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Arsenal Tactical Masterclass: Mikel Arteta Says 'I Wanted to Try It' After Unlocking New Role for Bukayo Saka in FA Cup Rout of Wigan Athletic

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‎Mikel Arteta chose to use Bukayo Saka in a more central attacking position during Arsenal’s FA Cup fourth-round clash with Wigan on Sunday, and the tactical move helped his side secure a commanding 4-0 victory. The Arsenal manager later explained that the positional switch was something he had been eager to test and hinted it may become a more frequent option going forward. ‎ ‎Arsenal delivered a dominant FA Cup performance against Wigan as Mikel Arteta tested Bukayo Saka in a central role. The tactical switch could influence future matches this season. ‎Getty Images Sport (2) ‎ ‎Arsenal booked their place in the fifth round of the FA Cup with an impressive performance. Although Saka was initially named among the substitutes, he was drafted into the starting lineup after Riccardo Calafiori suffered an injury during the warm-up. Instead of playing Saka in his usual wide role, Arteta positioned him as a No. 8. The change worked well as Arsenal quickly overwhelmed Wigan, scor...

Alan Shearer Criticizes Eberechi Eze Display as Arsenal Drop Points to Brentford

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‎Premier League icon Alan Shearer has suggested that Arsenal attacker Eberechi Eze appeared disoriented during the 1-1 stalemate against Brentford, a result that slowed Mikel Arteta’s team in the title chase. Meanwhile, Manchester City have increased pressure after reducing Arsenal’s lead at the summit to four points. ‎ ‎Alan Shearer criticizes Eberechi Eze’s performance in Arsenal’s draw with Brentford while Manchester City close the Premier League title gap. Full match analysis, squad concerns, and title race insight. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Eze had made a bright start to life at Arsenal, highlighted by a hat-trick performance against Tottenham Hotspur in a north London derby victory. Despite that explosive beginning, the England international — linked to the England national football team — has struggled for consistency at the Emirates. The Brentford match marked his first league start since December 13. ‎ ‎His outing lasted just 45 minutes, with the game still score...

Arsenal Injury Blow: Kai Havertz Set to Miss Key Fixtures Including Tottenham Clash

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‎Arsenal attacker Kai Havertz is preparing for another period out of action after suffering a new injury. The German international has already missed a large portion of the 2025-26 campaign due to several fitness setbacks, and he is now expected to be unavailable for a number of upcoming games. Among the matches he is likely to miss is next weekend’s north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur. ‎ ‎Arsenal forward Kai Havertz faces another injury setback, with reports suggesting he will miss multiple matches including the upcoming north London derby against Tottenham. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Havertz’s season has already been heavily interrupted. Toward the end of the 2024-25 season, he was recovering from a hamstring problem that kept him out for the final three months. Shortly after the start of the 2025-26 season, he then sustained a knee injury just one week in, which kept him sidelined for around four-and-a-half months before he returned during the first half of Jan...

Arteta Reacts as Tottenham Sack Thomas Frank Amid Relegation Fears

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‎Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has shown support for Thomas Frank following his dismissal by north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday. Spurs are currently only five points above the Premier League relegation places after failing to secure a single domestic victory in 2026, even though they managed to finish fourth during the Champions League league phase. ‎ ‎Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta shares sympathy for Thomas Frank after Tottenham sack him following poor results, with Spurs sitting just five points above the Premier League relegation zone. ‎Getty (2) ‎ ‎Frank’s departure comes after what has been described statistically as the worst managerial record ever recorded by a Premier League big-six club. Tottenham now face genuine danger of being pulled into a relegation battle after going eight league fixtures without registering a win. The club officially confirmed Frank’s dismissal on Wednesday. ‎ ‎In an official statement, Tottenham said they had decided to change th...

‎Wrexham Transfer Shock? Wes Brown Backs Sterling Move and Suggests John Stones Could Follow

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‎Raheem Sterling has been advised to explore a dramatic transfer to Wrexham as a way to reignite his enthusiasm for football. Former Manchester United defender Wes Brown believes the Hollywood-supported Welsh club could provide the perfect solution for the winger’s stalled momentum. Brown also hinted that Wrexham might attempt an ambitious move for Sterling’s ex-Manchester City teammate John Stones, who he thinks could influence games at a lower level much like Granit Xhaka has done. ‎ ‎Ex-Man United star Wes Brown says Wrexham could help Raheem Sterling rediscover football joy, while John Stones is tipped as a future lower-league game controller like Granit Xhaka. ‎Getty (2) ‎ ‎Previously considered one of England’s most dangerous attackers, Sterling now faces an uncertain next step. Following his departure from Chelsea and ongoing search for a new club, Brown proposed a surprising idea — relocating to Wrexham’s Racecourse Ground in a move that would stun the football worl...

