Premier League

Subterms

    More stories

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea boss Maresca leaps to defend under-fire new captain Fernandez but these stats show he MUST do better

      by

      ENZO MARESCA defended naming Enzo Fernandez as Chelsea captain – but might struggle to explain the midfielder’s troubling match stats.Fernandez made little attacking impact as the Blues opened their Premier League season with a 2-0 home loss to champs Manchester City.Enzo Fernandez and Co were floored by champs Man CityCredit: GettyFew of Fernandez’s passes were clearly forwardNew Stamford Bridge chief Enzo Maresca might point to disappointing statsCredit: AlamyFernandez wasn’t the only one failing to get to grips with Erling HaalandCredit: RexAnd the Argentinian’s facts and figures did equally little to justify his selection – in many senses of the word.Maresca has backed the World Cup winner after he filmed himself singing a racist chant aimed at French players following Copa America glory.But the £107million buy could need to improve on this day-one performance to even stay in the Chelsea team, let alone continue as stand-in skipper when Reece James is absent.Fernandez’s Stamford Bridge stats on Sunday highlighted his failings.READ MORE TOP STORIESTrue, he did complete 45 passes, with seven others not completed.But our map of every ball he delivered shows the vast majority were pretty much sent sideways rather than forward.Most were knocked out wide from the centre of the pitch.Only one into the box arrived accurately, although a small handful were played just outside.Most read in FootballMaresca and Fernandez showed their frustration at defeatCredit: AlamyFernandez hardly stood out with his figures for dribbles and tacklesFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd the mere two occasions on which Fernandez dispatched passes into the six-yard box, they were both off-target.The duo alongside him in midfield, Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo, are more anchormen than springboards for creating chances.Fans claim Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has ‘had enough’ just one game in after spotting what he did when Man City scoredThat means Maresca must expect more from Fernandez – probably much more.Nicolas Jackson was Chelsea’s only out-and-out frontman against Pep Guardiola’s stylists.Cole Palmer, by far last season’s main man for goals and assists, played just behind.And the finally-fit – but fitful – Christopher Nkunku was quiet out wide, in fact looking more at ease when he featured inside.Fernandez had one of Chelsea’s only three efforts on target as they amassed just 10 goal attempts in all.But he made no dribbles, won just two tackles and only once put in an accurate cross.In contrast, City netted from two of their 11 on-target efforts – from Erling Haaland lethally and Blues’ old boy Mateo Kovacic spectacularly.However, Maresca insisted Fernandez is a positive influence.The new Stamford Bridge boss said: “He’s one of the captains. He’s not the only captain. But he is the captain today.”I can see the team-mates, they like him as a player and as a man.”Cole Palmer, seen fending off Kevin De Bruyne, had few chancesCredit: AlamyChelsea struggled to lay a glove on their opponentsAnd Maresca claims the 23-year-old knows his behaviour was wrong when sparking a racism row just weeks ago.The ex-Leicester chief said: “All of us sometimes do some mistakes. The important thing is to recognise and it’s finished.””I don’t know about you but I made mistakes in the past and I recognised and I think if, as a human being, you make a mistake and recognise you are not going to be punished for life.””‘Enzo did a mistake, he recognised and there is nothing to add.”Chelsea players Wesley Fofana and David Datro-Fofana were among those who spoke out following unacceptable chanting from Argentina stars.Fernandez was at the centre of the outrage as he shared a video of the scenes, with racist and transphobic words belted out.He “apologised sincerely” on Instagram and admitted “the song includes highly offensive language and there is absolutely no excuse”.