Liverpool manager Arne Slot has admitted he's been left baffled by his team's disastrous run of results in the Premier League. The defending champions have lost six of their last seven matches in the competition and now sit in the bottom half of the table. However, Slot has defended his players, pointing out they have won three of their last four games in the Champions League.

Liverpool in crisis as form collapses

Liverpool's defeat to Nottingham Forest last time out in the Premier League has brought fresh scrutiny on Slot, with the club's hopes of retaining their Premier League title in absolute tatters after just 12 games of the season. The Dutchman has managed just six wins so far in the 2025-26 campaign despite a big summer that brought huge investment in players including Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong.

AdvertisementGetty Images SportSlot baffled by Liverpool's dreadful run

Slot has admitted he's at a loss to explain his side's poor run but has defended his team by highlighting their form in the Champions League, which has brought wins over Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid and Eintracht Frankfurt.

The Liverpool boss told TNT Sports: "I'm also, like so many others, almost confused. Like, how is this possible with so much quality available that I cannot find a winning way with my team? Which is also not completely true, because people could also say we've won two out of the last four. We've won three out of four Champions League games. But it's clear that we've lost far too many games."

Slot hails Liverpool's great signings

One of Liverpool's problems this season has been that big-money signings such as Isak, Wirtz and Kerkez are yet to make much of an impact. However, Slot has backed his new men and says they are great signings by the club.

"Everybody is surprised, including me. If you win the league, of course we’ve made a few changes, but we’ve also made a few changes where I thought, we thought, but I was the first one who thought that we would benefit from. [We’ve] made some great signings. Players that stayed behind have been so important for us. Then you don’t expect to go into a run of games that we have been in. Even if we hadn’t made a signing or all the players had left, you don’t expect Liverpool to lose in the Premier League six out of seven times," he added.

"There are never enough excuses for me to explain what has happened. That is also what makes it difficult for me because I’m the type of person who likes to explain things. If you can explain things you can find a solution for things."

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Liverpool leaking goals

Slot also spoke about how his team can get their form back on track, explaining: "I don’t think this is a moment about learning from the past, it’s looking forward. I want to play with a team that is doing all the things we did last season. I’ve seen a lot of similar things but there are one or two details and these details have cost us a lot, that are different to last season. One of those details is that last season, until this moment of time, we didn’t concede one set-piece at all and now we’ve conceded nine [in the Premier League]. Generally speaking, it’s still a team that has the ball a lot, it’s still a team that generates enough chances, but it’s also a team that again – I’m responsible for that – concedes far too many goals. It feels as if we are close to going to different results but doing the simple things right is maybe harder than I thought it was."

Josh Hazlewood is confident one Sheffield Shield game will be enough for him and Mitchell Starc before the Ashes, with the quick likely to skip three T20Is against India to play for New South Wales.Hazlewood and Starc were on Tuesday both named in Australia’s squad to face India in three ODIs later this month, which kicks off the main part of the home summer.Related

• 'He doesn't need much' – Starc says Cummins can play off limited preparation

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• Doubts over Cummins' fitness for first Ashes Test grow, return remains unknown

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• Hazlewood: England will bring an 'unbelievable' batting line-up for the Ashes

Five T20Is then follow, and while Starc has retired from that format, Hazlewood has been listed in the squad for the first two of those games on October 29 and 31.Australian officials are keeping an open mind to Ashes preparations, ahead of the first Test in Perth beginning on November 21.But the most likely scenario remains having the duo play for NSW against Victoria in a Shield match from November 10, before a one-week preparation into the first Test.”We’ve definitely had chats about fitting in a Shield game,” Hazlewood said at a Cricket Australia sponsorship announcement with Woolworths on Monday. “I do think it’s important when there’s time for it. You don’t want to squeeze things in or rush for it.”This year I’m going to miss a couple of T20s to do that. Which I certainly don’t like doing, missing games for Australia. But in the long run it is about getting the best prep for the Ashes as well. You can’t have everything and that’s the trade off at the moment.”Josh Hazlewood will work through ODIs and T20Is during October•Getty Images

