League games – clinical.Added an assist to his tally too, as his shot was turned in by Kai Havertz at the death.GABRIEL JESUS – 5Could’ve had a first-half brace, but for his lack of composure, as he missed TWO huge 1v1 chances early on in the tie.What he lacked in finishing however, he made up for with a quality assist to set up Saka for the opening goal.SUBS:LEANDRO TROSSARD (GABRIEL MARTINELLI, 64) – 5Much the same story as the man whom he replaced.Plenty of the ball in dangerous areas, but didn’t manage to do anything with it.JORGINHO (DECLAN RICE, 64) – 6A calming presence in the Arsenal midfield, helped to settle the ball when he got on it.Almost got an assist for Nwaneri in added time.JURRIEN TIMBER (MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY, 64) – 6Replaced the best player on the pitch and Arsenal’s level didn’t drop much.Not quite as good at progressing the ball as the Hale End graduate tonight.KAI HAVERTZ (GABRIEL JESUS, 73) – 8Put the goalkeeper under plenty of pressure to force the mistake for Saka’s second.Got the faintest of nicks for the Gunners’ third.ETHAN NWANERI (MARTIN ODEGAARD, 79) – 5READ MORE SUN STORIESAnother good few minutes in the tank for the Arsenal starlet with a very bright future.Some good touches to get the home fans excited. More

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      Juventus 2 Man City 0: Premier League flop scores stunner to leave Pep Guardiola’s side facing elimination in 22nd

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      MANCHESTER CITY really do have a mountain to climb to get back to where they once were.This game – played in the shadow of the Alps – showed just how far they have fallen since the end of October.Juventus added to Manchester City’s misery in the Champions LeagueCredit: ReutersJuventus star Dusan Vahovic scored the winner in the second halfCredit: RexWeston McKennie sealed the win for Juventus against Man CityCredit: ReutersMan City’s woes continued in the Champions LeagueCredit: AFPDusan Vlahovic’s header – which somehow squeezed past Ederson – and Weston McKennie’s volley mean it is now one win in 10 for Pep Guardiola’s menSeven of those have been defeats and now the boss has to pick his weary troops up for Sunday’s Manchester derby.In recent years, they have made light work of the Champions League groups – effortlessly gliding through.Yet when the competition returns in a month’s time, a finish in the top 24 is by no means guaranteed.Read More on FootballTheir next game is at old foes Paris Saint-Germain, who also need the points – followed by a home game against Club Brugge.From kings of Europe 18 months ago to scrambling to make the Last 16 play offs is a sobering fall from grace.And right now City look completely devoid of confidence – shipping goals alarmingly at the back while struggling to take their chances at the other end.It has been a nightmare six weeks for Pep – who don’t forget signed a new two-year contract in the middle of all the chaos.Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSA trip to Turin might look daunting but Juve have lost four their last six European games at their Allianz Stadium.Thiago Motta’s men started out a couple of places behind City in the table – clinging on to a place in the play-offs by their fingertips.Beleaguered Man City boss Pep Guardiola involved in bizarre interview when discussing Rico Lewis red cardGuardiola recalled his first-choice keeper Ederson, who had paid the price for his erratic display in the last Champions League game against Feyenoord.That result – when they threw away a three-goal lead in 15 astonishing minutes – had left their place in this tournament beyond January in some doubt.Pep had once again had to patch up his team – playing Rico Lewis as a left back after his eventful day at Selhurst Park on Saturday.City were seeing plenty of the ball which is what Guardiola had asked of them before the game – suggesting they needed to go back to basics.But they were struggling to create much and at the other end they were relieved to see a shot from Kenan Yildiz drift just wide.The Turkish winger also showed City skipper Kyle Walker a clean pair of heels on more than one occasion.First-half strugglesEngland defender Walker can no longer rely on his pace as he used to and this time he had Ruben Dias to thank for making a key block.Meanwhile, City failed to record an effort of note in the opening half hour – the first time that has happened in a European game in four years.Erling Haaland saw an effort blocked by Teun Koopmeiners before it ricocheted into the grateful arms of Michele di Gregorio.The pair were face to face again moments later as the Norwegian ran onto a trademark pass from Kevin De Bruyne.He tried to lift it over the home keeper who got enough on it to keep it out and the best chance of the half was gone.The City boss would have been pleased with the amount of possession his team had – but slightly concerned how little they had created and how pedestrian they looked at times.Juventus get the leadMeanwhile after shipping seven goals in their previous two matches in this competition, at least they had kept the home team at bay.Guardiola knew failure to win here would have put their hopes of finishing in the top eight and qualifying automatically for the Last 16 almost out of the question.A two legged play-off in February is the last thing a squad that has already stretched by injuries needs.Not surprisingly, City’s best moments came from De Bruyne and his low cross soon after the restart found Ilkay Gundogan – but the German’s tame effort was blocked.And the two misses proved costly with Juventus taking the lead as Federico Gatti’s acrobatic effort was pushed away by Ederson.Josko Gvardiol made a hash of clearing his lines and Yildiz swung the ball back over.Another Gvardiol errorVlahovic got up highest and while Ederson scooped it around the post, goaline technology said it had already crossed the line.It was a matter of millimetres but it was a poor goal to concede and another error by Gvardiol, who is having a miserable time right now.City knew they had to snap into action and they did – but Juventus were throwing everything in the way to protect their lead.Bernardo Silva saw a good chance blocked while De Bruyne’s long-range effort fizzed just past the post.Di Gregorio dived full stretch to push Gundgan’s effort from the edge of the box around the post.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut as they pushed for an equaliser they were caught on the break as sub Timothy Weah – son of former City player George – broke down the right.His cross made its way to US international team-mate McKennie whose volley had too much on it for Ederson. 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      Former England boss accuses Pep Guardiola of losing trophies by dropping key players to make sure he got the spotlight