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe also made a donation to an anti-discrimination charity.That all led to Chelsea considering the matter closed without taking action against him.Chelsea ratings vs Man CityCHELSEA began life under new boss Enzo Maresca with a 2-0 home defeat to champions Manchester City.Here’s how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the Chelsea lot as the season didn’t begin how they wanted.Robert Sanchez – 4/10Distribution-wise, it’s not good enough; that said, he made an absolutely fantastic save to deny a deflected effort from Jeremy Doku in the first half. Similarly in the second half, made a routine save to deny Erling Haaland before getting a hand to Mateo Kovacic’s shot, but failed to stop it rattling the back of the net.Malo Gusto – 5It’s more of the impressive attitude we saw last season from the flying Frenchman, but today, he couldn’t stamp his mark on the game at all going forward. We certainly see more of his best qualities in the game where Chelsea have more of the ball, he should grow into the season nicely over the next few games. Wesley Fofana – 5He didn’t look out of his depth in his first Premier League game for Chelsea for over a year, and despite conceding, it was a decent performance to build on in the coming games. Did well physically against Haaland in fairness, and made it through the 90 minutes unscathed which will please Chelsea fans in some capacity.Levi Colwill – 5Tough day at the office against physicality personified in Erling Haaland.Did play the ball well out from the back for Chelsea with a few good blocks and tackles. But much the same as with Wesley Fofana, there is room for growth into the season with easier fixtures upcoming, particularly where Chelsea will dominate on the ball.  Marc Cucurella  – 6Forced Jeremy Doku into a change of wing in the first half after winning a tough battle against the Belgian winger, and stepped into challenges well for the most part.Was solid again in the second half before going off with an injury. Romeo Lavia – 6He looked like a calming presence in the Chelsea midfield when he did get the ball and he broke up play pretty well for a player who has been out through injury for so long. Continued his good pre-season form and is deserving of a run  in the side. Moises Caicedo – 5A similar performance really to the aforementioned Lavia, but was one of Chelsea’s better progressors of the ball when they did get forwards and showed some nice touches in the middle of the park.Fans will be left wondering whether he, Lavia and Enzo Fernandez fit into the same midfield.Enzo Fernandez – 5A mixed performance from the Argentine midfielder who showed promise in spells, but it really wasn’t the level you would expect of a player with his price tag.This could have been a huge game for the Chelsea captain for the day, but he failed to really stamp his mark on it in comparison to the player whom he replaced, Mateo Kovacic.Christopher Nkunku – 4Enzo Maresca seemed to want him playing as a touchline winger, but the forward looks far more comfortable in the middle of the pitch.He was the first player to be hooked in the second half and was replaced by Pedro Neto, who looked more at home wide on the left-hand side.Cole Palmer – 5It was far from the electric performance which saw him scoop heaps of praise last season. He still did show glimpses going forward, but he just failed to impact the game in the ways he did last time around.  Nicolas Jackson – 4New season, same old Nicolas Jackson.A great run in the first half was let down by a pea-roller of a shot into a Man City defender, before he hit the back of the net only to see the official’s flag raised on the far side. I’m sorry Nic Jackson, but it’s a four for you this time round…SUBS:Pedro Neto (Nkunku, 58) – 5Not the kind of debut that got fans out of their seats, but with The Blues failing to really get him on the ball there was little to take note of.Marc Guiu  (Jackson, 66) – 5Less impactful than Nicolas Jackson, but in considerably less time.For a player who can dominate physically, he looked a little intimidated by the Manchester City defence and wasn’t really presented with any chances.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (Lavia, 67) – 5Many Chelsea fans were disappointed to see Romeo Lavia come off after a good performance, and Dewsbury-Hall failed to add any of the attacking prowess we saw in the Championship last season.Renato Veiga  (Cucurella, 80) – 5He didn’t have enough time to impact the game after replacing Marc Cucurella, who had more time to establish himself as one of Chelsea’s better performers.  More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea star Lavia reveals Maresca’s key message to young squad and insists team are ‘winners’ despite Man City loss

