The football schedules around the globe have entered the last international break of the year but club football never fails to stay in our mind. The players are on the international duty with their respective national teams and the club football will resume after the international break is over on 19 November 2024. 

However, the club football is in full swing this season and we have already witnessed some brilliant performances. Consistency and talent joined hands to give us some players who are already big names in world football but some of them are being hailed as breakout starts this season.

The youngsters are locking horns with the veterans in top European leagues and have registered great numbers of goals and assists. 

Sportzpoint presents the footballers who have registered the Most goal contributions so far in Europe's top 5 leagues this season.

10. Vinicus Junior | 12

• Club: Real Madrid
• Appearances: 12
• Goals: 8
• Assists: 4

9. Lamine Yamal | 12

• Club: FC Barcelona
• Appearances: 12
• Goals: 5
• Assists: 7

8. Cole Palmer | 12

• Club: Chelsea
• Appearances: 11
• Goals: 7
• Assists: 5

7. Bradley Barcola | 12

• Club: Paris Saint-Germain
• Appearances: 11
• Goals: 10
• Assists: 2

6. Raphinha | 13

• Club: FC Barcelona
• Appearances: 13
• Goals: 7
• Assists: 6

5. Mohamed Salah | 14

• Club: Liverpool
• Appearances: 11
• Goals: 8
• Assists: 6

4. Mateo Retegui | 14

• Club: Atalanta
• Appearances: 12
• Goals: 11
• Assists: 3

3. Robert Lewandowski | 16

• Club: FC Barcelona
• Appearances: 13
• Goals: 14
• Assists: 2

2. Harry Kane | 16

• Club: Bayern Munich
• Appearances: 10
• Goals: 11
• Assists: 5

1. Omar Marmoush | 18

• Club: Eintracht Frankfurt
• Appearances: 10
• Goals: 11
• Assists: 7

Read Also: Who is leading the 2024-25 European Golden Boot race?

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.

Read Also | Arsenal vs Manchester United: Match Preview, Head-to-Head Stats, Predictions, Possible Lineups

So, sit back and relax as we bring you all the build-up, updates, news and scores of the match. Enjoy the coverage.

Odisha FC's star striker and the third highest goal scorer of Indian Super League (ISL) history, Roy Krishna has been sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a grade 3 ACL injury he sustained during the game against Hyderabad FC last week.

The Fijian striker had already scored three goals this season in ISL for the Juggernauts and has been one of the most impressive players in the league's history since he joined in 2019. He joined Odisha FC in 2023 after spending fruitful years with Bengaluru FC, ATK and ATK Mohun Bagan before joining the 2023 Super League winners.

Read Also | ISL transfer news: All completed transfers before ISL 2024-25

"We will miss him on the pitch:" Lobera

Roy was one of the key clogs in Sergio Lobera's plan and without him, they would have a gigantic boot to fill in. However, Lobera feels Roy's absence will not hurt the team that much as the team is focused on the challenges ahead. 

"It's sad news for the team. Roy is not just an incredible player but also a fantastic human being. We’ll miss him on the pitch, but I’m sure he’ll continue to support us off it. He’s one of the best professionals I’ve worked with, and I wish him a speedy recovery," Lpbera stated via an official press release by Odisha FC. 

"It’s not easy when you have just two training sessions, primarily focused on recovery and compensation. But we don’t make excuses. This is football, and we need to adapt. It’s another challenge for us to overcome, and I believe we’re ready," he added.

Odisha FC are currently 3rd in the ISL standings with 15 points from 10 matches after returning to winning ways against an in-form Bengaluru FC with a 4-1 win at home. Next, they will face Mumbai City FC on 5th December at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneshwar. 

