TIG Post

Tag: Premier League

  • Five Premier League clubs to compete in 2025-26 Champions League

    Five Premier League clubs to compete in 2025-26 Champions League

    Premier League is expecrted to have five teams in the Champions League next season after it secured one of the extra places for performance by clubs across the three European competitions.

    Two leagues will be rewarded with a European Performance Spot (EPS), which was introduced in last season as part of a revamp to expand the Champions League to a 36-team competition.

    England has been well out in front at the top of the table for most of the season, and the extra place was all but confirmed by a catalogue of poor results for Italian clubs in the knockout playoff round and the round of 16.

    That left the Premier League needing only one win, or two draws, from the remaining fixtures and that was sealed on Tuesday when Arsenal won 3-0 at home to Real Madrid.

    Fifth place in England will now qualify for the Champions League. Chelsea (53 points) sit fourth with Newcastle United (53) in fifth (and the Magpies have a crucial game in hand.) But a host of clubs are battling for the top five, including Manchester City (52), Aston Villa (51), Fulham (48) and Brighton & Hove Albion (47).

    If Aston Villa win the Champions League (they play Paris Saint-Germain in the quarterfinals) and finish fifth then six teams qualify for the Champions League — the top four, the Champions League titleholders and the EPS, which drops to sixth place.

    The maximum number of places in the Champions League could be seven: the top four, the EPS, plus Villa and Manchester United or Tottenham Hotspur as winners of the Champions League and Europa League.

    The Premier League could have 11 teams in Europe next season if Villa, Man United or Spurs and also Chelsea won the three titles and finished outside the domestic qualification places. Titleholders automatically qualify as additional places if they do not do so domestically.

    If Arsenal or Aston Villa win the Champions League and finish inside the top four, there is no transfer to the Premier League; only the top five will qualify.

    Spain — which, like the Premier League, still has five clubs active European competitions — is set to take the second spot but could yet be caught by Italy.

    Last season, Italy and Germany were the beneficiaries, with Bologna and Borussia Dortmund finishing in fifth place in their respective league tables.

  • Antoine Semenyo names Michael Essien as the best Ghanaian player in Premier League history

    Antoine Semenyo names Michael Essien as the best Ghanaian player in Premier League history

    Ghanaian striker Antoine Semenyo has named Michael Essien as the greatest Ghanaian footballer to have played in the English Premier League.

    Over the years, several Ghanaian stars, including John Paintsil, John Mensah, Sulley Muntari, Tony Yeboah, the late Christian Atsu, and Essien himself, have featured in England’s top flight.

    During a rapid-fire Q&A session with BR Football, Semenyo—who has been in fine form for AFC Bournemouth this season—didn’t hesitate to pick Essien, a two-time Premier League winner, as the standout Ghanaian to grace the league.

    Essien enjoyed a stellar nine-year spell at Chelsea, cementing his status as a club legend and winning multiple trophies, including the UEFA Champions League, Premier League, and FA Cup.

    Meanwhile, Semenyo recently made his 50th appearance for Bournemouth, becoming only the second Ghanaian to achieve consecutive double figures in goals and assists in English football.

    The forward has been pivotal for the Cherries this season, netting seven Premier League goals and adding two more in the FA Cup, helping his side reach the tournament’s quarterfinals.

    Semenyo will be looking to maintain his impressive form when Bournemouth takes on Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday.

  • FFP Case: Ex-Man City captain explains 3 reasons why relegation would be a huge surprise

    FFP Case: Ex-Man City captain explains 3 reasons why relegation would be a huge surprise

    A former Manchester City captain has weighed in on the club’s ongoing Financial Fair Play (FFP) case, stating that relegation from the Premier League would be a “major surprise.”

    Speculation continues to swirl around the reigning champions as they await a verdict on their long-running FFP saga. With at least 115 charges leveled against them, various potential punishments—including demotion from the top flight—have been widely discussed.


    Ex-City skipper Richard Dunne is not convinced that Pep Guardiola will be working in the EFL next season, telling GOAL when speaking in association with William Hill Vegas: “I wouldn’t have thought so. Setting aside whether they are found guilty or not – if they were to be found guilty, the damage it would do to the Premier League, in terms of demoting Man City, would be too much. It all comes down to what the result is.

    “But City are a superpower in the Premier League and a team that the Premier League needs and a team that the opposition wants in the league and to play against. It would be a major surprise if something like that was to happen to them.”

    Pressed further on whether a big points deduction could be in the pipeline for City, which would place their Champions League qualification hopes under serious threat, Dunne added: “Yeah. What has gone previously has been fines and points deductions – for the clubs that have been found guilty of any breaches. It’s been that level of sanction.

    “I would imagine that if man city it will be something along the lines of a fine or whatever. I don’t think it’s going to be a demotion. Maybe a transfer ban or something like that. It’s all speculation because the whole process has been too long and very secretive. Nobody really knows what anybody else is thinking.”

  • I will thank you if Liverpool fail to win title – Words of Slot to ref that landed him a ban

    I will thank you if Liverpool fail to win title – Words of Slot to ref that landed him a ban

    Liverpool manager Arne Slot told referee Michael Oliver that he would hold him responsible if Liverpool failed to win the Premier League this season.

    The Dutch coach received a red card after confronting Oliver and one of his assistant referees on the pitch following Liverpool’s 2-2 draw with Everton in the Merseyside derby last month.

    As a result, Slot was handed a two-match ban and fined £70,000 by an independent Football Association (FA) commission. He accepted the charge of misconduct, which included using insulting and abusive language towards the match officials.

    Oliver alleged Slot, while shaking the official’s hand, said: “If we don’t win the league, I’ll [expletive] blame you.”

    Slot disputed the alleged language used, claiming he instead said “if we don’t win the league, I will have you to thank for that”.

    But the commission decided it was “more likely than not that Arne Slot used the language alleged by the referee and the FA”.

    The FA argued the discrepancy didn’t make a material difference to the sanction because the words used still constituted Slot acting in an improper manner.

    Slot accepted that, and did not dispute stating “[expletive] disgrace” to the assistant referee as part of his angry outburst.

    The FA also alleged the Reds boss said Oliver “[expletive] give them everything”, and hoped the referee “was proud of that performance”.

    Slot admitted that his actions were unacceptable, saying he let his frustrations take over because he believed some decisions in the game were unfair to his team.

    The FA commission noted that he had since offered a sincere apology, both privately and publicly.

    Due to mitigating factors—including his apology, early admission of the charge, and clean disciplinary record—his fine was reduced from £100,000 to £70,000.

    Speaking before Liverpool’s Champions League last-16 first-leg match against Paris St-Germain on Wednesday, Slot said: “The moment it happened, I was quite emotional [about] everything that happened in the game.

    “I chose to go on the pitch instead of staying calm and staying inside to talk to Michael [Oliver]. I don’t have these emotions now so I should set a better example.”

    Slot’s assistant coach Sipke Hulshoff was also given a two-match touchline ban and fined £7,000 after the FA alleged he approached Oliver in an “extremely aggressive manner”, and said he was a “[expletive] disgrace”.

    Liverpool and Everton were both charged for failing to control their players, who behaved in an improper and provocative manner.

    The late drama at Goodison Park started when James Tarkowski scored a 98th-minute equaliser for Everton, which was awarded after a VAR check.

    Liverpool strongly believed the goal should have been disallowed, arguing that Everton striker Beto had fouled Ibrahima Konate in the build-up.

    After the final whistle, Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucoure celebrated in front of Liverpool fans, leading to a confrontation with Liverpool’s Curtis Jones. Both players received second yellow cards and were sent off.

    Liverpool manager Arne Slot and his assistant Sipke Hulshoff were also shown red cards after confronting referee Michael Oliver on the pitch.

    Slot will complete his touchline ban before returning to the dugout after the international break when Liverpool faces Newcastle in the Carabao Cup final on 16 March.

    Currently 13 points clear at the top of the Premier League, Liverpool will next play Everton at Anfield on 2 April.

  • Nsoatreman FC charged with misconduct by the GFA

    Nsoatreman FC charged with misconduct by the GFA

    Nsoatreman FC has been charged with misconduct by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) after their Premier League game against Medeama on January 8, 2025.

    The FA Cup holders face the charge due to several incidents that occurred at the Nana Konamansah Park.

    “Nsoatreman FC have been charged with a breach of Section 16 of the GFA Disciplinary Code, 2019, and Article 42 (6) of the Ghana Premier League Regulations, 2019, following their Ghana Premier League game against Medeama SC,” a Ghana FA charge read.

    “It is alleged that they failed to ensure the safety of Medeama SC players, and their supporters behaved inappropriately.

    “It is further alleged that the club prevented the GFA-accredited cameraman of Medeama SC from filming the said match. Nsoatreman FC have since responded to the charges.”

    Nsoatreman drew 1-1 with Medeama in the outstanding Premier League game played two weeks ago.

  • “We are the worst team, maybe, in the history of Man Utd” – Ruben Amorim

    “We are the worst team, maybe, in the history of Man Utd” – Ruben Amorim

    Ruben Amorim has admitted that his Manchester United team could be the worst in the club’s history after their 3-1 loss to Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday.

    United struggled throughout the match and couldn’t manage a single shot on target from open play as Brighton controlled the game at Old Trafford.

    This defeat marks Amorim’s fourth home loss in the Premier League since he replaced Erik ten Hag, who was dismissed at the end of October.

    “We are getting a new coach who is losing more than the last coach,” Amorim said. “I have full knowledge of that. I am not going to change, no matter what.

    “I know we can succeed but we need to survive this moment. I am not naive. We need to survive now. We are the worst team, maybe, in the history of Manchester United.

    “I know you want headlines but I am saying that because we have to acknowledge that and to change that. Here you go: your headlines.”

    After securing good results against Liverpool and Arsenal, Amorim stated that the matches against Southampton and Brighton would reveal more about his players.