      by

      ROMEO LAVIA insisted this Chelsea team is made up of ‘winners’ despite their opening-day defeat by Manchester City.The Belgian was one of the Blues’ star performers in Sunday’s 2-0 loss at Stamford Bridge, with Erling Haaland and Mateo Kovacic netting for the Premier League champions Romeo Lavia insisted Chelsea were ‘winners’ after their 2-0 defeat by Man CityCredit: AlamyNew boss Enzo Maresca has work to do with his new young teamCredit: GettyLavia was pleased with his display – which followed an excellent pre-season – and pleaded for ‘patience’ from Chelsea fans.The 20-year-old, who signed for £50million from Southampton a year ago, said: “I’m very happy to be back with the guys and have my first start in the Premier League for this amazing club.“It’s nice to hear that they (the fans) liked my performance, it’s mixed feelings because we didn’t get the win so I won’t get carried away too much – I’m not as pleased as maybe if we won.“The whole team is on the same page, from day one we knew that it’s a process and we can be happy that we managed to do something very good things against the best team in the world at the moment.”Read More FootballLavia is one of many young players brought in since Todd Boehly bought Chelsea – the average age of team against City was just 23.The midfielder, who lasted 67 minute before being replaced by Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, insisted the Blues can win something with kids.Lavia added: “We are young but very motivated players and winners.”You can talk about patience but we are competitors and we want to win. We want to show everyone that we can turn it around and get the results.”Most read in FootballHe also revealed the message new Blues boss Maresca is trying to drive home.FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSRomeo Lavia impressed in his return to PL action with ChelseaLavia said: “His main message was that we want to win.”Obviously he knows that it’s going to take time, he told us that, but at the same time we need to get the results because we’re good enough.Fans claim Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has ‘had enough’ just one game in after spotting what he did when Man City scored“It’s up to us now to do the job.”Chelsea added to their ranks last week with the signing of Pedro Neto from Wolves for £60m.Neto made his Blues debut against City, and has already impressed his team-mates in training.Lavia said: “He’s integrated very well and we’re happy to have him so it’s just about showing what he can do even though he’s already showed it in training. We’re pleased to have him.”Chelsea play Neto’s former club Wolves in their next league fixture.Pedro Neto plays against his old club Wolves in Chelsea’s next league gameCredit: GettyHarry Redknapp’s 2024/25 season predictions TOP FOURARSENAL, MANCHESTER CITY, LIVERPOOL and TOTTENHAM  — and  I’ve got a really strong feeling for Arsenal this season. A few of Man City’s star players are getting a bit older. There’s been nothing between the two teams over the past two years.RELEGATIONEVERTON (18th), SOUTHAMPTON (19th), LEICESTER (20th) — I like Sean Dyche and Everton are a great club with brilliant, knowledgeable fans. They’re just badly run. They need to go down to rebuild to come back again. But the key is new owners.TOP SCORERERLING HAALAND — I can’t see anyone taking his crown off him. He’s a goal machine, isn’t he? If I can get him at evens, I might lump on!MOST ASSISTSMARTIN ODEGAARD — He’ll be the catalyst for Arsenal’s surge to the title. I can see it now. He’s a superb player and he makes it look so easy.CARABAO CUPTOTTENHAM — Ange Postecoglou will break Spurs’ trophy curse. Most big teams will mess about with this trophy, but Tottenham will go full steam.FA CUPLIVERPOOL — I fancy Arne Slot to stamp his mark on English football quickly and there’s few better ways to do it than lifting this famous old trophy.CHAMPIONS LEAGUEREAL MADRID — Carlo Ancelotti is bullish about their chances. He has said that with Kylian Mbappe, it’s the best team they’ve had for a long time.EUROPA LEAGUEMANCHESTER UNITED — Clubs seem to have stopped sneering at this competition. And Spurs and United should be going both barrels for it.CONFERENCE LEAGUECHELSEA — The Luxembourg champions could be dangerous! Joking aside, the Blues must win it. More

    • 238 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Man City star Haaland brutally blanks Chelsea’s Cucurella in his hour of need as bitter rivalry takes another turn