It creates the potential for a star-studded NSW side to take the field at the SCG. Nathan Lyon is eyeing three out of the first four Shield matches before the first Test and is expected to miss the round two fixture at Junction Oval which would leave him to face Queensland at the Gabba then Victoria in Sydney.It’s understood that Steve Smith is also in line to play while Sam Konstas will likely line up, although by then he will know his Test fate with the squad due to be named after the third round of Shield fixtures.Pat Cummins will sit out the white-ball matches against India as he fights to recover from his back issues in time for the first Test.Hazlewood said playing the ODIs would also help with preparation, with three games in the space of a week offering a reasonable workload.There is a fine balance for the 34-year-old to strike, given he is still eying off playing in the T20 World Cup in February before another ODI tournament in 2027.”That’s why I put my hand up for as many tours as I can,” Hazlewood said. “Even if I only play two out of three on a tour, it just means I am still touching base with those formats.”My game doesn’t change too much. I have been around long enough to duck and dive in each format and chop and change.”Hazlewood said it was possible for him to play all five Ashes Tests, with lengthy gaps between the first three helping bowlers manage their fitness.

Ryan Reynolds has revealed that a Wrexham player called him up in the middle of the night over fears about the club's docuseries "upending his life". Not long after he and Rob Mac took ownership of the Welsh side, fly-on-the-wall show 'Welcome to Wrexham' hit TV screens, helping to expand their global audience. While many love the series, one "very upset" Red Dragons player pleaded with Reynolds to edit one part of it.

• Welcome to Wrexham success

  When Reynolds and Mac took over Wrexham in 2021, they had a vision to massively increase the club's profile. A great way to do that was with a behind-the-scenes documentary, and sure enough, 'Welcome to Wrexham' was born. The show has just finished its fourth season, with the series detailing their rise from the National League all the way up to the Championship in a few short years. As they target the holy grail that is the Premier League, a fifth season of the show, which has won eight Emmy Awards and two Critics' Choice TV Awards, is in the pipeline. But not everyone has been a fan of the documentary. In fact, one unnamed Wrexham player once rang Reynolds in the dead of night, asking the Hollywood actor to take a certain scene out of the production.  

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  'He was freaking out'

  The Canadian didn't reveal which player called him but did say they were "freaking out" and begged him to edit part of an episode. Reynolds, who was filming Deadpool and Wolverine at the time, thought his request wouldn't be fulfilled, but lo and behold, it was.

  "I remember there was an issue on Welcome to Wrexham where a player had some kind of issue. He was freaking out because there was something in the opening credits that would upend his life in some way," the 49-year-old said while speaking at The Wall Street Journal's CMO Council Summit. "I'm not getting into it, but he called me so upset and said, 'Can you please get this thing out of the credits?' I was like, 'Man, in Poland, someone is watching this show right now. You don't just pull something off streaming, edit it and then put it back up'. He's like, 'Please, please, just try'. It was two in the morning, I was editing Deadpool and Wolverine at night and shooting a movie in the day. I'm at my wits' end, but I asked. It turns out I was dead f**king wrong. You can actually pull something down and you can edit."

• A football documentary with heart

  For the uninitiated, casual viewers may see a show with comedy actors Reynolds and Mac and think it will be all fun and laughs. But one thing that is very important to the duo about this series is that it does a deep dive on the town of Wrexham and the lives the football club affects. 

  Previously, Reynolds has said: "If you’re just reading the headlines, you probably think, ‘Oh, this show is going to be funny'. It’s gonna be a fish-out-of-water story about two schmucky showbiz morons going in, falling on their asses, learning as they go. But the show literally does not centre us. It centres the town. That’s always the wonderful thing about doing a docuseries, is that your job is just to listen. You can either jam something into your pre-existing vision or you can listen and allow it to become what it’s meant to become. Thankfully we did the latter. Ultimately, we got very lucky because even if you’re not rooting for Rob or Ryan, it’s pretty hard not to root for this town."

  Mac added: "After the first episode aired, I was grateful to hear from several people that there was a collective sigh of relief that we weren’t there to make exploitative television, we were there to celebrate them."

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  What comes next for Wrexham?

  After securing three straight promotions in as many years, Wrexham are now trying their hand at Championship football under head coach Phil Parkinson. After, somewhat, breezing through League Two and League One, the English second-tier is proving to be a tougher nut to crack for Phil Parkinson's team. They sit 15th in the division but are just four points off the play-offs. Wrexham spent big this summer to try and launch an assault on the Championship's promotion spots, but whether they achieve that goal is up in the air.