Read Also | I-League broadcast: Sony Sports Network will telecast the matches on TV from second round

Match Details:

Odisha FC vs Mumbai City FC
5th Dec | Thursday | 7.30 PM | Kalinga Stadium
Live on Sports18, JioCinema, Star Sports-3

Arsenal vs. Manchester United has been a feature of the Premier League schedule from the ferocious matches of the Arsène Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson era to current matchups involving up-and-coming talents. This rivalry is more than just a game; it's a display of pride, football history, and the ongoing struggle for dominance between two of the best teams in England.

Match Details

Match: Arsenal vs Manchester United

Date: 04/12/2024

Time: 1:30 am (IST)

Venue: Emirates Stadium, London, England.

Match Preview:

Struggles have marked Manchester United's season, but the arrival of new manager Ruben Amorim has sparked a remarkable turnaround. The team is yet to lose under his leadership, with many attributing this resurgence to the "new manager bounce" phenomenon, where players step up to prove their worth. However, there is a noticeable improvement in United's attacking play beyond this initial lift. Amorim's high-intensity pressing and reliance on hardworking full-backs have added a new dimension to their game. Critics argue that the teams he has faced so far are not the strongest, making Arsenal his first real test.

💬 "They are in a different moment."

Ruben looks ahead to Arsenal on Wednesday 👁️#MUFC || #PL

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 3, 2024

For Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, this fixture holds special significance. In 2020, he masterminded a historic victory at Old Trafford, breaking a 14-year winless streak on United's turf, courtesy of a Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang penalty. Despite Arsenal's progress under Arteta, Manchester United remains a formidable challenge.

This season, Arsenal has shown marked improvement, thanks to smart recruitment that has made the team more fluid in transitions and versatile in positional play. The ability to invert both flanks has added unpredictability to their build-up, making them a more cohesive and dangerous side.

Amorim faces a tactical dilemma heading into this match. Should he stick to his system, knowing Arsenal dismantled a Sporting Lisbon side built on his principles, or tweak his approach to counter Arteta's strengths? Balancing his philosophy with United's gradual adaptation to his style will be critical.

⏪ Last time out against Manchester United in the Premier League...

A winner from the birthday boy! 🎂 pic.twitter.com/TLJEbWW11S

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) December 4, 2024

On paper, Arsenal appears the favourite, barring any late injuries that have frequently disrupted their season. However, if Amorim can exploit counterattacking opportunities and disrupt Arsenal's rhythm by limiting their time on the ball, United could pose significant problems.

For football enthusiasts, this midweek clash promises to be a perfect way to unwind and enjoy two contrasting styles of play from two historic clubs.

Head-to-Head Stats:

In the last 5 matches Arsenal has gotten the better of Manchester United 3 times with the last being a 1-0 win at the Old Trafford earlier in April this year, while the latter have won the other 2 leaving no room for a draw. however, the sides will face each other 3 times this season with the first one happening today. Below is the head-to-head record since 1995.

Total matches: 70

Arsenal: 23

Manchester United: 31

Draws: 16

Team News

Arsenal

While Arsenal has shown resilience in recent weeks, key players remain on the sidelines. Takehiro Tomiyasu has been absent since October 5th, following a 3-1 victory over Southampton, and Ben White is still recovering after undergoing knee surgery.

Midfield stalwart Thomas Partey, one of Arsenal's most consistent performers this season, missed the recent game against West Ham due to a recurring muscle issue. Although he seemed to have overcome this problem earlier in the season, concerns remain about his long-term fitness. The club is optimistic, however, that his absence will not be prolonged.

Additionally, both Mikel Merino and Gabriel Magalhães have been managing fitness struggles. Gabriel, in particular, has been restricted to just 45 minutes in Arsenal's last two matches. The Brazilian defender first showed signs of discomfort during the Liverpool game, where he was substituted early in the second half.

On a brighter note, Kieran Tierney's return offers a welcome boost. After a summer transfer attempt failed, he has been reintegrated into the squad and is back to full fitness. His availability comes at a critical time, with fixtures piling up and Arsenal needing all hands on deck.