      by

      ERLING HAALAND brutally blanked Marc Cucurella after the Chelsea star was hit with cramp.The pair seem to be building a feud after Cucurella mocked the striker with a funny song earlier this summer.Erling Haaland decided not to help Marc Cucurella as he suffered with crampCredit: RexTeam-mate Pedro Neto had to help out the SpaniardCredit: ReutersAfter winning the Euros with Spain the Chelsea defender sang about “Haaland trembling” when he goes near him.But it was Cucurella who lost out when the pair met at Stamford Bridge on the opening weekend.It took Haaland just 18 minutes to make Cucurella eat his words as he shrugged off the defender before dinking the ball into the back of the net.The Norwegian then landed another blow on his opponent by refusing to help when he had cramp.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLCucurella fell to the ground clutching his leg and called out to Haaland, who continued walking past without giving him aid.Team-mate Pedro Neto came to help the stricken Cucurella as fans enjoyed the ‘s***housery’ on display from Haaland.One reacted saying: “Football is so scripted 😭 Cucurella went from singing this to getting cramp and asking Haaland to help him. “Bro just walked straight past him and started laughing 🤣 I love this game.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnother added: “As if I just seen Cucurella begging Haaland to help his cramp and Haaland smiled and walked off😂 Just love to see it.”A third wrote: “Love Haaland walking past Cucurella when he asks for help with cramp 🤩”Chelsea vs Manchester City: Player Ratings BreakdownHaaland did not stop his torment there and after the game fired another dig at the Chelsea defender.He said: “Well, Cucurella is a funny man. Last season he asked for my shirt… and this summer he sings a song about me.”Harry Redknapp’s 2024/25 season predictions TOP FOURARSENAL, MANCHESTER CITY, LIVERPOOL and TOTTENHAM  — and  I’ve got a really strong feeling for Arsenal this season. A few of Man City’s star players are getting a bit older. There’s been nothing between the two teams over the past two years.RELEGATIONEVERTON (18th), SOUTHAMPTON (19th), LEICESTER (20th) — I like Sean Dyche and Everton are a great club with brilliant, knowledgeable fans. They’re just badly run. They need to go down to rebuild to come back again. But the key is new owners.TOP SCORERERLING HAALAND — I can’t see anyone taking his crown off him. He’s a goal machine, isn’t he? If I can get him at evens, I might lump on!MOST ASSISTSMARTIN ODEGAARD — He’ll be the catalyst for Arsenal’s surge to the title. I can see it now. He’s a superb player and he makes it look so easy.CARABAO CUPTOTTENHAM — Ange Postecoglou will break Spurs’ trophy curse. Most big teams will mess about with this trophy, but Tottenham will go full steam.FA CUPLIVERPOOL — I fancy Arne Slot to stamp his mark on English football quickly and there’s few better ways to do it than lifting this famous old trophy.CHAMPIONS LEAGUEREAL MADRID — Carlo Ancelotti is bullish about their chances. He has said that with Kylian Mbappe, it’s the best team they’ve had for a long time.EUROPA LEAGUEMANCHESTER UNITED — Clubs seem to have stopped sneering at this competition. And Spurs and United should be going both barrels for it.CONFERENCE LEAGUECHELSEA — The Luxembourg champions could be dangerous! Joking aside, the Blues must win it. More

    • 250 Shares119 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea fans fume at ‘major downgrade’ as ace who cost Man City £29m tears through £220m midfield with embarrassing ease