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      EX-ENGLAND manager Fabio Capello and former Premier League star Paolo Di Canio have made outrageous remarks on Pep Guardiola and Ederson.The pair were working as pundits on Sky Sport Italia for Manchester City’s trip to Juventus.Pep Guardiola with Ederson have been labelled as ‘arrogant’Credit: PAFabio Capello hit out at the Man City bossCredit: EPAPaolo Di Canio strongly criticised EdersonCredit: SplashCapello and Di Canio both tore into the struggling Cityzens boss before kick-off.Capello said: “Guardiola is a great coach, but he is far too arrogant and presumptuous.“At times, he has even lost trophies because he wanted to prove that he was the one winning and not the players, so he dropped key figures from the side in the big games.“That was, in my view, an attempt to take the spotlight and the credit away from his squad.”READ MORE IN FOOTBALLPerhaps the 78-year-old was referencing the 2021 Champions League final they lost to Chelsea 1-0.Guardiola surprisingly benched both Rodri and Fernandinho for the game and was accused of “overthinking” by fans for choosing Ilkay Gundogan as a lone holding midfielder.City goalie Ederson, whose blunders helped Feyenoord come back to earn a 3-3 draw at the Etihad a fortnight ago, then came under fire from fellow pundit Di Canio.The West Ham legend said: “Ederson has talent, but he is so arrogant that he makes these mistakes due to sheer over-confidence and trying to show off, like a back-heel flick when under pressure.”Most read in Champions LeagueFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFamed disciplinarian Capello agreed, stating that the keeper was a “disaster” and that Guardiola should drop him until he learns some humility.Ederson was dropped for Stefan Ortega in City’s last three games, but he was back between the sticks versus Juve tonight.Five Man City disasters that led to Pep Guardiola scratching his OWN face before ‘self-harm’ apologyOnly for the Brazilian to make a howler, pushing the ball into his own net from a Dusan Vlahovic header.Juventus went on to win the game 2-0 as City’s crisis continued. More

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      Arsenal’s SET-PIECE COACH gets very own mural outside Emirates Stadium as fans say ‘this is just tragic… game’s gone’