Manchester United

Amorim faces a selection headache with the suspension of English midfielders Kobbie Mainoo and Lisandro Martinez, both sidelined after picking up five yellow cards. These players have been instrumental in implementing the manager's playing philosophy since his arrival. Additionally, the availability of Leny Yoro, Johnny Evans, and Victor Lindelof remains uncertain, further complicating the situation.

Read Also | Ruben Amorin to Man United: What will happen to Erik's Ajax boys at United?

Key Players to Watch

Bukayo Saka

Throughout the 2024–2025 campaign, Bukayo Saka has consolidated his place among Arsenal's and England's top players with 10 assists and 5 goals in 12 matches. His on-field leadership, creativity, and consistency have all been combined to create truly outstanding performances.

Saka's offensive contribution continues to be an essential part of Arsenal's success. With numerous goals and assists, he has played a key role in breaking down defences, particularly in close games when his ability to float past opponents and produce accurate crosses or finishes has been crucial.

Another significant strength has been his adaptability; Saka has fit in well whether used on the right flank, in a more central position, or even sliding deeper to influence build-up play.

What sets this season apart is the increased maturity in his game. Saka has taken on greater responsibility, often stepping up in crucial moments, and with his ability to maintain composure under pressure, he will definitely pose a significant threat to the United Defence.

Read Also | The most shocking goal misses in Football history

Amad Diallo

Under Ruben Amorim, Diallo secured his position as a vital player by putting on strong performances weekly after being overlooked in prior seasons with his involvement coming only as a squad rotation player.

United's attacking dynamics have greatly benefited from Diallo's rise and creative ability. He has shown remarkable dribbling skills, quick feet, and an eye for goal while playing mainly as a winger. Defences have struggled to keep up with his cutting inside from wide areas and unleashing strong shots or threading clever passes.

He will be an effective tactical weapon heading into this game for United

Possible Lineups

Arsenal: David Raya (GK), Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori, Jorginho, Odegaard, Rice, Martinelli, Havertz, Saka

Manchester United: Andre Onana (GK), Dalot, De Ligt, Mazroui, Shaw, Ugarte, Casemiro, Fernandes, Rashford, Zirkzee, Diallo

Karnataka all-rounder Shreyas Gopal grabbed a stunning hat-trick against Baroda in the 2024 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy to enter a respectable list of legendary players. Playing for Karnataka, the leg-spinning all-rounder dismissed star Baroda cricketers such as Hardik Pandya, and Krunal Pandya for golden ducks. 

Gopal dismissed Shashwat Rawat who scored a scorching 63 off 37 balls to pick up the momentum for the Karnataka team. Following that, Gopal also dismissed star Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya on a golden duck. Hardik's brother Krunal Pandya, who is also the captain of Baroda, faced the same fate as he returned to the pavilion with a golden duck by his name. 

Triple Treat 👌👌👌

🔟.1⃣ - Shashwat Rawat
🔟.2⃣- Hardik Pandya
🔟.3⃣ - Krunal Pandya

Re-live Shreyas Gopal's brilliant hat-trick against Baroda in Indore 🎥 🔽

That catch on the hat-trick ball 🔥#SMAT | @IDFCFIRSTBank

Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/VizwmvftQI pic.twitter.com/RxSHIVyqy5

— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) December 3, 2024

Gopal's sensational hat-trick has undoubtedly excited CSK fans, who are eagerly counting down to see his impact in the upcoming IPL season. CSK secured his services for a base price of 30 lakhs in the recent Mega Auction for IPL 2025. 

However, the 31-year-old all-rounder has entered the globe of cricketing stars after registering his third career T20 hat-trick. He is now positioned third in the list of most hat-tricks in T20 cricket. 

Shreyas Gopal is in the form of his life after being picked by CSK.