      by

      CHELSEA fans were left fuming after former player Mateo Kovacic waltzed through their midfield before finishing into the bottom corner.The goal wrapped up three points for Manchester City as they got their title defence off to the best possible start.Chelsea fans were left fuming after Mateo Kovacic waltzed through their midfield to scoreCredit: ReutersKovacic refused to celebrate after scoring against his former clubCredit: EPAErling Haaland opened the scoring after 18 minutes before Kovacic pulled off an audacious solo effort.The Croat glided past Moises Caicedo before leaving Enzo Fernandez for dead – a midfield pairing that cost Chelsea an eye-watering £220milion.He then unleashed a curling effort which Robert Sanchez could only parry into the bottom corner.Chelsea supporters fumed at the goal with many frustrated at the downgrade they made by selling Kovacic for £29m and buying Fernandez and Caicedo.READ MORE ON CHELSEAOne fan reacted to the goal saying: “Can’t imagine we traded Kovacic for Enzo. Major downgrade.”Another added: “Kovacic who left Chelsea for £29m strolls through a 220 million pound midfield of Caicedo (£105m) and Enzo (£115m) to seal the 3 points. Chelsea football club.”A third wrote: “Enzo and Caicedo ghosted past easily by Kovacic there for the second goal lol.”And another commented: “Kovacic came to show Enzo how to play his position.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSChelsea ratings vs Man CityCHELSEA began life under new boss Enzo Maresca with a 2-0 home defeat to champions Manchester City.Here’s how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the Chelsea lot as the season didn’t begin how they wanted.Robert Sanchez – 4/10Distribution-wise, it’s not good enough; that said, he made an absolutely fantastic save to deny a deflected effort from Jeremy Doku in the first half. Similarly in the second half, made a routine save to deny Erling Haaland before getting a hand to Mateo Kovacic’s shot, but failed to stop it rattling the back of the net.Malo Gusto – 5It’s more of the impressive attitude we saw last season from the flying Frenchman, but today, he couldn’t stamp his mark on the game at all going forward. We certainly see more of his best qualities in the game where Chelsea have more of the ball, he should grow into the season nicely over the next few games. Wesley Fofana – 5He didn’t look out of his depth in his first Premier League game for Chelsea for over a year, and despite conceding, it was a decent performance to build on in the coming games. Did well physically against Haaland in fairness, and made it through the 90 minutes unscathed which will please Chelsea fans in some capacity.Levi Colwill – 5Tough day at the office against physicality personified in Erling Haaland.Did play the ball well out from the back for Chelsea with a few good blocks and tackles. But much the same as with Wesley Fofana, there is room for growth into the season with easier fixtures upcoming, particularly where Chelsea will dominate on the ball.  Marc Cucurella  – 6Forced Jeremy Doku into a change of wing in the first half after winning a tough battle against the Belgian winger, and stepped into challenges well for the most part.Was solid again in the second half before going off with an injury. Romeo Lavia – 6He looked like a calming presence in the Chelsea midfield when he did get the ball and he broke up play pretty well for a player who has been out through injury for so long. Continued his good pre-season form and is deserving of a run  in the side. Moises Caicedo – 5A similar performance really to the aforementioned Lavia, but was one of Chelsea’s better progressors of the ball when they did get forwards and showed some nice touches in the middle of the park.Fans will be left wondering whether he, Lavia and Enzo Fernandez fit into the same midfield.Enzo Fernandez – 5A mixed performance from the Argentine midfielder who showed promise in spells, but it really wasn’t the level you would expect of a player with his price tag.This could have been a huge game for the Chelsea captain for the day, but he failed to really stamp his mark on it in comparison to the player whom he replaced, Mateo Kovacic.Christopher Nkunku – 4Enzo Maresca seemed to want him playing as a touchline winger, but the forward looks far more comfortable in the middle of the pitch.He was the first player to be hooked in the second half and was replaced by Pedro Neto, who looked more at home wide on the left-hand side.Cole Palmer – 5It was far from the electric performance which saw him scoop heaps of praise last season. He still did show glimpses going forward, but he just failed to impact the game in the ways he did last time around.  Nicolas Jackson – 4New season, same old Nicolas Jackson.A great run in the first half was let down by a pea-roller of a shot into a Man City defender, before he hit the back of the net only to see the official’s flag raised on the far side. I’m sorry Nic Jackson, but it’s a four for you this time round…SUBS:Pedro Neto (Nkunku, 58) – 5Not the kind of debut that got fans out of their seats, but with The Blues failing to really get him on the ball there was little to take note of.Marc Guiu  (Jackson, 66) – 5Less impactful than Nicolas Jackson, but in considerably less time.For a player who can dominate physically, he looked a little intimidated by the Manchester City defence and wasn’t really presented with any chances.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (Lavia, 67) – 5Many Chelsea fans were disappointed to see Romeo Lavia come off after a good performance, and Dewsbury-Hall failed to add any of the attacking prowess we saw in the Championship last season.Renato Veiga  (Cucurella, 80) – 5He didn’t have enough time to impact the game after replacing Marc Cucurella, who had more time to establish himself as one of Chelsea’s better performers. Fernandez arrived at Chelsea for £106m in February 2023 and has been made captain by new boss Enzo Maresca despite failing to live up to his price tag.Caicedo arrived the following summer for £115m with Blues beating Liverpool to his signature.Harry Redknapp runs rule over new Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca ahead of new Premier League season More

    • 200 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea fans slam ‘weak wrists’ Robert Sanchez as ‘Kepa regen’ after keeper’s howler against Man City

      by

      CHELSEA fans are worried they have another goalkeeping flop on their hands.The Blues were chasing an equaliser against Manchester City when former midfielder Mateo Kovacic let loose from range.Robert Sanchez was close to keeping out Mateo Kovacic’s effortCredit: AFPThe Spaniard was beaten twice as Man City wonCredit: GettyMateo Kovacic stung his former clubCredit: ReutersHis effort gave City a 2-0 lead but Robert Sanchez got a hand on it and probably should have kept it out.Chelsea fans on social media saw shades of Kepa Arrizabalaga in the ex-Brighton keeper, 26.One wrote: “Sanchez has weaker wrists than Kepa. Wasn’t even a hard shot!”A second added: “no WAY we have a kepa regen.”READ MORE CHELSEA NEWAA third said: “How many times did this club need to see Robert Sanchez be absolutely diabolical to realise he was absolutely diabolical. It actually boils my blood. He’s terrible, he’s a calamity. GET HIM OUT.”A fourth fumed: “No manager who starts Robert Sanchez in 2024 gets sympathy from me.”Chelsea were second best for long periods at Stamford Bridge and it was no surprise to see Erling Haaland give City the lead.Nicolas Jackson thought he had netted an equaliser but saw his effort chalked off for offside.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnd after a decent second-half spell for the Blues, City took control again and Kovacic settled the contest.Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca told BBC Match of the Day: “The performance was good and we competed against the best team in the world. Robert Sanchez shows off his unbelievable reflexes in Spain training “We played well and created chances. The biggest difference was inside the box and how they managed the ball at the end, they are a master. “We don’t like to lose games but the performance was good.”We can for sure improve many things, we’ve been together for just six weeks. “At the same moment, we liked to analyse the game and we tried to play football and create chances. It’s not easy but we did well.”It’s always tough because many of them deserve to play from the start. “We have another game soon so they have chances to play for sure.” More