‎Mikel Merino Injury Blow Leaves Arsenal Considering Emergency Transfer Cover

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‎Arsenal’s season has taken another hit after it emerged that midfielder Mikel Merino is likely to be sidelined for a prolonged period due to a foot injury. The Spaniard suffered the problem late in last weekend’s loss to Manchester United and is now scheduled to undergo surgery, putting the remainder of his campaign in serious doubt. ‎ Mikel Merino is expected to miss an extended period after a foot injury, with Arsenal confirming surgery and weighing up short-term transfer solutions. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎The 29-year-old was missing from the matchday squad as Arsenal swept aside Leeds United 4-0 in the Premier League on Saturday. Following that game, Mikel Arteta confirmed that Merino’s absence was down to a foot issue rather than selection. ‎ ‎On Sunday, Arsenal issued an official update confirming that Merino has sustained a bone injury and will require an operation in the coming days. The club stated that he will be unavailable for an “extended period,” although ...

Arsenal Ratings vs Leeds: Madueke Masterclass Fuels Statement 4-0 Victory

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‎Arsenal delivered a resounding response to recent criticism by thrashing Leeds United 4-0, ending a run of three Premier League matches without a victory. The result sends Mikel Arteta’s side seven points clear of Manchester City at the top of the table and reasserts their title credentials. ‎ ‎ Arsenal back on track in style.  Madueke dazzles after late inclusion as the Gunners hammer Leeds 4-0 and move 7 points clear at the top of the Premier League. Title statement made. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎Pre-match preparations were disrupted when Bukayo Saka was ruled out during the warm-up, forcing a late change. Noni Madueke was called upon and wasted no time in making his presence felt, playing a pivotal role as Arsenal gradually took control. ‎ ‎Following a cautious opening, Madueke began to exploit space down the right wing. His quality delivery found Martin Zubimendi, who nodded home to break the deadlock. The winger then caused further chaos with a fierce corner t...

‎Everything to know about Kepa Arrizabalaga's transfer to Arsenal

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‎Arsenal have officially completed the signing of Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga by activating the £5 million release clause in his contract. This move marks a significant transfer, with Kepa joining the Gunners on a three-year deal after spending last season on loan at Bournemouth. ‎ Arsenal complete the £5m signing of Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga on a three-year deal. The experienced keeper joins to challenge David Raya. ‎Getty Images (2) ‎ ‎Kepa, 30, originally joined Chelsea in 2018 for a world-record fee of £71.8 million for a goalkeeper from Athletic Club. However, after several mixed seasons and a loan spell at Bournemouth where he was the first-choice goalkeeper, he has now opted for a fresh start at Arsenal. The Gunners view Kepa as experienced cover and healthy competition for their current international goalkeeper David Raya. ‎ ‎During his loan spell, Kepa made 35 Premier League starts for Bournemouth, contributing significantly to the club’s best-e...

Arteta urges 'solutions, not problems' as Arsenal plans trophy push in 2025 season review

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has set a determined tone ahead of the club's end-of-season performance review, insisting that "solutions, not problems" must drive the planning process as the Gunners seek to end their long-standing trophy drought in the 2024/25 campaign. ‎ Arteta demands 'solutions, not problems' as Arsenal prepare trophy-focused season review. ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎With Arsenal poised to finish third in the Premier League for the third consecutive year, the gap to the title remains a key concern for the club hierarchy. Arteta, who has guided the team to consistent Champions League qualification but fallen short in silverware, is expected to spearhead a detailed review with senior staff next week. ‎ ‎“Our performance review goes every two months,” said Arteta during a press briefing. “That is the way we do it. Then we will see next week here with everybody that is involved. We will do everything that we planned and what actually happened.” ‎ ‎...

‎Arsenal to sack their manager? Arteta under fire after latest European failure

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‎Arsenal’s hopes for silverware this season were shattered once again as Mikel Arteta’s men fell to Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals. The 2-1 loss in Paris—courtesy of goals from Fabian Ruiz and Achraf Hakimi—sealed a 3-1 aggregate defeat and confirmed yet another trophyless campaign for the Gunners, despite a season filled with promise. ‎ Arsenal fans call for Arteta's sacking after UCL heartbreak vs PSG. ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎The aftermath has been unforgiving. ‎ ‎Disappointed and frustrated, a vocal section of Arsenal fans has taken to social media with a clear message: the time has come for Arteta to go. The hashtag #ArtetaOut began trending within hours of the final whistle, echoing growing concerns over the manager’s tactical choices and squad management. ‎ ‎“Arteta failed to sign a centre-forward in January—here are the outcomes,” lamented one fan on X. “Trophyless again. I’m so disappointed in my club. Sorry but SACK ARTETA. Enough ...