2-30(4) vs Ukhand
1-26(4) vs Tri
1-23(4) vs Sau
5-13(4) vs Sik
1-14(4) vs TN
4-19(4) vs Bar (hattrick)

Leading wicket taker:
14 wkts at 8.9, Eco 5.2, SR 10.2

Outrageous numbers in a high scoring SMAT season! pic.twitter.com/YCtBk3uvUm

— Srini Mama (@SriniMaama16) December 3, 2024

Shreyas Gopal recorded his first T20 hat-trick in Karnataka's face-off against Haryana in the 2019 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy when he picked up the three wickets of Navdeep Saini, Jayant Yadav and Amit Mishra. His second came in the same year while playing for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, as he dismissed Virat Kohli, AB De Villiers, and Marcus Stoinis. After almost 5 years, now he has grabbed his third. 

Shreyas Gopal shines with a stunning hat-trick against Baroda, dismissing Shashwat Rawat, Krunal, and Hardik Pandya! 🔥🙌

Recently picked up by CSK for ₹30 lakhs at the IPL Auction 2025, he's ready to make an impact! 💛#ShreyasGopal #CSK #IPL2025 #Cricket #RashidKhan #cricket pic.twitter.com/sP0tiG5vrZ

— Sportz Point (@sportz_point) December 4, 2024

Most hat-tricks in T20 Cricket

New manager Vincent Kompany has also failed to overturn Bayern Munich's terrible series of results in the DFB Pokal in recent years. Bayern have been eliminated from the 2024-25 DFB Pokal Round of 16 last night, losing by 0-1 to defending champions Bayer Leverkusen. 

Manuel Neuer faced an early red card which gave Bayern a tough blow in this crucial knock-out game. Bayern played over 70 minutes with 10 men but could not break the deadlock as Nathan Tella's only goal secured the victory for the defending champions. 

Bayern Munich have now gone five seasons in the DFB Pokal without making the final ❌🏆 pic.twitter.com/G13I8D0AJR

— LiveScore (@livescore) December 3, 2024

Bayern is eliminated from the 2024-25 DFB Pokal 

Vincent Kompany had to field Bayern's starting eleven without the most important piece of his puzzle – Harry Kane who had already scored 20 goals in 19 games this season across all competitions. Kane suffered a hamstring injury blow and he is expected to return by the end of the year. 

However, the woes continued for Bayern, as goalkeeper Manuel Neuer charged at a running Jeremie Frimpong in the 17th minute of the game. He nearly got past Neuer as the Bayern keeper came far off the line but he took Frimpong down. The referee did not take time to send Neuer off, which is remarkably the very first red card of the legendary keeper's career. 

However, the game showcased a neck-to-neck fight but the reigning title holders emerged victorious at the end. Nathan Tella came on the pitch as a substitute in the 61st minute, and he scored an emphatic header in the 69th minute to draw the first blood. Bayern kept pushing and they came close to finding the equalizer but failed to produce any. 

Bayern Leverkusen progressed to the Quarter-Finals and they will fiercely continue their journey to defend the coveted title. 

Bayern Munich: DFB Pokal results in recent years

Bayern have faced worrying results in the DFB Pokal in recent years, with their last title coming in the 2019-20 season under manager Hansi Flick. Since Flick left Bayern, three managers have taken up the hot-seat of Bayern's head coach – Julian Nagelsmann, Thomas Tuchel, and now Vincent Kompany. But all of them failed to enter the semi-finals of DFB Pokal. 

The best result for the Bavaraians came in the 2022-23 season when they reached the Quarter-Finals under Thomas Tuchel, but faced a 1-2 defeat against SC Freiburg.

There have been two instances where Bayern faced some unbelievable defeats. Bundesliga 2 side Holstein Kiel knocked Bayern out of the tournament after beating them 6-5 on penalties in the second-round match-up of the 2020-21 DFB Pokal. In the 2023-24 season, Bayern faced a shock defeat in the second round of the 2023-24 DFB Pokal as FC Saarbrücken, a third-tier German league side knocked Bayern out by beating them 2-1.