    Although United managed a 3-1 victory over Southampton, the league’s bottom team, they faced a tough challenge and narrowly avoided a setback. However, they were thoroughly outplayed in their defeat to Brighton.

    Since taking charge, Amorim has lost seven out of 15 matches. United currently sit in 13th place on the table, just five spots and 10 points above the relegation zone.

    “Everybody here is underperforming, no matter what the circumstances, we are underperforming and have to accept that,” Amorim said.

    “It’s unacceptable to lose so many games. For any Premier League club, imagine Manchester United. So it’s a really hard moment but we have to continue, we have to continue, there is no other way. We need to suffer and continue.”

  • I have it all here ;whatever a manager could wish for – Man City’s Pep after signing 2 year contract extension

    I have it all here ;whatever a manager could wish for – Man City’s Pep after signing 2 year contract extension

    Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has extended his stay at the club by signing a new two-year deal, keeping him in charge until 2027.

    The 53-year-old Spaniard, who took the helm in 2016, has led City to an impressive 18 trophies, including six Premier League triumphs.

    Guardiola’s previous contract was set to end after the ongoing season, but this renewal solidifies his future at the club. Reflecting on the extension, he expressed gratitude, stating he has “everything a manager could dream of” at City.

    “Manchester City means so much to me,” Guardiola told the club’s website.

    “This is my ninth season here. We have experienced so many amazing times together. I have a really special feeling for this football club.

    “I have said this many times before, but I have everything a manager could ever wish for, and I appreciate that so much.

    “Hopefully now we can add more trophies to the ones we have already won. That will be my focus.”

    It was reported that Guardiola had agreed a new contract on Wednesday and the club confirmed the news a day later.

    ‘Hunger for success remains insatiable’


    During his time in Manchester, Guardiola has helped City become just the second English men’s team to win the Treble – the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League in the same season.

    They have also become the first men’s team to win four successive English top-flight titles and to achieve 100 Premier League points in a single campaign.

    “Like every City fan, I am delighted that Pep’s journey with Manchester City will continue, allowing his dedication, passion and innovative thinking to continue to shape the landscape of the game,” City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak added.

    “His hunger for improvement and success remains insatiable and the direct beneficiaries of that will continue to be our players and coaching staff, the culture of our club, and the English game at large.”

    Manchester City currently sit second in the Premier League, trailing leaders Liverpool by five points, while grappling with an unprecedented run of four consecutive defeats in all competitions.

    For Guardiola, this marks the first time in his managerial career—excluding penalty shootouts—that he has faced such a series of losses.

    The announcement of Guardiola’s contract extension comes amid ongoing scrutiny over a Premier League investigation into 115 alleged breaches of financial regulations by the club. While City have denied the allegations, the case’s outcome could result in significant repercussions if wrongdoing is confirmed.

    Despite the controversy, Guardiola has remained steadfast in his support for City, urging critics to hold off judgment until the investigation is concluded.

    With Jurgen Klopp’s departure from Liverpool last summer, Guardiola now stands as the Premier League’s longest-tenured manager.

  • Pep says Man City wouldn’t waste energy on Carabao Cup

    Pep says Man City wouldn’t waste energy on Carabao Cup

    Pep Guardiola has made it clear that Manchester City will prioritize the Premier League and Champions League over the Carabao Cup this season, choosing not to expend unnecessary energy on the domestic cup competition.

    Despite securing a 2-1 victory over Championship side Watford in the third round on Tuesday, Guardiola revealed plans to use his reserve players in future Carabao Cup matches, citing a congested schedule.

    “In the next round, I can tell you now, we’ll play the second team. We’re not going to waste our energy on this competition,” he confirmed.

    While Guardiola had taken the Carabao Cup seriously in previous years, winning it four consecutive times between 2018 and 2021, this season he’s shifting focus.

    For the match against Watford, played just 48 hours after a 2-2 draw with Arsenal, he made nine changes to the lineup, giving young prospects such as 16-year-old Kaden Braithwaite and 19-year-old Nico O’Reilly their competitive debuts.

    “The schedule is the schedule; we cannot handle it anyway,” Guardiola said. “Today for [James] McAtee, Matheus [Nunes], Jack [Grealish], Phil [Foden], who didn’t play [against Arsenal], the young lad, 16 years old, it’s perfect.

    ;”That’s why it’s a good competition, otherwise, we wouldn’t win four in a row.”

    Erling Haaland was given the night off against Watford, while key players like Éderson, Rúben Dias and Bernardo Silva were named on the bench.

    Guardiola insisted he still wants to win the Carabao Cup, but hinted that he will continue to leave out his first-team regulars as they chase a fifth successive Premier League title.

    “We play to go through,” he added. “We never throw a competition. Never. But we played 50 hours ago. I’m not going to [take] a risk with the Premier League and the Champions League in this competition.”

  • Reece James’ return to Chelsea delayed due to slow hamstring injury recovery

    Reece James’ return to Chelsea delayed due to slow hamstring injury recovery

    Reece James’ comeback to football has faced another delay as the Chelsea defender’s hamstring injury recovery is reportedly taking longer than anticipated.

    According to The Sun, the player’s rehabilitation has slowed, with the club’s medical team expressing concern that his hamstring hasn’t healed as quickly as initially hoped.

    However, sources within Stamford Bridge have stressed that there is no indication of a new injury or setback to the affected muscle.

    James sustained this latest injury during the summer, following an extended absence after undergoing hamstring surgery in December 2023.

    Reece James was restricted to only 10 Premier League appearances during the 2023-24 season, following a similarly disrupted campaign the previous year where he managed just 16 games.

    His current hamstring injury also ruled him out of England’s squad for the 2024 European Championship, where the team reached the final.

    Although James took part in Chelsea’s pre-season tour in the USA, he has yet to make an appearance in the Premier League this season.

    At 24, the fullback has endured a difficult career plagued by recurring hamstring issues, which have undoubtedly hindered him from reaching his full potential.

    While no specific timeline has been set for his return, Chelsea fans are hopeful they’ll see their star defender back in action before the year ends.

  • Man City risk a 100-point deduction in 115-charge FFP case – Financial expert

    Man City risk a 100-point deduction in 115-charge FFP case – Financial expert

    Manchester City could face a severe 100-point deduction, potentially leading to their relegation, as they prepare for the Financial Fair Play hearing set to commence on Monday.

    The reigning Premier League champions, who have secured the title in the last four seasons, are accused of breaching financial rules from 2009 over a nine-year span.

    If found guilty of financial misconduct, the club may be subjected to penalties ranging from hefty fines to possible expulsion from the Premier League. The case is expected to conclude by the end of the year.

    Football finance expert Kieran Maguire has told talkSPORT of the possible consequences for City if all of the charges brought against them hold up in a legal battle: “It can’t be a financial punishment; that would make everybody think the whole thing was a waste of time.

    If you take a look at the hearing at both Everton and Nottingham Forest, the commissions both said this is a minor breach of the rules.

    “Now if the allegations against Manchester City are proven, that surely has to be a major breach of the rules, effectively that the club misrepresented the money coming into the club.

    The club have also been accused of disguising payments to players and managers through third-parties, effectively being paid offshore via Abu Dhabi for services provided by members of staff.

    That is also completely against the rules, one would think, although it could be that it’s within the Premier League rules so we would have to be looking at a very significant points deduction.

    “If all 115 charges are proven, then you would imagine the points deduction would be somewhere in the region of 60-100 points on the basis that they would want the club to suffer enough to be heading out of the division.”

    Manchester City have consistently asserted their innocence and are determined to challenge the Financial Fair Play allegations to clear their name.

    Should the Premier League impose sanctions, any appeals could extend the case into 2025. If the club faces expulsion from the Premier League, it would mark their first time outside the top division since the 2001-02 season.

  • Ipswich legend Burley undergoing treatment for cancer

    Ipswich legend Burley undergoing treatment for cancer

    Ipswich Town icon and former Scotland boss, George Burley, is currently receiving treatment after being diagnosed with cancer, the Premier League club has confirmed.

    The 68-year-old, who led the Scottish national team from early 2008 until late 2009, discovered his illness following a period of feeling unwell earlier this year.

    Burley enjoyed a long playing career with Ipswich Town between 1973 and 1985, making 500 appearances for the club, and later returned as manager, guiding the team from 1994 to 2002.

    “It has been a difficult time, but I am feeling much brighter now,” Burley said. “In fact, I am able to get to matches at Portman Road, and I am enjoying watching the team playing back in the Premier League.

    “We are grateful to the club for the support they have shown me and my family, and I would ask that everyone be respectful of our privacy at this time.”

    Burley, who played as a defender, also competed for the likes of Motherwell, Ayr United, and Falkirk.

    As a manager, he coached clubs including Crystal Palace, Hearts and Southampton.

    He was the last manager to guide Ipswich to Premier League promotion before current boss Kieran McKenna did so last season.

    McKenna said: “This club has had some brilliant managers, and George is right up there as one of the very best.

    “It has been a pleasure to get to know George since I arrived at Ipswich. He is a positive and optimistic character, and I know he will also take that attitude into the battle he now faces. We are all right behind him.”

    Club chairman Mark Ashton added: “Our thoughts are with George, his wife Jill and their family.

    “It’s always great to see him here in the directors’ box on a matchday, and we will do everything we can to support one of our all-time greats, uniquely as both player and manager.“

  • VAR expert explains Declan Rice’s red card in Brighton-Arsenal clash

    VAR expert explains Declan Rice’s red card in Brighton-Arsenal clash

    A VAR expert has provided an explanation for the contentious red card issued to Declan Rice during Arsenal’s match against Brighton.

    Rice was dismissed after receiving two yellow cards. The first card was for a late challenge, which was clear-cut. The second yellow card, however, has been a subject of debate.

    Rice was penalized for kicking the ball away just before Joel Veltman took a free kick. Although Veltman retaliated by kicking Rice, he was not penalized, leading to Rice’s dismissal.

    Dale Johnson from ESPN has explained the VAR review process.