The early MLB season is often ripe for obscure storylines brought on by tiny nuances to the game. In a season with 162 games, hundreds of pitches, and plenty of tedium, the smallest things wind up really mattering. Some years, it's foreign substances applied to baseballs for extra grip. This year has already brought on the bat shape discussion.

Now? A change of 1.25 inches is completely unsettling pitchers and catchers.

's Jayson Stark, Ken Rosenthal and Eno Sarris released a reported piece on Thursday night detailing MLB's strike zone and how it appears to be being called differently this year than in prior seasons. Notably, the league has given a directive to umpires to call smaller strike zones, but it did agree on a new collective bargaining agreement with umpires that changed how home plate umpires' balls and strikes are graded. Previously, the CBA gave umpires a two-inch grace zone on all four sides of the zone. This season, that grace zone was reduced to 0.75 inches, a 62.5% reduction.

Pitchers and catchers, as well as managers, expressed frustration over the perceived strike zone shrinkage in the aftermath of the adjustment in's article. Travis d'Arnaud, catcher for the Los Angeles Angels, said that, "Every [umpire] across the league [has shrunk their zone].”

To reiterate: the strike zone remains unchanged, but the league's grading system appears to have had behavioral impacts with how picky umpires are with balls and strikes. It's a classic case of, "measure what matters."

The MLB says it discussed the changes with managers at the December winter meetings, but several of the managers spoke to said they had no recollection of such a change, despite at least one, Padres manager Mike Shildt, labeling it something that would have been on his radar to make sure players and coaches knew of the change.

The report shared that a competition committee meeting on Friday is expected to touch on the impacts of the change.

Tottenham Hotspur haven’t been alien to spending big money in the transfer market over the last couple of years, with the hierarchy evidently wanting to take the club up the Premier League table.

Thomas Frank was the beneficiary in the summer window, as the Dane was handed over £120m worth of funds to make the additions he desired to his Lilywhites squad.

Mohammed Kudus and Xavi Simons both made moves worth over £50m to North London during the summer, subsequently arriving to strengthen the quality available in the final third.

The pair have registered 13 combined goals and assists between them, with both managing to find the back of the net during Tuesday night’s Champions League win over Slavia Prague.

However, despite the successes of both players in recent weeks, the manager and the board look as though they want to make added reinforcements in the final third this winter.

Spurs’ potential move to land Antoine Semenyo in January

As Spurs fans will have seen over recent years, the Premier League has become one of the most fiercely contested leagues in the world, which could result in any side being punished on their day.

In the early stages of 2025/26, the Lilywhites appear to have forgotten about the struggles of last season, but they have still struggled on home soil – subsequently winning two league games in North London.

However, in an attempt to improve their form in attacking areas this winter, Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo has been identified as a primary target by the Spurs hierarchy.

The Ghanaian international has been in tremendous form this campaign, as seen by his tally of six goals and three assists in his first 14 league appearances for the Cherries.

As a result, Fabio Paratici has been monitoring the 25-year-old over recent weeks, especially after it was confirmed his £65m release clause becomes active from the 1st of January.

However, such a move could prove to be complicated, with Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool also closely monitoring the progress of the in-form attacker.

It’s also been suggested that the player would prefer a move to the Emirates if he were to leave Bournemouth this January, which could be Frank’s men on their back burner.

The Spurs star who should be sold to fund Semenyo transfer

Over the years, the Spurs board have made numerous questionable decisions that have proved to be mistakes, which have often resulted in huge sums of money being wasted.

From spending £63m on the signature of Tanguy Ndombele, to allowing numerous high-profile youngsters to leave on a free – it truly has been a period to forget for the board.

However, they do have another chance to redeem themselves in the upcoming winter, with the hierarchy needing to go all out in a bid to land Semenyo’s signature.

If they are to generate the funds needed to complete a move for his signature, they could turn to offload numerous players who are already on the books in North London.

Injury-prone players like Dominic Solanke and Richarlison would likely spring to the mind of many supporters – but midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur should be the first star offloaded.

The Uruguayan originally joined the club from Juventus back in January 2022, with such a move generating excitement at the time, but it’s safe to say that feeling has massively changed in recent times.

In 2025/26 to date, he’s featured in all but one Premier League outing, even receiving a new long-term contract back in October, but he’s struggled to perform since such an occasion.