‎Arsenal accelerate Saliba contract talks amid Real Madrid transfer interest

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‎Arsenal have launched urgent contract negotiations with French star William Saliba, reacting swiftly to Real Madrid’s long-term interest in the defender. According to fresh reports from L'Équipe, the Spanish giants are laying early groundwork to sign Saliba—either by lowering his fee over time or acquiring him on a free transfer in 2027. The move echoes Real Madrid's cautious but strategic approach to major signings, similar to their previous pursuit of Kylian Mbappe. ‎ ‎' William Saliba. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎New Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta, recently appointed to lead the Gunners’ footballing strategy, is determined not to repeat Paris Saint-Germain’s high-profile mistake with Mbappe, who left for free. Berta has already opened extension talks with Saliba, aiming to secure the 23-year-old’s long-term future well ahead of his contract expiry. ‎ ‎Real Madrid's admiration for Saliba stems from a combination of current squad vulnerabilities ...

‎Real Madrid target Arsenal's William Saliba for summer defensive rebuild

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‎Real Madrid have identified Arsenal defender William Saliba as their top transfer target to anchor a summer defensive overhaul, according to a report from Spanish outlet Marca. The 23-year-old French international is said to be the club’s preferred solution to reinforce a backline that has struggled in key moments this season, particularly during their Champions League quarter-final exit at the hands of Arsenal. ‎ ‎Real Madrid plot Summer rebuild with Arsenal's William Saliba at the centre. ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎Los Blancos were eliminated from Europe’s elite competition after conceding five goals across two legs against the North London side. That performance reportedly intensified internal discussions over the need to rejuvenate a once-impervious defence. Saliba, who has grown into one of the world’s premier centre-backs under Mikel Arteta, has long been admired by Real’s chief scout Juni Calafat, who views him as an ideal long-term leader in defence. ‎ ‎Despite Saliba si...

Arsenal and Manchester United given transfer boost in pursuits of Benjamin Sesko and Xavi Simons

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‎Arsenal and Manchester United have received encouraging developments in their summer transfer pursuits of Benjamin Sesko and Xavi Simons, with RB Leipzig reportedly ready to sanction the sales of both players to meet financial targets. ‎ ‎Arsenal and Manchester United receive transfer boost in race for RB Leipzig duo Sesko and Simons. ‎Getty Images (2) ‎ ‎According to German outlet Bild, RB Leipzig are under pressure to raise funds and have identified Sesko and Simons as high-value assets who could help the club reach their target of €100 million (£85m/$114m) in player sales. Both Premier League giants are said to be keen on securing deals for the two rising stars, with United showing particular interest in 22-year-old Dutch midfielder Simons, while both clubs are monitoring the availability of 21-year-old Slovenian striker Sesko. ‎ ‎Leipzig had previously struck a gentleman’s agreement with Simons, who joined permanently from Paris Saint-Germain in January, allowing him t...

The Premier League's 30 highest-paid players in 2024/25

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The Premier League remains the epicentre of global football wealth, where astronomical transfer fees and wages have become the norm. England’s top flight dwarfs its European rivals in spending power, attracting elite talent from around the globe — at a hefty price. ' Kevin De Bruyne ' Ft. ' Manchester City. ' Getty Images  With summer spending routinely eclipsing £1 billion, salaries for star players continue to soar. As wage demands rise in tandem with player valuations, we delve into the current list of the Premier League’s highest earners, based on figures from Capology. 1 . Erling Haaland – Manchester City (£500,000 per week) Erling Haaland commands the Premier League’s largest weekly salary. Since his 2022 arrival, he has shattered scoring records and justified City’s financial investment. After signing a revised deal, the Norwegian striker now earns £500,000 per week — reflecting his unrivalled impact and consistent goal-scoring feats. 2. Kevin De Bruy...

Arsenal's historic 3-0 victory over Real Madrid: Arteta's tactical masterclass at the Emirates

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‎Arsenal have taken a giant step toward the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League, pulling off what could arguably be the most remarkable result in the history of the Emirates Stadium. On Tuesday night, the Gunners delivered a nearly flawless performance, thrashing holders Real Madrid 3-0 in a thrilling encounter that leaves Mikel Arteta’s men on the cusp of European glory. ' Arsenal 's ' Rice. ' Getty Images  ‎ ‎A Fast-Paced First Half with Early Drama ‎ ‎The match started at a frenetic pace, with both sides displaying their attacking intent early on. Arsenal almost found themselves ahead inside the opening five minutes when Antonio Rudiger’s clearance deflected off Eduardo Camavinga and narrowly missed Thibaut Courtois’ post. The Gunners were left wondering if that was a missed opportunity as a VAR review also cleared a possible handball by Raul Asencio in the penalty area. ‎ ‎Real Madrid responded with their own chances. Vinicius Junior flashed a shot ...