    The VAR assessed whether Veltman should have been red-carded for serious foul play but concluded that Veltman’s actions lacked the necessary force or brutality for a sending off.

    While Veltman’s actions could have warranted a yellow card, they did not meet the criteria for a red card.

    Rice’s second yellow card was for “kicking or carrying the ball away, or provoking a confrontation by deliberately touching the ball after the referee has stopped play,” which resulted in delaying the restart. Rice has acknowledged that, despite the controversy, he cannot dispute the decision.

    Arsenal fans noted that Joao Pedro had committed a similar offense—kicking the ball away after it had gone out of play—without receiving a booking.

    ESPN clarified that Pedro’s action did not delay the restart significantly, as an Arsenal player was nearby to quickly take a throw-in if needed.

    Following the international break, Arsenal will face Tottenham in the north London derby. Rice will serve his suspension and will not participate in the match.

  • Premier League introduces ‘referee’s call’ to resolve challenges associated with VAR

    Premier League introduces ‘referee’s call’ to resolve challenges associated with VAR

    The Premier League has introduced a six-point strategy aimed at enhancing VAR, which includes implementing a “referee’s call” feature to provide clearer explanations of decisions to both fans and players.

    While the VAR will still be looking to identify a “clear and obvious error,” the Premier League wants to put the emphasis on the referee, underpinning a high threshold, rather than use the judgement of the video assistant.

    A high threshold for intervention means that the “referee’s call” will stand unless readily available evidence can demonstrate there has been a clear mistake.

    The six-point plan aims to achieve:

    • Improve clarity of threshold for VAR intervention: “referee’s call”
    • Reduce delays to the game: introducing semi-automated offside
    • Improve the fan experience: pilot referees announcing decisions, increase messaging, lobby the IFAB for use of live VAR audio/video
    • Improve VAR training and consistency: emphasis on speed of process while preserving accuracy
    • Improve transparency: More proactive strategy, aligned with “referee’s call”
    • Education and communications plan: Key messaging across clubs and media

    The Premier League has acknowledged that despite correcting over 100 errors last season, significant work is still needed to address perceptions of VAR, acknowledging that it may never be flawless.

    To enhance transparency, a new account on X (formerly Twitter) will provide live updates and detailed explanations of VAR decisions, which will also be displayed in stadiums.

    Recent comments by Tony Scholes, the Premier League’s chief football officer, drew attention when he revealed that a survey indicated four out of five fans support the continuation of VAR.

    According to the survey, 77% of Premier League supporters and attendees are in favor of keeping VAR, though only 10% believe it is currently satisfactory.

    In response, the Premier League will focus on addressing the concerns of the 20% of fans who oppose VAR, using their feedback as a key factor in future adjustments.

    The Football Supporters’ Association hit out at the results of the survey, saying that “all of our work on VAR since its introduction into English football has shown it is deeply, deeply unpopular with match-going fans.

    Supporters’ concerns about VAR and its impact on the matchday experience have to be taken seriously — statements like this, that make the Premier League appear to be in denial, aren’t helpful.”

    The FSA’s own survey said that only a 26.8% of fans said they were absolutely or somewhat in favour of VAR, with 63.3% against it.

    Wolverhampton Wanderers attempted to get VAR scrapped in the Premier League last season, but lost the vote 19-1.

  • Premier League: Kamaldeen Sulemana to miss season opener against Newcastle to injury

    Premier League: Kamaldeen Sulemana to miss season opener against Newcastle to injury

    Black Stars winger, Kamaldeen Sulemana, is expected to miss the start of the 2024-2025 English Premier League season.

    The 22 year old is reported injured and would likely miss Southampton’s opening game of the season on Saturday, August 17 against Newcastle at the St. James’ Park.

    Sulemana picked up an undisclosed injury at the time of writing in Southampton’s 2-0 loss to Oxford United and Southampton manager Martin Russell spoke about Sulemana’s situation.

    “Kamaldeen will be out for three weeks” Russell stated after the loss with the news coming ahead of Southampton’s preseason game against Lazio on Wednesday, August 9.

    Southampton will face Spanish La Liga team Getafe on Saturday, August 10, following their match against Lazio, before kicking off their new Premier League season against Newcastle.

    The Saints are set to make their return to the Premier League after being relegated at the end of the 2022-2023 season.

    This latest update comes amid a series of injury issues for Sulemana, who has struggled with health problems during his time with both French Ligue 1 club Stade Rennes and Southampton.

    Additionally, Southampton is reportedly interested in acquiring Ghanaian-British winger Jesurun Rak-Sakyi from Crystal Palace.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jvgyowtIPok
  • Time to focus on league titles, not local cup – Former Man Utd legend to Ten Hag

    Time to focus on league titles, not local cup – Former Man Utd legend to Ten Hag

    Mikael Silvestre has asserted that Erik ten Hag needs to aim for more than just domestic cup victories after receiving a vote of confidence from the club’s owners.

    Despite leading Manchester United to an FA Cup win over Manchester City and achieving his second trophy with the club, having previously won the Carabao Cup, Ten Hag faces the challenge of overcoming United’s worst-ever Premier League finish.

    With INEOS, the club’s minority owners, showing continued support, expectations for the upcoming season are significantly higher.

    “The cup is not the club’s main objective, they have got to be challenging for the title like Man City and Arsenal have been doing over the last two seasons,” Silvestre said to TG Casino. “There is still a lot of room for improvement and hopefully he can get some more signings to improve the squad.”

    United considered a number of candidates to succeed Ten Hag and held discussions with Thomas Tuchel before eventually deciding to stick with the Dutchman, triggering the one-year extension in his contract.

    Silvestre believes that was the right decision, as he added: “I couldn’t identify another candidate for the job. I think Erik was given a tough task and he started brilliantly but last season was a disappointment.

    There were question marks on the team’s progress and performances. Certain players didn’t progress and there were big doubts about his future. Now it’s been confirmed and he’s going to have resources.”

    This summer, Erik ten Hag has secured two new additions for Manchester United: Leny Yoro from Lille for £52 million ($66 million) and Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna for £37 million ($43 million).

    The club is also eyeing Noussair Mazraoui from Bayern Munich.

    Mazraoui, a right-back from Morocco, is one of several players Ten Hag has pursued or signed due to their past connections at Ajax, a move that has faced some criticism.

    However, Silvestre believes this approach is not an issue.

    “It depends, it’s case-by-case and you can’t make it as a general view,” added the Frenchman. “There were some good ones and some that didn’t work out so far, like Antony. Lisandro Martinez on the other side is the one that when he doesn’t play, you feel it.

    Whether you are a manager or you are a sporting director, you tend to have a certain network and that’s just how it goes, but after it’s a matter of whether or not the player will perform for United.

    So I think now we have the new staff around the manager at the recruitment level and technical decision makers that should help the manager to make the right call.”

    Manchester United’s pre-season has been challenging, with three defeats in five friendlies and injuries to Leny Yoro and Rasmus Højlund.

    Despite these setbacks, they will welcome back their full squad for the Community Shield clash against Manchester City on Saturday. The team will then kick off their Premier League season with a home match against Fulham on August 16.

  • Football fans warned over Premier League ticket scams

    Football fans warned over Premier League ticket scams

    Lloyds Bank estimates that thousands of young people in the UK were duped into paying for fake Premier League football tickets last season.

    The bank reported a significant increase in ticketing fraud, with cases up by approximately a third compared to the previous year, and advised fans to remain vigilant.

    UK Finance, a banking industry group, noted that tickets for football matches sell out quickly, creating opportunities for scammers to exploit eager fans seeking deals.

    The group also called on social media platforms to take stronger measures against fraud and urged consumers to stay cautious.

    Lloyds Bank estimated that around 6,000 UK football fans fell victim to ticket scams last season, based on an analysis of its fraud data and the bank’s market share, which is about 20% of UK current accounts. This suggests that at least 1,200 of Lloyds’ own customers were scammed.

    Most victims were aged between 18 and 34, with the average loss per customer being £177, though some individuals lost over £1,000. Scammers primarily targeted fans of major teams, with Arsenal and Liverpool supporters being the most frequently victimized.

    The majority of scams, about 56%, originated on Facebook Marketplace, while 26% started on X (formerly known as Twitter).

    Earlier this year, Lloyds Bank also reported that Taylor Swift fans lost over £1 million to ticket scammers ahead of her UK tour.

    How did the scams work?

    Criminals create fake posts on social media or online marketplaces to advertise tickets that do not exist, often with pictures of real tickets to convince the buyer they’re genuine.

    The victim is then tricked into making a payment, usually by bank transfer.

    Once the money has been transferred, the fraudster just disappears, and the victim gets nothing in return.

    The problem with bank transfers is they are not designed for online transactions, so it is more difficult to get your money back once it has gone.

    The banks can pay victims back, but the transactions don’t have the same protections as buying something with a bank card, for example.

    What can fans do?

    Liz Ziegler, fraud prevention director at Lloyds Bank, said “missing out on the big match after falling victim to a ticket scam can be devastating”.

    She urged fans to purchase tickets only through official channels and to be wary of offers that seem unusually cheap.

    UK Finance cautioned fans to pause and consider carefully before spending any money. They emphasized that it’s perfectly acceptable to reject suspicious requests, as scammers often try to pressure or intimidate you into making quick decisions.

    Using a credit card for purchases between £100 and £30,000 provides extra protection.

    The Premier League also recommends that fans buy tickets directly from the clubs or their authorized partners.

    “Tech and social media companies need to step up and tackle the criminality which is taking place on their platforms and contribute to cost of reimbursing victims,” the spokesperson said.

    Facebook owner Meta and X were contacted for comment.

  • Man City slapped with a £2m fine for delaying games

    Man City slapped with a £2m fine for delaying games

    Manchester City have been fined over £2 million for delaying Premier League kick-offs and restarts 22 times over the last two seasons.