Archie Gray has been selected ahead of him over the last couple of matches, with the Englishman now seemingly appearing ahead of him after his tremendous Champions League showing.

Games played

14

Goals & assists

2

Pass accuracy

84%

Chances created

0.6

Successful dribbles

0.5

Tackles won

1.1

Aerials won

47%

Interceptions made

1.1

The teenager partnered Joao Palhinha at the base of the side, showing talents way beyond his tender years, which are only going to get better in the years ahead.

As for Bentancur, his recent showings have been nothing short of disappointing, even leading to one analyst dubbing him as “embarrassing” due to his lack of work rate.

The midfielder, who’s currently earning £75k-per-week, has failed to kick on after his contract renewal, with the board potentially hindering the progress of Gray, Lucas Bergvall and Pape Sarr by keeping him.

It’s unclear how much the hierarchy could generate by offloading him in the upcoming window, but it could well prove to be enough to help them in their pursuit of Semenyo.

Whilst the decision may appear harsh, it’s one that needs to be made for the interests of the club if they are to reach the next level during Frank’s tenure in North London.

Fewer touches than Vicario & only 9 passes: Spurs flop must now be dropped

Thomas Frank must now drop one Tottenham Hotspur player after the Slavia Prague victory.

ByEthan Lamb 5 days ago

West Ham United are now preparing a January offer to sign an impressive midfielder for Nuno Espirito Santo after entering pole position, according to reports.

West Ham plotting January striker move

Despite their improved form under Nuno Espirito Santo, West Ham remain in the Premier League’s relegation zone and two points adrift of safety. It’s a major concern for the Hammers with Christmas approaching and there’s simply no denying that they must enjoy a busy January transfer window if they are to avoid what would be a disastrous relegation.

Adding another clinical goalscorer to their ranks should sit top of their priority list on that front. Whilst Callum Wilson has shown plenty of quality, there remain plenty of questions over his ability to stay fit and firing for a full campaign.

If it’s not the former Newcastle man, however, then it becomes tough for Nuno to select a reliable, natural striker without sacrificing Jarrod Bowen’s work out wide. That has to change in January.

As for potential targets, names like Santiago Gimenez have been mentioned ahead of next month in a deal which could kill two birds with one stone. Reports have claimed that West Ham could strike a swap deal with AC Milan which would see Niclas Fullkrug head in the opposite direction.

Those at the London Stadium could also add to their midfield after they welcome a new No.9, with midfield star Tochukwu Nnadi quickly becoming a serious option.

West Ham now preparing Tochukwu Nnadi offer

According to TeamTalk, West Ham are now preparing a bid to sign Nnadi after entering pole position for his signature and sending scouts to watch the Zulte Waregem midfielder.

The Hammers are preparing a €4m (£3.5m) move to sign the Nigerian, who scouts described as “relentless” when speaking to TeamTalk ahead of the January transfer window.

At 5’7, Nnadi makes up for his smaller stature with his ability to win duels, break up play and drive his team forward – all traits that West Ham’s midfield has been lacking at times this season.

Before Lucas Paqueta: Nuno must finally cash in on "shocking" West Ham star

The big-money flop has to be a part of a clean-out at West Ham United next month.

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Jack Salveson Holmes

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With the future of Guido Rodriguez still in doubt at West Ham, a move for Nnadi would make perfect sense next month. In one move, Nuno could bid farewell to a transfer flop and welcome a much-needed upgrade.

Striker greenlights January exit with West Ham bid expected ahead of immediate move

Manchester United’s system under Ruben Amorim has led to huge questions being asked about the manager and his ability to lead the side forward in the future.

The 40-year-old has consistently used a 3-4-2-1 system at Old Trafford since his appointment last November, but the formation hasn’t worked as many would have expected.

He could only lead the Red Devils to a 15th-place finish in the Premier League last season, whilst also suffering a defeat in the final of the Europa League to Tottenham Hotspur.

The recent defeat against Everton on home soil led to further questions being directed his way, especially after refusing to move away from his tactics and push more attacking players forward.

However, the manager has desired additions of numerous players ahead of the January transfer window, with the midfield department one that looks set to be bolstered.

Man Utd’s hunt for a new midfielder in January

Over the last couple of weeks, United have ramped up their pursuit of Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson ahead of a potential move in the January window.

It’s been reported that the Red Devils are willing to complete a deal in the coming weeks for the England international after his remarkable start to the current campaign.