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      ARSENAL’S set-piece coach Nicolas Jover now has his very own MURAL outside the Emirates.But fans have torn it to shreds after an artist painted the black and white canvas ahead of Monaco’s Champions League visit on Wednesday.A new mural has been hand painted outside the Emirates StadiumAnd it honours Arsenal’s SET-PIECE coach Nicolas JoverArsenal’s success from dead ball situations over the last 18 months has been nothing short of remarkableThe Gunners are the new ‘kings’ of set-piecesThe new mural, in the Hornsey Road tunnel, right out the Emirates, has ironically been hand painted on the CORNER of the old brick wall.A smiling Jover, 43, sits next to the quarter-circle of a lined corner marking on a pitch, sporting his Arsenal coaching kit.A video shows a man carefully painting the portrait design today as fans walked past.Arsenal’s prowess from set-pieces is often credited to Javer, with former Manchester United and Spurs star Dimitar Berbatov calling the Gunners the ‘new Stoke City’.READ MORE ON ARSENALAnd Javer has now been celebrated in the same way as the stars on the pitch.He shares the historic tunnel with Mikel Arteta, Declan Rice, David Raya and William Saliba, who also boast their own artwork.And it’s not hard to see why – ever since Jover joined in 2021, Arsenal have scored more goals from corners than any other Premier League club.The Gunners’ corner tactics have become one of the unlikely talking points of the club’s season and Jover is the man responsible.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSArteta’s side netted their Prem-leading eighth dead-ball goal of the season in disappointing 1-1 draw at Fulham on Sunday.Their total of 48 means they are averaging one goal from every 16.4 corners (six per cent).Exposing the secrets of Arsenal’s CHAOTIC corner routines that can win them the Premier League titleArsenal have now scored 23 GOALS from either corner post since the start of last season – eight more than any another side.German-born French coach Javer is never far from the celebrations whenever the North Londoners convert another set-piece.Old Trafford legend Gary Neville personally branded Jover “the most annoying bloke in football”.Fans, including some Gooners, have wasted no time in mocking the gesture.One wrote: “Utter woke nonsense games gone what happened to the Arsenal I love?”Utter woke nonsense, games gone, what happened to the Arsenal I love?Arsenal fanWhile another said: “Probably one of the most embarrassing things I’ve seen in football, so it checks out that it’s Arsenal that have done it.” Another added: “That is the most arsenal thing I’ve ever seen. This is just tragic 😂😂.A fourth replied: “This is why everyone laughs at Arsenal fans.” A fifth said: “Small club mentality.”One more wrote: “Arsenal fans have the most tin pot fans in England, they’ll never learn!”Club legend David Seaman also revealed that a banner has been holstered at Arsenal’s London Colney training base.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe said on the Seaman Says podcast, brought to you by Betway: “There’s a massive slogan on the wall – ‘set pieces win games’.“And they’re showing you that, the amount of prep that goes into that.”How to stop Arsenal at cornersArsenal have turned into a prolific team when it comes to scoring from corners.The Gunners have now scored 22 goals from them since the start of last season – seven more than their nearest rival Manchester City and eight more than Premier League leaders Liverpool.Two of them came against Manchester United – Jurrien Timber and William Saliba netting in the second half to earn Mikel Arteta’s men a vital win as they chase down Arne Slot’s Reds.Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka were the architects with their deliveries, and each now have seven set-piece assists since the start of the 2023/24 campaign – more than any other player.United legend Dimitar Berbatov joked Arsenal are the new Stoke City of the top flight – a side under Tony Pulis who terrorised the so-called “bigger clubs” with set-piece mastery.Here are four ways to stop Arteta’s side at corners More

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      A strike sensation and Serie A ace who struggled in Prem.. who Arsenal could turn to as Arteta hints at January spree