    The club admitted to breaching Premier League regulations by delaying either the kick-off or the second-half restart on multiple occasions without valid reasons.

    In the 2022-23 season, City delayed restarts eight times and were fined £390,000. The following season, there were 14 breaches, resulting in fines totaling £1.7 million. During this period, the start of the second half was delayed 11 times and the initial kick-off four times.

    Penalties ranged from warnings to a maximum fine of £200,000, which they incurred for the longest delay of two minutes and 46 seconds during their 3-1 win against West Ham on 19 May 2024, a match that clinched their fourth consecutive Premier League title.

    Additionally, their 1-0 home win over Newcastle on 19 August 2023 saw delays in both the kick-off and the second-half restart. Twelve of the total breaches occurred during home matches over the two seasons.

    The League said the club “has apologised for the accepted breaches and confirmed that it has reminded the players and football management teams of their responsibilities”.

    “Rules relating to kick-offs and re-starts help ensure the organisation of the competition is set at the highest possible professional standard and provides certainty to fans and participating clubs,” the league said.

    “It also ensures the broadcast of all 380 League matches around the world is kept to schedule.”

    Later this year, a Premier League disciplinary commission is set to hear 115 charges against Manchester City for allegedly breaching financial regulations, with some accusations dating back to 2009.

    Several of these charges pertain to payments made to City by sponsors associated with Abu Dhabi.

    The club has consistently denied the allegations, asserting that they have a “body of irrefutable evidence” to support their case.

  • Newcastle Utd co-owners Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi set to exit the club

    Newcastle Utd co-owners Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi set to exit the club

    Newcastle United co-owners Amanda Staveley and Mehrdad Ghodoussi are set to depart from the club.

    They originally secured a 10% stake during the Saudi Arabian-backed £305 million takeover in 2021.

    Over time, their share decreased to six percent as the Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund (PIF) and the Reuben family increased their holdings.

    According to BBC Radio Newcastle, Staveley and Ghodoussi have now sold their remaining stake and will be leaving the club.

    The couple has been pivotal in managing the club’s operations since the takeover, which granted PIF an 80% controlling interest in the Premier League team.

    During their tenure, Staveley and Ghodoussi appointed Eddie Howe as manager in November 2021, replacing Steve Bruce.

    They also facilitated the signing of key players like Bruno Guimaraes and Kieran Trippier during their first transfer window, helping the club avoid relegation.

  • Man City’s 115-charge FFP case could take longer as club battles against fines, relegation, others

    Man City’s 115-charge FFP case could take longer as club battles against fines, relegation, others

    Man City’s Financial Fair Play (FFP) case, which includes 115 charges, could extend for another two seasons, according to former Everton CEO Keith Wyness.

    The Premier League champions were accused of financial mismanagement in 2023 after a thorough investigation revealed issues dating back to 2009. Although the case is scheduled to be heard by the end of the year, a final verdict may not come anytime soon.

    Complicating matters, City have initiated their own legal action against the Premier League regarding Associated Party Transaction (APT) rules. With numerous complexities and neither side willing to concede, this ongoing saga seems poised to continue for the foreseeable future.

    Ex-Everton chief Wyness – who now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – shares that opinion and has told Football Insider of a complicated process: “There are two cases – the Man City legal challenge, and the 115 charges. With appeals, this could drag on for another two seasons.

    This is a very tricky situation to solve, and there has to be some way that this can be got through. People just don’t want it to drag on, they don’t need that. It affects the Premier League brand considerably.

    Sir Jim Ratcliffe has got to think about his points about the top six having more say. Here is one of the top six potentially damaging the whole Premier League more than anything else.

    If they want that responsibility, they’ve got to show responsibility and not gallivant around shouting about a European Super League. Right now, these clubs are completely absent from any leadership position.”

    There has been much speculation about the potential punishments Manchester City might face.

    Some suggest that the club could be relegated from the Premier League, while others talk of significant points deductions or hefty fines.

  • Man City not interested in making transfers in the upcoming season – Sources

    Man City not interested in making transfers in the upcoming season – Sources

    Man City are reportedly planning to retain their current squad for the upcoming season unless there are requests from players to leave, according to a source.

    Despite uncertainties surrounding the futures of key players such as Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, and Ederson, City’s management is maintaining flexibility regarding their summer transfer strategy.

    According to reports, unless a player expresses a desire to depart Etihad Stadium and a suitable offer meets the club’s valuation, Pep Guardiola may opt to proceed into the new campaign with the same roster as the previous season.

    Sources indicate that there have been no indications from De Bruyne, Silva, or Ederson about their intention to seek transfers away from City.

    City is reportedly focused on securing permanent deals for João Cancelo and Kalvin Phillips, both of whom had loan spells at Barcelona and West Ham United, respectively, last season.

    While City remains open to loan arrangements, their preference is for permanent transfers.

    Everton is reportedly keen on Phillips.

    Additionally, sources have revealed that City is eyeing Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães as a potential target if any midfielder, such as De Bruyne, Silva, or Matheus Nunes, requests to leave the club.

  • How to pronounce your favourite Premier League stars’ names

    How to pronounce your favourite Premier League stars’ names

    Football fans around the world often find themselves tongue-tied when trying to pronounce the names of their favourite Premier League stars.

    But fear not! With Euro 2024 on the horizon, the Premier League has come to the rescue with a handy video guide, ensuring you can cheer for your beloved players without a linguistic slip-up.

    Ever struggled with names like Szoboszlai, Mykhailo, Verbruggen, Guehi, or Kiwior? You’re not alone. These names might look like tongue twisters at first glance, but with a bit of guidance, you’ll be rolling them off your tongue like a pro.

    The Premier League has put together a fun and informative video where players with what some might term as “tricky” or “complicated” names demonstrate how their names are actually pronounced.

    It’s the perfect tool to avoid any potential embarrassment and to show off your new-found linguistic skills to your friends.

    Some of the Stars in the Guide:

    • Dominik Szoboszlai: This Hungarian midfielder’s name might look intimidating, but with the video guide, you’ll soon be saying it like a native.
    • Mykhailo Mudryk: The Ukrainian winger’s name can trip up even seasoned football commentators. Now, you’ll know exactly how to cheer for him.
    • Bart Verbruggen: This Dutch goalkeeper’s surname might seem a mouthful, but the guide breaks it down to make it easy.
    • Marc Guéhi: The Ivorian-English defender’s name has a unique flair, and the guide will ensure you get every accent right.
    • Jakub Kiwior: The Polish defender’s name might seem a bit tricky, but with the pronunciation guide, you’ll nail it every time.

    Why It Matters

    Getting players’ names right isn’t just about avoiding embarrassment. It’s a sign of respect and appreciation for the players’ heritage and identity. Plus, it enhances your overall football watching experience, making you feel more connected to the game and the players.

  • Premier League eye Baba Rahman after impressive season with PAOK

    Premier League eye Baba Rahman after impressive season with PAOK

    Ghanaian defender Baba Rahman has garnered attention from two English Premier League clubs following his impressive season with Greek giants PAOK.

    Reports from both Greece and local media in Ghana indicate that several English clubs have expressed interest in the former Chelsea left-back.

    Rahman Baba has experienced a standout season, marking his return to PAOK with resounding success.

    He has featured in 42 matches, accumulating an impressive 3,382 minutes of playtime, while also netting 6 goals and providing 4 assists.

    His remarkable performances on the pitch this season have sparked speculation about a potential transfer.

    Rahman is no stranger to English football, having previously represented Chelsea and Reading.

    According to Ghanaian reports, scouts from Brentford were in attendance at PAOK’s recent match against Dinamo Zagreb to closely monitor his performance.

    Brentford, having suffered the loss of Rico Henry to a knee injury, are actively scouring the transfer market for reinforcements.

    Additionally, newly-promoted Ipswich, eager to strengthen their squad for the Premier League campaign, have identified Rahman as a target.

    The report highlights that “Baba has rediscovered his best form, and his tenure at PAOK has been distinguished by remarkable performances in both the league and European competitions.“

  • Video compilation: The dribbles that made him the best dribbler in Premier League

    Video compilation: The dribbles that made him the best dribbler in Premier League

    West Ham United star Mohammed Kudus was named the best dribbler of the 2023/2024 Premier League season.

    Kudus led the league with an impressive 124 successful dribbles in 33 matches.

    Ranking second in the list of top dribblers was Jeremy Doku with 87 successful dribbles, followed by Bruno Guimarães with 72, Eberechi Eze with 69, and Luis Díaz with 67.

    Kudus’ dribbling prowess wasn’t limited to the Premier League; he also topped the European charts, completing 136 dribbles across all competitions.

    The former Ajax player had a stellar debut season in the Premier League, scoring 8 goals and providing 6 assists.

    Overall, the Ghanaian sensation tallied 18 goals and 7 assists in 48 matches across all competitions.

  • “Na na na na” – It’s a blue parade as Man City fans celebrate Premier League trophy

    “Na na na na” – It’s a blue parade as Man City fans celebrate Premier League trophy

    On Sunday, Manchester City celebrated their record fourth consecutive Premier League title under brightening skies, with fans flooding the streets to cheer their heroes once more.

    City showcased their dominance by concluding the title race with a decisive 3-1 victory over West Ham United on the final day of the season, amassing 91 points, two more than Arsenal.

    This achievement marks them as the first English club to secure four league titles in a row.

    Players and staff waved to the jubilant fans as confetti rained down and blue smoke flares lit up the route of the open-top bus parade, just hours after thousands participated in the Great Manchester Run.

    Despite the previous day’s FA Cup final loss to arch-rivals Manchester United, 2-1, the weather and the anti-climax could not dampen the celebration.

    Flags, bananas, and even a blow-up Jack Grealish dummy were held aloft in triumph.

    “We’re delighted with this season but we want to go back and try and win more,” said player of the year Phil Foden, who scored 19 league goals.

    “It’s the hunger inside me to win trophies. We have a great group. It’s been a special season.

