Connect with us

Football

AZ Captain’s Dream Clash with Man United Crushed – Stuck with Tottenham Instead

Published

on

AZ Captain’s Dream Clash with Man United Crushed – Stuck with Tottenham Instead

AZ Alkmaar captain Jordy Clasie is buzzing about facing Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League round of 16, but he’s let slip that his heart was initially set on a showdown with Manchester United.

Last week’s draw paired Tottenham with the Dutch side, setting up a two-legged battle that kicks off in the Netherlands before wrapping up at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

For Ange Postecoglou’s crew, it’s a chance to grab a solid result on the road and push toward the quarterfinals, where either Ajax or Eintracht Frankfurt could be waiting.

Clasie’s Preference: Manchester United Over Spurs?

Post-draw, Clasie didn’t hide that he had another Premier League giant in mind. Speaking via Voetbal Primeur, he admitted, “Maybe I had a slight preference for that,” when asked about Manchester United.

Still, he’s not downplaying the thrill of taking on Spurs. “But both opponents are fantastic to play against in the last sixteen.

Tottenham has a fantastic stadium, with sixty thousand people,” he said. Reflecting on their earlier clash this season, he added, “We were certainly not without a chance at the time, but we were not at our best either.

There are opportunities against every club. Also, against these types of opponents, despite the fact that on paper they are of course a very big name.” It’s a nod to Tottenham’s stature though maybe not quite the matchup he’d dreamed of.

Spurs vs. AZ Alkmaar: A Reunion Packed with Storylines

This round of 16 clash is dripping with intrigue. It’s the second time these two will tangle in the Europa League this season, after Tottenham edged out a 1-0 win on matchday three of the group stage, thanks to a Richarlison penalty.

But the real spice comes with Troy Parrott’s return to North London. The former Spurs striker, now thriving at AZ Alkmaar, is in top form and itching to spoil his old club’s European dreams.

The first leg fires up on Thursday, March 6, 2025, and it’s shaping up to be a cracker whether Clasie gets his Manchester United wish or not!

Tottenham Join Arsenal and Chelsea in Chase for Wolves ‘Star’

Tottenham Hotspur are gearing up to bolster their attack this summer, setting their sights on Wolves’ Brazilian standout Matheus Cunha and they’re not alone.

Arsenal and Chelsea are also in the mix for the 25-year-old, who’s been lighting up the Premier League with 18 goal contributions across all competitions this season.

With a £62 million release clause tucked into his contract, it’s shaping up to be a blockbuster battle among the three London clubs to land him, according to Fichajes.

Spurs see Cunha as the perfect partner to pair with Son Heung-min up top. The versatile attacker can roam anywhere across the front three, bringing goals and flair to a Tottenham side hungry for more firepower.

He’s already proven he can hack it in England’s top flight with Wolves, and a move to a bigger stage like Spurs could be a dream step up for him especially with Wolves teetering as relegation favorites.

Cunha’s not likely itching to slug it out in the Championship next season, and Tottenham could offer him a shot at Premier League glory and silverware.

Meanwhile, Arsenal and Chelsea aren’t sitting idle. Both clubs are desperate to beef up their attacking depth after leaning too heavily on stars like Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Cole Palmer without enough backup to rotate.

Cunha’s knack for scoring and creating could be a game-changer for either squad, giving their managers more options to keep their lineups fresh.

Fichajes reports that all three clubs have already reached out to Cunha about a potential summer switch, signaling a fierce tug-of-war ahead.

That £62 million price tag isn’t pocket change, but Cunha’s form suggests he’s got the talent to make it worth every penny in the years ahead.

Where he’ll end up is anyone’s guess, but one thing’s clear: this Brazilian dynamo’s next move could shake up the Premier League.













Football

Will Kolo Muani Stay at Juventus or Move to the Premier League?

Published

on

Will Kolo Muani Stay at Juventus or Move to the Premier League?