However, bitter rivals Manchester City have also now entered the race for the 23-year-old’s signature, which could lead to a huge battle for his services in the months ahead.

He’s not the only Premier League option currently in their sights at present, with Bournemouth star Tyler Adams another player being considered by INEOS ahead of January.

According to the Daily Mail, the hierarchy have held internal talks over a deal to land the American international who has started every Premier League game this season.

It also states that he’s seen as a cheaper option to improve the midfield department, but it remains to be seen if the Cherries would sanction his departure during the winter.

Why United’s latest target would end Mainoo’s stay

Just a couple of years ago, it appeared as though Kobbie Mainoo would be a crucial first-team member for United for many years to come, but it appears as though his time at the club could be coming to an end.

The midfielder has gone from a regular starter and an England international, to now being a player who has been massively restricted to substitute appearances off the bench.

His tally of nine league appearances, none of which were from a starting position, showcases the lack of faith the 40-year-old currently has in the 20-year-old sensation.

Unsurprisingly, the player has grown frustrated at the Red Devils in recent weeks, which has led to the player himself even requesting a move away ahead of January.

If the manager is simply refusing to utilise the youngster, it’s crucial he makes the next step in his career to continue his development and get back onto his recent trajectory.

It remains unclear whether the hierarchy will sanction a move away from Old Trafford for Mainoo, but his career at the club would be all but over with a move for Adams.

Should the American join, it would push him further down the pecking order, with the Bournemouth star producing some incredible numbers over the last couple of months for Andoni Iraola’s side.

Adams, who’s been labelled a “monster” by journalist Tomi Oladipo, has completed 88% of the passes he’s attempted, at an average of 45 per 90 – with both ranking him in the top 25% of all midfielders in the division.

Such numbers showcase his composed nature in possession, but that’s also reaffirmed by his tally of 0.3 times dispossessed per 90, which ranks him in the top 15% in the league.

Games played

14

Goals scored

2

Pass accuracy

88%

Passes per 90

45

Times dispossessed

0.3

Tackles won

2.6

Interceptions made

1.6

Duels won

52%

However, out of possession, he’s been just as impressive, as seen by his phenomenal tallies of 2.6 tackles won and 1.6 interceptions made per 90 to date.

Despite his small frame, the American has also won 52% of the duels he’s entered, whilst completing 48% of the dribbles he’s attempted – further highlighting his all-round talents at the heart of the side.

It’s unclear if his current employers would sanction a departure in the coming weeks, but it’s evident that United would be getting themselves an incredible Premier League talent.

As for Mainoo, it appears to be the end at his boyhood club given his recent lack of action, with the player needing a move to reignite the spark in his professional career.

Cunha 2.0: INEOS to fast-track Man Utd bid for 'best winger in England'

Manchester United look set to make a huge move for one player in the upcoming January window.

ByEthan Lamb Dec 5, 2025

Mykhailo Mudryk’s career at Chelsea remains in limbo as the Ukrainian winger continues serving a provisional suspension.

The £88.5 million signing last featured for the Blues in November 2024, scoring in a Conference League victory over Heidenheim before disappearing from matchday squads entirely.

The FA formally charged Mudryk in June following confirmation that his ‘B’ sample tested positive for meldonium, a prohibited performance-enhancing substance.

The charge carries potential sanctions ranging from several months to a maximum four-year ban, though significant uncertainty surrounds the case’s resolution timeline.

Mudryk has steadfastly maintained his innocence throughout the ordeal, insisting the positive test came as ‘complete shock’ and that he never knowingly consumed banned substances.

Ukrainian journalist Igor Burbas offered an intriguing explanation, suggesting Mudryk received a stem cell injection during national team duty to address discomfort that was limiting his performance.

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It would be a head turner.

Posts ByEmilio Galantini Dec 5, 2025

According to the report, these stem cells allegedly originated from a cow exposed to meldonium, inadvertently contaminating Mudryk’s sample.

Shakhtar Donetsk chief executive Sergei Palkin recently confirmed Mudryk passed a polygraph test and continues building his defence case, though formal results remain pending.

Palkin revealed substantial financial stakes beyond Mudryk’s career, with Shakhtar potentially forfeiting €30 million in performance-related bonuses if the winger cannot return to action.