    Obviously it’s something nobody’s done before, an incredible feeling, we couldn’t have done it without the staff or the fans,” he added.

    Portugal international Bernardo Silva also expressed City’s ambition to continue winning trophies and their disappointment over losing the FA Cup.

    “Obviously last night was frustrating but we have to forget that and celebrate four in a row. It’s been a very good season for us,” he said.

    After securing the treble last year, Pep Guardiola’s team added the Super Cup and Club World Cup to their collection this season, along with the Premier League title.

    The Spanish manager, who was honored as Premier League Manager of the Year, smiled and enjoyed the celebrations with the fans, even though he took responsibility for his team’s failure to achieve a second consecutive domestic double.

  • Southampton return to Premier League after victory against Leeds

    Southampton return to Premier League after victory against Leeds

    Southampton have secured an immediate return to the Premier League with a victory over Leeds in the Championship play-off final, earning them a £140m windfall.

    Following a disappointing campaign that ended their 11-year stay in the top flight, the Saints, who finished fourth in the Championship, joined Leicester and Ipswich in promotion.

    The decisive goal came from Adam Armstrong, who finished clinically after being set up by Will Smallbone. Despite Leeds’ efforts, including a late attempt by substitute Dan James that hit the crossbar, Russell Martin’s team held firm during nearly 12 minutes of added time.

    Leeds, who have now lost three consecutive finals at Wembley without scoring, will remain in the Championship. The play-off finals this year were notable for being won by the teams finishing lower in the league, with the higher-placed teams failing to score.

    Both sides entered the final following strong semi-final second-leg performances; Leeds defeated Norwich 4-0, while Southampton triumphed 3-1 over West Bromwich Albion. Armstrong’s goal, his 24th of the season, broke the deadlock after a tightly contested first quarter.

    Chances were limited thereafter, with Leeds’ Crysencio Summerville missing the target and Southampton’s Samuel Edozie failing to capitalize on a counterattack. James had two opportunities to equalize, but Alex McCarthy’s impressive save and the crossbar kept Southampton ahead.

    This promotion marks Russell Martin’s first managerial success, having taken over at Southampton last summer after stints with MK Dons and Swansea. Despite a rocky start, including the sale of captain James Ward-Prowse and a run of four straight defeats in September, Martin’s side turned their season around with a 25-game unbeaten run that began with a win over Leeds in late September.

    Although automatic promotion slipped away in April, Southampton’s play-off performance ensured their return to the Premier League, capping off a remarkable turnaround under Martin’s leadership.

  • Kudus’ goal celebration ranked as one of the season’s best in Premier League

    Kudus’ goal celebration ranked as one of the season’s best in Premier League

    2023/24 Premier League season has been a showcase of unique celebrations, with West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus’ signature sitting celebration hailed as one of the highlights.

    The Premier League’s official social media platform featured a collection of the season’s most memorable celebrations, starting with Christopher Nkunku’s inventive “party trick” following his goal in Chelsea’s 2-1 win over Brighton & Hove Albion.

    Nkunku’s celebration was marked by him inflating a blue balloon post-scoring at the Amex Stadium.

    Adding to the iconic moments was Cole Palmer’s “cold” gesture, which captured the fans’ imagination.

    Ghanaian midfielder Mohammed Kudus’ distinctive celebration, where he sits atop the stadium hoarding, was recognized as one of the top nine celebrations of the season, cementing its place in Premier League lore.

    Kudus, who was runner-up for West Ham’s Player of the Season, had a remarkable first season in England, netting seven goals and contributing six assists.

    He also led the league in successful dribbles for the season.

    In total, Kudus has tallied thirteen goals across all competitions for West Ham and earned the distinction of being named the second-best player in the Hammers’ season-end accolades.

  • Premier League clubs to vote on removing VAR

    Premier League clubs to vote on removing VAR

    Premier League clubs will vote on whether to scrap video assistant referees (VAR) from next season at their annual general meeting next month.

    Wolves have formally submitted a resolution to the Premier League which will trigger a vote when the 20 member clubs meet in Harrogate on 6 June.

    The club said VAR was introduced “in good faith” but has led to “numerous unintended negative consequences that are damaging the relationship between fans and football”.

    VAR was introduced in 2019 to help support on-field officials with key match decisions, but there have been a number of controversial incidents involving the technology this season.

    “The price we are paying for a small increase in accuracy is at odds with the spirit of our game,” read a Wolves statement.

    The Premier League said it “acknowledged the concerns” about VAR but “fully supports” the technology and will continue to work with referees’ body PGMOL to make improvements.

    Any alterations to the rules require a two-thirds majority, meaning at least 14 of the 20 clubs must vote in favor.

    Premier League clubs have already endorsed the implementation of semi-automated offside technology for the 2024-25 season.

  • FIFA aims to pave the way for La Liga, Premier League matches in the US

    FIFA aims to pave the way for La Liga, Premier League matches in the US

    FIFA is moving towards ending decades of football tradition by reviewing the rules that prevent domestic league games from being played in other countries.

    However, fans may object to their teams’ home matches potentially being moved thousands of miles away.

    The United States and Saudi Arabia are expected to be interested in hosting competitive games from top European leagues.

    FIFA recently agreed to withdraw from an ongoing court case in New York, filed by promoter Relevent, which challenged the current policy.

    In April, Spanish league president Javier Tebas expressed hope that La Liga would soon be able to play games overseas.


    “I don’t know when, but this time LaLiga will play official games abroad. I think it could be from the 2025–26 season,” Tebas told Expansión.

    “An official game in the United States would strengthen our position in the North American market, which is the second [biggest] for La Liga after Spain.

    “Other really competitive leagues are coming, so we can’t always do the same thing. They would jump ahead of us.”

    The new FIFA policy is likely to appeal to the growing number of international owners of European clubs, including the wave of U.S. investors in the English Premier League, Italy’s Serie A, and France’s Ligue 1, as well as state-backed teams like Abu Dhabi-owned Manchester City, Qatar-owned Paris Saint-Germain, and Saudi-owned Newcastle United.

    FIFA is forming a panel of 10-15 representatives from various football stakeholders to advise on amending the rules regarding “out-of-territory” games within the next few months.

    These rules were last updated in 2014.

    Previous attempts to hold European League games abroad, such as taking Barcelona to Miami in 2019, were blocked. U.S. promoters are seeking to offer fans more than just preseason exhibition games featuring the world’s best club teams.

    FIFA directed its working group, which is yet to be appointed, to consider fairness and give “advance notice to fans who may miss the opportunity to attend a home or away match in the home territory.”

    Other factors for the FIFA panel include “respect for the recognised structure of international football” and potential disruption to fans, teams and leagues in the country hosting “out-of-territory” games.

  • Top Premier League clubs eyeing Šeško

    Top Premier League clubs eyeing Šeško

    Chelsea and Arsenal are among several European clubs considering a move for RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Šeško, according to TEAMtalk.

    The 20-year-old has been identified by Chelsea as a potential alternative to Napoli star Victor Osimhen, with the Stamford Bridge hierarchy looking to reinforce their forward line in the upcoming transfer window.

    Arsenal are also reportedly in the race for Šeško, with a meeting planned soon to discuss terms with the Bundesliga club. Manager Mikel Arteta has Šeško on his shortlist, especially with both Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah potentially leaving the Emirates Stadium.

    Additionally, Arsenal are considering Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee as another option.

    Šeško, who scored in his sixth consecutive game during Saturday’s 1-1 Bundesliga draw with Werder Bremen, is under contract with RB Leipzig until the summer of 2028.

    However, a release clause in his contract allows him to be signed for €65 million.

  • Kudus by far the ‘best newcomer’ in Premier League – Man Utd legend Gary Neville

    Kudus by far the ‘best newcomer’ in Premier League – Man Utd legend Gary Neville

    As the football season reaches its climax, enthusiasts, analysts, and former players eagerly unveil their picks for the season’s end-of-year accolades and Kudus has earned some praise.

    This period serves as a platform for the football community to assess and applaud players’ performances, engaging in discussions that blend praise and critique.

    During the May 13, 2024, broadcast of Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football, esteemed hosts Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher shared their selections for the 2023–2024 Premier League season awards.

    These two football icons offered diverse perspectives on various categories, sparking debates among fans.

    A notable point of contention arose in the ‘Best Newcomer’ category. Gary Neville, renowned for his tenure at Manchester United, nominated Mohammed Kudus, the Ghanaian sensation who has shone brightly for West Ham United.

    Conversely, Jamie Carragher threw his support behind Bournemouth coach Andoni Iraola, recognising the Spaniard’s commendable achievements throughout the season.

    Neville commended Kudus for his remarkable impact during his debut season with the Hammers.

    In the Premier League alone, Kudus showcased his prowess by scoring seven goals and providing six assists for West Ham, leading the league in completed dribbles.

    His impressive contributions extended beyond the domestic stage, with a total of thirteen goals across all competitions, earning him recognition as the second-best player in West Ham’s end-of-season awards.

  • Iraola, Pep others in five-man shortlist for Premier League Manager of the Year award

    Iraola, Pep others in five-man shortlist for Premier League Manager of the Year award

    Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola and Aston Villa’s Unai Emery are among the five nominees for the award.

    Iraola earned his spot on the shortlist following a remarkable debut season with Bournemouth.

    Despite a challenging beginning, the coach successfully guided his team to the top half of the table, earning recognition alongside esteemed managers like Arteta, Guardiola, and Klopp.

    Emery, who has also had a successful campaign with Aston Villa, joins the quartet. Villa aims to secure a top-four finish and qualify for the next season’s Champions League.

    Bournemouth endured a winless streak in their initial nine matches of the season. However, Iraola’s squad secured a victory against Burnley on October 23rd, marking their first three-point haul.

    As the Premier League resumes this weekend, all five managers and their teams are set to return to action.

    Arteta and Klopp will persist in their title race, with City confronting Fulham and Arsenal visiting Manchester United.