The future of French forward Kolo Muani is one of the most intriguing storylines heading into the summer transfer window.

Currently on loan at Juventus from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Muani has struggled to find consistent form, sparking speculation about where he’ll play next season.

With Juventus, PSG, and Premier League clubs all weighing their options, the 25-year-old’s next move remains uncertain.

Juventus’ Dilemma: To Keep or Let Go?

Juventus are in a period of transition, with both managerial and squad uncertainties shaping their summer plans.

The club’s qualification for the Champions League could play a key role in their decision-making. If they secure a top-four finish, they may push to retain Muani, but his recent dip in form has raised doubts.

As Calciomercato reports, “The Frenchman hasn’t scored for a month, he has stopped and shows no signs of recovery.”

Despite this, Juventus’ sporting director sees Muani as a “top-level profile” and is reportedly keen to secure another loan deal.

However, PSG have different plans. The French giants are looking to sell Muani outright to maximize their financial return, rather than extending his stay in Turin.

PSG’s Stance: A Sale, Not a Loan

PSG’s position is clear they want to cash in on Muani and reinvest in their squad. The club’s summer plans include a major overhaul of their attack, and Muani’s sale could help fund new signings.

As Calciomercato notes, “The ambition of the French is to immediately sell the striker and not necessarily to Juve, to whom the player was kindly loaned with a very clear aim. That of re-evaluating him and putting him on display for next summer.”

Muani’s time at Juventus has been a mixed bag. While he’s enjoyed regular playing time, he hasn’t rediscovered the form that made him one of Europe’s most promising forwards.

If he is to stay in Turin, it will likely depend on Juventus securing Champions League football and presenting a strong long-term project.

Premier League Interest: Newcastle in the Mix

The Premier League could be a viable destination for Muani, with Newcastle United emerging as a potential suitor.

The Magpies’ potential sale of Alexander Isak could create an opening for Muani to fill. As the report highlights, “Kolo Muani has a lot of market in the Premier League, above all Newcastle who can open the waltz of the strikers, with the fate of Isak yet to be discovered.”

Muani’s pace and versatility make him an attractive option for English clubs, but his inconsistent form raises questions about whether he can command a starting role at a top Premier League side.

Newcastle fans might view him as an exciting addition, but his lack of goals could be a concern, especially if Isak departs.

The debate surrounding Muani centers on whether he’s worth a long-term investment. His speed and movement offer something unique, but his recent struggles in front of goal are a red flag.

For Juventus, pairing him with a proven finisher like Victor Osimhen could be the solution, but the club may also consider a complete overhaul of their attack.

For Newcastle, Muani’s physicality and ability to stretch defences could fit well into Eddie Howe’s system.

However, fans might prefer a more established striker if Isak leaves. Ultimately, Muani’s performances in the final months of the season could determine his next destination.

As the summer transfer window approaches, Kolo Muani’s future remains up in the air. Will he stay at Juventus, return to PSG, or make a move to the Premier League?

His next destination will depend on a combination of form, finances, and the ambitions of the clubs involved. One thing is certain Muani’s transfer saga will be one to watch.

Continue Reading

Football

Barcelona pushing for €85m-rated forward’s transfer as Deco lays the groundwork

Published

on

Barcelona pushing for €85m-rated forward’s transfer as Deco lays the groundwork

According to a report from SPORT, Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, has begun laying the groundwork for a possible move to sign Liverpool winger Luis Diaz.

The club is actively working on financial plans and calculations to determine how they can afford the transfer.

However, securing Diaz won’t be easy, as Barcelona must first generate significant funds before making an official approach.

Challenges Ahead
The estimated cost of signing the Colombian star is between €70-75 million, meaning Barcelona need to free up at least €30 million in their wage structure to make the deal viable.

To raise the necessary funds, the club is exploring various options, including player sales and percentage deals involving players not currently in the first-team setup.

Barcelona’s midfield is one area where they could consider a major sale if the right offer comes in. While the squad has plenty of midfield options, only Pedri is considered untouchable.