    • 200 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      Why does Martin Odegaard place his hands over his ears after scoring a goal for Arsenal?

      by

      PLAYERS often celebrate goals with unique gestures that reflect their personalities and sentiments, turning each goal into a personal statement of triumph and individuality. With the Premier League back in full swing, it’s the perfect time to see how players like Odegaard are making their mark on the game.Martin Odegaard had his senior debut at the age of 15Credit: GettyWho is Martin Odegaard?Martin Odegaard, born on December 17, 1998, in Drammen, Norway, is a professional footballer.He plays as a midfielder and captains both Arsenal in the Premier League and the Norway national team.His career began at age 15 with Strømsgodset, where he became the youngest player in Norway’s top division, Tippeligaen, and its youngest goalscorer. In 2015, he signed with Real Madrid, where he initially struggled for consistent playing time. read more on martin odegaardHe spent several seasons on loan at clubs including Heerenveen, Vitesse, and Real Sociedad, where he won the Copa del Rey in 2019.Odegaard joined Arsenal on loan in January 2021 and made a strong impression, leading to a permanent transfer later in the year. He was appointed Arsenal captain in 2022 and has since been a key player, earning awards such as Arsenal Player of the Season for 2022–23 and being named in the Premier League Team of the Year.Internationally, Odegaard made his senior debut for Norway at just 15 years old, becoming the youngest player to represent the country. Most read in FootballHe was later named Norway’s national team captain in March 2021.Why does Martin Odegaard place his hands over his ears after scoring a goal?Odegaard was defended by his manger for his celebrationCredit: AlamyMartin Odegaard’s celebration with his hands over his ears is a response to criticism he received, particularly from Jamie Carragher. After Arsenal’s 3-1 victory over Liverpool earlier in the 2023/24 season, Carragher criticised Odegaard for his celebratory actions.He suggested he was overdoing it and should move on quickly from the moment.His gesture of placing his hands over his ears can be seen as a symbolic way of blocking out outside criticism and noise, showing that he is unfazed by the negative feedback and is focused on his performance and feelings.It’s a way for him to assert his individuality and confidence despite external opinions.When inquired about the meaning behind Odegaard’s distinctive celebration, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta told reporters: “I don’t know. I didn’t notice that he made that gesture.”But he was really happy in the dressing room with the way he played again today. “I think he was exceptional.”I don’t think he needs to send any message. “He needs to be himself and he needs to do what he feels. “And if he feels to do something, do it and deal with the consequences because some people are going to like it and some people won’t.”This unique celebration follows a trend among his Arsenal colleagues, who each have their distinct ways of marking their achievements. For instance, Gabriel Jesus often mimics holding a ‘phone’ to his ear, adding a playful touch to his celebrations. Kai Havertz, on the other hand, cups his ears after scoring and Bukayo Saka celebrates by holding the corner flag.Each player’s celebration style adds a personal touch to their on-field success and reflects their individuality.READ MORE SUN STORIESHow many goals has Martin Odegaard scored for Arsenal?As of August 2024, Martin Odegaard has scored 31 goals in 123 Premier League appearances for Arsenal. His goal-scoring record highlights his significant contribution to the team, showcasing his ability to impact matches as a midfielder. More