    In the meantime, Liverpool will clash against Aston Villa on Monday, with Emery’s squad eyeing a potential top-four finish if results align favorably.

  • Independent board thrashes Forest point deduction appeal

    Independent board thrashes Forest point deduction appeal

    On Tuesday, the Premier League announced that Nottingham Forest’s appeal against a four-point deduction has been denied.

    The club received the deduction in March for breaching Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). Despite Forest’s appeal and expressed disappointment with the initial decision, an independent commission upheld the deduction, leaving the club in a precarious relegation battle.

    Currently standing at 29 points, they hold a slim three-point lead over 18th-placed Luton, with only two games left in the season. The Premier League confirmed the rejection of the appeal on two grounds in a statement.

    “The club argued that the independent commission committed an error in not treating the sale of a high-profile player shortly after the assessment period as a mitigating factor and that it committed a further error in electing not to suspend some or all of the points deduction it imposed,” the Premier League said.

    “Each of these grounds was rejected by the Appeal Board, which found the independent Commission was entitled to immediately impose the sanction it did. The four-point deduction will therefore remain in place.”

    Earlier this season, Everton successfully appealed against a points deduction, reducing it from 10 to six for breaching Premier League financial rules.

    According to Premier League regulations, clubs are restricted to a maximum loss of £105 million ($133.6 million) over three years. However, different rules apply to Forest due to their status in the second-tier championship until 2022.

    Championship clubs are allowed a maximum loss of £39m ($49.6 million) across three seasons or £13 million ($16.6 million) per season. Therefore, Forest’s permissible losses over the last three campaigns would total £61m ($77.7m).

    In January, Forest was charged with breaching these regulations for the period ending in the 2022–23 season.

  • Chelsea’s departing Silva already has 3 Premier League clubs eyeing him – Reports

    Chelsea’s departing Silva already has 3 Premier League clubs eyeing him – Reports

    Thiago Silva is set to bid farewell to Chelsea as his contract with the club comes to an end this season.

    Initially expected to return to his native Brazil with Fluminense, Silva now has options from three London-based teams, according to TNT Sports Brasil.

    Remaining in London holds appeal for Silva and his family, as he has expressed a strong emotional connection to Chelsea and intends to revisit the club in the future.

    Despite this attachment, it remains uncertain whether Silva is open to joining another Premier League side after his impactful four-year tenure at Stamford Bridge.

    During his time with Chelsea, Silva made 151 appearances and secured three trophies, including the prestigious 2020-21 Champions League title.

    However, an injury suffered against Aston Villa casts doubt on his availability for the team’s remaining Premier League fixtures against Tottenham, West Ham, Nottingham Forest, Brighton, and Bournemouth.

  • Premier League panel discovers only one VAR fault during Forest, Everton clash

    Premier League panel discovers only one VAR fault during Forest, Everton clash

    Independent Key Match Incidents Panel of the Premier League has determined that out of three incidents Nottingham Forest raised concerns about after their contentious 2-0 loss to Everton on April 21, only one was deemed a VAR error.

    Forest expressed dissatisfaction with several penalty decisions that went against them, raising doubts about the integrity of VAR referee Stuart Attwell, who supports Luton Town—a team then embroiled in a relegation battle with Forest and Everton.

    “Three extremely poor decisions — three penalties not given — which we simply cannot accept,” the club wrote on Twitter. “We warned the PGMOL that the VAR is a Luton fan before the game but they didn’t change him. Our patience has been tested multiple times. NFFC will now consider its options.”

    The Football Association (FA) is currently investigating a tweet by Forest, along with comments made by manager Nuno Espirito Santo and defender Neco Williams.

    Additionally, former Premier League referee Mark Clattenburg, now employed by Forest as a consultant, has been asked to clarify statements made in a newspaper article regarding officiating.

    However, according to the panel’s findings, which have been reviewed by ESPN, it was unanimously determined that a penalty claim for a foul by Ashley Young on Giovanni Reyna, as well as a subsequent handball by Young, were unfounded and should not have prompted VAR intervention.

    Nevertheless, the panel did unanimously agree that Young should have been penalized with a spot kick for bringing down Callum Hudson-Odoi inside the penalty area during the second half.

    The panel had a split 3-2 vote regarding referee Anthony Taylor’s decision not to award a handball against Young in the 44th minute, but unanimously voted 5-0 against a VAR intervention.

    It was deemed “a very subjective call,” with Young’s arm outstretched and blocking a cross from close proximity, though his arm position was deemed justifiable.

    However, in the case of the foul on Hudson-Odoi in the 55th minute, it was concluded that “Young inherited the risk by going to ground from the wrong side, and Hudson-Odoi beat him to the ball. It is a foul.”

    Comprising three former players and/or coaches, along with one representative each from the Premier League and PGMOL, the panel was established at the beginning of last season to provide an independent assessment of decision-making, aiming to offer an impartial evaluation of major match incidents without relying solely on the views of PGMOL or the clubs themselves.

  • EPL teams move closer to implementing spending cap

    EPL teams move closer to implementing spending cap

    Premier League clubs have taken a step towards implementing a spending cap, voting on Monday for the league to complete the economic and legal analysis needed for such a model.

    The model will be presented to clubs before a final vote at the league’s Annual General Meeting in June at the earliest. It would replace the existing profitability and sustainability rules (PSR) from 2025-26.

    The cap would limit how much clubs can spend in a bid to prevent the super-rich teams from dominating the league amid concerns over a growing gulf between the haves and have-nots.

    The cap, discussed at a Premier League shareholders’ meeting on Monday, would be based on how much money the lowest-earning club in the English top flight makes from television rights and could come into effect as early as the 2025-26.

  • Pochettino reveals Todd Boehly hasn’t spoken to him in ‘months’ club’s struggles

    Pochettino reveals Todd Boehly hasn’t spoken to him in ‘months’ club’s struggles

    Mauricio Pochettino acknowledges that he hasn’t had direct communication with Chelsea co-owner Todd Boehly for “months,” even amidst the club’s on-field challenges.

    Despite significant investments in the transfer market, Stamford Bridge has witnessed another inconsistent campaign, with the Blues facing the prospect of failing to qualify for European competitions once more.

    While Boehly has faced criticism from discontented fans, his involvement during periods of adversity has been notably minimal.

    Pochettino has revealed as much, with the Argentine – who has faced questions of his own future – telling reporters when asked about communication between the dressing room and boardroom: “To be honest, in the last few months, we didn’t cross messages, we communicated via the sporting director.

    Nothing’s changed, we are not changing. My views and my feelings are not changing, even if, now in the last few weeks, we are not crossing texts.”

    Chelsea were hammered 5-0 by London rivals Arsenal in their last outing, having come unstuck in the FA Cup semi-finals against Manchester City immediately prior to that, but Pochettino added on the mood inside his camp: “We talk about being together and having a big squad, trying to be together.

    It’s another thing we have to deal with. We need to be positive. The only way to move forward is to be positive, never give up, we are pushing them and trying to get the best in the period we have.”

    Currently occupying ninth place in the Premier League standings, Chelsea have six matches remaining in the season.

    Despite their current position, they retain the possibility of climbing into the top six, given that they have played fewer games than their counterparts. Their pursuit of this objective will resume with an upcoming fixture against Aston Villa, who are performing strongly in the league.

  • Man City mauls Brighton in 4-0 win in the race for the Premier League title

    Man City mauls Brighton in 4-0 win in the race for the Premier League title

    Manchester City secured another significant victory in their pursuit of a record-breaking fourth consecutive Premier League title.

    Phil Foden, enjoying his best scoring season yet, netted twice in a dominant 4-0 win over Brighton on Thursday.

    Foden’s brace in the first half was complemented by goals from Kevin De Bruyne and Julián Álvarez, as City stretched their unbeaten league run to 18 games.

    The win narrowed the gap to league leaders Arsenal to just one point.

    “I don’t know if it was statement, obviously every game is a lot of pressure but the only thing we can do is try to perform as well as we did today,” De Bruyne told Sky Sports.

    With five games remaining, Manchester City, holding one more than Arsenal, are displaying unwavering form as they approach the final stretch of the season.

    Their upcoming fixtures include trips to Nottingham Forest, Fulham, and Tottenham, along with home matches against Wolverhampton and West Ham.

    Securing victories in all five encounters would crown City as champions once more, a feat unprecedented in English soccer history.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MfJXn47Pva0

    Since their goalless draw with Arsenal on March 31, City have been on a rampant winning streak, triumphing in four consecutive league matches and netting an impressive 17 goals along the way.

    Despite the absence of injured Erling Haaland, who shares the league’s top scorer title with 20 goals, City maintained their momentum, allowing Phil Foden to potentially enter the race for the Golden Boot.

    Foden, with 16 league goals this campaign and 24 in 48 appearances across all competitions, delivered yet another clinical performance in front of England coach Gareth Southgate at Amex Stadium, a mere seven weeks before the commencement of the European Championship.

    City took the lead in the 17th minute courtesy of Kevin De Bruyne’s diving header from Kyle Walker’s right-wing cross. Foden doubled the advantage in the 26th minute, his free-kick shot deflecting off Brighton midfielder Pascal Gross and finding the back of the net.

    “It doesn’t happen too much, does it? I think the only way I could reach it was jumping to the ball, and it goes in like a little lob, but it’s obviously not something I’m really good at,” De Bruyne said after netting his first headed goal in the Premier League.

    Foden added a third in the 34th by curling home a low finish from just inside the area after Brighton lost possession attempting to play out from the back.

    Alvarez, starting up front in place of Haaland, slotted in for 4-0 in the 62nd after Walker was given space to roam down the right wing and cut inside before sliding in to challenge goalkeeper Jason Steele and get the ball across to the Argentina striker.

  • Police arrests two Premier League footballers in a reported case

    Police arrests two Premier League footballers in a reported case

    Two 19-year-old Premier League footballers have been arrested in connection with an alleged rape, according to police reports.

    The players, who have not been named, were interviewed by authorities and later released on bail.