‎Mbappe and Bellingham at Arsenal? How Gunners nearly signed Real Madrid superstars

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‎Arsenal’s pursuit of European glory faces an uphill battle as they prepare for a high-stakes Champions League quarter-final clash with the mighty Real Madrid. The Spanish side, boasting a squad brimming with talent, is led by two of the world’s most sought-after players—Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham. But in an alternate timeline, Arsenal could have been benefitting from their prowess, as both players came agonizingly close to joining the Gunners when they were still teenagers. ‎ ‎Real Madrid stars ' Bellingham and Mbappe. ' ‎Getty Images ‎ ‎This near-miss scenario is a reflection of how fine margins in the transfer market can shape a club's destiny. Arsenal’s loss has certainly been Real Madrid’s gain, and these failed deals continue to haunt the club’s European ambitions. ‎ ‎The Bellingham Saga: A £500k Deal That Fell Through ‎ ‎Jude Bellingham’s rise has been nothing short of spectacular. At just 21 years old, he’s already cemented himself as one of the...

Sporting CP lower Viktor Gyokeres' asking price, but Al-Qadsiyah's bid could disrupt Man United and Arsenal's plans

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‎Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres, a standout performer for Sporting CP this season, has attracted considerable interest from top European clubs, including Arsenal and Manchester United. The forward’s impressive form has made him one of the most sought-after players ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window. However, his potential move has been delayed previously due to Sporting's high asking price. ‎ ' Viktor Gyokeres. ' ‎Getty Images  ‎ ‎Recent reports indicate that the Portuguese club has slashed their asking price for Gyokeres, significantly altering the landscape for potential suitors. According to The Sun, Sporting CP is now willing to accept a transfer fee between £55 million ($70.7 million) and £70 million ($90 million), a reduction from the inflated figure discussed in January. While still a hefty sum, this revised price tag could make the striker a more viable option for both Arsenal and Manchester United, who have been tracking him for several month...

Arsenal eye Viktor Gyokeres as Mikel Arteta seeks new striker

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‎Arsenal are reportedly keen on signing Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP in the upcoming summer transfer window. As Mikel Arteta searches for a new striker, Gyokeres has become a top target, with the club looking to reinforce its attacking options. ‎ ‎' Viktor Gyoekeres. ' ‎Getty Images Sport  ‎ ‎According to The Athletic, Arsenal's interest in the 25-year-old forward is growing, with Andrea Berti, the club's new sporting director, said to be a strong admirer of the Swedish striker. Gyokeres, who is proving to be an increasingly cost-effective option, could provide a more affordable alternative to high-profile targets like Alexander Isak of Newcastle United. Additionally, RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, another option on Arsenal’s radar, has attracted significant attention from various suitors, making a move for him more complicated. ‎ ‎Gyokeres’ impressive form at Sporting CP has not gone unnoticed. In just 92 appearances, the striker has scored an impressive ...

Transfer war: Manchester United and Arsenal scout two Olympiacos stars

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‎Premier League clubs, notably Manchester United and Arsenal, have reportedly been monitoring two promising talents from Olympiacos, Christos Mouzakitis and Charalampos Kostoulas, over the past few months. Both players are widely regarded as key figures in Greece's emerging golden generation of footballers. Manchester United and Arsenal scout Olympiacos stars Christos Mouzakitis and Charalampos Kostoulas. Getty Images (2) ‎ ‎Mouzakitis, a left-footed central midfielder, made history in November by becoming the youngest-ever debutant for Greece in a senior international match against Finland. Meanwhile, Kostoulas, primarily a number nine or second striker, has garnered significant attention from several top clubs. ‎ ‎' Christos Mouzakitis. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎Despite this interest, Olympiacos sporting director Darko Kovacevic has confirmed that Kostoulas will not be leaving the club anytime soon. He stated, "There is growing interest in ...

UEFA investigates Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr, and others for alleged indecent conduct ahead of Arsenal clash

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‎UEFA has initiated an investigation into Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr, Antonio Rudiger, and Dani Ceballos following their involvement in controversial incidents during Real Madrid’s dramatic penalty shootout victory over Atletico Madrid in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 on March 12, 2025. ‎ ' Kylian Mbappe ' and ' Vinicius Jr. ' ‎Getty Images Sport ‎ ‎The investigation was prompted by reports of alleged "indecent conduct" by the players, with key incidents under scrutiny. One of the most notable involves Antonio Rudiger, who was captured on camera making a throat-slitting gesture, apparently directed at Atletico Madrid fans. Meanwhile, social media footage appears to show Mbappe making a crotch-grabbing gesture during post-match celebrations. ‎ ‎As part of the disciplinary process, UEFA has appointed an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector to investigate the conduct of these players. If the investigation concludes with a guilty verdict, the invo...