    • 263 Shares119 Views

      in Soccer

      Rival Premier League fans say ‘I feel sick’ as Man City’s £21m new-boy Savinho turns out to be ‘Riyad Mahrez regen’

      by

      PREMIER LEAGUE fans are fuming that Manchester City got their hands on Savinho.The seven-cap Brazil ace made his debut on Sunday after arriving from sister club Troyes in a £21million deal last month.Savinho looked superb on his Man City debutCredit: ReutersHe was unfortunately forced off injuredCredit: ReutersRiyad Mahrez is a Man City legendCredit: GettyThat fee, which could rise to £33.6m, is already looking like a bargain.Savinho started on the left flank but switched wings with Jeremy Doku after 15 minutes,He looked comfortable on the opposite side until injury forced him off at half-time, showing a few flashes of the ability.And that was all rival supporters needed to see – comparing the winger to Riyad Mahrez.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOne posted: “Savinho man. They got themselves a Mahrez regen. I feel sick.”Another added: “I see mahrez everytime I watch savinho.”A third wrote: “Savinho is giving Mahrez regen vibes.”A fourth posted: “Savinho is good. He reminds me of mahrez, direct, take your man on and create chaos. Bargain.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSErling Haaland opened the scoring as City began their campaign with a 2-0 win at Chelsea.The Blues put up a fight but former midfielder Mateo Kovacic settled the tie with a late long-range effort.Manchester City challenging the Premier League and its entire rulebook in a court case with millions of pounds of damages on the lineHe told Sky Sports: “We are missing some big players.“I had a longer break so I could recover better, I wanted to be ready for the beginning of the season.“[Regarding Rodri’s absence] I played some kind of his role today, but we are always missing Rodri.“He is, if not, one of the best in the world.“I don’t score many goals, and when you score you want to celebrate.What will happen to Man City?MAN CITY are favourites to win the Premier League title yet again – but there is one elephant in the room that threatens to put the skids under the Etihad giants.Sunsport’s MARTIN LIPTON discusses what the next few months could hold with Head of Sport SHAUN CUSTIS….Custis: So the big question – will there be a resolution this season?Lipton: Yes…. probably! We know the case will start to be dealt with in October or November.It will take at least a month to go through the evidence. So I suspect around March, April time, we will get a result. But that’s where it starts to get tricky.Custis: Why is that?Lipton: If the result is in City’s favour, that’s the end of the matter. They will be cleared. They will have no punishment to face.But if City are found guilty, these will be the heaviest penalties ever imposed by the Premier League.I suspect if they are found guilty, they will be expelled from the league or given a massive points deduction and a huge fine so that they’re not in the Premier League next season.Check out the full discussion on Man City’s future.“But I have huge respect for Chelsea. I spent five years here.READ MORE SUN STORIES“I scored but that is not always the most important thing for me, the most important is winning.“This team is so hungry and it’s a pleasure to be a part of it and win titles.” More

    • 275 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Fans claim Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has ‘had enough’ just one game in after spotting what he did when Man City scored