    Both individuals are reported to be from the same club, which has chosen not to comment on the matter.

    A police spokesperson confirmed the arrests, stating, “Officers have arrested two men following a report of a rape.”

    One player was arrested on suspicion of assault and aiding and abetting a rape, while the other was arrested on suspicion of rape.

    The alleged incident, reported by The Sun newspaper, supposedly occurred on Friday.

    The club’s response to the situation, including any potential suspensions pending the outcome of the police investigation, remains undisclosed.

    The Premier League mandated sexual consent training for players and staff in 2022, following several high-profile incidents involving top-flight footballers.

    This recent development arises amid ongoing concerns about how cases involving professional athletes are handled and underscores the importance of thorough investigation and accountability.

  • Chelsea’s Palmer likely to miss Arsenal clash – Pochettino

    Chelsea’s Palmer likely to miss Arsenal clash – Pochettino

    Chelsea could be without top scorer Cole Palmer for Tuesday’s clash against Premier League leaders Arsenal, with the forward struggling to recover from illness, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Monday.

    “Today, no [he cannot play],” Pochettino told a news conference. “We will see tomorrow morning. Today, I don’t believe he can be involved.

    “Even if he is good tomorrow, maybe he is not in a condition to play. We hope he can recover from this situation and be involved with the team.”

    The 21-year-old player, who participated in Saturday’s 1-0 FA Cup semifinal loss to Manchester City, has been a standout performer amid a challenging debut season under Pochettino.

    Palmer has emerged as one of the top scorers in the Premier League this season, tallying 20 goals, a feat he shares with City’s Erling Haaland.

    His potential absence would pose a setback for Chelsea as they strive to maintain their aspirations of securing a spot in European competition.

    Conversely, it could provide a significant advantage for Arsenal as they pursue their first league title in two decades.

    Additionally, doubts surround defenders Malo Gusto and Ben Chilwell ahead of the upcoming derby at the Emirates, as confirmed by Pochettino.

    With 47 points from 31 matches, Chelsea currently occupy ninth place in the league standings, trailing seventh-placed Manchester United by three points but holding a game in hand.

  • “Maybe this group is not mature enough” – ‘Pained’ Pochettino questions after Sheffield draw

    “Maybe this group is not mature enough” – ‘Pained’ Pochettino questions after Sheffield draw

    Following a disappointing 2-2 draw with Sheffield United, Mauricio Pochettino has raised doubts about Chelsea’s ability to handle the demanding schedule of games every three days.

    Despite taking the lead twice against Sheffield United, Chelsea failed to secure a victory as they conceded late goals on both occasions.

    The draw was particularly frustrating for Pochettino, considering Sheffield United’s lowly position in the league and their previous heavy defeats this season, such as an 8-0 loss to Newcastle.

    Chelsea’s inability to finish games has been criticised by Pochettino, while Jamie Redknapp of Sky Sports asserted that the Blues “would be in a relegation struggle without Cole Palmer.”

    The former Manchester City player did not score against the Blades, but he did provide an assist, bringing his season total of Premier League goal contributions to 25.


    In a furious post-match interview, Pochettino told reporters: “At 52, you identify really quickly whether the team is ready to compete or not. Maybe this group is not mature enough to compete in games every three days. It’s a new team and we are still learning about their profiles. The process always takes time. It’s not a magic thing. It’s a project, a three- or five year process to build a team.

    “We are in the semi-finals of the FA Cup. We were not in a good position in the beginning, but that’s normal. We need to accept it now and work to try and fix our problems.”


    Chelsea are next in action on Monday, April 15, against Everton and will hope to put this torrid result behind them. They currently sit ninth in the Premier League, five points behind sixth-placed Manchester United.

  • Brighton announces a $154 million profit for 2022/2023 season

    Brighton announces a $154 million profit for 2022/2023 season

    Premier League club, Brighton, announced a remarkable after-tax profit of £122.8 million ($154.4 million) for the 2022-23 season.

    This substantial increase from the previous year’s profit of £24.1 million ($30.3 million) was attributed to the sale of key players like Alexis Mac Allister, Yves Bissouma, and Marc Cucurella, as well as compensation received for former manager Graham Potter, who joined Chelsea in September 2022.

    It’s worth noting that the reported figures do not include significant transfers such as Moises Caicedo and Robert Sanchez, as their moves to Chelsea were finalised after the reporting period.

    Caicedo’s transfer fetched up to $146 million, while Sanchez’s transfer reportedly brought in $32 million.

    Furthermore, Brighton’s financial success was bolstered by their achievement of their highest-ever Premier League finish, securing sixth place, and reaching the semifinals of the FA Cup.

    “We now have a very solid platform to continue to make significant progress on the pitch, by investing in our squad,” Brighton deputy chairman and chief executive Paul Barber said.

    Brighton reported a record turnover of £204.5 million ($257 million), indicating significant financial growth for the club.

    However, this success has attracted attention to Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi, who is being considered for several high-profile coaching positions expected to become available this summer.

    Vacancies at top clubs like Bayern Munich, Barcelona, and Liverpool, where Thomas Tuchel, Xavi Hernandez, and Jurgen Klopp are set to depart, have been linked to De Zerbi.

    Despite the speculation, De Zerbi stated last week that he intends to hold discussions with Brighton’s owners before making any decisions about his future.

    “It’s [future] not a problem, it’s a part of my work. At the moment, I want to be focused and to keep my eyes on the target we have. I have the contract at the moment. The focus is on the pitch,” he said.

    “I’m very relaxed. The problems are the injured players and the preparations for the next game. These are the problems not the contract or my future.”

    De Zerbi’s contract with Brighton expires in 2026.

  • Premier League names Kudus as Player of the Week

    Premier League names Kudus as Player of the Week

    Ghanaian footballer Mohammed Kudus has earned the title of Player of the Week in the Premier League by Whoscored.com.

    Playing for West Ham United during the weekend, the talented forward showcased his skills by scoring a remarkable goal.

    In the match against Newcastle United, Kudus also contributed an assist to Jarrod Bowen, maintaining his impressive performance in the English top-flight league.

    Following a thorough evaluation of all players who participated in Round 30 of the English Premier League, prominent football data platform WhoScored.com honored Mohammed Kudus with the Player of the Week accolade.

    Moreover, Kudus has secured a spot in the English Premier League Team of the Week for Round 30, standing out as the sole representative from West Ham United in this weekend’s lineup.

  • Man City’s 115 charges: New evidence emerge likely to affect treble winners

    Man City’s 115 charges: New evidence emerge likely to affect treble winners

    Man City’s upcoming trial concerning their 115 Financial Fair Play (FFP) charges may face implications due to new revelations involving the club’s sponsors.

    The 2023 Treble winners are accused of breaching FFP regulations on multiple occasions, with Etihad Airways reportedly playing a significant role in these breaches.

    According to German outlet Der Spiegel (via The Mirror), it is alleged that the Emirati airline only paid £8 million ($10.1m) of their £67.5m ($85.3m) obligation to City, with the remainder covered by disguised equity funding from the club’s owners.

    However, recent reports suggest that these claims may not hold true following Etihad Airways’ decision to go public by floating on the stock exchange.

    Sources in the Middle East, as cited in The Mirror, indicate that this move would necessitate an Initial Public Offering (IPO) for Etihad, requiring full disclosure of their financial records and corporate practices.

    Stock market experts believe that such transparency would not be offered if Etihad, and consequently City’s owners, had anything to conceal.

    In essence, if fraud had indeed occurred, as has been suggested, it is unlikely that Etihad would willingly subject itself to such scrutiny.


    A senior figure in the banking industry is quoted in The Mirror’s article as saying: “If it came to light that Etihad executives were indeed involved in manipulating the sponsorship deal with City, it could cause serious damage to the company’s reputation in the eyes of potential investors. Etihad would also have an obligation to disclose any ongoing investigation into the company’s accounts or conduct before the IPO was launched.

    “What the Premier League is alleging is extremely serious, not just in terms of football’s rules and regulations. The accusation is that City executives have colluded with officials from Etihad and have lied not only to the club’s independent auditors but to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

    “By extension, that also calls into question what information was disclosed by City’s owners to Silverlake before the American private equity firm bought a significant stake in the club in 2019. That’s why the Premier League’s allegations go way beyond accusing City of failing to meet Profit and Sustainability Rules.”


    The Premier League champions persist in asserting their innocence, believing that this evidence will significantly bolster their defense against the 115 charges leveled against them. The trial to investigate City’s alleged misconduct is tentatively scheduled for late autumn of this year, at the earliest.

  • Man City risk an ‘expulsion’ from Premier League if found guilty of “major” FFP breaches

    Man City risk an ‘expulsion’ from Premier League if found guilty of “major” FFP breaches

    Manchester City have been warned they could face “expulsion” from the Premier League if found guilty of breaching FFP rules.

    Premier League champions Manchester City and rival Chelsea have both been warned they could face being thrown out of the English top flight if found guilty of breaching Financial Fair Play rules.

    City is facing 115 charges and their case will be heard in the autumn. Chelsea may also find themselves in hot water due to their big-spending habits if major sales are not made this summer.

    The commission that docked Nottingham Forest four points for breaching Profit and Sustainability Rules this week made it clear in their 52-written reasons the type of sanctions available for more serious issues, as reported by The Sun.


    Robert Glancy KC, sports law specialist Mark Hovell and accounting expert Steve Holt wrote that available punishments “range from a warning through to expulsion from the Premier League.”.


    The trio went on to say: “Where a PSR breach is ‘minor’, then it will be for other commissions to determine if any point deduction is necessary, appropriate or proportionate.


    “But if the breach is properly described as ‘major’ then it may be the case that even a very severe sanction such as expulsion is more appropriate.”


    The news of deductions for Everton and Forest has already led some commentators to suggest City could be hit hard if found guilty. Former Liverpool defender and television pundit Jamie Carragher has claimed the Premier League champions could “end up in the National League North,” while boxer and Everton fan Tony Bellew has called the current situation “a disgrace” and has tipped the Cityzens to be relegated to the Conference.