Chelsea have provided Mudryk with an individualised fitness programme during his exile from the Cobham training ground, though his number ten shirt was reassigned to Cole Palmer this summer.

The club also signed Alejandro Garnacho and Jamie Gittens during his absence, significantly diminishing his prospects of a first-team role under Enzo Maresca, even if the 24-year-old is eventually cleared.

Luckily for Mudryk, the west Londoners apparently have a plan for that scenario.

Chelsea hatch Mykhaylo Mudryk plan in roadmap to rescue his career

According to reports from Spain, Chelsea have devised a ‘carefully considered’ strategy to ‘rescue’ Mudryk’s career following his prolonged doping suspension that has sidelined him for over a year.

The club apparently plan to loan him to sister club Strasbourg, their sister club in Ligue 1, once his ban concludes.

Rather than severing ties with their near-£100 million investment, Chelsea believe a spell in French football offers Mudryk the ideal environment to rebuild both physically and mentally.

The move would also provide fewer eyes compared to the Premier League’s intense spotlight, allowing Mudryk to rediscover his confidence through regular competitive action.

Stamford Bridge officials view the Strasbourg loan as mutually beneficial for all parties.

Mudryk gains essential playing time in a competitive league without overwhelming pressure, while Strasbourg acquire a player of significant talent, and Chelsea can monitor his development from a safe distance before determining his long-term future.

Contracted until 2031, BlueCo still have plenty of time to weigh up a decision on this, and hope that they can recover at least some of the eye-watering cash they spent on Mudryk in 2023.

تحدث لوتار ماتيوس، لاعب منتخب ألمانيا السابق عن رفض جوهرة بوروسيا دورتموند تجديد عقده مع الفريق خلال الفترة المقبلة بسبب رغبته في الرحيل إلى أحد أندية أوروبا الكبيرة.

وكانت تقارير سابقة ذكرت أن نادي ليفربول يرغب في التعاقد مع المدافع الشاب نيكو شلوتربيك، لتدعيم خط الدفاع خلال فترة الانتقالات المقبلة.

وينتهي عقد اللاعب مع بوروسيا دورتموند في صيف 2026 المقبل، وحتى الآن وفقًا لعدة تقارير صحفية ألمانية، فإن اللاعب يرفض التجديد مع دورتموند.

لكن ليس ليفربول وحده هو من يريد التعاقد مع شلوتربيك، بل إن مدافع بوروسيا دورتموند أثار إعجاب هانز فليك، المدير الفني لـ برشلونة أيضًا.

وفقًا لتقارير سابقة لصحيفة “سبورت”، فإن المدرب الألماني يرغب في ضم شلوتربيك لصفوف البلوجرانا وقد يكون البديل المثالي للمدافع السابق إينيجو مارتينيز والذي انتقل لصفوف النصر السعودي.

اقرأ أيضًا | بوروسيا دورتموند يحدد موقفه من بيع شلوتربيك إلى برشلونة أو بايرن ميونخ

كما أن بطبيعة الحال نادي بايرن ميونخ في الصورة دائمًا مع أي موهبة لغريمه بوروسيا دورتموند وبشكل عام في الدوري الألماني يكون أول الراغبين في الاهتمام بالتعاقد معها، وقد أشارت تقارير ألمانية إلى أن البافاري يضع شلوتربيك في الصورة.

في ضوء ذلك، لا يعتقد لوثار ماتيوس، أن رحيل نيكو شلوتربيك عن بوروسيا دورتموند أمر ضروري. وقال عبر شبكة سكاي سبورت: “لو كنت مكانه، لفكرت كثيرًا في ترك النادي أو البقاء”.

وأكمل: “يحتل دورتموند حاليًا المركز الثالث في الدوري ولديه موقع واعد في دوري أبطال أوروبا وكأس ألمانيا، بالتأكيد يمكنه الحصول على راتب أعلى في نادٍ آخر لكن بوروسيا لديه مشروع رائع وقد حقق شلوتربيك الكثير هنا وهو ذو قيمة فنية عالية”.

It might not have been vintage Bruno Fernandes this season, yet, even so, the Manchester United skipper is still the heartbeat of Ruben Amorim’s side, as was evident again on Monday night.

Up against an undoubtedly poor Wolverhampton Wanderers side, the 31-year-old was arguably the deciding factor, netting twice himself, while providing a delicious assist for Mason Mount to convert for United’s third.

