In football transfer news, Chelsea want to send Kalidou Koulibaly and Romelu Lukaku to Inter in exchange for Andre Onana, while Newcastle United lead the race for James Maddison.
Chelsea get Andre Onana transfer boost as they look to offer Inter Milan two stars including Lukaku in swap deal
The Blues are eyeing Inter keeper Andre Onana and are now ready to make their move following the Italians' Champions League defeat against Manchester City on Saturday night.
Inter have already found a replacement in Guglielmo Vicario, from Serie A rivals Empoli.
But they are still demanding around £55million for Onana who kept Man City's formidable striker Erling Haaland at bay in the Champions League final in Istanbul.
He was beaten only by a surprise shot from midfielder Rodri which sealed victory for the Premier League champions.
Incoming Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino is a huge admirer of Onana and is eager to get a deal done.
News that Inter will now push to sign Vicario will be most welcome for the Argentine as he prepares to take over officially from July 1.
Lukaku played alongside Onana against City in what may have been his last game for Inter before the end of his loan from Chelsea.
The Belgian is due back for talks with Pochettino but would prefer to remain in Italy.
There have been talks about a possible swap deal with unwanted Chelsea defender Kalidou Koulibaly thrown in.
Football transfer news: Newcastle lead Maddison race over Spurs
James Maddison got relegated with Leicester City this season (Image- Sky Sports)
Newcastle are currently leading Tottenham in the race to sign Leicester's James Maddison.
Both clubs are interested in signing the attacking midfielder, who has only a year left on his contract, this summer.
Newcastle's interest stems back to the January transfer window, when Leicester were unwilling to sell the 26-year-old.
Everton vs Liverpool: Match Preview, Head to Head Stats, Predictions and Possible Lineups
Check out the full match preview, previous records, head-to-head stats, predictions, injury updates, and possible lineups of the Everton vs Liverpool clash in the Premier League 2024-25 season.
This fixture holds so much history in the League fondly called the Merseyside derby it was one of the most fiercely contested games. As these two iconic clubs clash again, the stakes are as high as ever, with city pride and crucial points on the line. Evertonwill look to break Liverpool’s dominance in recent meetings, while the Reds aim to assert their superiority and keep their season's momentum alive.
Match Details
Match: Everton vs Liverpool
Date: 07/12/2024
Time: 6:00 pm (IST)
Venue: Goodison Park, Liverpool, England.
Match Preview
Everton will bid farewell to Goodison Park at the end of the season, a stadium that has been their home for decades and the venue for 244 Merseyside derbies. The 245th derby, set for tomorrow, will be the last held at Goodison before the club transitions to their new ground at Bramley-Moore Dock.
This historic occasion adds extra intensity, as Everton will be determined not to lose their final derby at the iconic ground to their fierce local rivals. Bragging rights and legacy will be on the line.
Everton manager Sean Dyche heads into the match with confidence following a dominant 4-0 win over Wolves midweek, a performance that highlighted their set-piece strength, with players like Dominic Calvert-Lewin and James Tarkowski posing significant aerial threats.
Their physicality in midfield will also be key to disrupting Liverpool’s flow, potentially creating a hostile environment that the Reds have struggled with in the past.
Van Dijk during the training session on matchday -1. Image | Liverpool FC
On the other hand, Liverpool manager Arne Slot will aim to rally his team after a frustrating draw against Newcastle, where they dropped two crucial points. Slot's side faces pressure from the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea closing in behind them in the standings.
Liverpool, however, have match-winners aplenty, with Mohamed Salah in exceptional form. His pace, sharp runs, and finishing ability will test Everton's defensive resolve. Liverpool also boasts creativity throughout the squad, capable of turning even the most random moments into goal-scoring opportunities.
While Liverpool may be favorites, Everton’s determination to make their last derby at Goodison unforgettable could set the stage for an unpredictable and thrilling encounter.
The two sides have played 64 times with Liverpool dominating the fixture. in the last 5 meetings, the visitors have won 3 times, while Everton has won once and the other has ended in a draw.
Matches played- 64
Liverpool win- 28
Everton win- 11
Draws- 25
Team News
Everton
Armando Broja after his Everton debut - Image | Everton
Armando Broja made his Everton debut late in Wednesday's victory and had a promising impact, creating two opportunities that Jack Harrison failed to convert.
Broja's return adds competition for Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who reclaimed his spot from Beto midweek and contributed to the two own goals scored by Craig Dawson.
Meanwhile, Youssef Chermiti is expected to return in a week or two to further strengthen Everton’s attacking lineup. In midfield, James Garner and Tim Iroegbunam are also working to regain fitness ahead of the demanding winter schedule.
Michael Keane is doubtful while Youssef Chermiti (foot), Tim Iroegbunam (foot) and James Garner (back) remain sidelined.
Liverpool's defensive pair, Ibrahima Konate, and Conor Bradley, remain unavailable, and their absence was evident on Wednesday, with Joe Gomez struggling at the back, Jarrell Quansah may be the preferred option to partner Virgil van Dijk in defense.