      by

      FANS reckon Chelsea owner Todd Boehly might already have “had enough” after spotting his reaction during Manchester City’s 2-0 win.Boehly was seen abruptly getting up from his Stamford Bridge seat and heading inside when Mateo Kovacic struck late on to finish off his old club.Todd Boehly was stern-faced amid Chelsea’s opening-day lossCredit: RexBoehly surprised many fans with this reactionCredit: Sky SportsMateo Kovacic sealed Man City’s victory at his old clubCredit: AlamyErling Haaland had earlier hit the opener – his 91st goal in 100 matches for Pep Guardiola’s men – on the first Sunday of the Premier League season.One supporter then posted “OMG it’s over” when a clip of Boehly’s reaction to Kovacic’s brilliant curler on 84 minutes was shown.The stony-faced American businessman turned and headed off.”He’s out,” said one viewer – although he added a laughing emoji.READ MORE TOP STORIESChampions City ruined Enzo Maresca’s first Prem game as a manager, albeit in an often-tame contest.And one fan said of Boehly: “He is either going to sack ‘Mascara’ or he wants to sign Kovacic back.”Another wrote: “When is he sacking Maresca?”Chelsea have brought in a dozen new senior players over the summer.Most read in FootballThe American didn’t look back as he quickly strode offCredit: Sky SportsFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSAnd there was no room in the matchday squad for superstars like Raheem Sterling, Conor Gallagher and Romelu Lukaku.And after the Blues’ latest spending spree failed to reap instant dividends, one fan posted: “He will now sign another goalkeeper and 3 attackers.”Raging Chelsea fans fume ‘Todd Boehly just doesn’t get it’ after ‘cringeworthy’ and ‘embarrassing’ Stamford Bridge stuntKovacic made it 2-0 late on after Erling Haaland’s 18th-minute openerCredit: GettyBoehly didn’t even turn to look back as he strode away in the closing stages.In truth, Chelsea had pressed for an equaliser after the break, only for City’s Rico Lewis to have a goal ruled out before Kovacic netted the clincher. He’ll know it’s far too soon to draw conclusions over Maresca’s new-look side.But that wasn’t the impression given by his response to City’s killer goal.And talking of looks, it wasn’t a good image for Chelsea fans to see him heading away in such a stern fashion.”What a club,” scoffed one observer.And another joked: “Boehly fleeing the scene to check the transfer market for more useless signings.”Chelsea ratings vs Man CityCHELSEA began life under new boss Enzo Maresca with a 2-0 home defeat to champions Manchester City.Here’s how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the Chelsea lot as the season didn’t begin how they wanted.Robert Sanchez – 4/10Distribution-wise, it’s not good enough; that said, he made an absolutely fantastic save to deny a deflected effort from Jeremy Doku in the first half. Similarly in the second half, made a routine save to deny Erling Haaland before getting a hand to Mateo Kovacic’s shot, but failed to stop it rattling the back of the net.Malo Gusto – 5It’s more of the impressive attitude we saw last season from the flying Frenchman, but today, he couldn’t stamp his mark on the game at all going forward. We certainly see more of his best qualities in the game where Chelsea have more of the ball, he should grow into the season nicely over the next few games. Wesley Fofana – 5He didn’t look out of his depth in his first Premier League game for Chelsea for over a year, and despite conceding, it was a decent performance to build on in the coming games. Did well physically against Haaland in fairness, and made it through the 90 minutes unscathed which will please Chelsea fans in some capacity.Levi Colwill – 5Tough day at the office against physicality personified in Erling Haaland.Did play the ball well out from the back for Chelsea with a few good blocks and tackles. But much the same as with Wesley Fofana, there is room for growth into the season with easier fixtures upcoming, particularly where Chelsea will dominate on the ball.  Marc Cucurella  – 6Forced Jeremy Doku into a change of wing in the first half after winning a tough battle against the Belgian winger, and stepped into challenges well for the most part.Was solid again in the second half before going off with an injury. Romeo Lavia – 6He looked like a calming presence in the Chelsea midfield when he did get the ball and he broke up play pretty well for a player who has been out through injury for so long. Continued his good pre-season form and is deserving of a run  in the side. Moises Caicedo – 5A similar performance really to the aforementioned Lavia, but was one of Chelsea’s better progressors of the ball when they did get forwards and showed some nice touches in the middle of the park.Fans will be left wondering whether he, Lavia and Enzo Fernandez fit into the same midfield.Enzo Fernandez – 5A mixed performance from the Argentine midfielder who showed promise in spells, but it really wasn’t the level you would expect of a player with his price tag.This could have been a huge game for the Chelsea captain for the day, but he failed to really stamp his mark on it in comparison to the player whom he replaced, Mateo Kovacic.Christopher Nkunku – 4Enzo Maresca seemed to want him playing as a touchline winger, but the forward looks far more comfortable in the middle of the pitch.He was the first player to be hooked in the second half and was replaced by Pedro Neto, who looked more at home wide on the left-hand side.Cole Palmer – 5It was far from the electric performance which saw him scoop heaps of praise last season. He still did show glimpses going forward, but he just failed to impact the game in the ways he did last time around.  Nicolas Jackson – 4New season, same old Nicolas Jackson.A great run in the first half was let down by a pea-roller of a shot into a Man City defender, before he hit the back of the net only to see the official’s flag raised on the far side. I’m sorry Nic Jackson, but it’s a four for you this time round…SUBS:Pedro Neto (Nkunku, 58) – 5Not the kind of debut that got fans out of their seats, but with The Blues failing to really get him on the ball there was little to take note of.Marc Guiu  (Jackson, 66) – 5Less impactful than Nicolas Jackson, but in considerably less time.For a player who can dominate physically, he looked a little intimidated by the Manchester City defence and wasn’t really presented with any chances.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (Lavia, 67) – 5Many Chelsea fans were disappointed to see Romeo Lavia come off after a good performance, and Dewsbury-Hall failed to add any of the attacking prowess we saw in the Championship last season.Renato Veiga  (Cucurella, 80) – 5He didn’t have enough time to impact the game after replacing Marc Cucurella, who had more time to establish himself as one of Chelsea’s better performers.  More