    City manager Pep Guardiola has insisted his club is innocent of the charges and has vowed to stay on even if the club are sanctioned and relegated to League One.

    It has been suggested that City may also be stripped of their trophies if found guilty, but the Manchester outfit are likely to add more silverware before their case is heard as they remain in contention for the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League.

  • Premier League affirms its focus on implementing a new financial structure

    Premier League affirms its focus on implementing a new financial structure

    Premier League clubs agreed to prioritise their efforts around a new financial system, the league said on Monday, after no agreement was reached during the shareholders’ meeting.

    British media reported that the league failed to agree to a new financial settlement at the meeting on Monday as the planned vote was scrapped when it became clear it would not be supported by the required majority of 14 clubs.

    “At a Premier League shareholders’ meeting today, clubs agreed to prioritise the swift development and implementation of a new league-wide financial system,” the league said in a statement.

    “Alongside this, Premier League clubs also re-confirmed their commitment to securing a sustainably funded financial agreement with the EFL, subject to the new financial system being formally approved by clubs.”

    The British government issued a warning to English Premier League clubs, stating that they had to either agree to a new financial agreement with Football League (EFL) teams or face having one imposed on them by an independent Football Regulator.

    The Premier League said, “The league and clubs have reaffirmed their commitment to the wider game, with a distribution of £1.6 billion ($2.05 billion) to all levels of football over the current three-year cycle.”

  • Premier League clubs to adopt financial rule framework similar to UEFA’s

    Premier League clubs to adopt financial rule framework similar to UEFA’s

    Premier League clubs will convene on Thursday to deliberate on the potential abandonment of current profit and sustainability regulations in favour of adopting a financial framework similar to UEFA’s.

    Presently, clubs are required to limit losses to £105 million over a three-year period.

    However, executives anticipate a gradual transition to new regulations, with plans for a soft launch next season and full implementation by the 2025–26 campaign.

    It is widely believed that a significant majority of teams support the proposal to align with UEFA’s financial structure, with up to 19 clubs reportedly endorsing the transition.

    UEFA announced plans two years ago to replace the previous financial fair play system with a squad cost ratio approach, which correlates a club’s spending on areas like wages, transfer fees, and settlements with its turnover.

    Beginning next season, such expenditures must not exceed 90% of turnover, decreasing to 70% from 2025–26. The Premier League is expected to adopt a similar cap, with a suggested figure of 85%.

    Richard Masters, the Premier League’s chief executive, recently stated that clubs were being consulted on this potential shift.

    In a previous statement to the Culture, Media, and Sport Select Committee, he highlighted that over a third of the league’s clubs participate in continental competitions annually and must adhere to UEFA’s regulations.

    “Over time we have historically aligned with Uefa, because seven or eight of our clubs play in European competition,” he said. “We need to consider whether that is an appropriate move for us, how we do that and when.”

    Both Everton and Nottingham Forest have been found in breach of league regulations, resulting in penalties for each club. Initially, Everton faced a deduction of 10 points, later reduced to six following a successful appeal.

    Nottingham Forest’s hearing is set to begin next week, focusing on the £47.5m sale of Brennan Johnson to Tottenham outside the 2022–23 financial year.

    Despite declining lower bids from Brentford earlier in the transfer window, Forest opted for maximum profit.

    A verdict is expected in early April, with Forest likely to appeal any sanction. Everton may face further deductions after being referred to an independent disciplinary commission for a second charge related to the period up to 2022–23.

    Top-flight clubs anticipate a transitional phase next season with the introduction of new rules.

    There is optimism that such a system will allow for real-time financial monitoring and provide more flexibility for in-season penalties, reducing the likelihood of prolonged disputes. UEFA outlines predefined financial penalties and sporting measures for breaches of regulations.

  • Everton points deduction reduced to 6 points after appeal

    Everton points deduction reduced to 6 points after appeal

    Everton has climbed above Nottingham Forest and Brentford in the Premier League standings, reclaiming the 15th position after the Premier League’s appeals board reduced their 10-point deduction to six, thus restoring four points.

    The deduction was initially imposed due to Everton’s violation of spending regulations during the period ending in 2021–22, exceeding the permitted £105 million in losses by £19.5 million.

    The club argued that they had mitigating circumstances that warranted consideration.

    These included expenses deemed permissible, such as stadium costs, investment losses due to the Russian war, and pandemic-related setbacks.

    Following the appeal, Everton contended that the punishment was disproportionate and immediately lodged an appeal.

    A three-man panel presided over a three-day hearing in late January and earlier this month.

    During the hearing, Everton was not permitted to present new evidence but made several legal arguments, led by prominent lawyer Laurence Rabinowitz KC.

    As a result of the appeal, the original 10-point penalty for financial rule breaches has been reduced to six points.

    Everton say they are ’satisfied’ with the outcome and a club statement read: ‘
    While the club is still digesting the Appeal Board’s decision, we are satisfied our appeal has resulted in a reduction in the points sanction.

    ‘Everton can confirm that an Appeal Board has concluded that the points deduction imposed by an independent Premier League Commission in November will be reduced from 10 points to six points, with immediate effect.
    ‘While the club is still digesting the Appeal Board’s decision, we are satisfied our appeal has resulted in a reduction in the points sanction.

    ‘We understand the Appeal Board considered the 10-point deduction originally imposed to be inappropriate when assessed against the available benchmarks of which the Club made the Commission aware, including the position under the relevant EFL regulations, and the 9-point deduction that is imposed under the Premier League’s own rules in the event of insolvency.


    ‘The Club is also particularly pleased with the Appeal Board’s decision to overturn the original Commission’s finding that the Club failed to act in utmost good faith. That decision, along with reducing the points deduction, was an incredibly important point of principle for the Club on appeal. The Club, therefore, feels vindicated in pursuing its appeal.


    ‘Notwithstanding the Appeal Board’s decision, and the positive outcome, the Club remains fully committed to cooperating with the Premier League in respect of the ongoing proceedings brought for the accounting period ending in June 2023.


    ‘The Club is still considering the wider implications of the decision and will make no further comment at this time other than to place on record its thanks to our Fan Advisory Board and other fan groups throughout this process, and to all Evertonians for their ongoing support and patience.’


    The Toffees made their the appeal hearing before an independent commission earlier this month after the club described the initial 10-point penalty as ‘wholly disproportionate’.


    The outcome of the appeal may also have a direct impact on a second PSR complaint the club is facing, which was laid on January 15. That complaint covers an assessment period that ends with the 2022-23 season.


    Under a new expedited process to deal with PSR breaches that was agreed upon by top-flight clubs last summer, an independent commission hearing into the second PSR complaint must conclude no later than 12 weeks after the complaint was laid, which would be early April.

  • Brighton officially announces signing of Ghanaian winger Ibrahim Osman

    Brighton officially announces signing of Ghanaian winger Ibrahim Osman

    Brighton and Hove Albion, a Premier League club, have revealed the acquisition of Ghanaian winger Ibrahim Osman.

    The announcement came on Saturday, February 10, 2024, confirming that Brighton has secured the services of the FC Nordsjaelland winger for a fee of £16 million.

    Despite the signing, the 19-year-old winger will remain with FC Nordsjaelland for the remainder of the 2023–2024 season before officially joining Brighton in the summer.

    Technical director David Weir said he was “a young and exciting prospect.”

    He added, “For now, it’s important that we give him the space to focus on Nordsjalland, where he is enjoying a good season.” Osman has scored four goals and five assists for his club in 29 appearances this season.

    Ibrahim Osman was strongly linked with West Ham and was expected to join them. However, the deal fell through because West Ham was unwilling to meet the asking price.

  • Thomas Partey’s time at Arsenal has come to an end – Reports

    Thomas Partey’s time at Arsenal has come to an end – Reports

    Black Stars midfielder Thomas Partey is reportedly set to conclude his tenure at Arsenal, according to a report by British journalist Ryan Taylor.

    The Ghanaian is expected to leave the Gunners at the end of the current season, primarily attributed to his persistent injuries and resulting unavailability.

    Thomas Partey, who became the most expensive Ghanaian footballer after joining Arsenal in the summer of 2020 for a transfer fee of £45 million, has faced challenges with injuries throughout his time at the club.

    These persistent injuries have limited his playing time for Arsenal below the anticipated level.

    In the ongoing 2023–2024 Premier League season, Partey has not featured for Arsenal since contributing to the match-winning goal against Manchester City on October 8, 2023.

    Having played just four games for Arsenal in this season, his return to action remains uncertain after suffering another setback, as confirmed by Mikel Arteta in January 2024.

  • Arsenal make impressive Premier League return; thump Crystal Palace by 5 goals to nil

    Arsenal make impressive Premier League return; thump Crystal Palace by 5 goals to nil

    Arsenal revived their Premier League title aspirations with a commanding victory over struggling Crystal Palace at Emirates Stadium.

    Having faced a dip in form with three losses in their last five Premier League matches towards the end of the previous year, Arsenal, under the management of Mikel Arteta, utilized a week-long winter break in Dubai to regroup.

    The Gunners demonstrated their resurgence with a convincing 5-0 win, featuring a header from Gabriel, an own goal by Crystal Palace’s Dean Henderson, a composed finish by Leandro Trossard, and two late strikes by Gabriel Martinelli.

    Gabriel’s opening goal in the 11th minute and Henderson’s own goal both resulted from corners. Trossard added to Arsenal’s lead in the second half, calmly finishing a one-on-one opportunity.

    Crystal Palace struggled to mount a response, and in injury time, Martinelli sealed the emphatic win with two well-placed shots into the far corner.

    This victory propelled Arsenal to third place in the Premier League standings, trailing leaders Liverpool by two points but having played one more game than Jurgen Klopp’s side. Crystal Palace, on the other hand, remained in 14th place.