Goalkeeper Alisson Becker is nearing a return, although Slot has indicated that he won’t rush him back due to Caoimhin Kelleher’s strong form. However, following Kelleher's costly mistake on Wednesday, Alisson could return sooner than expected.
Alexis Mac Allister will miss the match due to a suspension after his booking at Newcastle, and it seems unlikely that Diogo Jota or Federico Chiesa will feature in such a high-intensity game.
Marc Guehi will receive no formal action by FA over his message on armband issue
Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi will not face any punishment by the FA for breaking Premier League regulations as he wrote religious messages on his rainbow armband, which conveys LGBTQ+ celebrations.
Crystal Palace captain and England international, Marc Guehi, has avoided disciplinary action from the English Football Association (FA), despite breaching the Premier League regulations. The defender wrote a religious message on his rainbow armband to celebrate LGBTQ+ during Crystal Palace's Premier League outing against Newcastle United on 30 November, which ended up in a 1-1 draw.
The series of events
Marc Guehi wrote religious messages on his captain's armband in Crystal Palace's dedicated 'Rainbow Laces' Premier League game against Newcastle United. Being a devoted Christian, he wrote "I love Jesus" on the armband for the game on 30 November 2024, which caught the eyes of the FA.
(Image Credit | Sky News)
Significantly, Guehi did not write the word 'love' on the rainbow armband but he used a love sign instead. However, Guehi was warned about violating regulations regarding on-field slogans. Despite this warning, the 24-year-old defender proceeded to write "Jesus 'hearts' you" on his rainbow armband during the very next match against Ipswich Town on 4 December 2024.
The regulation regarding slogans says:
Equipment must not have any political, religious or personal slogans. For any offence, the player and/or the team will be sanctioned by the competition organiser, the national association or by FIFA
The FA again warned Crystal Palace regarding the existing kit regulations. However, despite a second breach of the rule, they have decided against taking any measure.
Marc Guehi spoke to Sky Sports and explained his intentions behind the messages he wrote.
The message was pretty clear, to be honest. It was a message of love, of truth as well, and a message of inclusivity. So I think it speaks for itself,
Following the 1-0 victory against Ipswich on Tuesday, Palace manager Oliver Glasner commented regarding this issue in a post-match interview:
We respect every single player, especially Marc, who is our captain. He is a great guy, very humble and we shouldn't make it bigger than it is, he is very respectful to everyone in the club.
In football we are all against discrimination, it's a great campaign. We spoke about it, we speak often as he is my captain.
He is no child, he is an adult, he has his opinion and we accept and respect every opinion. The quote of this campaign is to be tolerant and Marc is very tolerant.
Recent rejections against LGBTQ+ celebrations from the Premier League players
The Premier League and FA partnered with Stonewall, an LGBTQ+ charity, to promote inclusivity and diversity in football. As part of their 'Rainbow Laces' campaign, all 20 Premier League clubs were provided with rainbow-colored captain armbands to wear during matches last weekend and this week. This initiative, which began in 2013, aims to raise awareness and support for the LGBTQ+ community within the sport.
However, there has been some recent displeasure the players have expressed due to their own opinions and beliefs. Ipswich Town's captain Sam Morsy was the only Premier League captain who did not wear the rainbow armband during the campaign in their recent PL outings against Nottingham Forest, and Crystal Palace. Ipswich stated that Morsy is a practicing Muslim and he did not wear the armband due to his religious beliefs. However, FA did not take any action as wearing the rainbow armband has not been mandatory.
Sam Morsy wore the regular captain's armband. (Image Credit | Football365)
On the other hand, Manchester United reportedly canceled plans to wear the special jackets supporting the LGBTQ+ community for their Premier League match against Everton on 1 December 2024; after one of their players refused to participate in the initiative. According to the Athletic, the player was Noussair Mazraoui who refused to wear the jackets due to his religious beliefs. United refused to confirm the identity of the player.
FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Draw: Groups, Format, and Schedule
Real Madrid were drawn against Al Hilal, CF Pachuca and FC Salzburg while Lionel Messi's Inter Miami was placed in the same group with FC Porto in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Draw on Thursday. Here are all the details.
Set to take place in the United States from June 15 to July 13, 2025, the restructured global club football competition will bring together 32 teams from across the world to vie for the title of world champions.
The draw, held on Thursday, December 5, 2024, in Miami, showcased an impressive lineup of continental and domestic champions from every corner of the globe.
Among the standout contenders are Spain's Real Madrid, the UEFA Champions League winners, Brazil's Botafogo, the CONMEBOL Copa Libertadores champions, and Egypt's Al Ahly, who are consecutive CAF Champions League winners.
New Format
New FIFA Club World Cup Trophy. Image | FIFA
Traditionally featuring six to eight teams, the FIFA Club World Cup will now adopt a new format, hosting the largest number of participants in its history. Teams earned qualification by winning their respective continental club tournaments, such as the UEFA Champions League, and based on the confederations' four-year rankings.