In defense, the club is being cautious about making changes, but the futures of Eric Garcia, Andreas Christensen, and Ronald Araujo remain uncertain. Araujo, in particular, would only be allowed to leave if he personally requests a transfer.

Diaz’s Interest in Barcelona
On Diaz’s side, the player is reportedly keen on joining Barcelona. After spending four seasons in England, he is excited about the possibility of playing for the Blaugrana.

Deco has already held informal talks with Diaz’s representatives to express Barcelona’s interest.

However, due to financial restrictions under La Liga’s fair play rules, the club cannot make any formal moves at this stage.

One potential advantage for Barcelona is Diaz’s contract situation. His current deal with Liverpool runs until 2027, but by 2026, the English club’s leverage in negotiations would diminish. If Liverpool don’t sell him next summer, they risk losing out on a significant transfer fee the following year.

That said, if Barcelona fail to show serious interest, Diaz might consider extending his stay at Anfield instead.

While Barcelona are keen on bringing Diaz to Camp Nou, financial hurdles and strategic planning will play a crucial role in determining whether the transfer materializes.

Continue Reading

Football

Pep Guardiola explains why he hauled off Man City star just 18 minutes after coming on

Published

on

Pep Guardiola explains why he hauled off Man City star just 18 minutes after coming on
Abdukodir Khusanov's own goal ensured the spoils were shared

Manchester City missed a golden opportunity to climb back into the Premier League’s top four after being held to a 2-2 draw against Brighton & Hove Albion at the Etihad Stadium.

However, the game took an unexpected turn when Bernardo Silva, who had only been on the pitch for 18 minutes, was substituted for Phil Foden a decision that left fans and pundits scratching their heads.

Guardiola’s Cryptic Response on Silva’s Early Exit

Silva, who came on shortly before the hour mark, showed no visible signs of injury when he was withdrawn.

When asked about the sudden change, Pep Guardiola offered little clarity in his post-match interview.

“I don’t know, I didn’t speak to the doctors,” Guardiola told Match of the Day when questioned about a potential injury. “Bernardo is so strong.”

With no conclusive explanation, speculation continues regarding whether the substitution was tactical, fitness-related, or due to a minor issue unnoticed by spectators.

City Let Crucial Points Slip

Going into the match, Manchester City knew a victory would push them back into the top four. They started well, with Erling Haaland converting a penalty to give them the lead.

However, Brighton hit back through Pervis Estupiñán, leveling the score. Omar Marmoush then restored City’s advantage, only for an unfortunate Abdukodir Khusanov own goal to secure a draw for the visitors.

Despite the result, Guardiola remained positive about his team’s performance:

“It was a good game. A tight game—I know how difficult this process is. The players gave everything. We take the point and keep going.”

He also praised his squad’s effort, particularly the younger players and defenders, but admitted City fell just short of securing the win.

Brighton’s Boss Disappointed Despite Strong Performance

Brighton, aiming to complete a league double over City after their 2-1 win at the Amex in November, were left frustrated by the draw. Manager Fabian Hürzeler believed his side deserved more:

“We gave away goals in a very cheap way, and we have to improve. The fact that we came back twice and had big opportunities to win is a positive sign. We showed our identity—that’s how we want to play.”

Despite acknowledging the team’s strong display, Hürzeler was dissatisfied with the final result:

“It is very clear to me that we should have left this pitch as winners. Sometimes football is like this.”

Chelsea Benefit as City Drop Points

The draw at the Etihad Stadium ensures that Chelsea will finish the weekend in fourth place. Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest remains in third after their 4-2 win over Ipswich, meaning Arsenal’s clash with Chelsea on Sunday won’t affect their position just yet.

As City continues to navigate a competitive season, questions remain about Guardiola’s Bernardo Silva decision, but for now, their focus will be on bouncing back in their next fixture.




Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2025 Sporty Elites. All Rights Reserved.