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      MIKEL ARTETA has revealed Arsenal are “on it” when it comes to January recruits.And the Gunners boss has hinted that Kieran Tierney could be sold to raise funds after admitting the Scottish full-back still cannot play in the system that he prefers.Mikel Arteta has hinted Arsenal could dip into the transfer market this summerCredit: AlamyThe Gunners are in the midst of a defensive injury crisis, with the likes of Jurrien Timber and Gabriel Magalhaes among those unavailableCredit: GettyThe North Londoners have been hampered by injuries in the opening months of the season and currently have another defensive crisis to muddle through ahead of a busy festive period.Ahead of tonight’s Champions League clash with Monaco the likes of Gabriel, Jurrien Timber, Riccardo Calafiori, Oleksandr Zinchenko and Thomas Partey were missing from training.Add to that the long-term absences of Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu and Arteta could be without a recognised first-choice full-back with an upcoming Prem clash against Everton.Arsenal have already put out NINE different Prem combos at the back this term, with midfielder Partey often used as a makeshift right-back.READ MORE ON ARSENALAsked about January business, the Spanish boss said: “The window that gives us an opportunity to strengthen the team if we feel that is needed and we feel that we have the capacity to do that.“We are on it and just have to assess the situation because it is changing every week. At the moment not for the better but I’m positive that in a few weeks we’re going to be in a better place.”Because of their dire situation, Arteta could be forced to start Tierney in an Arsenal shirt for the first time since May 2023 – who has not featured in Europe for the club since November 2022.Tierney, 27, was signed in the summer 2019 from Celtic for around £25m by former manager Unai Emery but has swamped with injuries – spending last season on loan at Real Sociedad.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSArteta may feel the need to show potential buyers that the Scotland international is fit and ready to be sold – although it is unlikely they will be able to recoup the fee they paid for him five years ago.More worryingly, despite playing under Arteta for nearly half a decade, Tierney appears unable to play as an inverted full-back to the level of full-back rivals Timber and Zinchenko.Mikel Arteta ‘gutted’ with Arsenal draw against Fulham Arteta explained: “It is about the player having certain qualities. First is he willing to do it? Does he want to do it, yes or no? The other one: is he capable of doing it and does he understand it?“When a player has those three ingredients anything can happen. We see that with many other players.“But if a player doesn’t really fill it, it is more of a problem and we as coaches we have to find solutions. I would play [Tierney] in situations that he is more comfortable with.”So, who could Arsenal bring in to bolster their title charge? They currently are six points off leaders Liverpool who have a game in hand, and perhaps require a spark to go on a consistent run.Left wing is an area they need to strengthen, even with Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard to choose from, especially given Arsenal’s over-reliance on Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka down the right.Former target Ademola Lookman, 27, is ripping it up for Atalanta, netting 17 goals last term – including a Europa League final hat-trick – and already has 10 in 17 games this campaign after scoring in their 3-2 Champions League defeat to Real Madrid.He joined the Italians in August 2022 for an initial fee of around £12.5m on a four-year deal, but looks unlikely to leave next month even if the Gunners offer double what Atalanta paid for him.Kai Havertz has just one goal in his last seven Prem outings with calls for striker reinforcements growing.Arsenal have kept tabs on Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko but would likely need to offload before bringing anyone in.Gabriel Jesus has just one goal this term in all competitions, but Arteta has revealed the club are currently NOT looking to sell the Brazilian they bought for £45m from Manchester City in the summer of 2022.Should defensive issues persist then Arteta may be forced to add to his numbers. Versatile Ajax starlet Jorrel Hato, 18, has been a long-term target but could cost between £25m and £30m.READ MORE SUN STORIESHowever, Arteta is also wary of overcrowding. With everyone fit, he has EIGHT defenders including Gabriel, White, Zinchenko, Timber, Calafiori, Tomiyasu, Jakub Kiwior and William Saliba.Academy graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly is also an option, currently sidelined with a foot infection. The 18-year-old inverted full-back has appeared six times in all competitions this season already.The Gunners could attempt to sign Ademola Lookman, who has impressed for AtalantaViktor Gyokeres is another targetCredit: GettySesko has also been looked at More