Two missed penalties earlier in the campaign may have highlighted a drop in standards, although Fernandes still ranks third in the Premier League for goals and assists in 2025/26, while leading the way again for chances created (45).

The hope will be that the Portugal star can replicate last season’s heroics, which saw him overcome a slow start – having failed to score until Ruud van Nistelrooy’s interim appointment – before going on to rack up 38 goals and assists in all competitions.

Suitable for a midfield two or not, the ex-Sporting CP playmaker remains so influential to United’s fortunes – but what will happen if the club are left to make do without him?

Latest on Man Utd's search for a midfielder

It’s worth noting that Fernandes, speaking ahead of his 300th United appearance earlier this season, gave no suggestion that he was angling for a move away from Old Trafford, having openly discussed the decision to turn down a move to Saudi side Al Hilal over the summer.

Nor, however, did the £300k-per-week sensation completely shut down the topic of his long-term future, having relayed that he won’t discuss any potential plans until after the World Cup, with just 18 months left to run on his existing deal.

There have been suggestions that INEOS could even look to cash in on their talisman in order to help fund a midfield overhaul in 2026, with potential replacements seemingly being eyed up.

With that in mind, reports in Spain have claimed that the Red Devils are among the clubs pursuing a move for Real Madrid sensation, Arda Guler, with both Arsenal and Liverpool also in the frame.

The report suggests that United have already ‘accelerated initial contacts’ regarding a possible swoop, with the 20-year-old’s ‘versatility’ noted as a selling point for Amorim and co.

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Whether the LaLiga giants would be willing to sell the Turkish starlet remains to be seen, although prior reports indicate he could command a fee of around £88m.

Why Guler could be the perfect successor to Fernandes

It was a moment that epitomised the genius of Bruno Fernandes.

Picking the ball up just outside the Wolves box, the midfielder – who had been sent off at Molineux just over a year ago – had the vision and the quality to pick out Mount with a stunning dinked pass, building on the two inventive assists he produced at Selhurst Park late last month.

Even when not at his free-flowing best, the majestic talent can still unlock a defence in an instant, possessing the type of creative quality that few can match across the global game.

Finding a successor to such a figure thus appears almost impossible, if not improbable, yet Guler would be a more than worthy option, having been hailed as the “best CM/AM prospect in world football right now” by writer Neal Gardner.

That praise is not without merit, with Como’s Nico Paz the only attacking midfielder under the age of 21 to have registered more goals and assists (ten) than Guler in Europe’s top five leagues this season, as per Transfermarkt.

A key beneficiary of Xabi Alonso’s arrival at the Bernabeu, the rising star has already chalked up ten goals and assists in 22 games in all competitions this term, the same number of goal involvements that Fernandes has achieved back in Manchester.

Like Fernandes, the former Fenerbahce man has the flexibility to flourish in a more advanced role, or on the flanks, although he has blossomed in a slightly deeper role of late, averaging 2.3 key passes per game and creating eight ‘big chances’ in LaLiga this season, as per Sofascore.

For context, back at United, Fernandes has created seven ‘big chances’, albeit while averaging three key passes per game, with the pair both representing the creative hubs for their respective sides.

Interestingly, too, the Red Devils skipper is noted as the fifth most similar midfielder to Guler across Europe’s top five leagues, with regard to their stylistic and statistical likeness, as per FBref, further reinforcing why the Madrid man could fill that possible void in Amorim’s future side.

Non-penalty goals

0.18

0.20

Assists

0.31

0.41

Shot-creating actions

6.40

6.08

Pass completion

76.3%

85.4%

Progressive passes

9.67

7.91

Progressive carries

2.18

2.00

Successful take-ons

0.71

1.06

Touches in opposition box

2.65

2.94

Prog passes received

3.45

5.43

As indicated above, the pair – across the last 365 days – have enjoyed a particularly similar record with regard to assists, shot-creating actions, progressive passes and progressive carries per 90, all key attributes for a playmaking midfielder in their pomp.

In truth, United have rarely seen a side without Fernandes in it, such is his remarkable reliability and availability, although if the day comes where he opts to move on to pastures new, Guler must surely be at the top of the list with regard to replacements.

Prising him from the Spanish capital might not be easy, although with Alonso’s place at Los Blancos seemingly under threat, now could be the time to pounce.

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