South America (CONMEBOL) includes six teams, whereas Europe (whose confederation is UEFA) has twelve, making up the largest representation of the 32 teams.
There are four teams from North America, Central America, and the Caribbean (CONCACAF), Africa (AFC), and Asia (AFC).
Lionel Messi's Inter Miami was given a spot, as the domestic champions of the host country, Oceania (OFC) got one spot as well. The top two from each of the 8 groups will advance to the knockout stages after a round-robin group stage.
The final will take place at the iconic MetLife Stadium in New York New Jersey on 13 July.
5 Foreign Stars Who Have Scored Most Goals in Premier League History
Egyptian superstar Mohamed Salah secured his spot among an elite group of top three non-English players who have achieved remarkable goal-scoring milestones in English top-flight football by netting his 170th goal. Sportz Point breaks down the details of this exclusive club.
The Premier League has traditionally served as a platform for global talent, with players from all over the world displaying their abilities in one of the most competitive football leagues. Few international players have achieved remarkable heights making a lasting impression with their goal-scoring skills.
1. Sergio Aguero-184 goals
Sergio Aguero has scored the most goals in Premier League history as a foreigner.
Many people consider Argentine forward Sergio Aguero among Premier League history's best strikers. Aguero, who played for Manchester City from 2011 to 2021, changed the course of history with his precision finishing and ability to score goals at pivotal times. He has the best goals-to-games ratio of any player with more than 150 Premier League goals, scoring an incredible 184 goals in 275 games.
Aguero's most memorable moment came in 2012 when he dramatically won Manchester City's first Premier League title with an injury-time goal against QPR. He became a legend for City and the league at large due to his reliability and ability to perform well in crucial games.
Thierry Henry won four Premier League Golden Boot awards, more than anyone in history. Image | Arsenal
Thierry Henry, a French maestro, is known for his grace and skill in front of goal. Over two stints with the North London club, the Arsenal star scored 175 goals in 258 Premier League games. Henry won the Premier League Golden Boot four times, more than any other player in Premier League history, and was renowned for his incredible speed, skill, and ability to score spectacular goals on his own.
He scored 30 league goals and guided Arsenal to the championship during the undefeated "Invincibles" season of 2003–04, which was his most productive performance. Henry established the standard for what it meant to be a complete forward, his legacy endures even after retiring from football.
Mo Salah previously held the record for most goals in a 38-game Premier League season. Image | OPTA
Since joining Liverpool in 2017, Mohamed Salah has become one of the Premier League's most prolific goal-scorers. With more than 150 goals to his name, the Egyptian forward has consolidated his status as one of the greatest of all time. Salah made an explosive start, scoring 32 goals in the 2017-18 season, setting the record for the most goals in a 38-game campaign before Erling Haaland broke it again with 36 goals.
Known for his blistering speed, sharp finishing, and relentless work ethic, Salah has been instrumental in Liverpool's recent successes, including their 2019-20 Premier League title. He may break more records as he continues to find the back of the net with remarkable consistency this season.
4. Robin Van Persie- 144 goals
Van Persie won the Premier League Golden Boot twice. Image | Goal
Robin Van Persie, who scored 144 goals in 280 Premier League games, is renowned for his exquisite finishing and outstanding technique. He won the Premier League Golden Boot twice (2011–12, 2012–13) he played for Manchester United from 2012–2015 and Arsenal from 2004–2012.
His best season was 2012–13 when he scored 26 goals and helped United win their 20th EPL title. Van Persie was one of the most feared strikers in the league because of his versatility, and ability to score from a variety of positions.
5. Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink- 127 goals
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink is one of the greatest strikers to play for Chelsea.
The Dutchman combined physicality and powerful shots to create a formidable presence in front of goal. Between 1997 and 2007, he made 288 Premier League appearances, scoring 127 goals while playing for Leeds United, Chelsea, Middlesbrough, and Charlton Athletic.
With two Golden Boot victories (1998–99 and 2000–01), he rose to fame for his long-range shots and clinical finishing. He is still regarded as one of the best strikers to play in a Chelsea jersey.
Arsenal vs Manchester United Premier League 2024-25 Highlights | Arsenal hand Ruben Amorim his first defeat as United coach with a 2-0 win
Get the highlights of the epic Premier League 2024-25 clash of Arsenal vs Manchester United as Arsenal handed Ruben Amorim his first defeat as Manchester United coach with a 2-0 win.
Hello and welcome to another Premier League LIVE coverage brought to you by Sportz Point. Tonight, we will be covering the epic encounter between Arsenal and Manchester United at the iconic Emirates Stadium in London.
What to expect?
Manchester United somehow have reignited themselves under their new charismatic coach Ruben Amorim while Arsenal looking to catch Liverpool at the top of the table to stay in the title race. As both teams have plenty to win and even more to lose, this Arsenal vs Manchester United match becomes more interesting for the fans and viewers.
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